Is “Nobody Wants This” Inspired by a True Story? All You Need to Know

On September 26, 2024, Netflix unveiled all ten episodes of the romantic comedy series *Nobody Wants This*, which has been created by Erin Foster. The show delves into an unexpected romance blossoming between two individuals from starkly different backgrounds and personalities.

The official show synopsis states:

“An agnostic s*x podcaster becomes romantically involved with a newly single rabbi, but will their vastly differing lifestyles and intrusive families allow their relationship to thrive?”

Upon its release, *Nobody Wants This* quickly ascended into Netflix’s Top 10, captivating audiences with its intriguing narrative. This compelling premise led many viewers to speculate about its authenticity. According to Erin Foster, the creator, the storyline draws inspiration from her own romantic experiences with her husband, Simon Tikhman.

Inspired by the Creator’s Love Journey

“This show is based on the best decision I ever made: falling in love with a wonderful Jewish boy,” Erin Foster revealed while speaking to Tudum on September 26, 2024.

In *Nobody Wants This*, Adam Brody stars as Noah Roklov, an open-minded rabbi, while Kristen Bell plays Joanne, a lively s*x and dating podcaster who is adventurous, extroverted, and agnostic. The lead characters are modeled after Foster and Tikhman.

Elle reported on October 4, 2024, that Erin and Simon crossed paths around 2018. During one of their early interactions, Simon mentioned that any future wife of his should be Jewish. However, Erin shared a similar perspective to that of her character Joanne, identifying herself as agnostic.

Despite the differences, romance swiftly unfolded between them. Erin embraced Judaism through a ten-week program at the American Jewish University, eventually leading to their marriage in 2019.

Similar to the couple in *Nobody Wants This*, Erin and Simon encountered challenges due to their varying cultural backgrounds. Simon hails from a family of immigrant Russian Jews, while Erin and her sister, Sara, come from a prominent entertainment lineage in Los Angeles.

In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar on September 26, 2024, Erin reflected on their relationship:

“We came from completely different worlds, and our contrasting perspectives created unique challenges as we began our life together,” stated Erin.

Effectively, the Netflix romantic comedy depicts a fictionalized version of the journey leading up to Erin and Simon’s wedding. During a conversation with The Los Angeles Times on September 28, 2024, Erin expressed that the series serves as a tribute to her husband.

“I am truly enamored with Simon; he inspires me. This show is like a heartfelt letter to him,” she mentioned.

Fictional Adaptations in the Series

While *Nobody Wants This* largely reflects Erin and Simon’s actual love story, certain narrative alterations were made to heighten the drama within the series.

For example, Noah, the fictional version of Simon, is depicted as a rabbi, whereas Simon was not in that role upon meeting Erin. He is, in fact, the co-founder of a music management firm and maintains a deep connection to his religious and cultural heritage, according to Elle.

Additonally, Erin’s sister Sara was reportedly supportive of their relationship. However, her character Morgan in the show is portrayed as less favorable to the romance, creating additional tension in the storyline.

Cast and Crew of Nobody Wants This

The series is brought to life by showrunners Erin Foster, Craig DiGregorio, Jenni Konner, and Bruce Eric Kaplan. Kristen Bell, Oly Obst, Sara Foster, Danielle Stokdyk, and Jeff Morton serve as executive producers, among others.

The talented cast of *Nobody Wants This* includes:

• Kristen Bell as Joanne
• Adam Brody as Noah Roklov
• Justine Lupe as Morgan
• Timothy Simons as Sasha Roklov
• Stephanie Faracy as Lynn
• Tovah Feldshuh as Bina Roklov
• Paul Ben-Victor as Ilan Roklov
• Jackie Tohn as Esther Roklov
• Emily Arlook as Rebecca
• Sherry Cola as Ashley

According to a Deadline report on October 10, 2024, Netflix has confirmed the renewal of *Nobody Wants This* for a second season.

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