What's Happening?
David Stassen, the showrunner of Netflix's 'Running Point,' has shared insights into how the sale of the Los Angeles Lakers influenced the second season of the series. The show, which is loosely based on Jeanie Buss' tenure as the controlling owner of the Lakers,
follows the fictional Gordon family's ownership of the L.A. Waves, a basketball team facing financial challenges. The real-life sale of the Lakers' majority stake to Los Angeles Dodgers owner Mark Walter occurred while the writers were developing a storyline about the potential sale of shares within the fictional team. This real-world event provided a unique opportunity to enhance the show's narrative. Stassen, who has developed a relationship with Buss, noted that the sale was unexpected but creatively beneficial, allowing the writers to explore similar themes with greater depth.
Why It's Important?
The intersection of real-world events and fictional storytelling in 'Running Point' highlights the dynamic relationship between sports, entertainment, and business. The sale of the Lakers, a significant event in the sports industry, underscores the financial and strategic decisions that sports franchises face, reflecting broader economic trends. For the entertainment industry, incorporating such real-world events can enhance the authenticity and relevance of a series, potentially increasing viewer engagement. The show's ability to adapt to these changes demonstrates the flexibility required in modern storytelling, where real-life developments can influence fictional narratives. This approach not only enriches the storyline but also provides viewers with a more relatable and timely viewing experience.
What's Next?
As 'Running Point' prepares for a potential third season, the show's creators are optimistic about its renewal, given the positive reception of the first season and Netflix's investment in a writers' room for the next installment. The continuation of the series will likely explore further the complexities of sports franchise ownership, drawing on both fictional and real-world inspirations. The show's success could encourage other series to similarly integrate real-world events into their narratives, potentially setting a trend in the entertainment industry. Additionally, the ongoing relationship between the show's creators and figures like Jeanie Buss may provide further insights and storylines for future seasons.
