The set of the third season of The Lincoln Lawyer left co-showrunner Dailyn Rodriguez pleasantly surprised by the number of women involved.
Rodriguez noticed that not only were women front and center in the cast, like Becki Newton and Neve Campbell, but they also held key roles behind the scenes. The writers’ room boasted names like Andi Bushell and Lisa Quintela. This was a deliberate choice by Rodriguez and her team, as they aimed to bring diverse talent into the fold, tackling the industry’s usual lack of female representation.
The series, which started in 2022, centers on Mickey Haller, a lawyer who operates from his Lincoln. However, Haller isn’t the lone ranger; strong women constantly surround him. As co-creator Ted Humphrey points out, “The show is really about a man surrounded by a bunch of strong women.”
We love when shows reflect the real world.
Changing the Scene
Humphrey emphasizes the importance of having diverse voices, especially when shaping stories. He believes it’s crucial to acknowledge the significant female viewership in television. Rodriguez adds that this inclusivity begins at the top with hiring decisions. For example, they hired a female line producer who prioritized gender-balanced hiring.
These efforts earned the show a ReFrame Stamp for gender-balanced hiring, recognizing projects committed to employing women and other underrepresented groups in major production roles. ReFrame, driven by organizations like the Sundance Institute and Women in Film, acknowledges shows that champion inclusive hiring practices.
“It was so exciting that we got acknowledged for this because we work really hard [in inclusive hiring], and not just gender,” says Rodriguez. Season 2 saw women, often women of color, taking critical roles. Editors Amy Colla and Chi-Yoon Chung and directors like Paula Garcés all contributed to the season’s success.
Challenging the Norms
The Lincoln Lawyer was among several Netflix series awarded the ReFrame Stamp, joining titles such as Blue Eye Samurai and The Witcher. Yet, ReFrame’s report highlights the continued struggle for gender parity across the industry. The latest data shows a decline in shows earning the stamp, pointing to ongoing challenges in achieving balance.
A Diverse Writing Space
Despite industry-wide hurdles, Rodriguez sees the show’s writers’ room as its strength. A mix of perspectives shapes the series’ narratives, allowing them to tackle complex topics thoughtfully. The third season’s plot about a murdered sex worker was approached with care to avoid stereotypes.
Humphrey also notes that women lead in the show’s action sequences, with Shauna Duggins as the stunt coordinator since the beginning. “We love Shauna, and she’s been around a long time,” he remarks.
Inspiring the Future
The team’s dedication to balanced hiring signifies a push for change in an industry still dominated by sameness. Rodriguez recalls moments on set where Latina women filled various roles, from directing to assistant directing. “I can’t believe this is happening right now,” she reflects.
It’s the entry-level production assistants who hold promise for a fair future. Rodriguez expresses hope in what the next generation will bring to the table.
Catch Season 3 of The Lincoln Lawyer starting Oct. 17 for the newest adventures.