NBC is stacking up its comedy lineup with a fresh new pilot, tapping into Native storytelling once again. The network has officially picked up a single-camera comedy set at a Native American community center in Oakland, California—a project that brings together some familiar and critically acclaimed creatives.
The untitled comedy comes from Rutherford Falls co-creator Sierra Teller Ornelas, comedian-writer Jackie Keliiaa, and Reservation Dogs alum Bobby Wilson. All three are writing and executive producing, with Teller Ornelas set to serve as showrunner. Morgan Sackett (The Good Place, Veep) is also on board as an executive producer. Universal Television, where both Teller Ornelas and Sackett have overall deals, is backing the series.
According to the official logline, the series is an ensemble comedy following the employees of a Native community center as they hustle to keep the lights on—both figuratively and literally—while supporting those in need.
Teller Ornelas, Wilson, and Sackett are no strangers to bringing Native-led narratives to the screen. The trio previously worked together on Rutherford Falls, the critically praised Peacock series that put Native representation front and center in comedy. Wilson not only wrote for the show but also starred as Wayne, a casino employee who quickly became a fan favorite.
NBC’s Comedy Slate Is Heating Up
This project joins two other NBC comedy pilots in the works—one starring Tracy Morgan and another diving into the cutthroat world of junior college cheerleading.
Morgan’s untitled comedy, helmed by Tina Fey, Robert Carlock, and Sam Means, follows a disgraced former football player (Morgan) trying to rebuild his image. But with his no-nonsense ex-wife (played by Erika Alexander), an award-winning filmmaker (Daniel Radcliffe) documenting his every move, and his ever-loyal ex-teammate (Bobby Moynihan) along for the ride, it’s bound to be anything but smooth sailing.
Meanwhile, Stumble, a mockumentary from Liz and Jeff Astrof, is set to bring some hilarious, high-stakes drama to the world of junior college cheerleading.
With these three pilots in the pipeline, NBC is clearly doubling down on comedy—and with Rutherford Falls fans still looking for more Native representation on-screen, this community center comedy has all the right ingredients to deliver.
No word yet on casting or a premiere date, but if NBC moves forward, this could be one to watch. Stay tuned.