Since its re-branding in 2008, FX has been churning out hit show after hit show. The network’s original programming has placed FX among the most critically acclaimed channels on TV, with shows like It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia, Archer, and Sons of Anarchy (too name a few) it is doubtful that the network’s success will be short lived.
They also show no sign of slowing down with their output of original shows. This year alone FX will debut two new series, Fargo and The Strain, as well as release new seasons of their existing popular shows. Now, we're getting word that two more pilots are currently in the works.
According to Deadline, FX has ordered two new comedy pilots. One will be created by and star Zach Galifianakis (The Hangover), and co-written by Louis C.K. (Louie). The other pilot, titled How and Why, is written by Charlie Kaufman (the man behind Being John Malkovich and The Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind) and will star John Hawkes (Eastbound and Down) and Michael Cera (Arrested Development). Both pilots look promising.
FX has a lot of faith in Louis C.K., and for good reason (Louie is another popular FX original), hence the deal that they recently signed with the acclaimed comedian. Under the new agreement, Louis C.K.’s company, Pig Newton, will develop and produce new series for FX. It appears the first series that Louis wants to bring to life is the brainchild of Galifianakis.
With no information on what the show will be about (and no guarantee it will get picked up), it's premature to get overexcited. Then again, these are two of the funniest comedians working today. No doubt fans of comedy will be eager to see what they come up with.
The creators of How and Why, on the other hand, have already released details about the shows premise: “The story of Goodman Hesselman, who can explain how and why a nuclear reactor works but is clueless about life.” Hesselman, who will be played by John Hawkes, loses his job hosting a children’s TV show (also called How and Why), and attempts to start over in a smaller market on a little TV station in the middle of nowhere. Mendelson, his new boss, will be played by Michael Cera. During his stint at his new job, Hesselman encounters the supernatural world.
The premise is admittedly strange, but that’s exactly what we should expect from Kaufman. He managed to pull off some bizarre stories in his movies, so this probably won’t be an exception. With a Hawkes and Cera to add a bit of star power to the mix, How and Why (assuming it gets picked up) will be another off-brand comedy by FX that could complement their already diverse programming.
We'll keep you posted as more details about these projects are released.
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