TNT Gives Series Order to 'The Last Ship'

        Tuesday, May 7 - Today, TNT has handed out a series order to the drama pilot The Last Ship. 10 episodes will be produced for the first season of the Michael Bay-produced drama - slated to air in early 2014.

        Based on the William Brinkley novel, The Last Ship centers on a global catastrophe that nearly obliterates the Earth's population, forcing the crew of a naval destroyer to confront the reality of their new existence in a world where they are among the only survivors. The cast is led by Grey's Anatomy alum Eric Dane who plays Tom Chandler, the commanding officer of the USS Nathan James who's married with two young daughters.

        The Last Ship hails from Platinum Dunes' Brad Fuller and Andrew Form (A Nightmare on Elm Street, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre), with Hank Steinberg (Without a Trace) and Steven Kane (The Closer) serving as executive producers with Bay. Steinberg and Kane co-wrote the pilot. Rhona Mitra, Adam Baldwin and Tracy Middendorf co-star.

        "The Last Ship has all the elements of a big Hollywood blockbuster, from its epic storytelling to its top-notch cast headed by the perfect leading man, Eric Dane," said Michael Wright, president and head of programming at TNT, TBS and Turner Classic Movies. "Michael Bay and his fellow executive producers have shaped William Brinkley's story and characters into an exceptional drama full of action, suspense, tragedy and triumph. The Last Ship is smart, fun television that takes you on a great ride."