Amy Poehler, the acclaimed actress and comedian, has revealed her excitement about the upcoming television adaptation of the novel ‘Excavations,’ during the recent premiere event of her new series, Dig, in Los Angeles. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE, Poehler discussed the creative process involved in translating Kate Myers’ literary work into a sitcom format, reflecting on the intricate character development that Myers infused into her debut novel, published in 2023.
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‘Excavations’ tells the story of three women at an archaeological site in Greece during a summer that takes unexpected turns when they unearth a peculiar artefact. At the forefront of this adaptation is Poehler, who co-created Dig alongside her long-time collaborator, Mike Schur, renowned for his previous work on Parks & Recreation. The new workplace comedy, which focuses on this unique setting, is set to premiere its first season on Peacock on November 23.
Poehler praised Myers for her remarkable ability to create “very specific characters” within the pages of her book, noting that this depth was invaluable in shaping the comedic elements of the series. “We thought, ‘Oh, these women are relatable and understandable,’” Poehler remarked, acknowledging how this character-driven approach aligns well with the comedic narrative they aimed to develop.
Highlighting the show’s distinctive setting, she elaborated on the criteria for crafting an effective workplace comedy. “You want it to be a world where it feels plausible for a quirky set of individuals to coexist,” she explained. “An archaeological dig is one of those environments where an eclectic group can naturally come together.” This unique backdrop provides fertile ground for comedic storytelling and character interactions.
Furthermore, Poehler has previously described Dig as having a “distinctly Gen X” tone, attributing this to the layers of her character—an ambitious professional contemplating the decisions that have shaped her life. Reflecting on her own experiences as a member of Generation X, Poehler expressed admiration for the traits that define those born between 1965 and 1980. “We understand the past while remaining keenly aware of the future,” she said, capturing the essence of this transitional generation.
Poehler elaborated on the richness of that generational perspective, suggesting that it offers a blend of nostalgia and wisdom that informs the character dynamics in Dig. “It’s exciting to explore that intersection of past experiences and future possibilities, especially in a comedic framework. This lets us honour the experiences of women my age, who are often underrepresented in media,” she remarked, with a hint of affection for her contemporaries.
The show’s character development is not the only aspect that has captivated Poehler; she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to portray a woman navigating complex choices in her life and career. “It’s thrilling to explore a character who is at a crossroads, trying to decide if her choices have led her down the right path,” she reflected, highlighting the broader relevance of such narratives to many viewers.
As anticipation builds for the premiere of Dig, Poehler’s profound insights into the adaptation process offer a glimpse into the thoughtful storytelling that viewers can expect. With the show poised to launch on November 23, it promises to introduce audiences to a fresh and humorous exploration of relatable themes framed within the engaging context of life at an archaeological dig.
In summary, Amy Poehler’s latest venture represents not only a celebration of women’s stories but also an inventive interpretation of a novel that has struck a chord with readers. As the date draws near, fans and new viewers alike are eager to discover how this adaptation brings Kate Myers’ vision to life on the small screen.
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