Frasier’s David Hyde Pierce returns to NBC—he co‑produces a new sitcom

The former *Frasier* star is back in the sitcom arena as he and veteran writer‑producer Marco Pennette executive produce an untitled multi‑camera comedy that is now in development for NBC. The project is being developed by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studios Group.

Pierce will play a man who discovers that living without examination can literally bite you in the butt. The pair—both credited as executive producers—have teamed up after Pennette’s past success co‑creating *Caroline In the City*, which aired on NBC alongside *Frasier* for four seasons.

The show joins a slate of multi‑camera comedies on NBC headed by sitcom veterans, including *Happy’s Place* with Reba McEntire and the forthcoming *Newlyweds* starring Tim Daly and Téa Leoni.

## Background & Context

David Hyde Pierce is best known for his portrayal of Dr. Niles Crane on *Frasier*, a role that earned him 11 Emmy nominations and four wins over 11 seasons on NBC. After the show’s conclusion, Pierce shifted focus to stage work but recently returned to television with an appearance on HBO Max’s *Julia*.

He is also slated to appear in the film *Mouse*, which premiered at the 2026 Berlin Film Festival, and *Vivien & the Florist* opposite Carla Gugino and Matthew Modine. Pierce is represented by WME.

Marco Pennette brings a rich sitcom pedigree to the project. He co‑created *Caroline In the City* and has written or co‑created a number of other comedies, including *Conrad Bloom*, *All About the Andersons*, *I’m with Her*, *Crumbs*, *Kirstie*, and the 2020 CBS sitcom *B Positive* (executive produced by Chuck Lorre).

Pennette’s work also spans ABC’s *Desperate Housewives* and *Ugly Betty* as well as CBS’s *Mom*. Like Pierce, Pennette is represented by WME.

The untitled series is being produced under Universal Television and will be part of NBC’s current strategy to bolster its multi‑camera comedy lineup. NBC already has a strong presence in this format with hits like *Happy’s Place* and the upcoming *Newlyweds*, and the new show is positioned to add a seasoned comedic talent to that roster.

## What People Are Saying

The announcement has generated excitement among fans of both Pierce and Pennette. Observers note that Pierce, after a long hiatus from television sitcoms, is returning to a familiar format with a fresh premise.

The partnership of Pierce and Pennette—both well‑versed in multi‑camera comedy—has been described as a promising blend of seasoned humor and new storytelling angles.

While the project remains untitled, industry chatter suggests that the series could explore themes of routine and personal growth in a comedic setting.

Critics have pointed out that the concept allows Pierce to showcase his sharp timing while tapping into a narrative about self‑reflection, something that has resonated with audiences in his past work.

## What Happens Next

The series is currently in development, with no official premiere date announced. It is expected to join NBC’s fall schedule among other multi‑camera offerings, though details such as episode count, writers’ room composition, and production timeline are still under wraps.

The show’s placement within NBC’s programming slate will likely be revealed closer to a formal green light or pilot order.

Both Pierce and Pennette continue to be active in the industry: Pierce’s upcoming film projects and Pennette’s ongoing involvement in other television series may influence the production schedule.

Universal Television’s backing provides a solid foundation for moving forward, but the project’s future will depend on network approval and scheduling logistics.

In the meantime, fans can anticipate more updates as NBC moves from development to production. The partnership between Pierce and Pennette promises a return to classic sitcom sensibilities while offering a fresh comedic perspective.