Bob Odenkirk Prepares To Have A Mid-Life Crisis After ‘Better Call Saul’ Ends

As the showbiz adage goes, if AMC is making a TV series, then Better Call Bob. (We’re sorry. No, actually, we don’t…)

The network is home to Bob Odenkirk’s Emmy-nominated TV series Better to call Saulthe Break The spinoff will end this summer with a sixth season. Now, they are developing a new series led by Odenkirk.

Based on Diversityupcoming movie Straightforward Based on the novel of the same name by Richard Russo. Russo’s novel explores the complex internal politics of academia. Set at the fictional Railton University, an under-resourced university in the rust belt of Pennsylvania, the film revolves around the chairman of the English department as he struggles with a midlife crisis. Odenkirk is set to play the main character, named William Henry Devereaux Jr.

Straightforward is being adapted for television by Aaron Zelman and Paul Lieberstein. Zelman, who has worked as a writer and producer on Law & Order, Criminal Thinking, and Damages, and Lieberstein will also serve as co-presenters and executive producers. Lieberstein is also a television writer and producer, but fans will recognize him best as Toby Flenderson, Michael Scott’s arch-nemesis on TV. Office. Odenkirk is also executive producing.

AMC has invited acclaimed film director Peter Farrelly to direct the series. Farelly’s lengthy resume includes comedies like Dumb and Dumber, There’s something about Mary, and Dumb and Dumber To. His most recent famous project is the controversial Oscar winner Green Book.

“I love Paul and Aaron’s take on Richard’s brilliant, entertaining novel,” Odenkirk said in a statement. “Once again a project with AMC with a focus on depth and character sensibility. This (academic) milieu seems like a great fit for the conversations we’re all having. I was drawn to the human voice and humor in the novel and I was looking forward to playing the part – something lighter than my recent projects but still closely watched. and intelligent. ”

Straightforward is said to be on fast track for a 2023 release.