Thursday, October 29, 2009

Syfy Picks Up "Being Human" for U.S. Remake

The misfits from the popular British series "Being Human" are about to face another challenge: being American.

Syfy has handed out a 13-episode order to a U.S. version of the BBC show from RDF Media USA.

The comedy-drama revolves around three twenty something roommates, who happen to be a ghost, a vampire and a werewolf, as they help one another navigate the complexities of living double lives.

The original series, produced by RDF subsidiary Touchpaper TV, had an initial six-episode run on digital channel BBC Three. It was so successful that the show got a second window on mothership BBC One. It's slated to return in early 2010 for an eight-episode second season.

Syfy's deal for a U.S. take on the show marks the first scripted series order for the cable network since its rebranding this past summer to attract a broader audience. It also marks the first scripted series order for RDF Media USA.

The search is on for a writer to adapt the show. Syfy is targeting a launch in summer or fall 2010 and eyeing the series as a potential companion piece to breakout hit "Sanctuary," which deals with similar subject matter.

Syfy president Dave Howe stressed that the aim is not to "slavishly replicate the British version." Some of the network's core audience might already be familiar with the original series, which runs in the U.S. on BBC America.

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