Rachel Sennott Discusses New Comedy and Gen Z Life

Rachel Sennott recently spoke about her new HBO series, I Love LA, where she explores the complexities of Gen Z life through a comedic lens. In a conversation with The Guardian, Sennott shared that she co-wrote the series with Emma Barrie and stars as a fledgling talent manager named Maia, alongside Odessa Azion, who plays influencer Tallulah.

Sennott described the show as a portrait of privileged twentysomethings balancing the perks and pitfalls of internet fame, aiming to capture the nuances of their experiences rather than presenting a condescending view of young people.

Sennott's journey began at New York University, where she struggled to fit into the traditional comedy scene, getting rejected from various groups. This led her to create her own path through performing at open mics and producing unique comedy videos online.

Her breakout film, Shiva Baby, directed by Emma Seligman, was pivotal in her career, showcasing her ability to blend humor with deeper themes. I Love LA reflects her personal experiences, including her turbulent move to Los Angeles and her reflections on life lessons learned during her Saturn return.

Sennott acknowledges the chaotic nature of young adulthood, stating, 'In my early 20s, I was so messy, crying in public everywhere, all the time.' She addresses the impact of the pandemic on her younger sisters and the broader Gen Z experience, highlighting how it has shaped their outlook on life.

The series is characterized by absurd humor and poignant moments, such as a storyline involving a nepo baby influencer, which resonates with current discussions around privilege in Hollywood. Sennott emphasizes her intent to portray these characters with empathy, saying, 'I wanted to approach it in a way where I didn’t judge the characters.' She also expressed her excitement about the collaborative nature of the project, crediting the entire cast and crew for their contributions.

Throughout the interview, Sennott's passion for her work shines through, and she reflects on her evolving relationship with Los Angeles, stating, 'Now I do love LA!' This blend of humor and authenticity in her work positions Sennott as a significant voice in the contemporary comedy landscape, especially for Gen Z audiences, as she navigates the intersection of online culture and real-life challenges.