The hit television series New Girl experienced a significant revival during its third season, largely thanks to a memorable guest appearance by the iconic musician Prince. This unexpected collaboration, detailed in the upcoming book Who's That Girl: The Untold, Definitive History of New Girl, offers a comprehensive look into the complex dynamics and humorous incidents that shaped this pivotal episode. Prince's involvement, driven by his genuine admiration for the show, brought a fresh energy and much-needed ratings boost during a period of creative and audience challenges, ultimately solidifying its place in pop culture history.
The production of the "Prince" episode was far from conventional, marked by the legendary artist's meticulous attention to detail and occasional whims. From influencing wardrobe choices and set design to having a direct hand in script revisions, Prince's deep immersion in the creative process transformed the episode into a truly unique spectacle. The cast and crew navigated various challenges, including last-minute changes and humorous misunderstandings, all while witnessing the unparalleled charisma and artistic vision of a global superstar, making for a truly unforgettable behind-the-scenes experience.
Prince's Pivotal Role in Revitalizing New Girl
During its third season, the Fox comedy series New Girl faced several creative and ratings hurdles, including a controversial storyline and concerns about declining viewership. However, the unexpected involvement of music icon Prince for a special episode titled “Prince” provided a much-needed resurgence. Series star Zooey Deschanel initially dismissed the offer as a prank, but Prince’s genuine interest in the show, fueled by his alleged habit of watching episodes on tour, quickly became a beacon of hope. His appearance was not just a ratings magnet, attracting twenty-six million viewers and becoming the series' most-watched episode, but also a significant morale booster for the cast and crew, reaffirming the show's cultural relevance.
The decision to feature Prince came at a critical juncture for New Girl. Showrunner Liz Meriwether was grappling with intricate character arcs, such as Nick and Jess's budding romance and Schmidt's two-timing antics, while also facing network pressure to broaden the show's appeal to male audiences. Prince's "magical touch" was seen as an opportunity to inject new life into the series. The plot, meticulously crafted around Prince hosting a party where he helps Jess and Nick express their feelings, was strategically placed after the Super Bowl, ensuring maximum exposure. This strategic move, combined with Prince's unique charm, transformed a challenging season into an iconic chapter in the show's history, securing its legacy as a cultural phenomenon.
Behind-the-Scenes Shenanigans and Prince's Hands-On Approach
The production of the "Prince" episode was a testament to the artist's hands-on approach and idiosyncratic personality, creating a memorable experience for everyone involved. Prince's direct involvement extended to every detail, from dictating Jess's wardrobe, famously requesting a "Stevie Nicks" aesthetic, to influencing the set's ambiance with specific musical selections and even commissioning unique artwork for his on-screen mansion. His meticulous nature, coupled with his reputation for last-minute changes, kept the production team on their toes, even leading to contingency plans involving Fred Armisen should Prince fail to appear.
Among the most talked-about anecdotes from the set was the eleventh-hour removal of Kris Jenner and Khloé Kardashian from a scene. Prince, reportedly disliking Kim Kardashian, threatened to withdraw if they were present, causing a frenzied, covert reshoot to eliminate their appearance. This incident, along with his playful interactions, such as challenging crew members to Ping-Pong, requesting vanilla-scented candles, and spontaneously delivering an inspiring speech with a bullhorn during his performance, highlighted his unique blend of artistic control and whimsical charm. These personal touches and the collective effort to accommodate his vision ultimately contributed to an episode that was not only critically acclaimed but also deeply cherished by both the cast and millions of viewers.
