The Other Two, the popular comedy series on Max that peeks into the inner workings of Hollywood, is set to end with its season three finale on June 29. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the decision to conclude the show was made after receiving multiple complaints about the creators and showrunners, Chris Kelly and Sarah Schneider. However, it’s important to note that there is no direct connection between the complaints and the show’s ending.
Numerous insiders involved in The Other Two have confirmed that Kelly and Schneider were the subjects of complaints filed with human resources. Allegations include claims of verbal abuse towards writers and overworked crew members by Kelly, as well as assertions that Schneider enabled his behavior. As a result, a formal investigation was conducted by the production, during which Kelly and Schneider were not permitted on set for a period. However, they were later cleared of any wrongdoing and allowed to return.
Despite these allegations, Kelly declined to comment on the matter, and Schneider could not be reached for comment. Neither MTV nor Max provided any additional comments beyond announcing the show’s conclusion.
The irony of a show that satirizes the ego, ambition, and malice within the entertainment industry being plagued by the very issues it lampoons is not lost on those involved. One insider states, “There’s a lot of Chris and Sarah in the show… I think a lot of their frustration comes from not being on-camera. These are two people who started off as improvisers. This is a show about people who are hungering for fame.” Another source adds, “Other writers tell stories about The Other Two writers’ rooms like other people tell ghost stories.”
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In a speech at the PEN America Literary Awards, Tina Fey, an executive producer of The Other Two and former colleague of Kelly and Schneider from their time at Saturday Night Live, appeared to jokingly reference their behavior. She mentioned that Lorne Michaels, the executive producer of SNL, was partially responsible for shaping them, stating, “Lorne, you have unleashed an army of monsters into the world. You know it, I know it, and the crew of The Other Two knows it.” However, it’s unclear whether Fey’s comments were related to the specific allegations against Kelly and Schneider.
While those involved in the production acknowledge that Kelly and Schneider have contributed to a toxic environment, some believe that the responsibility is not evenly shared. One individual describes Kelly’s behavior as mean towards Schneider, while another claims that Schneider is involved in a toxic professional relationship with Kelly.
The Other Two, starring Drew Tarver and Helene Yorke, will conclude with a season three finale that was intentionally designed to serve as a series finale. Kelly and Schneider stated in a joint statement, “It is bittersweet to say goodbye to the Dubek family after three seasons, but we always knew, both creatively and personally, that this was where we wanted to end their stories.” They expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the show and their loyal audience.
The show features a talented cast, including Case Walker, Ken Marino, Molly Shannon, Brandon Scott Jones, Josh Segarra, and Wanda Sykes. Originally greenlit at Comedy Central, The Other Two moved to HBO Max for its second and third seasons after Comedy Central exited the scripted originals business. The comedy is produced by MTV Entertainment Studios, Jax Media, and Lorne Michaels’ Broadway Video.
Suzanna Makkos, the executive vice president of originals at Max, praised the show’s creative and out-of-the-box commentary about the entertainment industry. She called it a staple in pop culture that continuously reached new heights and resonated with many viewers. Although the series has come to a natural conclusion, she wished the best for the cast and crew.
While The Other Two didn’t achieve significant ratings or awards recognition, it garnered a loyal following within the industry due to its insider perspective of Hollywood. Currently, the show holds a 97 percent rating among critics and an 84 percent score with viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.
In conclusion, The Other Two will end with its season three finale amid complaints about the behavior of its creators and showrunners, Chris Kelly and Sarah Schneider. Despite the allegations, Kelly and Schneider were cleared of any wrongdoing after a formal investigation. The show’s conclusion was already planned, and the creators expressed their gratitude to the cast, crew, and audience. The Other Two may have had a modest following, but it gained popularity for its satirical take on the entertainment industry.
