Impact Network‘s upcoming first scripted series has set its cast.
We learned that the half-hour workplace comedy “Highly Favored” has cast: Michael Colyar (“Blackish,” “House Party III,” “The Princess & The Frog,” “Martin”), KiKi Shepard (“It’s Showtime at the Apollo,” “Miss Evers Boys,” “Mind Your Business,” “Grey’s Anatomy”), Anthony S. Goolsby (“Will Trent,” “42”), Chico Benymon (“Half & Half,” “Ali,” “The Haunted Hathaways”), Rodney Perry (“Coming to America 2,” “Johnson Family Vacation”), and Melanie Comarcho (“Phat Tuesdays,” Snoop Dogg’s “F*CN Around”).
Full character descriptions can be found below.
The show was first reported to be set up at Impact Network back in November. As previously announced, it will consist of six episodes. A premiere date has yet to be set.
“With ‘Highly Favored,’ we are ushering in a new era of original storytelling at Impact Network. This series represents our commitment to creating impactful, positive narratives that connect with our audiences in meaningful ways,” commented Bishop Wayne T. Jackson, CEO and founder of Impact Network.
The official logline for the series states, “Rooted in humor, family, community and a touch of the absurd, ‘Highly Favored’ explores the clash between tradition and modernity through the point of view of the charismatic yet old-fashioned Pastor Michael Crawley (Colyar).”
Bentley Kyle Evans serves as executive producer, director, and showrunner on “Highly Favored” via Harvest Studios, with Trenten W. Gumbs also executive producing. Royal W. Jackson, Impact Network executive vice president, will co-executive produce. Colyar and Shepard also serve as producers in addition to starring.
“We are proud to present a series that not only entertains but uplifts, inspiring audiences with stories that feel real, relevant, and true to who we are. The cast of ‘Highly Favored’ has embodied this vision, bringing these characters to life with performances that deeply resonate.” said Jackson.
This will mark a reunion for Colyar and Evans, who previously worked together on the hit comedy series “Martin,” with Evans working on the show as a writer and producer. Colyar appeared in multiple episodes of the series in the role of Mr. Whitaker.
“A great cast is the secret ingredient for any series. Michael, KiKi, Anthony, Chico, Rodney, and Melanie are consummate professionals with excellent comedic timing. I can’t wait for viewers to see this amazing ensemble,” said Evans.
Character Descriptions
First Lady Lavesta Crawley (Shepard) is the real force behind Pastor Crawley and his pulpit. She is his ride-or-die, genuinely supportive of her husband, providing him with unwavering love and encouragement. As a mother, Levesta can be overbearing but behind her glamorous exterior hides a woman fiercely dedicated to her family and her role as the esteemed First Lady.
Son Demarcus Crawley (Goolsby) is the holier-than-thou assistant pastor and the eldest son who has ambitions to succeed his father as Pastor. But not if Crawley has any say in it.
Michael “MJ” Crawley, Jr. (Benymon), is the younger prodigal son. A talented music producer who failed to hit the big time, MJ finds himself back under his parents’ roof, along with his daughter Brianna (Kali Rose Lewis), and at the organ accompanying the church choir.
Deacon Jones (Perry) met Pastor Crawley when they were serving together in Vietnam. That bond solidified their friendship for life. At the church, Deacon is the pastor’s confidante, providing unwavering support and at times, much needed humor.
Sister Sarah (Comarcho) is a faithful church member who often goes toe-to-toe with the First Lady. She is also Lavesta’s best friend, loyalty personified, and loves the Crawley’s as the family she never had.
Source: Variety
