
In terms of visual style, the show has some similarities with the 2025 film “Friendship,” directed by Andrew DeYoung and featuring Robinson and Paul Rudd. DeYoung is an executive producer for “The Chair Company” and directed its premiere episode. At first glance, the main character in the series, William Ronald Trosper, portrayed by Robinson, may seem reminiscent of his “Friendship” character, Craig Waterman, but Robinson believes his “Chair Company” character might be more palatable for viewers who are sensitive to awkward moments: “I don’t believe Ron is as tough a pill to swallow as Craig Waterman is,” he says. “I think Ron is a proud man, and like many of the characters Zach and I have worked on, doesn’t like to feel embarrassed … This time, maybe he found something he can excel at.