“Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” is the hit Netflix show created by Tina Fey and Robert Carlock. The show follows Kimmy Schmidt as she creates a new life for herself in New York City. She was held captive for 15 years by a crazed man who convinced her and 3 other girls the world had ended and they were the only people left. Despite the tragic and dark backstory, “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” manages to be an upbeat, funny and optimistic show. Tina Fey and Robert Carlock created a unique program and the actors bring depth and humor into the characters.
Here are 5 things you didn’t know about “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”.
1. Greek Mythology and Pop Culture
Some characters on “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” have names that reflect Greek mythology and pop culture. The best example is Xanthippe Lannister Voorhees, socialite Jacqueline’s step daughter and nemesis of Kimmy. Xanthippe was the wife of Socrates and in Greek mythology, the character was antagonistic. Lannister refers to the ruthless family in “Game of Thrones”. Voorhees is the last name of the Jason, the murderous villain in the “Friday the 13th” films. Pop culture references are seen throughout “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”. Several 1990’s references include Mr. T, MMMBop, “Adventures in Babysitting”, and a Walkman. Of course Titus references pop culture all of the time like his performance of Beyoncé’s “Lemonade”.
2. Broadway
Broadway plays a large role in “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”. The show itself is like an award winning Broadway play. Titus Andromedon, Kimmy’s roommate, is an aspiring yet struggling actor in New York City who dreams of acting and singing in Broadway plays. Tituss Burgess who plays Titus was once a struggling actor trying to get on Broadway. He made his debut in 2005 in “Good Vibrations”. He has also performed in “Jersey Boys”, “The Little Mermaid” and “Guys and Dolls”. He also sang in a Broadway benefit concert for Barak Obama in 2008. In addition, several Broadway greats make cameo appearances on “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”. Tony Award winners who have made cameo appearances on the show include Jefferson Mays, Thomas Monroe Inglehart and John Cullum.
3. Inspiration for Kimmy Schmidt
Ellie Kemper was the inspiration for the character of Kimmy Schmidt. Tina Fey knew Ellie Kemper, and her personality is similar to Kimmy’s. She is optimistic, funny and sweet. When Tina Fey created the character of Kimmy Schmidt, she certainly had Ellie in mind. The character would have a dark past, but the role would be of a vibrant and optimistic girl starting her life over in the big city.
4. Color
Maybe it’s obvious, but color is significant in “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”. Kimmy’s bright and sunny wardrobe and accessories reflect her optimistic hope for her new life of freedom. Yet, Kimmy does touch on her dark years of captivity, and her wardrobe is at times drab and depressing.
5. Kimmy goes to college
Season 3 of “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” will be darker than previous seasons, but we will continue to see Kimmy gain momentum in her life. Now that Kimmy has completed her GED, she will go to college. Tutus will returns from his cruise ship stint and contemplates his relationship with Mikey. Eccentric landlord Lillian (Carol Kane) will run for political office because she wants to stop the gentrification of her neighborhood in East Dogmouth. Jacqueline has become more politically aware. She and her boyfriend Russ Snyder plot to have his family change the name of the Washington NFL team they own because it is racist. With season 3 of “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”, we will also see Jacqueline and Titus’ budding friendship and several familiar guest stars.
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