FX Picks Up Laura Benanti Comedy Pilot

By Andrew Gans
February 23, 2005

"Starved," the new comedy starring Broadway singer-actress Laura Benanti, has been picked up by the FX Network.

FX, Variety reports, has ordered seven episodes of the series, which is scheduled for a premiere in summer 2005. Benanti stars as one of four friends (three men, one woman), all in their thirties, who are dealing with eating disorders. Described as a "comedic take on America's addiction to food," "Starved" was written and directed by Eric Schaeffer. Schaeffer also appeared in the pilot episode of the series, which will be filmed in New York. Schaeffer and Dan Pasternack are executive producers of the new comedy.

"Starved" is one of two comedy series the FX Network has okayed. "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" — about a bar owned by a group of friends — will also join the FX roster this summer.

Laura Benanti most recently portrayed Claudia in the Tony-winning revival of Maury Yeston’s Nine. She received Tony Award nominations for her performances in Swing! and the revival of Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods. She was also seen in The Sound of Music, Time and Again and the City Center Encores! mounting of Wonderful Town. Benanti’s regional credits include roles in A Little Night Music, Man of La Mancha and A Winter’s Tale.