Emmy-winning Modern Family star Ty Burrell has signed an overall deal with 20th Century Fox TV, the studio behind the acclaimed comedy series. Under the pact, Burrell will co-create and write comedy projects as well as develop shows from other writers. The deal is strictly for writing and producing as he continues to be exclusive to Modern Family for acting.
Two years ago, Burrell teamed with his younger brother Duncan to write a single-camera comedy based on their childhood for 20th TV. In a competitive situation, the project sold to ABC with penalty. “Although it didn’t ultimately go to pilot, it was quite special — very specific and unusual,” said 20th TV President of Creative Affairs Jonnie Davis. “This deal is about deepening our relationship with this deservedly award-winning actor and tapping into a comedic community we want to access.”
That community includes friends of Burrell’s from his comedy improv days. “Someday I’d like to grow up to be a writer-producer full time,” he said. “So I’m thrilled to be in business with Fox and to be writing and looking for material with my old pals, and UCB members, Johnny Meeks, Joel Spence and Mel Cowan, as well as my brother, Duncan Burrell. Aside from my brother, they’re all just so gorgeous.”
Burrell is the second Modern Family cast member to embark on producing with 20th TV. Fellow Emmy winner Eric Stonestreet recently sold a truck stop comedy to ABC.
Burrell, repped by ICM and attorney J. Franklin Stewart, is onscreen in the indie hit Skeleton Twins and next voices a character in Disney’s Finding Dory.
Must Read Stories
Subscribe to Deadline Breaking News Alerts and keep your inbox happy.