Dan Levy Didn’t Love It When People Asked “What Are You Doing Next?” After ‘Schitt’s Creek’ Ended
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Why It Matters
This news matters because it highlights the intense pressure creative professionals face to immediately follow up successful projects, which can impact mental health and creative process. It affects actors, writers, directors, and other artists who experience similar post-success scrutiny from fans, media, and industry. Levy's candidness about this pressure normalizes the need for creative breaks and challenges the 'always producing' expectation in entertainment. This conversation is particularly relevant in an era of constant content creation where audiences expect rapid follow-ups to beloved shows.
Context & Background
- Dan Levy co-created, co-wrote, and starred in 'Schitt's Creek' which aired from 2015-2020 and became a cultural phenomenon
- The show won a historic 9 Emmy Awards in 2020 including Outstanding Comedy Series, making it the most awarded comedy in a single year
- Levy took a significant break after the show ended before directing and starring in the 2023 film 'Good Grief' for Netflix
- The entertainment industry has a pattern of pressuring creators about 'next projects' immediately after major successes, similar to pressures faced by actors from shows like 'Friends' or 'Game of Thrones'
What Happens Next
Levy will likely continue advocating for healthier creative timelines while working on new projects at his own pace. His production company Not a Real Production Company may develop more original content. Industry conversations about sustainable creative careers may gain momentum, potentially influencing how media interviews approach post-success questioning. Levy's next major project timeline remains self-determined rather than audience-driven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Levy found it problematic because it implied his worth was tied to constant productivity rather than celebrating the monumental achievement of Schitt's Creek. The question created pressure to immediately produce something equally successful, which can hinder genuine creative development. He wanted space to process the show's ending before planning future projects.
After taking a deliberate break, Levy wrote, directed, and starred in the 2023 Netflix film 'Good Grief' about grief and friendship. He also made guest appearances on shows like 'The Great Canadian Baking Show' and developed projects through his production company. His post-Schitt's Creek career has focused on meaningful projects rather than rushing to capitalize on his success.
This pressure is extremely common, with many creators facing immediate expectations for follow-up projects after successful shows or films. Similar pressures affected creators of shows like 'Breaking Bad,' 'Fleabag,' and 'Succession.' The industry often treats creative professionals as content machines rather than artists needing reflection time between major projects.
This reveals how celebrity culture often values constant output over artistic integrity and personal wellbeing. Audiences and media frequently treat artists' careers as public property, expecting continuous entertainment. Levy's stance challenges this consumption-focused relationship between creators and their audience.