Dan Levy, the creator of the beloved comedy series 'Schitt's Creek', is back with a new project, 'Big Mistakes'. In this exclusive interview, Levy discusses the inspiration behind the show, his casting choices, and the impact of his past experiences on his creative process.
Levy reveals that the idea for 'Big Mistakes' stemmed from his fear of being trapped, a theme that resonates with his own life experiences. He explains, 'I like my freedom! The show explores the consequences of a New Jersey pastor and his sister, a teacher, becoming entangled with organized crime, a scenario that Levy finds both humorous and relatable.
One of the most intriguing aspects of 'Big Mistakes' is the casting. Levy successfully convinced Laurie Metcalf to play their mother, a role that he believes will be a standout. He shares, 'Even if everything else fails, she will be great.' Taylor Ortega, who plays his sister, is also a key part of the dynamic, with Levy praising their on-screen chemistry.
Despite the success of 'Schitt's Creek', Levy approaches 'Big Mistakes' with a fresh perspective. He emphasizes, 'I wouldn't let it in. I don't think you can. And you really have to lock the door on that and almost accept the fact that, if that is the big crown jewel, fabulous. How wonderful! Everything else has to be something that makes me feel good.'
Levy's journey in the entertainment industry began with his time as an MTV VJ in Toronto, where he honed his writing, editing, and production skills. This experience, he believes, prepared him for the challenges of show-running 'Schitt's Creek'.
The name 'Schitt's Creek' itself was a result of his father's determination. Levy recalls, 'Everybody did! You either loved it or you hated it, but it was what it was. It was exactly what the story was. What else do you name that show?'
The show's setting in the fictional town of Schitt's Creek, now known as Goodwood, Ontario, has become a beloved part of pop culture. Levy reflects on the impact of the show on the town, saying, 'At first, when you bring a TV show to a small town, and then tell them all that the town is called Schitt's Creek, you risk offending people. And everyone was so nice.'
The death of Catherine O'Hara, who played the matriarch Moira Rose, has left a void in the 'Schitt's Creek' family. Levy acknowledges the emotional impact, saying, 'We had the best time. We had the best time. She had the best time. … It's an amazing thing to be a part of something that she loved so much.'
As 'Big Mistakes' prepares for its debut on Netflix, Levy invites fans to explore the show's unique blend of humor and relatable themes. He encourages viewers to immerse themselves in the story, saying, 'I just know that if I ever were tasked with helping a criminal organization, I would be the biggest liability.'
With his unique storytelling and exceptional casting, Dan Levy continues to captivate audiences, leaving his mark on the world of television comedy.
