Telly 30th April 2025 by Stellar Magazine
Étoile: Gilmore Girls Creator’s New Drama Is Finally Here
It's a new kind of rhythm
Amy Sherman-Palladino, the brilliant mind behind Gilmore Girls and The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel has officially returned to our screens with her latest project, and it’s nothing short of a spectacle.
Étoile, now streaming on Prime Video, swaps small town coffee shops and vintage comedy clubs for the high stakes, high drama world of the Paris Opera Ballet. But don’t worry, her signature whip smart dialogue and theatrical flair remain front and centre.
Set against the backdrop of one of the most prestigious dance institutions in the world, Étoile follows a company of elite dancers, choreographers, and creatives as they navigate the harsh pressure of perfection, fierce rivalries, and personal ambition.
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There’s passion, drama, and yes, plenty of pirouettes. If you thought Stars Hollow had tension, just wait until you see what goes on in a ballet studio in Paris.
Sherman-Palladino and her husband, Daniel Palladino, serve as co-creators, bringing their unmistakable tone to the series. A mix of wit, style, and emotional nuance.
Fans of Gilmore Girls will spot the familiar fast paced dialogue and offbeat humour, while Maisel enthusiasts will appreciate the richly layered visuals and strong, complex female leads. Yet Étoile is still something new, moodier, more adult, and set in a world that feels both glamorous and cutthroat.
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The cast of Étoile features a fresh mix of international talent, including Maisel alum Luke Kirby, rising star Camille Razat (Emily in Paris), Lou de Laâge, and acclaimed dancer-actor Simon Robson.
Their performances bring authenticity and emotional depth to a world where every movement counts, on and off stage. With many of the cast members having real dance backgrounds, the choreography feels immersive and genuinely captivating.
The international cast brings fresh energy to the show, with dancers and actors from around the globe lending authenticity to the performances. Ballet fans will be pleased to see a level of technical accuracy that’s rare for television, unsurprising, given the Palladinos’ well-known obsession with detail.
While Étoile dives deep into the mechanics of the ballet world, it’s ultimately a show about relationships, reinvention, and resilience. Core themes that run through all of Sherman-Palladino’s best work.
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And the setting? Pure escapism. From gorgeous views of Paris to candlelit studios and glittering stages, Étoile is a visual feast. Costume lovers will swoon over the mix of dull rehearsal wear and stunning couture, while anyone dreaming of a Parisian getaway will be glued to the screen.
So, is Étoile your next binge? If you’ve ever fallen for a sharp-tongued heroine or wished your life had a soundtrack and a spotlight, this one’s for you.
Prepare for elegance, edge, and emotional punches, in other words, classic Sherman-Palladino with a new kind of rhythm.
Words by Emilia Cercel