“We always speak of having distinct voices at HBO, and few in the industry are as unique and intelligent as Russell,” HBO Programming President Michael Lombardo said in a statement. “He’s been a part of our family for a long time, and we are so pleased to be continuing our relationship.”
Simmons’ new media company All Def Digital will work on several projects for HBO, including a 25th anniversary special of Def Comedy Jam, with Simmons producing alongside Stan Lathan. An all-star lineup of comedians is expected to participate.
“HBO has been like a home to me for a generation,” Simmons said. “I am enormously proud of the broad range of programming they have nurtured. Together, we have discovered new voices and helped launch emerging artists that deserved a mainstream platform. I am even more excited by the next generation of talent and shows that we are developing through All Def Digital TV.”
HBO and ADD are also developing comedy reality series “These Are My Friends,” from indie filmmaker Shaka King, following real-life hip hop artists struggling to keep their dream alive.
Another project, “The Broken Lizard Show” will take an innovative and comedic look at race when, hundreds of years in the future, a space ship exploring the galaxy discovers the last white man in the universe.
The new deal also includes Simmons producing the previously announced “Codes of Conduct,” a six-part limited from “12 Years a Slave” director Steve McQueen.
Simmons’ relationship with HBO dates back to 1992, when he co-created “Def Comedy Jam,” which helped launch the careers of Jamie Foxx, Chris Tucker, Martin Lawrence, Bernie Mac, Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart and other prominent comedians.
