AMC Networks Greenlights Straight Man

AMC Networks has greenlit Straight Man, a new comedic drama series starring Emmy-nominated Bob Odenkirk, for AMC and AMC+.

A mid-life crisis story, Straight Man is told in the first person by William Henry Devereaux, Jr. (Odenkirk), the unlikely chairman of the English department at an underfunded college in Pennsylvania. AMC Networks partnered on the series with Sony Pictures Television’s TriStar Television and Gran Via. It is slated to premiere in 2023.

Aaron Zelman and Paul Lieberstein adapted Straight Man from the novel of the same name by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Richard Russo and will also serve as co-showrunners.

Dan McDermott, president of entertainment and AMC Studios for AMC Networks, said: “The saying goes ‘the third time’s a charm,’ but when it comes to Bob Odenkirk on AMC, the first and second times were about as charming, captivating and viscerally entertaining as it gets. As Better Call Saul begins its epic sixth and final season, we could not be more excited by the prospect of keeping Bob at home on AMC and watching him breathe life into another nuanced, complicated and unforgettable character. The chance to collaborate once again with our partners at Sony Pictures Television and Mark Johnson’s Gran Via is even more icing on a very satisfying cake.”

Odenkirk said: “I am thrilled that AMC is embracing the unique scenario and characters in Paul and Aaron’s adaptation of Straight Man. I have loved the mix of comedy and drama in Better Call Saul, and this is another story with a unique dynamic and the kind of closely observed character writing and exploration that AMC has become the touchstone for. It’s going to be fun to play and watch!”

Zelman and Lieberstein added: “We’re so excited to work with Bob. We don’t know another actor who can give you three different emotions on his face at the same time, in a reaction shot. We’re thrilled to swim in the depth of his range. And it’s a dream to be working with Mark Johnson, who literally has Jedi powers to make everyone think they came up with his idea. Oh, and did we mention the legendary Peter Farrelly? AMC Networks and Sony/Tristar have been uniquely supportive partners in sharing our vision for the show. Ever since Mad Men, we’ve wanted a show on this network, where risk-taking is par for the course. We’re honored to be bringing Richard Russo’s amazing novel to life here.”

Jeff Frost, president of Sony Pictures Television Studios, and Jason Clodfelter, co-president of Sony Pictures Television Studios, said: “We are thrilled to be on this next adventure with AMC, Bob Odenkirk and Mark Johnson. We have had such amazing success and such a remarkable partnership together and truly look forward to working with Aaron and Paul in bringing this captivating series to life.”