Eddie Murphy is set to take on a new television role, joining forces with Mad Men creator Matthew Weiner for The Chairman, a new drama series currently in development at Peacock.
The project marks a significant move for Murphy, who has spent much of his career starring in blockbuster films and comedy specials. If the series moves forward, it will represent his first leading role in a live-action scripted television series.
While details surrounding The Chairman remain under wraps, Murphy is attached to star in and produce the project alongside Weiner, who will create the series. The show is being developed by Universal Television and 101 Studios, the production company behind Yellowstone.
The series will also be the first project to emerge from former Paramount executive Chris McCarthy’s consulting arrangement with NBCUniversal, which involves its relationship with 101 Studios.
Murphy first rose to prominence as a cast member on Saturday Night Live, appearing on the iconic sketch comedy series from 1980 to 1984. He subsequently established himself as one of Hollywood’s biggest comedy stars, with an extensive filmography that includes Beverly Hills Cop, Coming to America, The Nutty Professor, Dr. Dolittle and Dolemite Is My Name.
Although Murphy has largely concentrated on film throughout his career, he previously co-created and voiced characters in the animated television series The PJs. His potential return to live-action television with The Chairman represents a new chapter for the actor.
Behind the scenes, Weiner brings considerable television experience to the project. He is best known for creating Mad Men, the acclaimed AMC drama that ran for seven seasons between 2007 and 2015. The series earned widespread recognition for its storytelling and performances, establishing Weiner as one of television’s prominent creative talents.
Weiner also worked as a writer and executive producer on The Sopranos before going on to create the Amazon anthology series The Romanoffs in 2018.
With Murphy and Weiner collaborating on the new drama, The Chairman brings together two established names from film and television. However, with the project still in development, its storyline, supporting cast and potential release date have yet to be announced.
For now, audiences will have to wait for further details about Murphy’s next television venture and what the creative partnership has in store.
