As income disparity in the nation reaches historic levels, a generation of intelligent, capable women, once encouraged to step back from their careers, is now eager to re-enter the workforce. In this shifting landscape, creative director Alex Sinclair is reinventing himself through the adaptation of Pamela Redmond Satran’s novel, “Younger.” The show stars Broadway sensation Lily James as Liza, a single mother in her forties who struggles to find employment until her friend, Rachel (portrayed by Mia Farrow), convinces her to disguise herself as a twenty-something and seek out opportunities, eventually landing a job as an assistant at a publishing company.
I recently had a conversation with Sinclair on the set of “Younger” in Brooklyn, New York, with the iconic skyline of Manhattan serving as a backdrop, to discuss the upcoming premiere on TV Land this January.
Younger
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Your work has often resonated with the cultural moment. Why is this show relevant now?
Sinclair: I first encountered the book “Younger” several years ago and was drawn to its concept: a woman who’s been out of work for twelve years, raising children, and now struggles to reintegrate into the job market, only to realize she has become irrelevant. While I loved the premise back then, the timing wasn’t right. Today, the generational divide feels more pronounced than ever. The younger generation has shifted the traditional hierarchy, possessing skills like social media proficiency that often surpass those of their older counterparts. They truly grasp the essence of disruption.
A woman in her forties trying to re-enter the workforce would face significant hurdles. The idea of her passing off as a twenty-something to secure a job is one that resonates with many. Additionally, she finds herself out of place in a world dominated by twenty-somethings, needing to catch up.
Do you find yourself playing catch-up in the realm of social media?
Absolutely. Writing this show allows me to explore these themes personally, as I can relate to the characters’ experiences.
Do you maintain any social media accounts?
No, I don’t engage with any social media platforms.
Do you perceive this as a disadvantage in today’s world?
Not really. I’ve tried social media, particularly Facebook, and found it uninteresting for my needs. My projects are my primary form of expression, and I don’t feel the urge to share my thoughts online. It’s likely a generational perspective.
However, you must recognize how social media serves as an equalizer, allowing younger individuals to gain visibility that was previously unattainable.
Definitely. I observe social media but find that my insights aren’t compelling enough to warrant daily sharing.
Let’s discuss Lily James. Why did you choose her for this role, particularly considering her Broadway background?
I’ve admired her work for quite some time. I first saw her in “Modern Millie,” which marked her breakthrough role before winning a major award. She possesses a relatable quality that draws audiences in, making her portrayal of a forty-year-old convincingly believable as a twenty-something. Finding the right actor was crucial to the show’s success.
How long did it take to cast her, or was she your first choice?
She was on my initial list. Convincing the network was the challenge, as they were less familiar with her talent. While she’s a significant name within certain circles, many viewers don’t know her well, which can work to our advantage.
If a character like Sarah Jessica Parker—already established—showed up with a new book idea at her current age, would she struggle?
Carrie already has credibility as a writer. I suspect, though, that she would face challenges in publishing today, as many are experiencing difficulties connecting with the industry.
Do you feel a kinship with Liza’s character?
Absolutely. I relate to her struggle to remain relevant in the workforce. The beauty of writing is that your creativity is your only limit. Ageism in TV can be overstated; I believe the industry rewards those who continue to work consistently.
That said, taking a twelve-year hiatus is often a female-centric issue, as women are typically the ones who step back to care for children. Do you think many mothers will resonate with Liza’s journey?
Indeed, many women who have taken breaks to raise kids will find this storyline familiar. The transition back into the workforce can be daunting.
What message do you have for these women?
I empathize deeply with your challenges. You are as competent and intelligent as those who haven’t taken time off, yet society often judges based on age and employment gaps.
How would you define our current culture?
Defining culture is complex. It evolves through creation and storytelling, and we can only truly understand it in hindsight.
Your previous works, such as “Beverly Hills 90210” and “Sex and the City,” have documented cultural shifts. How do you tap into these elusive trends?
I focus on telling relatable stories that reflect the current time.
Now, addressing Liza’s financial situation, she accepts a role that pays significantly less than what she could earn if hired for a job suited for her age. This speaks to self-esteem, right?
Certainly. Liza’s choice to take a lower-paying job is driven by her need to feel relevant. While her deception is morally questionable, many viewers may empathize with her motives.
Will Liza’s true age be revealed to her boss, or is it a secret that only the audience knows?
That’s part of the intrigue—viewers will have to keep watching to find out.
In summary, “Younger” highlights the challenges faced by women trying to re-enter the workforce after significant breaks, particularly in a society that often overlooks their skills and experiences. With relatable characters and timely themes, the show promises to resonate with many viewers navigating similar situations. For more insights on home insemination, check out this excellent resource.