Yanic Truesdale’s experiences with the Étoile series, including comparisons to Gilmore Girls and insights on the Palladinos’ style.

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What’s it like reuniting with old collaborators?
Yanic Truesdale, at 55, dives back into the world of Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino with their new show Étoile.
It’s not Gilmore Girls, but echoes of that charm linger, especially with familiar faces like Kelly Bishop.
Truesdale, who played the snarky Michel Gerard back then, calls this reunion special after 26 years—it’s like slipping into comfortable shoes that fit even better now.
How has everyone changed over time?
We’re all older and wiser, aren’t we? Truesdale reflects on how he was just 28 during Gilmore Girls, fumbling through life’s twists while Amy was in her early 30s, figuring out her path.
Fast forward, and they’ve built this incredible career—think The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Bunheads.
It’s wild how experience shapes you; now, with more miles under their belt, the team nails what they set out to do.
What about the budget—has that shifted?
Did they have cash to play with before? Not really—Gilmore Girls was all about scraping by, with Amy’s big ideas getting shot down over costs.
Truesdale laughs about it, remembering the constant “no money” refrain.
But Étoile? It’s a game-changer, filming in stunning spots like Lincoln Center and Paris theaters, letting the Palladinos unleash their vision without those old limits.
How does the character differ this time around?
Is Raphael anything like Michel? Not even close.
While Michel griped endlessly, Raphael, a yes-man to his boss Geneviéve, played by Charlotte Gainsbourg, was not so agreeable outside that bubble.
Truesdale enjoys this shift; it’s fresh compared to his prickly dynamic with Lauren Graham.
Still, one thing stays constant: the Palladinos’ quick-fire Truesdale observes that the Palladinos’ trademark of rapid speech, which makes everything pop, now feels effortless.
ademark of rapid speech, which makes everything pop, now feels effortless.
What’s the big premiere buzz?
Étoile hits Prime Video on April 24—mark your calendars.
Truesdale notes how that rapid speech feels second nature now, a hallmark of the Palladinos’ style that makes everything pop.
It’s not just TV chatter; it’s life-speed conversations that keep you hooked.
If you’re a fan of their work, this one’s got that same spark, evolved and ready to shine.