Rachel Brosnahan’s Marvelous Makeover for Karlee’s Parents

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You might know her from her witty main character role in the award-winning drama series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, or perhaps you recognize her as the iconic Lois Lane in the new Superman movie that’s coming out on July 11, 2025. But on this Celebrity IOU, Rachel Brosnahan is stepping into a new role: Gifting her best friend’s parents with a kitchen renovation that is more than deserved—and it absolutely blew them away.

Karlee and Rachel first met at New York University in a Therapy and Theatre class, and they’ve been like sisters ever since. They’ve gone through life’s hardest battles and happiest moments—from Karlee being a bridesmaid in Rachel’s wedding, to the two comforting one another through life’s losses and heartaches. And for as much as Karlee has been pivotal to Rachel’s life, so has Karlee’s family. Her father and stepmother, Ron and Robin, have been two of Rachel’s biggest champions and supporters in her career, and over the past 15 years, have become chosen family.

“They’ve had a really, really difficult last couple years,” Rachel says. “They’ve had enough once-in-a-lifetime health issues for many lifetimes. Thankfully, they’re coming out the other side of this period, and so it feels like the perfect time just to be able to spread a little bit of extra love in the house the way that they do.”

To help them feel the love and support and give back for every time they’ve showed up for her, Rachel is surprising them with a much needed kitchen renovation with the help of Karlee. They want Ron and Robin to have a beautiful new space to host friends and family, make dinners for loved ones, and simply feel more comfortable in.

“This is what’s impressive to me,” Drew says. “It just shows how big a heart you have. I understand somebody giving back to their bestie—but you’re not just giving back to your bestie. You’re giving back to your bestie’s parents—that’s pretty cool.”

Before & Afters

Open, Modern Dining

Before the renovation, Ron and Robin’s dining room needed something to make it a little more light, bright, and beautiful. The mismatched dining table set and the dull lighting didn’t feel welcoming or cozy. So, with a few simple touches—like a new chandelier, neutral curtains, a beautiful new table, and a complementary area rug, the dining space ended up completely transforming into an inviting room worth hosting in.

Open Spaces and Touches of Color

Knocking down the wall was exactly what this space needed to visually come together. It didn’t just help the dining room become more part of the kitchen—it also helped the whole layout feel bigger. They were able to get a full-sized island into the space, complete with cozy breakfast bar seating and storage. And because the two windows can now let light into the same room, everything feels brighter. 

New Built-Ins and Plenty of Storage

The dramatic pop of color in the range and unique design in the island and built-ins is exactly what Ron and Robin wanted—stylish additions that embrace their personality.

“It was really fun to figure out how to retain the spirit of the space, but also give it the kind of update that you guys deserve,” Rachel says.

Lighting, Paint, and a Little TLC

In revealing the final look to Ron and Robin, everyone was filled with joy and emotion.

“It feels like an exhale in here now,” Karlee says.

From the butcher block on the island to the open floor plan and the stylish panel-ready appliances, Ron and Robin couldn’t stop smiling at the touches that Rachel and the Bros brought into their new space.

“It’s so thoughtfully done,” Robin says.

Click here to see all of the items featured in this episode!

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