David Kaplan How To Make It In America

David Kaplan and “How To Make It In America”: A Deep Dive

When the phrase “How To Make It In America” appears online, many fans immediately think of the gritty HBO series that chronicled the rise of two ambitious friends in New York City. Less often discussed, however, is the pivotal role of David Kaplan—the show’s executive producer and co‑creator—who helped shape its tone, narrative structure, and cultural relevance. This article explores Kaplan’s contributions, the series’ legacy, and how viewers can revisit the show today.

The Genesis of the Series

“How To Make It In America” was conceived in the early 2010s as a response to the growing appetite for stories about entrepreneurship and street‑level hustle. Kaplan, alongside creators Ben and Cam, envisioned a drama that blended realistic dialogue with aspirational storytelling. In interviews, Kaplan explained that the series aimed to answer the question, “How exactly do you make it?” by following two protagonists as they navigated the fashion and music scenes of Manhattan.

David Kaplan’s Creative Vision

Kaplan’s influence can be seen in three core areas:

Character‑Driven Narrative: Kaplan insisted on deep character arcs, ensuring that each episode revealed personal stakes beyond the business ambitions.
Authentic Setting: By scouting real locations across Brooklyn and Manhattan, Kaplan helped ground the series in the everyday reality of New York’s creative districts.
Music Integration: The series featured a curated soundtrack that included emerging artists, a decision Kaplan championed to reflect the city’s evolving soundscape.