As income disparities soar to unprecedented levels in our society, a wave of intelligent and capable women who once stepped back from their careers are now eager to re-enter the workforce. In the heart of this cultural shift, creator Alex Star is breathing new life into Pamela Redmond Satran’s novel Younger. The series stars Broadway sensation Lily Thompson as Liza, a single mother in her forties who finds herself struggling to land a job after dedicating years to raising her children. With encouragement from her friend Mia (played by Eva Marquez), Liza embarks on a quest for employment, presenting herself as a vibrant twenty-something.
I recently had the chance to chat with Star on the Younger set in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where the Manhattan skyline served as a picturesque backdrop, about his new venture set to debut on TV Land this January.
Finding the Right Moment for Younger
When asked about the relevance of the show in today’s culture, Star explained, “I read the book years ago and was drawn to the storyline of a woman trying to reclaim her career after a long hiatus. Back then, it didn’t feel like the right moment to adapt it, but now, with the generational divide feeling more pronounced than ever, it seems timely.” He noted how the skill sets of younger generations—especially regarding social media—often overshadow those of older workers, creating unique challenges for someone like Liza trying to re-enter the workforce.
Navigating Social Media as a Writer
I probed Star about his own experiences with social media, and he candidly admitted that he doesn’t engage with platforms like Facebook or Twitter. “I’ve tried, but it’s just not for me. I find my shows speak for themselves,” he shared. Despite his lack of personal involvement, he recognizes the role social media plays in leveling the playing field for young people today.
Casting the Right Star
Turning our conversation to Lily Thompson, I asked Star about his decision to cast her, particularly given her Broadway background. “I’ve admired her for years. She has this innate ability to evoke empathy, making viewers root for her character,” he said. “It was crucial to find someone who could convincingly portray a woman passing as younger, and Lily fit the bill perfectly.”
The casting process, however, wasn’t without its challenges. Star had to persuade network executives of Thompson’s potential, as her fame was primarily confined to theater circles. “I believe that television has the power to create stars, and I wanted audiences to discover her fresh.”
Relevance and Reinvention
As we discussed the pressures women face in the workforce, Star reflected on the struggles of women who have taken career breaks to raise families. “Many women find it daunting to return to work, and I wanted to highlight their experiences in this show,” he said. He empathized, noting, “Your skills don’t diminish, but societal perceptions often cloud judgment.”
A Cultural Reflection
When I asked Star to define the culture of 2014, he mused, “Creating stories that resonate with the present is essential. It’s only later that we see how these narratives reflect the time.”
We also touched on Liza’s financial struggles in her new position. “She’s not making much, but it’s about more than money; it’s about self-worth and the journey ahead,” Star explained.
The Journey Ahead
As we wrapped up our conversation, I couldn’t help but wonder if Liza’s true age would ever be revealed to her boss. “You’ll have to keep watching to find out,” he teased, leaving me eager for the show’s premiere.
For those interested in more about navigating motherhood and career, check out this insightful piece on pregnancy and home insemination. Plus, if you’re considering at-home insemination options, you can find reputable kits at Cryobaby. And for a deeper dive into similar topics, don’t miss our post on reinventing your career.
In summary, Younger expertly navigates the evolving dynamics of age, work, and identity, resonating deeply with those facing the challenges of re-entering the workforce after a hiatus. With its relatable characters and timely themes, the show promises to engage audiences and spark meaningful conversations.
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