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Imagine stepping into a world where the grace of ballet collides with the sharp wit of comedy—this is exactly what Luke Kirby is doing in his latest role in Étoile. After capturing hearts as Lenny Bruce in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Kirby’s transition to this new series on Prime Video is not just a career move; it feels like a calling. He reflects on his time in Maisel, where he portrayed Bruce across 16 episodes, and the satisfaction that came with it, yet he always felt there was more to explore. And that’s when the creators of Maisel, Amy Sherman-Palladino and Dan Palladino, beckoned him for a lunch that would change everything.
From Lenny Bruce to Étoile: A new chapter
When Kirby sat down with the Palladinos, little did he know they were ready to serve him a feast of opportunity. “I felt really good about what we had done with Lenny,” he says, “but I did feel like I had missed out on a bigger feast of getting to work with them.” This sentiment resonates deeply with many actors who often crave more depth in their roles—a chance to delve into new characters and narratives. The Palladinos’ pitch for Étoile was enticing: a comedic dive into the ballet world, one that would allow Kirby to stretch his creative muscles in a fresh way.
In Étoile, Kirby takes on the role of the head of a fictional ballet company in New York City, where he navigates the complexities of both the art form and his tumultuous relationship with Geneviève, played by Charlotte Gainsbourg. The plot thickens as they devise a plan to swap dancers between New York and Paris, creating a delightful chaos that’s both a publicity stunt and a cultural clash. It’s not just about dance; it’s about connection, rivalry, and the hilarity that ensues when two worlds collide.
The magic of the Palladino universe
But let’s talk about the unique charm of working within the Palladino universe. Kirby humorously mentions how he asked the creators for a role that wouldn’t require him to wake up too early or talk too fast—something many of us can relate to, right? Yet, in true Palladino fashion, he found himself bustling through the halls of Lincoln Center, engaging in rapid-fire dialogue that demands both agility and grace. “The dance company— their dedication is so intense and inspiring that it rings a bell to kind of come correct and awake to the moment,” he explains, reflecting on the environment created around him. It’s a space where you can almost convince yourself that the world of ballet is your reality.
As Kirby walks through this vibrant backdrop, he recalls moments when the real dancers, serving as background actors, would stand up a little straighter as he entered a room. “It was just a beautiful thing that they somehow chose to do,” he adds, emphasizing the camaraderie and respect he felt from the cast. There’s an authenticity in portraying a world that demands such physical and emotional commitment, and Kirby seems eager to embrace it all.
What’s next for Luke Kirby?
As the conversation shifts towards the future, one can’t help but wonder what other adventures lie ahead for Kirby. With Étoile now streaming, audiences can witness his evolution as an actor and a storyteller. In my view, Kirby’s ability to seamlessly transition from the gritty humor of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel to the whimsical charm of Étoile showcases his versatility and commitment to his craft. Personally, I believe that this series not only highlights his talent but also opens up a broader discussion about the intersection of comedy and performance art. Can comedy truly capture the essence of something as structured as ballet? Kirby seems to think so, and it’s hard not to be intrigued.
Catch all these insights and more on this week’s episode of the Prestige Junkie podcast, where Kirby reflects on his journey and the evolving landscape of television. It’s an exciting time to be a fan of the arts, and with creators like the Palladinos at the helm, who knows what other imaginative worlds are waiting to be explored?