Hulu's Cable Guy Series
Hulu Greenlights Pilot for The Cable Guy-Inspired Series Reuniting Johnson, Wayans Jr.
Hulu has ordered a pilot for an untitled comedy series inspired by the 1996 dark comedy The Cable Guy, reuniting New Girl stars Jake Johnson and Damon Wayans Jr. as both performers and executive producers. Produced by Sony Pictures Television and Original Film, the project is not intended as a remake, instead taking a Fargo-like approach by honoring the original story’s themes while adapting them for the streaming era. The logline centers on old-school cable technician Chip Douglas, who is lonely until childhood friend Steven Stephens reconnects him—though Chip’s enthusiasm quickly turns obsessive, driving a look at the darkly absurd side of modern male friendship. Writers and co-showrunners Rob Rosell, Joe Piarulli, and Luan Thomas will also serve as executive producers. The pilot order lands on the 30th anniversary of The Cable Guy’s theatrical debut, and Hulu has so far only greenlit the pilot rather than a full series commitment.
Key Points
The series’ executive-producer lineup includes Neal H. Moritz and Pavun Shetty in addition to Hulu’s two stars and the series’ writing team, expanding on the production credits beyond just Sony Pictures Television and Original Film.
The original film’s reported financial footprint: directed by Ben Stiller and produced on a reported $47 million budget, it grossed over $102 million worldwide and has since developed a cult following despite mixed reviews at the time.
Deadline reports Jake Johnson has another upcoming NBC series, and—if this Hulu pilot is picked up—he could potentially do both projects.
Several outlets emphasize the “Fargo” comparison, but also stress the new Hulu series would keep closer ties to the original film than Fargo did—while still avoiding a straight remake—because the creators are fans aiming to honor the IP.
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