Rachel Sennott Opens Up About New Show I Love LA

LOS ANGELES, CA – Rachel Sennott, star of the new HBO series I Love LA, is candid about the challenges of making it in Hollywood. During a recent Zoom call, Sennott, who co-wrote and stars in the show, discussed her journey from viral comedy videos to a major television role.

Sennott’s new show, which explores the complexities of being an influencer, follows the lives of characters Tallulah (Odessa A’Zion) and Maia (Sennott) as they navigate fame in Los Angeles. Influenced by popular culture and her own experiences, Sennott aims to portray the nuances of Gen Z life.

“I wanted to make a show where the internet, not Hollywood, was the industry, because my career started online,” Sennott said. She reflected on her tumultuous early 20s, remarking, “In my early 20s, I was so messy, crying in public everywhere.” Moving to Los Angeles marked a turning point, but she often felt the pressure of expectations.

Raised in Connecticut, Sennott honed her craft at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. Despite facing rejections from various comedy groups and plays, she persevered and began performing at open mics, eventually collaborating with Emma Seligman.

Sennott’s comedic style aims for empathy rather than ridicule. “There have been a lot of shows that depict young people and their relationship to the internet in a condescending way,” she said. “I wanted to approach it in a way where I didn’t judge the characters.”

I Love LA explores the glamorous yet challenging life of young influencers, tackling dilemmas such as living beyond one’s means. “Influencers are being sent a bunch of free merch, but maybe they can’t pay rent,” Sennott explained. The show critiques the façades that people maintain online, aiming to shed light on the reality behind the curated lives.

Despite its humorous tone, I Love LA does not shy away from serious themes, emphasizing the complexities of friendship and the impact of social media on young adults. Sennott picks out moments from the series that resonate deeply, including one scene where a character pretends to belong to a different background to receive medical care faster.

She faced challenges transitioning from film to television but found support from seasoned producers like Lorene Scafaria, enhancing her experience in this new medium. “There were no weak links,” she said about the show’s cast. “Everyone shines.”

After spending five years in Los Angeles, Sennott now feels a deep connection to the city. “Now I do love LA!” she exclaimed, reflecting on her journey. With I Love LA, she invites viewers to experience the highs and lows of modern fame through a uniquely comedic lens.