With spinoff return rumours circulating, the Big Bang Theory star joins HBO comedy from Hacks producers.
The Big Bang Theory star Kaley Cuoco has boarded a new HBO comedy series from the creators of Hacks amidst speculation about her return as Penny.
New details on the long-gestating Big Bang Theory spinoff recently emerged, confirming that Kevin Sussman, Brian Posehn, and Lauren Lapkus would reprise their respective roles as Stuart, Bert, and Denise.
The spinoff, from franchise co-creator Chuck Lorre, is intended for the Max streaming service. Though the project is still in its early stages, Cuoco has expressed an openness to appear.
Deadline confirms that HBO has won the bidding for the Kansas City Star. Led by Cuoco, who also executive produces, the half-hour show is described as a “comedy with heart.”
The story centers on a semi-famous actress who returns to her hometown to work with a regional theater troupe.
Kansas City Star hails from Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky, the trio behind the Emmy-winning Max comedy Hacks.
The comedy is produced by Warner Bros. Television, in addition to Cuoco’s production company, Yes, Norman.
HBO is stepping up its focus on comedies.
Kansas City Star is the latest high-profile project coming from the network, the fourth after shows from Rachel Sennott (Bottoms, Shiva Baby) and Tim Robinson (I Think You Should Leave).
There’s also a comedy in the works from Ted Lasso co-creator Bill Lawrence, which will star Steve Carell and Phil Dunster.
In terms of what it means for Cuoco, the three-time Emmy nominee could have two live-action comedies available at once, depending on what happens after Based on a True Story season 2 (which premieres November 21 on Peacock).
That’s in addition to her work on the acclaimed animated comedy Harley Quinn, voicing the titular character. It’s also a project that’s primed for success, given the positive reception of Hacks.
After recently saying that she “would reprise that role,” it remains to be seen if Cuoco will be back as Penny. But she’s had a solid run since the end of The Big Bang Theory, with The Flight Attendant season 1 becoming an early hit for Max and garnering nominations for the actor at the Emmys and Golden Globes.
Based on a True Story has also been buzzy for Peacock, and her latest outing has the right talent to keep up the good fortune.