HBO Greenlights Comedy Series ‘The Franchise’

By R. Thomas Umstead
published

Himesh Patel, Aya Cash to star in superhero movie-making show

Himesh Patel
Himesh Patel in HBO’s ‘The Franchise’ (Image credit: HBO)

HBO has ordered to series a show that takes a comedic look at the making of a superhero-themed film.

The Sam Mendes-produced The Franchise series shines a light “on the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking,” according to HBO. The Franchise stars Himesh Patel, Aya Cash, Jessica Hynes, Billy Magnussen, Lolly Adefope, Darren Goldstein and Issac Powell. 

Also Read: HBO Renews 'The Righteous Gemstones' Comedy Series

The Franchise is executive produced by Mendes, Jon Brown, Armando Iannucci, Pilla Garris, Nicolas Brown and Julie Pastor. 

“With a deft touch only he can bring, Sam has brilliantly captured the romance and the reality of filmmaking today,” HBO programming executive VP and head of HBO & Max comedy series Amy Gravitt said in a statement. “Jon is superb at sending up worlds we think we already know. Together with Armando, they have delivered a truly hilarious comedy ensemble. I can’t wait to see more.”

R. Thomas Umstead
R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.