Dan Levy Reflects on Reality TV Roots and Laguna Beach Reunion
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Dan Levy, renowned for his acclaimed series ‘Schitt’s Creek’, has shared insights into how his experiences with reality television have influenced his creative journey. The 42-year-old actor and writer, who co-hosted the MTV show ‘The Hills After Show’, recently expressed his surprise at not being invited to host the upcoming reunion special for ‘Laguna Beach’.
During a recent episode of Jake Shane’s Therapuss podcast, Levy admitted that he was quite taken aback when he learned that the reunion, scheduled to air on April 10, would be hosted by comedian Casey Wilson, rather than someone from the original reality series landscape. He remarked, “I’m shocked they didn’t ask me to come and host the reunion,” adding that he would have eagerly accepted the opportunity.
Levy, who had a previous role interviewing stars such as Lauren Conrad and Kristin Cavallari, reflected on his time at MTV. He acknowledged that while he didn’t thoroughly enjoy that phase of his career, he recognised its importance in shaping who he has become as a creative professional. “I still have love for what got me here,” he explained, noting that, despite feeling out of place at times, he valued the experiences and connections he made along the way.
One notable aspect of Levy’s role on ‘The Hills After Show’ was the opportunity it provided him to observe the lives of young, affluent individuals. This unique perspective proved instrumental in inspiring the concept behind ‘Schitt’s Creek’. He shared, “Every season finale, we would host, so we became very involved in the show. I got to see a kind of perspective on reality television…I became preoccupied with the idea of what would happen to these families that we’ve come to know and love, who are really well off, if it all went away.”
The notion of exploring the ‘what ifs’ of wealth and privilege gave rise to the storyline of ‘Schitt’s Creek’, which follows a wealthy family who loses everything and must adapt to life in a small town. Levy’s behind-the-scenes experience with reality shows shaped his creative vision, prompting him to delve into the complexity of rich families facing unexpected upheaval.
Reflecting on his former colleagues, Levy praised Kristin Cavallari, stating she was “a star” who understood the dynamics of reality television exceptionally well. He noted that she was “miles ahead” of her co-stars, recognising the game she was playing. Levy remarked on how enjoyable it was to work with her, as she always brought energy and engagement to the show. He observed that Cavallari’s ability to navigate her reality television role made her a standout figure during their collaborations.
The reunion special for ‘Laguna Beach’ is much anticipated, particularly with its nostalgic connection to early 2000s reality television. As fans gear up for the premiere, Levy’s reflections serve as a reminder of how intertwined the realms of scripted and unscripted television can be. His journey from reality TV co-host to an Emmy-winning writer and actor highlights the often unpredictable nature of careers in the entertainment industry.
As viewers await the ‘Laguna Beach’ reunion, Levy’s insights into his past experiences offer a unique perspective on the evolution of reality television and its impact on modern storytelling. His ability to draw from his time in front of the camera to create a beloved sitcom underscores the lasting influence of those early projects, even if they were not always enjoyable for him.
The special premiere on Roku promises to bring back familiar faces and stories, capturing the hearts of fans who have long awaited a return to the iconic show. Meanwhile, Levy remains a testament to the potential for growth and creativity that can stem from even the most unexpected beginnings in the world of television.