FX has closed a 10/90 deal with Lionsgate Television and Lionsgates Debmar-Mercury for the new untitled sitcom starring Martin Lawrence and Kelsey Grammer, it was announced today by Chuck Saftler, President of Program Strategy and COO, FX Networks.
Comedy veterans Bob Boyett and Robert Horn, whose half-hour credits collectively include “Family Matters,” “Perfect Strangers,” “Full House,” “Living Single” and “Designing Women, will executive produce and write the Lionsgate Television-produced show. Executive producers also include Kelsey Grammer, Martin Lawrence, Brian Sher, Stella Bulochnikov, Michael Green and Sam Maydew.
The new sitcom marks the much-anticipated return to television of both Lawrence and Grammer, who play two Chicago lawyers from vastly different backgrounds who unexpectedly meet in court on the worst day of their lives. Brought together by fate and greed, they develop a partnership and friendship, forcing each other to find the balance between the ethical and the unscrupulous in both their professional and personal lives.
With the merging of two comedic geniuses, as well as two legendary showrunners, we couldnt have a stronger team on board for this show and cant wait to get to work, said Saftler. Were also thrilled to be continuing our relationship with the pros at Lionsgate and Debmar-Mercury.
I am excited to be returning to TV and to be working with Kelsey, said Lawrence. We have a great time together so I am looking forward to making a good show with a lot of laughs.
Grammer said, “Martin is arguably one of the funniest men alive and after some success in drama I thought it might be time to try my hand at comedy. I am thrilled to have this extraordinary team show me the ropes. All kidding aside, I don’t think a better bunch of talent exists; I am honored and blessed.”
The series will be produced by Lionsgate Television in association with Grammnet NH Productions and You Go Boy Productions.
Pair two great actors and comedy legends with the executive producing team behind some of the most memorable sitcoms ever, mix in the outstanding team at FX and you have all of the ingredients for another TV classic, commented Debmar-Mercury Co-Presidents Mort Marcus and Ira Bernstein. Our 10/90 model is all about delivering brand names and concepts that will grab viewers instantly, having incredible creative auspices and a very supportive network. This sitcom surpasses our criteria on virtually every level.
FX has ordered 10 episodes of the sitcom and, as is standard with the 10/90 model, if the series meets designated ratings thresholds over its first 10-episode run, the network will trigger an additional 90-episode order.
Lionsgate Television Group President Kevin Beggs added, There was an immediate rapport between Kelsey and Martin from their very first meeting, and when Bob and Robert joined as showrunners, all the stars aligned in a very exciting way. Were delighted that FX recognized the tremendous potential for this series and look forward to another great collaboration.
(Photos by Getty Images)
