Dan Levy almost left Hollywood to open a hotel in Italy

In this episode of Q with Tom Power, Dan Levy opens up about the emotional and creative challenges of following up the monumental success of Schitt's Creek with his new Netflix series, Big Mistakes. Levy reveals how his fear of being trapped—both physically and socially—inspired the show's central premise of siblings ensnared in organized crime. He shares candid stories from his past, including being dropped off at a Gap Kids store by his parents to get a job, and his early days as a VJ at MTV, where he spent his audition money on a cable bill. The conversation delves into his complex relationship with fame, his father Eugene Levy, and the profound influence of Catherine O'Hara, whose comedic philosophy of 'never punching down' shaped his own work. Levy also discusses his near-exit from Hollywood to open a hotel in Italy, highlighting the emotional toll of creative block and the importance of humility, reconfiguration, and vulnerability in the creative process. Ultimately, he found renewed purpose by admitting failure, bringing in drama writers, and embracing a new creative mindset. Levy emphasizes that creativity is not a linear path and that success does not insulate one from doubt or stagnation. He reflects on the value of hard work, earning one’s keep, and the joy of personal achievement—lessons instilled by his parents. The episode closes with a heartfelt tribute to Catherine O'Hara, whose laugh and legacy remain deeply cherished. Through honesty about struggle, failure, and reinvention, Levy offers a powerful message: true creative fulfillment comes not from perfection, but from the courage to start again.