Titus Welliver on Chemistry with Queen Latifah: ‘We’ve Known Each Other for Centuries, But Never Worked Together!’

Titus Welliver has left a lasting impression on audiences as Harry Bosch, the gritty LAPD detective turned private investigator, in Bosch and Bosch: Legacy. But now, with his role in The Equalizer as CIA operative Elijah Reed, Welliver is stepping into a new world, one that adds a layer of complexity and intrigue. As the show dives into the backstory of Reed and his relationship with his adopted daughter, the actor reflects on the differences between his two iconic roles and his experience working with Queen Latifah.

A New Role: Elijah Reed in The Equalizer

Welliver’s latest role in The Equalizer is a significant departure from his previous work. Playing Elijah Reed, a former CIA operative with a complex past, Welliver is bringing his skills to a story that revolves around family, secrets, and high-stakes action. In the episode titled “Sins of the Father,” Reed’s adopted daughter, Samantha (played by Juani Feliz), contacts McCall (Queen Latifah) after her father goes missing. Together, they team up to track him down, uncovering secrets about Reed’s past in the Dominican Republic.

“The episode really focuses on our characters and our backstory,” Welliver explains. “It’s about what’s happening in real time and how Samantha comes in contact with McCall. It was a marvelous experience. Juani is an extraordinarily gifted actor, and we had great chemistry together. Queen and I have known each other for ages, but we never worked together before, so that was really the cherry on top.”

This episode marks an exciting chapter for Welliver, not just for the depth of the storyline but for the opportunity to work alongside Queen Latifah, whom he calls “amazing” after their first on-screen collaboration.

A Change from Bosch: Elijah Reed’s Character

Welliver’s portrayal of Harry Bosch was known for its grounded, realistic approach to crime-solving. The character was deeply entrenched in the realities of law enforcement, offering a raw and gritty depiction of an LAPD detective. However, Elijah Reed presents a stark contrast.

“Eli Reed is very, very different from Bosch,” Welliver says. “He’s more open and demonstrative. His relationship with his daughter, whom he has raised to be another version of himself, is strong. Despite the secrecy and protection surrounding his past, their bond is central to the story.” Welliver describes Reed as a character who is “Jason Bourne without the memory problems,” emphasizing his well-rounded and formidable nature, especially when paired with his daughter’s matching skill set.

While Bosch’s interactions were often marked by solitude and emotional reserve, Reed’s character is more interactive and emotionally open, a dynamic that adds layers to his role in The Equalizer.

The Equalizer vs. Bosch: A Shift in Tone

Having spent years portraying Bosch, a character deeply grounded in the complexities of real-world law enforcement, Welliver notes a difference in the overall tone between the two series. “Bosch was deeply grounded in reality. I get approached often by law enforcement and military personnel who tell me they watch the show because it’s real; it’s never goofy or off the rails,” he shares.

On the other hand, The Equalizer retains a grounded reality but adds a more heightened level of action and intrigue. “The Equalizer is also very grounded, but it has a heightened kind of reality to it. There are things that are a bit more fantastic than you’d see in Bosch,” Welliver explains. This shift allows for a more dynamic, action-driven narrative while still maintaining the core of what makes these characters relatable.

Elijah Reed and the McCall Legacy

Welliver also draws parallels between his character and other iconic characters within The Equalizer universe, especially McCall. “Eli Reed is of the same ilk as McCall, with a high skill level and dangerous capabilities,” he states. Like McCall, who has been portrayed by Edward Woodward in the original and Denzel Washington in the more recent films, Reed embodies a lethal and efficient character with a clear moral code.

“What’s interesting is that his daughter, who has been under his tutelage for 20 to 25 years, possesses that same skillset,” Welliver explains. “Together, they’re even more formidable. I hope people dig it,” he adds, highlighting the importance of family dynamics in the story and how Reed’s bond with his daughter plays a crucial role in the narrative’s success.

Looking Ahead

As The Equalizer continues to evolve, Welliver’s portrayal of Elijah Reed brings a fresh perspective to the series. While his previous role as Harry Bosch defined him as a master of gritty realism, Reed offers a more action-packed, emotionally layered experience. With the potential for future storylines involving his character, Welliver’s journey in the world of The Equalizer is just beginning.

The chemistry between Welliver, Queen Latifah, and the talented supporting cast is undeniable, and fans are eager to see where the story will go next. As for Welliver, he’s excited to continue exploring the complexities of his characters, offering viewers a multifaceted portrayal of crime, justice, and family.