Scott Prendergast Returns With New Procedural Drama ‘Pennies’ on Fox
Fans of So Help Me Todd, the quirky legal procedural that won hearts on CBS before its untimely cancellation, have reason to celebrate. Series creator Scott Prendergast is set to bring his signature blend of humor and drama to a new project titled Pennies. The series has been picked up by Fox with a script commitment plus penalty, signaling strong confidence in the show’s potential.
Pennies promises a fresh take on the procedural genre, putting family dynamics at the forefront while delving into the world of forensic science and law. Here’s everything we know so far about this exciting new series.
The Premise: A Tale of Two Pennies
At its core, Pennies revolves around two sisters, both named Penny, who couldn’t be more different in personality but are united by a shared mission to solve mysteries.
- The Reclusive Penny: A forensic pathologist with a penchant for solving puzzles, Penny is more comfortable with the deceased in her San Francisco morgue than with the living. Her expertise and attention to detail make her an invaluable asset in uncovering hidden truths behind mysterious deaths.
- The Extroverted Penny: The other Penny is her polar opposite — a confident and outgoing attorney working in the District Attorney’s office. Her boldness and charisma complement her sister’s meticulous nature, creating a dynamic partnership.
Together, the sisters tackle complex cases that blend forensic intrigue with legal drama, all while navigating their own sibling rivalry and emotional baggage.
What Sets Pennies Apart
Prendergast is known for his ability to inject heart and humor into procedural formats, as seen in So Help Me Todd. With Pennies, he brings another layered narrative that explores not just crime-solving but also family dynamics.
1. Unique Protagonists
The concept of two sisters with the same name and drastically different personalities immediately sets Pennies apart. Their contrasting approaches to life and work create opportunities for humor, conflict, and heartfelt moments.
2. San Francisco Setting
The bustling, diverse city of San Francisco provides a rich backdrop for the series, offering visually compelling locations and a wide array of cases rooted in the city’s culture and history.
3. Light Procedural Format
Pennies will likely follow the light procedural tone of So Help Me Todd, focusing on character-driven storytelling while delivering engaging, self-contained mysteries in each episode.
The Creative Team Behind Pennies
Scott Prendergast leads the charge as the series’ creator and writer. Known for his work on So Help Me Todd and the FX comedy Wilfred, Prendergast has proven his ability to craft unique, memorable characters and engaging narratives.
He is joined by:
- Aaron Kaplan: A prolific producer behind Kapital Entertainment, Kaplan brings extensive experience in developing hit television series, including A Million Little Things and Life in Pieces.
- Brian Morewitz: Through Morewitz Media, Morewitz adds another layer of expertise, having previously worked on high-profile projects with compelling storytelling.
Together, this team is poised to deliver a series that balances humor, mystery, and heartfelt drama.
Why Fox Chose Pennies
Fox has demonstrated a commitment to diversifying its lineup with procedural dramas that stand out from the crowd. The network’s investment in Pennies, complete with a script commitment plus penalty, reflects its belief in the project’s potential to resonate with audiences.
This commitment also underscores Fox’s strategy of banking on character-driven narratives that blend procedural elements with emotional depth, as seen in hits like 9-1-1 and The Resident.
Scott Prendergast’s Legacy in Procedural Dramas
Prendergast’s previous series, So Help Me Todd, was celebrated for its fresh take on the procedural genre, weaving humor and family dynamics into legal drama. Although it lasted only two seasons, the show developed a loyal fan base and demonstrated Prendergast’s knack for creating relatable characters in high-stakes environments.
His new project, Pennies, builds on that legacy by exploring another unique family dynamic — this time between siblings — while diving into the world of forensics and law.
What Fans Can Expect From Pennies
1. Engaging Mysteries
Each episode is likely to feature a self-contained case, blending forensic science and legal strategy to deliver satisfying conclusions.
2. Rich Character Arcs
As with So Help Me Todd, viewers can expect deep dives into the personal lives of the characters, exploring how their pasts shape their present relationships and decisions.
3. Humor and Heart
Prendergast excels at balancing drama with humor, ensuring that even the most intense moments are lightened by wit and warmth.
Looking Ahead
While Pennies is still in its early stages, the excitement surrounding the project is palpable. For fans of Scott Prendergast’s previous work, the series offers a chance to revisit his signature storytelling style in a fresh, innovative format.
With its unique premise, talented creative team, and Fox’s backing, Pennies has all the makings of a must-watch procedural drama. As production unfolds, fans will eagerly await more details about casting, storylines, and a potential premiere date.
For now, one thing is clear: Pennies is poised to deliver a rich blend of mystery, humor, and family drama that will leave audiences clamoring for more.
