NBC's Commitment to Diverse Storytelling

In an exciting move that reinforces the network's commitment to diverse storytelling, NBC has officially greenlit a single-camera comedy pilot set in a Native American community center. This unique project is poised to bring laughter and representation to the forefront, as confirmed by Variety.

The Creative Team Behind the Project

The untitled pilot is crafted by an impressive trio of writers and executive producers: Sierra Teller Ornelas, Jackie Keliiaa, and Bobby Wilson. The talented Sierra Teller Ornelas will take on the role of showrunner, while Morgan Sackett will also serve as an executive producer. The project is produced by Universal Television, where both Teller Ornelas and Sackett hold overall deals.

Premise of the Show

Described as "an ensemble comedy set at a Native community center in Oakland, Calif.," the show aims to highlight the daily hustle of its employees as they strive to keep operations running smoothly while simultaneously supporting those in need throughout the community. This premise promises to blend comedy with poignant social commentary, offering a window into the vibrant yet challenging world that the Native community navigates.

Collaboration of the Creative Team

What makes this project particularly noteworthy is the collaboration of the creative team, who previously joined forces on the critically acclaimed Peacock series "Rutherford Falls." This earlier series also explored Native American themes through humor, showcasing the depth of storytelling that emerges from these experiences. Teller Ornelas co-created "Rutherford Falls" and served as its showrunner, while Morgan Sackett was an executive producer, and Bobby Wilson contributed as a writer and made an on-screen appearance as the character Wayne.

Profiles of the Writers

Sierra Teller Ornelas brings a wealth of experience to the table, having worked on popular shows like "Loot" at Apple TV+, and "Superstore" and "St. Denis Medical" at NBC. Her impressive portfolio underscores her ability to blend humor with important narratives.

Jackie Keliiaa, an accomplished stand-up comedian and writer based in Oakland, has made a name for herself not only in comedy circuits but also as a versatile performer. She's showcased her talents on major platforms like Comedy Central and Team Coco, and she lends her voice to Bubble in Netflix’s "Spirit Rangers." Keliiaa also produces "Good Medicine Comedy," an all-Native comedy show that emphasizes the importance of representation in entertainment.

Bobby Wilson has gained recognition for his multifaceted contributions to media, having written for and appeared in the critically-acclaimed FX series "Reservation Dogs," which concluded its successful three-season run in 2023. Additionally, Wilson's involvement in the Marvel series "Echo" and his role in the hit show "What We Do in the Shadows" further highlights his versatility and influence within the industry. He is also a founding member of the Native sketch comedy group The 1491s, a collective known for pushing boundaries and bringing attention to Native perspectives in a humorous light.

Looking Ahead

With such a talented team behind it and a premise that promises to resonate with audiences, this upcoming pilot is one to watch. As NBC continues to diversify its programming, the potential impact of this comedy could pave the way for more authentic representation of Native voices in mainstream media. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting new project!