Elizabeth Banks and Max Handelman’s Brownstone Productions have signed a first-look deal with Universal Television (UTV), marking a significant shift from their previous arrangement with Warner Bros. Television. This exclusive news, reported by Variety, sets the stage for Brownstone to develop and produce television series across all platforms under the UTV banner.
The deal includes some strategic promotions within Brownstone Productions. Anna Hughes has been elevated to the role of vice president, while Kristen Spence takes on the position of creative executive. Both will report to Krissy Wall, the head of television at Brownstone, with Alison Small leading the film division.
“Brownstone Productions first emerged from the primordial swamps of Universal Pictures,” Banks commented. “It’s only natural that our next evolutionary leap happens with Universal Television. We’re thrilled to continue growing with such a stellar team and deeply grateful to Donna, Pearlena, and Erin for their support. We’ll do our best to make them proud—and hopefully cause just the right amount of chaotic joy along the way.”
New Projects on the Horizon
Currently, Brownstone has two exciting projects in development with UTV for the streaming service Peacock. The first is a comedy titled “Pitch Perfect: K-Pop Idols,” penned by writer Joel Kim Booster. The show promises to deliver a unique twist on the beloved franchise by following a struggling singer-songwriter who unexpectedly auditions for an all-American K-pop group.
This project represents the latest expansion of the “Pitch Perfect” universe, a franchise that Banks and Handelman have been instrumental in shaping. Peacock has previously aired “Pitch Perfect: Bumper in Berlin,” featuring Adam Devine reprising his film role.
Banks and Handelman will serve as executive producers for “Pitch Perfect: K-Pop Idols,” alongside Paul Brooks and Scott Niemeyer of Gold Circle Films. Jason Moore, who directed the original “Pitch Perfect” film, will also direct and executive produce the new series.
Exploring New Narratives
Beyond the “Pitch Perfect” franchise, Brownstone is also developing “Crush,” a series inspired by a 1995 episode of “The Jenny Jones Show” that dealt with same-sex secret crushes. Written and executive produced by Addison McQuigg, the series is set in the sensational world of tabloid talk shows, weaving a tale of ambition, heartbreak, and murder.
Banks and Handelman will again take on executive producer roles, joined by Patrick Macmanus, Elliot Page, and others. The series is a co-production between UTV and UCP.
Continuing a Legacy with NBCUniversal
Erin Underhill, president of UTV, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership: “Elizabeth is a singular creative force whose storytelling shines both in front and behind the camera. She, Max, and the Brownstone team have been part of the NBCUniversal family for years, and we’re excited to make Universal Television their creative home for series, where they can develop fresh, compelling shows and continue doing what they do best—entertaining fans everywhere.”
Brownstone’s history with NBCUniversal is extensive, including a first-look deal with Universal Pictures. The “Pitch Perfect” movies, all produced by Universal Pictures, have collectively grossed over $1 billion worldwide. Banks also directed and produced the film “Cocaine Bear” for the studio and is set to appear in the upcoming Peacock series “The Miniature Wife” alongside Matthew Macfadyen.
Banks and Brownstone Productions are represented by UTA, Untitled Entertainment, and Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole, ensuring that their creative endeavors continue to thrive under expert guidance.
“The ‘Pitch Perfect’ franchise has grossed over $1 billion at the global box office.” – By the Numbers
As Brownstone Productions embarks on this new chapter with UTV, fans can look forward to a blend of innovative storytelling and beloved franchises, promising a future filled with both familiar harmonies and fresh narratives.
