Gerald McRaney Describes Portrayal of Randolph Murdaugh III in Hulu Series

LOS ANGELES — November 23, 2025 — Gerald McRaney, who portrayed Randolph Murdaugh III in the Hulu limited series “Murdaugh: Death in the Family,” characterized the role as that of “a man who had no soul,” reflecting on the complex and dark nature of the character within the infamous Murdaugh family story.

The series dramatizes the events surrounding the Murdaugh family, a prominent legal dynasty in South Carolina, and the criminal investigations that have drawn national attention. McRaney’s role as Randolph Murdaugh III, the patriarch of the family, required him to embody a figure whose actions and legacy have been scrutinized amid allegations and tragedies involving his descendants.

In interviews, McRaney discussed the challenges of portraying a man whose public persona contrasted sharply with the darker realities revealed through legal and media investigations. He emphasized the emotional and psychological depth necessary to depict a character who, in his view, lacked empathy and moral conscience.

The Hulu series has drawn viewers by exploring the intricate and often troubling dynamics of the Murdaugh family, focusing on themes of power, privilege, and accountability. McRaney’s performance has been noted for its intensity and nuanced approach to a figure central to the unfolding narrative.

Officials and critics have highlighted how the show sheds light on the broader implications of the Murdaugh case, which has involved multiple criminal charges, including murder and financial crimes, against members of the family. The portrayal of Randolph Murdaugh III serves as a foundational element in understanding the family’s influence and the subsequent unraveling of their reputation.

McRaney’s comments about his character underscore the complexities faced by actors when interpreting real-life figures involved in controversial and ongoing legal matters. His description of Randolph Murdaugh III as “a man who had no soul” reflects a critical perspective on the moral failures attributed to the family’s leadership.

The series continues to attract attention as new developments in the Murdaugh case emerge, with audiences and legal observers closely monitoring both the factual proceedings and their dramatized representation. McRaney’s involvement adds a notable dimension to the public’s engagement with the story, blending entertainment with a sobering examination of justice and family legacy.