One of the more compelling sessions at this year’s South by Southwest centered on HBO’s new series Rooster. A panel moderated by Perri Nemiroff of Collider, featured Steve Carell alongside Danielle Deadwyler, Charly Clive, & the series Showrunners: Matt Tarses & Bill Lawrence. The panel shared insight on the show’s casting process, tonal balance, and the collaborative energy that turned it into a hit series on HBO!
Rooster, set within a college environment, has gained major traction as a character-driven ensemble piece with sharp humor. The performances are layered, but incredibly grounded in it’s writing – specifically the balance between Carell, Deadwyler, and Clive’s characters. Rooster beautifully navigates relationships and creative ambition set on a present-day college campus. What I resonated with the most was not just the premise (and how refreshing it is to watch a show set in the world of academia), but the way it integrates seasoned actors with newcomers, creating an authentic world for the viewer.
That casting approach was a central theme of the panel. Brilliantly casted by Allison Jones, much of the show’s background and secondary cast is made up of relatively inexperienced actors. A deliberate choice that absolutely paid off. Watching the trio work alongside these newer performers elevated the entire series and brought spontaneity to scenes. The result? A dynamic that feels completely lived-in rather than overly rehearsed, which I prefer with a series such as Rooster. I mean.. campus culture is a lot more believable when students aren’t super famous actors (yes, even the most talented ones).
When asked ‘How do you know if characters aren’t just great for their characters but the ensemble”, showrunner Matt Tarses explained that he works a lot with the same actors. He noted that “If you can create an environment with actors who like each other and hang outside of set, you know they’ll work on set.” He found that spark again with this cast, mentioning laughter in-between takes and frequent cast hang outs outside of filming. That connection, especially between established actors and new faces, created an environment where experimentation felt safe and collaboration absolutely thrived.
Deadwyler also noted that this experience was more memorable because it was a shift from her previous dramatic roles, highlighting the creative freedom she found. She described the transition to comedy as refreshing and expansive, “I got to bring my full self into it,” also mentioning how Rooster allowed her to explore new dimensions of her craft. She loved the audition process because it was more of a ‘workshop’ rather than a traditional slate/read. To which Carell emphasized that right after reading with Deadwyler he was immediately set on only wanting her to play Dylan Shepard. The relationship between Deadwyler and Carell is truly one of the show’s best dynamics, a complementary relationship rather than a divide.
Carell offered particular insight into his character, clarifying a subtle but important distinction: “My character is not an awkward person—he is shy but not an introvert.” That gray area was a rich space for exploration, especially as his character navigates life alongside his partner who is notably powerful and accomplished. It’s rare to find actors find the perfect balance between shyness outside of insecurity, and of course Carell’s performance was nothing short of perfection.
Beyond acting, Carell also serves as an executive producer on the series. When asked at what point he decided to step into that role, he explained that the opportunity came through invitation rather than intention. After reading the pilot, he was immediately drawn to the material. As an EP, his role was less about piloting the series, but more about safeguarding the creative vision. I found much relief hearing this because many actors have such unique insight into storytelling. As I hope to produce someday myself, finding my own lane as a producing partner focused solely on creative vision is where Carell seemed to thrive.
He emphasized the importance of having a singular voice guiding the project, noting that his contributions often happen instinctively, in real time, rather than through premeditated input.
The entire discussion was a blend of reflection, creative insight, and the absolutely brilliance behind Rooster. The SXSW panel made clear that the show’s strength lies not only in its writing or performances, but the collaborative spirit behind it. A merge of experience, experimentation, and genuine human connection.
