Local mind behind hit show on Disney Channel
By: Sarah Haughey
Special to The Examiner
July 29, 2010
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Drew Vaupen
(DISNEY CHANNEL)
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San Francisco native and UC Berkeley graduate Drew Vaupen co-created Disney Channel’s hit family sitcom “Good Luck Charlie,” which debuted April 4 and is now cable’s No. 1 series among kids and tweens. A new episode, “Teddy’s Little Helper,” will air at 8:30 p.m. Sunday.
What was your inspiration for “Good Luck Charlie?” The pitch came from the Disney Network, originally called “Oops,” a story about a surprise baby. I’m a young father so, while neither of my kids were accidental, I’m going through the same thing. “Good Luck Charlie” is the story of an average family of three teens coping with the onset of a surprise child.
Why do you think the show has been such a hit? The show fills the current void of family sitcoms. The show follows Disney’s trusted product of wholesome, family, funny and smart entertainment. We have a great writing staff and a fresh, extremely talented cast; it’s been pretty smooth sailing.
Do you get ideas from your own two kids? I’m constantly getting ideas from them. The pilot of the show came directly from my son, now age 10. One night, after a bedtime story he suddenly asked, “Dad, can the average human lick his armpit?” So I lift my arm to lick my armpit. I asked him if it was a homework assignment and he said, “No, I just wanted to see if I could get you to do it!” —
