‘The United States of Tara’ is a Masterpiece Produced By Steven Spielberg

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Excited to see Steven Spielberg’s new sci-fi movie, Disclosure Day, in theaters this summer? If you’re a fan of his work, you might also enjoy a lesser-known TV series he produced years ago.

Steven Spielberg was an executive producer on several large-scale TV projects, including the miniseries Masters of the Air, The Pacific, and Band of Brothers. He also worked on shorter-running shows like Terra Nova, The Whispers, and Red Band Society. Beyond stories of war, dinosaurs, and the supernatural, he also executive produced The United States of Tara, a three-season Showtime drama featuring a fantastic performance by a popular actor.

‘The United States of Tara’ Is One of the Best TV Shows Steven Spielberg Produced

The Showtime series The United States of Tara ran for three seasons, from 2009 to 2011, and featured Toni Collette as Tara Gregson, a woman with multiple personalities. While she has many different identities, three were most prominent: Buck, a Vietnam veteran; Alice, a wife and mother; and T, a teenager.

Although some viewers questioned how The United States of Tara depicted dissociative identity disorder, the show handles Tara’s personal journey with sensitivity. It’s easy to connect with her difficulties and root for her. Actress Toni Collette delivers a phenomenal performance, and has continued to impress in other TV roles, such as her portrayal of the intriguing Evelyn Wade in the Netflix thriller Wayward.

At its heart, the show is about the deep love Tara’s family has for her, and it also explores the difficult experiences she’s gone through. Tara’s husband, Max (John Corbett), and her children, Marshall (Keir Gilchrist) and Kate (Brie Larson), are all incredibly supportive and kind. It’s particularly heartwarming to see how much Max stands by her. While the series deals with some tough subjects and can be emotionally challenging, it ultimately leaves you feeling optimistic and encouraged. The family isn’t without flaws, but they face everything together. Rosemarie DeWitt is also fantastic as Tara’s sister, Charmaine – a complex character who offers support while being honest about her own struggles, which adds to the story’s authenticity.

Diablo Cody, known for writing the films Juno, Young Adult, and Tully, also created the compelling series The United States of Tara and wrote several of its episodes. While many know her movies, her TV work is equally insightful. Tully, for example, offers a moving look at motherhood and mental health. The United States of Tara continues Cody’s exploration of complex themes, focusing on growing up, family dynamics, and the challenges and rewards of long-term relationships and supporting loved ones through difficult times.

Toni Collette recently mentioned on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen that she’d be thrilled to reprise her role as Tara. It’s easy to see why – the part was one of her most acclaimed, earning her an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2009. Plus, it’s fitting that Steven Spielberg was an executive producer, given his history of directing heartwarming family stories with positive themes of love and friendship.

‘The United States of Tara’ Was Canceled After Three Seasons

It’s disappointing that Showtime ended The United States of Tara after just three seasons. The show was strong creatively, with compelling stories, great performances, and memorable writing, and it felt like it had more to offer.

In a May 2011 interview with Vulture, Diablo Cody discussed the show’s conclusion and her experiences collaborating with Steven Spielberg, stating:

He’s truly dedicated to every project he takes on, going far beyond just lending his name. He poured his heart and ideas into working with Tara, and I feel incredibly lucky to have been a part of it. It’s an experience I’ll never forget – honestly, the highlight of my career.

Cody also highly commended Toni Collette’s performance, calling it the best of her career. He said being involved in the project with her was a true honor, and while it might sound predictable, he meant it sincerely.

It’s disappointing when a good TV show gets canceled before its time. The third season finale of The United States of Tara showed Tara making real progress, and it would have been great to see where her story went next. It’s easy to become invested in Tara and her family, and while the ending is satisfying, you’re left wishing there had been more to the story.

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2026-04-18 21:49