Jerry Seinfeld Brings The Marriage Ref To NBC

Jerry Seinfeld is reteaming with NBC to launch his first reality series. The comedian’s project is tentatively called The Marriage Ref and features celebrities, comedians and athletes who will judge couples in the midst of marital disputes while recommending various strategies to resolve their problems. NBC co-chair Ben Silverman said Seinfeld pitched the show as a companion piece of sorts to his classic sitcom. The comedian increasingly has used married life for material in his stand-up act. So while being a bachelor inspired Seinfeld, the comedian’s married years will inspire his unscripted program. Six one-hour episodes have been ordered for a planned fall release.

Seinfeld appeared on the network in a series of interstitial shorts two years ago to promote his DreamWorks Animation film Bee Movie and appeared on an episode of NBC’s 30 Rock. But this deal marks the first series Seinfeld has committed to since his sitcom aired its series finale in 1998. Seinfeld’s role is behind the camera as an executive producer and creator, but given the show’s celebrity-guest format, it’s not too difficult to imagine an occasional on-camera appearance. Seinfeld’s voice will be evident in the show’s commentaries.