The Righteous Gemstones

About The Righteous Gemstones

The Righteous Gemstones is a dark comedy series that premiered in 2019 on HBO. Created by Danny McBride, the series follows a powerful and incredibly dysfunctional family of televangelists that has built up a massive evangelical empire over generations. The plot chronicles the world of the greedy and manipulative Gemstone family, using much satire to showcase the hypocrisy and corruption present in their lives, veiled by their religious influence and wealth. It includes both individual and group dynamics within the family, and their interaction with those outside of it. The Gemstones' ride through greed, charitable work, rivalry and redemption leaves room for much audience speculation on the piety and morality presented within the series.

Making / Production

The Righteous Gemstones, which was created, written, directed and executive produced by Danny McBride, is a product of his Rough House Pictures alongside collaborators Jody Hill and David Gordon Green. The series was filmed in and around Charleston, South Carolina. The production utilizes large church settings and extravagant homes to portray the wealth and influence of the Gemstones.

Actors

• Danny McBride as Jesse Gemstone: The eldest son and main preacher of the Gemstone family, he has difficulty managing his personal and professional life.
• John Goodman as Eli Gemstone: The patriarch of the Gemstone family, he struggles with his faith and family following the death of his wife.
• Edi Patterson as Judy Gemstone: The only daughter in the Gemstone family, she strives to break through the male-dominated family business.
• Adam DeVine as Kelvin Gemstone: The youngest Gemstone brother, who's known for his youth-oriented ministry and unconventional methods.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series was renewed for a second season just two weeks after its premiere.
• John Goodman's character, Eli Gemstone, is based on a blend of several notable televangelists.
• Danny McBride and Adam DeVine had previously worked together on the animated series 'Chozen'.

Quotes

• "If you let the fly stay in the ointment, the whole barrel of ointment goes bad.” - Eli Gemstone
• "Our ministry does not duplicate services, we enhance them.” - Jesse Gemstone
• "I speak in the tongues of angels man, it's not supposed to make sense.” - Kelvin Gemstone

Music and Soundtrack

• "Misbehavin'" sung by Jennifer Nettles and Walton Goggins is a memorable song from the series.
• The soundtrack, curated by Joseph Stephens, includes a blend of hymnals, rock songs and satirical tunes to aid the series' dark comedy ethos.
• The Righteous Gemstones' original score is composed by Joseph Stephens.