Jury Duty Presents Star Opens Up on 'Constant Pressure' Behind the Scenes
The star of Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat, who previously appeared in Disney+'s Paradise, has spoken exclusively about the unique challenges and relentless pressure experienced during filming for the Prime Video series.
Unique Filming Process and Cast Insights
Jerry Hauck, an actor with credits including an episode of the beloved sitcom Seinfeld, is featuring in this innovative series. According to its synopsis, Company Retreat captures a corporate offsite event at a family-owned hot sauce company from the perspective of Anthony, a recently hired temporary worker. Unbeknownst to Anthony, the entire experience is staged, with all his new colleagues performing scripted roles in every moment, from conference rooms to downtime.
The getaway transforms into a clash between big corporate ambitions and small business values as the founder prepares to step down, with control of the company hanging in the balance. The first three episodes are available now, with the rest of the season released over the next two Fridays.
Cast Members Reflect on the Experience
In an exclusive chat, cast members shared how filming Company Retreat, which required staying in character almost constantly, differed from other major comedy shows. Emily Pendergast, who appeared in Veep, said: "I think it's so different. I don't think we'll ever do a job like this again. We are all so lucky to be a part of this show and Jury Duty Season One just set the bar very high - incredible."
She added: "This was such a unique experience, and I'm really thankful that I have my co-stars with me. We've got to do it together, and I love improv so much. The writers created such an impressive road map for all of us to follow. Nick and Jake, the producer and director, would always say, just get through the day. It was a trusting process in every single department, with everyone having to be unconditionally trusting of each other."
Jerry Hauck on the Pressure and Contrast with Paradise
Her co-star Jerry, who plays the CEO of the fake business, highlighted the show's uniqueness when he compared it to his role in Paradise Season 2. He agreed with Emily and noted: "And at the same time, there's no blooper reel. Everything we would have to go and do it. There were certain rules in the sense that you didn't have to always get that joke and do the bit to hit that beat. If it wasn't happening, we were told don't worry about it, we'll get it."
He elaborated on the contrast: "The funny thing is I did Paradise Season 2 after this show. After doing this show where it's so 'My God, what am I doing?' The pressure is endless. I do Paradise and the director says stand there and say your lines - I'm like 'what? You want me to just stand there and say the lines? Oh, I can handle that.' So the constant pressure of doing this show was bearable, but the danger level was always there."
Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat is currently streaming on Prime Video, offering viewers a behind-the-scenes look at this high-stakes, scripted corporate drama.
