Upfronts 2010: MTV Picks Up 'Teen Wolf,' 'Skins'

Scripted-programming initiative continues with spin-off of 1985 Michael J. Fox film, adaptation of British series

By Marisa Guthrie -- Broadcasting & Cable, 5/20/2010 5:49:06 PM

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MTV's scripted initiative continues with green lights for two new series: a spin-off of the cult film Teen Wolf and an adaptation of the British series Skins. The network announced the pickups May 20. Both series will begin production this summer. MTV has ordered 12 episodes of Teen Wolf and 13 episodes of Skins. 

"MTV is serious about being in the scripted business, and these two new series are among the first steps in what will be a concentrated effort to add more scripted entertainment to our diverse slate, all created with our core demographic in mind," David Janollari, MTV's executive VP of scripted development, said in a statement.

Teen Wolf is a spin-off of the 1985 movie starring Michael J. Fox. The MTV version will have Tyler Posey in the title role. It's a co-production with MGM. The pilot was directed by Russell Mulcahy (Highlander) and written by Jeff Davis (creator of Criminal Minds). Executive Producers include Davis, Marty Adelstein (Prison Break) and Michael Thorn of Lost Marbles TV and René Echevarria (Medium, Castle).

Skins is about a group of high school friends navigating life and love with questionable role models in their parents and teachers. MTV also has the US rights to the UK series, which is currently in its fifth season. The US version will be produced by the same creative team, Bryan Elsley and Jamie Brittain. It will feature an unknown ensemble cast and will enlist real teens to help craft the storylines.

Skins is a co-production with E1 Entertainment and Company Pictures, a division of ALL3MEDIA, the same company that produces the Channel 4 series in the UK.