NBC, the network stuck in fourth place out of four, has acquired a whole heap of new TV prospects. Head honcho Bob Greenblatt has commissioned a selection of pilots, mostly for comedies, from the brains behind recent hits, as well as brains not behind hits. Some of the more interesting potential series include ANIMAL KINGDOM, which sounds a bit like BECKER but with a vet, from the writer of STARSKY AND HUTCH, among other enjoyable enough movies.
SNL talk show host Jimmy Fallon is executive-producing a show about immature thirty-somethings struggling with fatherhood, which is sure to generate Apatow comparisons left, right and, indeed, centre. Also, Scott Silveri, writer of such FRIENDS episodes as that one with Winona Ryder, offers a sitcom about a sportscaster who goes into group therapy.
NBC has been the runt of the networks for a fair old while now, but seems to have a knack for acquiring terrific comedies (as well as really bad ones, but that’s par for the course). Its Thursday night line up currently boasts PARKS AND RECREATION and 30 ROCK, as well as THE OFFICE which is still fun even as it sails further past its peak with every moment. Going back a few years, the network has housed many of television’s finest comedies: CHEERS, SEINFELD, TAXI. This season’s UP ALL NIGHT has received decent (for NBC) viewing figures and a favourable reception. Whether or not these shows (joined by a new sitcom from Rosanne Barr and a US version of FRIDAY NIGHT DINNER (helmed by the US OFFICE’s Greg Daniels; perhaps one to look out for)) will restore the ailing network or even provide any entertainment whatsoever, it is good to see that NBC has a pretty clear idea of what it does best, and is trying to run with it.
Source: AV Club
