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What happens when a celebrated comedian meets the world of ballet? For Luke Kirby, who gained fame portraying the iconic Lenny Bruce in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, this transition has been nothing short of fascinating. He recently opened up about his new role in Étoile, a comedy series on Prime Video, where he takes on the challenge of heading a fictional New York City ballet company. This new venture not only showcases his versatility as an actor but also offers a glimpse into a world filled with creativity, ambition, and the occasional culture clash.
From Lenny Bruce to a ballet director
Kirby’s journey in Étoile is intriguing. After his memorable stint in Maisel, where he captured audiences as Bruce over 16 episodes, he found himself yearning for more. “I felt really good about what we had done with Lenny,” he expressed, reflecting on his time in the show, “but there was a part of me that wanted to explore further.” It was during a lunch with the creators, Amy Sherman-Palladino and Dan Palladino, that Kirby learned about this new project. “To be invited into a new adventure with them so quickly was just really charmed,” he said, clearly excited about what lay ahead.
Getting into character
In Étoile, Kirby portrays a character who is both a leader and a dreamer, navigating the complexities of the ballet world while managing a budding romance with Geneviève, played by Charlotte Gainsbourg. The series presents a unique premise: swapping dancers between New York and Paris. This concept not only serves as a publicity stunt but also sets the stage for comedic and dramatic exchanges among the dancers, highlighting their diverse backgrounds and experiences. Kirby’s enthusiasm for this role is palpable—he even humorously requested a part that didn’t require him to wake up too early or talk too fast. Yet, true to the Palladino style, he finds himself often chatting and walking through the bustling halls of Lincoln Center.
The ballet world through Luke’s eyes
As Kirby immerses himself in this new environment, he notes the intense dedication of the real dancers surrounding him. “Their commitment is so inspiring that it pushes me to come correct and awake to the moment,” he shared, revealing how the experience has influenced his performance. It’s fascinating how the actors and dancers interact; Kirby described a scenario where he walks into a room and the dancers instinctively sit up straighter, treating him like the boss. “It was just a beautiful thing that they somehow chose to do,” he added, reflecting on the camaraderie and respect that permeates the set.
Excitement for what’s to come
Kirby’s excitement for Étoile radiates through every word. He’s not just looking forward to the series airing; he’s enthusiastic about the stories they’ll tell and the laughs they’ll share. “I remember when I first stepped into the rehearsal space—it felt like entering a whole new world. The energy, the passion, it was infectious!” he exclaimed, clearly relishing the creative process. As the series gears up for its debut, Kirby’s insights into the ballet world and his experiences working alongside talented dancers and creators promise to captivate audiences.
This week’s episode of the Prestige Junkie podcast dives even deeper into Kirby’s journey, featuring a discussion on the current Emmy contenders and what surprises the season may hold. The entertainment landscape is ever-evolving, and with Kirby’s transition from a famed comedian to a ballet director, it seems this year will be no exception.