Brace yourselves, because it looks like another great TV classic is about to get a modern day reboot!
Black-ish creator Kenya Barris is producing a new ABC show based on the fantasy sitcom series Bewitched, according to Deadline.
The original 1960’s comedy centres around Samantha, a magical witch who tries to fit into the lifestyle of a normal suburban housewife. Played by Elizabeth Montgomery, the show followed Samantha’s exploits as she tried to keep her secret from society, together with husband Darren (Dick York/Dick Sargent).
Carrying the same title as its predecessor, the new Bewitched will focus on a black single mother who tries to find her place in modern day America. Darren will be returning as her (white) mortal husband. The reboot will be shot as a half-hour single camera comedy.
Barris has partnered up with his former Black-ish crew, enlisting writer/producer Yamara Taylor to work on the project. Although the series has only been given a pilot production commitment at this stage, we’re confident we can expect great things to come!
With an air date yet to be set and no leads on who could be cast, TV WEEK throws into the ring our top pics to play Samantha:
Tiffany Haddish
Tiffany Haddish
Apart from being one of our favourite stand-up comedians, we loved Tiffany in her latest role as the wild and crazy Dina in Girls Trip. We’d love to see her sassiness challenge Darren!
Naomie Harris
Naomie Harris
Naomie has made her way into some of Hollywood’s biggest films, including Moonlight, Pirates of the Caribbean and James Bond film’s Skyfall and Spectre. We also can’t help but notice her first TV debut as a child was on a series called Simon and the Witch. It’s meant to be!
Phoebe Robinson
Phoebe Robinson
You will likely recognise the loveable Phoebe from her podcast 2 Dope Queens and in the romantic comedy Ibiza. We love how relatable she is and think she would be able to show all different sides of Samantha’s personality.
Tessa Thompson
Tessa Thompson
Tessa has had a number of award nominations this year for her role in Thor: Ragnarok, and although we love seeing her in serious roles, we equally would love to see her back in comedy. So much potential!
Jessica Williams
Jessica Williams
Jessica, who co-hosts with Phoebe Robinson on their podcast 2 Dope Queens, is also recognised for her time on The Daily Show and Netflix’s The Incredible Jessica James. She’s known to have a softer side, which we think would match up with Samantha’s compassionate personality.
