‘Matlock’ Showrunner Made the Great ‘Jane the Virgin’ 10 Years Ago

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As a devoted fan of television, I have been thoroughly impressed by the remarkable career trajectory of Jennie Snyder Urman, the brilliant mind behind some of our favorite shows. Her latest project, the reboot of Matlock, is bound to be a hit, but it’s Jane the Virgin that truly showcases her extraordinary talent.

Jane the Virgin was more than just a telenovela deconstruction; it was a heartfelt story about women, family, and the complexities of Latinx culture. Urman’s ability to weave humor, drama, and authenticity into one compelling narrative is truly unparalleled. She managed to create a show that embraced its absurd premise while still telling a deeply moving story, all without succumbing to stereotypes or melodrama.

What sets Urman apart from other showrunners is her dedication to inclusivity and diversity. She recognized the need for collaborators who could lend their expertise in areas where she might lack personal experience, filling her writers’ room with Latina women and working closely with Gina Rodriguez. This approach not only enriched the story but also fostered a nurturing, creative, and genuine working atmosphere.

Urman’s time on Gilmore Girls undoubtedly played a role in developing her knack for writing mother-daughter relationships, which was instrumental in drawing her to Jane the Virgin. The show’s lighthearted tone made it enjoyable without feeling too heavy, while its post-production edits and literary narrator kept viewers hooked.

What I find most impressive is Urman’s commitment to her vision. She developed Jane the Virgin with a specific ending in mind, keeping the audience guessing throughout its five seasons. This approach, going against the profit-focused efforts of many networks and showrunners, paid off handsomely. If Matlock is anything to go by, I have no doubt that it will be in excellent hands.

To wrap things up, let me leave you with a little joke: When asked about her secret to creating successful TV shows, Urman replied, “I just add a dash of humor, a pinch of drama, and a whole lot of heart. And don’t forget the freeze frames!” Her ability to find the perfect balance is truly remarkable, and I can’t wait to see what she does next!

CBS is rejoicing in the success of its highly anticipated 2024 remake of the beloved show “Matlock.” With Kathy Bates stepping into the lead role and a rich history to draw upon, it’s no wonder this reboot has been a hit (and even renewed for a second season). Given Jennie Snyder Urman’s extensive background in television writing and production, spanning shows like “Hope & Faith,” “Gilmore Girls,” “Charmed,” and many more, it’s hardly surprising that the new “Matlock” is doing so well. Notably, Urman’s most significant achievement to date might be the CW show “Jane the Virgin,” which ran from 2014 to 2019 and was inspired by a Venezuelan soap opera from 2002.

A Family Comedy Deconstructs the Telenovela

In the series “Jane the Virgin,” I find myself captivated by the story of Jane Gloriana Villanueva, a young woman in her twenties who had sworn to abstain from sexual relationships before marriage. However, an unforeseen incident occurs when she’s accidentally artificially inseminated by her doctor, setting off a whirlwind of changes in her life as she grapples with pregnancy and motherhood. As if that wasn’t enough, Jane finds herself entangled in a romantic triangle involving her boyfriend, Michael Cordero Jr., and the biological father of her child, Rafael Solano.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I find myself deeply connected to the characters in “Jane the Virgin.” Born from a teenage pregnancy, my own relationship with my vibrant mother, Xiomara “Xo” Gloriana Villanueva, mirrors many of Jane’s experiences. The series boasts an exceptional cast: Andrea Navedo portrays Xo, Yael Grobglas plays the cunning Petra Solano, wife to Rafael; Ivonne Coll brings Alba Gloriana Villanueva, my grandmother, to life with her devout spirit; and Jaime Camil embodies Rogelio de la Vega, my father. This captivating show beautifully weaves family dynamics with the richness of Latinx culture, making it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates compelling storytelling.

Jane the Virgin was Beloved by Many

Regardless of the unconventional concept, Jane the Virgin’s fusion of comedy, drama, sharp dialogue, intricate storylines, and Urman’s commitment to authenticity resonated strongly with audiences. It swiftly amassed a passionate fanbase and garnered acclaim from industry professionals; it was nominated for Golden Globes, won a Peabody Award in 2014, was acknowledged by the American Film Institute, and consistently appeared on numerous Top 10 lists during its five-season broadcast.

What Made ‘Jane the Virgin’ So Great?

As a passionate fan of telenovelas and someone who appreciates well-crafted stories, I can empathize with Amy Sherman-Palladino’s challenge when she set out to create a modern take on the genre for American audiences. Given my background in media and entertainment, I understand the pressure to conform to stereotypes and over-the-top melodrama that often plagues this type of storytelling. However, Amy’s determination to give her series credibility is commendable, especially considering she knew the importance of having diverse collaborators on board.

Amy’s decision to fill her writers’ room with several Latina women and closely work with Gina Rodriguez was a smart move that demonstrated a deep understanding of the nuances and complexities of the Latinx culture. By doing so, Amy not only enriched the narrative but also provided opportunities for underrepresented voices to be heard. I’m excited to see how her work will contribute to breaking down barriers and opening doors for more diverse storytelling in the future.

I’m particularly thrilled that Gina Rodriguez, who has recently been cast in Will Trent Season 3, is part of this project. As someone who has followed her career closely, I have no doubt that she will bring her talent and passion to the table, ensuring that the series remains authentic and engaging for viewers. Overall, Amy Sherman-Palladino’s dedication to creating a credible telenovela is a step in the right direction for representation and diversity in the entertainment industry.

In an interview with Vulture, Urman shared that while she may not be a young Latina, she could empathize with being diligent, ambitious, and navigating intricate mother-daughter dynamics. She enriched the project by contributing her unique perspective and recruiting others to supplement areas where her personal experiences were limited, fostering an environment that the writers, actors, and crew found welcoming, innovative, and authentic.

A significant factor contributing to the popularity of “Jane the Virgin” lay in its playful approach, skillfully incorporating soap opera conventions with a self-deprecating humor, yet maintaining an emotionally resonant narrative about female characters. Urman attributes her experience working on “Gilmore Girls” for teaching her how to portray mother-daughter dynamics, which initially attracted her to the project.

Jennie Snyder Urman Knows How to Make a Hit TV Show

As you delve into an engaging storyline that encompasses themes such as growing up, family heritage, immigration, and social class, “Jane the Virgin” maintains a cheerful demeanor, making it effortless to watch and appreciate without being overly serious. Its creative post-production elements, including freeze frames and graphic overlays, add charm, while the narrator’s literary, almost fairytale-like style keeps viewers captivated.

Jennifer Espada created “Jane the Virgin” with a predetermined ending, and maintaining suspense throughout its five seasons was more impactful than crafting a series that could continue endlessly and potentially lose steam. This approach goes against the profit-driven strategies of many broadcast networks and producers, but Espada stayed true to her vision, which ultimately proved successful. If “Matlock” is any indication, the new series is in capable hands.

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2024-12-30 05:34