HBO has renewed the comedy ‘Rooster’ for a second season. The series, starring Steve Carell and created by Bill Lawrence and Matt Tarses, had its Season 1 finale on May 10.
Since premiering March 8, the college-set comedy has drawn strong viewership, with its first four episodes averaging 5.8 million viewers in the U.S. HBO says the show is on track to become its most-watched freshman comedy in over a decade.
Set on a university campus, Rooster follows Greg Russo (Carell), a successful author who takes a writer-in-residence role at the same school where his daughter Katie (Charly Clive) teaches. Their already complicated relationship is further strained as Katie navigates a messy, public split from her husband Archie (Phil Dunster). The ensemble also includes Danielle Deadwyler, John C. McGinley, and Lauren Tsai, alongside a slate of recurring guest stars.
HBO executives credit the show’s warm reception and strong creative team for the early renewal. “It’s been heartening to feel the audience embrace ‘Rooster,’ as we did when we first saw Steve, Bill and Matt bring this character to life. Along with our partners at WBTV and Doozer, we’re looking forward to seeing what Ludlow’s spring semester has in store for this incredible comedy ensemble,” said Amy Gravitt, EVP of HBO Programming and head of comedy.
Clancy Collins White of Warner Bros. Television echoed that enthusiasm, adding, “‘Rooster’ is a heartfelt, endearing series, and its second-season renewal is richly deserved. Bill Lawrence and Matt Tarses are masters of their craft, bringing their signature heart and humor to life through an incredible cast led by Steve Carell. We’re thrilled to continue this creative journey with HBO and Doozer.”
Lawrence also expressed appreciation for the continued support behind the scenes: “We are so grateful to Warner Bros. Television and HBO for being such great partners, and to Casey, Amy and Channing for giving us the opportunity to keep making this show with Steve and our amazing cast. It’s been a career highlight for both of us, but more for Matt than me.”
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