For fans of the quirky sitcom “New Girl,” a revisit to the loft can stir up fond memories and intriguing behind-the-scenes secrets. The show’s unique blend of humor and heart captured audiences for years, but it wasn’t just the antics of Jess, Nick, Schmidt, Winston, and Cece that made it unforgettable. A series of delightful surprises, like legendary guest appearances and creative storylines, contributed to the charm. These lesser-known facts about “New Girl” will certainly leave fans wistful for the loft and eager to press play again.
The Unforgettable Prince Episode
The chance to feature the iconic Prince was a dream come true for “New Girl” creators. In an unexpected twist of fate, Prince himself reached out to the show. “He contacted Zooey and Hannah [Simone] directly,” executive producer Dave Baer shared with E! News in 2014, expressing his wish to appear. Originally slated for an episode titled “Virgins,” Prince opted for something else due to its racy nature. The opportunity came with the coveted post-Super Bowl slot, which Baer described as “perfect timing.”
Prince’s involvement went beyond a mere cameo. He was invested in the storyline, insisting on influencing the central romantic arc. “He’s a Nick and Jess shipper!” Baer revealed. This direct involvement from the music legend exemplifies how unique and engaging the “New Girl” experience was, capturing fans’ imaginations and keeping the loft alive in their memories.
Creative Control Fit for a Prince
Prince’s insistence on creative decisions extended to even the smallest details. As Elizabeth Meriwether recounted to Vulture, his list of requirements was extensive. “He wanted to choose the name of the non-speaking chef character, the chef’s wardrobe, the paintings on the walls, the linens in the bedroom set, his wardrobe, Zooey’s wardrobe, the music, the pancakes, the hairstyles,” she revealed. This meticulous attention to detail included a unique piece of art—a poem shaped like an egg—flown in from Minnesota for the set.
During the nighttime shoot, Prince offered another creative suggestion that showcased his flair for theatrics. Instead of using a flashlight to surprise Jess in a dark closet, he proposed flicking on a lighter under his chin. Meriwether recalled trying to maintain her composure: “‘Yeah, that’s funnier. Let’s do that.’ As if there were ever a world where doing exactly what was inside Prince’s head wasn’t one of the greatest privileges of my life.”
The presence and influence of such a cultural icon like Prince added an unforgettable layer to “New Girl,” epitomizing the magical blend of reality and television that took place in the beloved loft. These moments remind fans why the series holds a special place in their hearts, offering both laughter and nostalgia long after the closing credits.
