Watching Studio60

The good news is that Bradley Whitford’s set to produce and star in a comedy pilot for 2009. According to the Hollywood Reporter:

“Emmy winner Bradley Whitford is returning to NBC as star-producer of the single-camera comedy pilot Off Duty. Romany Malco has been tapped as the second lead in the UMS-produced buddy comedy, which has been greenlighted for production following a cast-contingent pilot order in July. Written by Upright Citizens Brigade comedian Jason Mantzoukas, Off Duty centers on a once-legendary police detective (Whitford) on his way down who complicates the life of his new partner (Malco) — a straight shooter on his way up — both on duty and off. American Work’s Scot Armstrong and Ravi Nandan will executive produce the project, with Mantzoukas co-executive producing and Whitford producing.”

The article goes on to point out that it’s Whitford’s first comedy series, although he certainly had plenty of comedy moments in The West Wing and Studio 60. At least according to what I see on IMDb, it’s his first time as a producer, too. Malco’s credits include Weeds on Showtime — so the two stars share Mary Louise Parker experience — as well as the movies The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Blades of Glory, Baby Mama. The premise isn’t the freshest thing I’ve ever heard, but it should provide plenty of opportunities for Whitford to exhibit his skills at comic frustration, anger, and superiority.

So what’s the bad news? Did you see what network’s involved here? Twice I’ve sworn never to watch NBC again after a show with Bradley Whitford is cancelled, and he keeps going back to the same dang network. The Peacock is playing with us.