by The broadcast networks (and some cable networks) make their upfront presentations to the media and advertisers next week in New York City, and with NBC up first on Monday, the Peacock network now owned by Comcast has gone ahead and gone deep into new sitcoms, ordering six pilots to series.
And five of the six new sitcoms on the Fall 2011 schedule feature stand-up comedians and/or players from the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatres.
How many comedians have new jobs in the NBC primetime lineup? Let's count 'em!
Whitney: Based on the comedy of Whitney Cummings (1), co-starring Chris D'Elia (2)
Up All Night: Starring Christina Applegate, with Will Arnett, Maya Rudolph and James Pumphrey (3)
Are You There Vodka, It's Me Chelsea?: Based on one of Chelsea Handler's books, starring Laura Prepon, with a cast that includes Handler (4), Jo Koy (5), Lauren Lapkus (6) and Lenny Clarke (7)
BFFs (Best Friends Forever): Starring Lennon Parham (8) and Jessica St. Clair (9)
Free Agents: Top-lined by Hank Azaria, with Al Madrigal (10), Mo Mandel (11), Natasha Leggero (12) and Joe Lo Truglio
There's also Bent: Cast includes Amanda Peet, David Walton, Jeffrey Tambor, Joey King and Margo Harshman
They'll join NBC's already-renewed sitcoms which are friendly to stand-ups and the UCB in Community, Parks and Recreation, The Office and 30 Rock.
