New series for US network

Steve Carell’s documentary series about some of the biggest stars in US comedy has found an American broadcaster.

The series, called Laughing Stock, features interviews with comics across the generations, including Carl Reiner, Mel Brooks, Lily Tomlin, Jerry Seinfeld, Ellen DeGeneres, Judd Apatow, Robin Williams, Sarah Silverman, Chris Rock and Tina Fey.

Premium cable network Showtime has now signed up to take the show – which it will air in January – which may pave the was for a British broadcaster to pick it up.

Carrel’s production company Carousel is making the show, which aims to chronicle 60 years of US comedy. Fellow comedian David Steinberg co-created the series, and will conduct the interviews.

Carrel has previously said: ‘We're honored that so many legendary comedic performers have chosen to be part of this.’

Laughing Stock go out in the States at 10pm on Sunday nights, between Shameless and Californication. Showtime has already has success with comedian talk show The Green Room with Paul Provenza, which aims to capture the backstage atmosphere of a comedy club.

Published: 5 Aug 2011