Speaking with Deadline, Simu Liu said the project fulfilled a long-held dream of playing a super spy. What pulled him in immediately was the show’s premise: a near-future world where intelligence agencies wrestle with surveillance, technology, and control. “It felt like five minutes into the future,” Liu explained, adding that the themes feel especially relevant right now.
Created by Thomas Brandon and streaming on Peacock, The Copenhagen Test stars Liu as Alexander Hale, an elite intelligence agent whose mind is hacked by an unknown enemy. Instead of shutting him down, his agency makes a risky choice — they keep Hale in the field and use the hack to trace its source.
Beyond the high-concept thrills, Liu says the character’s personal story mattered just as much. Alexander comes from an immigrant background and works in an environment where he’s constantly questioned and underestimated. Liu said that struggle felt deeply familiar and authentic, and something many people from immigrant families will recognize.
As both star and executive producer, Liu sees the show as a chance to balance big, universal ideas with cultural specificity. He says he’s proud to help bring stories to the screen that feel personal while still appealing to a wide audience.
A major twist in the series involves fellow agent Michelle, played by Melissa Barrera, who is assigned to pose as Alexander’s girlfriend as part of the mission. Liu joked that their fake romance sometimes feels like a reality dating show, even comparing it to Love Island.
“They know they’re being watched, so they’re playing it up,” Liu said, noting the many layers involved in the relationship. He praised Barrera as a strong scene partner who made the dynamic both fun and believable.
With sharp social themes, high stakes, and a playful edge, The Copenhagen Test gives Liu a chance to live out his spy fantasy — while also telling a story that feels timely, thoughtful, and personal.
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