Skylar Astin - H 2015
AP Images/InvisionSkylar Astin is heading to broadcast TV.
The Pitch Perfect breakout has been tapped to topline ABC’s untitled NBA comedy, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.
The buddy comedy is set in the world of the NBA and centers on a rookie who doesn’t speak English and a translator who doesn’t speak basketball.
Astin — who was fielding multiple pilot offers this season — will star as Jason, a sweet and slightly wimpy guy who was previously with the Peace Corps. A bit of a loser with no athletic prowess whatsoever,? Jason works as a teaching assistant and, while living in his ?parents’ basement, is tapped by the GM of an NBA team to be the translator for Mo, a new recruit from Botswana. A munchkin among giants in the world of professional basketball, Jason soon discovers that he’s being paid to be a lot more than just a translator. He also has to be the new player’s 24/7 guide/best friend/mentor and protector — and find a way to light a fire under this incredibly tall and talented athlete who seems to lack any drive.
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David Windsor and Casey Johnson (Trophy Wife) will pen the script for the single-camera comedy. Neighbors alum Dan Fogelman will exec produce alongside Mike Tollin, Peter Guber and Aaron Kaplan. John Fortenberry will direct the pilot, which hails from ABC Studios, Rhode Island Ave. Productions, Mandalay Sports Media, Kapital Entertainment and the NBA.
For Astin, the role comes days after TBS canceled Bill Lawrence comedy Ground Floor following a two-season run. Astin next stars in Pitch Perfect 2, due May 15. His credits also include Taking Woodstock and guest roles on Glee and Girls. He’s repped by UTA, Authentic, Principal and Felker Toczek.
Email: Lesley.Goldberg@THR.com
Twitter: @Snoodit