Earlier this week, Comedy Central announced an exciting list of new projects in the works, aimed at broadening the network’s horizons. Among the slate of material are a new game show starring the man of many talents Reggie Watts, a new variety series of sorts with Baron Vaughn (Grace and Frainkie, Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Return) and a mockumentary-style pilot hosted by Neal Brennan of Chappelle’s Show fame.
Watts’ newly-greenlit series, entitled Taskmaster, is an adaptation of a UK series by the same name, which sees comedians attempting to outwit one another while competing at extreme and ridiculous tasks. Watts will star at the Taskmaster himself and will be joined by his loyal assistant, the original series creator Alex Horne.
Vaughn’s series, The New Negroes, which Comedy Central describes as a “socially aware stand-up and musical series,” will explore black entertainment and black life in modern America. Vaughn will pair up with Open Mike Eagle, with whom he exec-produced the show, to co-host the series, challenging notions of the black experience while also showcasing both veteran and up-and-coming comedic talents.
Brennan, who is set to direct Michelle Wolf’s debut stand-up special hitting HBO later this year, is at the center of one of many pilots ordered by Comedy Central. Home for the Weekend will see the 3 Mics comedian and a variety of celebrity guests venturing back to their old hoods which, more often than not, lays the tracks for some unexpected detours and surprising revelations.
These are just a few of the many projects announced by Comedy Central. The third and final green light was offered to the scripted series Corporate, from Pat Bishop, Matt Ingebretson & Jake Weisman (and featuring Aparna Nancherla), offering a darker fare through the eyes of Matt and Jake (Ingebretson and Weisman) as they try to survive life at “your average, soulless multi-national corporation.”
Among the other pilots are a half-hour sketch show, Alternatino, from Broad City’s Arturo Castro and Power Couple — created, written and executive produced by Noël Wells (SNL, Master of None). The Comedy Central digital series-turned-pilot Delco Proper will spotlight Delaware County, PA while Diallo Riddle, Bashir and Sultan Salahuddin will put Chicago on the map with their Untitled South Side Project pilot. Other CC pilot talent includes Nora Lum aka Awkwafina, Franchesca Ramsey, Jak Knight, Chris Kelly and Sarah Schneider.