Marking its third foray into the animation arena, TBS has closed a deal for a pilot script from comic actor David Spade, Sony Pictures Television and Happy Madison Productions for an animated version of the movie The Adventures of Joe Dirt. The project, entitled "Joe Dirt," will follow the exploits of a mullet-sporting, muscle-car-loving loser with a heart of gold.

"David Spade is a hugely popular comic talent who has created a funny, yet lovable, character in 'Joe Dirt,'" said Michael Wright, executive vice president, head of programming, for TBS, TNT and Turner Classic Movies (TCM). "We look forward to seeing how he and his fellow writers and producers take this character in new directions as TBS continues exploring the world of primetime animation."

The pilot script for "Joe Dirt" will be written by Spade; Fred Wolf, Spade's frequent writing partner, including scripts for The Adventures of Joe Dirt and Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star; and Donick Cary ("The Simpsons," "Lil' Bush," "Bored to Death"). All three will serve as executive producers, along with Doug Robinson of Happy Madison Productions.