From Rom-Com to Relationship Study: The Evolution of ‘Nobody Wants This’

The second season of Nobody Wants This demonstrates a marked maturation. The initial focus on Joanne’s introduction to Judaism has given way to a deeper exploration of the complexities inherent in long-term relationships. This shift allows the writers to delve into the nuances of Joanne and Noah’s dynamic, moving beyond initial attraction to examine the challenges of compatibility and shared values. Crucially, the series also expands its focus to the marriage of Noah’s brother, Sasha (Timothy Simons), and his wife, Esther (Jackie Tohn).

This expansion is particularly significant in addressing earlier concerns. The first season’s portrayal of Esther, in the eyes of some, felt one-dimensional and antagonistic. Konner explains that the narrative shift wasn’t a deliberate “course correction,” but rather a natural consequence of having more time to develop the characters. “No one was developed who weren’t the four main characters,” she notes, referencing the limited episode count of the first season. The increased runtime allowed for a more nuanced exploration of Esther’s motivations and inner life.

Konner emphasizes her admiration for Foster’s vision, even before joining the project. “I found it so winning and funny and fresh,” she says, explaining her initial conversations with Foster centered on supporting her creative instincts and helping her navigate the broader responsibilities of showrunning. Konner’s experience as a “shepherd of great ideas,” as she describes it, has become a defining characteristic of her career, having previously lent her expertise to projects like Single Drunk Female and Deli Boys. She believes the television industry often fails to adequately support emerging voices, and she’s committed to fostering an environment where new talent can thrive.

“I think showrunner is a four-person job that they give to one person,” Konner observes, highlighting the immense pressure placed on individuals in that role. She actively recruits collaborators, like Kaplan, to share the workload and ensure a more sustainable creative process. This collaborative spirit extends to bringing in familiar faces from her Girls days, including writer Sarah Heyward and directors Jesse Peretz, Jamie Babbit, and Richard Shepard (who is also Konner’s husband).

Beyond Stereotypes: A More Human Portrayal

The changes in Season 2 aren’t simply about correcting past missteps; they’re about deepening the characters and exploring the complexities of their relationships. Konner acknowledges the initial criticism surrounding the portrayal of Jewish women and points to Foster’s own perspective, as reported in the Los Angeles Times, that the show’s depiction of a “hot, cool, young rabbi who smokes weed” challenged conventional stereotypes. However, Konner also recognized the need for greater sensitivity and nuance.

To that end, Netflix and 20th Television proactively reached out to Konner before the first season’s criticisms gained widespread attention. She, in turn, brought on Kaplan and Rabbi Sarah Bassin as a consultant, ensuring a more informed and respectful approach to the show’s Jewish themes. This commitment to authenticity is evident in the second season’s more layered portrayal of characters like Esther.

Konner explains that the narrative shift allowed Esther to evolve beyond being a mere obstacle to Joanne and Noah’s happiness. “It would be not interesting to tell another story of Esther getting in the way of that relationship,” she says. Instead, the writers explored Esther’s own struggles and motivations, asking questions like, “Why did she marry Sasha? Why did he marry her?” This exploration reveals a woman grappling with her own insecurities and questioning the trajectory of her life.

Did You Know? Kristen Bell and Adam Brody, the stars of “Nobody Wants This,” have a real-life connection that adds an extra layer of authenticity to their on-screen chemistry. They have been married since 2014 and often share anecdotes about their own relationship experiences with the writers.

The show’s willingness to embrace flawed and complex characters extends to other figures as well. Noah’s mother, Bina (Tovah Feldshuh), is portrayed as a formidable and often intimidating matriarch, but Konner emphasizes that her actions are always motivated by a deep love for her family. Even Joanne’s sister, Morgan (Justine Lupe), described as a “tough customer,” is given moments of vulnerability and depth.

Konner’s approach to character development reflects a broader philosophy about representation in television. “Likability can be a cudgel against female characters,” she observes, drawing on her experiences with Girls. “What we always said about Girls is, she may not be likable, but she’s relatable, and that’s how I feel about these characters.”

What makes a character relatable, Konner believes, is their ability to reflect the messy, contradictory realities of human experience. In the writers’ room, Foster often shares stories from her own life, and Konner encourages the team to identify with both Foster’s perspective and that of her husband. “I go, ‘OK, even within this room, people are recognizing themselves in it, so probably people in the world are also going to recognize it,’” she explains. “And if they don’t, they go, ‘Ugh, that girl reminds me so much of a girl I hate. I can’t wait to watch her more.’”

Do you find yourself drawn to characters who are flawed and imperfect, even if they’re not always likable? And how important is authentic representation in the television shows you watch?

Finding the Universal in the Specific

The success of Nobody Wants This, Konner argues, lies in its ability to find the universal in the specific. While the show is rooted in Foster’s personal experiences, its themes of love, family, and identity resonate with audiences from all walks of life. The show’s willingness to tackle difficult questions and explore uncomfortable truths is what sets it apart.

Konner’s career has been defined by her ability to identify and nurture talent. She sees herself as a facilitator, helping creators bring their visions to life. “I really think I’m good at spotting talent,” she says. “That is something I feel a lot of pride in.” She’s committed to creating a more equitable and supportive environment for emerging voices in the television industry.

Pro Tip: When watching “Nobody Wants This,” pay attention to the subtle nuances in the performances. The actors excel at conveying complex emotions with minimal dialogue, adding depth and authenticity to their characters.

As Konner continues to shepherd new projects, she remains focused on one core principle: telling stories that are honest, relatable, and ultimately, human. Nobody Wants This is a testament to that commitment, a show that dares to explore the messy, beautiful, and often hilarious realities of modern relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions About ‘Nobody Wants This’

1. What is “Nobody Wants This” about? “Nobody Wants This” is a romantic comedy series on Netflix that follows the relationship between Joanne, a non-Jewish podcaster, and Noah, an Orthodox rabbi, and the challenges they face as they navigate their different backgrounds and beliefs.
2. What changes were made in Season 2 of “Nobody Wants This”? Season 2 delves deeper into the complexities of the characters’ relationships, moving beyond the initial culture clash to explore themes of commitment, family, and personal growth.
3. How did Jenni Konner become involved with “Nobody Wants This”? Jenni Konner was brought on as showrunner after Season 1, alongside Bruce Eric Kaplan, to help refine the show’s direction and ensure a more nuanced portrayal of its characters.
4. What was the criticism of Season 1 regarding the portrayal of Jewish women? Some critics felt that the female Jewish characters in Season 1 were depicted as stereotypical and one-dimensional, serving as antagonists to the central romance.
5. What steps were taken to address the concerns raised about the show’s representation? The showrunners brought in Rabbi Sarah Bassin as a consultant and focused on developing the characters of Esther and Bina, giving them more depth and agency in Season 2.
6. Is “Nobody Wants This” based on a true story? The series is loosely based on creator Erin Foster’s real-life romance with her husband, providing a foundation of authenticity for the show’s storylines.
7. Where can I watch “Nobody Wants This”? You can stream both seasons of “Nobody Wants This” exclusively on Netflix.