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Veteran actor Alfred Molina may be turning 73 this weekend, but his latest performance in the Netflix series The Boroughs proves that he remains one of Hollywood’s most compelling screen presences. The actor recently opened up about his starring role in the supernatural drama, his experience working with the Duffer Brothers, and the lasting legacy of Doctor Octopus from Spider Man 2 and Spider Man No Way Home.
Created by Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews and executive produced by Matt Duffer and Ross Duffer, “The Boroughs” follows Sam Cooper, a retired engineer played by Molina who moves into a mysterious senior living community after the death of his wife. What begins as a quiet adjustment to retirement quickly spirals into a terrifying paranormal mystery involving monsters, disappearances, and a dark secret hidden beneath the community.
Molina revealed that he was immediately intrigued when Netflix first approached him about the long form television project. Although he joked about never having been involved in a television show that lasted more than one season, he admitted that the scripts quickly convinced him to join. He also credited his wife, writer Jennifer Lee, for helping him recognize the strength of the writing and structure behind the series.
The actor praised the involvement of the Duffer Brothers, whose work on Stranger Things helped give the project credibility and excitement. Molina explained that the creators understand the supernatural adventure genre deeply and have successfully created stories that appeal across generations. According to him, “The Boroughs” carries the same timeless spirit seen in films such as E T the Extra Terrestrial and The Goonies.
One of the biggest strengths of the series is its veteran ensemble cast, which includes Geena Davis, Bill Pullman, Alfre Woodard, Clarke Peters and Denis O Hare. Molina described the atmosphere on set as supportive and deeply connected, noting that many of the actors had worked together previously over the decades. He contrasted this with modern film sets where younger actors often spend breaks on their phones rather than interacting with one another.
The emotional finale of “The Boroughs” sees Sam and his friends uncover the horrifying truth behind the community. The owners have been draining life from elderly residents in order to achieve immortality through the power of a magical figure known as Mother. In the final confrontation, Sam and his allies return Mother to the desert cave where her powers originated, destroying the curse in the process. Molina praised the production design team for constructing detailed practical cave sets that made the climactic scenes feel immersive and authentic.
Despite the apparent ending, the series closes with hints that darker forces may still remain within The Boroughs. Molina admitted that while Netflix has not officially confirmed a second season, the writers originally envisioned the story spanning three seasons. He said he would gladly continue playing Sam Cooper if given the opportunity.
The conversation also turned toward Molina’s famous portrayal of Doctor Octopus. Reflecting on his return in “Spider Man No Way Home,” the actor shared how surprised he was to reprise the role nearly 17 years after “Spider Man 2.” He recalled joking about his age and appearance before returning, only for filmmakers to assure him that technology could handle the differences. Even so, Molina believes Doctor Octopus already holds a special place among Marvel’s greatest villains. Still, he admitted that if Marvel asked him to return once more, he would happily say yes.
Molina also spoke humorously about recently voicing Marcellus the octopus in Remarkably Bright Creatures. Laughing at the coincidence of playing both Doc Ock and an actual octopus, he joked that perhaps “The Boroughs” should introduce a giant octopus aquarium in a future season.
With its blend of horror, mystery and emotional storytelling, “The Boroughs” has already captured attention on Netflix, and Alfred Molina’s performance stands at the center of it all. Even after decades in Hollywood, the celebrated actor continues to prove why audiences remain fascinated by his work both in dramatic storytelling and blockbuster franchises.
