‘Task’ Star Fabien Frankel on Grasso’s Catholic Guilt, Mourning the Death of [SPOILER] and His Showdown With Tom

SPOILER ALERT: This article includes spoilers from Episode 6 of HBO’s “Task,” currently available on HBO Max.

In HBO’s “Task,” Delaware County detective Anthony Grasso (Fabien Frankel) stands out as a mysterious figure, consistently poised to assist Tom Brandis (Mark Ruffalo) in the search for a missing child in a suburban area of Philadelphia. However, throughout the series, subtle indications have emerged, suggesting that someone within the close-knit FBI task force is leaking information to the motorcycle gang known as the Dark Hearts, leading Tom to question who among his trusted colleagues could be the traitor.

In Episode 5, it is revealed that Grasso has been disclosing sensitive information to Jayson (Sam Keeley), one of the leaders of the Dark Hearts, specifically regarding the location of Cliff Broward (Raúl Castillo). In a shocking twist, Grasso exposes that Sam (Ben Doherty) is alive and has been hiding with Robbie Prendergrast (Tom Pelphrey) after the tragic deaths of Sam’s parents during a drug-related incident.

Episode 6 opens with the FBI and Dark Hearts converging on Robbie in a secluded woodland area, bringing Grasso’s efforts to a abrupt standstill when the Dark Hearts kill Lizzie (Alison Oliver), his closest ally within the task force, by running her over. Grasso’s struggle with the aftermath of Lizzie’s tragic death intensifies as Tom confronts him about his past involvement with the ill-famed motorcycle gang.

Variety had the opportunity to speak with Frankel about the intense confrontation between Grasso and Tom, the question of whether Grasso had been using Lizzie throughout the series, and the theme of Catholic guilt that permeates the narrative.

In Episode 6, Grasso and Lizzie find themselves caught in a crossfire with the Dark Hearts in the woods. When one of the gang members aims at Lizzie, Grasso fires a gun close to her ear, plunging her world into silence. Was he fully aware of Lizzie’s condition in that tense moment?

He understands that failing to navigate this situation could lead to severe consequences for him. However, it’s only when he sees Lizzie injured near her ear that he realizes [his action] could cost the lives of those he truly cares about.

Grasso orders Perry (Jamie McShane) and Jayson to escape, which ultimately results in Lizzie being run over on the bridge. After everything Grasso experienced with the Dark Hearts, is Lizzie’s death the moment he fully regrets his past with them, or was there an earlier turning point?

Grasso has always harbored a sense of regret about his involvement with the Dark Hearts. He grapples with a Catholic guilt complex, feeling as if he must repent for his misdeeds. Yet, throughout the first three episodes, he remains unaware that the situation will escalate to such a tragic end. Lizzie’s death becomes the pivotal moment that brings his worst fears to fruition.

Throughout the episode, Grasso faces pressure from everyone to move on from Lizzie’s death as the task force house undergoes scrutiny. His reflections reveal the significant impact she made on his life.

He forms a deep connection with her. Interestingly, I’ve been asked in interviews whether he was using her for his own plans. I firmly believe he was not. Both characters genuinely liked each other and built a real friendship. Grasso refrained from advancing their relationship due to his fears about infidelity, influenced by his Catholic upbringing and his connection with the Dark Hearts. He sincerely cares about Lizzie.

It’s evident that Grasso is not using Lizzie, especially during a notable scene in Episode 2 where he encourages others in a bar to cheer for her.

I’m pleased you didn’t perceive it that way, as he simply aims to uplift her spirits! He recognizes that she’s somewhat lost within the police force, and he feels compassion for her—not a pity for her entire situation, but rather in terms of her role as an officer.

In the climactic moments of this episode, Tom discusses Grasso’s past grievances from his former job and acknowledges his connection to the Dark Hearts. Their dialogue touches on prior sins, including a poignant line about “God not forgetting,” tied to Tom’s past as a priest. If Grasso had bared his soul to Tom at that moment, would he have found forgiveness?

That’s a thought-provoking question. The central theme of their discussion revolves around who offers forgiveness. I might not be devout, but I believe in God, and I’m uncertain about my stance on the religious spectrum. However, I firmly think that forgiveness must come from within. If that internal forgiveness connects to God, it’s unclear if Tom’s absolution would actually give Grasso peace. Brad emphasized this point, as he wrestled with Catholic guilt during his own upbringing. Many Catholics grow up bearing this overwhelming sense of guilt in the eyes of God.

For Grasso, it’s doubtful that his guilt would ever be fully alleviated. His desire to confess stems from wanting to lighten that burden. Perhaps he would find it easier to forgive himself through that confession.

How does the final comment from Tom resonate with Grasso after he declines to confess about sharing information with the Dark Hearts?

We discussed this scene and that line extensively during filming. There was an initial version where Tom left with a remark indicating he would pursue Grasso, to which Grasso responded, “So come.” This framing underscores Grasso’s final defiance. It becomes a true stand, despite the subconscious realization that he may already be contemplating surrendering at that juncture.

Last year, you co-founded a production company named “Marcel Monique Pictures” while filming “Task.” What lessons did you gain from collaborating with Brad Ingelsby and the series’ team that you plan to apply to future projects?

What stands out about Brad is his exceptional ability to surround himself with kind-hearted individuals. His choices consistently prioritize who will enhance the work experience over simply selecting the most qualified. I realized that this is the ideal approach to filmmaking. Collaborate with those you care for, engage your friends and family, and take chances on people who inspire you, as they are likely to invest their utmost effort for you.

This interview has been edited and condensed.