Dan Levy on ‘Big Mistakes’ and Life After ‘Schitt’s Creek’
Recently spotted filming his new sitcom, “Big Mistakes,” in New Jersey, Dan Levy, the creative force behind the beloved “Schitt’s Creek,” shared insights into his latest venture. Levy revealed the show’s premise stemmed from a personal fear: “It came from a fear that I have of being trapped. I like my freedom!”
“Big Mistakes” centers around a New Jersey pastor and his sister, a teacher, who find themselves entangled with organized crime. Levy humorously admitted, “I just know that if I ever were tasked with helping a criminal organization, I would be the biggest liability.” He believes this inherent vulnerability provides a strong comedic foundation.
Casting Coups and Creative Freedom
The series boasts a talented cast, including Taylor Ortega as his sister, with Levy praising their instant chemistry: “It’s just chemistry. You either have it with somebody or you don’t, and she is brilliant.” However, he considers landing Laurie Metcalf to play their mother his biggest achievement. “I knew that even if everything else fails, she will be great.”
Watch the trailer for ‘Big Mistakes’
Co-created with Rachel Sennott for Netflix, “Big Mistakes” marks Levy’s first project since the critically acclaimed “Schitt’s Creek.” When asked about the pressure to replicate the success of his previous work, Levy was resolute: “No. 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.”
From MTV VJ to Showrunner
Interestingly, Levy’s journey into television writing began unexpectedly. Before “Schitt’s Creek,” he spent eight years as an MTV VJ in Canada. While self-deprecating about his early on-screen skills – “I don’t think I was a good VJ. Because I was too nervous, and I had social anxiety, and my job was to interview people” – he credits the experience with providing invaluable training. “I learned to write for myself. I learned to edit. I learned to produce. I learned to be in front of the camera. It prepared me for the totality of what it is to show-run.”
“Schitt’s Creek” was developed with his father, Eugene Levy, and Martin Mull, who came up with the show’s iconic name. Despite initial skepticism from others, Levy and his father stood firm. “Everybody did [tell him not to call the show that]! You either loved it or you hated it, but it was what it was. It was exactly what the story was.”
Remembering Catherine O’Hara and the Legacy of ‘Schitt’s Creek’
The show’s success was significantly shaped by the performance of Catherine O’Hara as Moira Rose. Levy fondly recalls hoping a particular scene – the fruit wine commercial – would go viral, and his wish came true. He describes working with O’Hara as “awe-inspiring.”
A recent visit to Goodwood, Ontario – the real-life location of Schitt’s Creek – brought back poignant memories. The Rose Apothecary has been transformed into Goodwood Mercantile, selling local crafts and “Schitt’s Creek” memorabilia, and a condolence book for O’Hara remains available. Sadly, O’Hara’s passing has ruled out any possibility of a “Schitt’s Creek” sequel. “No. We can’t,” Levy stated, visibly moved. “It’s tough. It’s tough going back.”
Levy shared heartfelt memories of O’Hara, expressing gratitude for their time together. “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. You know, it feels very special.” He also playfully acknowledged her unexpected internet savvy: “Listen, for someone who is not on the Internet, she knew how to meme!”
Watch an extended interview with Dan Levy on CBS News
Story produced by David Rothman. Editor: Jason Schmidt.
