
The Writers Panel Leslye Headland (Russian Doll; The Acolyte)
Nov 11, 2025
Writer-director Leslye Headland, known for The Acolyte and Russian Doll, dives into her unique creative journey and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. She discusses balancing her vision with studio demands, the collaborative process with an esteemed team, and the character-driven approach of her work. Leslye also shares insights on pitching projects, her thoughts on auteurism, and future challenges she hopes to tackle in horror. Plus, find out how YouTube video essays influence her filmmaking!
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Originating Through A Seven-Play Challenge
- Leslye Headland started writing seven plays to create work she could direct and to learn fast by finishing drafts.
- Those plays earned her an agent, manager, and her first TV writing job on Terriers.
Authenticity Beats Manufactured Style
- Authenticity and strong individuality attract attention more than deliberate stylistic tricks.
- Headland says her abrasive, confrontational early plays stood out because they were honestly hers.
From Fan To Star Wars Creator
- Headland loved Star Wars her whole life and actively sought a meeting with Kathleen Kennedy after Russian Doll's success.
- She developed The Acolyte at Lucasfilm, balancing personal voice with studio collaboration and compromises.





