FX Buys Kelsey Grammer-Martin Lawrence Syndication-Friendly Lawyer Sitcom
For as much as FX's 'Anger Management' has been in the news this week, with questions arising over whether Charlie Sheen would abandon his 10/90 production deal, it seems FX hasn't soured on the format. The cable network has officially purchased an as-yet untitled sitcom starring Kelsey Grammer and Martin Lawrence under the same model, but what will the odd-couple pairing bring to TV?
The untitled comedy from Lionsgate Television and Debmar-Mercury productions would see Grammer and Lawrence in the roles of 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, the two develop a partnership that evolves into friendship, forcing each other to find the balance between "the ethical and the unscrupulous in both their professional and personal lives."
Said Grammer of the new deal (which comes on the heels of another 10/90 deal between FX and comedian George Lopez):
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.
Lawrence too chimed in on the announcement:
I am excited to be returning to TV and to be working with Kelsey. We have a great time together so I am looking forward to making a good show with a lot of laughs.
For those unfamiliar with the concept, FX will air 10 episodes of the new Grammer-Lawrence sitcom, and purchase an additional 90 if the first showings meet a certain ratings threshold. The hundred episodes is key because once a show hits that number it can be syndicated. 'Anger Management' has to date completed 34 episodes of its run, while 'Saint George' has yet to be scheduled on the network.
What say you? Will Kelsey Grammer and Martin Lawrence's new sitcom flourish given the actors' roots? What would you like to see from the series when it enters production?