The show is loosely based on the Hollywood experiences of Mark Wahlberg, one of the executive producers.
Kevin Connolly had actually retired from acting when show creators first approached about doing the show. It wasn't until he was informed the part of Eric had been written specifically for him that he decided to take part.
The character of Billy Walsh is mainly based on show writer Rob Weiss and director Vincent Gallo. The story of Medellin getting trashed at the Cannes Film Festival was loosely based on Gallo's highly-criticized movie The Brown Bunny (2003).
Throughout the show, Ari's wife is always referred to as either Mrs. Ari or Mrs. Gold, or pet names like "honey, sweetie" by Ari. It isn't until the sixth episode of the last season that Bobby Flay addresses her as Melissa.