Superstar and Fritz: Chapter Summary and Key Takeaways

⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.

Summary

In 1998, Molly Shannon was developing the Mary Katherine Gallagher film Superstar with writer Steve Koren while filming Never Been Kissed with Drew Barrymore. Impressed by Barrymore's team-oriented approach, Shannon also received crucial career coaching from her. When Bruce McCulloch declined to direct Superstar, Barrymore insisted Shannon call him back and ask what it would take to make the project work. Shannon took notes, followed Barrymore's advice, and prayed while staring at a candle. McCulloch agreed, later joking that he did the film because of the armpits.

George Cheeks handled Shannon's contract and ensured Brian Smyj was included for stunts. Steve Koren wrote the script, and Will played her love interest. Shannon worried about playing a Catholic high school student in her thirties, but Lorne Michaels reassured her by comparing the film to Grease. She pushed back against McCulloch's impulse toward comedic Christian material, insisting the character's faith was serious and devout. McCulloch listened and became a strong collaborator.

Her favorite scene—kissing a tree—came from a game with friends Andrew Shaifer and Carrie Aizley. Editor Malcolm Campbell assembled it perfectly, and McCulloch added a nun watching the kiss. During filming, Shannon went through a painful breakup and channeled her genuine sadness into the scene where her character asks,