TruTV, the cable channel owned by Turner Broadcasting, has greenlit a lifestyle series titled Upscale With Prentice Penny that’s being developed by the noted showrunner, writer, and producer in collaboration with Chris Pollack and Jared Hoffman — who serve as heads of TV and OTT development at digital entertainment dynasty Defy Media.
The unscripted half-hour series — in which host Penny will demystify what it takes to live an upscale lifestyle — comprises 12 episodes and premieres next spring. In order to let viewers experience luxury living at bargain prices, episodes will explore how to buy good wine, for instance, or how to find custom-made men’s suits at better prices than off-the-rack garments.
“Like so many people from working class families, I grew up believing that a high-end lifestyle also comes with a high price tag,” Penny said in a statement. “With Upscale, I want to show people that cost and quality aren’t mutually exclusive, and an elevated life can come at every price point.” Adds Marissa Ronca, EVP and head of programming at TruTV: “Prentice’s unique point of view, enviable sense of style, and comedic insights make Upscale truly relatable for everyone.”
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TruTV says its median viewer is aged 32. Penny, who is making his debut in front of the camera with Upscale, currently serves as showrunner for the HBO comedy series Insecure starring Issa Rae, who rose to prominence with her web series Misadventures Of An Awkward Black Girl. Prentice has written for Fox’s Brooklyn Nine-Nine, ABC’s Happy Endings, and UPN’s Girlfriends. He also created and executive produced Fuse’s The Hustle.
