Nicholas Sparks To Produce Semi-Autobiographical Comedy For ABC

Best-selling romance novelist Nicholas Sparks has sold his first half-hour comedy project. The Next Chapter, written by Austin

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Winsberg (Gossip Girl, The Sound Of Music Live!), hails from Warner Bros TV and Sparks’ studio-based Nicholas Sparks Prods. Loosely based on Sparks’ new life as a single man, The Next Chapter centers on top-selling romance novelist Ben Diamond who goes through a divorce and not only begins to question his belief in love, but he also must learn to date again and live on his own — all while dealing with the pressures of his public persona as the world’s most foremost “expert” on love. Sparks, who in January announced separation from his wife of 25 years, executive produces with Winsberg and Nicholas Sparks Prods.’ Theresa Park.

Winsberg’s First Date The Musical finished its run on Broadway earlier this year. He also is developing the music-themed Hearts And Clubs at ABC Family with Christina Aguilera executive producing. He is repped by Underground, CAA and Michael Shenkman at Bloom Hergott.

Sparks also has an adaptation of his popular book The Notebook in the works at the CW.

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