Eddie Murphy is set to make a major television move with The Chairman, a new drama series currently in development at Peacock that would mark his first leading role in a live-action scripted television series.<\/p>\n
The project comes from Matthew Weiner, the acclaimed creator of Mad Men and a writer and executive producer on The Sopranos. Murphy is attached to star and executive produce the series, with Weiner also serving as writer and executive producer.<\/p>\n
Plot details for The Chairman are being kept under wraps, and Peacock has not yet given the project an official series order. As a result, there is currently no announced premiere date or additional cast.<\/p>\n
If the project moves forward, it will represent a new territory for Murphy, whose television career began with his legendary four-season run on Saturday Night Live from 1980 to 1984. Since leaving the sketch-comedy series, however, Murphy has largely focused on movies, stand-up and other projects.<\/p>\n
His previous scripted television work includes the animated comedy The PJs, which he co-created and voiced, as well as his involvement with The Royal Family in the 1990s. Neither project gave him the kind of live-action starring role that The Chairman would provide.<\/p>\n
Murphy has nevertheless demonstrated his dramatic range on the big screen, most notably with his Oscar-nominated performance as James \u201cThunder\u201d Early in Dreamgirls. His extensive film career includes the Beverly Hills Cop franchise, Coming to America, The Nutty Professor, Dolemite Is My Name and The Pickup.<\/p>\n
For Weiner, The Chairman represents his latest television project following his work on Mad Men and The Romanoffs. He also worked extensively on The Sopranos, adding considerable television experience to the project.<\/p>\n
The series is being produced by 101 Studios and Universal Television. It also marks their first collaboration under a first-look film and television deal between 101 Studios and NBCUniversal.<\/p>\n
While fans will have to wait for more information about the story and characters, The Chairman could give Murphy his first opportunity to lead a live-action scripted television series after more than four decades as one of Hollywood\u2019s most recognizable stars.<\/p>\n
For now, the project remains in development, with its eventual series order and release plans yet to be announced.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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