NBC appoints veteran sitcom writer-producer Bruce Helford as the new showrunner of its freshman comedy “Newlyweds,” according to multiple reports. He replaces Gail Lerner, the series co-creator and previously announced showrunner, who exits the project following her firing amid reported creative differences.
Lerner co-created “Newlyweds” with actress Jamie Lee Curtis. Outlets also note that the series is in a previously scheduled short hiatus, with one report saying the production pause is extended. The change places Helford, best known for work on “The Conners,” in charge of day-to-day creative leadership for the NBC multi-camera comedy as it continues into production.
While coverage focuses on the staffing transition and the reasons cited for Lerner’s departure, the reporting is consistent on Helford’s hiring and on the fact that “Newlyweds” is tied to Curtis and is currently moving through a production break.
