Raphael Bob-Waksberg, the creator of the hit show BoJack Horseman, is back with a new animated series called Long Story Short. This show, which premiered on Netflix on August 22, 2025, is a funny and heartfelt story about a Jewish family navigating life’s ups and downs. Bob-Waksberg describes it as a celebration of “Jewish joy,” with a hope that it might even teach those with prejudiced views a thing or two about Jewish culture. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Long Story Short special, its talented cast, and why it’s a must-watch for everyone.
What Is ‘Long Story Short’ About?
Long Story Short is an animated comedy that follows the Schwooper family, a Jewish family from Northern California. The family’s unique last name comes from combining the parents’ surnames, Schwartz and Cooper. The show jumps through different time periods, from the 1990s to the 2020s, showing the family’s triumphs, challenges, and funny moments. It’s inspired by Bob-Waksberg’s own family but isn’t a direct retelling of his life. Instead, it captures the warmth, humor, and complexities of family life while proudly showcasing Jewish culture.
The series focuses on Naomi Schwartz (voiced by Lisa Edelstein) and Elliot Cooper (voiced by Paul Reiser), along with their three children: Avi (Ben Feldman), Shira (Abbi Jacobson), and Yoshi (Max Greenfield). The first episode centers on Yoshi’s Bar Mitzvah, a significant Jewish coming-of-age ceremony, setting the tone for the show’s mix of humor and heart.
Why Jewish Joy Matters
Bob-Waksberg has shared that Long Story Short is about “Jewish joy,” highlighting the beauty and richness of Jewish traditions and family life. He told Variety at the show’s premiere at Netflix’s Tudum Theater in Hollywood, “I think a lot of Jews will enjoy having a place for the Jews, and I think a lot of antisemites might learn a thing or two.” The show doesn’t shy away from its Jewish identity, weaving in cultural references like Yiddish phrases and Jewish rituals in a way that feels authentic and relatable.
Unlike many shows that might only lightly touch on cultural identity, Long Story Short leans into the specifics of Jewish life. Bob-Waksberg wanted to create a story that feels real, drawing from his own experiences growing up in a Jewish family in Northern California. The result is a show that feels both personal and universal, appealing to audiences of all backgrounds.
Meet the Talented Voice Cast
The voice cast of Long Story Short is packed with well-known actors who bring the Schwooper family to life. Here’s a quick look at the main characters and their voice actors:
| Character | Voice Actor | Notable Roles |
|---|---|---|
| Naomi Schwartz | Lisa Edelstein | House, The Kominsky Method |
| Elliot Cooper | Paul Reiser | Mad About You, Stranger Things |
| Avi Schwooper | Ben Feldman | Superstore, Mad Men |
| Shira Schwooper | Abbi Jacobson | Broad City, A League of Their Own |
| Yoshi Schwooper | Max Greenfield | New Girl, The Neighborhood |
| Shira’s Partner | Nicole Byer | Nailed It!, Grand Crew |
Additional cast members include Dave Franco, Angelique Cabral, and Michaela Dietz, adding even more star power to the series. Each actor brings their own charm to the show, with Edelstein channeling her own mother’s personality into Naomi and Greenfield drawing from his own memorable “Saturday Night Live”-themed Bar Mitzvah for Yoshi’s character.
A Diverse Writers’ Room
To ensure the show feels authentic, Bob-Waksberg assembled a diverse writers’ room that includes Black writers, queer writers, parents, Jews, and non-Jews. This mix of perspectives helps the show capture a wide range of experiences while staying true to its Jewish roots. According to Bob-Waksberg in an interview with Vulture, this diversity ensures that the characters’ stories feel real and relatable, whether it’s Shira’s journey or the family’s humorous take on Jewish traditions.
Why the Show Stands Out
Long Story Short isn’t just another animated comedy. Here’s what makes it unique:
- Time-Jumping Storytelling: The show moves back and forth through different decades, showing the Schwooper siblings as kids, adults, and everything in between. This format makes you feel like you’ve known the characters forever, even after just one season.
- Hand-Drawn Animation: Unlike the polished look of many modern animated shows, Long Story Short uses a hand-drawn style that feels warm and personal. Bob-Waksberg told The Hollywood Reporter that this choice was intentional to keep the show feeling “handmade.”
- Humor and Heart: The series balances laugh-out-loud moments with emotional depth, exploring themes like family, identity, and growing up. It’s a show that can make you laugh and cry in the same episode.
- Cultural Specificity: By focusing on Jewish culture without feeling preachy, the show offers a fresh take on family dynamics that’s both specific and universal.
Addressing Antisemitism
Sadly, Long Story Short has faced antisemitic trolling since its announcement. Cast members like Ben Feldman have spoken about the constant harassment Jewish public figures face online. “I don’t think there’s a Jew in Hollywood, a public, visible person that doesn’t get constantly harassed on Instagram all day long,” Feldman told Variety. Lisa Edelstein shared a similar experience, noting that she was trolled for posting a picture of a challah she baked.
Despite this, the cast and crew remain proud of the show’s Jewish identity. Edelstein explained that she’s learned to stop hiding from the negativity and instead let people see the reality of antisemitism. Bob-Waksberg emphasized that the show isn’t about global political issues like the Israel-Hamas conflict, which he intentionally avoided in Season 1 to focus on the family’s story. “It’s all about the complications and love of a family,” Edelstein said.
Season 2 Renewal and What’s Next
Great news for fans: Long Story Short has already been renewed for a second season, even before the first season premiered. This early renewal shows Netflix’s confidence in the show’s potential. While Season 2’s release date hasn’t been announced, the first season is available to stream now, giving viewers plenty to enjoy while they wait.
Bob-Waksberg has hinted that future episodes might explore tougher topics, but he wants to do so in a way that feels true to the show’s tone. For now, Season 1 focuses on the Schwooper family’s joys and challenges, from Yoshi’s Bar Mitzvah to everyday family moments that resonate with audiences.
Today’s News: Premiere Success
As of August 22, 2025, Long Story Short has officially launched on Netflix, and early reactions are positive. The show premiered at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in June and had its Hollywood premiere at Netflix’s Tudum Theater. Fans on X are buzzing about the show’s humor and heartfelt storytelling, with many praising its unapologetic celebration of Jewish culture. Despite some negative comments online, the show’s focus on “Jewish joy” is winning over viewers who appreciate its authenticity and warmth.
Why You Should Watch ‘Long Story Short’
Whether you’re Jewish or not, Long Story Short is a show that speaks to anyone who’s part of a family. Its mix of humor, heart, and cultural pride makes it a standout addition to Netflix’s lineup. The talented cast, unique storytelling, and Bob-Waksberg’s signature style ensure that this series is both entertaining and meaningful. Plus, with Season 2 already confirmed, now’s the perfect time to dive in.
How to Watch
Long Story Short is streaming on Netflix as of August 22, 2025. You can watch it on grok.com, x.com, the Grok iOS or Android app, or the X iOS or Android app. For the best experience, consider signing up for a SuperGrok subscription on grok.com for higher usage quotas.
Conclusion
Long Story Short is more than just an animated comedy—it’s a celebration of family, identity, and the joy of being true to who you are. Raphael Bob-Waksberg has created a show that’s both deeply personal and widely relatable, with a cast and crew that bring authenticity to every episode. Despite facing antisemitic backlash, the show stands tall as a beacon of “Jewish joy,” inviting viewers of all backgrounds to laugh, cry, and connect with the Schwooper family. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt series—stream it on Netflix today and see why it’s already earning praise.
FAQs
What is Long Story Short about?
Long Story Short is an animated comedy on Netflix about the Schwooper family, a Jewish family from Northern California. It follows their lives across different decades, focusing on their joys, challenges, and cultural identity.
Who created Long Story Short?
The show was created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg, known for BoJack Horseman. He drew inspiration from his own Jewish family but says the show isn’t fully autobiographical.
Who are the main voice actors in Long Story Short?
The voice cast includes Lisa Edelstein (Naomi), Paul Reiser (Elliot), Ben Feldman (Avi), Abbi Jacobson (Shira), Max Greenfield (Yoshi), and Nicole Byer (Shira’s partner).
Has Long Story Short been renewed for Season 2?
Yes, Netflix renewed Long Story Short for a second season before the first season premiered on August 22, 2025.
Does the show address antisemitism or global conflicts?
The show focuses on family dynamics and Jewish joy, not global issues like the Israel-Hamas conflict. However, the cast and crew have spoken about facing antisemitic trolling online.
Where can I watch Long Story Short?
You can stream Long Story Short on Netflix, grok.com, x.com, or the Grok and X mobile apps as of August 22, 2025.
Raphael Bob-Waksberg, the creator of the hit show BoJack Horseman, is back with a new animated series called Long Story Short. This show, which premiered on Netflix on August 22, 2025, is a funny and heartfelt story about a Jewish family navigating life’s ups and downs. Bob-Waksberg describes it as a celebration of “Jewish joy,” with a hope that it might even teach those with prejudiced views a thing or two about Jewish culture. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Long Story Short special, its talented cast, and why it’s a must-watch for everyone.
What Is ‘Long Story Short’ About?
Long Story Short is an animated comedy that follows the Schwooper family, a Jewish family from Northern California. The family’s unique last name comes from combining the parents’ surnames, Schwartz and Cooper. The show jumps through different time periods, from the 1990s to the 2020s, showing the family’s triumphs, challenges, and funny moments. It’s inspired by Bob-Waksberg’s own family but isn’t a direct retelling of his life. Instead, it captures the warmth, humor, and complexities of family life while proudly showcasing Jewish culture.
The series focuses on Naomi Schwartz (voiced by Lisa Edelstein) and Elliot Cooper (voiced by Paul Reiser), along with their three children: Avi (Ben Feldman), Shira (Abbi Jacobson), and Yoshi (Max Greenfield). The first episode centers on Yoshi’s Bar Mitzvah, a significant Jewish coming-of-age ceremony, setting the tone for the show’s mix of humor and heart.
Why Jewish Joy Matters
Bob-Waksberg has shared that Long Story Short is about “Jewish joy,” highlighting the beauty and richness of Jewish traditions and family life. He told Variety at the show’s premiere at Netflix’s Tudum Theater in Hollywood, “I think a lot of Jews will enjoy having a place for the Jews, and I think a lot of antisemites might learn a thing or two.” The show doesn’t shy away from its Jewish identity, weaving in cultural references like Yiddish phrases and Jewish rituals in a way that feels authentic and relatable.
Unlike many shows that might only lightly touch on cultural identity, Long Story Short leans into the specifics of Jewish life. Bob-Waksberg wanted to create a story that feels real, drawing from his own experiences growing up in a Jewish family in Northern California. The result is a show that feels both personal and universal, appealing to audiences of all backgrounds.
Meet the Talented Voice Cast
The voice cast of Long Story Short is packed with well-known actors who bring the Schwooper family to life. Here’s a quick look at the main characters and their voice actors:
| Character | Voice Actor | Notable Roles |
|---|---|---|
| Naomi Schwartz | Lisa Edelstein | House, The Kominsky Method |
| Elliot Cooper | Paul Reiser | Mad About You, Stranger Things |
| Avi Schwooper | Ben Feldman | Superstore, Mad Men |
| Shira Schwooper | Abbi Jacobson | Broad City, A League of Their Own |
| Yoshi Schwooper | Max Greenfield | New Girl, The Neighborhood |
| Shira’s Partner | Nicole Byer | Nailed It!, Grand Crew |
Additional cast members include Dave Franco, Angelique Cabral, and Michaela Dietz, adding even more star power to the series. Each actor brings their own charm to the show, with Edelstein channeling her own mother’s personality into Naomi and Greenfield drawing from his own memorable “Saturday Night Live”-themed Bar Mitzvah for Yoshi’s character.
A Diverse Writers’ Room
To ensure the show feels authentic, Bob-Waksberg assembled a diverse writers’ room that includes Black writers, queer writers, parents, Jews, and non-Jews. This mix of perspectives helps the show capture a wide range of experiences while staying true to its Jewish roots. According to Bob-Waksberg in an interview with Vulture, this diversity ensures that the characters’ stories feel real and relatable, whether it’s Shira’s journey or the family’s humorous take on Jewish traditions.
Why the Show Stands Out
Long Story Short isn’t just another animated comedy. Here’s what makes it unique:
- Time-Jumping Storytelling: The show moves back and forth through different decades, showing the Schwooper siblings as kids, adults, and everything in between. This format makes you feel like you’ve known the characters forever, even after just one season.
- Hand-Drawn Animation: Unlike the polished look of many modern animated shows, Long Story Short uses a hand-drawn style that feels warm and personal. Bob-Waksberg told The Hollywood Reporter that this choice was intentional to keep the show feeling “handmade.”
- Humor and Heart: The series balances laugh-out-loud moments with emotional depth, exploring themes like family, identity, and growing up. It’s a show that can make you laugh and cry in the same episode.
- Cultural Specificity: By focusing on Jewish culture without feeling preachy, the show offers a fresh take on family dynamics that’s both specific and universal.
Addressing Antisemitism
Sadly, Long Story Short has faced antisemitic trolling since its announcement. Cast members like Ben Feldman have spoken about the constant harassment Jewish public figures face online. “I don’t think there’s a Jew in Hollywood, a public, visible person that doesn’t get constantly harassed on Instagram all day long,” Feldman told Variety. Lisa Edelstein shared a similar experience, noting that she was trolled for posting a picture of a challah she baked.
Despite this, the cast and crew remain proud of the show’s Jewish identity. Edelstein explained that she’s learned to stop hiding from the negativity and instead let people see the reality of antisemitism. Bob-Waksberg emphasized that the show isn’t about global political issues like the Israel-Hamas conflict, which he intentionally avoided in Season 1 to focus on the family’s story. “It’s all about the complications and love of a family,” Edelstein said.
Season 2 Renewal and What’s Next
Great news for fans: Long Story Short has already been renewed for a second season, even before the first season premiered. This early renewal shows Netflix’s confidence in the show’s potential. While Season 2’s release date hasn’t been announced, the first season is available to stream now, giving viewers plenty to enjoy while they wait.
Bob-Waksberg has hinted that future episodes might explore tougher topics, but he wants to do so in a way that feels true to the show’s tone. For now, Season 1 focuses on the Schwooper family’s joys and challenges, from Yoshi’s Bar Mitzvah to everyday family moments that resonate with audiences.
Today’s News: Premiere Success
As of August 22, 2025, Long Story Short has officially launched on Netflix, and early reactions are positive. The show premiered at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in June and had its Hollywood premiere at Netflix’s Tudum Theater. Fans on X are buzzing about the show’s humor and heartfelt storytelling, with many praising its unapologetic celebration of Jewish culture. Despite some negative comments online, the show’s focus on “Jewish joy” is winning over viewers who appreciate its authenticity and warmth.
Why You Should Watch ‘Long Story Short’
Whether you’re Jewish or not, Long Story Short is a show that speaks to anyone who’s part of a family. Its mix of humor, heart, and cultural pride makes it a standout addition to Netflix’s lineup. The talented cast, unique storytelling, and Bob-Waksberg’s signature style ensure that this series is both entertaining and meaningful. Plus, with Season 2 already confirmed, now’s the perfect time to dive in.
How to Watch
Long Story Short is streaming on Netflix as of August 22, 2025. You can watch it on grok.com, x.com, the Grok iOS or Android app, or the X iOS or Android app. For the best experience, consider signing up for a SuperGrok subscription on grok.com for higher usage quotas.
Conclusion
Long Story Short is more than just an animated comedy—it’s a celebration of family, identity, and the joy of being true to who you are. Raphael Bob-Waksberg has created a show that’s both deeply personal and widely relatable, with a cast and crew that bring authenticity to every episode. Despite facing antisemitic backlash, the show stands tall as a beacon of “Jewish joy,” inviting viewers of all backgrounds to laugh, cry, and connect with the Schwooper family. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt series—stream it on Netflix today and see why it’s already earning praise.
FAQs
What is Long Story Short about?
Long Story Short is an animated comedy on Netflix about the Schwooper family, a Jewish family from Northern California. It follows their lives across different decades, focusing on their joys, challenges, and cultural identity.
Who created Long Story Short?
The show was created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg, known for BoJack Horseman. He drew inspiration from his own Jewish family but says the show isn’t fully autobiographical.
Who are the main voice actors in Long Story Short?
The voice cast includes Lisa Edelstein (Naomi), Paul Reiser (Elliot), Ben Feldman (Avi), Abbi Jacobson (Shira), Max Greenfield (Yoshi), and Nicole Byer (Shira’s partner).
Has Long Story Short been renewed for Season 2?
Yes, Netflix renewed Long Story Short for a second season before the first season premiered on August 22, 2025.
Does the show address antisemitism or global conflicts?
The show focuses on family dynamics and Jewish joy, not global issues like the Israel-Hamas conflict. However, the cast and crew have spoken about facing antisemitic trolling online.
Where can I watch Long Story Short?
You can stream Long Story Short on Netflix, grok.com, x.com, or the Grok and X mobile apps as of August 22, 2025.