Is Robert a villain in Apple TV+'s Imperfect Women? Series stars Elisabeth Moss, Kerry Washington, and Kate Mara delve into the ambiguous nature of the character, emphasizing how audience perceptions are intentionally manipulated throughout the season.

Shifting Suspicions and the Power of Secrets

“Whatever you think [now] is going to be different [after each] episode,” says Moss, who also serves as an executive producer. The series intentionally plays with audience trust, oscillating between suspicion of Eleanor and Robert. The writers aimed to constantly modulate what viewers believed, even altering their conclusions during post-production.

A Pivotal Moment in Episode Three

A key turning point occurs in episode three, titled “Monster,” when Robert recoils from Eleanor’s touch after she proposes a joint statement to conceal their affair. His subsequent decision to cease all communication with Eleanor, citing legal advice, casts doubt on his earlier claim of not being a monster. This moment also reveals a letter to Nancy where Robert admits awareness of the affair, further complicating his character.

The Chemistry Between the Leads

Elisabeth Moss initially optioned Araminta Hall’s novel and was drawn to the role of Mary. She considered both Eleanor and Mary, ultimately choosing Mary for its unique qualities and the opportunity to collaborate with fellow actresses.

Building a Believable Friendship

Mara described the chemistry between the three leads as effortless, despite a lack of pre-filming bonding time. “There was so much respect and admiration here,” she explained. Washington added that shared connections and observing each other’s careers fostered a sense of trust and potential friendship.

Lesli Linka Glatter's Influence

The involvement of director Lesli Linka Glatter, a reunion for Moss, was seen as a strong indicator of the show’s ambition. Glatter’s position as president of the DGA underscored the project’s significance and attracted a talented team.

Are They Really Friends?

The actresses acknowledge the heightened drama of the series, but emphasize the genuine connection between their characters. Washington points to the deep support Nancy receives from Mary, and the complicated bond between Eleanor and Mary. “The exciting thing is that people are going to ask that question,” Mara stated, highlighting the show’s intention to spark conversations about the nature of friendship.

Understanding Character Motivations

The actresses stressed the importance of understanding their characters’ choices, even if they don’t agree with them. Moss believes in finding compassionate understanding to truly embody a character, while Washington emphasizes the need to see the “why” behind their actions. They also discussed the power of secrets and the fear of judgment that can strain friendships, potentially leading to fatal consequences.

Ultimately, the question of Robert’s true nature remains open-ended. The creators deliberately aimed to keep audiences guessing, constantly shifting suspicions and challenging preconceived notions.