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Erin Foster responds to criticism about how Jewish women are depicted in ‘Nobody Wants This’

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Erin Foster responds to criticism about how Jewish women are depicted in 'Nobody Wants This'

As a writer and storyteller, I wholeheartedly appreciate Erin Foster’s approach to creating “Nobody Wants This.” Her commitment to portraying cultural nuances authentically is commendable, especially when it comes to Jewish immigrant experiences that differ significantly from those rooted in American culture.

This year, not many shows have managed to resonate as powerfully as “Nobody Wants This” did. The romantic comedy garnered almost universal acclaim from critics, with one going so far as to say it was as humorous as “When Harry Met Sally”. Within hours of its release, it climbed to the top of Netflix’s Top 10 list for TV series and has already inspired hundreds of memes featuring Adam Brody on social media.

However, while many are embracing Erin Foster’s latest series, there are concerns within the Jewish community about whether it might be reinforcing harmful stereotypes regarding Jewish women.

The TV show titled “Nobody Wants This” revolves around Joanne (played by Kristen Bell), a podcast host without religious beliefs, who becomes involved with Noah (Brody), a well-known religious leader in his temple, affectionately called the “hot rabbi.” As they build their relationship, Joanne encounters resistance from Noah’s Jewish family. Despite her offer to convert to Judaism, his parents, immigrants from Russia, are hesitant to accept her. His sister-in-law remains staunchly devoted to Noah’s ex-Jewish partner, going so far as to call Joanne a derogatory name outside of a bar. Interestingly, this ex had already begun wearing an engagement ring that Noah had hidden, before he even proposed to her.

Jessica Radloff wrote in Glamour that it’s hard to believe any man who watches this show would then express a desire to date a Jewish woman, because we often appear as controlling, marriage-focused women who seem to relish planning dinner parties and excluding anyone who doesn’t share our aspirations.

Erin Foster responds to criticism about how Jewish women are depicted in 'Nobody Wants This'

The television series was influenced by Foster’s genuine love story: She found herself attracted to a man of Jewish faith who strongly desired a partner who shared his religion. As a result, she underwent conversion. Now, approximately five years have passed since Foster finished this transformation – she attended a 10-week course at American Jewish University in West L.A. – yet, when entering the writers’ room, she intentionally worked alongside individuals born into Judaism. “I am Jewish,” said Foster, aged 42, “but I wasn’t brought up Jewish. It’s a distinct experience.

During the series of interviews prior to the release of “Nobody Wants This,” concerns about the show’s representation of Judaism were already being discussed. In a conversation with The Times, later involving her husband, Simon Tikhman, Foster explained her methods for portraying the culture accurately on screen.

How do you feel about critics labeling some of the Jewish characters on the show as stereotypical?

It seems important to share uplifting stories about Jews at this moment. I find it intriguing when people question the representation of Jewish characters, like a hip, young rabbi who smokes marijuana, which goes against common stereotypes of rabbis. If I portray Jewish parents as free-spirited, nature-loving farmers in a story, some might argue that they have never encountered such Jews and claim that I don’t understand Jewish characters or my writing is off the mark, suggesting it doesn’t accurately represent the community.

Is this show influenced by your personal experiences with your spouse, who happens to be Jewish? Did you face challenges when trying to earn their family’s acceptance?

In my real-life experience, I share a wonderful relationship with Simon’s family. Over time, they’ve never had any issues with me, as embracing Judaism was a profound honor for them. To be the one who brings someone into their faith is considered the ideal daughter-in-law move, strengthening our bond in an extraordinary way.

In a TV series, conflicts are essential. I chose to include Noah’s parents as immigrants in the show because immigrant culture significantly differs from American Jewish culture. Simon’s parents, who hail from the Soviet Union, fled due to their Jewish background, which is a unique experience compared to someone raised in L.A., not having encountered the level of antisemitism they faced. This aspect holds deeper meaning and resonates more personally for them. It’s a delicate topic that strikes close to their hearts.

This is why I believe the parents in this story are not simply stereotypes; they represent a specific cultural context. Immigrant communities often have a tendency towards insularity and fear of outsiders, which stems from valid concerns. I aimed to incorporate this cultural nuance as an extra layer of differences between these characters.

Erin Foster responds to criticism about how Jewish women are depicted in 'Nobody Wants This'

Was it important for you that the actor playing Noah actually be Jewish?

I thought it was really important. We auditioned literally every Jewish actor on this earth.

It’s alright to express openly that you are seeking an actor of Jewish descent to portray a rabbi in this role. However, it seems that none of the candidates we’ve considered so far have quite captured the essence – not even Brody.

In my opinion, it seems illogical to expect an actor to embody every trait of the character they portray. It’s possible for someone who identifies as gay to play a straight character, and vice versa. However, when a non-Jewish actor plays the lead role in a show that highlights Jewish culture positively, it can feel inappropriate or incongruous to me. This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s wrong, but it doesn’t feel right for the context of the show.

What are your thoughts on the release of “Nobody Wants This” happening amidst an escalated atmosphere of anti-Semitism?

In this context, Foster clarifies that their show is not intended to delve into or comment on current global political issues. Instead, the focus remains on highlighting Jewish culture from a personal and positive perspective, incorporating lighthearted moments and educational insights about aspects of Judaism that they appreciate without overwhelming viewers with heavy-handed discussions. They believe it’s inappropriate for them to represent such a diverse group of people and prefer not to speak for so many.

How has your relationship to Judaism changed since your conversion?

After exiting the ritual bath (mikvah), I experienced a sense of panic similar to this. It was as if I were saying, “I’m not feeling truly Jewish just yet.” I had been submerged in a Jacuzzi, expecting some sort of enchantment, perhaps something akin to “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo” from a fairy tale.

I didn’t sense any change, and truth be told, I was quite terrified. Is it truly so that I am Jewish? I can’t seem to perceive any difference.

In retrospect, five years later, it’s clear to you that one truly feels Jewish not just by birth but through lived experiences. Encounters with antisemitism stir a sense of Jewish identity within you. Your conversion has deepened your Jewishness more than academic study and understanding holidays’ origins and significance. Living in 2024 with global events unfolding, it further strengthens this feeling of being Jewish.

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2024-10-01 02:32

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