In a recent discussion with The Hollywood Reporter, Ryan Murphy, the co-creator and executive producer of the new series “The Shards,” shared insights into the creative approach he took for the show’s intimate scenes. Drawing from Bret Easton Ellis’ recently released novel, Murphy explained his vision for a presentation that prioritises tastefulness over sensationalism.
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Murphy, well-known for his work on various high school-themed dramas, articulated his belief that adolescence encompasses a range of experiences beyond just sexuality. He pointed out that themes such as longing and romance often resonate more strongly in these narratives. “I think that arena is really interesting,” stated Murphy, who has a particular fondness for exploring stories about first experiences, including first kisses and first crushes. As a father of three young boys, he acknowledged the responsibility of balancing erotic content with consideration for younger audiences.
Despite the underlying themes of desire in “The Shards,” Murphy expressed a conscious decision to avoid overly graphic depictions of sexual content. “In the back of my mind, I was always like, ‘Being too graphic and too sensational is not the way to go,’” he reiterated. This choice reflects his intent to create a production that would not only resonate with those who grew up in the 1980s but also appeal to younger viewers navigating similar life stages today.
Murphy recognised that the series does contain elements of yearning and eroticism but emphasised the importance of handling these aspects responsibly. “We approached that very responsibly with intimacy coordinators,” he noted, referencing the collaborative effort to ensure the comfort of the cast during these scenes. He jokingly remarked on how his perspective has shifted with age, describing himself as becoming “an old Victorian prude.” This transformation, he suggested, may stem from his role as a parent, leading him to question the necessity of explicit elements in storytelling.
In addressing the presence of sexual scenes in “The Shards,” Murphy affirmed that they are crafted to be sufficiently tasteful for family viewing, stating, “I’d watch it with my own teenager.” He acknowledged the potential for these scenes to spark meaningful conversations amongst viewers, particularly because a significant portion of the ensemble cast comprises emerging actors. “What do you feel comfortable doing?” he regularly asks his cast members, thereby promoting a culture of empowerment and respect on set.
The series premiered on August 5 and dives into the lives of a glamorous, yet troubled, group of high school seniors attending an elite Los Angeles prep school. As they navigate the complexities of identity, relationships, jealousy, and the lurking dangers of adolescence, the show’s narrative unfolds with depth and nuance. The cast features notable names including Homer Gere, Kaia Gerber, and Evan Rachel Wood, among others.
In his conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Murphy also expressed admiration for Ellis’ writing, proclaiming his long-standing fandom for the author. He confessed to being an avid reader of Ellis’ work since the release of his first novel. “I was thrilled that I could get it,” he exclaimed, illustrating his enthusiasm for adapting “The Shards” after years of being a devoted follower of Ellis’ narratives.
As “The Shards” continues to release new episodes every Wednesday leading up to its finale on September 9, its exploration of the intricate, often tumultuous, world of adolescence promises to engage viewers across generations. Through a blend of vintage allure and contemporary discussions, Murphy’s adaptation is poised to resonate meaningfully with both nostalgic audiences and today’s youth, while tackling significant themes of growth, identity, and the challenges of growing up.