Chiklis
"The Shield" star Michael Chiklis is plotting a return to network television.
Chiklis has signed on to star in ABC's drama pilot "No Ordinary Family." He will also serve as a co-exec producer. As part of the casting, Chiklis has also sealed a development deal with ABC Studios to produce new fare. Deal reps a return to ABC for Chiklis, who spent four seasons there starring in "The Commish."
It's also a reunion with ABC Entertainment Group honcho Steve McPherson, who under a previous tenure at the Alphabet developed "The Commish." In addition, McPherson developed NBC's short-lived sitcom "Daddio," starring Chiklis, while at Touchstone TV.
"No Ordinary Family," from Greg Berlanti's ABC-based shingle and scribe Jon Harmon Feldman, centers on a family that suddenly develops special powers.
Also joining the drama is Dave Semel, who will direct the pilot and also serve as an exec producer.
The casting of Chiklis -- one of the most sought-after TV thesps -- immediately elevates "Family" among ABC pilots, insiders noted.
"The only thing better than watching Michael Chiklis act is getting to write for him," Berlanti said. "Our team is over the moon."
As for "No Ordinary Family," Berlanti, Harmon Feldman and Morgan Wandell are exec producers.
Contact Michael Schneider at
mike.schneider@variety.com