The recent presidential run of Kamala Harris seemed to have given a boost to the viewership of the popular show “Veep,” but according to the show’s creator, Armando Iannucci, any links between Harris and the main character, Selina Meyer, were not intentional. In a recent interview with The Guardian, Iannucci adamantly stated that Julia Louis Dreyfus’ character was not inspired by Harris. Despite the similarities between the two – a female senator elevated to the vice presidency and later assuming the role of president – Iannucci insists it was all just a coincidence.
Iannucci revealed that the key to creating a show that feels predictive of real-life politics is extensive research. He and the cast of “Veep” spent a considerable amount of time speaking with people in politics to ensure the authenticity of the show. This included conversations with individuals who had worked in the Vice President’s office in the past. This dedication to research is what helped the show mirror the intricacies of Washington politics so accurately.
Interestingly, Iannucci sees Selina Meyer as a shadow of Donald Trump in terms of vanity and vindictiveness. He hopes that viewers do not associate Meyer with the soon-to-be Democratic nominee for president. The portrayal of Meyer’s character traits, especially in the current political climate, adds an extra layer of complexity to the show’s narrative.
Following Joe Biden’s exit from the presidential race and his endorsement of Kamala Harris, “Veep” experienced a significant increase in viewership. However, this surge in popularity may not necessarily be a positive reflection on Harris, as Selina Meyer is known for her morally questionable decisions and behavior. Iannucci expressed his support for Harris while also acknowledging the challenges of separating the character of Meyer from the real-life politician.
The unintentional parallels between Kamala Harris and the character of Selina Meyer in “Veep” have sparked a renewed interest in the show. However, it is essential to recognize the careful research and attention to detail that went into creating the political satire that continues to resonate with audiences. While the connections between fiction and reality may be uncanny, it is ultimately up to viewers to discern the similarities and differences between the two worlds.