15 Heartwarming Facts from ‘This Is Us’
For six unforgettable seasons, “This Is Us” captured our hearts with touching storylines and complex characters. The show’s unique ability to weave past and present kept viewers glued to their screens week after week. Let’s explore 15 fascinating tidbits about this beloved series.
The Pearson Triplets’ Birthday Twist
In the pilot, we learn that Kate and Kevin were born on their dad Jack’s 36th birthday. But here’s a twist—Randall wasn’t. He was born at a different hospital and brought to the same one where Rebecca gave birth.
Milo Ventimiglia’s Unexpected Casting
It’s hard to imagine anyone else as Jack, but Milo Ventimiglia wasn’t the first choice. The creators originally wanted someone older, but luckily for Ventimiglia, his audition was so powerful that they changed their minds.
The Big Three Chant’s Personal Touch
The Pearson siblings’ “Big Three” chant wasn’t just clever writing. Show creator Dan Fogelman drew inspiration from his own childhood. This was based on a real-life chant he shared with his siblings.
Mandy Moore’s Time-Traveling Transformation
Portraying Rebecca across decades was no small feat for Mandy Moore. She often spent up to five hours in the makeup chair for scenes featuring an older Rebecca. Her commitment to the role brings depth to the character at every stage of life.
Sterling K. Brown’s Groundbreaking Emmy Win
When Sterling K. Brown won an Emmy for his portrayal of Randall, he broke new ground. He won the award in 2017—the first Black actor to win since 1998. Like Randall Pearson, Brown won over both fans and critics with his acting.
Tackling Tough Topics with Grace
“This Is Us” didn’t shy away from difficult conversations you will typically not see. The show addressed real-world issues such as injustice, adoption, addiction, and many others with sensitivity. This approach allowed viewers to relate to their own struggles.
Justin Hartley’s Hands-On Approach
Justin Hartley’s commitment to Kevin went beyond memorizing lines. He performed many of his own stunts for Kevin’s acting gigs, including a nail-biting scene hanging from a ledge.
A Century-Spanning Narrative
While the Pearsons’ story anchors the show, “This Is Us” actually spans events from the 1940s to the 2050s. This ambitious timeline allowed the writers to explore how choices and events ripple through generations and added depth to each character’s arc.
Chrissy Metz’s Unique Contract Clause
When Chrissy Metz joined “This Is Us” as Kate, her contract included a weight loss agreement that matched her character’s journey. But here’s what made the show special: the creators always stressed that they chose Metz for her incredible acting skills, not her size.
Authentic Portrayal of Vietnam
To tell Jack’s Vietnam story honestly, the show brought in an expert who lived it. Tim O’Brien, a Vietnam veteran turned writer, helped shape these scenes. Thanks to his guidance, the show captured the real experience of those who served.
On-Screen Family, Off-Screen Friends
The Pearsons felt like a real family because, in many ways, they became one. Off camera, the cast formed genuine friendships and mostly spent time together between takes. This real-life connection translated into heartfelt performances.
Long-Term Storytelling at Its Finest
Some TV shows make it up as they go, but “This Is Us” had key moments planned from the start. Take Jack’s passing, for example. The writers knew exactly how it would happen early on, which allowed them to plant subtle hints.
Inspiring Real-World Change
Sometimes, TV shows do more than entertain as they inspire action. That’s what happened when viewers saw Randall’s adoption story. Many people watching at home started thinking about the subject of adoption.
Hidden Meanings in Episode Titles
Look closely at each episode title, and you’ll find a story within the story. Some titles spell out exactly what’s coming, while others hide clever hints that fans can piece together. These small touches made watching even more fun.
A Finale Years in the Making
The show’s final episode wasn’t a last-minute creation. Parts of it were written and even filmed years before the series concluded. This forward-thinking approach ensured a cohesive and emotionally satisfying end to the Pearson family’s journey.
