## CBS Bets Big on Big Ideas: “Einstein” and “DMV” Greenlit for Primetime
Forget the tired tropes and predictable sitcoms. CBS is shaking things up, throwing its weight behind two wildly different concepts that promise to be anything but ordinary. From the mind-bending possibilities of a procedural set in the universe of Albert Einstein to the laugh-out-loud absurdity of a workplace comedy set in the notoriously frustrating world of the DMV, these new series represent a bold gamble by the network to capture the attention of a diverse audience. But are these out-of-the-box ideas destined for success, or will they get lost in the shuffle of network television?
The Road to Adaptation
CBS’ latest pilot order for the procedural drama “Einstein” marks the fourth attempt to adapt the German format for a US audience. The journey to get to this point has been long and winding, with various teams and approaches tried over the years.
The first attempt to adapt “Einstein” began in 2018, with a version written by Michael Reisz and produced by Carol Mendelsohn, set up for development at NBC via Universal TV. A year later, Andy Breckman and Randy Zisk developed a new take of “Einstein” for CBS.
The following season, the network teamed with Insatiable creator Lauren Gussis and American Gothic creator Corinne Brinkerhoff for a gender-swapped version. However, it wasn’t until Breckman’s TV return with the highly rated “Mr. Monk’s Last Case” original movie for Peacock, directed by Zisk, that the duo took another stab at the “Einstein” concept for CBS and CBS Studios.
What Led to Success
The key to finally getting a successful pilot order for “Einstein” lies in the combination of the right team and approach. Breckman and Zisk’s experience with procedurals, having worked together on “Monk”, brought a level of expertise and understanding of the genre to the project.
Additionally, the current development strategy at CBS, which focuses on ordering pilots and development rooms more than a year ahead of the broadcast season, allowed for a more deliberate and thoughtful approach to adapting “Einstein” for a US audience.
‘Einstein’ Procedural and Its Parallels
The “Einstein” procedural, with its brilliant but directionless protagonist, draws parallels to other popular procedurals like “Monk” and “Numbers”. The show’s concept, which follows the great-grandson of Albert Einstein as he helps a local police detective solve her most puzzling cases, is reminiscent of the clever and quirky characters found in these shows.
Like “Monk”, “Einstein” features a brilliant detective at its center, whose unique perspective and skills help solve crimes. Similarly, the show’s use of a professor as the protagonist, whose expertise is used to help solve crimes, is similar to the approach taken in “Numbers”.
These parallels are not coincidental, given the involvement of Andy Breckman, who wrote the “Einstein” pilot, and Randy Zisk, who will direct it. Breckman’s experience with “Monk” and his understanding of the procedural genre have undoubtedly influenced the development of “Einstein”.
‘DMV’ Comedy and Other Developments
In addition to the “Einstein” pilot order, CBS has also ordered a pilot for the comedy “DMV” and set up a development room for the comedy “Eternally Yours”. These shows, along with “Sheriff Country”, which is set to premiere during the 2025-26 season, are part of CBS’ overall strategy for the upcoming season.
The “DMV” comedy, which has been given a pilot order, offers a unique take on the traditional comedy format. With its focus on the mundane world of the Department of Motor Vehicles, the show has the potential to find humor in the everyday and relatable.
Meanwhile, “Eternally Yours” and “Sheriff Country” represent CBS’ continued efforts to develop a diverse range of shows that appeal to a broad audience. As part of the network’s long-term development strategy, these shows are being given the time and resources needed to develop and flourish.
Conclusion
Conclusion: CBS Lands Laughter and Genius with Latest Series Orders
The recent announcement of CBS’s latest series orders, including the “Einstein” procedural and the “DMV” comedy, is a significant development in the world of television. The key takeaway from this news is that CBS is doubling down on its commitment to diverse and engaging storytelling, catering to a wide range of audiences. On one hand, the “Einstein” procedural is poised to offer a fresh take on the crime drama genre, leveraging the iconic scientist’s name and legacy to explore complex themes and moral dilemmas. On the other hand, the “DMV” comedy promises to bring laughter and wit to viewers, tackling the mundane yet universally relatable experience of dealing with government bureaucracy.
The significance of these series orders lies in their ability to tap into current cultural trends and societal anxieties. By exploring the intersection of science and crime, and the absurdities of everyday life, these shows have the potential to resonate with viewers on a deeper level. Moreover, the fact that CBS is investing in these projects suggests a willingness to take risks and push boundaries, which is essential for staying competitive in the ever-evolving television landscape. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these shows perform and whether they can help CBS maintain its position as a leader in the world of television.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that CBS is positioning itself for success in the years to come. With a slate of innovative and engaging shows, the network is poised to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact on the television landscape. As one of the most influential networks in the industry, CBS’s success has far-reaching implications for the entertainment industry as a whole. Will these new series orders be the key to unlocking a new era of creativity and innovation in television? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the future of television is looking brighter than ever.