Stage: Pilot script

How would it work? Single camera sitcom takes the basic concept of freewheeling bachelor-meets-weird kid and sets it in suburban America as a neighbours story.

What to say about it: Jason Katims, a man who has successfully brought movies like Friday Night Lights and Parenthood to the small screen (the latter despite an earlier, short-lived attempt which included the writing power of one Joss Whedon), is in charge here. Though he’s usually worked in drama (or comedy drama), he’s been wanting to create a sitcom. The melding of the original Nick Hornby concept with a sitcom could certainly work in his hands.

Possible casting: Though you may have last seen him in Yogi Bear (shudder), we reckon Tom Cavanagh is a good call for this.

Possible tagline: "He’s growing up. At last."