NBC is revving up its scripted programming output with three series orders from Universal Television – comedies “Grand Crew” and “American Auto,” and drama “La Brea” for the 2021-2022 season.
The series pickups come on the heels of Susan Rovner taking on the role of Chairman, Entertainment Content across NBCUniversal’s television portfolio, which includes NBC, the company’s six cable networks, and Peacock. Lisa Katz, who was recently named President, Scripted Content as part of Rovner’s team, made the announcement:
“Our driving force has always been to seek out talented storytellers who have a strong point of view,” Katz said. “While these shows are very different thematically, what they have in common is a unique voice, excellent world-building, and compelling storytelling. We can’t wait to share them with TV fans everywhere.”
AMERICAN AUTO
Set at the headquarters of a major American automotive company in Detroit where a floundering group of executives try to rediscover the company identity amidst a rapidly changing industry.
Cast: Ana Gasteyer, Jon Barinholtz, Harriet Dyer, Humphrey Ker, Michael B. Washington, Tye White and X Mayo
Genre: Comedy (single-cam)
Studio: Universal Television
Production companies: Spitzer Holding Company, Kapital Entertainment
Writer/EP: Justin Spitzer (“Superstore”)
Director/EP: Jeff Blitz (pilot)
EP: Aaron Kaplan, Dana Honor
GRAND CREW
A group of Black friends unpack the ups and downs of life and love at a wine bar.
Cast: Echo Kellum, Justin Cunningham, Carl Tart, Aaron Jennings and Nicole Byer
Genre: Comedy (single-cam)
Studio: Universal Television
Writer/EP: Phil Augusta Jackson (“Brooklyn Nine-Nine”)
EP: Dan Goor
Director/Co-EP: Mo Marable (pilot)
LA BREA
When a massive sinkhole mysteriously opens in Los Angeles, it tears a family in half, separating mother and son from father and daughter. When part of the family finds themselves in an unexplainable primeval world, alongside a disparate group of strangers, they must work to survive and uncover the mystery of where they are and if there is a way back home.
Genre: Drama
Studio: Universal Television
Production company: Keshet Studios
Writer/EP: David Applebaum (“NCIS: New Orleans”)
EP’s: Avi Nir, Alon Shtruzman, Peter Traugott, Rachel Kaplan, Ken Woodruff
Cast: Natalie Zea, Zyra Gorecki, and Chiké Okonkwo. Additional cast will be announced shortly.
