Shepard to writer, direct produce, and star…
Deadline’s Mike Fleming is reporting that actor-turned-director Dax Shepard (‘Hit & Run,’ ‘Parenthood’) has closed a deal with Warner Bros. to write, direct and star in a big screen take of the classic 1970s/80s TV series ‘CHiPS.’
The series, created by Rick Rosner, ran from 1977-83 and starred Erik Estrada and Larry Wilcox as two motorcycle police officers who patrolled the highways of California’s highways.
Shepard will play Officer Jon Baker, with Michael Peña (‘Ant-Man,’ ‘End of Watch’) attached to play Frank “Ponch” Poncherello.
According to the Fleming’s sources, the new take is “envisioned as much in the tone of ‘Bad Boys’ and ‘Lethal Weapon’ than a comedy.”
Andrew Panay is producing, along with Shepard’s Primate Pictures banner. Rosner is on board to serve as executive producer.