Judd Apatow signs three-movie deal with Universal
Story by Jack Foley
JUDD Apatow has signed a three movie deal with Universal Pictures on the eve of the US release of his latest comedy Funny People.
The writer-director has yet to announce his next project but intends to write and direct each of the three pictures that form part of the deal, according to Variety.
Although he produces for other studios, Apatow’s directorial efforts – including The 40-Year-Old Virgin and Knocked Up – have all been released through Universal and the studio is keen to develop that relationship in light of the box office success of those movies.
Marc Shmuger, chairman of Universal, told Variety: “I feel like we’re growing with him and watching him mature as a filmmaker, and that is a thrilling thing to be part of… It has become a true collaboration and partnership.”
Apatow added: “Everyone at Universal has been incredibly supportive of my directing career since day one. I’m thrilled I am able to continue that relationship.”
Funny People is a $75 million comedy drama starring Adam Sandler as a stand-up comedian who gets a second chance in life following a near-death experience. It co-stars Apatow regulars Seth Rogen, Jonah Hill and his wife, Leslie Mann. Watch the trailer
It opens in UK cinemas on 28 August.
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