Fox Orders Live-Action Comedy Series 'Mammoth' From 'Modern Family' Duo

Fox has officially ordered "Mammoth," its first live-action comedy series in over two years, marking a significant development in the network's scripted programming slate. The series is slated for the 2027-28 broadcast season and hails from the acclaimed creative team behind the long-running ABC sitcom "Modern Family." Specifically, the show is developed by Christopher Lloyd, who served as creator and executive producer of "Modern Family," and Danny Zuker, a writer and executive producer on the same series. This collaboration brings together established talent with a proven track record in producing successful, character-driven comedies.

"Mammoth" is based on a British comedy format of the same name, originally aired on BBC Two. The original UK series explored the dynamics within a family and their interactions with the world around them, often through a lens of relatable humor and observational wit. The adaptation for Fox aims to capture a similar spirit while tailoring the content for an American audience. The involvement of Lloyd and Zuker suggests a focus on sharp dialogue, ensemble character development, and the kind of heartwarming, yet humorous, storytelling that defined "Modern Family" for its eleven-season run.

The decision by Fox to greenlight "Mammoth" signifies a renewed commitment to live-action comedy, a genre that has seen shifts in network strategies over the past decade. The network's last live-action comedy series order was more than two years prior to this announcement, indicating a strategic re-evaluation of its scripted comedy offerings. The choice to base the new series on a successful UK format also reflects a broader trend in television production, where international concepts are often adapted to tap into established audience appeal and creative frameworks. The production of "Mammoth" is being handled by 20th Television, a division of Disney Television Studios, which is a common partner for Fox network productions.

While specific plot details for the Fox adaptation of "Mammoth" have not yet been fully revealed, the pedigree of its creators and its origin as a BBC Two comedy suggest a focus on domestic life, interpersonal relationships, and the everyday absurdities that can be mined for comedic effect. The series is expected to leverage the comedic sensibilities of Lloyd and Zuker, who are known for their ability to craft nuanced characters and relatable scenarios. The 2027-28 season premiere date indicates a deliberate production timeline, allowing ample time for development, casting, and filming to ensure a high-quality launch for the new series. This order represents a significant investment by Fox in the live-action comedy genre, aiming to replicate the success of past hits and capture a broad audience with its new offering.