Balthazar star Tomer Sisley previews the mysteries of Balthazar series 3

Balthazar is solving more crimes on Acorn TV. Balthazar series 3 is now streaming, with a whole new set of mysteries for the French pathologist to figure out—as well as the next chapter in his own personal journey.

Tomer Sisley, who stars as the title character, joined Precinct TV to preview the next batch of episodes, talk about why he enjoys the show as much as he does, and discuss the evolution of his character.

You can watch all of series 3 now exclusively on Acorn TV. And if you haven’t checked the show out yet, catch up with the trailer here.

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Precinct TV: What is it about Balthazar as a character that brought you back to play him again?

Tomer Sisley: Balthazar is not one, but at least three different characters or personalities, depending on what situation he is in: working with and mentoring his two younger scientists, bragging and teasing when he is around the captain, and completely vulnerable and sad when he is alone at home with no one else to see him.

I just love this mix! I think there is a lot to play with, for an actor. I guess it also helps that I put so much of me in him… so playing Balthazar again is a little bit like playing me again.

PTV: When this series picks up, six months have elapsed and he’s left France. How much has he changed since we’ve last seen him, and would you say that these are ongoing changes that we’ll continue to explore throughout series 3? 

TS: Balthazar left everything behind, took a boat, and sailed away, trying to look in another direction than his miserable reality: his best friend died because of him, the woman of his life was assassinated and the murderer is still around playing with him, his new serious girlfriend left. Balthazar needed fresh air—yet the biggest changes are to come.

Balthazar will act on his feelings for Helene. He will decide to commit…and it might not end up the way he thought. This third season is the season of the reveal!

PTV: Personally, Balthazar is in a hard place still dealing with the past loss of his wife while he’s trying to look forward. How would you describe his personal life this season, and what’s it like for you to play him in this state of transition?

TS: His personal life is the biggest rollercoaster you’ve ever seen! [I] can’t say too much because I don’t want to spoil. Playing a character who feels a lot, who goes through a lot, is always more interesting than playing a character who has no problems and no inner fights. The bigger the rollercoaster is, the more interesting it is to play!

PTV: There are some unconventional cases in series 3, including a clown. Without giving too much away, are there any that stood out to you as particularly interesting or surprising when you were filming the episodes?

TS: The clown was a part, yes. But the biggest case for me is the one about himself in the last episode.

PTV: Three series is a long time to play any character. What has been the biggest challenge for you in this role so far?

TS: I’m 46.  The biggest challenge? Staying fit! (laughs) Apart from that, I am very involved in the creative process of the series when it comes to Balthazar. I have to find the right tone, the right jokes. I do all my stunts, so I have to come up with some action ideas. I guess one of the biggest challenges when you’re so much involved is to try and keep renewing yourself.

PTV: U.S. viewers don’t get a chance to see a lot of French genre shows. How would you say a French crime drama like Balthazar varies from an American or British crime drama? What are the unique things that France brings to the genre?

TS: I am not certain that Balthazar represents any typical French crime drama, and maybe that’s what made its success here in France. When you close your eyes and listen carefully…Balthazar sounds a little bit more French than most of the American or British crime dramas. Maybe it has something to do with the way Americans pronounce the word “croissants.” Honestly, except the budget, I don’t know if there is a difference related to the geographical origin of a drama.

Balthazar series 3 is now streaming on Acorn TV. Watch now with a 7-day free trial.