Dan Levy Embraces New Creative Challenges After 'Schitt's Creek' Success

The Emmy-winning actor and producer opens up about the pressure to follow up his acclaimed comedy series and the making of his new Netflix crime caper 'Big Mistakes'.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:06pm

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An abstract close-up image featuring a textured pattern of glittering sequins and shattered glass, conveying the glamorous and high-stakes tone of the new Netflix crime comedy series 'Big Mistakes'.The vibrant, high-energy celebration of the 'Big Mistakes' premiere event reflects the show's blend of comedy and crime.Los Angeles Today

After the acclaimed run of 'Schitt's Creek', Dan Levy was hesitant to immediately jump into a new TV project, wanting to 'let the dust settle' before tackling a new series. He's now back with the Netflix crime comedy 'Big Mistakes', which he co-created with actress Rachel Sennott. The two discussed their creative process, the challenges of working in a new genre, and assembling the right ensemble cast for the show's premiere event at a popular Los Angeles restaurant.

Why it matters

Levy's success with 'Schitt's Creek' put immense pressure on him to quickly deliver a new hit, but he resisted that urge in order to thoughtfully craft a project that would stand on its own. 'Big Mistakes' represents Levy's first major TV project since the Emmy-winning comedy, signaling his creative evolution and willingness to take on new challenges in the entertainment industry.

The details

Levy and Sennott spent six months writing 'Big Mistakes' over Zoom, eventually meeting in person for about five days to hammer out the pilot script in a single day. To give the show an authentic crime caper feel, they collaborated with a crime expert who provided valuable feedback and suggestions. Levy was also meticulous about assembling the right ensemble cast, prioritizing actors who would be 'generous of spirit' and avoid disrupting the set.

  • Levy and Sennott spent six months writing 'Big Mistakes' over Zoom.
  • Levy and Sennott met in person for about five days to finalize the pilot script.
  • 'Big Mistakes' is set to debut on Netflix on April 9, 2026.

The players

Dan Levy

The Emmy-winning actor, writer, and producer who created the acclaimed comedy series 'Schitt's Creek' and is now co-creating the new Netflix crime comedy 'Big Mistakes'.

Rachel Sennott

The actress who co-created 'Big Mistakes' with Levy and will also star in the series, having previously worked with Levy on HBO's 'The Idol'.

Nancy Silverton

The renowned chef who co-owns the Los Angeles restaurant Max & Helen's, where the 'Big Mistakes' premiere event was held.

Phil Rosenthal

The television producer who co-owns the Los Angeles restaurant Max & Helen's with Nancy Silverton.

Taylor Ortega

The actress who stars alongside Levy in 'Big Mistakes' as his character's sister, Morgan.

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What they’re saying

“Well, a lot of time had to pass. When the show ended, there was this immediate conversation of, like, 'What are you doing next?' It's a horrible way of doing business. God forbid I nap.”

— Dan Levy, Actor, Writer, Producer

“We only spent four days together, but I've been madly in love with everything you've ever done and I respect the hell out of you. I remember pitching you the idea and being like … So anyway, I thought like maybe we could collaborate on this and you were like, 'I'm in.'”

— Dan Levy, Actor, Writer, Producer

“Having a professional is so helpful. Not only did he say, 'Yeah that's plausible but here are three other ways this person could die.' And you're, like, 'Well, I didn't think of that but now that's on the table.'”

— Rachel Sennott, Actress, Co-Creator

What’s next

Fans can look forward to the debut of 'Big Mistakes' on Netflix on April 9, 2026, where they'll get to see Levy and Sennott's new crime comedy series in action.

The takeaway

After the massive success of 'Schitt's Creek', Dan Levy was intentional about taking his time to develop a new project that would allow him to explore fresh creative challenges, resulting in the upcoming Netflix series 'Big Mistakes' which blends comedy and crime in a new genre-bending direction.