Dan Levy and Laurie Metcalf Star in Netflix's Big Mistakes

Netflix's latest offering, Big Mistakes, has quickly captured the attention of audiences and critics alike, premiering on April 9, 2026. Created by Dan Levy and Rachel Sennott, this eight-episode series dives into the chaotic world of two inept siblings, Nicky and Morgan, who find themselves blackmailed into the criminal underworld. Featuring a stellar cast that includes Emmy-winner Laurie Metcalf as their mother, Linda, the show blends elements of crime comedy and family drama, making it a must-watch for fans of Levy's previous work.

Levy, known for his Emmy-winning series Schitt's Creek, stars as Nicky, a pastor grappling with a crisis of faith. His sister Morgan, played by Taylor Ortega, is a self-absorbed character whose impulsive decisions propel the plot into a whirlwind of chaotic situations. The series opens with Morgan stealing a necklace from a pawnshop as a gift for their dying grandmother, setting off a chain of events that leads them deep into organized crime.

Production primarily took place in Jersey City, New Jersey, which doubles as the fictional suburb of Glenview where the Dardano family wreaks havoc. The crew even traveled to San Juan, Puerto Rico, for episode seven, which features a dramatic cartel storyline. This choice of location enhances the show's darkly comedic tone, providing a backdrop that contrasts sharply with the characters' increasingly desperate situations.

In an exclusive interview with People, Dan Levy shared insights about the show and its inspiration. He noted that the sibling dynamics in Big Mistakes draw from his real-life relationship with his sister, Sarah Levy. "Anyone who has a sibling, I think, will recognize themselves in the show," he said. Levy expressed excitement about the project, stating, "I love these people so much. I'm so proud of this cast and crew. People are working at, like, 110%." His father, Eugene Levy, who flew in from Canada to support his son at the premiere, has also become a fan of the show, quoting lines and expressing enthusiasm for a second viewing.

The series has received an impressive 95 percent positive score on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its blend of dark family comedy and crime caper. The ensemble cast, which includes Jack Innanen, Boran Kuzum, Abby Quinn, and Elizabeth Perkins, has been highlighted for their strong performances, particularly Metcalf's portrayal of Linda. Critics have noted her ability to oscillate between authority and vulnerability, adding depth to the family dynamic.

In a review for The AV Club, Jenna Scherer remarked on the unique sensibilities of Levy and Sennott, stating, "You might think the minds behind Schitt’s Creek and Bottoms would make for strange bedfellows, but Levy and Sennott’s sensibilities combine for a captivating blend of dark family comedy, crime caper, and character study." This combination of elements is evident in the show’s narrative structure, which dives into the chaotic lives of the Dardano family, often leaving viewers breathless with its rapid pacing and unexpected twists.

As the plot thickens, Nicky and Morgan's escapades lead them to encounter a mobster named Yusuf, who demands repayment for the stolen necklace. This entanglement with the criminal underworld forces the siblings to navigate increasingly perilous situations, all under the watchful eye of their mother, who is simultaneously running for mayor. This added layer of public pressure increases the stakes, making their misadventures all the more chaotic.

Levy has described Big Mistakes as requiring "nerves of steel" to watch, a stark departure from the warm, fuzzy vibes of Schitt’s Creek. He explained, "I had six seasons of a warm, fuzzy, cuddly show, and my natural curiosity was to go in a completely different direction." This shift in tone is evident in the series' documentary-style look, which Levy intended to keep the crime tension credible and immersive. "We threw a lot of the conventional elements of TV-making out the window," he said, aiming for a raw and engaging viewing experience.

The chemistry between Levy and Ortega as siblings is a driving force of the show. Their love/hate dynamic resonates with audiences, capturing the essence of sibling relationships that many can relate to. As they navigate their chaotic lives, the series explores themes of family loyalty, personal growth, and the absurdities of their circumstances.

In a recent interview, Levy expressed his desire to continue telling these characters’ stories for multiple seasons, highlighting the special bond he feels with the cast and crew. "This is just the cherry on top of a really, really special experience," he said, indicating that there may be more chaos to come for the Dardano family.

As the audience tunes in to binge all eight episodes, Big Mistakes is already making a mark as one of Netflix's most-watched series. With its unique blend of humor, crime, and family dynamics, it promises to keep viewers entertained and engaged. As the show continues to gain momentum, fans are eager to see where the Dardano family's misadventures will lead them next.