Production on The Get Down began nearly two years ago, so why did the Netflix series premiere just last week? Co-creator Baz Luhrmann recently discussed the show’s long and expensive production, Entertainment Weekly reports.

From Luhrmann and Stephen Adly Guirgis, the musical drama chronicles the birth of hip hop in late 1970s New York City. The cast includes Justice Smith, Shameik Moore, Skylan Brooks, Jaden Smith, and Jimmy Smits.

When asked about why it took so long to shoot, Luhrmann said it was partly his fault:

It became evident from everyone that I would have to be involved in almost every aspect of this show and so I don’t know if I’m the show runner, but I certainly do a lot to do with the show and I’m always running. So, you know?

I just had to say, ‘Look we’re gonna have to just halt shooting because I can’t be available to every person. It’s being pulled in a hundred directions and never feeling that it’s concluded. There’s always something starting while you’re finishing something – you know? It’s simply the time. I mean I don’t want to sound like the whiner, right? But let’s say somebody else told you that I have not had a weekend off in eighteen months. I work seven days a week because that’s what it needs. That’s what it takes.”

The first six episodes of The Get Down are currently streaming on Netflix.

What do you think? Have you seen The Get Down yet? Do you think it was worth the long production time?