Podcast Summary: "The 'Bad Sisters' Are Back, and They're Better Than Ever"
Consider This from NPR
Release Date: November 22, 2024
Host: Mary Louise Kelly
Guest: Sharon Horgan, Creator and Star of Bad Sisters
Duration: 9 minutes and 14 seconds
Introduction to Bad Sisters
The episode opens with Mary Louise Kelly inviting listeners into the darkly comedic world of the Garvey sisters from the Apple TV series Bad Sisters. Kelly reminisces about meeting the sisters two years prior when the show debuted, highlighting its central plot: four Irish sisters conspiring to murder the fifth sister's husband.
Notable Quote:
- Mary Louise Kelly [00:00]: "If you, like me, are ready for a hefty dose of black comedy, may I invite you to catch up with the Garvey sisters?"
Season One Recap and the Unexpected Continuation
Sharon Horgan, both the creator and actress in Bad Sisters, joins Kelly to discuss the show's unexpected continuation into a second season. Originally, the series was not intended to extend beyond its first season, which concluded with a seemingly perfect ending as the youngest sister, Grace, appears to move on from her tumultuous past.
Notable Quote:
- Sharon Horgan [03:00]: "You don't just kill a man and move on."
Exploring the Aftermath in Season Two
Horgan elaborates on the narrative thrust of the second season, set two years after Grace's husband dies. Although Grace appears to have found new love and is preparing for marriage, the repercussions of past events linger, sowing seeds for new conflicts and challenges.
Notable Quotes:
- Horgan [02:23]: "It's two years on from that. And, you know, we join the sisters when they are getting on with their lives as best they can."
- Mary Louise Kelly [02:58]: "She looks so beautiful."
The Fragility of Sisterhood and Trust Issues
A central theme in the new season is the testing of the sisters' bond. The introduction of secrets and underlying tensions raises questions about the trustworthiness among them. Horgan discusses how the characters grapple with isolation and hidden truths, leading to dramatic shifts in their relationships.
Notable Quote:
- Sharon Horgan [04:10]: "It feels like a dangerous but very interesting, deep area to explore."
Introducing Angelica: A New Dynamic
Season two introduces Angelica, portrayed by Fiona Shaw, adding a new layer of complexity to the story. Angelica, a Northern Irish woman, disrupts the sisters' dynamics with her traditional values and desire for human connection, embodying both vulnerability and a propensity to cause turmoil.
Notable Quotes:
- Horgan [05:10]: "She is just slightly generationally removed and also geographically, she's a Northern Irish woman."
- Mary Louise Kelly [06:16]: "She's just the definition of passive aggression and upping your business."
Balancing Dark Themes with Humor
Despite the season's dark undertones, the show maintains its comedic edge. Moments of levity, such as Eva introducing her "menopause coach," provide a counterbalance to the intense drama, showcasing Horgan's skill in blending humor with serious topics.
Notable Quotes:
- Mary Louise Kelly [06:36]: "There are moments when I was laughing out loud."
- Sharon Horgan [07:06]: "I had started seeing a lady online. Not what I would call a menopause coach, but they do exist."
Authenticity and Audience Connection
Horgan emphasizes the importance of staying true to the story and characters rather than tailoring content to appease specific audiences. This authentic approach has resonated deeply with viewers, particularly women who have experienced similar struggles, reinforcing the show's impact.
Notable Quotes:
- Horgan [08:00]: "You have to write what's interesting to you and what you hope is gonna appeal."
- Mary Louise Kelly [08:24]: "If I find this funny, the rest of you should get on board."
Conclusion and Future Directions
As the episode wraps up, Horgan expresses her commitment to delivering unexpected yet truthful storylines, ensuring that the second season of Bad Sisters continues to engage and resonate with its audience. The collaboration between Kelly and Horgan highlights the show's blend of dark comedy, intricate character development, and emotional depth.
Notable Quotes:
- Horgan [08:24]: "That's all I can do and then cross my fingers. Cross everything."
- Mary Louise Kelly [09:07]: "Thank you so much. This has been an absolute delight."
Produced by Katherine Fink, edited by Sarah Handel and Courtney Dorning, with Sammy Yenigun as Executive Producer.
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