Before the premiere of Big Mistakes, expectations were high for Dan Levy, the acclaimed creator of Schitt’s Creek. The latter series, which won all seven major comedy Emmys in its final season, set a high bar for Levy’s future projects. Fans anticipated a follow-up that would capture the same charm and humor that made Schitt’s Creek a cultural phenomenon. However, the tragic passing of Catherine O’Hara in January 2026 halted any potential sequel plans, leaving a significant void in the landscape of comedy television.
On April 9, 2026, Levy’s new venture, Big Mistakes, premiered on Netflix, marking a decisive moment in his career. The show, which is an eight-episode crime comedy series, quickly made an impact by debuting at #2 on Netflix’s Top 10 list. This immediate success was underscored by a Rotten Tomatoes score of 95%, based on 19 critic reviews, indicating a strong reception from both audiences and critics alike.
The plot of Big Mistakes revolves around two siblings, Nicky and Morgan Dardano, who find themselves entangled in organized crime. This shift from the heartwarming themes of Schitt’s Creek to a more chaotic and crime-laden narrative reflects Levy’s versatility as a creator. He co-created the series with Rachel Sennott, who also stars in the show, suggesting a collaborative effort to explore new comedic territory.
The immediate effects of Big Mistakes on its cast and crew have been notable. Dan Levy serves as the showrunner, executive producer, and lead actor, showcasing his multifaceted talent. Alongside him, the cast includes Taylor Ortega and Laurie Metcalf, both of whom contribute to the show’s dynamic. The audience score for Big Mistakes stands at 78%, indicating that while the show has been well-received, it may not have resonated with all viewers in the same way as Schitt’s Creek.
Experts have weighed in on the significance of this shift in Levy’s career. According to a review from Vulture, “Even when it’s not being sweet, or when Nicky and Morgan are sincerely terrified about what’s happening to them, the trappings around them are so heightened and silly that Big Mistakes can’t help but come across as mostly a fun time.” This perspective highlights the balance Levy strikes between humor and chaos, a departure from the more grounded storytelling of his previous work.
Furthermore, CBR noted, “There’s something inherently funny about chaos erupting around two people who are too busy arguing about something trivial to notice the bigger picture.” This commentary underscores the comedic potential of the show’s premise, suggesting that Levy’s new direction may offer fresh and engaging content for audiences seeking a different flavor of comedy.
As Levy navigates this new chapter, he expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “I’m so excited to be bringing this truly chaotic family story to life with Netflix.” This enthusiasm reflects his commitment to evolving as a storyteller while still delivering the humor that fans have come to expect from him.
While Big Mistakes marks a significant departure from Schitt’s Creek, it also represents a continuation of Levy’s exploration of family dynamics, albeit through a more chaotic lens. As audiences engage with this new series, the legacy of Schitt’s Creek remains a powerful influence, shaping expectations and paving the way for future comedic endeavors.
