InsideTV
Sean Hayes’ return to TV just took another big step forward. The project is near a deal to sign Rescue Me co-creator Peter Tolan and his writer partner Michael Wimer — and wait until you hear what it’s about.
Tolan will serve as a writer and executive producer on the show, which will be produced by Universal Media Studios and Sony Pictures TV. EW has also learned the mysterious project’s logline: The untitled family comedy follows two men tasked with raising a 12 year old. If that broadcast sitcom concept sounds familiar, it’s because you haven’t heard the twist yet: The two dads are a gay couple.
Though the Sean Hayes comedy is still in the development stage, getting the former Will & Grace star back in front of the camera is clearly a priority for the network’s new programming chief Robert Greenblatt, who announced the project at the Television Critics Association press tour earlier this month.
Though gay portrayals on TV have made significant strides in recent years, especially thanks to ensemble shows Fox’s Glee and ABC’s Modern Family, a show centered around a gay couple would be unique in the current broadcast TV landscape.
Tolan may be best known in recent years for the edgy Rescue Me, which is ending its seven-season run, but he has plenty of comedy experience. He has worked on The Larry Sanders Show and Murphy Brown, as well as penned films like Analyze This and Bedazzled.