Vuuugle, Weirdness, and the Early Days of Superstar, Olivia Rodrigo

Twenty one episodes as dialogue coach on Bizaardvark — and I’ll admit it: working on the show that launched Olivia Rodrigo’s career is something I mention to people at parties. Frequently. And without shame.

Created by Kyle Stegina and Josh Lehrman, and produced under the brilliant eye of showrunner and executive producer Eric Friedman (alongside EP Ron Rappaport), this Disney Channel series was endlessly fun to be part of. The show’s premise — two best friends creating funny music videos at a studio full of wild internet personalities — was ahead of its time in the best way.

Madison Hu and Olivia Rodrigo were electric together, and the genuine comedic rhythm they built across seasons two and three is something you can’t fake. DeVore Ledridge, Ethan Wacker, Maxwell Simkins, and Elie Samouhi each brought their own flavor to the Vuuugle House. It was a joyful, slightly unhinged, totally distinctive show — and I had a wonderful time being part of its world. Here’s to weird creativity in all its forms.