Elton John has inked a deal with ABC and its sister production company Touchstone Television to develop a comedy series about a rock legend. John will executive-produce the still-untitled sitcom, which is expected to have its pilot episode completed by next year. [Editor’s note: an earlier version of this story incorrectly reported that John would star in the show.]
The production team also includes Bob Hawley, an associate of John’s who conceived the show’s concept. Hawley tells Billboard.com, “The story’s storylines will draw from over 30 years of Elton John’s experiences in the entertainment industry. I had brought this idea to Elton years ago and the time is right to do the show.”
John and his longtime songwriting partner Bernie Taupin wrote a new tune, “Him and Us,” to be used as the sitcom’s theme song. Hawley says there’s a great possibility that some of the artist’s famous friends will make cameos in the show.
Although John tours constantly and is appearing in his own Las Vegas show, “The Red Piano,” Hawley says he will make the necessary accommodations in his schedule to do the sitcom. “Elton is totally committed to this project,” he says.
As previously reported, John’s new album, “Peachtree Road,” is due Tuesday (Nov. 9) via Universal.