USA picks up three new drama series
USA Network may be the No. 1 basic-cable network for the seventh year running, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t want to up it’s game when it comes to original programming. On Wednesday USA announced that it had given the green light to three new drama pilots, including one from “Burn Notice” creator Matt Nix.
“These pilots illustrate our continued commitment to creating the next evolution of powerful original dramas for which USA is well known,” said Chris McCumber, the network’s president, in a news release. “This particular mix of dramas comes from some of the top writers and producers in the industry, each of whom brings a distinct point of view and unique talent for developing high-stakes story lines and compelling characters.”
The announcement that Nix has a new show in the works comes hot on the heels of the September series finale of “Burn Notice.” In its seven years on air, “Burn Notice” was a huge hit for USA. In 2009 it became the most-watched scripted series ever on basic cable in the coveted 18-49 demographic. It was nominated for multiple Emmys over the years.
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In September Nix told The Times, “I have another show at USA -- a pilot -- hopefully it’ll go to series but you never know, and I’m acutely conscious of how lucky I was to have something like ‘Burn Notice’ my first time out. I know firsthand not everything is successful and you really have to savor the things that are.”
Nix’s new project is titled “Complications” and it’s about a jaded suburban ER doctor who saves a child’s life during a drive-by shooting, killing one of the assailants in the process. It turns out, however, that the boy’s life has been marked and the doctor makes it his mission to protect him.
The second pilot to get the go is “The Novice,” about a recent college grad who, thanks to the sour economy, turns to a life of crime to support himself and his family. It was created by Joe and Tony Gayton (“Hell on Wheels”).
The final contender is “Rush.” It was created by Jonathan Levine (“Warm Bodies”) and is about a Hollywood doctor who makes discreet house calls to the rich and famous while also partying with the best of them. That’s until a former lover reappears and challenges the way he views his life.
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