Table of Contents
A NYCC Exclusive with Wunmi Mosaku and the Cast of Passenger TV Series. Every year, New York Comic Con (NYCC) transforms New York City into the ultimate gathering space for fans, creators, and stars from across the globe. It’s where pop culture meets passion, where fandoms unite, and where audiences get to see their favorite shows, films, and comics celebrated on one of the biggest stages.
This year, Parade Deck had the privilege of sitting down with award-winning actress Wunmi Mosaku, best known for her roles in Lovecraft Country, Loki, and most recently, the gripping dark comedy-thriller Passenger. Hosted by Greg Williams of Parade Deck, the exclusive interview gave fans a closer look at Mosaku’s first-ever Comic Con experience, her insights into Passenger TV Series, and the many layers of her character, Riya Ajunwa.
Wunmi MosakuWHO IS WUNMI MOSAKU?
Before diving into her NYCC experience, it’s worth pausing to appreciate the career of Wunmi Mosaku.
Born in Nigeria and raised in the U.K., Mosaku has built a reputation for bringing depth and authenticity to every role she takes on. She won a BAFTA TV Award for her performance in Damilola, Our Loved Boy, and her work in Lovecraft Country earned her international recognition. Marvel fans know her as Hunter B-15 in Loki, while horror enthusiasts remember her chilling yet emotional performance in His House. She’s also starred in We Hunt Together and other acclaimed projects.
In 2024, Mosaku returned to television in Passenger, where she portrays Riya Ajunwa — a character grappling with fear, purpose, and self-discovery. With her ability to blend strength and vulnerability, Mosaku has once again proven why she’s one of the most versatile actresses working today.
Experiencing NYCC for the First Time
Despite her extensive career, NYCC marked Mosaku’s very first Comic Con appearance. For her, the excitement was palpable:
“I’m excited. I really want to go in and see the whole thing,” she shared with a smile.
She also reflected on the uniqueness of Passenger, a show rooted in northern England:
“You’ve not seen the North represented like this before. The dialogue is rich, specific, and deep — Andy [Nyman, co-creator] has written something wonderful.”
Even as a first-timer, Mosaku was clearly ready to dive headfirst into the whirlwind energy of Comic Con, eager to connect with fans who have been captivated by her work.
Inside the World of Passenger
For those who haven’t yet streamed it, Passenger defies easy categorization. It’s equal parts dark comedy, psychological thriller, and small-town mystery, with an atmosphere that feels both familiar and unsettling.
Greg Williams likened the show to a blend of Hot Fuzz, Ready Player One, and Squid Game. Mosaku laughed at the comparison, admitting she could at least see the Squid Game influence.
But what makes Passenger truly distinct, according to Mosaku, is its tone and identity:
“It’s very northern. There’s this unnatural element bubbling underneath — not supernatural, but something that feels… off. And it’s about community, fear, and what happens when ordinary people face the extraordinary.”
The Many Layers of Riya
At the heart of the series is Riya Ajunwa, Mosaku’s complex and multifaceted character. Outwardly strong but internally fragile, Riya embodies the contradictions many viewers can relate to.
“She’s strong on the outside, but a little bit broken on the inside. She’s brittle, she’s scared, and she doesn’t know how to face her fears — fear of being unfulfilled, unloved, or unable to grasp her purpose. Instead of looking inward, she avoids herself by focusing outward.”
One element Mosaku especially loved was the chance to use her natural accent in the role.
“There was a freedom of improvisation. On other projects, like Lovecraft Country, I couldn’t improvise because my accent didn’t fit the world. But with Passenger, I could be myself vocally — and that gave me a new kind of freedom.”
The Signature Parade Deck Question
No Parade Deck interview is complete without a nod to the military community. When asked which branch she would join — Royal Navy, Air Force, or Army — Mosaku responded playfully:
“That’s a curveball! I don’t know… but since I play B-15 in Loki, who’s basically an army soldier, I might have to lean that way.”
Her answer brought laughs and applause, rounding out an already engaging conversation.
What Sets Passenger Apart?
In today’s crowded streaming landscape, it takes something special for a series to stand out. For Mosaku, Passenger does just that.
Unique Setting: Northern England, a region rarely spotlighted in mainstream TV.
Authentic Dialogue: Balances simplicity and depth without losing its grounded feel.
Relatable Themes: Explores community, fear, and resilience in the face of uncertainty.
Tone & Style: A blend of dark humor, suspense, and emotional truth.
This combination makes Passenger not just entertaining, but memorable — the kind of show that lingers long after the credits roll.
Barry Sloane on Playing Eddie
The Passenger TV Series panel at NYCC also featured actor Barry Sloane, who portrays Eddie — a character often branded as the village “monster.”
Sloane explained how he approached such a misunderstood figure:
“I took everything I understand as a father and a husband and tried to put myself in Eddie’s shoes. If you’re told you’re a village monster long enough, you’ll become that. But behind the tattoos and the scowl, there’s more than people realize.”
Sloane also touched on his real-life military connection, recalling his time training with the U.S. Navy SEALs for a previous role.
“I’d have to say the Navy,” he admitted when asked which branch he’d join. “Those guys put me through hell, and I respect anyone who serves.”
His comments earned cheers from the NYCC crowd, highlighting the authenticity and dedication he brings to the character.
Why Fans Want More?
With Season 1 sparking buzz, fans are already clamoring for a second installment. Mosaku’s layered performance, Sloane’s intensity, and the show’s originality make Passenger a standout in today’s streaming lineup.
Mosaku summed it up best:
“It’s about fear, it’s about community. And I don’t think we’ve seen something quite like this before.”
Whether or not Season 2 is confirmed, the energy at NYCC proved one thing: audiences are invested — not just in the show, but in the cast who bring it to life.
✨ Passenger is now streaming. Don’t just watch, join the conversation, share your theories, and stay tuned for more Parade Deck exclusives from New York Comic Con.
FAQs
What is Passenger (TV Series) about?
Passenger is a British dark comedy-thriller that follows a small northern English town shaken by strange events, blending suspense, eccentric humor, and community drama.
Who does Wunmi Mosaku play in Passenger?
Wunmi Mosaku plays Riya Ajunwa, a strong yet vulnerable character grappling with fear, unfulfillment, and identity.
Where was Passenger filmed?
The series was filmed in the north of England, giving it a distinctive regional authenticity rarely seen in mainstream TV.
Will there be a Passenger Season 2?
Although fans and cast members are hopeful, no official announcement has been made yet. Interest in a second season is strong due to the show’s originality and positive reception.
Is Passenger supernatural?
No. While it has an unsettling tone and strange happenings, Wunmi Mosaku describes it as unnatural, but not supernatural — rooted in community tension and psychological suspense.
When did Wunmi Mosaku appear at New York Comic Con (NYCC)?
Wunmi Mosaku appeared at New York Comic Con 2024 with the cast of Passenger, giving fans exclusive insight into the making of the series.
What else is Wunmi Mosaku known for?
In addition to Passenger, Wunmi Mosaku is best known for her roles in Lovecraft Country, Loki (as Hunter B-15), His House, and We Hunt Together.
