Movies

No one has higher expectations for ‘Suits LA’ than the creator of the ‘Suits’ universe

BBG News

Aaron Korsh dislikes contemplating expectations. To him, it’s a futile mental exercise beyond his direct influence. However, as the architect of a cable legal drama (“Suits”), which ended approximately six years ago and astonishingly became the most-streamed show of 2023 on Netflix, he can’t help but acknowledge the impending judgments. But Korsh emphasizes that he focuses more on achieving his personal standards and the upcoming quasi spinoff series, premiering this Sunday on NBC, rather than worrying about everyone else’s opinions.

Korsh expressed on the set of “Suits LA” earlier this month that he’s constantly overwhelmed due to his desire for the project to be something he can be genuinely proud of. However, since he has no influence over how it will be received, he focuses solely on whether he loves it and if he feels pride in it.

58-year-old Korsh seldom graces the “Suits LA” film set, preferring instead to spend his time collaborating with the show’s writers at a leased office on the Fox lot in Century City. However, he values the chance to visit when possible, particularly during crucial scenes for creating the show’s narrative. He found it less feasible and less frequent during the primary series, which was filmed in Toronto.

In the past, Korsh found himself as a newcomer in TV creation and showrunning, guiding one of USA network’s “blue sky” shows, known for their upbeat and engaging dramas like “White Collar” and “Monk”. His polished legal drama, focusing on the charismatic corporate attorney Harvey Specter (played by Gabriel Macht) and his unconventional associate Mike Ross (portrayed by Patrick J. Adams), who had an exceptional memory but lacked a law degree, was initially designed to center around investment bankers, given Korsh’s background in that field. However, due to the convenience of constructing an episodic plotline around cases, it evolved into a legal drama instead.

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Back in June 2011, when “Suits” first graced our screens, it was a time when TV was usually quieter. The big hits back then were mostly reality shows like “American Idol” and “Dancing With the Stars.” Meanwhile, Netflix, which started as a DVD-by-mail service, was still expanding its streaming division and dipping its toes into creating original content. As a movie buff reminiscing about those days, I can’t help but feel nostalgic for the unexpected gems that emerged during such quiet periods!

Currently, Korsh is deep into filming episode seven on a soundstage at NBCUniversal, surrounded by various screens displaying the unfolding scene. In the show’s imaginary legal world, a gathering of fictional lawyers are discussing business matters in a glass conference room within their opulent offices – much like how meetings can occur in real life. However, even in this high-stakes scenario, just as in reality, the meeting could have easily been conducted via an email instead.

But tone is being established. And that has Korsh’s focus.

In the midst of the unfolding scene, a secondary character delivers an impromptu joke involving Harvard University, which is famously associated with “Suits.” This humor prompts actor Patrick J. Adams (Korsh) to burst out laughing.

For Korsh, who initially found his footing in television as a writer’s assistant on sitcoms, the lighthearted moments became just as essential to “Suits” throughout its nine-season journey as the character conflicts and power struggles. As a result, he savors those instances when they naturally emerge, often wondering if the witty line will ultimately be included in the final script.

Anton Cropper, who directed on the original “Suits” and now serves as an executive producer, comments between takes on the set: “Aaron’s writing style has a distinct rhythm and mood to it, which is one of the things that makes the original series so unique. I don’t find him difficult to amuse, but when something catches him off guard, it’s quite entertaining.

“Suits LA,” like its predecessor, isn’t what it initially set out to be.

During the production of “Suits,” Aaron Korsh conceived a television series centered around Hollywood dealmakers, led by an ex-prosecutor turned agent. He explains that the show is loosely based on an agent who attempted to represent him; this agent had spent his legal past imprisoning members of the mob. After completing “Suits” and experiencing listlessness due to the pandemic, Korsh found inspiration to develop this idea into a script. Initially, the project was called “Ted.

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In my opinion, the series I was part of on USA Network, featuring Meghan Markle, gained immense popularity across various streaming platforms. Yet, despite this success, it’s disheartening to see that many of us behind the scenes aren’t reaping the full rewards. This situation highlights the crux of the ongoing writers’ strike, where fair compensation and recognition for everyone involved is at stake.

Korsh had discussions about it on two occasions with NBCUniversal Television, and Netflix’s chief Ted Sarandos has publicly acknowledged that Korsh pitched the idea to Netflix. During their initial conversation, the suggestion was made to transform the characters from agents into lawyers. This alteration, as Korsh realized, significantly improved the original “Suits”. He saw a similar narrative potential in this new setting. As he explains, “I introduced the criminal law aspect instead of just entertainment law, thereby providing the show with a broader base.

Apart from mentioning that the initial episode was packed with flashbacks, approximately 15 scenes set in the past were included. He suggested completely eliminating these during the writing process. Throughout the developmental phase, some of them were indeed removed. (In other words, he planned to unfold the flashback storyline throughout the entire first season.)

Despite the transformations, nonetheless, the concept was overlooked by the production house initially. However, it found its opportunity following a sequence of incidents: there were administrative changes within the studio, simultaneous labor disputes in Hollywood ensued, and the “Suits” phenomenon on Netflix occurred.

As a dedicated cinephile looking back on those days, I was absolutely certain that once the strike had ended, I’d receive a call from NBCU, eager to move forward with our project. Little did I know they would propose ‘Suits LA’ as the title. Frankly, the title didn’t matter much to me.

The show “Suits LA” switches from skyscraper conflicts to glamorous Hollywood feuds, featuring a fresh cast of stylish and ambitious lawyers. Starring Stephen Amell (“Arrow”) as Ted Black, a former New York federal prosecutor with complex family issues who transformed into a prominent entertainment lawyer at Black Lane, the firm he co-founded with his best friend, criminal lawyer Stuart Lane (Josh McDermitt from “The Walking Dead”). They’re accompanied by two ambitious associates, portrayed by Bryan Greenberg and Lex Scott Davis, competing for the prestigious position of head of entertainment. This sets up a drama filled with betrayal, loyalty struggles, romantic undertones, and name-dropping (though with fewer curse words compared to the original “Suits”). Unlike its predecessor, it doesn’t intend to mirror real-life celebrity legal cases like Justin Baldoni-Blake Lively’s, but some of the writing team does discuss Hollywood gossip.

Suits LA” could potentially be seen as a spin-off, albeit unplanned, from Korsh’s legal universe, but it’s not the initial one. A previous spin-off named “Pearson” was centered around Jessica Pearson, Harvey’s influential mentor portrayed by Gina Torres, as she transitioned from law to Chicago politics. It debuted in 2019, however, it only ran for a single season before being canceled. Korsh expresses pride in the endeavor but believes its more somber tone might have made it less enticing for “Suits” viewers. Similar to “Pearson”, “Suits LA” will include some characters from the original series; Macht will return as Harvey in a recurring guest role, portraying Ted’s former associate.

That’s where expectations come into play.

Originally airing, “Suits” was among the highest-rated cable shows and inspired versions in South Korea and Japan. However, it found a revitalized, expanded audience during the streaming era (available not only on Netflix but also Peacock). In 2023 alone, American viewers consumed an astounding 57.7 billion minutes of “Suits”, making it the most-watched show that year, as reported by Nielsen. The intrigue surrounding Meghan Markle, who played Rachel Zane, the longtime paralegal in the series and is linked to the British royal family, may have fueled some of this popularity.

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1. Mike Ross, portrayed by Patrick J. Adams, and Harvey Specter, played by Gabriel Macht, from the series “Suits.” (Photo by Steve Wilkie / USA Network)

2. In “Suits,” we see Patrick J. Adams as Mike Ross and Meghan Markle playing Rachel Zane. (USA Network / NBCU Photo Bank / NBCUniversal)

3. On “Suits,” Sarah Rafferty stars as Donna Paulsen, and Rick Hoffman portrays Louis Litt. (Photo by Shane Mahood / USA)

Footage from the popular show circulated on TikTok. Notably, companies such as e.l.f. Cosmetics and T-Mobile reached out to cast members for potential Super Bowl commercials in 2024. In recognition of the show’s revival, Macht, Adams, Torres, and Sarah Rafferty were asked to present at the Golden Globes that year. Furthermore, actors Adams and Rafferty, who portrayed Donna, the wise assistant-turned COO in the original version, recently started a podcast called “Sidebar” towards the end of last year to interact with fans.

Reflecting on the show as a spectator, Adams offers insights on why “Suits” managed a comeback: “Aaron and his team excelled at consistently presenting engaging and complex challenges for this group of characters, episode after episode. … However, at its core, what they did exceptionally well, and what we did too, was create a family and establish a set of individuals whom viewers grew fond of and wanted to revisit, cheering them on as they thrived or empathizing with their failures in certain instances.

Rafferty agreed wholeheartedly, stating, “You could sense Aaron’s dedication to the character he was portraying, not just moving the story forward mechanically,” she remarked. “It’s truly enchanting to me how the spirit of these characters continues to resonate.

Some viewers are eager to understand if “Suits LA” will complement its earlier version well. However, others harbor doubts, fearing that it might seem like an identical reproduction of the original characters and their interactions.

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Actress Sarah Rafferty discussed the revival of “Suits,” and how playing a character in the screen version of Ali Novak’s growing-up story, “My Life With the Walter Boys,” allows her to embody motherhood.

As a seasoned movie reviewer, I must admit that when I first learned of Stephen Amell’s casting as Oliver Queen/Green Arrow in The CW’s superhero drama, I too harbored some initial doubts. However, I can now confidently say that my skepticism has been thoroughly dispelled by his exceptional portrayal of the character.

He explains that although his new character seems similar to another popular one, it’s actually distinct. He mentions receiving a supportive text from Macht, which was circulated within the “Suits LA” group. He adds that internet comments, despite being loud, represent only a small segment of the overall fanbase. If someone insists on watching only the original series, he wishes them well. However, he sympathizes with such viewers because the creative team is the same and the show is an extension of the universe. Ultimately, the impact won’t be clear until the series premieres.

Los Angeles’ aren’t just replicas of those in ‘Suits.’ These individuals possess distinctive personalities with unique ambitions, preferences, humor, and triggers.

Overseeing any series, particularly one cherished by an enthusiastic and watchful fan base, is inherently stressful. However, Korsh recently faced something extraordinary – managing a production during a crisis, specifically the devastating wildfires that affected areas in Los Angeles.

In a rush, it was tough to choose the appropriate action amidst the stress. The production halted on January 8th (Wednesday), with the Palisades and Eaton fires still burning fiercely. Korsh, who was asked by studio executives the same day if filming should resume the following morning, replied in the negative. He admitted that he felt uncertain about his ability to make the right call, stating, “I did not think I was the person that should be making the decision.” As Friday approached, the studio informed Korsh that he had permission to shoot the next day but wasn’t required to do so. He decided to maintain the production pause, although the writers were free to continue working during this period. Greenberg, a cast member who portrays Rick Dodson in the series, lost his home, and Korsh confirmed that at least one crew member suffered a similar loss.

Over the weekend, following discussions with his representative, Korsh asked his line producer to touch base with the team to gauge their sentiments regarding resuming work. Consequently, it was decided that production would resume.

He describes those challenging times as “unreal,” remembering them cautiously, ensuring his feelings don’t overpower his words. “I can’t say that I — nor anyone I know — have fully comprehended what transpired… I wasn’t ready to face the tough choices, but with the collective knowledge and insight of everyone involved, I feel content with the decisions we ultimately made.

Being the decision maker for a TV series was not the path he was originally on.

Raised in a suburb near Philadelphia, Korsh originated from a family where his father was a computer science professor and his mother, a psychologist. Despite this academic background, he harbored dreams of becoming a businessman, inspired by his prosperous uncle. He pursued finance studies at Wharton and found himself on Wall Street during the aftermath of the 1987 stock market crash. Though he was earning money, he detested his job. A tragic event – the death of a college roommate – made him ponder over life and death. This encounter led to an unpleasant self-realization: Korsh considered himself as a ‘spoiled young man’. His boss then presented him with three options: alter his attitude, remain employed, or face termination.

Korsh quit.

Eventually, he relocated to Los Angeles and secured a short-term position in real estate investment. It so happened that he almost serendipitously became a TV writer. A college acquaintance, who was already an established TV writer, invited him to attend the script reading of a sitcom pilot that would later feature Bryan Cranston, before his breakout roles in “Malcolm in the Middle” and “Breaking Bad.

In an unexpected twist, I managed to keep my identity hidden among this group of writers. As I sat there, observing their every move, I found myself utterly astonished by their craft. To me, it seemed like the most extraordinary profession imaginable. That’s exactly what I yearned for – to be a part of this incredible world.

Korsh persistently made phone calls and eventually secured a job as a production assistant for “Everybody Loves Raymond.” This opportunity arose due to a production coordinator who was fascinated by the fact that an ex-investment banker was willing to accept a minimum wage position. The following year, Phil Rosenthal, one of the show’s co-creators, created an additional writer’s assistant role for Korsh. He spent eight years working as a writer’s assistant across various shows before securing a writing position on the short-lived ABC sitcom “Notes From the Underbelly.” However, it was his stint on “The Deep End,” a series about young L.A. lawyers, that introduced him to the legal field, which would later become a significant part of his career.

When asked if he found pleasure in creating “Suits,” Korsh laughs. He clarifies that when the “Suits” pilot was filmed, his son was roughly six months old, and his daughter came into the world during the series’ second season.

Speaking about his experience, he admits that as a first-time parent for all three of his kids, he found himself unprepared and struggling to balance his dual roles. He often found himself in a grumpy state of mind. During Season 4, he recalls feeling particularly angry. In fact, he reached out to Phil Rosenthal, expressing his feelings, who asked if it was due to creative restrictions from the network. However, he clarified that this wasn’t the case; rather, it was a culmination of the immense difficulty he was facing.

He’s not focusing on that right now, but what stands out for him is looking back with a sense of nostalgia, through rose-tinted glasses if you will. He admits to this happily, as he mainly recalls the positive aspects and misses it dearly… He feels fortunate to have this job and was extremely content with the outcomes of those nine years. The tough times, he reflects, lead to deep fulfillment and personal growth.

Currently, Korsh is nearing the midpoint of filming the first season and just a few days away from the debut of “Suits LA”. Despite the pressure he’s carrying, he’s still taking pleasure in this moment.

As I grow older, I’m adopting a new approach – I’m uncertain about how to describe it, but I do know that I’m less fixated on the words being absolutely perfect or the end result matching my initial vision. However, my obsession with making the show exceptional remains unchanged. At this moment, I feel quite content and am extremely satisfied with everything we’ve achieved so far.

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2025-02-17 15:32

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