Interview with Entourage Creator Doug Ellin: New Thierry Henry Show, Favourite Cameo + More

Doug Ellin is the creator, writer and, on occasion, director for the highly acclaimed HBO series and movie, Entourage. He’s recently turned his attention to his new podcast, together with Entourage cast members Kevin Dillon and Kevin Connolly, titled Victory The Podcast. The podcast dives into individual episodes of the award winning series, inviting guests who’ve appeared throughout the 96 episodes and feature film.

You’ve just launched ‘Victory the Podcast’ together with Kevin Dillon and sometimes Kevin Connolly. You’re already 19 episodes in within just a few months. How has the podcasting experience been so far?  

It’s really been amazing. Had no idea what to expect since I have never done anything like this, but it has been incredibly fun. I have been very close with these guys for 20 years, so reminiscing about our friendships, careers, and of course on Entourage has been great. I never really looked back and watched the show, so it’s fun to see it when I no longer have to put any effort and anxiety towards it.

Are there any upcoming guests or topics that fans can look out for?

I hope that each episode ultimately feels like just an hour or so with friends. I’d like not to have to rely on guests or specific topics, but just having fun conversations. That being said, we have Emanuelle Chriqui coming back, Janet Montgomery, Bob Saget and Jordan Belfort, ‘the Wolf of Wall Street’ soon.

Would you ever give your blessing for an Entourage reboot in the future?

As long as I didn’t have to write it and somebody paid me something.

Barack Obama stated that Entourage was one of his favourite shows – there was also talk of a cameo. Was this the one that ‘got away’?

What got away was a screening we were supposed to have at the White House. That really was going to happen, but something more important came up. For the President. Not for us. I don’t think getting the President on the show was ever a realistic possibility.

Do you have a favourite cameo or Easter egg?

Having Bono say: ‘Happy Birthday’ to Johnny Drama on my actual birthday, during a U2 concert was pretty special.

One question that has been on the minds of fans of the show – was there really anything ever between Sloan and Seth Green?
In my mind no. Seth might feel differently.

You’ve mentioned previously that the best writers are going to TV – what have you been watching recently?

TV shows I’ve watched during quarantine:

  • Cobra Kai
  • The Handmaid’s Tale
  • Watchmen
  • Fleabag
  • Schitt’s Creek
    Lots of classic old shows such as
  • Cheers
  • Taxi
  • The Mary Tyler Moore Show
  • All in the Family
  • and of course Love Island Australia

There have been reports that you’re working on an Entourage-esque show based on Thierry Henry – could you tell us more about this? How did it come about?

I have known Thierry for many years as well as his manager. We have talked about the fascinating relationships and dramas that go on in the world of international football.  The show will not be focused on the actual football playing (though there will be some), but more on the family and friendship dynamics. I’m very excited about it, so hopefully coming soon.

Was there a learning curve when it came to Football (Soccer) and all that it entails?

Yes, but having Thierry and his manager Darren Dein, I was fortunate to have two experts. It’s been really fun and enlightening getting into that world and can’t wait to explore it further.


Dive into the latest episode of Victory The Podcast below and make sure to watch Entourage if you haven’t!

FEATURED