Nellie Andreeva

FX has picked up comedy pilot presentation Legit starring Australian comedian Jim Jefferies to series with a 13-episode order. The scripted comedy, co-created by Peter O’Fallon and Jefferies, is about comedian Jim (Jefferies) and his misguided attempts to become legitimate in life.  He is encouraged in his quest by his best friend Steve (Dan Bakkedahl), and Steve’s brother Billy (D.J. Qualls). O’Fallon (The Riches), who directed the pilot, Jefferies and Rick Cleveland (Nurse Jackie) serve as Executive Producers, along with Lisa Blum of New Wave Entertainment.

The series, produced FX Prods, will debut in January 2013. “This is going to be a breakout vehicle for Jim,” said Nick Grad, FX’s EP of Original Programming. “He has such a unique voice which is the common trait of any great comedian. It just happens to be spoken with an Australian accent.” Said Jefferies, “FX has set the bar so high with shows like Louie and Sunny, but I believe Peter and I have created something special. The cast is amazing and FX has given us all the freedom we need.” This is the second FX comedy series co-created and starring an Australian, joining Wilfred, co-created/toplined by Jason Gann. FX’s comedy roster also includes It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, The League, Archer, Louie and late-night entries Brand X with Russell Brand and Totally Biased with W. Kamau Bell. Legit was packaged by CAA.

TV Editor Nellie Andreeva - tip her here.