ABC unveils gay footballer comedy series
ABC has commissioned a comedy series based on the life of gay footballer Robbie Rogers.
The TV network announced it had bought ‘Men in Shorts’ – a half-hour comedy series based on the life of the former Leeds United player, who came out as gay when announcing his retirement in 2013.
He later made a comeback to the sport, joining LA Galaxy on a lucrative contract.
The show – which will air next year – was written by Rude Awakening creator Claudia Lonow, and Desperate Housewives writer Jordon Nardino, while Rogers himself is attached to the project as a producer.
It will deal with his battle for acceptance, both on and off the pitch, and his interactions with his teammates.
Rogers tweeted: “Really excited to be part of this”.
Lonow told Deadline: “To me, a sports team locker room is a workplace we haven’t seen before.
“I was absolutely captivated by his charm and his humour, and I just thought it could make a great show.”
The project was first rumoured to be in development in July.
