Summary
Despite the challenges caused by Justin Roiland's departure from Rick and Morty, the crew remains committed and determined to continue the show.
The creative team, led by co-creator Dan Harmon, of Rick and Morty is rejuvenated and set to embark on season 7. Despite logistical and casting changes, the show is expected to not only continue but also enhance its quality. The crew is confident that viewers will be delighted with the upcoming season.
Rick and Morty executive producer Steve Levy shares his perspective on season 7 in light of the controversy surrounding Justin Roiland. Roiland, who has voiced the main characters for six seasons, was fired by Adult Swim and Hulu earlier this year following charges of domestic battery and false imprisonment, as well as allegations of workplace misconduct. This unexpected turn of events caused the show to undergo significant changes in terms of logistics, vision, and casting as they prepared for season 7. Although Roiland was later cleared of the charges, his departure from the show seems to have injected a renewed sense of enthusiasm into Levy and others involved.
In a conversation with the Los Angeles Times, Levy candidly discusses the aftermath of Roiland's dismissal. Despite initially considering leaving the project, he shares that the crew's dedication and hard work convinced him to stay and continue the show. He also excitedly declares that Rick and Morty season 7 will be "even better." Read his complete statement below.
Did Roiland's Exit Help The Rick And Morty Crew?
Our world was turned upside down when the rug was abruptly pulled from beneath us. In this dark time, we found solace and support in one another. While it would have been effortless to surrender and sever ties with this show, our dedicated crew refused to let one individual hinder the fruits of their labor. This show is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our remarkable team - a family united by their unwavering work ethic. Together, we will persevere and demonstrate to the world that not a single beat will be missed. The progress we are making in every aspect of the production has only improved. As the new season unveils, our focus will be on the extraordinary outcome. We earnestly hope that our beloved fans will recognize that this is still the same remarkable show, perhaps even surpassing expectations.
In addition to voicing the nihilistic and mischievous scientist Rick as well as his delicate grandson Morty, Roiland also served as a showrunner and writer for the series. His departure created a predicament for the show, as new voice actors needed to be found to fill his roles. Adding to the complication, the show is obligated to produce new episodes until season 10. Although the official re-casting has not been announced yet, the creative team behind the show, including co-creator Dan Harmon, has regained their enthusiasm, and it appears that season 7 will move forward.
Reports of behind-the-scenes turmoil in the Rick and Morty writing room surfaced in early 2023. These reports claim that Roiland's presence as a writer had become burdensome, as he neglected his creative responsibilities and made inappropriate and threatening jokes towards his colleagues. Furthermore, multiple allegations of sexual harassment were made against him. When combined with Roiland's lackadaisical approach to the creative process (one report even stated that he rarely attended writers' meetings), it becomes evident how his removal from the show could offer greater security and relief to Levy and the rest of the show's staff.
Although the release of Rick and Morty season 7 has been delayed, with its return expected in 2024, the ongoing strike by the WGA and SAG-AFTRA may further postpone the release date. Nevertheless, it seems that the challenges posed by Roiland have largely been overcome by the show's creative team, providing a much-needed sense of relief for Adult Swim and Hulu.
Source: Los Angeles Times