Five Gets New Duchovny Comedy
Five has acquired the exclusive terrestrial and digital rights to Californication, a brand new comedy drama series starring David Duchovny, from CBS Paramount International Television.
Duchovny, star of 90s mega-hit The X-Files, is Hank Moody a troubled novelist whose honesty and self-destructive behaviour – drinks, drugs and relationships – are simultaneously destroying and enriching his career.
The 12 episode series, which is produced by Showtime Networks, is set to broadcast on the US network Showtime in August.
The deal was negotiated between Vanessa Brookman, Five’s Controller of Acquisitions, and Stephen Tague of CBS Paramount International Television.
Vanessa Brookman, said: “I’m delighted that Five has acquired the rights to what is easily one of the most distinctive pilots I’ve seen. Californication is witty, sexy and original. It is a perfect fit for Five’s family of channels.”
This announcement follows the channel’s acquisition of the rights to Neighbours, after the BBC pulled out of negotiations with the programme’s distributor, FremantleMedia (see Five Takes Neighbours From BBC One For £300m).
On Monday, Five revealed that it is adding a new primetime TV quiz programme to its weeknight schedule. Payday will give eight players the chance of winning one of their fellow contestants’ annual salaries (see Five Launches New Weekday Quiz Format).
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