Sony has earned a stellar reputation in recent years for producing some of the most compelling projects, and it continues to expand its creative horizons. With hits like The Boys and Cobra Kai under its belt, Sony has established itself as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, and now, the studio is bolstering its behind-the-scenes talent by signing first-look deals with nine up-and-coming comedy writers: Scott Aukerman, Karen Chee, Chris Garcia, Julie Klausner, Chris Gethard, Lisa Gilroy, Lacey Jeka, Shaun Diston, and Alok Vaid-Menon. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the writers will help develop new projects and collaborate with existing creative minds at Sony.
Lauren Stein, head of creative at Sony Pictures TV, and Colin Davis, executive vice president of comedy development, have meticulously curated this new wave of talent with the intent of bringing more diversity in style and substance to Sony’s comedy output. Stein also emphasized that the deal suggests the writers are free to experiment with ideas they think are worth expanding on. As Stein and David both told THR:
Stein: “It’s our way of saying, ‘Come here.’ You’re not tied down here because it’s just a first look. You still have the flexibility to work at other places, staff on other shows. But bring us those passion projects. Bring us the idea that you don’t think you could get another studio to do. Because of our independence, we have the most flexibility, and you’ll get the most freedom for your creativity.”
David: “TheShockNews is a collective of a different creators and multihyphenates that we believe each have unique voices and a hit show in them. They really represent the comedy community at large, and we’re excited that we get to be the third-party studio that gets to sell what their visions are to a variety of places.”
The strategic move by Sony is proof of the studio’s dedication to excellence and innovation in the comedy genre. Not only are these fresh-faced writers accustomed to changing trends and ideas, which will ensure the content remains relevant and engaging, but all these writers already have a minor fanbase they cater to. The decision reflects Sony’s forward-thinking approach and its desire to stay ahead in the game.
A Sneak Peek Into The Talents’ Previous Work
All nine of Sony’s new writers boast impressive pedigrees in comedy. Scott Aukerman, known for his work on Comedy Bang! Bang! and Between Two Ferns has been a significant figure in comedy for a while now. Karen Chee is a three-time Emmy nominated writer for Late Night with Seth Meyers, Shaun Diston has made a name for himself with his work on Wrecked and Twisted Metal. Garcia is also regarded highly in the stand-up comedy world. Chris Gethard continues to push the boundaries of the genre with shows like Career Suicide and The Chris Gethard Show.
Gilroy is easily recognizable to die-hard comedy fans for her viral comedy sketches and her work on Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Jeka is also set to bring a bold voice to Sony with her experience on Broad City and Inside Amy Schumer. Julie Klausner is the creator and star of Difficult People and Vaid-Menon, a performance artist known for Netflix’s Gender Agenda, is also celebrated in the industry.
Sony is encouraging writers to foster a creative environment where all the talents meet and talk. Stein noted how “A producer may have an idea that a writer has a very specific connection to — you only learn those things by having people meet.” Gethard is already working with Jessi Klein on a new project, and the approach, as highlighted by Stein, is all about beginning a fresh chapter for Sony where writers are free to offer a fresh take on existing IP, as well as come up with original ideas.