Suits LA: Stephen Amell discusses big shift in playing Ted Black and the character's hidden side

Stephen Amell has stepped into the role of Ted Black, a former federal prosecutor from New York who’s now an entertainment lawyer representing A-list clients in Los Angeles. This transition is central to the upcoming show Suits LA. In a recent interview, Amell revealed insights about Ted’s hidden struggles and what makes the character so intriguing.

Ted Black used to be a federal prosecutor in New York, but life has taken him to sunny Los Angeles. Now, he’s trying to save his law firm, which caters to some big-name celebrities. The stakes are high, and Black is under pressure to keep his firm afloat.

Amell described how Ted is enjoying this new life in Los Angeles, even mentioning how wearing tailored suits makes him feel like the “coolest guy in the room.” However, despite his polished appearance, Ted’s life is far from perfect.

Amell explained that Ted is a complicated character. He pretends to be someone else in front of his colleagues, Stuart Lane (played by Josh McDermitt), Rick Dodson (Bryan Greenberg), and Erica Rollins (Lex Scott Davis), he hides his true self.

“Behind closed doors, he’s a scared little boy, and nobody — I mean nobody— knows it,”

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Ted Black’s struggles behind the scenes

Living this double life is taking its toll on Ted. According to Amell, Ted’s inability to be comfortable in his own skin is unsustainable. How long can someone keep pretending before it all comes crashing down?

Amell noted that focusing on lawyers instead of agents or investment bankers brings a fresh dynamic to Suits LA. Just as the original Suits was made better by centering on legal battles, this new series benefits from showcasing entertainment law. It’s a world filled with glamour but also cutthroat competition and hidden secrets.

Ted’s hidden fears make him relatable. Many people feel like they have to wear a mask to get through life. This theme of vulnerability could be one of the reasons audiences connect with the show.

The trailer gives a glimpse of the challenges Ted will face. It’s clear that his firm is in trouble, and there’s a long road ahead if he wants to turn things around.

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What makes Suits LA different

While Suits LA shares the legal-drama DNA of the original Suits, it’s not a carbon copy. Each character has unique motivations, quirks, and conflicts. Ted Black’s story is just one of many in this new world of Los Angeles law.

Amell hinted that Ted’s relationships with his colleagues will be an important part of the show. Stuart Lane, Rick Dodson, and Erica Rollins each bring their own personalities to the table, which will create plenty of drama and, possibly, alliances or betrayals.

Amell is excited about playing Ted Black. He appreciates the character’s complexity and the chance to show Ted’s vulnerabilities. For Amell, the role is a departure from his past characters, offering him a fresh challenge.

The show’s creators, including Suits creator Aaron Korsh, believe that Suits LA has something special. Its focus on the entertainment industry, paired with compelling character arcs, sets it apart from its predecessor.

Amell has expressed excitement for how different Suits LA is from the original series. The new setting, new characters, and new legal focus all offer fresh storytelling opportunities.

Ted Black’s story is shaping up to be a fascinating mix of glamour and struggle. With Stephen Amell at the helm, Suits LA promises to deliver plenty of drama, vulnerability, and high-stakes action. It will be interesting to see how Ted evolves, and whether he can find peace with himself while saving his law firm.

Stay tuned with Soap Central for more updates!