Ball says the idea of a vampire theocracy came from watching Republican primaries with Bachman and Santorum, "and asking what would it be like to have a theocracy in America – which is way more terrifying than any fictional monster could ever be." He says he then questioned about what if there was a vampire bible, religion and organization.
"Chris Meloni comes in, he is the guardian of the blood. Supposedly they have a vial of blood of the first vampire – like a Catholic icon. The governing body of vampires is like the Catholic church plus the Supreme Court for vampires. But it’s a very secret organization."
For more background on the secretive Authority, check out this new clip about the group from HBO and a preview of episode three, airing June 24 (after the jump)
-Aaron Sagers
Episode 5.03: “Whatever I Am, You Made Me”
SUNDAY, JUNE 24 (9:00-10:00 p.m.) Bill (Stephen Moyer) and Eric (Alexander Skarsgard) barter for their lives with the Authority Chancellors and their leader, Roman (Christopher Meloni). Salome (Valentina Cervi) and Roman enlist a new ally in the face of Russell’s return. Sookie (Anna Paquin) goes to Fangtasia to ask for help from Pam (Kristin Bauer van Straten), who is still caught up in her memories of Eric and the strange murders at the Comstock Brothel. Andy (Chris Bauer)’s dalliance with Holly (Lauren Bowles) comes back to bite him in the butt; later, he’s visited by Gordon (Steve Rankin) and Barbara Pelt (Linda Purl), who are searching for Debbie. Jason (Ryan Kwanten) bumps into an old high school teacher, but their reunion brings up conflicting feelings. Written by Raelle Tucker; directed by David Petrarca.