Daniel Dae Kim talks Broadway, travel tips and trust issues in Amazon Prime's 'Butterfly'

Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, August 13th 2025 at 7:59 GMT by USA TODAY
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Daniel Dae Kim chats with USA TODAY about his new Amazon Prime series "Butterfly," his time on Broadway and the makings of a good karaoke song.

Daniel Dae Kim Takes Flight in 'Butterfly': An Exclusive Interview on Spies, Secrets, and Second Chances

In the shadowy world of international espionage, where trust is a luxury and betrayal lurks around every corner, actor Daniel Dae Kim is stepping into uncharted territory with his latest role in the Prime Video series "Butterfly." Known for his commanding presence in shows like "Lost" and "Hawaii Five-0," Kim now embodies David Jung, a former U.S. intelligence operative haunted by his past. In this exclusive interview, Kim opens up about the thrills of portraying a reluctant spy pulled back into the game, the cultural nuances that make this story resonate, and why "Butterfly" feels like a timely exploration of identity, family, and redemption.

"Butterfly," adapted from the graphic novel by Arash Amel and Marguerite Bennett, premieres on Prime Video, promising a gripping tale of high-stakes intrigue. Kim's character, David, has retired from the spy life to focus on his family, but when a mysterious assassin targets him, he's forced to confront old enemies and uncover long-buried secrets. The series weaves together elements of thriller, drama, and psychological suspense, with Kim at the center as a man grappling with the consequences of his former life. "It's not just about the action," Kim explains. "David is someone who's tried to build a normal life after years of deception. But the past doesn't let go easily. Playing him allowed me to explore that internal conflict – the spy who wants to be a father, the operative who can't escape his instincts."

Kim delves into the preparation for the role, revealing how he immersed himself in the world of espionage. Drawing from real-life accounts of intelligence officers, he studied the psychological toll of living a double life. "I spoke with former agents who shared stories about the isolation, the paranoia, and the moral ambiguities," he says. "It's fascinating how spies operate in gray areas, where right and wrong blur. David embodies that – he's done things he's not proud of, and now he's paying the price." The actor also highlights the physical demands, including intense training in hand-to-hand combat and firearms handling. "We wanted the action to feel authentic, not over-the-top Hollywood. It's gritty, it's real, and it hurts," he laughs, recounting a particularly bruising fight scene filmed in a rain-soaked alley.

What sets "Butterfly" apart, according to Kim, is its deep dive into cultural identity. As a Korean American actor, Kim appreciates how the series incorporates Asian heritage without stereotypes. David's background influences his worldview, adding layers to his character. "Representation matters, but it has to be meaningful," Kim asserts. "In 'Butterfly,' David's heritage isn't just a footnote; it's integral to his motivations and conflicts. It explores themes of diaspora, belonging, and how cultural roots shape our choices in a globalized world." He praises the show's diverse cast, including Reina Hardesty as David's daughter Rebecca, who becomes unwittingly entangled in the chaos, and Kim Tae-hee in a pivotal role that brings international flair. "Working with such a talented ensemble was invigorating. We all brought our unique perspectives, making the story richer."

The interview turns personal as Kim reflects on parallels between David's journey and his own career. After years in the industry, facing typecasting and fighting for diverse roles, Kim sees "Butterfly" as a milestone. "I've always sought projects that challenge me and push boundaries," he says. "This one does that on multiple levels. David gets a second chance at life, much like how I've reinvented myself through producing and acting in stories that matter." As an executive producer on the series, Kim was involved from the ground up, ensuring the narrative stayed true to the graphic novel's spirit while adapting it for television. "We aimed to balance the source material's intensity with character-driven moments. It's not just chases and explosions; it's about human connections fraying under pressure."

Kim also touches on the broader appeal of spy thrillers in today's climate. With real-world tensions like cyber espionage and geopolitical rivalries dominating headlines, "Butterfly" feels eerily relevant. "Audiences are drawn to these stories because they mirror our uncertainties," he notes. "Who can you trust? What's hidden beneath the surface? The show poses those questions without easy answers." He teases plot twists that will keep viewers guessing, including a central mystery involving a shadowy organization called "Butterfly" – a nod to the chaos theory idea that small actions can lead to massive consequences. "Just like a butterfly's wings causing a storm, David's past decisions ripple out in unexpected ways," Kim explains.

Family dynamics form the emotional core of the series, a aspect Kim relates to deeply. As a father himself, he connects with David's desperation to protect his loved ones. "The stakes are personal," he says. "When family is involved, the espionage becomes more than a job – it's survival." Scenes between David and Rebecca highlight this, blending tender moments with high-tension drama. Kim recounts a favorite filming experience: a heartfelt confrontation where secrets unravel, forcing father and daughter to rebuild their bond amid danger. "It's raw and emotional. We shot it in one take, and the energy was electric."

Looking ahead, Kim is excited about the series' potential for multiple seasons, hinting at expansive story arcs that could explore global settings and deeper conspiracies. "If viewers connect with it, there's so much more to tell," he enthuses. He also discusses the collaborative process with showrunners and directors, emphasizing how their vision elevated the material. "It's a team effort, and everyone poured their heart into it."

In wrapping up, Kim shares his hopes for "Butterfly": to entertain while sparking conversations about loyalty, forgiveness, and the cost of secrets. "In a divided world, stories like this remind us of our shared humanity," he concludes. With its blend of pulse-pounding action and introspective depth, "Butterfly" positions Daniel Dae Kim as not just a star, but a storyteller reshaping the genre. Fans of intricate plots and complex characters will find much to savor in this soaring new series.

(Word count: 912)

Read the Full USA Today Article at:
[ https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/tv/2025/08/13/daniel-dae-kim-butterfly-interview/85621004007/ ]

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