Scott Foley Explores Grief and New Beginnings in ‘It’s Not Like That’ Amid ‘Will Trent’ Return

Veteran actor Scott Foley, celebrated for his memorable roles in beloved series like “Felicity” and “Scandal,” is making a significant return to television with a compelling new drama, “It’s Not Like That,” set to premiere on January 25. Simultaneously, Foley is reprising his role for the highly anticipated new season of “Will Trent.” This dual engagement marks a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing his versatility and commitment to emotionally resonant storytelling, particularly with the debut of “It’s Not Like That,” a series that delves deeply into themes of grief, unexpected connections, and the complex journey toward new beginnings.

“It’s Not Like That”: A Poignant Exploration of Loss and New Beginnings

“It’s Not Like That” introduces audiences to a narrative steeped in raw emotion and human resilience. Scott Foley stars as Pastor Malcolm Jeffries, a man grappling with the profound loss of his wife, who was also the best friend of Lori Soto, played by Erinn Hayes. As Malcolm navigates his grief, Lori faces her own personal turmoil, navigating a divorce. Amidst these individual struggles, the two friends unexpectedly find solace and connection in each other, forming the emotional core of the series.

The show, which will be available on Wonder Project via Prime Video, promises a nuanced exploration of how individuals and families adjust to altered realities after significant life changes. The creators, Ian Deitchman and Kristin Robinson, have crafted a story that resonates with authenticity, drawing from both personal experiences and a shared passion for narratives that depict the intricate dance between pain and laughter. Their vision for “It’s Not Like That” is to present a story where second chances are not just possibilities, but hard-won journeys of self-discovery and relational evolution.

Behind the Scenes: Creators’ Vision and Personal Inspirations

Ian Deitchman and Kristin Robinson bring a wealth of experience and a deeply personal touch to “It’s Not Like That.” Their previous collaboration on the NBC drama “Ordinary Joe” significantly influenced their storytelling approach, emphasizing the ripple effects of individual choices on families and fostering profound character development. Deitchman revealed that the inspiration for “It’s Not Like That” stems directly from real-life experiences, including the shocking loss of a mutual college friend to cancer and the subsequent challenges faced by the bereaved families. This personal connection imbues the series with a profound sense of realism and emotional depth.

A poignant example of this blend of humor and gravity, directly inspired by Deitchman’s own life, appears in the pilot when Lori hands Malcolm an iPad, encouraging him to consider dating again. This moment, designed to elicit both a chuckle and a pang of empathy, is indicative of the show’s overall tone. Robinson further elaborated on how “Ordinary Joe” taught them invaluable lessons in navigating the complexities of production and post-production, knowledge they meticulously applied to their new project. Their shared passion for family-centric narratives often leads them to explore non-traditional familial bonds, showcasing the inherent messiness and beauty of relationships where pain and laughter frequently coexist.

The creators are particularly drawn to romantic comedies and dramas that achieve a delicate balance between heartwarming moments and poignant storytelling. This preference is evident in “It’s Not Like That,” which seeks to provide audiences with both comfort and challenging emotional truths. The depth of characterization is a standout feature, with every role, regardless of its proximity to the central storyline, feeling fully developed and vital. Robinson acknowledged the demanding task of crafting narratives for multiple characters, underscoring that relationships are the true heart of the series. Each character, especially the children, experiences grief in unique and authentic ways, allowing for a multifaceted exploration of various perspectives within the broader narrative.

Deitchman reflected on their approach to writing for younger characters, emphasizing the importance of treating them as multi-dimensional individuals rather than mere plot devices. The casting process for these roles was particularly nerve-wracking, given the emotionally demanding scenes written for the children. However, they were fortunate to find young actors who were not only eager but also exceptionally prepared to embody their roles, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment on set. This meticulous attention to detail in character development and casting ensures that the series offers a rich tapestry of human experience.

Scott Foley’s Enduring Presence on Television

Scott Foley’s career has been marked by a consistent presence in compelling television dramas. From his breakout role as Noel Crane in the late 90s hit “Felicity” to his more recent, intense portrayal of Jake Ballard in “Scandal,” Foley has demonstrated a remarkable ability to inhabit complex characters across diverse genres. His return to a new season of “Will Trent” further cements his status as a sought-after talent, capable of delivering nuanced performances that resonate with audiences. This ongoing role in a critically acclaimed series, combined with the launch of “It’s Not Like That,” highlights his enduring appeal and his strategic choice of projects that offer both commercial viability and artistic depth.

The themes explored in “It’s Not Like That” – particularly those of grief, healing, and the unexpected paths relationships take – align with a growing demand for television content that addresses profound human experiences with sensitivity and realism. Foley’s casting as Pastor Malcolm Jeffries is particularly intriguing, as it allows him to explore a character defined by both faith and profound personal loss, a departure from some of his more action-oriented or politically charged past roles. This new role provides an opportunity for Foley to showcase a different facet of his acting range, bringing a quiet strength and vulnerability to a character navigating immense emotional complexity. His established ability to convey sincerity and emotional depth will undoubtedly be central to the show’s success.

As “It’s Not Like That” prepares for its January 25 premiere, the anticipation among fans of character-driven dramas and Scott Foley’s extensive body of work is palpable. The series promises to be an engaging exploration of love, loss, and the intricate ways relationships evolve in the face of adversity, poised to resonate deeply with audiences. The creators, Deitchman and Robinson, have already identified standout moments, such as a scene between Malcolm and Lori in a car that remained largely unchanged from the pilot draft, and an insightful question from Malcolm’s youngest son in the pilot, underscoring the emotional authenticity they aimed to capture. This strategic move by Foley to embrace projects that delve into the human condition with such depth, alongside his return to an established series, demonstrates a conscious evolution in his career, prioritizing roles that offer significant narrative and emotional substance.