‘Entourage’ creator, writer speaks to IU

After eight seasons, the HBO series “Entourage” ended in October. Fans were left with memorable characters and an award-winning story. On Monday night, however, fans at IU were able to revive their obsessions and learn new information about the show. 

Show creator Doug Ellin spoke to the IU community in Indiana Memorial Union Alumni Hall about the show, as well as his personal experiences.

A fast-paced talker, Ellin first answered the questions Union Board had prepared for him and then answered ones from the audience. Ellin discussed everything from the creation of the show to the future of the show. Ellin said the show was based on experiences in

Hollywood that he and his friends really had. In order to be cast for the show, actors had to feel believably real to him.

“That’s all I cared about, having them speak the way they would to each other,”
he said.

Senior Ross Schneider, who used to watch the show, said he agreed Ellin achieved his goal of creating real life depictions of males and their friends. 

“I liked the dialogue between the characters — not factory script. It’s real life,” Schneider said. “It is the ‘Sex and the City’ for men.”

When asked about the “titless” season eight from an audience member, Ellin said, “The actresses who will take their tops off usually can’t talk.”

There have been rumors of a movie being made based on the show’s plot.

Ellin said he wanted to create a balance on the show of both intelligent and outrageous factors on the show and its characters. He is not entirely positive if the show will be made into a film.

“It’s getting ridiculous (and) expensive,” Ellin said. “(I’ve) got to write a script — need a story first.”

Senior Stephanie Dewhurst said she thinks the movie is a good idea.

“You can tie everything up. It’s different to see a 30-minute show made into an hour-long production. It’s a new element,” she said.

Although the movie is up in the air, Ellin is working on two new television shows: “Forty” and “Da Brick.”
 
Ellin said a minimal amount of talent is needed to truly succeed in the industry. Although it is important, it mostly revolves around one’s own perseverance.

Schneider agreed.

“He’s a really cool guy, hardworking,” Schneider said. “Like he said, perseverance. It takes that. I’m looking forward to see how he grows past ‘Entourage.’”