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Hulu continues to bulk up its scripted originals.
The streaming service has handed out a 10-episode straight-to-series order for the Jason Reitman-produced comedy Casual, The Hollywood Reporter has learned, marking the Oscar nominee’s first TV foray.
Casual revolves around a dysfunctional family with a bachelor brother and his newly divorced sister. Together, they coach each other through the crazy world of dating (online and off), while living under one roof again and raising a teenager.
Zander Lehmann is on board to pen the series, which hails from Lionsgate Television. Reitman will executive produce and direct the premiere. Reitman’s (Up in the Air, Juno) Right of Way Films production partner Helen Estabrook (Whiplash, Young Adult) will also exec produce alongside Lehmann. Production will begin this year for a 2015 debut.
“Jason Reitman uniquely blends comedy and drama in a way that touches the human spirit. We are honored to work with him to bring the next distinctive voice, Zander Lehmann, to television,” Hulu senior vp and head of content Craig Erwich said.
Added Reitman: “I’ve long looked for the right first step into episodic storytelling. In Zander Lehmann, I have found the perfect collaborator. His writing is hilarious and provocative.”
For Lionsgate Television, Casual marks the company’s second original series on Hulu and joins Deadbeat. The company also produces Netflix’s Emmy darling Orange Is the New Black. The banner also produces Mad Men, Nurse Jackie, Nashville, Anger Management and more.
“We are big fans of Jason’s work, Zander’s scripts and their wonderfully perceptive take on contemporary family life,” Lionsgate Television Group chairman Kevin Beggs said. “Working with Hulu has been a great experience and we’re excited about this latest expansion of our relationship.”
For Hulu, Casual arrives a month after the streaming service picked up J.J. Abrams’ Stephen King event series 11/22/63 with a straight-to-series order.
Reitman’s Up in the Air earned Oscar nominations for best picture, directing and its adapted screenplay. He was also nominated for directing Juno. He’s repped by WME and Jackoway Tyerman.
Email: Lesley.Goldberg@THR.com
Twitter: @Snoodit
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