Scott Bakula To Star In CBS Detective Drama

Scott Bakula, known for his role as Dwayne Pride in the CBS series NCIS: New Orleans, is slated to star in and executive produce a new procedural drama currently in early development at the network. This project marks a potential return to CBS for the actor, who previously led the cast of NCIS: New Orleans for seven seasons, concluding in May 2021. The untitled drama is being developed by Electric Entertainment, the production company founded by Dean Devlin. Devlin, a prolific producer and writer known for his work on films like Independence Day and The Patriot, as well as television series such as Leverage and The Librarians, will serve as an executive producer on the project. The series is described as a high-concept detective procedural, suggesting a unique premise or twist on the traditional crime-solving format. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the involvement of Bakula and Devlin indicates a focus on character-driven storytelling within a crime-solving framework. Electric Entertainment has a history of producing genre television, including action-adventure and sci-fi series, but this marks a venture into the procedural drama space with a prominent network partner. The early development stage means the project is still in its formative phases, with script development and casting to follow. CBS has a long-standing relationship with Bakula and a successful track record with procedural dramas, making this a potentially strong fit for the network's programming slate. The involvement of Dean Devlin's Electric Entertainment also signals a commitment to high-quality production values, as the company has consistently delivered engaging content across various platforms. The high-concept nature of the detective procedural hints at a departure from more conventional crime shows, potentially incorporating elements of science fiction, fantasy, or a unique investigative methodology. The collaboration between Bakula, a seasoned television actor with a proven ability to anchor a series, and Devlin, a seasoned showrunner, positions the project as a significant undertaking for CBS. Further details regarding the creative team, potential co-stars, and the specific premise are expected to emerge as the development process progresses. The series aims to leverage Bakula's established presence and appeal, combined with Devlin's expertise in crafting compelling narratives, to create a distinctive addition to the network's lineup of popular crime dramas. The procedural genre continues to be a cornerstone of network television, and this new offering from CBS and Electric Entertainment seeks to innovate within that space by incorporating a high-concept element that distinguishes it from existing shows. The early stage of development suggests that the network is investing in the foundational elements of the series, including the core concept and the lead talent, before committing to a full production order. This approach allows for flexibility and refinement, ensuring that the final product aligns with both creative aspirations and audience expectations for engaging television.