If the series lives up to its trailer, HBO’s The Franchise is going to be one of the most quotable comedies in years. The first minute-and-a-half teaser shows chaos on the set of a sci-fi action superhero film.
Himesh Patel stars as Daniel, Aya Cash is Anita, Jessica Hynes plays Steph, and Billy Magnussen is Adam. Lolly Adefope is Dag, Darren Goldstein is Pat, and Isaac Powell plays Bryson. Richard E. Grant and Daniel Brühl show up as recurring guest stars.
“The Franchise follows the crew of an unloved franchise movie fighting for their place in a savage and unruly cinematic universe,” reads HBO’s synopsis. “The comedy series shines a light on the secret chaos inside the world of superhero moviemaking, to ask the question — how exactly does the cinematic sausage get made? Because every f*ck-up has an origin story.”
Jon Brown (Succession) wrote the pilot, executive produces, and serves as showrunner. Sam Mendes directed the pilot and executive produces along with Jim Kleverweis, Dundee Productions’ Armando Iannucci, and Neal Street Productions’ Pippa Harris, Nicolas Brown, and Julie Pastor.
The Franchise premieres on October 6, 2024, with new episodes airing on Sundays at 10pm ET/PT.
The comedy series was greenlit by HBO on August 9, 2023. Commenting on the project at that time, Amy Gravitt, Executive Vice President, HBO Programming, Head of HBO & Max Comedy Series, said, “With a deft touch only he can bring, Sam has brilliantly captured the romance and the reality of filmmaking today. Jon is superb at sending up worlds we think we already know. Together, with Armando [Iannucci], they have delivered a truly hilarious comedy ensemble. I can’t wait to see more.”
This post was last modified on June 25, 2025 12:05 pm