Aaron Korsh on the Pressures of Creating ‘Suits LA’
Aaron Korsh, the creative mind behind the popular legal drama “Suits,” grapples with the complexities of expectations, which he views as a distraction beyond his control. After the show concluded nearly six years ago, its unexpected resurgence as the most-streamed show of 2023 on Netflix has prompted abundant speculation and anticipation. Still, Korsh focuses primarily on his own standards and the new quasi-spinoff series set to debut on NBC.
“Constant stress is part of making something I’m proud of,” Korsh admitted during a recent visit to the set of “Suits LA.” Surrounded by law books, the 58-year-old writer emphasized that external reactions are beyond his influence. “What matters is whether I love it and if I can be proud of it.”
Typically found on the Fox lot with the writing team, Korsh occasionally visits the set in Los Angeles, which offers a different creative atmosphere compared to the original series filmed in Toronto. Back when “Suits” premiered in June 2011, it entered a landscape dominated by reality television. The streaming service Netflix was still evolving, making it a transformative time for TV.
As he delves into filming the seventh episode of “Suits LA,” Korsh remains greatly concerned about establishing the right tone for the show. He finds joy in unexpected moments that create levity, contributing to the series’ charm. Director Anton Cropper praised Korsh’s unique writing style, which balances comedic and dramatic elements, underscoring the series’ original appeal.
Originally conceptualized about Hollywood deal-making, “Suits LA” evolved after “Suits” ended, with Korsh motivated to explore the idea during the pandemic. The adaptation involved altering the premise, bringing lawyers back into the fold and deepening the character engagement with crime elements for broader narrative potential.
Despite being conceptualized as a separate entity, “Suits LA” pulls threads from its predecessor, featuring a fresh set of characters navigating the cutthroat entertainment lawyers’ scene in Los Angeles. Fans can expect a balance of ambition, humor, and intricate interpersonal dynamics, all woven into the backdrop of Tinseltown.
Korsh acknowledges the legacy of the original series, which captivated audiences and inspired adaptations across the globe. The unexpected boost in viewership due to Netflix’s platform and the intrigue around Meghan Markle contributed to the show’s renewed popularity. Clips from “Suits” permeated social media, fueling a surge of interest that has reinvigorated the fandom.
Acknowledging the skepticism surrounding the new series, Korsh highlights the distinctiveness of the new characters who carve their own narratives apart from the original cast. Stephen Amell, leading as Ted Black, emphasizes that while comparisons are natural, the essence of “Suits LA” stands alone, drawing inspiration from the same creative team.
The onset of production amid other challenges has seen Korsh navigating crises, including the wildfires affecting the LA area, leading to difficult decisions regarding filming schedules. Throughout this tumultuous phase, he relied on collective discussions with the cast and crew to tackle the uncertainties surrounding their safety and production continuity.
Reflecting on his journey from investment banking to television writing, Korsh articulated a sense of nostalgia for the early days of "Suits," tempered with the realities of his evolving role as a creator and father. As he prepares for the series premiere, he expresses optimism balanced with seasoned wisdom.
“I’m more relaxed in some ways and more focused on creating quality,” he states. With the first season nearing completion, Korsh feels encouraged and proud of what “Suits LA” stands to offer, eager for audiences to experience this latest chapter in the world he has crafted.
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No one has higher expectations for ‘Suits LA’ than creator Aaron Korsh
