If you’ve been keeping an eye on the latest buzz in the world of television, you might have heard some exciting news: CBS has officially picked up the pilot for So Help Me Todd—a new legal drama filmed in Vancouver. But the real question is, will this pilot turn into a full series? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this promising new show, the production details, and whether or not you can expect to see more of it on your screens in the near future.
What Is So Help Me Todd?
So Help Me Todd is shaping up to be the next big thing for CBS, with a fresh twist on the legal drama genre. The show centers around a sharp, but often rebellious, private investigator named Todd, played by Skylar Astin. Todd’s somewhat unconventional methods of solving cases get him into trouble, but his undeniable skills also help him crack cases that others can’t. What makes the show even more compelling is that he’s working alongside his mother, who happens to be a high-powered attorney. The duo’s contrasting personalities promise a lot of tension, humor, and heart, making it an interesting blend of drama and family dynamics.
The series combines legal drama with a healthy dose of humor, featuring intriguing characters and complicated cases. With its mix of action, suspense, and wit, So Help Me Todd is creating high expectations for its success. The pilot has already caught the attention of CBS, so what does that mean for the future of the show?
Filming Location: Vancouver, Canada
Why Vancouver?
Vancouver has become a go-to filming location for many popular TV shows and movies, thanks to its beautiful scenery and versatile infrastructure. For So Help Me Todd, the city offers the perfect backdrop to create an urban yet cinematic feel for the legal cases and personal drama that will unfold.
While the show takes place in a bustling city with all the drama you’d expect from a legal thriller, Vancouver’s unique landscapes also provide a breath of fresh air for both the characters and the audience. From the towering skyscrapers to the quiet, tree-lined streets, Vancouver’s wide variety of settings can be used to create any mood the showrunners want, be it intense courtroom scenes or quieter, more personal moments.
But the decision to film in Vancouver is about more than just its beauty. It’s also a more cost-effective choice for production companies, offering tax incentives that make shooting in the area attractive. For CBS, this makes the pilot not just an exciting show but also a smart financial investment.
Why the Pilot Was Picked Up by CBS
The Appeal of So Help Me Todd
The decision to pick up a pilot is a huge step for any show, and CBS clearly sees potential in So Help Me Todd. So, why exactly did they go for it?
- Unique Concept: Legal dramas are nothing new, but this one offers a fresh twist by mixing family dynamics with the typical courtroom drama. The central relationship between Todd and his mother gives the show a heartwarming element that is appealing to a wide audience. At the same time, the legal cases provide the perfect mix of suspense, action, and intellectual stimulation.
- Strong Performances: The casting of Skylar Astin as Todd is a big win. Known for his roles in Pitch Perfect and Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, Astin’s charm and humor make him a relatable lead. Pairing him with a seasoned actress like Marcia Gay Harden, who plays his mother, adds depth and credibility to the show. Harden’s experience in both comedy and drama means she can bring the perfect balance to the role.
- Genre Popularity: Legal dramas are a staple of network TV. Shows like Law & Order and The Good Wife have proven the genre’s staying power. Combining that with the trend of character-driven stories and family dynamics, So Help Me Todd is riding a wave of successful TV tropes.
- High Production Quality: The fact that the pilot was filmed in Vancouver adds an extra layer of sophistication and polish to the show. Vancouver’s reputation for quality production values means that CBS is likely confident that the final product will meet high standards. That’s a key factor in securing a green light for a full series.
What Happens Next?
Will So Help Me Todd Be Picked Up for a Full Series?
Now that the pilot has been filmed and picked up, the next step is determining whether So Help Me Todd will make the jump to a full series. The pilot’s performance in ratings and audience reception will be the deciding factor. While CBS has expressed excitement about the potential of the show, nothing is guaranteed until the numbers come in.
However, the early buzz surrounding the pilot suggests a good chance for a full series order. With a well-known cast, an interesting premise, and the backing of a major network like CBS, So Help Me Todd is in a strong position to move forward.
If the pilot does well and draws in viewers, CBS could decide to greenlight a full season of episodes. This means we’d get to see more of Todd and his mother as they navigate their careers, personal lives, and the ever-complicated world of legal cases. For fans of legal dramas with a side of humor, So Help Me Todd could easily become a must-watch show.
Potential for Long-Term Success
Even if CBS decides to move forward with a full series, the real test will be whether the show can keep viewers hooked beyond the initial few episodes. While the pilot can establish the main characters and premise, a long-running show needs to evolve and keep the storytelling fresh.
If So Help Me Todd can continue to develop its characters, introduce new and compelling legal cases, and maintain the right balance between drama and comedy, it has the potential to be a long-term success. The chemistry between Astin and Harden is already a highlight, and it will be exciting to see how their relationship evolves over multiple episodes.
CBS’s Track Record with Legal Dramas
CBS has a strong history of successful legal dramas, such as The Good Wife and Bull. These shows have not only been well-received by audiences but have also attracted critical acclaim. CBS is known for its ability to spot talent and potential in the legal drama genre, and So Help Me Todd seems to be in line with that tradition. If the pilot can live up to expectations, there’s a good chance that the show will follow in the footsteps of its predecessors.
What Viewers Can Expect
The Tone of the Show
From what we know about the pilot, So Help Me Todd promises a mix of sharp wit and heartfelt moments. The combination of Todd’s unconventional methods and his mother’s high-powered legal career sets up a dynamic that could explore themes of family loyalty, personal growth, and professional ambition. This makes for an engaging mix of humor and drama that could appeal to a broad audience.
The legal cases themselves will likely vary in tone, from intense courtrooms to more personal investigations. The show will balance serious legal issues with lighter, more comedic moments, providing a variety of emotions for viewers to enjoy.
The Relationship Between Todd and His Mother
A central theme of the show is the relationship between Todd and his mother. Their partnership, built on love and a fair share of conflict, is bound to evolve throughout the series. Todd’s rebellious streak and his mother’s more traditional, structured approach to life will create plenty of drama and comedic opportunities. If the show can develop this dynamic effectively, it could be one of its biggest selling points.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for So Help Me Todd?
While it’s still too early to say for sure whether So Help Me Todd will become a full series, there’s a lot of promise. The unique concept, strong performances, and CBS’s confidence in the show all point toward a successful future. If the pilot does well and resonates with viewers, we can likely expect more episodes in the near future.
If you’re a fan of legal dramas with a dash of humor and a compelling family storyline, So Help Me Todd is definitely one to keep an eye on. Whether or not it becomes a full series, there’s no doubt that the show has the potential to carve out a unique space in the TV landscape.
