ABC sets Aisha Tyler talk show
Sources say pilot is bound for syndication, cable
By Nellie Andreeva
May 7, 2009, 11:00 PM ET
Aisha Tyler has been tapped to host a talk show pilot for ABC.
"The Aisha Tyler Show" is described as a hybrid that will incorporate
aspects of a traditional talk show with comedic political commentary,
produced comedy segments and other elements usually associated with
late-night shows. Aimed at a younger audience, "Tyler" is being developed as
a fully "wired" concept, with fans being able to communicate with Tyler via
Facebook, Twitter and other platforms.
The pilot is being produced by ABC Media Prods. (formerly Buena Vista TV),
which develops and produces nonscripted original programming for syndication
and cable.
There has been speculation that the project might be eyed for ABC's
afternoon block, which airs the soaps "All My Children," "One Life to Live"
and "General Hospital." (CBS recently canceled its long-running soap
"Guiding Light" and will replace it with a game or talk show).
But ABC sources stressed that "Tyler" is being targeted strictly for
syndication or cable.
The pilot, slated to begin production shortly, is being executive produced
by ROAR.
Tyler recently appeared in the feature "Bedtime Stories" and on her recent
Comedy Central special "Aisha Tyler Is Lit: Live at the Fillmore." The
actress-comedian, who is completing a U.S. stand-up tour, next will write,
direct and star in a series of webisodes for Will Ferrell and Adam McKay's
FunnyOrDie.com. She is repped by ICM and ROAR.
