Sweet Tooth, a standout character in Peacock`s Twisted Metal TV series, is physically embodied by wrestler and actor Samoa Joe, with comedian Will Arnett lending his voice. Joe describes Sweet Tooth as a sheer “agent of chaos,” whose unpredictable and violent actions are designed to upend situations in the most unexpected ways. Despite the depravity of his deeds, Samoa Joe believes Sweet Tooth`s personality is remarkably well-suited for the entertainment industry.
During a visit to the Twisted Metal set in Toronto, Samoa Joe reflected on his upbringing within the entertainment world. “I know people like Sweet Tooth,” he shared, referring to individuals relentlessly striving to make it “by hook or by crook.” He noted that this intense, often manic drive has been a constant presence in his life. Joe consciously aimed to incorporate aspects of this obsession into Sweet Tooth`s portrayal, drawing from his observations of how easily people can become consumed by such ambition.
Joe further likened Sweet Tooth to the many narcissists found in Hollywood. “Sweet Tooth is very much a narcissist,” he emphasized. “The world revolves around him, and he thinks he`s the main character in the movie. That`s the basis of who he is. And what really, especially in this show, what really drives me to do what he does.”
Sweet Tooth, according to Samoa Joe, acts on his whims regardless of the cost. In the upcoming Season 2, he will face a new roster of adversaries, largely a consequence of his participation in the vehicular combat tournament orchestrated by Calypso, portrayed by Anthony Carrigan. Joe comically characterized Sweet Tooth`s frustration, stating he`s “desperately anxious to murder them as soon as possible, and he can`t,” comparing it to “the kid who desperately wants that cookie in that jar.”
Fans anticipating a moral transformation or a change of heart for Sweet Tooth should temper their expectations. A chilling flashback in Season 1, which delved into Sweet Tooth`s origins and motivations, depicted a young Sweet Tooth brutally murdering an adorable golden retriever with knitting needles in front of a live stage audience. He also locked his parents in a cell and discarded the key. Samoa Joe’s blunt assessment was clear: “I mean, he killed the dog. I think that`s pretty… yeah, that`s unforgivable.”
Despite his destructive nature, Joe mused that Sweet Tooth`s malicious acts might stem from a bizarre quest for contentment. “I think Sweet Tooth has the best intentions for the worst things ever,” he continued, suggesting that much of his obsession is fueled by “his pursuit of the fame that he never really got.”
Showrunner MJ Smith confirmed that Sweet Tooth`s role will be significantly expanded in Season 2. He revealed that the character will appear in “three times as many episodes” as he did in the first season, promising audiences “a lot of Sweet Tooth.”
Twisted Metal Season 2 is set to premiere on July 31st on Peacock.