Universal Pictures today announced that the studio has entered into a two-year, first-look production agreement with Tina Fey and her Little Stranger, Inc. production banner. The Emmy Award-winning actress, writer, producer and bestselling author may currently be seen in Universal’s hit comedy Sisters, which has already grossed more than $100 million at the worldwide box office to date. The announcement was made by Donna Langley, Chairman, Universal Pictures.
“With her trademark wit, unparalleled voice and business acumen, Tina has found success on nearly every platform—both in front of and behind the camera. We are thrilled to continue our relationship with her team and develop projects that entertain global audiences,” said Langley. “She is a comedic icon whose fearless commitment to her craft has made her one of the entertainment industry’s most in-demand talents. We could not be more fortunate now that we are able to call Universal her home.”
Fey has also named Eric Gurian Executive Vice President of Little Stranger. Gurian and Fey have worked together for 11 years, dating back to their time at “Saturday Night Live” and through all seven seasons of NBC’s “30 Rock.” Gurian co-produced Sisters and is currently serving as a co-executive producer on the Emmy Award-nominated Universal Television/ Netflix comedy series “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.”
“Universal has proven to be such a great home for comedy. I’m very excited to continue collaborating with, and learning from, Donna Langley, Peter Cramer and the entire production team,” said Fey.
It was recently announced that Fey will produce Do Nothing Bitches via Little Stranger, alongside longtime friend and collaborator Paula Pell (Sisters, “30 Rock,” “Saturday Night Live”). Pell will write the screenplay, and Fey will star opposite UFC champion Ronda Rousey (Furious 7, Entourage). Additionally, Little Stranger is developing a project based on the Good Housekeeping article “You Bet!” by Ruth Palmer. You Bet! is based on the true story of three women who, when struggling financially, learn to count cards in Atlantic City. Fey is attached to star and Sarah Heyward (HBO’s “Girls”) recently signed on to write the screenplay.
In addition to her many film and television credits, Fey’s enduring bestselling memoir “Bossypants” has sold more than 3 million copies to date and her various projects have earned recognition from the voting membership of the Emmy, Golden Globe, WGA, PGA, SAG, BFCA, Grammy, Peabody, Gracie and The Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Prize, among many others.
