A huge project is in the works at HBO.

In a straight-to-series order, the network has set, A Black Lady Sketch Show, created by and starring Robin Thede and exec produced by Issa Rae.

According to multiple trade publication reports, the series is a half-hour sketch comedy show that features black women. According to The Hollywood Reporterthe series will “feature narrative sketches performed by a core cast of black women — including Thede — as well as celebrity guests. It is considered the first sketch comedy in TV history to be written by, directed by and starring an array of black women.”

Lauren Ashley Smith, who was the head writer on BET’s short-lived The Rundown with Robin Thede, will be head writer and co-exec producer for A Black Lady Sketch Show.

Despite being canceled by BET (which has new leadership now), Thede’s The Rundown was critically acclaimed by critics, earning a rare 100 percent approval on Rotten Tomatoes. After the cancellation, she went on to host the Television Critics Association Awards to a great response.

Thede also has a comedy project in development at ABC.

 

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