Portland producer converts home savings into funding for new improv series

An official trailer for 'That Got Weird' was released Tuesday, October 27. The series is a multicamera comedy game show that will debut later this fall on the show's website and YouTube. Additional clips are scheduled for release on social media.

Kyle Stebbins, the show's creator, developed the project starting at the beginning of 2026. He secured a grant from the Regional Arts & Culture Council to assist with production. However, a major portion of the budget came from his personal savings. Stebbins had been saving for a home purchase the previous year. He toured several properties and submitted offers that were rejected. He realized his focus had shifted from finding a house to creating a studio space for the show. The money set aside for a down payment became a primary funding source for the production.

The show features three local improvisers per episode who compete in challenges that become progressively more complex. The prompts draw on specific local characteristics. One example involved clearing out a McMenamins soaking pool with a single line. A contestant responded by saying, 'That's not a Cajun tot in there.' The series was filmed at Desert Island Studios. Stebbins worked with friends in the local creative community, including set designers, casting crews, and writing teams.

Stebbins moved from Nebraska to Portland nearly 14 years ago on Thanksgiving Day. He had previously studied film and advertising at the University of Nebraska. In Portland, he transitioned into documentary filmmaking. He began performing improv in 2015 after taking a class at the Brody Theater, which closed in 2018. He now performs regularly at multiple theaters across the city.

"I'm no hero," Stebbins said. "For me, it's about the community, the improv community and these performers deserving a spotlight in any capacity." He stated that he wanted to spotlight Portland's improv scene, noting, "Why should LA have all the fun?" He described the experience of performing as terrifying and rewarding. He said, "I've always loved improv. I just never really knew that I would love doing improv."

The show's website, thatgotweirdshow.com, and its YouTube channel are currently active. Stebbins plans to assess the community response after the initial release. He intends to raise funds for a second season based on that reception.