Michaela Coel was notably absent in the "USS Callister" sequel episode in the recently premiered season 7 of Black Mirror, and now we finally know why she didn't reprise her role.
The hit Netflix anthology series returned today with a new batch of stories, including the highly anticipated follow-up to one of its most popular episodes from a past season.
Black Mirror Showrunner Explains Michaela Coel's Absence in USS Callister Sequel
In a recent interview, Black Mirror showrunner Charlie Brooker explained why Coel didn't reprise her role in the "USS Callister" sequel episode in season 7.
He cited scheduling conflicts as the reason why she did not return. They decided to explain her character's absence in the dialogue.
"We do tell you exactly where she is. Unfortunately, she died in a mission. It’s quite quick. [One character] says, 'Shania was blasted apart right in front of me two weeks ago and I can still smell her f---ing blood,'" Brooker said.
"As you can imagine, it's a gargantuan feat to get everyone’s schedule to align. We couldn't get everyone’s schedules to align. I've always been a fan. I think she’s wonderful. We’ve had her in two episodes before, it would be greedy to get her back for a third!"
Despite Coel's absence, Brooker praised the "amazing" ensemble that returned in the sequel episode.
What to Expect in Black Mirror Season 7
Black Mirror season 7 premiered today on Netflix with six new episodes, including a sequel to "USS Callister."
In "USS Callister: Into Infinity," Robert Daly is dead, but the crew of the USS Callister — led by Captain Nanette Cole — find that their problems are just beginning.
The cast includes Cristin Milioti as Nanette, Jimmi Simpson as Walton, Billy Magnussen as Karl, Milanka Brooks as Elena Tulaska, Osy Ikhile as Nate Packer, and Paul G. Raymond as Kabir Dudani.
Other episodes are "Eulogy," "Plaything," "Hotel Reverie," "Common People," and "Bête Noire" with star-studded cast including the likes of Paul Giamatti, Chris O'Dowd, Rashida Jones, Tracee Ellis Ross, Emma Corrin, Issa Rae, Awkwafina, Peter Capaldi, and Will Poulter.
What do you think of the explanation for Coel's absence? Let us know in the comments!
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