Harriet Dyer Brings Humor to the DMV Experience
In a unique blend of humor and reality, Harriet Dyer captures the essence of the often-mundane DMV experience in her new role. The Australian actress stars as Colette in the new CBS workplace comedy, “DMV,” which premieres on Monday. Set in a fictional East Hollywood location, the show depicts the daily grind of DMV workers interacting with the public.
Harriet Dyer: A Fresh Take on DMV Life
Dyer, a seasoned performer known for her roles in Australian series such as “Love Child” and “No Activity,” brings charm to her character, Colette. With five years of experience at the DMV, Colette is depicted as a cheerful driving examiner who relishes the variety of daily interactions with first-time drivers.
“She doesn’t think it sucks,” Dyer remarks about her character. “She loves trying to get people their independence through driving.” Her optimistic outlook as a “breath of fresh air” sets the tone for her portrayal in the series.
Creatively Inspired by Personal Experience
The show’s creator, Dana Klein, draws from personal experiences, particularly her challenges as a parent with teenage children eager to obtain their licenses. Inspired in part by a short story titled “Chicken-Flavored and Lemon-Scented” by Katherine Heiny, the series highlights the lives of DMV employees who navigate their jobs amid the stereotypes associated with the department.
Klein praises Dyer as the ideal choice for Colette due to her “fearless” and “lovable” persona. Tim Meadows, Dyer’s co-star, underscores her skill in combining physical comedy with emotional depth. “She knows how to take it down and find the humanity,” he states.
Behind the Scenes of “DMV”
Dyer’s journey to this role comes amid a mix of triumphs and challenges. After moving to Los Angeles in 2017, she faced moments of uncertainty and boredom as her husband worked on the adaptation of his series. With the support of her husband, Dyer wrote her own series, “Colin From Accounts,” which gained popularity both in Australia and the United States.
Her adaptability shines through as she balances work on “DMV” while also contributing to the third season of “Colin from Accounts,” set for production in January. Dyer values the collaborative spirit of “DMV,” preferring to focus solely on acting, saying, “I like being a cog instead of the whole wheel.”
Connecting with the Audience
As Dyer engages with her character’s quirks, she also reflects on her own experiences, including her initial fears while learning to drive. “I was shook at how big the blind spot was,” she recalls, illustrating her relatable nature. As she navigates the comedic nuances of both driving and the DMV, Dyer’s performance resonates with audiences familiar with the frustrations that come with bureaucracy.
Through “DMV,” Harriet Dyer not only showcases her comedic talents but also redefines the perception of the DMV experience. Her character’s journey invites viewers to find humor in the ordinary, proving that even the most mundane settings can provide a backdrop for authenticity and joy.
