Mike Bubbins Eyes Jason Bateman for US Mammoth Role
Comedian and actor Mike Bubbins has expressed that it would "be a dream" to have Arrested Development star Jason Bateman portray his character in the American adaptation of his television show Mammoth.
The series, which was created by and stars Bubbins, returned for a second season last year. A US adaptation is currently in development.
Mammoth centers on Tony Mammoth, an old-school physical education teacher who is trapped in an avalanche in 1979 and subsequently revived in 2024, finding himself in a world that has drastically changed.
Development and Early Interest
Bubbins spoke to Lucy Owen on BBC Radio Wales about the excitement surrounding the adaptation of his show for American audiences.
"The interest came pretty early on but I wasn't allowed to say anything about it,"
he said, revealing that US producers reached out after the first three episodes of the original series had aired.
"You don't expect that phone call,"
added Bubbins, who recently interviewed Wales rugby star Gavin Henson for his BBC show Scrum V Top 5.
"They've got to the script writing stage and it's very exciting,"
he said regarding the US adaptation.
Script Involvement and Casting Considerations
Although Bubbins has provided some notes after reviewing the script, he has ruled himself out from playing the lead role in the American version.
Several actors have been suggested for the role of Tony Mammoth, including Nick Offerman, known for his work on Parks and Recreation.
However, Bubbins has a distinct preference.
"He's really funny and he just makes me laugh,"
Bubbins said of Bateman, who portrayed Michael Bluth in the comedy series Arrested Development and also starred in Ozark.
"As long as they're funny then that's great,"
he added.
Potential Cameo and British Roots
While Bubbins will not reprise his role in the US adaptation, he hopes to make a cameo appearance as a nod to the show's British origins, similar to Ricky Gervais' brief role in the American version of The Office.
BBC Studios and Other Adaptations
Mammoth will be joined by the comedy series Here We Go in being adapted by BBC Studios for the US market.
Josh Cole, chief creative officer of fiction and comedy at BBC Studios, commented on Mammoth's potential.
"Mammoth has a brilliantly unique premise and huge global potential,"
he said.
