NBC has given a put pilot commitment to a new comedy from Larry Wilmore and London Hughes.
The untitled single-camera sitcom hails from studio Universal Television and Wilmore’s own production company, Wilmore Films. Wilmore and Hughes will write and executive produce together; Hughes will star.
The project focuses on character London Jones (Hughes), who after getting dumped by her boyfriend in England, comes to America to find success, herself, and maybe even love, according to NBC.
In general, a “put pilot” practically guarantees a show will be picked up to series, as by the nature of the agreement the pilot must air as either a special or a series. Should the network, NBC in the case, decide not to air it in any capacity, the network will have to pay substantial money to the studio. Of course, in this case, the studio is also owned by NBC.
“I’m beyond thrilled to be working with such an exciting fresh voice as London Hughes in her dream come true,” Wilmore said in a statement. “Rarely does a star burst on the scene as instantly bright as she has, and partnering with Universal Television and NBC makes this truly a dream team.”
“This show is honestly something I’ve wanted since I was 8 years old, and I can’t believe I get to make it for NBC with the absolute legend that is Larry Wilmore!” Hughes added. “Excited is an understatement! I’m this close to peeing myself!”
Candace Rodney of Wilmore Films is a producer on the potential NBC series.
Wilmore, who is repped by 3 Arts, UTA, and Hansen, Jacobson, Teller, Hoberman, has a podcast on The Ringer Podcast Network. The former host and executive producer of Comedy Central’s “The Nightly Show” has a legal drama, “Reasonable Doubt,” in development at ABC.
Hughes is repped by UTA, Haven Entertainment, Ziffren Brittenham and Curtis Brown Group in the UK.