What's Happening?
NBC has announced the greenlighting of a new drama pilot titled 'Protection', created by Josh Safran, known for his work on 'Quantico'. The project is a collaboration with Jenna Bush Hager, co-host of 'Today with Jenna & Sheinelle', and Universal Television. 'Protection' follows the story of a U.S. Marshal's family who becomes embroiled in a deadly conspiracy after a member falls in the line of duty. The family, consisting of law enforcement agents, must navigate personal and professional challenges to uncover the truth and protect each other. This pilot is part of NBC's broader strategy to order several drama and comedy pilots during the traditional January-May pilot season. Jenna Bush Hager, who has a first-look deal with Universal Studio
Group, is making her first significant entry into scripted television with this project.
Why It's Important?
The development of 'Protection' signifies NBC's commitment to expanding its drama offerings and exploring new narratives in the television landscape. By involving Jenna Bush Hager, the network taps into her established audience from her role on 'Today', potentially attracting viewers who are interested in her transition to scripted television. This move also highlights the trend of networks investing in high-stakes drama series that blend personal and professional storylines, appealing to audiences seeking complex narratives. Additionally, the involvement of Josh Safran, a seasoned creator, adds credibility and anticipation for the series, given his successful track record with shows like 'Quantico'. The pilot's approval is part of NBC's strategy to maintain a competitive edge in the evolving television industry by diversifying its content portfolio.
What's Next?
As NBC moves forward with 'Protection', the next steps will likely involve casting key roles and beginning production. The network's decision to greenlight multiple pilots suggests a strategic push to evaluate which projects resonate best with test audiences and align with their programming goals. If 'Protection' progresses beyond the pilot stage, it could lead to a full series order, contributing to NBC's lineup for the upcoming television season. The involvement of Jenna Bush Hager may also lead to increased media attention and promotional efforts, leveraging her public profile to generate interest. Additionally, the success of this pilot could pave the way for more collaborations between networks and high-profile personalities transitioning into new media roles.
