FX Signs Atlanta Creator Donald Glover to Overall Deal

LOS ANGELES: FX has signed Atlanta creator Donald Glover to an exclusive overall television production deal.

The pact will see Glover develop TV series for FX Networks and other networks and streaming services, in addition to continuing to executive produce, write, direct and star in Atlanta. The series will not be returning though until 2018, due to Glover’s production schedule.

The news comes fresh off a big night at the Golden Globes for Glover and Atlanta. The first season won the award for best television series musical or comedy, and Glover was honored for best performance by an actor in the same category.

“Donald is a remarkable artist, effortlessly shifting from actor to writer, producer, director and musician to create one amazing project after another,” said Nick Grad, co-president of original programming at FX Networks and FX Productions. “Atlanta was just the beginning, the breakout comedy of the year and a series revered as much for its originality as its honest look at the experience of being aspiring, young and black in that legendary city. We’re proud to partner with Donald in an overall deal that will allow him to continue turning his creative vision into incredible television.”

Also, FX Networks has extended its American Horror Story order for two additional installments, adding an eighth and ninth year to the previously announced seventh chapter.

The Emmy-, Golden Globe- and AFI Award-winning series from co-creators Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk will return to FX in 2017 for the seventh installment. The sixth chapter, AHS: Roanoke, was 2016’s number one limited/miniseries in cable among adults 18 to 49 and adults 18 to 34.

“American Horror Story launched the modern limited series revolution and—as evidenced by the most recent installment, Roanoke—it remains as vital today as when Murder House stunned audiences six years ago,” said John Landgraf, CEO of FX Networks and FX Productions. “Each new chapter is a cultural event, beloved for every new twist in imagery, style, cast and plot. We are thrilled that Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk and the entire creative team will continue to deliver the groundbreaking, celebrated American Horror Story for years to come.”