According to The Wrap, Pitch Perfect alum Skylar Astin has signed on to join Jane Levy (Suburgatory) in NBC‘s upcoming musical comedy-drama titled Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist. In addition, Glee‘s Alex Newell has also been cast in the pilot.
Astin is set to portray the role of Max, who is described as “funny, charming, self-deprecating, wannabe ladies man with a sexy-nerd, indie vibe.” He is also Zoey’s best friend and co-worker. Meanwhile, Newell will be playing the character of Zoey’s easygoing and cool neighbor Mo.
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Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist follows the story of a whip-smart but socially awkward girl in her late 20’s, Zoey (Levy) who is suddenly able to hear the innermost thoughts of people around her as songs and even big musical numbers that they perform just for her. With this new ability at her disposal, she is able to use her “gift” to not only help herself understand people in her life, but also to help others around her.
Written by Austin Winsberg, the pilot will be directed by Richard Shepard. It will be co-produce by Universal Music Group and Lionsgate TV. Emmy Award nominee Paul Feig was supposed to be the director but due to conflicting schedules, he withdrew from the show’s directorial duties. However, Feig will still be involved in the pilot as the series’ executive producer through his FeigCo banner along with creator Austin Winsberg, David Blackman, Daniel Inkeles, Jason Wang, Eric and Kim Tannenbaum.
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Levy is best known for her role as Tessa Altman in ABC’s sitcom Suburgatory. She recently starred in Hulu’s horror anthology adaptation of Stephen King’s Castle Rock starring alongside Sissy Spacek, Bill Skarsgård, and André Holland.
(Photo credit: Getty Images)
