Troy Evans Unleashes Controversial Truths About Amazon and Bosch: Legacy's Shocking End

Summary

Troy Evans said Bosch: Legacy’s cancelation was a surprise to the cast, and Crate and Barrel’s roles have been heavily reduced.
Troy Evans believes Amazon prioritizes profit over creativity, stifling the art in Hollywood.
The Ballard spin-off is allegedly trying to appeal to a younger demographic, leading Evans to make a controversial comment directed at Amazon.

The third and concluding season of “Bosch: Legacy” is merely a week away, leaving fans in a mix of excitement and sadness as they prepare for the series’ conclusion. Six months ago, Amazon made the decision to terminate the show, which has sparked a petition to revive it that currently boasts nearly 30,000 signatures. In an interview with Game Rant ahead of the final season, actor Troy Evans spoke candidly about his use of the F-word in a controversial outburst directed at Amazon and shared his thoughts on why the show was ultimately canceled.

Troy Evans openly discussed his much-loved character portrayal as Barrel Johnson in Bosch and Bosch: Legacy, along with his distinguished career spanning decades in the film industry as a renowned supporting actor. Evans is an exceptional narrator, and he didn’t shy away from sharing his insights about the business, also recounting his challenging past before entering the acting world. Just like captivating Hollywood tales, this one deserves to be heard in its entirety.

Troy Evans’ Life Before Acting Was Eventful And He Explains How A Key Meeting Back In The 70s Led To His Role In The Original Bosch Series

Did the original Bosch series give the impression that viewers were seeing authentic Los Angeles for the first time on-screen? I’d be interested to hear your thoughts.

As a devoted cinephile, I couldn’t be more thrilled that Amazon decided to film Bosch right here in Los Angeles instead of Vancouver. Frankly, it was essential that they capture the authentic essence of our city, from the iconic Musso and Frank’s to countless other Real L.A. landmarks.

I believe they did an outstanding job with the series, as the stories are truly captivating. Michael Connelly, a former crime reporter for the LA Times who later penned the Harry Bosch novels, has certainly come a long way. When he secured the deal with Amazon, he wisely reached out to Eric Overmyer, a writer I’ve known for quite some time, to oversee the television adaptation of Bosch.

Writing novels and creating TV shows are two entirely different beasts, so it was a smart move on Connelly’s part to bring Overmyer aboard. From what I’ve seen, it was a perfect fit, with Titus Welliver embodying Bosch in a way that resonates deeply with both Connelly and me. It’s evident that they share a strong bond, as Connelly has expressed his satisfaction with Welliver’s portrayal of the character.

Overall, I have immense respect for Michael Connelly’s writing prowess and was fortunate enough to work alongside him on set. He is not only an exceptional author but also a kind individual who always made me feel welcome.

You and Eric Overmyer go back a long way then?

Absolutely! Upon my arrival in California, I attended a small theater in San Maria. There, a young playwright named Eric Overmyer was present to watch a performance I was involved in during the summer of 1976. Fast forward 40 years, and it’s Eric who contacts me, stating he’s collaborating with Michael Connelly on a project, and he believes there could be a fitting role for me. Despite Crate and Barrel not playing significant roles in the books, Eric suggested to Michael Connelly that they should be included.

Was your career satisfactory before Bosch began, or did things take a historical turn after that point?

Indeed, I assumed I’d pick up some occasional work, and I believed Bosch referred to such projects. However, I didn’t anticipate working on more than a couple of episodes. To my surprise, I ended up working on over 70.

How did you first get into acting?

As a passionate moviegoer, let me clarify that not all Hollywood tales are subpar, and the story of “The Last Detail” is definitely an exception. Back in 1976, I was a college student who found myself drafted. My journey took me to Vietnam, and upon my return home, I realized something profound – I wasn’t the same person anymore. It seemed as if everyone in Montana had transformed into jerks overnight, but it was really me who had changed.

My initial plan was to return to school, earn a law degree, become governor of Montana, and eventually ascend to the presidency. Instead, I found myself owning a bar, which, as an alcoholic returning from Vietnam, wasn’t exactly the best career move. This bar played rock’n’roll music, making it the only one for a 100-mile radius. The business thrived, but with chaos being a constant companion. Every Saturday night would start early, and there’d be a key table in an elevated area where a group would argue and shatter glasses. I’d offer them a pitcher of beer, trying to promote harmony: “Let’s be happy and get along.” And they’d apologize, saying, “Sorry, Troy. We’re at fault.

It sounds like that 80s movie, Road House. What happened next?

In retrospect, when I returned to the bar, they were engaged in another altercation. Faced with this situation, I took the most logical course of action. I retrieved a 9mm handgun hidden beneath the cash register and aimed it at them haphazardly, causing multiple gunshots that echoed through the ceiling and walls. Miraculously, none of them were harmed. This pattern of behavior was simply a matter of luck. This series of events transpired over a span of two years. Authorities would summon me, reprimand me, and fine me $65, but I remained indifferent.

One day, a man in the bar attacked a woman, an individual I had personal animosity towards. The memory of this incident, which occurred half a century ago, is still vivid to me. At that moment, two words resonated within me: Far out. In response, I leaped over the counter and inflicted severe injuries upon him. He ended up with broken legs, a dislocated shoulder, and a fractured skull before being cast onto the street. However, this man was a lawyer. Consequently, I found myself incarcerated in Montana State Prison. It was during my time behind bars that I discovered my passion for acting. In a moment of insight, I realized that no one would ever question an actor about their criminal past. I requested a copy of Hamlet and, to this day, I still possess it, bearing the stamp ‘Inmate Evans is permitted to keep Hamlet in his cell.’

Wow. That’s quite a story. What was the bar called?

The Powder Keg. Very appropriate name.

Is it still open now?

No, it closed when I got arrested.

How long were you in prison for?

After spending three months at an alcohol treatment center for veterans, upon my return, I met with both my attorney and the prosecutor to discuss a plea bargain. As part of this agreement, I was to plead guilty in exchange for a six-year suspended sentence. However, during the hearing, instead of handing down the agreed-upon six years, the judge imposed a 40-year sentence on me. The prosecutor was arguing my case, stating that we had a plea agreement with this defendant. I was restrained and removed from the courtroom, only to be brought back later as the judge announced his intention to revise my sentence, giving me 40 years in prison plus an additional six years suspended.

No way.

As a cinephile looking back, I’ve come to realize that my grandfather, Troy Evans, defeated my grandfather three times in elections for Silver Bow County offices during the 1940s and early 50s. I thought it was a misfortune then, but now I see it as one of the most fortunate events in my life. If I had served that suspended sentence, I might have only lasted weeks, months, or even years before giving in to temptation and drinking again.

An unexpected twist occurred during my incarceration at Montana State Prison. The sentencing board reviewed my case after two long years, and I was granted release. This timing couldn’t have been more perfect, allowing me just enough time to regain my bearings before revisiting my academic pursuits in acting. The rest, as they say, is history.

The parole officer who showed such interest in my case may have had a unique perspective. Besides the professional obligation, he was actually my brother. My grandfather held a personal grudge against him, and his interest in my case was likely rooted in family ties.

That is a fascinating story.

Absolutely. If pressed to identify my true vocation, I wouldn’t say actor. Instead, I consider myself a professional storyteller – it’s been my life’s work. I weave tales. Spending two years in a maximum-security prison in Montana certainly provided me with a wealth of stories, friend.

I can imagine. I like that term ‘storyteller’ because it can be anything. Do you play music?

During my high school years, I was part of a band named Gangrene that played rock ‘n’ roll tunes. We used to cover popular bands like the Rolling Stones and the Beatles. Our band was quite skilled, with all members being proficient musicians, except for me on the guitar – I was simply awful. During one performance, we reached the guitar solo part, and I was letting it rip on the guitar. The saxophonist shouted at me, “What are you playing?” To which I replied, “I’m improvising based on my feelings.” He retorted, “Well, find some chords in B flat, you idiot!” They were the most content individuals imaginable when I was drafted into military service.

I’ve heard about a project of yours called The Montana Tales. What exactly is that?

In this conversation, you’ve sampled some of them. I shared these experiences during my initial theater role in California. Given my background that included visits to Vietnam, a psychiatric facility, and a prison, my narratives were somewhat unique. One evening, I gathered everyone and spun yarns that later evolved into the Montana Tales.

And you go on stage and perform it?

Yeah, I just sit on stage and talk for a couple of hours.

Are you still doing this now?

I haven’t done it for a while. In recent years, I’ve done it for fundraisers.

Save Bosch: Legacy Key Points:

Sign the petition to Save Bosch: Legacy HERE
Spread the word by visiting Bosch: Legacy’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts, and tell other fans about the cancelation, and link to the petition.

The Cancelation Of Bosch: Legacy Came As A Surprise To All The Cast And Crew And Evans Explains Why He Thinks It Was Axed

Switching topics now to Bosch: Legacy. Fans were disappointed when Amazon chose to cancel it, as they felt the series didn’t seem to be reaching its conclusion. They lamented that Harry Bosch wouldn’t get a fitting resolution. What are your thoughts on this situation?

Approximately a quarter-century ago, I got the chance to collaborate on a film titled “Article 99” alongside Eli Wallach, Kiefer Sutherland, and Ray Liotta. This was a humorous yet grim depiction set in a veterans’ hospital. Eli Wallach portrayed one of the patients, as did I. The movie “Article 99” marked an early milestone in my career, but it didn’t lead to a stardom that I’ve never really achieved. Many people who appreciate my work might not even recognize my name.

The character actor

Legacy. A team of young, ambitious, and less creatively-minded individuals are running Amazon, and they lack a true appreciation for creativity. They don’t even seem to understand where it comes from or how it works.

That’s very interesting. How would you sum up Crate and Barrel’s role in Bosch and Bosch: Legacy?

I don’t approach this subjectively, but I must express my admiration for Crate and Barrel in the context of their story. To me, it’s clear that Harry Bosch is an intensely devoted individual, and when he’s on a case, his entire attention is fixated on it round-the-clock until he apprehends the perpetrator. In contrast, Crate and Barrel are diligent detectives who manage to maintain a balance between their work and personal lives, as seen in one episode where they are shown relaxing at home with their dog and enjoying some leisure time. This is something that Harry Bosch would not do.

Bosch would be taking the case files home. He never stops.

Many individuals perceived Crate and Barrel as mere comic relief, but that’s far from the truth. I’d like to shed light on Greg Cummins, a truly exceptional talent who significantly enriched the production. If I were to single out one moment that I hold dear, having spent half a century in acting, not a bad run at all, still going strong, it would be the scene involving a serial killer targeting male escorts. Does that ring a bell?

Yes, Bosch season 1. Raynard Waits.

In a pivotal interrogation room moment from an early “Bosch” episode, Greg and I entered together with the suspect already in custody. We grilled him with questions, passing the dialogue back and forth effortlessly. A gathering of cast and crew had come to observe us film this scene, and when we wrapped it up, another actor approached us, astonished, asking how long we’d been working together, to which we replied, “Only 15 minutes.

Are you kidding? So you two just had this thing from the start?

From the start.

It’s true that chemistry can be incredible. I completely concur, as there’s a lot more depth to Crate and Barrel than just humor, and genuine Bosch enthusiasts acknowledge this fact.

I totally agree with the statement that chemistry is fascinating. Beyond its comic relief, there’s a whole lot more to appreciate about Crate and Barrel, and true Bosch fans recognize this.

As a dedicated film enthusiast who’s been in the loop for quite some time, I’ve known many of the folks from before ‘Bosch’. It’s heartbreaking to see Crate and Barrel, characters adored by audiences, now facing this predicament. The show’s charm was partly due to them, and the police force had a soft spot for these characters too. Instead of acknowledging their popularity and nurturing it, Amazon seemed to take offense because they don’t align with their target demographic – young viewers. In an ironic twist, our commitment to delivering quality content made us the adversary in their eyes.

Why might some members of the cast have been hesitant at first to publicly comment on the cancellation of Bosch: Legacy?

They prioritize their professions over potential controversy. I enjoy the liberty to express myself openly. I’m 77 years old, and I’m content with retirement if it comes. I have other aspects of life to focus on. It seems that if they were to produce the Troy Evans story, they wouldn’t consider me for the role. What am I missing out on?

That makes more sense.

In essence, Hollywood can be quite an enigma. I recall attending an audition where they sought a performer reminiscent of Barry Corbin. Not long after, I bumped into Barry himself, and shared with him that I had been considered for a role he might have landed. They were looking for a Barry Corbyn type. He chuckled and said, “Oh Troy, I’m doubtful. I had an audition a few weeks back where they too were seeking a Barry Corbin type. I gave it my best shot, but when I finished, they told me, ‘We’re truly sorry, but what we require is someone who bears a closer resemblance to you than you do yourself.'” Thus, casting in Hollywood.

Evans Confirms Crate And Barrel’s Appearance In The Ballard Spin-Off And Also Explains What Led To That Controversial F-Bomb Directed At Amazon

It seems the Renee Ballard spin-off’s cold case team might not consist of retired detectives, as suggested, given the actors they’ve chosen. Could Crate and Barrel make a suitable setting for Ballard’s cold case unit? Are you connected with the Ballard spin-off production?

1) They seem to have cast younger actors. I can’t verify this as I haven’t seen any scripts, and I was only on the Ballard set for a single day, where we filmed just one scene. That was all there was during the Ballard season. A woman named Mitzi Roberts, who has been an advisor on Bosch throughout, ran the cold case unit for the LAPD until her recent retirement. She’s a wonderful person. In fact, she was the only active LAPD employee in that unit. The rest were retired officers working on cases they hadn’t solved before.

The white whale, as Harry Bosch would call it

The new approach for this storyline is different from what you usually see in murder mysteries. Instead of having retired officers as the main characters, Renee Ballard works with a group of younger associates. This team focuses on unsolved cases, which is a departure from the norm. Furthermore, Amazon has made it clear that they don’t want this series to resemble Crate and Barrel in any way. The reason for this isn’t because we’re unpopular, but rather because we’ve been too successful, which feels unfair.

Many fans I talk to seem to agree that there’s plenty more for us to discover at Crate and Barrel.

Producers told me years ago, they never got a letter that didn’t mention Crate and Barrel.

Could you help me understand your thoughts on the criticism you expressed towards Amazon regarding their promotion for Bosch: Legacy’s final season? Is there a specific reason why you found it subpar?

It was a two-word response, I believe.

Indeed, the audience took notice of it, and moreover, it sparked a discussion on whether Crate and Barrel were being overshadowed. Someone felt compelled to voice their opinion about the evolving Bosch universe and provide an honest perspective.

It’s understandable that some individuals might choose not to speak up, given the circumstances. After all, at their advanced age, it’s not surprising if they aren’t planning to work anymore. Finding employment opportunities for someone of their generation isn’t always easy.

It seems logical for individuals to prioritize their careers, but the entertainment industry in Hollywood, particularly Los Angeles, is experiencing a critical phase as productions are relocating. Given the circumstances, it feels necessary for someone to voice their concerns, as the current state of affairs appears unfair.

I find myself reflecting on Eli Wallach. The film industry we see today is a business, and it has evolved significantly over time. Those who founded this industry were often difficult individuals, but they had an undeniable passion for movies. However, the current generation seems less invested in the art form. To them, it’s just another product. For instance, studios like Warner Brothers are dismantling their sound stages and setting up shop in places like Las Vegas and Florida, where labor protections aren’t as strict as they are in Los Angeles.

I have a soft spot for TV series and films shot in Los Angeles, where I adore the setting. The current predicament of jobless individuals in LA’s entertainment sector is particularly challenging. It’s unfortunate that Amazon has decided to scrap shows like Bosch: Legacy, even though it continues to captivate viewers and boasts a dedicated fan base – this move doesn’t bode well for the industry.

Historically, approximately 90% of actors have been unemployed. I initially believed that everyone in this field worked only 10% of the time, but it turns out that reality is quite different. In actuality, about 10% are always working while a staggering 90% rarely find employment. It’s a tough hustle.

Troy Evans Thinks Amazon Is Stifling Creativity In Hollywood And Has One Final Message For Them

In the final episode of the original Bosch series, the creative team was given an opportunity to conclude the story appropriately. However, a spin-off titled Legacy emerged, leaving most of the cast members behind except for Harry Bosch, Honey Chandler, and Maddie Bosch. It seems that Crate and Barrel appeared less frequently as recurring characters. Earlier conversations hinted at contract issues following the end of Bosch.

Indeed, they replaced the caterer and several crew members due to budgetary reasons after being involved with the series for six to seven years. The production was seamless and spotless, making it a well-oiled machine. Union protections ensured the cast remained consistent during their tenure on Bosch. However, if Harry Bosch were to retire, he could transition into a private detective, maintaining the essence of Bosch. By renaming it Bosch: Legacy, Amazon essentially refreshed the cast and crew. Upon visiting the Ballard set, I found myself unfamiliar with most of the faces, reflecting this shift. In essence, Eli Wallach embodies both artistic creativity and shrewd business acumen.

Regrettably, it seems the company prioritizes profits over creativity, with dedicated, diligent team members often not receiving the recognition they deserve.

For seven years they remained loyal, but Amazon unexpectedly ended their partnership to cut costs. The cast of Bosch: Legacy, however, were unaware that the series would be terminated. They believed there would be further installments and the Connelly universe was set to grow larger.

What do you think Amazon is really up to with the Ballard spin-off?

Amazon is aiming to solve the cold cases in Ballard with a fresh approach by involving younger investigators, hoping to attract new audiences this way. I took the portrayal of detectives on Bosch and Bosch: Legacy very seriously, feeling it was my responsibility to maintain their dignity. Essentially, here’s the gist: people who love Crate and Barrel already have Amazon Prime, so Amazon isn’t particularly concerned about it. They make a decent amount annually from two million subscribers. Their goal is to gain an additional two million younger viewers, but they care little for creativity or artistry. If they could generate the same revenue by sending out shark loot bags filled with mushrooms instead, that’s exactly what they would do.

Have you got any final words for Amazon?

Here’s my tribute to Amazon Prime: (Troy gives the V-Sign gesture) F**k Amazon!

Sign The Petition To Save Bosch: Legacy Here

2025-03-20 20:12

Troy Evans Unleashes Controversial Truths About Amazon and Bosch: Legacy’s Shocking End