Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, the acclaimed actor leading Netflix's drama series, The Lincoln Lawyer, opens up about the intensifying narrative of its fourth season. He shares his experiences portraying a defense attorney facing deeply personal tribulations, a departure that injects a profound gravity into the series' upcoming episodes. Beyond his television success, Garcia-Rulfo highlights his diverse cinematic ventures, from major blockbusters to acclaimed independent films, showcasing his expansive acting range and commitment to compelling storytelling.
The fourth season of The Lincoln Lawyer sees Garcia-Rulfo's character, Mickey Haller, confronting his most formidable legal battle yet – one that places him directly in the crosshairs of the justice system. While details of this pivotal storyline remain under wraps to preserve the viewing experience, the actor suggests a significant shift towards more somber and emotionally charged material. This development marks an exciting challenge for Garcia-Rulfo, who expresses a preference for exploring the complex, darker facets of human experience through his roles. With a fifth season already confirmed, fans can anticipate a resolution, albeit one paved with intense dramatic moments.
Garcia-Rulfo elaborated on the dynamic balance between his television commitments and his passion for diverse film projects. He noted that the demanding five-month production schedule for The Lincoln Lawyer allows him ample time to pursue other creative endeavors. These include his role in the 2025 summer blockbuster Jurassic World Rebirth, where he was part of an ensemble cast navigating intertwining narratives amidst prehistoric threats. His resume also boasts producing and starring in the 2024 film adaptation of the iconic Mexican novel, Pedro Páramo, and a forthcoming appearance in Andrew Haigh's adaptation of Colm Tóibín’s A Long Winter.
When contrasting the impact of his varied roles on his career, Garcia-Rulfo humorously observed that leading a long-running Netflix series offers unparalleled visibility. He contrasted this with the ensemble nature of Jurassic World, where, he quipped, the dinosaurs often steal the show. The actor also reflected on the international appeal of The Lincoln Lawyer, noting its particular popularity in regions with robust legal systems, especially across Europe. He recounted personal anecdotes from his travels, where he experienced firsthand the show's widespread recognition.
The actor also shared his deep personal connection to Pedro Páramo, revealing that its author, Juan Rulfo, was a distant relative. This familial tie imbued the project with profound significance, allowing Garcia-Rulfo to immerse himself in a story that is a cornerstone of Mexican literature. He described the novel as a complex yet beautiful narrative that encapsulates the essence of Mexico – its struggles, joys, and cultural relevance. His work on the film involved extensive academic research, transforming his understanding of the text and proving to be a life-altering artistic journey.
Looking ahead, Garcia-Rulfo expressed his ambition to collaborate with Mexico's most celebrated filmmakers, often referred to as the 'three amigos': Alfonso Cuarón, Guillermo del Toro, and Alejandro González Iñárritu. He also spoke warmly of his recent experience working with director Andrew Haigh on A Long Winter, highlighting the script's beauty and Haigh's compassionate approach to filmmaking, which reignited his passion for acting. Finally, when asked about insights gained from playing a lawyer, Garcia-Rulfo humorously advised against getting entangled in the legal system, acknowledging its complex and theatrical nature, particularly in the United States.