Showtime Adds Robbins, Spielberg to Lineup

Eclectic cable channel Showtime recently inked a deal to bring two well-known names to its lineup- actor Tim Robbins and director Steven Spielberg.

Robbins will write and direct the pilot of "Possible Side Effects," an hour-long drama about an off-kilter family running a pharmaceutical company. The actor, best known for his turns in "Mystic River" and "The Shawshank Redemption," has previous experience writing and directing on several films as well, including "Dead Man Walking." According to Entertainment Weekly, the show is designed to focus on relationships within the family, while also giving an insider view into the pharmaceutical industry.

Heavy hitter Steven Spielberg also recently joined the Showtime family with a new pilot called "The United States of Tara." The comedy revolves around a mother with multiple-personality disorder. Judging by Spielberg's track record, it should be interesting. (Just ignore his other foray into television, "On the Lot," which tanked.)

The Hollywood Reporter says Showtime is considering ordering further new programs as well. The network has generated plenty of positive feedback recently, with shows like "Dexter," about a serial killer who only kills bad guys, breaking the network's ratings record for a season premiere (1 million viewers). --Chris Sardelli

Photo: © 2006 Focus Features/Garth Stead

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Posted by Chris on October 9, 2007 1:54 AM
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