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Broadway BFFs Andrew Rannells and Josh Gad Reunite to Develop Hulu Comedy Series ‘Stay Tuned’
READ TIME: 3 MIN.
Tony-nominated actors Andrew Rannells and Josh Gad—beloved for their breakout roles as the original stars of Broadway’s ‘The Book of Mormon’—are set to headline and executive produce a new Hulu comedy series titled ‘Stay Tuned’ . The series draws inspiration from the 1992 film of the same name, starring John Ritter and Pam Dawber, but will reimagine the story for a modern audience, centering on the comedic rapport between Rannells and Gad.
Josh Gad confirmed the news with a playful Instagram post: “For over a decade @andrewrannells and I have been the Laverne and Shirley of our generation (according to our mothers). It therefore only makes sense to now do a TV series where we can literally do an episode as ‘Laverne and Shirley’ (assuming the rights to those characters aren’t prohibitively expensive and that the algorithm rewards ‘Laverne and Shirley’ viewership)” . Rannells echoed the excitement, adding, “Joshie and I are putting on a show with some new friends! We are very excited to be working with Akiva Goldsman, Greg Lessans, Jordan Cahan and HULU!” .
The original ‘Stay Tuned’ follows a couple who are sucked into their television and forced to survive a gauntlet of satirical TV show parodies . The Hulu adaptation pivots the focus to the comedic partnership of Rannells and Gad, promising a storyline that both honors the film’s legacy and resonates with contemporary audiences. The new series is being developed by Akiva Goldsman, Jordan Cahan, and Greg Lessans, with Cahan serving as showrunner .
As executive producers and stars, Rannells and Gad will have significant creative input, ensuring that the show’s humor and sensibility are authentic to their dynamic—a dynamic that Broadway and television fans have celebrated for years. While Hulu has not yet announced a formal series order or production timeline, anticipation is high for the project’s official green light .
Both Rannells and Gad have been vocal about the importance of inclusive storytelling and LGBTQ+ representation in the arts. Rannells, who is openly gay, has often spoken about the value of authentic queer visibility on stage and screen . Their partnership—rooted in friendship, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to affirming storytelling—resonates deeply with LGBTQ+ audiences who have long championed the need for more nuanced, joyful, and multi-dimensional queer narratives in mainstream media.
The announcement of ‘Stay Tuned’ comes at a time when audiences are increasingly seeking out content that reflects a diversity of experiences and identities. Hulu, known for championing inclusive programming, is expected to support the creative team in ensuring that the show’s humor and satire are accessible and affirming to all viewers, including LGBTQ+ communities .
Rannells and Gad’s professional partnership began with their acclaimed performances in ‘The Book of Mormon,’ which not only earned them Tony nominations but also established them as one of Broadway’s most beloved duos . Their chemistry has remained a hallmark of their work, including their reunion in the 2023 Broadway production ‘Gutenberg! The Musical!’ .
While both actors have enjoyed success in film, television, and voice work—Gad is widely known as the voice of Olaf in Disney’s ‘Frozen’ franchise, and Rannells has starred in acclaimed films such as ‘A Simple Favor’ and its sequel—‘Stay Tuned’ represents their most significant on-screen collaboration to date .
As ‘Stay Tuned’ moves through development, fans and industry observers alike are eager for updates on casting, production, and release dates. With a creative team committed to honoring the original film’s comedic legacy while pushing for greater inclusivity and representation, the series is poised to become a standout entry in Hulu’s 2025 programming slate.
For LGBTQ+ audiences, the reunion of Rannells and Gad offers not only the promise of laughter but also a meaningful step forward in the ongoing push for authentic, joyful queer visibility in mainstream entertainment.