Matthew Perry is reportedly set to star as the title character in a new series for Showtime, playing an egomaniacal local talk show host who is on a reluctant path to redemption. Showtime has given a pilot commitment to Perry and Peter Tolan who have created “The End of Steve,” a dark comedy that the duo are writing and executive producing.
olan, also, co-created and executive produces the FX drama “Rescue Me” for Sony and will continue in that capacity as well.
Showtime president of entertainment Robert Greenblatt said. “I’ve been trying to get into business with Peter Tolan for literally 20 years, so my persistence finally paid off. And I couldn’t be happier than to have him co-creating this bitingly funny character with Matthew Perry, who seems born to play this character better than anyone I can think of.” “Tolan and Perry, a twisted match made in heaven!”
Sony Pictures TV president Zack Van Amburg added that the role is unlike any Perry has played.
“This role will show fans that he can be not only funny but also reach to some dark places,” he said. “It will be a departure from the way America thinks of Matthew. This is the beginning of a really exciting journey.”
Perry’s last series regular role was on NBC’s “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip” during the 2006-07 season. Perry, who next appears in the film “17 Again,” recently received Emmy, Golden Globe and SAG nominations for his role in the TNT telefilm “The Ron Clark Story.”
