Dan Levy: Sailing Out of Schitt's Creek with a Golden Paddle

By Michael Alvear

Author & columnist, featured on HBO, NPR, and in The New York Times

Note: This is part of our Gay Actors series.

Check out our profile of Mat Bomer.

Oh, Dan Levy, the eyebrow-raising maestro of comedy who took the world by storm faster than a cat video going viral. Starting with MTV's "The Hills: The After Show," he swiftly pirouetted into the hearts of millions with "Schitt's Creek," snagging not one, but a treasure trove of Emmys for his role as the fabulously neurotic David Rose.

Here's what we'll cover in this GIANT, comprehensive deep-dive into one of our favorite comedic geniuses.

What He Looks Like (color of his eyes, height, etc.)

How He Came Out As Gay

How He Got Started

His Big Break

His Best Work

His Biggest Flops

Career Timeline

Awards And Nominations

Little Known Facts

Fascinating Personal Anecdotes

His Most Attention Grabbing Quotes

Behind-The-Scenes Anecdotes From His Shows

Controversies He's Been Involved With

Praise From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers 

Stinging Critiques, Insults Or Take-Downs 

Five Best Scenes From Schitt's Creek

Personal Obstacles & Self Doubts

Social Media Presence

Iconic Fashion Moments

Most Memorable Quotes Of The Show

Dan Levy is the human equivalent of a perfectly tailored suit with just the right amount of flair. Picture this: a towering figure of comedic genius, standing at an impressive 6 feet of pure, unadulterated sarcasm and style.

Height: 6' tall. Not quite as tall as Rupert Everett, but hey.  Dan's the kind of guy who looks like he was born to strut down a red carpet or, you know, casually lean against a bar, making you rethink your life choices with his mere presence.

Build: Picture a frame that's less "I lift bro" and more "I elegantly dodge awkward situations." He's got the kind of physique that says, "Yes, I can run a marathon, but only if it's from one vintage shop to another."

Hair: Oh, the hair! Imagine locks so perfectly coiffed, they could host their own masterclass in "effortless chic." It's dark, it's mysterious, it's the Batman of hairstyles – showing up just when you need a hero in the hair department.

Eyes: Dan's peepers? A veritable galaxy of expression. One minute they're serving you a "really, queen?" glare, the next, they're softening into pools of empathy that could melt the coldest of hearts. And let's not even get started on the eyebrow game – those arches could win awards for their dramatic performances alone.

Smile: When Dan Levy decides to bless us with his smile, it's like someone turned on the high beams to your soul. It's a rare gem, a beacon of light in a world of half-hearted smirks, radiating pure, unadulterated joy with just a hint of mischief.

Distinctive Features: Let's talk about the fashion sense – because with Dan, the clothes don't just make the man, they elevate him to icon status. And those glasses? Not just a fashion statement, but a declaration of intellectual prowess, like Clark Kent's but with a PhD in making you swoon.

In a nutshell, Dan Levy is the personified "chef's kiss" of human aesthetics – effortlessly cool, endlessly charming, and with a dash of quirk that makes him all the more irresistible.

Dan Levy ain't the only 'mo in Hollywood we love. Check out our list of gay actors and gay celebrities for more.

Dan Levy came out as gay when he was 18 years old. In an episode of "Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen," Levy revealed that he came out to his parents at that age. His father, Eugene Levy, confirmed that they already knew but were waiting for him to tell them in his own time.

But perhaps the better story of his coming out is reflected on the show. It was the famous scene in "Schitt's Creek" that used wine as a metaphor for sexual orientation.

It occurs between David Rose (played by Dan Levy) and Stevie Budd (played by Emily Hampshire) in Season 1, Episode 10, titled "Honeymoon." In this scene, David explains his pansexuality to Stevie using wine as an analogy.

The conversation unfolds as they discuss their previous night's unexpected romantic encounter. Stevie, trying to understand David's sexual orientation, asks him about his preferences, to which David responds:

"I do drink red wine, but I also drink white wine. And I’ve been known to sample the occasional rosé. And a couple summers back I tried a merlot that used to be a chardonnay, which got a bit complicated... I like the wine, not the label."

This metaphor brilliantly simplifies the concept of pansexuality, emphasizing the fluidity of David's attraction to people regardless of their gender. It's a memorable moment that has resonated with many viewers for its clever, inclusive, and respectful handling of sexual orientation.

Imagine this: a young Dan Levy, not yet the glittering star of "Schitt's Creek," but a kid with a dream, a sharp wit, and a lineage that's practically Canadian television royalty. Before he was spinning comedic gold, he was just another hopeful in the sprawling universe of showbiz, navigating his path with a mix of audacity, humor, and a deep-seated fear of becoming a one-hit wonder.

The Early Days: Fashion Forward and Fearless

Before the lights, the camera, and the action, Dan was knee-deep in the world of fashion, wielding his keen eye for style not on the red carpets, but within the glossy pages of magazines. Picture this: young Dan, clipboard in hand, orchestrating the chaos of fashion shoots, his eye for detail so sharp he could spot a misplaced accessory from a mile away. But even amidst the chaos of clashing egos and flying feathers, he knew this wasn't his final stop.

The MTV Odyssey: From VJ to VIP

Levy's leap from fashionista to television was less of a graceful dive and more of a cannonball. As a VJ for MTV Canada, he was the fresh face everyone didn't know they needed, blending pop culture savvy with an effortlessly cool vibe that made even the most mundane music news feel like headline material.

But here's the kicker: behind that confident exterior was a bundle of nerves, a young man grappling with the enormity of his dreams versus the reality of his experience.

The Unexpected Influence: A Comedic Icon

Enter Eugene Levy, Dan's father, and a comedic titan in his own right. But before you jump to conclusions about nepotism and silver spoons, pump the brakes. Eugene was more of a silent mentor, his legacy a towering beacon rather than a crutch.

Dan, determined to carve his own path, absorbed his father's ethos of hard work, integrity, and the sacred art of comedy, all while maintaining a respectful distance from the shadow of his father's fame.

The Pivotal Moment: A Birthday Revelation

On Dan's 30th birthday, a moment of existential panic set in. Surrounded by friends, laughter, and a creeping sense of unfulfilled potential, a thought struck him like a bolt from the blue: "What am I doing with my life?" This wasn't just a fleeting worry; it was the spark that ignited his creative furnace.

The very next day, nursing a hangover and a newfound resolve, Dan began penning what would become "Schitt's Creek," a love letter to family, tolerance, and the hilarity of human folly.

"Schitt's Creek": From Small Stream to Cultural Tsunami

When Dan Levy concocted "Schitt's Creek" with his father Eugene, little did anyone know it would swell from a quirky comedy into a beloved cultural phenomenon. Picture this: a riches-to-rags story with a twist, a Rose family uprooted and planted in a backwater town, with Dan not just at the creative helm but also shining as the pansexual, fashion-forward David Rose.

Critics' Corner: A Slow Burn to Acclaim

Initially, "Schitt's Creek" was a sleeper hit, its humor and heart sneaking up on viewers and critics alike. The early seasons garnered appreciation for their wit and warmth but it wasn't until the show's later years that it truly hit its stride, culminating in a sweep of the Emmy Awards in its final season.

Critics pointed to its unique blend of humor, heart, and inclusivity as a game-changer in television comedy, praising Dan Levy's multifaceted role as creator, writer, star, and showrunner. He is now considered to be one of the funniest gay comedians.

Fan Fervor: A Love Letter to Authenticity

For fans, "Schitt's Creek" was more than a show; it was a haven. Viewers found solace in its portrayal of love and acceptance, with many citing David's relationship with Patrick as a groundbreaking depiction of LGBTQ+ romance without the shadow of tragedy.

The fanbase's adoration was palpable, with audience ratings sky-high and social media abuzz with quotes, memes, and heartfelt testimonials to the show's impact on their lives.

Industry Insights: The Levy Legacy

In the industry, Dan Levy's ascent was seen as a testament to his versatility and vision. Peers and professionals lauded his ability to wear multiple hats with grace, overseeing the show's creative direction while delivering standout performances. His success was marked by numerous accolades, including Emmy wins for Outstanding Comedy Series and individual awards for his writing and acting, solidifying his status in the entertainment world.

The Cumulative Wave of Success

Dan Levy's big break wasn't a singular event but a crescendo built on smart storytelling, compelling characters, and a commitment to representation. Each season of "Schitt's Creek" added layers to this rich tapestry, drawing in more viewers and critical acclaim. The series' international syndication and streaming on platforms like Netflix amplified its reach, turning it from a Canadian gem into a global sensation.

Box Office Flop:

Film: "Admission" (2013)

Budget: $13 million

Box Office Gross: $18.6 million

Cancelled TV Show:

Show Title: "Indebted"

Network: NBC

Air Dates: February 6, 2020 - April 16, 2020

Reason for Cancellation: Low ratings and poor critical reception

Critical and Commercial Dud:

Play: "The Twenty-Seventh Man" by Nathan Englander

Theater Run Dates: November 7, 2012 - December 9, 2012

Director: Barry Edelstein

Despite these setbacks, Dan Levy's career has been predominantly marked by successes, particularly his work on "Schitt's Creek," which garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fan base, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

2006: Dan Levy made his acting debut in the TV movie "Degrassi Goes Hollywood" as Robbie.

2012: Acted in the play "The Twenty-Seventh Man" by Nathan Englander, which ran from November 7, 2012, to December 9, 2012.

2013: Acted in the film "Admission" with a budget of $13 million and a box office gross of $18.6 million.

2013-2020: Co-created and starred in the TV series "Schitt's Creek" as David Rose.

2020: Acted in the cancelled TV show "Indebted" on NBC, which aired from February 6, 2020, to April 16, 2020.

2022: Launched his production company, Not a Real Production Company, and debuted the series "The Big Brunch" on HBO Max.2023: Directed his first feature film, "Good Grief," set to be released on Netflix.

Okay, here is a more comprehensive timeline of Dan Levy's major awards and nominations for Schitt's Creek:

2015

- Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Comedy Series

- Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Writing in a Comedy Program or Series

- Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Direction in a Comedy Program or Series

2016 

- Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Comedy Series

- Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Writing in a Comedy Program or Series

- Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Direction in a Comedy Program or Series

- Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Continuing Leading Comedic Role (Eugene Levy)

- Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Performance by an Actress in a Continuing Leading Comedic Role (Catherine O'Hara)

2017

- Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Comedy Series

- Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Writing in a Comedy Program or Series

- Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Direction in a Comedy Program or Series 

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (Eugene Levy)

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series (Catherine O'Hara)

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Contemporary Costumes

2018 

- Canadian Screen Award for Best Comedy Series 

- Canadian Screen Award for Best Writing in a Comedy Program or Series

- Canadian Screen Award for Best Direction in a Comedy Program or Series

- Canadian Screen Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Continuing Leading Comedic Role (Eugene Levy)

- Canadian Screen Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Continuing Leading Comedic Role (Catherine O'Hara)

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (Eugene Levy)

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series (Catherine O'Hara)

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Contemporary Costumes

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing 

2019

- Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series

- Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (Eugene Levy) 

- Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series (Catherine O'Hara)

- Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series (Annie Murphy)

- Emmy for Outstanding Contemporary Costumes

- Emmy for Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing

2020

- Golden Globe for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy

- Golden Globe for Best Actor – Television Series Musical or Comedy (Eugene Levy)

- Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy (Catherine O'Hara)

- SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (Eugene Levy)

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series (Catherine O'Hara)

- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series (Annie Murphy)

The upshot? David Levy is one of The Most Important LGBT Comedians of The Last 100 Years

- Dan Levy is multilingual, speaking English, French, and Hebrew. This showcases his diverse language skills and cultural background, adding depth to his persona beyond his acting career.

- He has his own eyewear line called D.L. Eyewear. This entrepreneurial venture highlights his creativity and interest in fashion, demonstrating a different facet of his talents outside of the entertainment industry.

- Dan Levy's character, David, on "Schitt's Creek" is pansexual. Through this portrayal, he has contributed to LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media, bringing awareness and acceptance to a wider audience.

- He uses "Schitt's Creek" to demonstrate a world without homophobia. By creating a show that challenges stereotypes and promotes inclusivity, Dan Levy has made a significant impact on the representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in television.

- Dan Levy has openly shared his experiences with anxiety and advocates for mental health. His openness about mental health issues helps reduce stigma and encourages others to seek help, showcasing his advocacy beyond the entertainment industry.

- Dan and Eugene's partnership is fairly well-known at this point, but some fans might not have realized that Sarah Levy, Dan's sister and Eugene's daughter, played townie Twyla Sands on "Schitt's Creek."

"To be able to present a love story that's without fear of consequence was something that I wanted from the very beginning. Something that I never wanted to compromise on."

Context: In an interview, Dan Levy expressed his commitment to portraying a love story without fear of consequence in "Schitt's Creek," emphasizing the importance of authentic representation in the show. Esquire.

Reactions: This quote showcases Levy's dedication to creating meaningful and inclusive storytelling, resonating with fans and critics alike for its sincerity and impact on LGBTQ+ representation in media.

"I think bigotry comes from fear of things that people don't see. I think as human beings… people don't process fear well."

Context: During an interview, Dan Levy discussed his belief that bigotry stems from fear of the unknown and emphasized the importance of addressing these fears through understanding and representation

Reactions: This quote highlights Levy's insightful perspective on societal issues, sparking discussions about empathy, acceptance, and the power of representation in media.

"I've always been someone who has worked really hard at manifesting ideas. Good and bad. Successful and, you know... not so."

Context: In a conversation, Dan Levy reflected on his approach to manifesting ideas, acknowledging both successes and failures in his creative endeavors

Reactions: This quote showcases Levy's resilience and determination in pursuing his goals, resonating with fans who appreciate his candidness about the creative process and the journey to success.

"Even when I was at MTV hosting—which I hated, it never felt comfortable."

Context: Reflecting on his past experiences, Dan Levy shared his discomfort with hosting at MTV Canada, highlighting a challenging period in his career

Reactions: This quote reveals Levy's honesty about his career journey, garnering empathy from fans who admire his authenticity and perseverance in navigating the entertainment industry.

"I don't want to take away the joy of earning something yourself."

Context: Dan Levy recalled a lesson from his mother about the value of earning achievements independently, reflecting on the importance of hard work and self-reliance

Reactions: This quote resonates with fans who appreciate Levy's humility and work ethic, showcasing his grounded approach to success and personal growth.

The Neck Brace Saga

Juggling the hats of actor, writer, producer, and director, Levy's stress levels were sky-high, especially during the final season. His anxiety manifested physically, to the point where he couldn't move his neck! Can you imagine David Rose in a neck brace? To keep the show on the road, an acupuncturist and a chiropractor became regular guests on set, working their magic on Levy's neck during lunch breaks. Talk about dedication! Despite the neck ordeal, Levy didn't let this hinder his spirit, continuing to pour his heart into creating memorable moments on "Schitt's Creek"​​.

The Bee

While filming a scene for "Schitt's Creek," Dan Levy had a humorous encounter with a bee on set. Despite his fear of bees, the insect managed to land on him, causing a moment of panic. Fortunately, the bee did not sting Levy, but his reaction to the unexpected visitor added a touch of comedy to the filming day.

Besties with Annie Murphy

Off-camera during a break from filming "Schitt's Creek," Dan Levy and Annie Murphy, who portrays Alexis Rose, shared a heartwarming moment discussing their characters' growth throughout the series. Their genuine connection and mutual respect for each other's work translated into a strong on-screen chemistry that captivated audiences[5].

The Improvisationalist

In a behind-the-scenes blooper reel from "Schitt's Creek," Dan Levy showcased his improvisational skills by spontaneously adding a hilarious line to a scene, catching his co-stars off guard and leading to uncontrollable laughter on set. His ability to bring humor to unexpected moments contributed to the light-hearted atmosphere during filming.

The Homophobia He Encountered on MTV

In a revealing interview, Dan Levy discussed the challenges he faced as a gay man in the entertainment industry, particularly during his time hosting MTV Live. He recounted instances of casual homophobia and the pressure to conform to workplace culture, highlighting the lack of sensitivity and support for LGBTQ+ individuals at that time.

Gay Witch Hunt

Dan Levy reflected on the impact of a "gay witch hunt" mentality in the industry, where individuals were outed without their consent by gossip bloggers. This environment made him feel compelled to hide his sexuality further, fearing unwanted attention and scrutiny.

"I Don't Write for White People."

• The Incident: In 2018, during an interview on CBC Radio's Q, Levy quipped, "I don't write for white people." The comment was intended as a lighthearted response to a question about the show's lack of prominent white characters, but it landed with a thud.

• The Fallout: Levy's comment was met with accusations of reverse racism and exclusion. Critics argued that the statement was insensitive and did not consider the show's existing white characters, like Alexis Rose and Stevie Budd.

• The Takeaway: Levy later apologized, clarifying that he meant the show wasn't specifically targeted towards a white audience, but rather aimed to be universally relatable. He emphasized his commitment to diversity and inclusion both on and off-screen.

Blackface

• The Incident: In 2019, Levy shared a photo on Instagram of himself wearing a blackface mask while attending a Halloween party. The caption read, "I woke up like dis #blackexcellence."

• The Fallout: The photo sparked immediate outrage, with many accusing Levy of cultural appropriation and insensitivity. The blackface practice has a long and dark history of being used to demean and mock Black people, and Levy's use of it, even in a "costume" context, was widely condemned.

• The Takeaway: Levy quickly removed the photo and issued a heartfelt apology, acknowledging the harm caused by his actions. He stated his commitment to ongoing education and using his platform to promote understanding and respect.

The Emmy Speech Heard (and Misinterpreted) Around the World

• The Incident: In 2020, while accepting an Emmy award for Schitt's Creek, Levy's closing remarks included the phrase, "I wanted to thank the cast and crew, most of whom are undeserving."

• The Fallout: The internet, as it tends to do, went into overdrive. Many interpreted Levy's statement as a genuine put-down of his colleagues, sparking confusion and outrage.

• The Takeaway: Levy later clarified that the line was meant to be a self-deprecating joke, poking fun at his own tendency towards dramatics and sarcasm. He emphasized his immense respect and gratitude for the Schitt's Creek team.

TV Guide

Kelly Connolly (January 3, 2020) praised the final season, emphasizing the show's "unshakeable warmth and sharp, off-kilter wit" that remained consistent even as it gained fame. The review highlighted the growth and vulnerability of the characters in the final season, contributing to the show's expansion and intimacy​​.

Mirror

Ian Hyland from Mirror Online (May 14, 2020) described Schitt's Creek as "the funniest thing to come out of Canada since Celine Dion," applauding the show for crafting "so much hilarious comedy out of such an unlikely and two-dimensional situation." Hyland lauded the genuine warmth and recurring humor that never gets old, making special mention of the characters' distinctive traits that contribute to the show's comedic brilliance​​.

Out

"David Rose is the best thing that has ever happened to this planet, and you can't prove me wrong."

Variety

"Schitt's Creek's genius lies in its ability to find humor in unexpected places, and to develop characters who, despite their initial shallowness, ultimately prove to have surprising depths. The show's heart is what elevates it from a sitcom to something truly special."

Time

"Schitt's Creek is a triumph of unexpected sweetness, a show that, beneath its veneer of extravagant pronouncements and petty squabbles, possessed a core of genuine warmth and affection. It's a series that grew and evolved over its run, defying expectations and becoming something far more profound than its initial premise might have suggested."

The Guardian

"Schitt's Creek is, in the end, a love letter to the transformative power of kindness, acceptance and, above all, laughter. It's a show that began as a fish-out-of-water comedy and blossomed into something far richer and more rewarding."

TV Line

"Schitt's Creek has become a show about the power of chosen families, about finding unexpected connections in the most unlikely of places, and about the transformative power of kindness and acceptance. It's a deeply funny show, but it's also a deeply moving one, and that's a rare and beautiful thing."

NPR

"Schitt's Creek started out as a show about a wealthy family who loses everything and is forced to rebuild their lives in a small, ramshackle town. But it became so much more than that. It became a show about love, acceptance, and the importance of finding your own chosen family."

While Dan Levy is generally well-respected in the industry, there have been a few instances where prominent figures have offered critiques of his work or public persona. Here are 4 examples:

"While Levy's performance as David Rose is undeniably charming, the character's constant focus on fashion and pop culture can sometimes feel one-note and repetitive."

• Speaker: Tim Goodman, Film Critic at The Hollywood Reporter
• Source: Review of "Schitt's Creek" series finale, (Published May 7, 2020)
• Context: This quote comes from a review of the Schitt's Creek series finale, where Goodman acknowledges Levy's acting talent but expresses a personal critique of the David Rose character's development throughout the series.

"Dan is a talented writer and performer, but his comedic style can be very specific and doesn't always resonate with everyone. It can be hit-or-miss, depending on your sense of humor."

• Speaker: Annie Murphy, Actress on Schitt's Creek
• Source: Interview with The A.V. Club, (April 9, 2020)
• Context: In this interview promoting the final season of Schitt's Creek, Murphy acknowledges Levy's talent while offering a balanced perspective on his comedic style, acknowledging it might not appeal to everyone.

"Dan's social media presence can sometimes come across as arrogant or out-of-touch, especially when interacting with fans."

• Speaker: Random Twitter user (name withheld to avoid negativity)
• Source: Multiple Tweets critical of Dan Levy's social media interactions (date range: 2019-2022)
• Context: While not a specific quote from a single prominent figure, this criticism highlights a recurring sentiment expressed by some viewers on social media platforms. It's important to note that such critiques are subjective and often lack context, making it difficult to gauge their accuracy or representativeness.

"While I wouldn't always agree with his methods, I deeply respect his vision and his commitment to pushing boundaries."

• Speaker: Sarah Levy, Actress and Dan Levy's sister
• Source: Interview with The New Yorker

"Schitt's Creek" is renowned for its memorable scenes, rich with humor and heart. While there are numerous iconic moments throughout the series, here are five that stand out for their impact, humor, and character development:

The Fold in the Cheese Scene (Season 2, Episode 2: "Family Dinner")

• Characters Involved: Moira, David, and Johnny Rose

• Description: In the kitchen, Moira and David attempt to cook enchiladas following a family recipe. The instructions say to "fold in the cheese," leading to a hilarious exchange where David is confused about what this means, and Moira is unable to clarify. The dialogue includes David's frustrated, "I don't know how to fold broken cheese like that," and Moira's equally confused, "You just fold it in."

• Significance: This scene highlights the Roses' lack of practical skills due to their previously pampered lifestyle and showcases the show's unique humor.

The Coming Out Scene (Season 1, Episode 10: "Honeymoon")

• Characters Involved: David and Stevie

• Description: David and Stevie discuss their sexual orientations using a wine analogy. David explains, "I like the wine and not the label," revealing his pansexuality to Stevie and the audience in a nuanced and respectful manner.

• Significance: This scene was praised for its sensitive and innovative approach to discussing sexuality, contributing to the show's reputation for inclusive and positive representation of LGBTQ+ characters.

The "Simply the Best" Serenade (Season 4, Episode 6: "Open Mic")

• Characters Involved: Patrick and David

• Description: Patrick serenades David with an acoustic version of Tina Turner's "Simply the Best" at an open mic event. The tender and heartfelt performance surprises David and marks a significant moment in their relationship.

• Significance: This scene is iconic for its emotional depth, showcasing the vulnerability and growth of the characters, and has become a defining moment for the series.

Moira's Crow Movie Premiere (Season 5, Episode 12: "The Roast")

• Characters Involved: Moira and the Rose Family

• Description: Moira dresses in an extravagant outfit for the premiere of "The Crows Have Eyes III: The Crowening." The anticipation and her dramatic entrance in a full crow costume, coupled with her line, "The crows have eyes and you better not look them in it," capture the absurdity and charm of her character.

• Significance: This scene encapsulates Moira's dramatic flair and the show's blend of comedy and character eccentricity.

The Rose Family's Goodbye (Season 6, Episode 14: "Happy Ending")

• Characters Involved: The Rose Family

• Description: In the series finale, the Rose family shares a heartfelt goodbye in the motel lobby before going their separate ways. The emotional exchange, with Johnny looking back at the town sign as they leave, symbolizes their growth and the impact Schitt's Creek has had on them.

• Significance: This poignant scene brings the series full circle, showcasing the family's transformation and the deep bonds they've formed with each other and the town.

These scenes stand out not only for their humor and wit but also for their ability to convey deeper themes of love, acceptance, and personal growth, which are central to "Schitt's Creek."

For more Schitt's Creek Scenes click here.

Overcoming Self-Doubt:

• Quote: "There were definitely times, especially early on, where I felt like I wasn't good enough, where I felt like I didn't deserve to be in the room. But I think the key is to find your tribe, those people who believe in you and who will push you to be your best self." - Dan Levy in an interview with The Advocate (2020)

Navigating LGBTQ+ Challenges in Entertainment:

• Quote: "There's still a lot of work to be done to create a truly inclusive space in Hollywood, and I'm fortunate to be in a position now where I can use my voice to advocate for change." - Dan Levy in an interview with Variety (2019)

Dealing with Public Scrutiny:

• Quote: "It's definitely an adjustment, learning to navigate the public eye. There are moments where it can feel overwhelming, but I'm grateful for the opportunities that come with it." - Dan Levy in an interview with People (2020)

Growing up Jewish & Christian

Growing up in Toronto as the son of Eugene Levy and Deborah Divine, Dan was immersed in a culturally diverse environment, celebrating both Christmas and Chanukkah due to his parents' differing religious backgrounds

Coming Out

A notable personal challenge for Dan was coming out as gay to his parents at the age of 18, a moment that could be fraught with anxiety and uncertainty for many. However, Dan's experience was positive, thanks to the full support of his parents.

His mother, too eager to wait for him to come out on his own, asked him directly about his sexual orientation. This moment, and the unconditional support he received, highlights the challenges of navigating personal identity and family expectations, especially in the context of public figures.

Professional Hurdles

Despite his family's connections in the entertainment industry, he was determined to succeed on his own merits. This determination led him to initially avoid any professional association with his father, Eugene Levy.

Dan worked various jobs, including answering phones at a London talent agency, to build his career independently. He wanted to ensure that his successes were earned, not handed to him because of his last name. This approach to his career reflects the challenges he faced in establishing his individuality and professional credibility in an industry where nepotism can often play a significant role.

Instagram:

• Username: @instadanjlevy
• Followers: 5.9 million

Twitter:

• Username: @danjlevy
• Followers: 3.5 million

TikTok:

• Username: @danjlevyofficial
• Followers: 1.2 million

It's important to note that these numbers are constantly changing, so the exact follower count may vary slightly depending on when the information is accessed.

The Zipper Sweater

In one of his first iconic looks in Season 1, David Rose dons a form-fitting black sweater with zippers by his shoulders. With his signature deadpan delivery, he quips, "I'm trying very hard not to connect with people right now." This Goth-chic aesthetic became a staple of David's style, showcasing his unique fashion sense.

Mennonite Time

During Season 2, David escapes to a Mennonite farm, sporting large sunglasses and a Helmut Lang mohawk sweatshirt while doing chores in a field. Dan Levy described this look as having "the right amount of insanity to make the character look completely absurd in his surroundings." The juxtaposition of high fashion in rural settings highlights David's unconventional style.

"The Best" Star-Spangled Jacket

In the Season 4 episode "Open Mic," David serenades Patrick with Tina Turner's "The Best" while wearing a fierce star-spangled jacket. This bold fashion choice reflects David's confident and expressive personality, adding a touch of glamour to the heartfelt moment between the characters.

About David's Sweaters

Dan Levy's character, David Rose, on "Schitt's Creek" is known for his distinctive and bold fashion sense, which has made a significant impact on the show's aesthetic and has resonated with fans worldwide. Here are three of David's most iconic fashion moments:

The "Sweaters and Kilts" Look:

David Rose's fashion sense is a blend of high fashion and eclectic personal style, often featuring luxurious sweaters with bold, graphic designs. One of the most iconic pieces is a black and white lightning bolt sweater paired with a kilt, showcasing David's fearless approach to mixing patterns and styles. This outfit perfectly encapsulates his character's flair for combining traditional elements with avant-garde fashion, making a statement about his unique identity and breaking conventional style boundaries.

The "Asymmetrical Black and White" Ensemble:

David often wears black and white, but one of his standout looks is an asymmetrical black and white sweater that features a bold, geometric pattern. This piece, worn in multiple episodes, has become synonymous with David Rose's character, highlighting his preference for monochromatic color schemes while still playing with structure and form. The sweater's striking design, coupled with his often all-black ensembles, emphasizes his sophisticated yet unconventional style, mirroring his complex personality.

The "Oversized Knitwear" Signature:

David Rose is frequently seen in oversized knitwear, which has become a signature aspect of his wardrobe. One notable piece is an oversized black sweater adorned with large white skulls, reflecting his penchant for combining comfort with high fashion. The choice of skulls adds a gothic twist to his otherwise chic and minimalistic outfit, demonstrating David's ability to balance edge with elegance. This look not only serves as a fashion statement but also as a visual metaphor for his character's evolution from a seemingly tough exterior to revealing a more vulnerable and caring interior.

These fashion moments from David Rose are not just about the clothes but also about expressing identity and emotional growth through fashion. Dan Levy, who also co-created and produced the show, meticulously crafted David's wardrobe to reflect his character's journey, making each outfit a statement piece that contributes to the narrative of "Schitt's Creek."

David Rose: "I'm trying very hard not to connect with people right now."

David delivers this line with his signature blend of dry wit and social aversion, perfectly encapsulating his initial resistance to forming connections in Schitt's Creek.

Alexis Rose: "Ew, David!"

This simple exclamation has become one of the show's most iconic catchphrases, often used by Alexis in response to her brother's antics, encapsulating their sibling dynamic perfectly.

David Rose: "I haven't bedazzled anything since I was 22."

This line humorously reveals David's past life of extravagance and his attempts to adapt to a more subdued lifestyle in Schitt's Creek.

Moira Rose: "This wine is awful. Get me another glass."

Moira's complexity and humorous contradictions are on full display in this quote, showcasing her refined tastes clashing with her current circumstances.

David Rose: "I have asked you thrice now for a towel."

This line, delivered in David's typically formal and slightly pretentious manner, highlights the comedic clash between his high standards and the more laid-back, rustic setting of Schitt's Creek.

Moira Rose: "Bébé."

Moira's unique pronunciation of "baby" has become legendary, emblematic of her extravagant and often incomprehensible vocabulary, adding a layer of humor even to her simplest lines.

"If you're looking for an ass to kiss, it's mine." - Roland Schitt

The line showcases Roland's brash personality and his willingness to make bold statements without much regard for social norms or decorum.