Suck This, NBC: Dan Harmon Is Back, And He’s Going to Fox

If the people at NBC actually had feelings, this would have to be their worst nightmare. The day after NBC announced that they are foregoing “niche” and “sophisticated” television programming in favor of more “broad comedies,” Fox has hired the poster boy for NBC’s “sophisticated, niche” programming. Dan Harmon, a free agent since being sh*tcanned by NBC, is close to making a deal with Fox to write a comedy pilot for Fox, according TV Guide. While there are no details yet on the show, it’s known to be a multi-camera pilot.

As you might recall, in an interview with Marc Maron a few weeks ago, Harmon expressed an interest not only in doing a multi-camera pilot, but in making a show that would appeal to a bigger audience. “Television is a populous, derivative, democratic medium,” he said. “You’re supposed to make a hamburger that everyone wants in their mouth, that’s when you know you’re doing it well.” He also vowed to make “a better hamburger.” He’ll be making it for Fox.

The nice thing about going to Fox is that the network is the top-rated one in the 18-49 demo, and the network has a reputation for more experimental programming (also, a reputation for quickly canceling experimental programming. Bygones.). But, I like to think that the Fox execs are pissy little drama queens (think cast of Glee!) who would love nothing more than to win by using the same tools with which NBC failed. That way, Fox can say: “It’s not Dan Harmon. It’s you! Fox rules, NBC drools! Suck it, Greenblatt!”

It helps, too, that Fox is expanding their comedy offerings. They’re building around The New Girl, by adding The Mindy Projec” and Ben and Kate to their block. Plus, Fox has something that NBC doesn’t: A high-rated show (American Idol) to launch a new comedy. The best platform with which to launch a new comedy that NBC has is, er, The Biggest Loser.

In the meantime, I can’t wait to see how Dan Harmon manages to subvert the multi-camera format. If Community gets yanked, as expected, after its first 13 episodes on NBC, Harmon could also poach some of his old cast members and staff.

Coincidentally or not, Dan Harmon tweeted this two days ago: “I give the worst people the most power over me.” IS HE STARTING SH*T ALREADY?

Good for you, Dan. Any way you look at it, Fox sure beats the hell out of working food service again.

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