HBO works with bikers, doctors
By Nellie Andreeva
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - HBO, which is rebuilding its drama lineup following the departure of "The Sopranos" and "Six Feet Under," has ordered two pilots, one set in the world of biker gangs, the other in the near future at a cutting-edge medical research institute.
Oscar-nominated writer Michael Tolkin's ("The Player") "1%" takes its name from a tattoo used by biker gang members to symbolize life on the fringe of American society. It refers to a statement put out 50 years ago by the American Motorcycle Assn. that said gangs don't represent the legitimate motorcycle community but the 1% who are a threat to the American way of life.
"Patient 2344," meanwhile, was written by "Man of the House" scribe John J. McLaughlin. Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel, a leading expert in such fields as ethics of clinical research, health care reform and euthanasia, will serve as a consultant.
Additionally, the pay cable network has picked up its racy relationship drama "Tell Me You Love Me" for a second season.
"Love Me" has stirred controversy with its explicit depiction of sex scenes. It debuted September 9 to underwhelming ratings, averaging only 910,000 total viewers, but the series about three couples in various stages of their relationship seeing the same therapist (Jane Alexander) has been building buzz and has developed a devoted following.
Reuters/Hollywood Reporter
