Étoile’s first season is streaming on Prime Video.
By Elazar Abrahams
I was really looking forward to Étoile. As a huge fan of Amy Sherman-Palladino’s previous work, including Gilmore Girls, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and even the short-lived Bunheads, I had high hopes for her latest project. The idea of blending her signature snappy dialogue with the world of professional ballet sounded like a perfect pairing. And as someone who lives within walking distance of the Lincoln Center campus, I got an extra kick seeing it featured so prominently throughout the season.
There’s a lot here that works. That fast-paced, reference-packed banter is back and still just as satisfying. It genuinely scratched the post-Maisel itch I’ve had. I also loved seeing familiar faces from the Sherman-Palladino troupe pop up. Luke Kirby, who had such a memorable recurring role in Maisel as Lenny Bruce, steps into the spotlight here as a lead, and it’s fun to see him get that opportunity. Kelly Bishop, another longtime favorite, shows up too and is as sharp as ever. The whole cast is great, and it’s clear that a lot of thought went into assembling actors who could keep up with both the choreography and the script.
I also want to shout out Simon Callow, who plays a wildly problematic arts patron clearly modeled on real-world donors like the Koch brothers. His character’s presence might feel over-the-top, but it’s also very pointed and a fun bit of commentary.
The first half of the season is strong. The core idea of a talent and leadership exchange between the New York and Paris ballet companies is clever and ripe for drama. Early episodes move quickly and have a sense of fun and momentum. But as the season continues, it begins to unravel. The pacing stalls, and too many narrative threads are introduced without meaningful follow-through. I’m all for a show planting seeds for future seasons, but that only works if this season tells a complete story on its own.
That said, I still enjoyed my time with Étoile. It’s gorgeous to look at, the performances are excellent, and the writing still has that particular zest that only Sherman-Palladino can deliver. It just didn’t quite hit the emotional or storytelling highs of her previous shows. As a first season, it’s solid, and I’d absolutely watch more.
I give Étoile a B.
TV and City 