How Jonathan Ajayi Transformed for 'Alien: Earth'

A Unique Path to a Breakout Role

Jonathan Ajayi, a 29-year-old British actor, found his way into the role of Smee in the sci-fi horror series Alien: Earth through an unconventional approach. The show, set two years before the 1979 classic Alien, follows the Lost Boys—children with terminal illnesses whose consciousness is uploaded into adult-sized synthetic bodies. Smee, named after the character from Peter Pan, is one of these children, and Ajayi's performance brought the character to life in a way that felt authentically childlike.

Ajayi recalls how he landed the role by embracing the physicality of a child during his audition. Instead of simply acting like a child, he chose to behave like one. He even brought a can of Tango—a snack for synthetics—to his Zoom meeting with casting director Kate Rose James. As he recited his lines, he took a sip and let out a playful, exaggerated tone, saying, “Hey broh, dhu yuu wan shum aysh kreem?” This moment, filled with childlike energy, resonated with the casting team and helped him secure the part.

From London to the Big Screen

Ajayi, who graduated from the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts in 2018, had a handful of credits before Alien: Earth. These included roles in the British series Noughts + Crosses and Vigil, as well as a supporting role in Wonder Woman 1984. However, Alien: Earth marked his breakout performance, showcasing his ability to portray a child with authenticity and depth.

The challenge of playing a child in an adult body required Ajayi to observe real-life behaviors. He spent time watching children and studying their mannerisms, emotions, and interactions. He noted that children often express their feelings in ways that are unrefined and scattered, which he incorporated into his portrayal of Smee. His performance captures the essence of a child’s innocence, curiosity, and vulnerability.

Understanding Smee’s Background

Smee, as portrayed by Ajayi, is a character who starts with everything he wants but struggles with emotional challenges. According to showrunner Noah Hawley, Smee suffers from ADHD and grew up in a difficult home environment. His mother dealt with mental health issues, and he often faced instability and uncertainty. This background shaped Smee’s personality, making him emotionally resilient and eager to find a sense of belonging.

Ajayi explored how children cope in broken homes, noting that they often create their own sense of love and stability. This idea influenced his portrayal of Smee, who uses positivity and humor to navigate his world. The character’s belief in “happy thoughts” reflects the themes of Peter Pan, where imagination and hope allow one to fly.

Collaborating with Noah Hawley

Working with Noah Hawley was a valuable experience for Ajayi. He described Hawley as someone who thinks deeply and quickly, yet remains open to creative input. During the production of Alien: Earth, Ajayi and Hawley had meaningful discussions about Smee’s character and his journey. Hawley’s guidance helped Ajayi understand the emotional complexities of the role.

Ajayi also worked with his drama school teacher, James Kerr, using Grotowski puppet work to explore Smee’s physicality. Through this process, he visualized Smee’s movements and mannerisms, allowing the character to emerge naturally. This method helped Ajayi embody Smee in a way that felt authentic and grounded.

Reconnecting with His Inner Child

Playing Smee allowed Ajayi to reconnect with his own childhood experiences. He reflected on his younger self, recalling moments of feeling misunderstood and invisible. This connection helped him portray Smee with sincerity and empathy. Ajayi even revisited his childhood park at night, trying to remember the joy and wonder of believing he could swing so high he would go around.

This reflection led him to understand Smee’s worldview, which is shaped by the simplicity and optimism of childhood. In a world where adults live with more complexity, Smee’s perspective offers a unique lens through which to view the story.

Smee and Slightly: A Bond of Understanding

Smee’s relationship with Slightly is central to his character. Both characters struggle with emotional challenges, and Smee sees in Slightly a kindred spirit. He recognizes the loneliness and need for family that Slightly feels, and he becomes a source of support and comfort. This bond highlights Smee’s compassion and his desire to belong.

In episode seven, Smee faces a traumatic experience that forces him to grow up. The loss of innocence is a powerful theme in the episode, as Smee is forced to confront the harsh realities of the world. This moment marks a turning point in his character’s journey, as he begins to question his beliefs and values.

Looking Ahead for Smee

As Alien: Earth progresses, Smee will face new challenges and questions. He will have to navigate relationships, loyalty, and the complexities of growing up. Ajayi believes that Smee is beginning to see himself differently, and this realization may lead to further growth and transformation.

Ultimately, Smee’s journey is one of self-discovery and resilience. His story reminds us that even in a world filled with uncertainty and danger, there is always the possibility of finding hope, connection, and a sense of belonging.