Lionsgate to Rep Debmar-Mercury Sitcom

SANTA MONICA: Lionsgate has picked up the international distribution rights to Big Lake, a sitcom from Gary Sanchez Productions—to be distributed in the U.S. by Debmar-Mercury—that is due to premiere on Comedy Central in the third quarter.

The multi-camera sitcom, executive produced by Will Ferrell, Adam McKay and Chris Henchy, will be previewed for international buyers at this month’s L.A. Screenings. Announcing the rights acquisition, Peter Iacono, the managing director of international television at Lionsgate, noted: “Mort and Ira have a much-deserved reputation for shepherding highly successful series and Big Lake will continue that tradition. We are excited as this marks the first of what we look forward to being many ongoing and mutually-beneficial alliances with our sister company, Debmar-Mercury, for the international marketplace.”

Debmar-Mercury co-president Mort Marcus added: “With this show’s excellent creative auspices, internationally relatable humor and unique business model, we believe Big Lake will be a strong performer in the global marketplace.”

The show stars Chris Gethard (Upright Citizens Brigade), Chris Parnell (Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock) and Horatio Sanz (SNL) as a trio of old friends who embark on well-intentioned—but ultimately unsuccessful—schemes to save their hometown, Big Lake. Comedy Central has issued a ten-episode order with an option for an additional 90 following the initial run. Debmar-Mercury, which would retain the rights to take the sitcom into domestic syndication in fall 2012, employed a similar model with Tyler Perry’s successful sitcom ventures.