Ari Graynor Boards Showtime’s Jim Carrey Dark Comedy (Exclusive)

Ari Graynor is returning to the small screen.

The actress, who previously starred in CBS’ Bad Teacher, has joined the ensemble cast of Showtime’s Jim Carrey dark comedy I’m Dying Up Here.

The hourlong drama centers on L.A.’s celebrated and infamous stand-up comedy scene of the 1970s. The pilot will delve into the inspired and damaged psyches that inhabit the hilarious but complex business of making an audience laugh.

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Graynor will play the series regular role of Cassie, an ambitious comedian from Texas who wants to be taken as seriously as her male comic contemporaries. Smart, witty and determined — to the male comics she’s one of them, yet club owner Goldie (uncast) isn’t convinced she’s ready for the big time and challenges her to dig deep to find her identity.

Graynor, whose credits include For a Good Time Call and Celeste & Jesse Forever, is represented by UTA, Authentic Talent and Lichter Grossman.

Set to film in the fall, I’m Dying Up Here is written and exec produced by former stand-up comedian Dave Flebotte (Will & Grace). Carrey and Flebotte will executive produce alongside Michael Aguilar (The Departed) and Christina Wayne (Copper). The pilot is based on the nonfiction novel by William Knoedelseder and will be directed by Jonathan Levine (Warm Bodies). The dramedy hails from Endemol Shine Studios and Assembly Entertainment.
Graynor joins previously announced castmembers including Erik Griffin, Andrew Santino and Stephen Guarino.