Uncovering the Untold: Surprising Facts About PEN15
Delve into the mysteries behind the cancellation of PEN15 and uncover hidden truths about the series that will leave you intrigued.
PEN15 brought back the year 2000 with its unique cringe comedy, using humor to capture the essence of growing up in the early 00s. Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle play middle-school versions of themselves, reliving the trials and tribulations of their teenage years. The show's honest approach to humor and uncomfortably realistic portrayal set it apart in the world of cringe comedies.
The series received widespread critical acclaim during its two-season run as a Hulu original before going off the air. In addition to its cringeworthy moments, PEN15 also had a heartfelt side that resonated with anyone who experienced adolescence in the 2000s. By incorporating details from the creators' own lives, the show became even more personal and endearing, making it a beloved comedy gem.
PEN15 is available to stream on Hulu.
Andy Samberg Helped Get The Show Picked Up
It Was For A Lonely Island Pitch
Maya and Anna by the lockers in Pen15 - It Was For A Lonely Island Pitch - Andy Samberg Helped Get The Show Picked Up
Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle didn't originally pitch their show to Hulu. Instead, Andy Samberg's production company, Party Over Here, requested the pitch from them. Samberg served as a producer on the show after hearing the original idea and asking Maya and Anna to create a 15-minute pitch presentation. The pitch was sent to networks by Andy and his production company, and Hulu ultimately picked it up (via The LA Times).
Maya Erskine's Mom Plays Maya's Mom On PEN15
Mutsuko Erskine Was One Of The PEN15 Stars
Maya prays with her mom and brother in Pen15 - Mutsuko Erskine Was One Of The PEN15 Stars - Maya Erskine's Mom Plays Maya's Mom On PEN15
Yuki Ishii-Peters, portrayed by Mutsuko Erskine, is often regarded as one of the most intelligent characters on PEN15 and serves as Maya's mother. Despite being Mutsuko Erskine's sole credit on the show, her naturalistic performance adds authenticity to her on-screen relationship with Maya.
The genuine and heartfelt moments shared between Maya and her parents mirror real-life experiences, adding depth and emotional resonance to their interactions on the show.
PEN15 Season 2 Faces Delay
The highly anticipated second season of PEN15 experienced a delay in its release. Despite this setback, the show's unique blend of coming-of-age struggles and heartfelt connections with parents continues to resonate with viewers. Maya and Anna's relatable experiences bring a touch of realism to the over-the-top comedy, grounding the show in genuine and emotional moments.
An Animated Special Bridged The Gap
Maya and Anna look on in their animated forms in Pen15 - An Animated Special Bridged The Gap - PEN15 Season 2 Was Delayed
Body Doubles Were Used In PEN15
To maintain the continuity of the series, body doubles were utilized in PEN15 due to the delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision allowed for the seamless transition between the first seven episodes released in September 2020 and the second half of season 2 that premiered in December 2021. The use of body doubles ensured that the characters remained consistent in appearance and behavior, providing a cohesive viewing experience for fans of the show.
PEN15 Made Sure Everyone Felt Safe On The Set
Maya and Sam dancing at school dance - PEN15 Made Sure Everyone Felt Safe On The Set - Body Doubles Were Used In PEN15
Shows like PEN15 often rely on running gags, and one of the funniest repeated punchlines in the series was the visual humor derived from Erskine and Konkle playing middle school students despite being in their thirties. Though quite hilarious, it presented production challenges that had to be overcome using clever cinematic tricks.
Body doubles were utilized for romantic sequences.
Anna Konkle And Maya Erskine Decided To End PEN15 After Season 2
Body doubles were utilized for romantic scenes involving Erskine and Konkle's characters as well as the children in the series, in addition to the use of camera tricks. Cheat Sheet disclosed that Erskine and the production crew dedicated a substantial amount of time ensuring that "every individual in the scene would feel at ease" during filming.
PEN15 Ended How The Creators Wanted
Maya Erskine and Anna Konkel hold lighters in PEN15 Hulu - PEN15 Ended How The Creators Wanted - Anna Konkle And Maya Erskine Decided To End PEN15 After Season 2
Despite facing delays due to COVID, PEN15 season 2 remained popular among viewers. The creators ultimately chose to conclude the show after its second season, allowing PEN15 to end on a high note. Despite the extended hiatus giving the impression of a third season, it was actually two halves of one season. Unfortunately, PEN15 season 3 never came to fruition as Erskine and Konkle pursued other projects.
The decision to end PEN15 after season 2 was a wise choice, considering the deeply personal nature of the series for its creators and stars. Rather than forcing the show to continue, they opted to let it conclude on their own terms.
Things Got Emotional On The Set Of PEN15
PEN15 Brought Back Painful Memories
Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle dancing in PEN15 - PEN15 Brought Back Painful Memories - Things Got Emotional On The Set Of PEN15
The cringe moments in PEN15 were not only hilarious but also evoked memories of the awkwardness of middle school. Despite the humor, some scenes could also be quite emotional. In season 1, one of the most difficult scenes to watch was when Maya and Anna created a Spice Girls video with their classmates, leading to Maya being isolated for standing out from the others.
Erskine was overwhelmed with emotion and broke down in tears during the painful sequence. The New Yorker reported that she was not alone in her reaction, as Konkle and some of the younger cast members also responded emotionally to the scene. Despite the tears, Erskine described the experience as a "lightbulb moment" that helped to reveal the true essence of the show.
Maya's Real-Life Dad Is Credited On The Wild Things Soundtrack
Peter Erskine Was Also Involved In PEN15
Fred Peters looking down and writing in Pen15 - Peter Erskine Was Also Involved In PEN15 - Maya's Real-Life Dad Is Credited On The Wild Things Soundtrack
Maya Erskine not only poured a part of herself into the story of PEN15 but also included real-life figures from her personal life, such as her father. In the show, Fred Peters, portrayed by Richard Karn, is based on Erskine's actual father, Peter Erskine, who is also a drummer professionally.
Maya Erskine And Anna Konkle Met In College
Maya and Anna watch Wild Things with a group from school in PEN15 season 1, episode 8 "Wild Things". In real life, Erskine's dad Peter is credited on the soundtrack to the movie.
The Stars Of PEN15 Are Old Friends
Maya and Anna hugging in PEN15 - The Stars Of PEN15 Are Old Friends - Maya Erskine And Anna Konkle Met In College
The strong connection between PEN15 stars Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle was a key factor in the success of the comedy series. Many events in the show were inspired by their personal experiences, adding authenticity to their on-screen friendship. Despite playing middle school friends on the show, Erskine and Konkle actually met as adults.
According to Distractify, Konkle and Erskine crossed paths in Amsterdam while participating in an NYU study-abroad program. Their bond quickly formed, leading to a deep and lasting friendship in real life. This genuine connection between the two actresses translates seamlessly on screen, contributing to the show's authenticity.
PEN15's Opening Sequence Used Real Photos
The Photos In The Intro Were From Maya and Anna's Childhood
Anna and Maya look on in Pen15 - The Photos In The Intro Were From Maya and Anna's Childhood - PEN15's Opening Sequence Used Real Photos
Each episode of PEN15 begins with a montage of photos featuring Maya and Anna set to the iconic riot grrrl track "DemiRep" by Bikini Kill. Interestingly, the pictures shown in the opening sequence are authentic childhood photos of Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle.
Maya and Anna's Appearances are Based on Their Childhood Looks
Erskine and Konkle searched for old photos of themselves from their childhood to portray the characters they play on the series PEN15. This process took place before the widespread use of camera phones. The inclusion of these pictures not only adds a humorous element to the show but also establishes a personal connection with the audience right from the opening credits.
The Cast Tapped Into Their Teenage Selves For An Authentic Aesthetic
Anna and Maya screaming in Pen15 - The Cast Tapped Into Their Teenage Selves For An Authentic Aesthetic - Maya And Anna's Appearances Are Based On Their Childhood Looks
Maya and Anna's signature looks, used cleverly to divert viewers from the fact that they were portraying middle schoolers in their thirties, provided a comedic distraction from the age gap with their co-stars. According to The New Yorker, Konkle and Erskine drew inspiration for their styling from their actual middle school appearances. Konkle underwent braces treatment twice, while Erskine sported a bowl cut reminiscent of their Pen15 characters. Erskine shared that she was teased for her hairiness and even sported a subtle mustache.
Editor's P/S:
The article on PEN15 offers a comprehensive insight into the beloved comedy series, highlighting its unique approach to humor, heartfelt moments, and production challenges. The use of cringe comedy to capture the essence of growing up in the early 2000s is a refreshing take on the genre. The show's honest portrayal of awkwardness and the relatable experiences of Maya and Anna resonate with viewers, making it both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
The behind-the-scenes details, such as Andy Samberg's involvement in getting the show picked up and the use of body doubles to maintain continuity during the COVID-19 pandemic, provide a glimpse into the creative process and the dedication of the cast and crew. The article also touches upon the emotional impact of some scenes, particularly the Spice Girls video sequence, showcasing the depth and authenticity of the show's storytelling. Overall, the article provides a well-rounded exploration of PEN15, giving readers a deeper appreciation for its unique blend of comedy, heart, and the challenges of bringing it to life.
