New York City, USA – Acclaimed creator Amy Sherman-Palladino, known for her work on popular series like Gilmore Girls and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, is returning with a new project for Prime Video. Titled Étoile, the series delves into the world of ballet, a realm that Sherman-Palladino herself was once a part of before transitioning into television writing. Co-created with her husband Daniel Palladino, the show centers around the staff and dancers of two prestigious ballet companies in New York City and Paris, exploring themes of family, ambition, and the struggles faced by the art form.
As ballet faces challenges in the real world, with funding cuts and setbacks due to the pandemic, Étoile brings these issues to the forefront through its characters. The series follows Jack, the executive director of the Metropolitan Ballet Theater in New York, and Geneviève, the interim director of Le Ballet National in Paris, as they come up with a publicity stunt involving an overseas talent swap to boost their companies’ profiles and ticket sales. However, the question of funding looms over their plans, leading them to an unexpected partnership with the eccentric billionaire Crispin Shamblee.
Crispin, portrayed by the legendary Simon Callow, adds a dynamic element to the show with his quirky and enigmatic personality. Despite his questionable methods and past dealings, Crispin’s passion for ballet and his unique way of supporting the arts bring both laughter and intrigue to the series. However, as his true intentions begin to surface, the characters are faced with ethical dilemmas and moral quandaries, blurring the lines between art, commerce, and personal beliefs.
Through the lens of Étoile, Sherman-Palladino and Palladino offer a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of the art world, where the pursuit of creativity often intersects with the realities of funding and support. As the characters navigate interpersonal conflicts, industry challenges, and the influence of external forces, the series raises questions about the ethical responsibilities of artists, patrons, and audiences alike. Balancing humor, drama, and social commentary, Étoile invites viewers to reflect on the interconnected nature of art and commerce in a rapidly changing world.