Joel McHale plays Kodiak in "Yellowjackets" Season 3

In the latest episode of "Yellowjackets," Joel McHale takes on the role of Kodiak, an outdoor guide who ventures into the wilderness. He guides two scientists, played by Ashley Sutton and Nelson Franklin, who are there to film frogs. However, their journey leads to a shocking encounter with survivors of a plane crash. The episode features a tense moment as the scientists stumble upon the survivors engaged in cannibalism. Things get deadly when Kodiak, using his crossbow, injures one of the survivors before he and his companion flee. The episode ends with a cliffhanger, leaving Kodiak’s fate uncertain as he teeters on the edge of a cliff. In an interview, McHale shared that he was excited to join the cast after meeting co-creator Ashley Lyle at a concert. He described keeping the role a secret as nerve-wracking. Before joining the show, he was already a fan and appreciated its unique blend of dark themes and humor. McHale enjoys the character's complex nature. Kodiak is depicted as a mountain man who takes pleasure in guiding inexperienced people through the wilderness, emphasizing the life-and-death stakes of their situation. He fondly recalls filming in British Columbia, especially the night shoots in the spooky woods. Overall, McHale expressed gratitude for being part of "Yellowjackets" and relishes the thrill of portraying a character that fits into the show's compelling narrative. New episodes stream on Paramount+ and air on Showtime.