From Reality TV to Netflix: The Comedy Evolution of Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo

The landscape of reality television is witnessing a significant shift as stars leverage their digital followings and podcast success into scripted entertainment. Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo, best known for their tenure on Bravo’s Summer House, are the latest figures to transition from unscripted drama to the world of premium scripted comedy.

A Strategic Move to Netflix

Netflix has officially greenlit a half-hour scripted comedy series featuring Berner and DeSorbo. The project, which was secured by the streamer in a competitive situation, highlights the growing influence of podcasting—specifically their popular show, Giggly Squad—in television development. The series will feature the pair as fictionalized versions of themselves, navigating life in New York City as they support each other through personal growth and the shedding of past baggage.

The production boasts significant industry backing. The series is produced by Amy Poehler, known for her work on Parks and Recreation and SNL, through her Paper Kite Productions. Kay Cannon, the creative force behind Pitch Perfect and 30 Rock, is attached as co-writer and showrunner. Universal Television serves as the studio for the project, with Berner and DeSorbo also serving as executive producers alongside Poehler, Cannon, and Kim Lessing.

Building a Multi-Platform Career

The transition to scripted television is the latest milestone in a career trajectory that began long before their Netflix deal. Berner and DeSorbo first met while working at the same company in New York before joining the cast of Summer House for its third season.

Since their time on the reality series, both have diversified their professional portfolios:

• Hannah Berner: Following her departure from Summer House after its fifth season, Berner focused on establishing a career in stand-up comedy.
• Paige DeSorbo: After departing Summer House following the ninth season, DeSorbo shifted her focus toward her work as a fashion influencer and entrepreneur, including the launch of her Daphne sleepwear line.
• Collaborative Success: The duo’s podcast, Giggly Squad, continues to be a major pillar of their brand, recently receiving the Podcast of the Year award at the 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards.

Beyond their own project, the duo has been actively expanding their footprint in the acting space, with roles in upcoming projects such as Mindy Kaling’s Hulu comedy series, Not Suitable For Work.

Key Takeaways

• Scripted Transition: Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo are moving from reality television to a scripted Netflix comedy series.
• Industry Powerhouses: The show is backed by Amy Poehler’s Paper Kite Productions and helmed by showrunner Kay Cannon.
• Cross-Media Growth: The project builds upon the success of their award-winning Giggly Squad podcast and their individual ventures in stand-up and fashion.

Looking Ahead

The move by Netflix to develop a series centered on Berner and DeSorbo signals a clear trend in the streaming wars: the prioritization of established, high-engagement personalities who bring built-in audiences. As the project moves into production, all eyes will be on how the duo translates their signature chemistry from the podcast booth and reality sets into a scripted, half-hour format. With seasoned veterans like Poehler and Cannon guiding the creative direction, the series is positioned as a notable entry in the upcoming streaming comedy slate.