Jennie Snyder Urman, the creative mind behind the popular CBS drama “Matlock,” has a unique approach to coming up with storylines for the show. While the writers’ room is where the magic happens, Urman finds inspiration for the most creative twists and turns during her daily walks.
Urman’s daily routine includes walking to work, walking during lunch, and walking home from work. She confesses that she has never proofread a script or outline without being on the move. With stacks of scripts in hand, she navigates the streets of Los Angeles, brainstorming ideas and solving plot problems on the go.
Surprisingly, Urman admits that she often runs into obstacles while walking and writing at the same time. As an introvert masquerading as an extrovert, she finds solace in the quiet moments of her walks, allowing her to recharge and focus on the challenges ahead.
The walking routine is not just a creative outlet for Urman; it’s a necessity for her well-being. She emphasizes the importance of efficiency in her job as a showrunner and the need to decompress before transitioning back to her role as a mother. By having her office within walking distance from her home, she eliminates the time wasted on commuting and maximizes her time with family.
Urman’s walking sessions are not always solitary; she often invites writers to join her, preferring to hold meetings while on the move. She even frequents the Paramount lot for walks, where she has been spotted by actress Kathy Bates capturing stills of her in action.
Whether she’s listening to music or talking out loud to herself, Urman uses her walks to proofread scripts, solve problems, and come up with big ideas. She insists on having a physical copy of the script to write notes on, constantly revising and perfecting it with each walk.
In the end, Urman’s dedication to her craft shines through in her commitment to walking as a source of inspiration. As she continues to shape the world of “Matlock” with her creative storytelling, her daily walks serve as a reminder of the importance of finding moments of clarity and creativity in the midst of a hectic schedule.
