Channel 4 acquires ‘The New Normal‘ / Potential third series for ‘Homeland’ and ‘New Girl’

Channel 4 has acquired the UK premiere broadcast rights to ‘The New Normal‘ from Emmy Award winning hit-maker Ryan Murphy (American Horror Story, Glee, Nip/Tuck).

The New Normal, is a fresh new comedy about the “new normal” family starring Justin Bartha (The Hangover, The Hangover Part II), Andrew Rannells (star of Broadway sensation The Book of Mormon) and Ellen Barkin (The Big Easy).

Convinced that a baby is the one thing missing from their fabulous life, Beverly Hills couple Bryan (Andrew Rannells) and David (Justin Bartha) enlists the help of a surrogate in an effort to make their dream a reality. Enter Goldie (Georgia King), a Midwestern waitress and single mom looking to escape her dead-end life and small-minded grandmother (Ellen Barkin). With her 8-year-old daughter in tow, the beginnings of a family unit begin to form, which swiftly becomes the new normal.

Channel 4 has also extended its commitment to a potential third season of multi-award winning Twentieth Century Fox series, Homeland, starring Emmy Award winner Claire Danes (Temple Grandin), Damian Lewis (Stolen, Life), Emmy Award winner Mandy Patinkin (Criminal Minds) and David Harewood (Blood Diamond), as well as the hugely popular New Girl, starring Zooey Deschanel (500 Days of Summer). Both deal extensions are subject to each show receiving a third season order.

Gill Hay, Channel 4’s Head of Acquisitions commented: “Pacey, warm and inventive, we’re delighted to welcome fresh new comedy The New Normal to our very own E4 family alongside New Girl. And of course, we’re thrilled international smash hit Homeland will continue to premiere on C4, allowing UK audiences to enjoy the most talked about drama of the year.”

Steve Cornish, SVP and Managing Director, Twentieth Century Fox Television Distribution added: “The New Normal is a unique and hilarious comedy which is a perfect fit for the E4 audience. In addition we have seen tremendous success with both Homeland and New Girl and are excited to continue the partnership with C4 and E4 on these series.”