Greg Berlanti, one of Hollywood’s most influential producers, recently reflected on his groundbreaking career in television and how his projects, particularly in the YA (Young Adult) genre, have helped shape representation and storytelling on the small screen. From his early days on Dawson’s Creek to his more recent success with projects like Red, White & Royal Blue, Berlanti has become a driving force behind some of the most impactful and inclusive television shows.
From Dawson’s Creek to Industry Titan
Greg Berlanti’s career took a leap when he was offered the role of showrunner on Dawson’s Creek during its third season. While initially hesitant, fearing it was “a quick way to get fired,” he eventually accepted the challenge with the condition that the show’s gay character, Jack, be allowed to have an on-screen kiss with another man. This moment, which aired in the Season 3 finale, became the first romantic kiss between two men in primetime television, marking a milestone for LGBTQ representation.
Berlanti’s bold decision on Dawson’s Creek laid the foundation for his career, where he would become known for pushing boundaries in storytelling. For this, Berlanti is set to receive the Governors Award at the 76th Emmy Awards on September 15, 2024, in recognition of his contributions to television.
Creating a Legacy: A Team Effort
Despite his individual accolades, Berlanti remains humble, emphasizing that his success has always been a “team sport.” His leadership philosophy was shaped during his time on Dawson’s Creek, where he learned the importance of collaboration. “What I learned the most was that I was very reliant on a base of writers who could figure things out and do it together,” he shared.
This collaborative spirit has remained the cornerstone of Berlanti’s production approach. As head of Berlanti Productions, he has built a massive portfolio of shows across various networks, including Arrow, The Flash, and Riverdale, many of which feature diverse characters and storylines that resonate with younger audiences.
The Influence of YA Television
YA television has become a platform for tackling important issues and expanding representation, particularly for LGBTQ and POC audiences. Berlanti, who has produced some of the most popular YA series of the past two decades, acknowledges the profound influence these shows can have on young viewers. “When you ask someone what their favorite TV show of all time is, they will 90% of the time tell you it is something they watched when they were young,” Berlanti said. These shows, he explained, are often more than just entertainment—they shape how viewers perceive themselves and the world.
Berlanti believes in creating spaces for new voices, giving emerging talents the opportunity to tell stories that are authentic to their experiences. “What is truthful to you?” he asks creators in the writers’ room, emphasizing that the best stories are those rooted in personal truth.
Teasing the Sequel to ‘Red, White and Royal Blue’
One of Berlanti’s recent successes is Red, White & Royal Blue, a film adaptation of Casey McQuiston’s bestselling novel about a romance between the son of the U.S. president and a British prince. Berlanti serves as a producer on the project, which has already been greenlit for a sequel. While he didn’t reveal any spoilers, Berlanti expressed excitement for the upcoming storyline, describing it as a “natural next step in the journey of these characters.”
The sequel is currently being written by director Matthew López and author Casey McQuiston, and fans are eager to see how the beloved characters will evolve in the next chapter. Berlanti’s involvement ensures that the sequel will continue the same heartfelt and progressive approach that made the original a hit.
Looking Forward: New Projects in Development
Even after decades in the industry, Berlanti’s passion for developing new shows hasn’t waned. With multiple projects in development across platforms like Max, Netflix, and NBC, his workload remains full but fulfilling. “This is my happy place,” he said, explaining how he loves working on drafts and material in its earliest stages, when “all of it is possible.”
Berlanti’s future projects will undoubtedly continue his legacy of creating inclusive, groundbreaking television that resonates with audiences of all ages.
FAQs
1. What was Greg Berlanti’s role on Dawson’s Creek?
Greg Berlanti served as the showrunner of Dawson’s Creek during its third season, where he fought for LGBTQ representation by featuring the first romantic kiss between two men on primetime television.
2. Why is Greg Berlanti receiving the Governors Award at the 2024 Emmys?
Berlanti is being honored for his contributions to television, particularly for his work in expanding representation and creating inclusive programming over his multi-decade career.
3. What is Red, White & Royal Blue about?
Red, White & Royal Blue is a romantic drama that tells the story of a romance between the son of the U.S. president and a British prince. Berlanti is a producer on the film and its upcoming sequel.
4. What is Greg Berlanti’s approach to creating television shows?
Berlanti emphasizes collaboration and truth in storytelling, encouraging writers and showrunners to focus on stories that are authentic to their personal experiences.
