HBO "Hung" up on "Sideways" director Payne

By Nellie Andreeva

LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Oscar-winning filmmaker Alexander Payne is set to make his TV debut directing HBO's comedy project "Hung."

The potential pilot was penned by "The Riches" creator Dmitry Lipkin and his wife/writing partner, Colette Burson.

"Hung" centers on an average middle-aged basketball coach who excels in one (private) area and figures out a way to put his endowment to use. The role has not yet been cast.

"Hung" marks the first project picked up by HBO's new entertainment president, Sue Naegle.

Although it hasn't been officially green-lighted as a pilot, "Hung" was put on the fast track, and the signing of Payne solidifies a formal production order.

Payne won an Oscar in 2005 for co-writing "Sideways." He also was nominated for directing the film, and five years earlier was nominated for co-writing "Election" with Jim Taylor.

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter