Fox has given a pilot commitment to the one-hour comedy “Glee,” from “Nip/Tuck” creator Ryan Murphy, reports Variety.
The network is fast-tracking the project — which revolves around the world of high school glee clubs – and has ordered four additional scripts beyond the pilot. If all goes as planned, Fox hopes to have the show on the air by March, as a potential companion to “American Idol.”
Casting has already begun on “Glee,” which was created and written by Murphy, Brad Falchuk and Ian Brennan. 20th Century Fox TV is the studio.
“Glee,” which takes place in the Midwest, centers on Will, a Spanish teacher who suddenly is called to coach the glee club at the school. The club is one of the worst in the nation – but the adults and kids are inspired to turn things around.
Murphy’s looking to cast a multicultural cast, as well as a mix of straight and gay characters.
The show’s leads won’t break out into song, but Murphy said the series will contain at least four songs per episode – organically sung on stage by the choir. Taking a page from “Idol,” the performers will croon popular, well-known tunes.
Murphy will direct the pilot and executive produce with Falchuk; both Murphy and Falchuk would showrun should “Glee” go to series. Brennan will co-executive produce, while Mike Novick is a producer.
