For two seasons, FX’s Fargo has managed to make its voice heard in a crowded TV landscape by not only expanding the mythology of the Coen Brothers’ original 1996 film Fargo but by expertly blending elements of drama and dark comedy in each and every episode. Admittedly, the show’s dramatic aspects usually garner more attention, but don’t be mistaken: the real secret weapons of the show are its comedic actors.
Now, according to The Hollywood Reporter, Jim Gaffigan is set to join the ranks of such adept comedic performers as Bob Odenkirk (Mr. Show), Glenn Howerton (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia) and Nick Offerman (Parks and Recreation), and enter the Fargo universe.
Gaffigan has signed on as a series regular for the show’s upcoming third season and will be playing a character named Donny Mashman, who works alongside Carrie Coon’s Gloria Burgle as a police deputy.
While Gaffigan is best known for his stand-up comedy, he has also acted in several films and TV shows over the years; just a few of his credits include turns in 17 Again, It’s Kind of a Funny Story and Hot Pursuit. In fact, Gaffigan has consistently been working in the industry since the late 90s, so he’s certainly no stranger to being in front of the camera.
Recently, he and his wife decided to end their TV Land show, The Jim Gaffigan Show, after two well-received seasons to spend more time with their children.
As of now, the rest of the Fargo season 3 cast includes Ewan McGregor (American Pastoral), Scoot McNairy (Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice) and Mary Elizabeth Winstead (10 Cloverfield Lane). Production on the new season will begin before the year is out, and it will hit the airwaves in 2017.
Originally published October 28, 2016. Updated April 16, 2018.
