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Behind the Scenes of ‘Seinfeld’
In the pantheon of television history, few shows have achieved the legendary status of ‘Seinfeld’. This “show about nothing” redefined the sitcom genre and left an indelible mark on popular culture. Created by comedian Jerry Seinfeld and writer Larry David, ‘Seinfeld’ became a beloved staple in households across America and beyond. But what was the secret sauce behind its success? How did a show with such an unconventional premise capture the hearts of millions? Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of ‘Seinfeld’, from its inception to its rise as one of the greatest TV shows ever.
The Origin of ‘Seinfeld’
NBC’s Interest: In 1988, NBC executive Rick Ludwin recognized Jerry Seinfeld’s comedic talent and growing popularity and approached him with the idea of creating a sitcom. Ludwin believed Seinfeld’s unique brand of humor could translate well into a television series and provide a fresh, engaging show for NBC’s lineup.
Seinfeld’s Collaboration: Jerry Seinfeld, already an established stand-up comedian with a distinctive observational style, decided he needed a creative partner to bring the sitcom to life. He teamed up with his friend Larry David, another comedian and writer known for his sharp wit and unconventional comedic perspective. Together, they formed the creative nucleus that would drive the show.
Brainstorming Sessions: Seinfeld and David began intensive brainstorming sessions, drawing heavily from their own lives and comedic sensibilities. They wanted to create a show that deviated from typical sitcom formulas. Instead of focusing on dramatic or sentimental story arcs, they aimed to highlight the humor found in the trivial and mundane aspects of everyday life.
Conceptualization: The duo conceptualized a show where “nothing” significant happened—no overarching plotlines or moral lessons, just a series of humorous observations and interactions. This concept was revolutionary, aiming to capture the absurdities and idiosyncrasies of everyday experiences, much like Seinfeld’s stand-up routines.
Pitch to NBC: Armed with this unique concept, Seinfeld and David pitched the idea to NBC executives. They emphasized the show’s fresh angle, grounded in realistic, relatable scenarios rather than the exaggerated plots typical of the time. The network saw potential in this novel approach and decided to take a chance on it.
Green Light for Pilot: NBC approved the creation of a pilot episode to test the waters. This pilot, initially titled ‘The Seinfeld Chronicles,’ was to serve as a proof of concept, demonstrating the show’s unique comedic style and its potential to engage audiences.
Creating the Pilot: The pilot episode was written and produced by Seinfeld and David, who infused it with their distinct comedic voices. ‘The Seinfeld Chronicles’ featured Jerry as a fictionalized version of himself, navigating the quirks of everyday life with his eccentric friends.
Pilot Airing: The pilot aired on July 5, 1989. Although the response was modest, it showed promise. The episode’s unconventional style and observational humor intrigued a segment of the audience, suggesting that with further development, it could attract a more significant following.
NBC’s Commitment: Despite the initial lukewarm ratings, NBC recognized the show’s potential. Rick Ludwin, in particular, was a strong advocate for ‘Seinfeld.’ He persuaded the network to invest in a short first season, consisting of four additional episodes, to give the show a fair chance to find its footing.
Overcoming Challenges: The first season was challenging. The show faced skepticism within the network and struggled with ratings. However, the creative team remained committed to their vision. Rick Ludwin’s continued support played a crucial role in keeping the show alive during these early stages.
Early Reception: As the episodes continued to air, ‘Seinfeld’ began to develop a cult following. Viewers appreciated its departure from traditional sitcom tropes, and word of mouth started to spread. This growing fan base encouraged NBC to keep the show going.
Further Development: Encouraged by the positive feedback, NBC invested more in the show, ordering additional episodes and seasons. Seinfeld and David continued to refine the show’s format, enhancing its unique style and deepening its comedic impact.
Increasing Popularity: By the third season, ‘Seinfeld’ had found its rhythm. The show’s humor and relatable content began to resonate with a broader audience. Ratings improved significantly, and the show solidified its place in NBC’s prime-time lineup.
Establishing a Writing Team: To sustain the show’s high quality, a talented writing team was assembled. Led by Larry David, the team included writers like Peter Mehlman, Larry Charles, and Tom Gammill. Their combined efforts contributed to the show’s innovative storytelling and rich humor.
Continued Success: Each subsequent season is built on the previous one, with episodes becoming more interconnected and complex. The show’s distinctive format—multiple storylines converging in unexpected ways—kept audiences engaged and eager for more.
Final Season Decision: As ‘Seinfeld’ entered its ninth season, both Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David felt it was time to end the show on a high note. They wanted to avoid the risk of the show declining in quality or becoming repetitive. This decision ensured that ‘Seinfeld’ would be remembered for its peak performance.
Series Finale: The series finale aired on May 14, 1998, and became one of the most anticipated television events of the decade. The finale’s courtroom-style conclusion received mixed reviews from fans and critics alike. However, it undeniably cemented ‘Seinfeld’s’ legacy as a cultural phenomenon, ending on its terms and leaving a lasting impact on television history.
Casting Decisions: The Perfect Ensemble
The success of ‘Seinfeld’ is in no small part due to its perfect ensemble cast. Each actor brought a unique flair to their character, creating a dynamic and memorable group. Here’s a detailed look at the casting decisions that helped make ‘Seinfeld’ a television legend.
Jerry Seinfeld as Jerry Seinfeld
Casting Jerry Seinfeld as a fictionalized version of himself was an obvious choice, given that the show was built around his stand-up comedy. His routines often provided the backbone of the show’s humor, setting the tone for each episode. Seinfeld’s natural charm and impeccable comedic timing made him the perfect centerpiece for the series. Initially, there was little debate about who would play the main character. Jerry Seinfeld’s presence was the anchor around which the rest of the show would revolve, offering a consistent and relatable touchstone for the audience.
Jason Alexander as George Costanza
The casting of George Costanza was a more involved process. George, inspired by Larry David himself, needed to embody a neurotic yet endearing quality. Initially, several actors were considered for the role. Nathan Lane, known for his comedic talent, was one of the actors in the running. However, Jason Alexander ultimately won the part. Alexander, an accomplished actor and Tony Award winner brought George a perfect blend of insecurity and brashness. His portrayal captured the essence of a man perpetually down on his luck yet constantly scheming for a way out. Alexander’s ability to channel Larry David’s unique mannerisms and quirks into George made him an ideal fit for the role.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Elaine Benes
Elaine Benes was not part of the original pilot, which featured only male characters. NBC executives suggested adding a female character to balance the cast and broaden the show’s appeal. Several actresses were considered for the role, including Rosie O’Donnell and Megan Mullally. However, Julia Louis-Dreyfus ultimately landed the part. Louis-Dreyfus’ comedic prowess, honed from her time on ‘Saturday Night Live,’ and her effortless chemistry with the cast made her an indispensable addition. Elaine’s character brought a fresh dynamic to the show, often serving as the voice of reason amidst the chaos, yet she had her quirks and comedic moments that endeared her to audiences.
Michael Richards as Cosmo Kramer
The role of Kramer, Jerry’s eccentric neighbor, was initially envisioned differently. Early on, actors like Larry Hankin, who would later guest-star as Tom Pepper, Kramer’s actor double in the show-within-a-show in ‘Seinfeld’, were considered. However, Michael Richards’ audition was transformative. His physical comedy, characterized by sudden, unpredictable movements and wild energy, set him apart. Richards’ improvisational skills were unparalleled, and he quickly made Kramer’s character his own. His trademark entrances, bizarre schemes, and quirky personality made Kramer one of television’s most memorable and beloved characters. Richards’ ability to bring a sense of chaos and unpredictability to the role added a vital, hilarious element to the show.
The Supporting Cast
Beyond the core four, ‘Seinfeld’ featured an array of supporting characters who became iconic in their own right. Wayne Knight’s portrayal of Newman, Jerry’s nemesis, was a standout. Knight brought a perfect mix of hostility and comedy to the role, creating one of the show’s most memorable antagonists. Other notable recurring characters include Estelle Harris and Jerry Stiller as George’s parents, whose over-the-top arguments and eccentric behaviors added depth and hilarity to George’s backstory.
The casting decisions behind ‘Seinfeld’ were crucial to its success. Each actor brought something unique to their role, creating a perfect ensemble that worked seamlessly together. This dynamic cast, combined with the show’s innovative writing and unique comedic perspective, helped ‘Seinfeld’ become the cultural phenomenon it is today.
Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Magic
The Writers’ Room
The success of ‘Seinfeld’ can be attributed to its exceptional writing team. Larry David’s influence was profound; his keen observations of life’s trivialities formed the foundation of the show’s humor. The writers’ room, consisting of talented individuals like Peter Mehlman, Larry Charles, and Tom Gammill, was a hotbed of creativity. They crafted episodes that turned the mundane into the hilarious.
Innovative Storytelling
‘Seinfeld’ broke away from traditional sitcom norms. Episodes often featured multiple interconnected storylines, a technique known as “dense scripting.” This approach kept the audience engaged and allowed for more complex humor. Additionally, the show eschewed sentimentalism, opting instead for a more cynical and realistic portrayal of life.
Memorable Episodes
Some episodes of ‘Seinfeld’ have achieved legendary status. “The Contest,” where the characters bet on who can remain “master of their domain” the longest, pushed boundaries and became a cultural touchstone. “The Soup Nazi,” with its unforgettable catchphrase “No soup for you!” showcased the show’s ability to create iconic moments. These episodes, among others, exemplify the brilliance of ‘Seinfeld.’
The Final Season
As ‘Seinfeld’ entered its ninth season, the decision to end the show was mutual between Seinfeld and David. They wanted to leave on a high note rather than risk the show losing its edge. The series finale, which aired on May 14, 1998, was one of the most anticipated television events of the decade. While it received mixed reviews, it cemented ‘Seinfeld’s’ legacy as a cultural phenomenon.
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Trivia: Did You Know?
No Hugging, No Learning: Larry David maintained a strict “no hugging, no learning” policy throughout the show’s run. This rule was designed to keep the series from becoming overly sentimental or moralistic, ensuring that the humor remained sharp and focused on the absurdities of everyday life.
Real-Life Inspirations: Many episodes of ‘Seinfeld’ were inspired by actual events and experiences from the writers’ lives, particularly Larry David. For instance, the infamous “Soup Nazi” episode was based on a real soup stand in New York City, and the episode “The Contest” was drawn from a personal experience of David’s. These real-life inspirations gave the show a sense of authenticity and relatability.
The Puffy Shirt: The puffy shirt from the episode “The Puffy Shirt” became an iconic symbol of the show. This ridiculous piece of clothing, which Jerry is tricked into wearing on a TV show, is now part of the Smithsonian Institution’s collection, recognizing its cultural significance and its role in one of the series’ most memorable moments.
Newman’s Introduction: Wayne Knight’s character, Newman, was initially introduced only as a voice in the second season episode “The Revenge.” The character was not intended to become a recurring presence. However, his on-screen debut and subsequent popularity transformed him into one of the show’s most beloved antagonists, known for his rivalry with Jerry.
Julia’s Pregnancy: During the third season, Julia Louis-Dreyfus was pregnant with her first child. Creative filming techniques were used to hide her baby bump to keep Elaine’s character consistent and not write the pregnancy into the show. This included using oversized clothing, strategic props, and camera angles.
Kramer’s First Name: Cosmo Kramer, one of television’s most eccentric characters, had his first name revealed only in the sixth season during the episode “The Switch.” Before this reveal, he was known only as Kramer, adding to the mystery and quirky charm of the character.
Festivus: The holiday Festivus, introduced in the episode “The Strike,” was based on an actual holiday created by the father of writer Dan O’Keefe. Festivus featured unique traditions like the “Airing of Grievances” and “Feats of Strength,” becoming a popular cultural reference and even celebrated by fans in real life.
The Theme Song: Jonathan Wolff composed the show’s distinctive theme song, with its bass-heavy riff. Interestingly, it was re-recorded for each episode to match the timing and rhythm of Jerry’s opening stand-up routine, ensuring a seamless transition from comedy club to the sitcom.
Elaine’s Dance: Elaine Benes’ infamous “bad dancing” was a highlight of the episode “The Little Kicks.” Julia Louis-Dreyfus based these awkward dance moves on her own self-described poor dancing skills, creating one of the show’s most memorable and cringe-worthy moments.
George’s Glasses: Jason Alexander, who played George Costanza, wears glasses in real life. This detail was incorporated into his character, making George’s reliance on his glasses a recurring element of his neurotic and insecure personality.
Soup Nazi Inspiration: The character of the Soup Nazi, portrayed by Larry Thomas in the episode “The Soup Nazi,” was inspired by Al Yeganeh, an actual soup vendor in New York City known for his strict rules and delicious soups. Yeganeh was reportedly not pleased with his portrayal but acknowledged the attention it brought to his business.
Jerry’s Apartment: Throughout the series, the layout of Jerry’s apartment underwent slight changes. These adjustments were made to accommodate different camera angles and storylines, reflecting the show’s evolving production needs.
Cast Salaries: By the final season of ‘Seinfeld,’ the prominent cast members—Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jason Alexander, and Michael Richards—earned $1 million per episode. This milestone underscored the show’s immense success and the value of its stars.
Finale Backlash: The series finale of ‘Seinfeld,’ which aired on May 14, 1998, received mixed reviews from fans and critics. The courtroom-style conclusion, which brought back numerous characters from past episodes, was polarizing, with some praising its ambition and others feeling it was a letdown.
Art Vandelay: George Costanza often used the name Art Vandelay as an alias, which became a running gag throughout the series. George frequently used this pseudonym to fabricate a job, business, or person, adding to his character’s reputation as a chronic liar and schemer.
Larry David’s Cameos: Larry David, co-creator of ‘Seinfeld,’ made several cameo appearances on the show. Most notably, he provided the voice of George Steinbrenner, George Costanza’s boss at the New York Yankees. David also appeared in minor roles and provided off-screen voices, adding an extra layer of humor for fans aware of his involvement.
Julia’s Audition: Julia Louis-Dreyfus initially auditioned for the role of Jerry’s ex-girlfriend in the first season’s second episode. While the role went to someone else, her audition impressed the producers, leading to her being cast as Elaine Benes, a decision that significantly enhanced the show’s dynamic.
Catchphrases: ‘Seinfeld’ contributed numerous catchphrases to popular culture. Phrases like “Yada Yada Yada,” “No soup for you,” “Serenity now,” and “Master of your domain” have entered the everyday vocabulary, demonstrating the show’s lasting impact on language and humor.
Real Names: Several characters on ‘Seinfeld’ were named after real people. For example, Kenny Kramer, a neighbor of Larry David, inspired the character of Cosmo Kramer. These real-life connections added an element of authenticity and inside humor for those familiar with the backstories.
Reunion Shows: Despite persistent fan demand, there has never been a ‘Seinfeld’ reunion show. The cast has, however, reunited for various projects, including a meta-reunion on Larry David’s ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and numerous interviews and public appearances, giving fans occasional glimpses of the magic they created together.
Goofs and Errors
Jerry’s Changing Apartment Number: In the first few episodes of the series, Jerry’s apartment number is 411. However, from the middle of the first season onwards, his apartment number becomes 5A. The show never addresses the inconsistency, and the change remains unexplained.
The Disappearing Apartment Hallway: The hallway layout outside Jerry’s apartment changes multiple times throughout the series. In some episodes, additional doors lead to other apartments; in others, the hallway appears narrower and has fewer doors. These changes are likely due to different set designs used during filming.
Kramer’s Mystery Apartment Door: Kramer’s apartment door is sometimes shown directly across from Jerry’s door, while in other episodes, it is slightly off to the side. This inconsistency can be confusing, as the exact placement of Kramer’s apartment relative to Jerry’s is not always consistent.
Elaine’s Birth Year: The show inconsistently mentions Elaine’s birth year. In the episode “The Truth” (Season 3), she says she was born in 1966. However, in “The Andrea Doria” (Season 8), she claims she was born in 1961. This five-year discrepancy is never clarified.
George’s Glasses: George Costanza wears glasses throughout the series, but his eyewear has noticeable differences. In some scenes, his glasses have clear lenses, suggesting they are just props, while in others, he appears to wear actual prescription glasses. This inconsistency is likely due to prop changes.
Jerry’s Car Make and Model: Jerry Seinfeld is seen driving different makes and models of cars throughout the series, including a Saab 900, a BMW 5 Series, and a Porsche 911. No storyline explains these changes, reflecting a continuity oversight regarding Jerry’s vehicle preferences.
Kramer’s Employment History: Kramer’s employment status is highly inconsistent. While often depicted as unemployed, he occasionally references past jobs and business ventures, such as working at a bagel shop, publishing a coffee table book about coffee tables, and even being a stand-in on a soap opera. The timeline of these jobs is never straightforward.
The Shrinking George: George Costanza’s height is inconsistently referred to throughout the series. Jason Alexander, the actor who plays George, is 5’5″, but the character’s height is sometimes exaggerated or minimized for comedic effect, leading to humorous inconsistencies.
Elaine’s Apartment Location: Elaine’s apartment address has changed several times. In “The Race” (Season 6), Elaine’s address is given as 16 W. 75th Street. However, in “The Truth” (Season 3), her address is said to be 155 W. 83rd Street. The varying addresses are never explained.
Jerry’s Parents’ Apartment: The layout of Jerry’s parents’ Florida apartment in Del Boca Vista changes between episodes. In some scenes, the apartment has a hallway leading to bedrooms, while in others, the layout is more open. These changes reflect differences in set design rather than continuity within the story.
Susan’s Last Name: George’s fiancée Susan’s last name changes from Ross to Biddle Ross at different points in the series. Initially introduced as Susan Ross, later episodes refer to her with the double-barreled surname Biddle Ross, but no explanation is given for the change.
Kramer’s First Name Reveal: Kramer’s first name, Cosmo, is not revealed until the episode “The Switch” in Season 6. Before this, he is known as Kramer. However, in earlier episodes, characters occasionally call him by other first names, hinting at a lack of consistency in character development.
The Vanishing Intercom: The intercom at the entrance to Jerry’s apartment building appears and disappears throughout the series. In some episodes, characters use it to buzz in visitors, while in others, it is absent, leading to continuity issues.
George’s Changing Offices: George’s office at the New York Yankees changed layout and decoration multiple times. Sometimes, his office has a window, while other times, it is windowless. These changes occur without any narrative explanation, reflecting set design adjustments.
Jerry’s Bike: The bicycle hanging in Jerry’s apartment changes models and colors throughout the series. It begins as a green Klein mountain bike but later becomes a silver Cannondale. The reason for these changes is never addressed, adding to the show’s minor continuity errors.
Elaine’s Hair Color: Elaine’s hair color varies throughout the series, ranging from dark brown to red to blonde. These changes are never explained within the storyline, reflecting the character’s evolving style and possibly the actress’s personal preference or creative decisions by the show’s producers.
Newman’s Job Title: Newman’s job and duties as a postal worker change inconsistently throughout the series. In some episodes, he is portrayed as a simple mailman; in others, he is shown to have more authority or different roles within the postal service. The lack of a consistent job description adds to the character’s mysterious persona.
Jerry’s Refrigerator: The items on Jerry’s refrigerator, such as magnets and photos, frequently change positions or disappear between scenes. These subtle changes reflect minor continuity oversights by the props department.
George’s Car Mishap: In “The Mom & Pop Store” (Season 6), George refers to driving a LeBaron. However, he drives different cars in other episodes, including a Chrysler LeBaron convertible and a different model entirely. The inconsistency in George’s vehicle is never explained.
The Mysterious Library Cop: Lt. Bookman, the library cop, references events and books with changing details. For example, in “The Library” (Season 3), Bookman talks about a book Jerry allegedly borrowed in 1971, but inconsistencies in dates and events are evident in his speech. This is likely intended for comedic effect but is still a continuity error.
These goofs and errors contribute to the charm and complexity of ‘Seinfeld,’ offering fans fun details to spot and discuss and highlighting the challenges of maintaining continuity over a long-running sitcom.
Conclusion
Seinfeld remains a timeless masterpiece that continues to entertain new generations of viewers. Its unique blend of humor, innovative storytelling, and memorable characters set it apart as one of the greatest TV shows ever made. The journey from a struggling pilot to a cultural juggernaut is a testament to the vision and talent of its creators and cast.
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