In the world of television, few shows navigate the production process smoothly, but "Nobody Wants This" is a remarkable exception. This Jewish rom-com, featuring Kristen Bell as an agnostic sex-and-relationship podcaster and Adam Brody as a laid-back rabbi, faced significant challenges during its production. The first season was plagued by delays, scrapped episodes, and last-minute script changes, leading to doubts about its tone and direction. “There were a lot of different visions,” explained Erin Foster, a first-time creator and showrunner, who found herself defending her vision amidst the chaos. On September 26, 2024, the show premiered its ten-episode first season on Netflix, swiftly dispelling any lingering concerns.
Upon its release, "Nobody Wants This" received rave reviews from outlets like The New York Times and New York Magazine, with comments such as “Compulsively watchable!” and “Instantly combustible chemistry!” The show quickly climbed the ranks, spending six consecutive weeks on Netflix’s Top 10 list. By the end of the year, it had garnered an impressive 57 million views and received nominations from major awards, including the Emmys, Golden Globes, SAG Awards, and Writers Guild Awards. Brody remarked on the cultural penetration of the show, noting that Halloween costumes inspired by its characters were a clear sign of its impact.
Looking ahead to the second season, set to premiere on October 23, the production team underwent a significant reshuffle. Veteran producers Jenni Konner and Bruce Eric Kaplan, both known for their work on HBO’s Girls, joined the series to help regain momentum. The second season benefited from a cohesive writers room and aligned producers, marking a stark contrast to the tumultuous first season.
Half a decade prior, Foster was disillusioned with Hollywood. Having struggled as an actress and writer, she found herself at a crossroads. After a series of challenges, including the cancellation of her reality TV parody "Barely Famous," she sold a semi-autobiographical sitcom pilot to Fox in 2018, which ultimately did not materialize. However, her personal life flourished when she met a Jewish music executive, Simon Tikhman, and began the conversion process to Judaism. This pivotal moment inspired her to create "Nobody Wants This," initially titled Shiksa, based on her experiences.
Foster’s journey to the screen was not without its hurdles. The script found initial resistance, but Tracey Pakosta at Netflix recognized its potential and greenlit the project, albeit with the condition of securing a higher-profile lead. Foster approached Bell, who enthusiastically embraced the role, even studying Foster’s mannerisms for authenticity. The casting process was equally challenging, with the team initially considering Nick Kroll before ultimately deciding on Brody. Bell’s unwavering support for Brody played a crucial role in finalizing the cast, setting the stage for their undeniable on-screen chemistry.
The title of the show itself became a point of contention, with Netflix executives favoring a more accessible name over "Shiksa." After several iterations, "Nobody Wants This" was chosen, leading to concerns about its reception. The production faced additional challenges, including script revisions and concerns over structural coherence. Despite early excitement, the cast and crew grappled with uncertainty as they navigated the production landscape. “I was like, ‘What the fuck? The show is so good. What is the problem?’” Brody recalled, reflecting on the chaotic environment.
Despite the tumultuous journey, "Nobody Wants This" surpassed expectations upon release, captivating audiences worldwide. The chemistry between Bell and Brody was particularly praised, leading to an influx of memes and social media buzz. With season two already in the works, the cast was eager to build on the success of the first season. “We’re going to give the people what they want,” Foster promised, as the team prepared to deliver more of the engaging storytelling that resonated with fans.
As "Nobody Wants This" approaches its second season, the cast and crew reflect on their journey thus far. The camaraderie among the actors and the new management team fosters a creative environment that encourages innovation. With plans for a potential third season already in discussion, the future looks bright for this unlikely hit. The blend of humor, romance, and cultural commentary has firmly established "Nobody Wants This" as a significant player in modern television.
