NBC has today made its first series orders from this year's pilot development cycle - picking up drama Bluff City Law starring Jimmy Smits and comedy Sunnyside starring Kal Penn.
Bluff City Law - Coming from a famous Memphis family known for taking on injustice, brilliant lawyer Sydney Strait used to work at her father Elijah's celebrated law firm until their tumultuous relationship got in the way. After barely speaking to him for years, Sydney is suddenly thrust back into the family fold when her philanthropist mother passes away unexpectedly. In the wake of her loss, hoping to reconnect with the daughter he loves, Elijah asks Sydney to rejoin his firm. She agrees because despite her lingering resentment and distrust, she knows that working alongside her father is her best hope at changing the world - if they can ever get along.
The drama stars Jimmy Smits, Caitlin McGee, Scott Shepherd, Barry Sloane, Michael Luwoye, Stony Blyden, MaameYaa Boafo and Jayne Atkinson.
Dean Georgaris wrote the pilot, which was directed by Jessica Yu. They executive produce with David Janollari and Michael Aguilar. Universal Television and David Janollari Entertainment produce.
Sunnyside - Garrett Modi was living the American Dream. As the youngest New York City Councilman ever, he was rubbing elbows with the political elite, attending star-studded parties and was the pride of Queens. But instead of spending his time in office helping the people that got him elected, he lost his way amidst the power and glamour of politics. When his downward spiral got him busted for public intoxication (and downright stupidity), it was all caught on tape and ended his career. Now, Garrett's crashing with his sister, Mallory, and wondering where it all went wrong. That is, until he's hired by a diverse group of hopefuls who dream of becoming American citizens and believe he can help - giving him a new sense of purpose and a chance for redemption, as long as he remembers where he came from.
The comedy stars Kal Penn, Kiran Deol, Moses Storm, Diana Maria Riva, Samba Schutte, Poppy Liu, Joel Kim Booster and Tudor Petrut.
Kal Penn and Matt Murray wrote the pilot, which was directed by Oz Rodriguez. They executive produce with Mike Schur, Dan Spilo and David Miner. Universal Television, 3 Arts Entertainment, Fremulon and Industry Entertainment produce.
