FX’s The Shards ended its first season with a shocking murder and a mystery that leaves almost every member of Bret’s inner circle under suspicion. The eight-episode adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’ 2023 novel, developed by Ryan Murphy, follows a wealthy group of young people in 1980s Los Angeles whose relationships become increasingly complicated by secrets, ambition and the presence of a serial killer known as The Trawler.
In the finale, “Stairway to Heaven,” producer Terry Schaffer, played by Wes Bentley, is murdered, leaving the identity of his attacker unresolved. The final moments show the characters waiting for police questioning while The Go-Go’s “Our Lips Are Sealed” plays. Among them is Steven Reinhardt, Terry’s longtime assistant, played by Jordan Roth, whose suspicious smile adds another layer to the cliffhanger.
Steven has spent much of the season as an overlooked figure within Terry’s world, despite believing he has the talent and knowledge to become a producer himself. Roth explained that he approached Steven as someone constantly watching, collecting information and keeping track of other people’s secrets. That strategic nature becomes particularly important after Terry’s death, as Steven emerges as one of the characters who could potentially be connected to the murder.
The character’s frustration comes from years of being underestimated and ignored. Roth said that experience can manifest as rage, scheming and strategy, but Steven also repeatedly demonstrates resilience. He continues presenting ideas and trying to prove himself, hoping that each new opportunity will finally make others recognize his abilities.
Roth also found a personal connection to Steven’s desire to be seen. Although the actor has built a successful career as a Broadway producer and theater executive, he said acting had always remained an ambition. His television debut as Steven allowed him to explore the experience of knowing he could act while struggling to find a way back into the profession.
Steven’s distinctive appearance was also developed with Murphy, drawing inspiration from European fashion and musicians David Sylvian and David Bowie. His bold style contrasts with the other queer characters in the series, many of whom conceal parts of themselves. For Steven, being seen is part of his identity.
The finale leaves Steven’s future deliberately uncertain. In Ellis’ novel, The Trawler’s identity is never definitively revealed, while the television adaptation expands the story and leaves room for additional seasons. Roth said Murphy has already discussed more of Steven’s storyline with him and expressed hope that the character will return.
Roth is also planning to continue acting alongside his producing career, with Broadway projects including Galileo on his schedule. For now, however, Steven remains at the center of one of The Shards’ biggest unanswered questions: whether his ambition and resentment have finally pushed him beyond the line he has spent the season approaching.
All eight episodes of The Shards are streaming on Hulu.
