Palladinos Preview ‘Étoile,’ New Ballet Drama Set to Captivate Audiences

HOLLYWOOD, California — Creators Amy Sherman-Palladino and Dan Palladino expressed their amazement at their enduring success as they unveiled their latest project, the Amazon series “Étoile,” at its recent premiere. The couple, known for iconic shows like “Gilmore Girls” and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” have once again collaborated to explore a unique narrative within the competitive world of ballet.

Set against the backdrop of prestigious ballet companies in Paris and New York, “Étoile” centers on the tension and humor that arises when these two dramatic environments collide. “We feel incredibly fortunate that audiences still connect with our work, as television can often feel disposable,” Dan Palladino said at the event, referencing the ongoing popularity of their previous series.

Dan noted that the humor in their shows is nuanced, with clever references and rapid-fire dialogue that lends itself to repeat viewings. He stated, “The humor is really a strong heart at the core of all these shows. It’s about connection and bonding over shared experiences that are multi-layered.” Amy added that they strive to depict female characters with depth. “There are female characters who bond over things other than men,” she elaborated, emphasizing the complexity of the relationships they write.

The show stars Charlotte Gainsbourg alongside familiar faces such as Luke Kirby and Yanic Truesdale. The Palladinos are excited about the unique dynamics that ballet brings to their storytelling. “Dancers live in a world of extremes, both on and off the stage,” Amy explained. “It’s such a beautiful and rigorous art form, and I admire the dedication it requires. You don’t get into it for the money; you do it for the love of art.”

The title “Étoile” signifies a prestigious status within ballet, a nod to the storied tradition of performance art that includes sacrifice and struggle. With the show set to premiere on April 24, the buzz is palpable, fueled by the couple’s reputation for crafting rich, character-driven stories.

“Ballet is incredibly demanding, and we wanted to portray not just the glamour, but the reality of those involved,” Dan continued. He mentioned how they conducted extensive research and worked with professionals to accurately depict the ballet world, breaking down stereotypes and revealing both the light and shadow of the craft.

Reflecting on their trajectory, Amy remarked on their relatively low social media presence, which, she says, adds an air of mystique. “There’s not a lot of us out there, so it makes us feel a little Garbo-esque. It’s mysterious and captivating,” she said with a laugh.