"Bookie" Executive Producer Chuck Lorre Talks About His Future in Broadcast TV and New Projects
Chuck Lorre, the executive producer of the new Max comedy "Bookie," joins a podcast to discuss his future in broadcast TV and his upcoming projects. Lorre talks about ending his remaining CBS comedies, Young Sheldon and Bob Hearts Abishola, and his thoughts on the changing economics of doing broadcast TV. He also mentions that he is pitching some new shows for broadcast networks and talks about the challenges of financing television shows in the post-Peak TV landscape. Lorre also discusses the inspiration behind "Bookie" and his decision to cast Charlie Sheen in the show, despite their troubled past. He also sheds light on his next project, a new spinoff of The Big Bang Theory, and whether it will be for Max or CBS.
Chuck Lorre's Future in Broadcast TV
Chuck Lorre discusses the end of his remaining CBS comedies, Young Sheldon and Bob Hearts Abishola, and shares his thoughts on his future in the broadcast TV industry. Lorre expresses his love for the medium and his desire to continue creating ensemble comedies.
He also acknowledges that the economics of doing broadcast TV have changed, but insists that he focuses on telling good stories rather than worrying about the financial aspects. Lorre believes that storytelling should be driven by the worth of the story, not just the potential financial gain.
Despite the changes in the industry, Lorre remains optimistic about his future in broadcast and mentions that he is currently pitching new shows designed specifically for broadcast networks.
The Inspiration Behind "Bookie" and the Casting of Charlie Sheen
Lorre explains that "Bookie," his new comedy for Max, is a departure from his previous work. He wanted to explore the world of dark comedy and tell a story set in the gray zone. Lorre wanted to create a character who is struggling to survive in a criminal netherworld, and the idea of a bookie running a gambling operation became the basis for the show.
In an unexpected turn, Lorre decided to cast Charlie Sheen in the series, despite their troubled history. He reflects on the healing process and the opportunity to put the past behind them. Lorre and Sheen buried the hatchet and collaborated on the show, showcasing their professional growth and the comedy of Sheen's journey.
Lorre also talks about the significance of casting Sheen, a former sports gambler, in a show about sports gambling. He believes that Sheen brought authenticity and depth to the character, making the role a perfect fit.
Lorre's Next Project and the Changing Landscape of TV
Lorre teases his next project, a spinoff of The Big Bang Theory, but reveals that nothing has been set in stone yet. He emphasizes that he is not a fan of spinoffs unless they feel fresh and different from the original show. Lorre's main goal is to create something new and funny.
He also shares his thoughts on the changing landscape of television, particularly how technology and streaming services have impacted the industry. Lorre acknowledges the challenges of financing TV shows in the post-Peak TV era and the uncertainty surrounding the future of syndication. However, he remains hopeful that focusing on creating great shows will ultimately lead to success.
Lorre reflects on his decades-long career in television and expresses his excitement for exploring new ideas and characters. Despite the rapid changes in the industry, he remains passionate about storytelling and the power of television as a medium.
