Broadway Veteran Skylar Astin to Lead NBA Comedy Pilot for ABC

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Broadway veteran Skylar Astin has landed a lead role in ABC's upcoming NBC comedy pilot. David Windsor and Casey Johnson are set to write the pilot's script.

The untitled comedy, "set in the world of the NBA and centers on a rookie who doesn't speak English and a translator who doesn't speak basketball."

Per THR:

"Astin - who was fielding multiple pilot offers this season - will star as Jason, a sweet and slightly wimpy guy who was previously with the Peace Corps. A bit of a loser with no athletic prowess whatsoever,? Jason works as a teaching assistant and, while living in his ?parents' basement, is tapped by the GM of an NBA team to be the translator for Mo, a new recruit from Botswana. A munchkin among giants in the world of professional basketball, Jason soon discovers that he's being paid to be a lot more than just a translator. He also has to be the new player's 24/7 guide/best friend/mentor and protector - and find a way to light a fire under this incredibly tall and talented athlete who seems to lack any drive."

Astin's recent TBS comedy, GROUND FLOOR, was cancelled last week after two seasons. His breakout role came in PITCH PERFECT, following a star turn in SPRING AWAKENING on Broadway and RENT at the Hollywood Bowl. He's also appeared in the films WRECK-IT RALPH, 21 AND OVER and more.

Photo by Walter McBride