Norman Lear, Phil Rosenthal, and Steve Levitan discuss their experiences in creating iconic family sitcoms, winning Emmy Awards, the process of writing and performing for multi-cam and cinematic productions, and taking creative risks in storytelling. They also emphasize the importance of sticking to one's creative vision, creating inclusive writers' rooms, and working with Norman Lear on theme songs. A delightful conversation filled with humor and insights into the world of family sitcoms.
Chemistry among actors can elevate a performance beyond what the creator can control.
Trusting instincts and sticking to your vision during casting can lead to a beloved ensemble.
Respecting network notes and maintaining a positive working relationship is important for writers.
Deep dives
The Magic of Casting
Casting plays a crucial role in the success of a show, and sometimes there is a magical chemistry that develops between the actors that elevates the performance. Norman Lear had the privilege of hiring four great actors for All in the Family, but the chemistry that developed among them was beyond his control.
Stick to Your Guns
Phil Rosenthal shared a story about sticking to his vision for Everybody Loves Raymond during the casting process, even when the network pushed for a different direction. He trusted his instincts and eventually found the perfect cast, creating the beloved ensemble we know today.
The Lesson of Quitting
Phil Rosenthal also shared the importance of standing your ground and knowing when to quit. He described a situation where he was at odds with the network over casting, and he chose to quit rather than compromise his vision. However, he ultimately learned the importance of sticking to his guns and was able to successfully cast the show.
Respect in the Writing Process
Steve Levitan emphasized the importance of respect in the writing process. He advised treating network notes with respect and addressing them in a professional manner, even if they don't align with the writer's vision. By showing respect and professionalism, writers can maintain a positive working relationship with network executives.
Creating a Successful Show
Creating a successful show involves giving the creators and writers the freedom to explore their ideas without interference from outsiders. Network notes can be valuable, but the ultimate goal is to create a show that represents the creative vision of the team. Taking risks and pushing boundaries can lead to some of the most memorable and impactful episodes, even if they are initially met with resistance. The importance of finding the right chemistry and camaraderie within the writers' room is crucial for maintaining a positive and productive working environment.
The Art of Rewriting and Collaboration
Rewriting is an integral part of the creative process. Nothing is written, it is rewritten. Rewriting helps refine and improve the scripts, ensuring that they consistently meet the show's standards and objectives. Collaborating with a talented team of writers allows for different perspectives and ideas to be brought to the table. The process involves finding the strengths of each writer and discovering what works best for the show. The challenge lies in finding the balance between staying true to the creative vision while also being open to making changes and adjustments based on feedback and collaboration.
Family Men: Masters of the Family Sitcom with Norman Lear (creator of All in The Family, The Jeffersons, Maude, One Day at a Time, Sanford and Son, Good Times, and MORE), Phil Rosenthal (creator of Everybody Loves Raymond), and Steve Levitan (co-creator of Modern Family).
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