ABC has officially announced the series order for “RJ Decker,” based on Carl Hiaasen’s novel “Double Whammy.” The series is slated for the 2025-2026 television season.
Initially commissioned as a pilot in May, the project saw Scott Speedman stepping into the lead role in June. The cast also includes Kevin Rankin as Aloysius “Wish” Aiken, Adelaide Clemens as Catherine Delacroix, and Bevin Bru playing Melody “Mel” Romero. Notably, the role of Shay Bennett, originally cast with Weruche Opia, will be recast for the upcoming series format.
As outlined in the official logline:
“RJ Decker (Speedman) is a disgraced newspaper photographer and ex-con who embarks on a new journey as a private investigator in the vibrant yet crime-ridden landscape of South Florida. The series will follow his adventures tackling cases that range from mildly quirky to utterly strange, aided by his journalist ex and her police detective spouse, while navigating a mysterious benefactor from his past who could either be a crucial ally or a potential ticket back to prison…”
Rob Doherty is adapting the novel for television and serves as an executive producer alongside Hiaasen, Carl Beverly, and Sarah Timberman. Paul McGuigan, who directed the pilot, also joins as an executive producer. Speedman is not just the lead actor but also takes on producing duties. The series is produced by 20th Television.
This adaptation represents the latest in a series of attempts to bring Hiaasen’s works to the small screen. On Apple TV+, the show “Bad Monkey,” features Vince Vaughn and is based on Hiaasen’s similarly titled novel. Currently in production for its second season, there are also plans in development for Hiaasen’s novel “Skinny Dip” at HBO Max, led by Bill Lawrence, along with Adam Horowitz and Edward Kitsis.
As ABC approaches the new broadcast season, the network has reduced its lineup of scripted programming, revealing only six shows for the fall. This includes “High Potential,” “9-1-1,” the new series “9-1-1: Nashville,” along with staples “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Abbott Elementary,” and “Shifting Gears.” Additionally, dramas “Will Trent” and “The Rookie” are set to premiere midseason, accompanied by a revival of “Scrubs.”
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