Fox is looking to Weezer frontman Rivers Cuomo for its next comedy.
The network has handed out a hefty put-pilot commitment to single-camera comedy DeTour, inspired by the life of the Weezer singer-songwriter, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.
Based on a pitch from Psych creator Steve Franks, DeTour is described as a coming-of-age story that's slightly out of sequence. Ittells the story of a 30-something rock star who, unable to rationalize his success and worried that he may not have the tools to repeat it, walks away from the spotlight at the height of his fame in an effort to rediscover the parts of his life he missed while he was busy becoming a massive success.
Franks will pen the script and executive produce the comedy with Tagline Television's Chris Henze (Psych) and Willie Mercer. Cuomo and manager Dan Field are also on board to exec produce the comedy.
Weezer frontman/songwriter Cuomo had a more universal path to stardom. He opted to go to college and live in the dorms. He tried out for the school choir and didn't get in. He made friends and met his wife. DeTour would mirror and embellish his journey with a fictional character and the mall band of misfit friends that make it possible for them to get through their formative years. Cuomo took the sabbatical eight years ago to return to college at Harvard.
Weezer has sold nearly 20 million records. The band's first record, The Blue Album, marks its 20th anniversary this year, with the group's next studio album due Oct. 7 with a tour and music festival to follow.
For his part, Franks created USA Network's Psych, which ended its 122 episode-run earlier this year after taking home the People's Choice Award for favorite cable TV comedy.
Semi-autobiographical fare continues to be a hot property this development season as broadcast networks look for passion projects that hit close to home and come with a unique voice attached.
Cuomo is repped by WME; Franks is with ICM Partners and Thruline Entertainment.
Email: Lesley.Goldberg@THR.com
Twitter: @Snoodit
