Hulu developing jury-dating comedy

Hulu is developing an untitled ensemble comedy from comedian, writer and actor Dewayne Perkins, according to a Variety report published June 2. The project centers on a group of friends in their 30s who decide to “date by jury,” with their relationship decisions settled by group vote. Variety reported that Perkins is attached to star, write and executive produce if the series moves forward. The June 2 report did not include a cast list beyond Perkins, and Hulu had not announced a premiere date or production start. FilmUpdates circulated the news on X the same day, describing the premise as a comedy about friends who use “jury dating.” ### What exactly is the show’s premise? Variety said the series follows a friend group in their 30s whose members submit their dating choices to a collective vote. (variety.com) The trade described the setup as “date by jury,” with all relationship decisions determined by the group. The logline cited by Variety names two central figures — “chaotically gay Denny” and “just trying his best straight Nelson.” It says the friends are trying to help one another find new partners while also rebuilding confidence, “streamline their joy” and define their next chapter. (variety.com) ### What is Dewayne Perkins’ role in the project? (variety.com) Perkins is set to wear three hats on the Hulu project, according to Variety: star, writer and executive producer. The report said those roles would apply if Hulu gives the show a formal green light. Perkins has been building a broader screen profile in comedy. Variety noted that he currently appears on Seth Rogen’s Apple TV+ series “The Studio,” and that he co-wrote, produced and starred in Lionsgate’s “The Blackening.” His credits also include writing for “The Amber Ruffin Show” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” Variety reported. (variety.com) ### Who else is attached behind the scenes? Stephen Curry, Erick Peyton and Sharla Sumpter Bridgett are also attached as executive producers through Unanimous Media, Variety reported. The company was founded in 2018 by Curry and Peyton, according to the same report. Variety said Unanimous Media’s previous projects have included the animated film “GOAT” and the Apple TV docuseries “Underrated.” That places the Hulu comedy inside a producing slate that has stretched across scripted and unscripted entertainment. (variety.com) ### Where does this fit in Perkins’ current run? Perkins’ own website says he has been touring a one-man show, “How Being Black & Gay Made Me Better Than You.” The site also lists earlier stand-up recognition including Variety’s “10 Comics to Watch” in 2020 and New York Times recognition in 2022. (variety.com) IndieWire reported on May 29 that Perkins is set to host its Spring 2026 Honors ceremony on June 4 in Los Angeles. (variety.com) That report also pointed to his recent work on “The Studio” and to the continuing impact of “The Blackening.” ### What has not been announced yet? Hulu and the producers have not announced additional casting, episode count, a studio partner beyond the producing entities named by Variety, or a release window. (dewayneperkins.com) The June 2 trade report also did not say whether the project has gone beyond development. As of June 2, the next public milestone is likely a formal series order, casting announcement or studio confirmation from Hulu or the producers. (indiewire.com) For now, the only named participants publicly attached are Perkins, Curry, Peyton and Sumpter Bridgett, according to Variety’s June 2 report. (variety.com)