Alexander Skarsgård, famed for his role as Eric Northman in HBO’s “True Blood,” thrilled fans with a surprise appearance on FX’s blockbuster comedy “What We Do in the Shadows.” The cameo aired during “Come Out and Play,” offering a humorous tribute to Skarsgård’s legendary vampire character while integrating smoothly into the show’s trademark humor.
The Swedish actor appeared in a brief but memorable cameo during a vampire gathering, dressed in full black and wearing fangs evocative of his “True Blood” character. In a humorous twist, his character lifted his hand to ask a question. Still, it hastily lowered it as another vampire was brutally crushed nearby. The self-aware humor poked fun at Skarsgård’s experience in the vampire genre, creating a moment fans of both shows could appreciate.
Skarsgård enjoyed the lighter tone of the series and joked about his involvement later. “I’m afraid I have no recollection of shooting this episode because Dr. Laszlo Cravensworth hypnotized me at the wrap party,” he said, referring to one of the show’s main characters. He also teased followers with a playful introduction of a new YouTube fan page titled “Because you’re Cravens-worth it.”
“What We Do in the Shadows” has a lengthy history of presenting guest stars with vampire ties. This season alone has included appearances by Wesley Snipes, Tilda Swinton, Evan Rachel Wood, and Danny Trejo. The show, a mockumentary-style comedy about a community of vampires living on Staten Island, has gained popularity among fans due to its irreverent take on vampire lore. It began as a 2014 film directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, also executive producers on the TV series.
As the show approaches the end of its final season, with only two episodes left—”The Promotion” on December 9 and “The Finale” on December 16—viewers are avidly speculating about more prospective guest stars. Some fans are hoping for cameos by performers such as Antonio Banderas and Sarah Michelle Gellar, who are both recognized for their roles in vampire-themed films.
Skarsgård’s appearance underscores the show’s unique ability to celebrate and lampoon vampire culture, merging comedy with loving allusions to the genre’s history. Fans of “True Blood” and “What We Do in the Shadows” agreed that the moment perfectly encapsulated the show’s irreverent character.