With pilot deals falling into place and the hunt for topline cast members underway, several recognizable TV faces are emerging as the season’s “in-demand” talent.
Leading the way on the male side are “Friday Night Lights” star Kyle Chandler and “Brotherhood”‘s Jason Isaacs. According to Deadline, each is currently mulling at least a half dozen offersn for next year’s television season.
James Spader, Daniel Sunjata and Jason Bateman are also coveted.
On the female side, “Ugly Betty” alum Becki Newton is again leading the way. Newton, who was sought after last year for her combination of looks and comedic timing, ended up signing on with NBC’s “Love Bites.” Due to several issues, the launch was postponed and the episode order later cut, and the prospects look increasingly bleak. While any pilot deal would have to be second position to the NBC anthology series, Newton can at least field offers (“Love Bites” co-star Greg Grunberg has already accepted a new pilot deal).
Other female prospects include Christina Applegate, Debra Messing, Ali Larter, Lizzy Caplan and Katee Sackhoff.
Beyond television names, some accomplished film actors are also on the table. Ethan Hawke has already accepted a deal for FOX’s “Exit Strategy,” while Deadline reports that offers are also being extended to Maria Bello, Susan Sarandon, Kim Basinger, Ryan Phillippe and Kerry Washington. Naomi Watts and Julianne Moore have been coming up in discussions as well.
Of COURSE Daniel Sunjata is on the menu!! He ‘s on his way to being a mega movie star so it makes sense that the small screen would want to gobble him up. His looks, acting chops, charisma, and ethnic crossover appeal are a coveted and unusual combination. Someone should wise up and cast him in a lead film role. Only a matter of time.