George Lopez returning to TV with new sitcom

You knew it was only a matter of time before George Lopez resurfaced with a new show.

The actor and stand-up comedian is launching an FX series titled Saint George. The ensemble comedy revolves around “the chaotic life of a recently divorced working class Mexican-American turned successful entrepreneur,” according to the release. In the sitcom, Lopez will portray a man who “struggles to balance his demanding ex-wife, his 11-year-old son, his overbearing mother who just moved in, and his uncle, as well as his new role as a philanthropist ‘giving back’ by teaching history once a week at a night school.”

That’s right: Lopez’ character is working class and a successful entrepreneur and a family man and a school teacher and a philanthropist. Surprised he’s not a fledgling pop singer too.

“I’m excited about my new show, couldn’t think a better group of people or better place to create than FX,” Lopez said. “Now to get ready… back to Pilates!”

Lopez struck a “10/90” deal for the show. That’s where FX orders 10 episodes and if they clear a certain ratings hurdle they automatically agree to order 90 more. The business model was pioneered by Saint George distributor Debmar-Mercury for its Tyler Perry sitcoms on TBS and was more recently used by FX for its Charlie Sheen comedy Anger Management.

Previously Lopez starred in the long-running ABC comedy George Lopez and more recently had a late-night talk show on TBS, Lopez Tonight.

“In the tradition of George’s frank and fearless standup comedy, Saint George will reflect his no-holds-barred comedic take on the tensions surrounding race, class, sex and family life in Los Angeles through the eyes of a man straddling two separate cultures,” Lionsgate Television Group President Kevin Beggs said.