Los Angeles is poised to welcome a fresh take on the classic private investigator narrative with NBC’s upcoming comedy pilot, starring Jake Johnson, Keith David, and now, Jane Levy. The project, helmed by the creative duo behind “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” Dan Goor and Luke Del Tredici, promises a workplace comedy steeped in the tradition of iconic Los Angeles PIs like Philip Marlowe. Levy’s casting adds another layer of talent to a show already generating buzz for its potential to revitalize the genre.
The addition of Levy, known for her captivating performance in the critically acclaimed musical dramedy “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist,” signals NBC’s commitment to assembling a strong ensemble cast. The pilot, picked up by the network in January 2026, aims to capture the gritty charm and complex relationships inherent in the world of private investigation, while injecting a healthy dose of humor. The show’s logline, referencing the legacy of Los Angeles private eyes, suggests a self-aware approach to the genre, acknowledging its history while forging its own path.
Jane Levy Joins a Stellar Cast
Levy will portray Faye, described as a “whip smart” investigative journalist – a character poised to be both resourceful and a formidable force within the PI agency. Her arrival alongside Johnson, who plays former LAPD cop Mickey Wilder, and David, as the agency’s seasoned boss Garner Taggert, creates a dynamic that promises compelling character interactions. Johnson’s character, Mickey, is described as a private investigator with a knack for solving cases, but also grappling with a recent personal upheaval. David’s Garner Taggert, a man with “somewhat antiquated views of the world,” provides a contrasting, authoritative presence.
This role marks a return to NBC for Levy, who previously captivated audiences as Zoey Clarke in “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist.” The show, which premiered in 2020 and ran for two seasons, garnered critical acclaim for its innovative blend of musical numbers and emotional storytelling. Levy’s performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination in 2021 for Best Actress in a Comedy Series, solidifying her status as a rising star. The series concluded with a finale film released by Roku in 2021, providing closure for devoted fans. As reported by Yahoo Entertainment, Levy’s versatility makes her a perfect fit for the new NBC comedy.
Behind the Scenes: The Creative Team
The pilot benefits from the experienced hands of Dan Goor and Luke Del Tredici, the writing and executive producing team behind the popular police comedy “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.” Their track record of crafting witty, character-driven comedies suggests a similar approach for this new venture. Akiva Schaffer, known for his work on “The Naked Gun” reboot, joins the team as director and executive producer, bringing a comedic sensibility honed through years of experience in film and television. Johnson also takes on a producing role, further demonstrating his investment in the project. Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, serves as the studio behind the production.
The creative team’s combined expertise suggests a commitment to delivering a high-quality comedy that balances humor with compelling storytelling. Goor and Del Tredici’s ability to create relatable characters and navigate complex themes, as demonstrated in “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” positions them well to tackle the nuances of the private investigator world. Schaffer’s directorial vision promises a visually engaging and comedic presentation, while Johnson’s involvement as a producer ensures that the show remains grounded in authenticity.
A Busy Slate for NBC
This new comedy pilot isn’t the only detective-focused project in development at NBC. The network is also actively working on a reboot of the classic series “The Rockford Files,” with David Boreanaz slated to take on the iconic role of Jim Rockford. Variety reported that this reboot aims to recapture the spirit of the original while updating the premise for a modern audience. The simultaneous development of these two projects suggests a strategic move by NBC to capitalize on the enduring appeal of the private investigator genre.
The convergence of these two projects highlights a renewed interest in the classic detective narrative. Both shows offer distinct approaches to the genre – one leaning towards comedy and the other towards a more traditional procedural format – providing NBC with a diverse range of options to appeal to a broad audience. The success of both pilots could potentially establish NBC as a leading network for detective-themed programming.
Levy’s Diverse Career
Beyond “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist,” Jane Levy boasts a diverse filmography that showcases her range as an actress. She has appeared in a variety of television series, including “Suburgatory,” “Shameless,” “Castle Rock,” “What/If,” and the Showtime revival of “Twin Peaks.” Her film credits include roles in horror features like Fede Álvarez’s “Evil Dead” and “Don’t Breathe,” demonstrating her ability to handle both comedic and dramatic roles. She is represented by UTA, Rise Management, and Sloane Offer.
Levy’s willingness to take on diverse roles has established her as a versatile and sought-after actress. Her experience in both television and film, coupled with her Golden Globe nomination, positions her as a valuable asset to the NBC comedy pilot. Her ability to seamlessly transition between genres suggests she will bring a unique energy and depth to the character of Faye.
The untitled NBC comedy pilot is currently in production, with no confirmed release date. Though, the combination of a talented cast, experienced creative team, and a compelling premise suggests a promising future for the project. As NBC continues to develop its slate of programming, this pilot stands out as a potential standout, offering a fresh and humorous take on the world of private investigation. The network’s commitment to both comedic and dramatic interpretations of the genre signals a strategic approach to attracting a wide range of viewers.
Further updates regarding casting, production timelines, and the show’s official title are expected in the coming months. Fans of the private investigator genre, as well as those familiar with the work of Dan Goor, Luke Del Tredici, and Jane Levy, will undoubtedly be watching closely for more news. The pilot’s success could pave the way for a full series order, bringing a new and exciting comedy to NBC’s lineup.
What happens next? Production on the pilot is underway, and NBC will evaluate the finished product to determine whether to move forward with a full series order. A decision is anticipated in the spring of 2026. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for further updates on this developing story.
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