While Daniel Ricciardo is pulling out all the stops to survive in Formula 1, the popular Australian has taken on a new role in the entertainment world. He has become an executive producer for a new comedy series on Hulu, titled ‘Downforce’.
Daniel Ricciardo will share his racing expertise for the streaming service’s series. ‘Downforce’, created by renowned American screenwriters and TV producers Alec Berg and Adam Countee, delves into the fast-paced world of Formula 1 with a humorous twist.
Formula 1 Drivers in the Film and Television World
Ricciardo’s foray into Hollywood fits the trend of Formula 1 drivers entering the film and television world. The Australian follows in the footsteps of Lewis Hamilton, who is already an executive producer for an untitled film starring Brad Pitt and Damson Idris. This trend underscores the drivers’ desire to authentically convey the essence of motorsport to a broad audience.
The Importance of Authenticity in Racing Films
In a recent interview with GQ Magazine, Hamilton emphasized the importance of authenticity in racing films, aimed at both the ‘old original fans’ and the new generation introduced to the sport through Netflix’s ‘Drive to Survive’. “My job was to point out the nonsense,” said Hamilton. He provided advice to make the film as truthful as possible, taking into account what attracts racing enthusiasts and what does not.
Ricciardo’s Challenges on the Track
Despite his new role in the entertainment industry, Ricciardo also has some challenges on the track. After his impressive fourth place in the sprint race of the Miami GP last week, the disappointing fifteenth place in the main event (and the seventh place of teammate Yuki Tsunoda) indicates that there is plenty of work to be done for the 34-year-old veteran. Ricciardo cannot (yet) fully immerse himself in his new Hollywood career without worrying about his future in Formula 1.
