5 surprising behind-the-scenes moments from 'Veep'
What's the story
The political satire television series, Veep, has kept the audience hooked with its razor-sharp wit and a hilarious take on politics. However, as you enjoy the antics of Selina Meyer and her team, some fascinating behind-the-scenes facts make the show what it is. From casting choices to production details, here's what makes Veep a standout series in the comedy realm.
Character development
Julia Louis-Dreyfus's role in shaping Selina
Julia Louis-Dreyfus was instrumental in shaping her character, Selina Meyer. She was heavily involved in the conversations about how Selina should be. It was important to her that her character felt genuine and relatable. Her contribution made for a multi-dimensional character that resonated with audiences and made the show a success.
Inspiration sources
Real-life political influences
The creators of Veep took inspiration from real-life political events and figures while writing storylines for the show. This made the series more realistic, while keeping its comedic edge intact. Using actual political dynamics in their scripts, they were able to create scenarios that were both familiar and entertaining.
Creative freedom
Improvisation on set
Improvisation was also key in the filming process, which allowed actors to delve deeper into their characters. The cast was encouraged to ad-lib lines or reactions while shooting a scene, which often resulted in unexpected comedic moments. This freedom of creativity was instrumental in the natural flow of dialogue in every episode.
Diverse settings
Filming locations beyond Washington, D.C.
While Veep is set in Washington, D.C., many scenes were filmed outside this iconic city, either due to logistical reasons or because of the requirements of a specific scene. Baltimore, for example, served as a stand-in for a variety of locations depicted within episodes, without compromising on authenticity or visual appeal.
Industry acknowledgment
Awards recognition over time
Over its seven-season run from 2012 to 2019, Veep bagged several awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. These awards recognized the incredible performances of cast members like Louis-Dreyfus herself, who won six consecutive awards for the Outstanding Lead Actress in Comedy Series category, among others. These awards show the excellence achieved through collaborative efforts behind the scenes, too!