Willem Dafoe, set to star in Beetlejuice 2, recently shared intriguing details about his character in the upcoming horror-comedy sequel. Reuniting original director Tim Burton with the iconic cast, including Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara, the film also introduces new faces such as Monica Belucci, Jenna Ortega, and Justin Theroux.

In a recent interview with Variety, Dafoe shed light on his role as an afterlife police officer, revealing a unique backstory. His character, once a B-movie action star in the living world, met an untimely demise that led him to the other side. Now serving as a detective in the afterlife, Dafoe described his job as being “colored by the fact of who I was” when alive, adding a layer of complexity to his character.

The revelation about Dafoe’s character adds depth to the ensemble, showcasing a blend of comedy and fantasy within the Beetlejuice universe. While the initial description of an afterlife police officer was vague, Dafoe’s portrayal promises a more broadly comic presence, aligning seamlessly with the offbeat tone set by the original movie.

Dafoe’s role not only plays to his strengths but also allows him to showcase his versatility. With a notable villainous turn as Norman Osborn in the Spider-Man franchise, Dafoe has demonstrated his ability to embody menacing characters. However, his experience in Wes Anderson films, such as Asteroid City and The French Dispatch, also highlights his knack for a softer comic sensibility.

As Beetlejuice 2’s storyline remains largely under wraps, the extent of Dafoe’s role is yet to be unveiled. Nevertheless, it appears that Dafoe will bring a unique blend of fantasy, horror, and comedy to his character, complementing Michael Keaton’s iconic portrayal of Betelgeuse and adding his distinctive touch to Tim Burton’s celebrated material.