Nikolaj Coster-Waldau’s Unique Role in Immortal Detective Series

Danish actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, renowned for his role as Jaime Lannister in the acclaimed series Game of Thrones, also starred in the unique detective series New Amsterdam three years prior to the fantasy epic’s premiere. This lesser-known show aired for one season in 2008 and featured Coster-Waldau as the lead character, Detective John Amsterdam.

The premise of New Amsterdam sets it apart from conventional detective dramas. The series follows Amsterdam, a homicide detective in New York City, who possesses a remarkable secret. After saving the life of a Native American girl in 1642, a Lenape shaman bestowed upon him a spell of immortality. As a result, Amsterdam, who is now 417 years old, has not aged since that fateful encounter and will only begin to age once he finds his true love.

Executive producer David Mason described Amsterdam’s character as one that encapsulates the dual nature of immortality—the joy it brings and the accompanying longing for meaningful connections. Each episode features Amsterdam solving murder cases while also reflecting on his extensive life experiences, which include flashbacks to various historical events such as the Civil War and the Great Depression.

Joining Coster-Waldau in the series is Eva Marquez, a new detective whose dynamic with Amsterdam adds layers to the investigation narrative. Their chemistry hints at a potential romantic subplot, while another key character, Dr. Sara Dillane, played by Alexie Gilmore, initially becomes suspicious of Amsterdam’s secrets after treating him for a temporary death due to a heart attack. As their relationship develops, Amsterdam believes Dillane might be the soulmate he has been searching for throughout his long life.

Despite its cancellation after just eight episodes, New Amsterdam stands out for its emotional depth. The series delves into themes of love, relationships, and the existential plight of immortality. It challenges viewers to consider profound questions: Does love truly give life meaning? Would one desire eternal life without having met their soulmate?

Coster-Waldau’s portrayal of Amsterdam not only showcased his ability to lead a series but also hinted at the complexity he would later bring to Jaime Lannister. Both characters grapple with internal conflicts and trauma, embodying a mix of charm and depth. Coster-Waldau’s Amsterdam is a notorious flirt, navigating numerous relationships with a blend of charisma and sincerity, much like his later character in Game of Thrones.

While New Amsterdam may not have achieved long-term success, it remains a captivating watch for fans of Coster-Waldau and those interested in a different take on the detective genre. The series approaches significant themes with sincerity, making it a noteworthy part of Coster-Waldau’s acting repertoire before he became a household name in the fantasy realm of Westeros.