The upcoming scripted comedy series, “Survival of the Thickest,” is based on Buteau’s book of essays of the same name.
Michelle Buteau’s upcoming Netflix series continues to take shape. The scripted comedy series has added actors Tasha Smith and Tone Bell to its cast, the streaming giant announced.
Inspired by his popular book of essays “Survival of the Thickest,” Buteau’s new series received an eight-episode order from Netflix earlier this year. The series is created by Buteau and Danielle Sanchez-Witzel, with Buteau playing Mavis Beaumont, a newly single plus-size black woman who “unexpectedly finds herself having to rebuild her life as a struggling hairstylist.” Netflix official. notes “She is determined not only to survive but to thrive with the support of the family she chose, a positive attitude towards her body, and a cute V-neckline with a little lip gloss.”
Smith and Bell join the series as characters from Beaumont’s world. Smith’s character is Marley, a self-made millionairess in her 50s living in New York City. Described as a woman who always has “a fresh luxe manicure and the best day and night serums money can buy,” she’s poised to bring a “warm big sister vibe” to Beaumont. Smith has appeared on shows like “Empire” as Carol Hardaway, Tyler Perry’s “For Better or For Worse” and more.
Bell (“Little,” “The Flash”) joins as Beaumont’s best friend since high school, Khalil. Described as a “creative and talented artist”, he begins to question “what really matters and if it’s worth complicating your life for the right person”. In addition to the cast additions, Netflix announced Linda Mendoza (“Never Ever,” “30 Rock,” “Girls5Eva”) as director for the first two episodes.
As theGrio previously reported, Buteau shared a statement about the series and its partnership with Netflix when it was announced.
“It has been amazing to find a home with Netflix. To say that I am excited to continue my relationship with them is an understatement. I’m over the moon and I’m under it! Danielle has been a dream partner and I can’t wait to share what we’ve been cooking up,” she said.
The series is produced by A24 and Mosaic’s Anne Hong, with Sanchez-Witzel serving as showrunner.
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