"The Sympathizer: Transformations, Adaptations, and Multiple Roles in the HBO Series"

Robert Downey Jr. takes on four different American characters in the upcoming HBO series The Sympathizer, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Viet Thanh Nguyen. The decision to have Downey play multiple roles was made to represent different facets of America, with the show's co-showrunners and executive producers emphasizing the importance of portraying the characters as connected and not just as a gimmick. Downey's improvisation skills and ability to bring fun and life to the set were also highlighted by the cast and crew. The series, which also stars Sandra Oh, premieres on HBO and Max this Sunday.