Netflix Comedy Banks on Real-Life Connections for Authentic Ensemble
When Netflix’s “The Four Seasons” premieres on May 1, viewers will witness an ensemble cast whose on-screen chemistry benefits from real-life connections and carefully considered casting choices. The eight-episode comedy series, adapted from Alan Alda’s 1981 film, focuses on three couples whose long-standing friendships are tested when one relationship dissolves. With relationships at its core, the success of the show hinges on making these interpersonal dynamics feel genuine.
Series co-creator and star Tina Fey approached casting with specific attention to how performers would complement each other. “It feels lived-in,” Steve Carell told Netflix Tudum about the show’s ensemble. “And I attribute that to the writing and the casting of it, too. It feels like these people have existed in each other’s lives for a long time. There’s a code, there’s an unspoken relationship that entwines all of them, and they speak the same language to each other.”
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Reuniting Old Friends and Colleagues
The series benefits from several pre-existing relationships among cast members. Most notably, Fey and Carell previously co-starred in 2010’s “Date Night,” providing an established rapport between the two comedy veterans. Though they play members of different couples in “The Four Seasons,” their comfort with each other translates into believable long-term friendship on screen.
Similarly, Fey and Will Forte share history from their “Saturday Night Live” days, where Fey served as head writer while Forte was a cast member. “Tina has always been like the senior when I was a freshman. She was pretty much always my boss, even though we’re the same age,” Forte explained to Netflix Tudum. This professional dynamic adds interesting layers to their portrayal of a married couple navigating the changing dynamics of their friend group.
Carell’s Casting Sets Dramatic Foundation
When assembling her dream cast, Fey identified Carell as essential to the project’s success, particularly given his character’s potentially controversial actions. “He was the first person that I called because from the moment we talked about doing this,” she revealed at the Los Angeles premiere, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
The “Office” star plays Nick, who leaves his wife for a younger woman, echoing a similar plot point from Alda’s original film. Fey praised Carell’s unique ability to maintain audience empathy despite his character’s questionable choices: “You have to have an actor that you love him through it, that you see the human inside these choices that could make you mad. And Steve is that guy.” She went so far as to call him “the Jimmy Stewart of our generation” for this talent.
Colman Domingo Brings Dramatic Weight
Fresh off his Oscar nomination for “Rustin,” Colman Domingo adds significant dramatic credentials to the ensemble. His casting alongside Italian actor Marco Calvani as the series’ gay couple represents a key update from the original film, which featured exclusively heterosexual relationships.
Domingo’s presence elevates the project’s acting pedigree, with his recent critically acclaimed performances in “Euphoria,” “The Color Purple,” and “The Madness” establishing him as one of Hollywood’s most versatile performers. His involvement signals the series’ intention to balance comedy with authentic emotional depth.
Comedic Veterans Anchor Supporting Roles
The supporting cast includes established comedy performers who bring additional dimensions to the ensemble. Kerri Kenney-Silver, best known for “Reno 911!,” plays Anne, Carell’s character’s wife who must navigate the aftermath of their separation. Her background in improvisational comedy complements the show’s approach to finding humor in awkward social situations.
Erika Henningsen, who portrays Ginny (the younger woman who becomes involved with Carell’s character), brings her experience from musical comedy, having previously starred in “Mean Girls” on Broadway and the Peacock series “Girls5eva,” which Fey executive produces. According to production details, the cast is rounded out with guest appearances from Julia Lester, Ashlyn Maddox, Jacob Buckenmyer, Taylor Ortega, and Simone Recasner.
Production Approach Fostered Authentic Connections
Beyond careful casting, the production method itself fostered genuine cast chemistry. Fey adopted what she called “the Sandler model,” filming in appealing locations and creating a comfortable environment for performers. “What if it’s just six or seven actors in nice locations, wearing flat shoes and sweaters—could we get away with it?” she reflected at the Los Angeles premiere.
This approach proved particularly effective for a show centered on vacation dynamics. Filming in New York and Puerto Rico, the production recreated the seasonal getaways at the
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