Fox has secured this project, and it’s already making waves in the industry. The show is a light procedural with a unique family dynamic at its core. If you’re a fan of So Help Me Todd or light-hearted crime-solving dramas with a quirky twist, Pennies could be your next binge-worthy obsession. Here’s what we know so far.
What Is Pennies About?
At the heart of Pennies is a reclusive forensic pathologist named Penny, who is more at ease with the dead than with the living. Sounds dark, right? But don’t let the grim profession fool you; this series has its own unique charm. Penny solves murders and mysteries originating from the San Francisco morgue. Her expertise in handling bodies isn’t the only thing that drives her – it’s her very complicated relationship with her overconfident sister, also named Penny, that really gives the show its heart.
The Core Characters: Penny and Penny
The show’s primary dynamic revolves around the two sisters, both named Penny, but with wildly different personalities and skill sets.
- Penny the Forensic Pathologist – The first Penny is a reclusive forensic pathologist. She’s highly skilled at what she does, but her social awkwardness keeps her from relating to real people. Penny finds comfort in solving the mysteries surrounding the dead, not the living. Her quiet and introverted nature adds a sense of mystery to the character, and her cold demeanor is softened by the interactions she has with her sister.
- Penny the Attorney – The second Penny is her extroverted sister, a lawyer working in the District Attorney’s office. Unlike the more introverted Penny, this version of Penny thrives in the spotlight, often coming off as over-confident. Despite their differences, the two sisters share a close bond, and their partnership in solving crimes becomes a key aspect of the show. The interplay between the two Penneys brings both humor and emotional depth to the series.
It’s this balance of light-hearted family drama and gripping crime-solving that sets Pennies apart from your typical procedural show. While one sister is solving mysteries in a morgue, the other is using her legal know-how to help crack cases from a different angle.
The San Francisco Setting
Set against the backdrop of the picturesque yet gritty city of San Francisco, the show makes full use of the urban landscape. From the fog-covered streets to the grand old buildings that tell the story of the city, San Francisco becomes more than just a backdrop. The setting adds atmosphere, making it the perfect location for a crime procedural.
Behind the Scenes: The Creative Minds
Pennies wouldn’t be what it is without the creative brilliance of its team. Scott Prendergast, who has experience as both a writer and executive producer, is at the helm once again, following his successful run with So Help Me Todd.
Scott Prendergast: The Man Behind the Show
Scott Prendergast has proven himself as a versatile and creative storyteller. After working as a writer on the hit FX comedy Wilfred, he gained recognition for his wit and ability to juggle humor and drama. As a creator and executive producer, his work on So Help Me Todd caught the attention of both audiences and critics.
With Pennies, Prendergast takes a different approach by blending crime-solving with family dynamics. This shift could be a big win, considering how much audiences enjoy quirky yet heartfelt relationships between characters. Expect Pennies to have moments of levity mixed with darker, suspense-filled storytelling.
Kapital Entertainment and Morewitz Media
The show is being produced by Kapital Entertainment, the company behind So Help Me Todd, with Aaron Kaplan serving as executive producer. The production company has a strong track record of delivering engaging television shows with fresh perspectives.
Additionally, Brian Morewitz from Morewitz Media joins the team as an executive producer. His experience and expertise add depth to the project, ensuring Pennies will be a well-executed and highly watchable series.
What Makes Pennies Stand Out in the Procedural Genre?
Procedural shows have been a staple of television for years. From police procedurals to courtroom dramas, the genre has seen its fair share of twists and turns. So what makes Pennies stand out in this crowded field?
A Unique Family Dynamic
The biggest differentiator for Pennies is the relationship between the two main characters, who just happen to be sisters with the same name. Their different personalities — one introverted and the other extroverted — will undoubtedly create plenty of humorous and heartwarming moments. Their ability to solve crimes together, despite their contrasting approaches, promises to keep things fresh.
The unique sibling relationship gives Pennies a more personal feel than the typical procedural, where the focus is often on the case of the week. Instead, viewers can expect a mix of crime-solving and family drama, which will keep the show engaging for a wide audience.
Light Procedural with Emotional Depth
While Pennies is expected to be a lighter procedural, it will also delve into emotional territory. The show’s ability to balance crime-solving with emotional beats — especially when it comes to the complicated bond between the two sisters — will set it apart. The characters’ growth and the way they lean on each other through personal and professional struggles will create a rich narrative full of layers.
The San Francisco Touch
Many crime procedurals are set in big cities, but the choice of San Francisco as the setting for Pennies adds a distinctive flavor to the show. From the Golden Gate Bridge to the winding streets and beautiful Victorian houses, the city will play a key role in creating atmosphere and setting the tone. It’s a city known for its diversity and edge, making it the perfect backdrop for a show that blends mystery, family, and crime.
What’s Next for Pennies?
As of now, Pennies has been secured by Fox with a script commitment plus penalty, which means the show is moving ahead with significant backing. This is a major milestone for any TV series, especially in a competitive market. Fans of Scott Prendergast’s work, as well as those who enjoy light crime procedurals, will want to keep their eyes peeled for more updates.
The project is still in the early stages, but with its unique premise, talented creative team, and strong network backing, Pennies is poised to be a hit. It could provide the perfect mix of suspense, humor, and heart that television fans crave.
Conclusion
Pennies is shaping up to be a must-watch series that combines the best elements of family dynamics, quirky crime-solving, and a distinctive setting. With Scott Prendergast’s signature blend of humor and drama, the show promises to offer something fresh in the procedural genre. Whether you’re a fan of So Help Me Todd, a crime drama enthusiast, or just someone looking for a compelling new show, Pennies might just be your next favorite TV obsession.
