Actor and comedian J.B. Smoove, in collaboration with his production company Alternate Side Productions, has forged a significant multi-year, first-look agreement with Fox Entertainment Studios. This strategic partnership is poised to foster the creation and development of a wide range of unscripted television projects, showcasing Smoove's unique comedic flair and innate ability to connect with audiences through spontaneous and authentic content.
J.B. Smoove Partners with Fox Entertainment Studios for Unscripted Content Development
On May 20, 2026, Fox Entertainment Studios announced a groundbreaking first-look unscripted deal with celebrated actor and comedian J.B. Smoove and his production company, Alternate Side Productions. This multi-year agreement grants Smoove and his team, including executive producers Rick Dorfman and Miles Grose, the opportunity to conceptualize, develop, and produce a diverse portfolio of unscripted series and specials. The collaboration marks a significant step for Fox Entertainment Studios in expanding its unscripted programming slate, capitalizing on Smoove's distinct comedic presence and improvisational prowess. Allison Wallach, Head of Unscripted Programming at Fox Entertainment Studios, expressed immense enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting Smoove's "unmistakable comedic voice and a fearless, spontaneous energy" as ideal for the unscripted genre. Smoove, renowned for his role in "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and other notable projects such as "Spider-Man: No Way Home" and the Emmy-winning "Mapleworth Murders," shared his excitement, emphasizing the authentic and unpredictable nature of unscripted television. This collaboration is expected to bring innovative and entertaining shows to viewers, tapping into real-life humor and unexpected moments that define Smoove's comedic style. Smoove is represented by Authentic Talent and Literary Management, UTA, and attorney Roger Pliakas.
This venture underscores the evolving landscape of television content, where established comedic talents are increasingly venturing into unscripted formats. J.B. Smoove’s move into a first-look deal for unscripted projects signals a broader trend of leveraging personality-driven content that thrives on authenticity and improvisation. For audiences, this partnership promises a fresh wave of genuinely entertaining and unpredictable shows, while for the industry, it highlights the strategic value of aligning with artists who possess a strong, distinct voice and a knack for engaging storytelling beyond traditional scripted narratives.