Actor Paul Calderon made a memorable debut on HBO's Boardwalk Empire Sunday when his character killed Nucky Thompson's (Steve Buscemi) assailant in Havana, then proceeded to cut off the dead man's ear and place it in his pocket.

Michael K. Williams Shares New Chalky White Poster For 'Boardwalk Empire'

The actor may not have had any lines during the Season 5 premiere, but according to the NY Daily News on Wednesday, Calderon won't be disappearing anytime soon.

Calderon discovered after he'd taken the role that he'd been the top pick for showrunners, who approached his manager about the part before Calderon had even heard about it.

'Boardwalk Empire' Films Series Finale

As for speaking, or perhaps even landing a name, the actor didn't give much away.

"I do get to say a word now and again and here and there," he explained. "But what they wanted was a menacing figure who is Steve Buscemi's bodyguard, lingering and hovering around."

Playing a character of few words, Calderon had to focus on other ways of creating his own sense of presence onscreen. "I needed to convey the character by using my physicality," he continued, "It's much more challenging doing a role where you don't say anything."

The Puerto Rican actor, known for roles in Four Rooms and Pulp Fiction, has remained largely out of the spotlight since the birth of his children. It was important to him to be present in their lives growing up. Now that they are a little older, however, he's become more willing to take on projects.

Perhaps his character on HBO's prohibition drama could even develop this season as a fan favorite, as Jack Huston did with the popular Richard Harrow during Season 1.

Boardwalk Empire continues on HBO with its fifth and final season Sunday, September 14 at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

Tags
Boardwalk Empire, Hbo, Television