Reality television stars Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo are expanding their creative reach, landing a development deal with Netflix for a half-hour scripted comedy. The series, currently untitled, will star Berner and DeSorbo as fictionalized versions of themselves, navigating life and friendship in New York City. The project marks a significant step for the duo, known for their appearances on Bravo’s Summer House and their popular podcast, Giggly Squad, as they transition into the world of scripted television.
The comedy is shaping up to be a high-profile collaboration. It’s co-written and will be headlined by Berner and DeSorbo, with the acclaimed Amy Poehler – known for her work on Parks and Recreation and Saturday Night Live – producing through her Paper Kite Productions. Kay Cannon, whose credits include Pitch Perfect and 30 Rock, will serve as showrunner and co-writer, bringing her extensive experience in comedy to the project. Universal Television, where Paper Kite Prods. Is based, is the studio behind the series.
The premise centers on the dynamic between Berner and DeSorbo as they support each other through personal growth and challenges. According to details released by Netflix, the series will follow the pair as they support one another “shed their baggage and emerge as the people they’ve always wanted to be.” The show’s focus on female friendship and self-discovery echoes themes explored in other successful comedies, notably Poehler’s earlier work on Comedy Central’s Broad City, which starred Ilana Glazer and Abbi Jacobson.
From Reality TV to Scripted Series: A Natural Evolution
Berner and DeSorbo’s journey to this point has been anything but conventional. The pair first connected while working at different companies in New York City, but their bond solidified during their time on Summer House, joining the show for its third season. Berner departed after Season 5 to pursue a career in stand-up comedy, while DeSorbo continued on the show until its ninth season, simultaneously building a following as a fashion influencer and launching her sleepwear line, Daphne.
Their shared experiences and undeniable chemistry led to the creation of Giggly Squad, a podcast that has quickly gained a dedicated audience. In 2026, the podcast was recognized with the Podcast of the Year award at the iHeartPodcast Awards, further solidifying their presence in the entertainment landscape. The duo have also begun to explore acting roles, with an upcoming appearance in Mindy Kaling’s Hulu comedy series, Not Suitable For Work.
The partnership with Poehler appears to have been a pivotal moment. Berner opened for Poehler and Tina Fey in May 2025, and both Berner and DeSorbo were guests on Poehler’s podcast, Good Hang, around the same time. Poehler, recognizing their comedic timing and potential, brought the project to fruition, also enlisting her longtime friend and collaborator, Kay Cannon.
A Strong Production Lineup Backing the New Comedy
The development of this series highlights Universal Television’s growing relationship with Netflix. Universal TV has grow a key supplier of comedy series to the streaming giant, with shows like Mike Schur’s The Man On the Inside, Tina Fey’s The Four Seasons, and Darren Star’s upcoming series Uncorked already on the platform. Darren Star’s Uncorked is expected to premiere later this year.
Beyond the Netflix project, both Berner and DeSorbo have continued to build their individual brands. In 2024-25, they took Giggly Squad on a successful tour across the U.S. And Canada, including two sold-out shows at Radio City Music Hall. They are also the authors of How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously, a bestselling book that reflects their lighthearted approach to life.
Individually, Berner showcased her comedic talents with a 2024 Netflix comedy special, Hannah Berner: We Ride At Dawn, while DeSorbo recently hosted the red carpet at the Actor Awards for Netflix, demonstrating her growing presence in the entertainment industry.
Industry Support and Future Prospects
The creative team behind the scenes is equally impressive. Kay Cannon is currently directing the upcoming Netflix romantic comedy One Attempt Remaining, starring Jennifer Garner and John Cena, and recently directed the Hulu comedy pilot Don’t Get High. Both Berner (represented by WME, Entertainment 360, and Hansen, Jacobson, Teller) and DeSorbo (represented by WME and Hansen, Jacobson, Teller) have strong representation supporting their ventures.
Amy Poehler, who recently won the first podcast Golden Globe for Good Hang, as reported by Deadline, continues to be a driving force in comedy, co-creating with Mike Schur and starring in Peacock’s upcoming series, Dig. She is represented by WME, 3 Arts, and Sloane, Offer, Weber & Dern.
While a premiere date has not yet been announced, the project has already secured a script-to-series commitment from Netflix, indicating the streamer’s confidence in the concept and the talent involved. The next step will be the completion of the script and the casting of supporting roles. Fans of Berner and DeSorbo, as well as those who enjoy witty, relatable comedies, will be watching closely for updates.
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