‘The Young Pope’: Writer Paolo Sorrentino talks Lenny Belardo and why Jude Law is fit for the role

Those who have seen the first episodes of “The Young Pope” may have noticed that Lenny Belardo/Pope Pius XIII (Jude Law) is not the type who would remind the viewers of any other pope. That was because it was Italian filmmaker Paolo Sorrentino’s intention when he wrote “The Young Pope” four years ago. The new show can be considered as 2017’s first major television Rorschach test, and people can’t stop talking about its lead character.

In an interview with Vulture, Sorrentino has revealed that Law was the first actor that came to his mind when he was writing “The Young Pope.” He described Law as a wonderful actor and one who has the ability to look childish and authoritative at the same time. He said that specific ability is very useful in the portrayal of the character.

“The Young Pope” has already shown two episodes, and based on what we have seen so far, Belardo has a mind to boast his own. He’s the type who does not conform to papal rules, which was evident when he was smoking into the pontiff’s chambers and snubs the Cardinal Secretary of State.

“The Young Pope” viewers may agree that there is brilliance when Belardo speaks, with a heightened vocabulary and intelligent choice of words. But most of the time, he does not make his gift of gab to good use. There was a time when he “jokes” with a priest who hears his confession that that he is not a believer of God.

“The Young Pope” has debuted on Jan. 15 at 9PM Eastern on HBO. The second episode aired at 9PM on Jan. 16. The first season is composed of 10 episodes, with remaining episodes to air Sundays and Mondays at 9PM. Fans in Australia can catch up with “The Young Pope” through HBO GO.