Emilia Jones says it was a compliment that fans did not recognize her from the Oscar-winning film CODA while she played Robbie’s niece Maeve in Task. The British actress noted that many viewers only realized it was her several episodes into the show.
“I went to the Rangers game last night and people didn’t recognize me with the mullet or without it,” Jones said. “It’s such a compliment. Acting is about disappearing into characters, and that’s what I aimed for.”
Jones also spoke about filming the adrenaline-filled finale. She praised the energy on set during the climax, sharing that co-star Sam Keeley encouraged her to “just go for it.” The two slightly improvised their fight scene, creating a sequence that was both challenging and exhilarating.
The actress reflected on her character Maeve’s emotional journey. “Maeve is devastated when she learns Robbie is dead,” Jones said. She noted Maeve had long struggled with her uncle’s risky and morally complex actions, but recognized that his heart was always in the right place.
Jones described building the relationship between Maeve and Robbie with Mark Ruffalo as a highlight. “Tom is such a giving actor. We spent time together outside filming, visiting museums and laughing. That trust made it easier to portray tough emotions.”
Jones also discussed her connection with the child actors on set. Creator Brad Ingelsby asked her during the audition if she liked kids, which made sense once she read the script. “I tried to make the set a special experience. For Ben Doherty, who plays Sam, I bought him a Polaroid camera to create a scrapbook of memories.”
She recalled working with Oliver Eisenson, who played Wyatt, noting that his energy often led to improvised scenes. “Wyatt loved saying funny lines, and we let him do his thing while filming. He was perfect for the role.”
When asked about Maeve’s future, Jones said she hopes the character is supported and able to live a happy life with the children. “Maeve has put herself last for so long. I like to think she’s growing as a person while enjoying life with Harper and Wyatt.”
Jones acknowledged that CODA was a career-changing experience. “CODA was a whirlwind. I had never signed or sung before, but director Sian Hader took a risk, and I’m forever grateful. CODA led to Task and enriched my life. Maeve came at a time I really needed her character.”
Finally, Jones shared hopes for Task’s future. “I’ve heard it might become an anthology. Brad Ingelsby writes such layered characters, and it would be a shame not to continue exploring this world.”
