Although there were numerous characters in the opening credits, Riki Lindhome and Natasha Leggero were the only cast members of the show during season one. Everyone else had contractual agreements to shoot other shows, and as a consequence, much of the first season was shot out of sequence to accommodate such busy schedules.
Four different actresses have played the role of Hortense Bellacourt. Artemis Pebdani (first two episodes of season one), Lauren Ash (episodes 3-10, season one), Lauren Flans (second season), and Donna Lynne Champlin (third season).
Before season two premiered, the series was renewed for a third season.
Paget Brewster (Dodo Bellancourt) is only five to ten years older than the cast members who play her children.
Though set in Newport, Rhode Island, it was filmed in southern California. The mansion featured in most exterior scenes is in Pasadena, California.