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Mae Martin’s work in Wayward is really turning heads, and it’s easy to see why. Playing Alex Dempsey, a trans cop drawn into a cult-like community, they’re exploring deep, nuanced themes like the seductive nature of hypermasculinity, societal pressures to conform, and the yearning for acceptance—all through the lens of a character who seems to have it all on the surface. Mae’s own reflections show how much thought and care they’ve put into portraying Alex’s internal conflict, making the show feel emotionally raw while still thrilling.
It’s also fascinating that Wayward draws from real-life trauma. Mae’s friend’s experiences in a troubled teen facility inform the series, giving it a disturbing but authentic foundation. The blend of heightened thriller elements with true stories makes the narrative both gripping and meaningful.
And then there’s that surreal, full-circle moment with Mark McKinney of Kids in the Hall. Mae literally grew up admiring him and even babysat for him at 13, yet in the show, Alex ends up in a fight scene with him. It’s a clever mix of personal nostalgia and dark comedy that adds a unique layer to the storytelling.
Overall, Wayward seems like a bold, genre-bending series that’s as emotionally rich as it is thrilling, and Mae Martin’s performance is clearly at the heart of that success.