Shameless set for US remake

10 months ago 06th Jan 13:00

British comedy drama 'Shameless' is set for a US remake.

The show - which centres around the life of an alcoholic father and his six children on a North England housing estate - will be made by US cable network HBO.

We are developing a US version of Shameless with 'The West Wing's John Wells writing. The question is how do you move that show to America and not lose its essence?

HBO official Mike Lombardo told of the challenges of presenting a reliable adaptation, saying: "We are developing a US version of Shameless with 'The West Wing's John Wells writing. The question is how do you move that show to America and not lose its essence?"

A version of the BAFTA award winning show was originally proposed in 2004 and in 2007 'Cheers' star Woody Harrelson was earmarked to play the lead role of Frank Gallagher, but the deal fell through.

While many British comedies adapted for US audiences - including 'Men Behaving Badly' and 'Coupling' have failed - the relative success of a US version of 'The Office' starring Steve Carell could paves the way for more British shows.

The UK version of 'Shameless' has been shown on BBC America and the Sundance Channel in the US.