Alex Winter explains why he wanted to humanise a controversial figure in Primetime

Alex Winter discusses playing Bill Conradt in 'Primetime' and why the film explores the human side of difficult cases

Actor Alex Winter has explained why he wanted to portray Texas district attorney Bill Conradt with empathy in Primetime, the upcoming film directed by Lance Oppenheim.

Winter, best known for playing Bill S. Preston in the Bill & Ted trilogy, was selected to play Conradt, whose story became connected to the controversial television programme To Catch a Predator.

Speaking to Rolling Stone on October 25, Winter said he was drawn to the film’s examination of media, internet culture and society’s treatment of people accused of wrongdoing.

The actor explained that he wanted to present Conradt as a human being without excusing his actions. To prepare for the role, he researched Conradt’s background, working environment and life, speaking with district attorneys and other people familiar with the region where he worked.

Winter described the case as tragic and criticised the way television coverage can prioritise ratings over a nuanced understanding of the people involved.

He also discussed the film’s wider message, arguing that presenting people as human beings does not mean overlooking harmful behaviour. He believes that understanding the people involved is important when considering both those accused of wrongdoing and those who have experienced abuse.

Primetime features Robert Pattinson portraying To Catch a Predator host Chris Hansen. The cast also includes Creed Bratton, Jonathan Lipnicki, Phoebe Bridgers and former NBC executive Jeff Zucker.

Beyond the film, Winter reflected on his Broadway experience in Waiting for Godot, where he performed alongside longtime friend Keanu Reeves. He described the production as one of the greatest experiences of his life and said it renewed his interest in theatre.

Winter is also preparing for another stage production, Incident at Vichy, planned for New York in May, while continuing to develop future film projects.