Original Australian Commission for Paramount+

Production has started on Spreadsheet, ViacomCBS Australia and New Zealand’s first original Australian commissioned drama series for Paramount+.

Katherine Parkinson (The IT Crowd, Doc Martin) leads the cast of Spreadsheet, alongside Stephen Curry, Robbie Magasiva, Rowan Witt, Katrina Milosevic, Ryan Shelton, Zahra Newman, Tina Bursill and Richard Piper. The eight-part series is about divorced, hectic mother-of-two Lauren (Parkinson), who is looking for sex without commitment. She develops a database of sex options, customized to ensure variety and order amid the chaos of her life.

The series is produced by Northern Pictures in association with ITV Studios and created by Kala Ellis.

ViacomCBS Australia and New Zealand’s head of drama and production, Rick Maier, said: “When you read an idea this fresh and laugh out loud funny from such an original voice as Kala Ellis, it very quickly gets into your system. Then when you add Katherine Parkinson and this sensational ensemble you know you’re really onto something. I can’t think of a better first original commission for Paramount+.”

Northern Pictures’ executive producer and head of scripted, Catherine Nebauer, said: “Northern Pictures prides itself on creating unique series’, which surprise and delight, and this is certainly one of them! It’s been a joy to see Spreadsheet come together, with such a talented team behind it. Director Darren Ashton and creator/writer Kala Ellis have worked closely together to create the perfect blend of comedy, drama and spice, which only Katherine Parkinson can deliver!”

ITV Studios’s executive VP of global content, Julie Meldal-Johnsen, said: “Just thinking about Spreadsheet puts a smile on my face. Kala’s writing is warm, funny and poignant at the same time—making Katherine Parkinson the perfect person to play the hilarious and chaotic Lauren. Working with producer Northern Pictures again is a pleasure and we are very proud to be bringing Paramount+ Australia’s first original comedy commission to our international clients. The show is sexy, frank, unapologetic and we are sure will engage and entertain people around the world.”