Christmas Special ‘Greatest Gift’ Builds Team; Pre-MIPCOM Dealmaking Hots Up; ZDF Studios Extends Studio 100 Pact – Global Briefs

ABC has officially picked up the pilot 'RJ Decker' for a full series, set to premiere in midseason 2026. This exciting news comes from the creative mind of Rob Doherty, known for 'Elementary,' and is based on Carl Hiaasen's novel 'Double Whammy.' With Scott Speedman leading the cast, this show promises to bring engaging storytelling to viewers, making it a noteworthy addition to the upcoming television lineup.

Netflix is making waves by greenlighting 'Poser,' a new YA drama series from Lauren Iungerich, known for her work on 'On My Block.' This marks a significant milestone for Iungerich as it's her first hourlong drama and the first project she's solely created since her hit series 'Awkward.' With eight episodes, 'Poser' promises to delve into themes of toxicity, making it a timely addition to Netflix's diverse lineup. This move not only showcases Netflix's commitment to fresh storytelling but also highlights Iungerich's evolving career in the industry.

Sarah Sherman is making waves with her debut comedy special on HBO, titled 'Sarah Squirm: Live + In the Flesh,' set to premiere in December. Known for her bold and edgy humor on 'Saturday Night Live,' Sherman promises to deliver an hour filled with outrageous confessions and wild antics. This special is significant as it showcases her unique comedic voice and brings fresh content to the comedy scene, appealing to fans eager for innovative and daring performances.

The Newport Beach Film Festival is gearing up for an exciting 2025 edition, announcing its honorees including stars like Brendan Fraser, Mark Hamill, and Diane Lane. Scheduled for October 19 at the Balboa Bay Resort, this festival will showcase 100 feature films from around the globe from October 16 to 23. This event not only celebrates cinematic achievements but also brings together filmmakers and audiences, making it a significant cultural highlight in the community.

The Naked Gun is making a comeback as it sets its streaming date on Paramount+ for September 30 in the U.S. and Canada. This reboot features Liam Neeson in a role that promises to showcase his skills in a way fans have never seen before. The film is the fourth installment in the beloved franchise, and its arrival on streaming is exciting news for both longtime fans and new viewers. It's a great opportunity to revisit the humor and action of the classic '80s film.

Morgan Lehmann, an up-and-coming screenwriter, has successfully sold her pitch for a new WAGs comedy to United Artists, a division of Amazon MGM Studios. This project is generating excitement as it promises to deliver a female-driven sports comedy reminiscent of the beloved film Miss Congeniality. The significance of this sale lies not only in Lehmann's rising profile in Hollywood but also in the increasing demand for diverse and empowering narratives in the comedy genre.

Jeremy Allen White, known for his role in the upcoming biopic 'Deliver Me From Nowhere,' revealed that he didn't seek advice from fellow actors Timothée Chalamet, Austin Butler, or Rami Malek, who have all portrayed iconic musicians. While he acknowledges the weight of playing a rock legend like Bruce Springsteen, he sometimes wishes he had consulted them. This insight highlights the unique challenges actors face when stepping into the shoes of such legendary figures, making it a noteworthy discussion in the realm of biographical films.