Freeform television has added a second show to it’s growing superhero lineup. New Warriors, Marvel’s first live action, scripted comedy, has been ordered straight-to-series, and it joins the previously announced Cloak & Dagger on the Disney-owned network.
The Freeform version of the New Warriors follows the precedent set by the cartoon Ultimate Spider-Man, and will add fan-favorite Squirrel Girl to the team — a airing that never happened in the comics.
“Marvel’s New Warriors have always been fan favorites and now particularly with the addition of Squirrel Girl, they are Marvel Television favorites as well,” Marvel Television President Jeff Loeb said. “After the amazing experience we’ve had with Freeform on Marvel’s Cloak & Dagger we can’t think of a better place for our young heroes.”
The Hollywood Reporter asked Karey Burke, executive vice-president of programming and development at Freeform, whether there had been any discussion about casting actors Anna Kendrick or Shannon Purser — both of whom have expressed interest in the role — as Squirrel Girl. “Those names have come up!,” Burke confirmed. “This network has made a lot of stars and we’re in a unique position with Squirrel Girl and Marvel. The character is such a calling card. I’m interested to see if name actresses feel right for it.”
Kevin Biegel (Cougar Town) is near a deal to pen the script and serve as showrunner. The network has ordered 10 episodes for the half-hour comedy, which is set to debut in 2018.