Picture a New Jersey-born storyteller who spun her love for pop culture and queerness into a whip-smart essay collection that’s got everyone talking—meet Jill Gutowitz! With her debut book Girls Can Kiss Now, this writer, director, and humorist has carved out a unique space, blending humor, heart, and fearless authenticity to captivate readers and viewers alike.
From her viral Twitter quips to her incisive essays in The New Yorker and Vanity Fair, Jill’s work resonates with a diverse audience, offering a fresh lens on identity, relationships, and the internet age. Her journey from a Nickelodeon production assistant to an acclaimed author is as colorful as her writing, and her impact is only growing.
The Making of Jill Gutowitz
Born and raised in New Jersey, Jill Gutowitz grew up with a sharp wit and a knack for storytelling. Her early career saw her diving into the entertainment world, working as a post-production assistant for Nickelodeon and a production coordinator for Sony Pictures. These roles honed her ability to navigate the fast-paced media landscape, but it was her online presence—particularly her hilariously candid Twitter posts—that first caught the public’s eye. One tweet about Game of Thrones even landed her a visit from the FBI, a story she recounts with her signature humor. Her freelance writing gigs for outlets like Vulture and Vice soon followed, cementing her as a voice to watch.
Jill Gutowitz’s Unforgettable Stories
Jill’s debut essay collection, Girls Can Kiss Now (2022), is a standout, earning praise from Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Refinery29 for its “wickedly funny and heartstoppingly vulnerable” take on queerness, pop culture, and identity. The book weaves personal stories—like her coming-of-age alongside Orange Is the New Black—with sharp cultural commentary, making it a must-read for fans of Samantha Irby or Jia Tolentino.
Beyond the page, Jill’s talents shine in screenwriting and directing. Her short film The Ladies (2022), starring Lisa Ann Walter, premiered at OutFest and won Best Director at the LGBTQ+ Toronto Film Festival. She’s also penned scripts for Quibi’s Gayme Show and directed promotional videos for Netflix, showcasing her knack for blending humor with heartfelt storytelling. Her earlier work, like the web series Modern Impressions (2013), hints at her playful style, while her contributions to Henry Danger (2014) reveal her versatility in mainstream media.
Jill’s writing is defined by its accessibility and authenticity. Whether she’s dissecting lesbian fashion trends in Harper’s Bazaar or exploring her own vulnerabilities in Girls Can Kiss Now, her voice is relatable yet bold, inviting readers into her world with a wink and a laugh.
Why Jill Gutowitz Matters
Jill Gutowitz’s impact lies in her ability to make the personal universal. Her work bridges the gap between niche queer experiences and mainstream culture, offering a roadmap for navigating identity in a hyper-connected world. By fearlessly tackling topics like sexuality, self-worth, and the absurdity of internet fame, she’s inspired a new generation of writers and creators to embrace their truths. Her influence extends beyond literature, shaping conversations in film, television, and online spaces where her humor and insights continue to spark dialogue.
- Birthplace: New Jersey, USA
- Key Works: Girls Can Kiss Now (2022), The Ladies (2022), Modern Impressions (2013)
- Awards: Best Director, LGBTQ+ Toronto Film Festival (2022)
- Fun Fact: Lives in Los Angeles with her partner and a very small cat
Ready to dive into Jill Gutowitz’s world of wit and wisdom? Grab Girls Can Kiss Now for a hilarious, heartfelt ride through her one-of-a-kind perspective!