Kelsey Grammer, Martin Lawrence To Star In FX Sitcom

FX has acquired a new sitcom starring comedians Martin Lawrence and Kelsey Grammer.

FX has ordered 10 episodes of the as yet titled series from Lionsgate Television distribution company Debmar-Mercury, which will balloon to a 90-episode order if the series meets certain ratings thresholds. The network reached a similar deal with Lionsgate/Debmar in April for a sitcom starring comedian George Lopez.

Grammer and Lawrence will star as two Chicago lawyers who unexpectedly meet in court and form an unlikely business partnership and friendship, according to FX.  

Comedy veterans Bob Boyett and Robert Horn (Family Matters, Perfect Strangers, Full House, Living Single) will executively produce and write the show.

“With the merging of two comedic geniuses, as well as two legendary showrunners, we couldn’t have a stronger team on board for this show and can’t wait to get to work,” said Chuck Saftler, President of Program Strategy and COO, FX Networks.  “We’re also thrilled to be continuing our relationship with the pros at Lionsgate and Debmar-Mercury.” 

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.