While Showtime hasn’t been able to fully keep up with the likes of HBO in terms of overall quality of original programming or quantity, there are some serious bright spots on the premium network, including the long-running series, “Billions.” And because of that show’s popularity and awards recognition, it appears Showtime is ready to give “Billions” co-creators, Brian Koppelman and David Levien, another series about the business world to bring to the network, titled “Super Pumped.”
According to Deadline, Brian Koppelman and David Levien are developing a new Showtime anthology series, “Super Pumped,” and the first season is expected to star none other than Joseph Gordon-Levitt. “Super Pumped” is an anthology series that will attempt to focus on one new story each season, with the emphasis on real-life stories that rocked the business world. The first season, ‘The Battle for Uber,’ is expected to follow the rise of Uber, with Gordon-Levitt playing Travis Kalanick, the company’s CEO that was ousted in a boardroom coup. Koppelman and Levien are teaming up with Beth Schacter for the series, as the trio will serve as writers and co-showrunners.
“Joseph Gordon-Levitt is a remarkably intelligent and charismatic actor, embodying charm with an unpredictable edge,” said Amy Israel, Showtime’s EVP Scripted Programming. “We are beyond excited to see what he will bring to the role of Travis Kalanick, the hyper-brilliant and controversial CEO whose ambition and reckless drive threatened the very enterprise he was determined to build. We are equally thrilled to be partnering on another series with Brian Koppelman, David Levien and Beth Schacter, who always deliver provocative and deeply entertaining shows that drive cultural conversation.”
Gordon-Levitt most recently appeared in Aaron Sorkin’s “The Trial of the Chicago 7” and the action film “Project Power” for Netflix, as well as the Amazon original thriller, “7500.” In addition, he’s set to star in the upcoming “Pinocchio” live-action remake from Disney.