Aaron Korsh, the mastermind behind the hit cable legal drama “Suits,” is stepping into new territory with the launch of “Suits LA,” a quasi spinoff series premiering on NBC. Despite the high expectations surrounding the show, Korsh remains focused on meeting his own standards of excellence rather than worrying about public reception. With a background in investment banking, Korsh originally conceived “Suits” as a series centered on investment bankers but pivoted to a legal drama for episodic narrative ease. The show’s unexpected success on Netflix in 2023 catapulted it to the top of streaming charts, paving the way for the creation of “Suits LA.”
A New Chapter in the ‘Suits’ Universe
While Korsh spends most of his time with the show’s writers in a rented office space at the Fox lot in Century City, he occasionally visits the “Suits LA” set to oversee key scenes that shape the show’s universe. The spinoff series, set in Los Angeles, deviates from the high-rise legal battles of its predecessor to explore the world of Hollywood dealmakers and ambitious lawyers. Led by Stephen Amell as Ted Black, a former federal prosecutor turned entertainment lawyer, the show promises a mix of backstabbing, strained loyalties, and stylishly dressed characters vying for success in Tinseltown.
Korsh’s journey from finance to television writing was marked by a pivotal moment of self-reflection after a personal loss. His decision to leave Wall Street and pursue a career in Hollywood ultimately led him to a successful tenure as a writer’s assistant on various sitcoms before breaking into the industry. Despite facing challenges balancing his role as a first-time parent with the demands of creating “Suits,” Korsh looks back on the nine-season run with nostalgia and pride, reflecting on the deep satisfaction and growth that came from overcoming obstacles.
Navigating Challenges on and off the Set
As “Suits LA” enters production amid the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles, Korsh finds himself grappling with the responsibility of leading a show during a crisis. The decision to halt production due to the fires, which resulted in the displacement of cast and crew members, underscored the challenges of balancing artistic pursuits with real-world events. Despite the uncertainty and emotional strain of making tough decisions, Korsh remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of his team while delivering a compelling series to viewers.
Looking ahead to the premiere of “Suits LA,” Korsh approaches the launch with a sense of maturity and perspective gained from years of experience in the industry. While he acknowledges that the show may face comparisons to its predecessor, he emphasizes that the characters in “Suits LA” are unique individuals with their own motivations and storylines. As he prepares to unveil the next chapter in the “Suits” universe, Korsh remains focused on creating a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences and captures the essence of Hollywood’s legal landscape.
