From Vanity Fair · Joy Press · · 2m
Ryan Murphy's Institutional Rise
Ryan Murphy transforms from Hollywood outsider to cultural institution with Netflix and Disney deals.
In brief
Ryan Murphy transforms from Hollywood outsider to cultural institution with Netflix and Disney deals. Ryan Murphy has become a dominant force in Hollywood after transitioning from FX to Netflix and Disney, creating multiple high-profile shows while maintaining his focus on marginalized narratives. Originally reported…
Ryan Murphy's Hollywood Empire
Ryan Murphy has multiple shows in production across Netflix, Disney, and FX including Love Story, The Beauty, and The Shards.
From Outsider to Institution
Murphy describes moving from being an underdog to an institutional figure in Hollywood after years of marginalization.
Risk-Taking Creator
Murphy focuses on marginalized narratives and has produced shows like Glee and American Horror Story despite critical backlash.
Cultural Impact
Murphy's work has influenced generations of viewers, with young audiences connecting to his shows through shared cultural references.
The Shards Project
Murphy adapted Bret Easton Ellis's The Shards, a book about high school experiences during the AIDS crisis.
Critics vs. Audience
Murphy's show All's Fair received negative reviews but returned with a large audience after critical backlash.
Influence on Young Viewers
Young viewers cite Murphy's shows as key to their identity, with Glee helping some come out of the closet.
The Factory Analogy
Murphy compares his creative process to Andy Warhol's Factory, supporting others who want to make unconventional projects.
Bret Easton Ellis Connection
Murphy and Bret Easton Ellis share a similar trajectory as young outsiders who became influential despite criticism.
Lizzie Borden Connection
Murphy's childhood singing of the Lizzie Borden nursery rhyme inspired his upcoming vampire show Brides of Blood.
Future Projects
Murphy is developing a vampire tale called Brides of Blood to honor his grandmother's love for musicals and Dracula.
Cultural Legacy
Murphy's work reflects American culture's struggles with marginalized groups and has become a part of mainstream identity.
The Institutional Shift
Murphy has shifted from being an outsider to an influential figure in Hollywood, creating multiple shows across major studios.
Critical Reception
Murphy's work has faced criticism but has consistently found an audience that values his unique perspective.
The Shards' Significance
The Shards explores the impact of the AIDS crisis on young people, with Murphy working with a cast 40 years younger than him.
Next Steps
Murphy is preparing to release Brides of Blood, a vampire story honoring his grandmother and his love for musicals and Dracula.
What it means
Ryan Murphy has become a dominant force in Hollywood after transitioning from FX to Netflix and Disney, creating multiple high-profile shows while maintaining his focus on marginalized narratives.
