VIFF Podcast

Bill Lawrence on 'Ted Lasso' and the need for heart in comedy

February 16, 2021 Bill Lawrence Season 2 Episode 2
VIFF Podcast
Bill Lawrence on 'Ted Lasso' and the need for heart in comedy
Show Notes

In this episode, we revisit a conversation with Bill Lawrence – the creator behind hit sitcoms Scrubs, Cougar Town, Spin City, and the animated series Clone High

Joining us online as part of our 2020 virtual Creator Talk series, Bill shared a behind the scenes look at his latest big-hearted comedy Ted Lasso. 

The Apple TV+ show finds Jason Sudeikis recruited to manage an English Premiere League soccer team, despite having no experience in the role (or even a clear concept of the sport). The series, which proves that comedy and sincerity can be potent strike partners, has garnered a lot of awards season buzz, with nominations across SAG, Golden Globes, Critics Choice, Writers Guild Awards and more.

Speaking to Warrior Nun Creator Simon Barry, Bill discusses mixing sensibilities in the writers’ room, and why some of the best comedies are the ones with a little bit of heart.

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ʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) nations.

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