Behind the Scenes: Unlocking the Quirky Comedic Chemistry of Netflix’s “Nobody Wants This”

The hit TV comedy series Nobody Wants This has quickly become a case of “Everybody Wants This” in this original comedy.

It has captivated audiences and critics alike earning nominations for a Golden Globe and Critics’ Choice Award, and being named one of AFI’s top Television Programs of the Year. Cast members Kristen Bell, Adam Brody, Justine Lupe, Timothy Simons, and Jackie Tohn, along with series creator Erin Foster, gathered for a lively panel discussion, offering a hilarious peek behind the curtain of their show and a lesson in using Foster’s life as the lifeblood of her comedy writing.

The Heart of the Romantic Comedy Writing: Relatable Relationships and Unfiltered Honesty

Nobody Wants This is loosely based on creator Sarah’s own life and relationship with her husband, Simon. When asked about translating her personal experiences into relatable comedy, Sarah admits a long-held struggle. “I was very uninspired by my relationship for a long time… But we’re very happy now.” She initially found it difficult to joke about happiness, a stark contrast to her past writing, which often “demolished” her relationships – both healthy and unhealthy.

“When you’re in a bad relationship, it’s great because everything is that person’s fault… And then you get together with a healthy person who’s well-adjusted and they force you to be a good partner,” Foster continues.

An eye-opening realization shifted her perspective: “There’s actually something very interesting about writing about an adult healthy relationship because it’s very hard to be in one.” She elaborates on the challenge of becoming the “best version of yourself” with Rabbi Noah. This offers a fresh comedic lens on the complexities of mature, stable love.

Character Deep Dive: What Draws Actors to the Role?

Jackie Tohn, who plays Esther, shared a relatable experience for many actors. Upon reading the script for Esther, she felt an instant connection. “This woman’s snarky Jewish mouth comes right out of my face,” she exclaims. A delightful piece of trivia emerged: Kristen Bell (Joanne), an executive producer, had initially pushed for Tohn, her best friend, to audition, secretly knowing she was the perfect fit despite concerns about nepotism. Tohn’s persistence in holding out for the role of Esther, even when offered another character, spoke volumes about her suitability to be Joanne and Noah’s foil.

Kristen Bell is drawn to the “hyper realistic comedy” tone of Sarah’s writing, likening it to “Seinfeld” for its ability to “chomp on small details and make a meal of it.”

Erin Foster. Photo by Presley Ann/ Getty Images for Netflix

Bell also highlights the relatability of Joanne’s struggles with dating in her 40s, a challenge many of her friends face. “They’re on dating apps. They hate it. They ask, ‘Is this ever going to happen for me? I feel old, but I feel young.’ I was very attracted to representing that.”

Her willingness to embrace a character “so different than anything I’d ever done before” underscores her commitment to challenging herself as an actress.

Adam Brody, who plays Rabbi Noah, admits to initially wincing at the “religiosity” of the role, but quickly grew to appreciate it as a “fun challenge” that broadened his knowledge. That’s what actors do, right? He also welcomed the opportunity to work with Kristen Bell, calling her an “amazing dance partner.”

Justine Lupe, known for her role as Morgan, was immediately attracted to Kristen Bell’s involvement and the script’s clear character dynamics. She found herself hearing the characters’ voices so distinctly while reading the script, even listening to Sarah’s podcast to further understand the “hyper-realism” of the show.

Lupe’s embrace of her “goofy character” and the opportunity to “go even more off the tracks” showcases her comedic range. Timothy Simons, as a supporting character, found excitement in the expanded dimensionality afforded by a multi-episode series, looking forward to seeing his character “be good at stuff” despite his inherent awkwardness.

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Unforgettable Chemistry and the Power of Natural Performance

The palpable chemistry between Kristen Bell and Adam Brody is a standout element of Nobody Wants This that audiences have universally praised. Brody, humbly counters, “it’s not simply their personal chemistry, but the beauty of the way these characters are set up… it is a harmony of actors and writers.”

Bell, fiercely loyal, reiterates her initial conviction: “It’s Adam Brody. It’s only Adam Brody.” She praises Brody’s “unforeseen acting choices,” his naturalistic acting style.

“Much like Sarah, Adam’s weird and makes non-obvious choices… You keep people on your toes. Also, you’re one of the most natural people to watch… When you talk in a scene… Adam isn’t saying lines. Noah’s just here. He’s so natural. He talks like a human talks,” Brody adds.

Looking Ahead: Hopes for Season 2 and Beyond

With the exciting announcement of a Season 2, the cast shares their hopes for their characters. Jackie Tohn expresses a desire to explore Esther’s origins, perhaps meeting her “bawdy Jewish 75-year-old mother,” while Timothy Simons longs for his character to exhibit more competence. Justine Lupe echoes the desire for greater “multi-dimensionality” and even floats the idea of meeting Morgan’s ex-husband, ideally played by Brad Pitt.

[More: Erin Foster On “Nobody Wants This”]

by Staff Writer

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