Ben Stiller and Mike Judge are teaming up to create a new comedy series for Apple TV, according to Variety.
The series, tentatively titled “Protective Custody,” will feature Stiller as a disgraced financier accused of extensive fraud. The character finds himself in protective custody, where he must navigate the complex dynamics of prison, work to restore his reputation, and face the repercussions of his actions while awaiting trial, as stated in the official description.
Mike Judge, known for “Silicon Valley” and “King of the Hill,” is co-writing the series with Steve Hely, recognized for projects like “Common Side Effects,” “Veep,” and “The Office,” and Dave King, known for “Parks and Recreation” and “English Teacher.” All three are serving as executive producers and co-showrunners. Judge will also direct the series. Ben Stiller is set to executive produce and star through his company, Red Hour. John Lesher of Red Hour, Ben Silverman, Howard Owens, and Rodney Ferrell from Propagate Content will also be executive producers. Additionally, Michael Rotenberg and Oly Obst are executive producers for 3 Arts Entertainment, alongside Nanette Burstein.
If “Protective Custody” progresses to a full series, it will mark Stiller’s second starring role in an Apple TV production. He is also slated to appear in “The Off Weeks” for the streaming platform. Stiller is an executive producer for the successful series “Severance,” which is gearing up for its second season. His other projects include the documentary “Stiller & Meara: Nothing is Lost” and the upcoming comedy film “The Dink.”
Judge, Hely, and King are currently working together on the Adult Swim series “Common Side Effects,” which aired its first season in 2025 and is now preparing for its second season.
Stiller is represented by WME, ID, and Sloane Offer. Judge is represented by WME, 3 Arts Entertainment, and Morris Yorn. King is represented by 3 Arts Entertainment and Ginsburg Daniels Kallis. Hely is represented by WME, 3 Arts Entertainment, and Ginsburg Daniels Kallis.
