Mike Epps is taking on the lead role alongside Nia Long in Uncle Buck on ABC.
Epps will be playing a role that was previously portrayed by John Candy in the 1989 John Hughes movie. Uncle Buck is a new all African-American ABC comedy.
The show will be based on the original movie. It centers around a childish man who takes care of his brother’s kids, and in the process he learns how to act like an adult. Mike Epps will star as Buck Russell, that lovable and childish uncle. Epps’ character practically raised his brother Will, and he is now the caretaker of Will’s children.
Nia Long is co-starring as Will’s wife, Alexis. Her character mentors at-risk girls through a nonprofit that she organized.
Steven Cragg and and Brian Bradley will write and produce. Alongside to produce this ABC comedy is Will Packer. Uncle Buck originates from ABC Studios,Universal Television and Packer’s banner. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Phil Traill will direct.
Mike Epps’ credits include Starz’s Survivor’s Remorse, The Hangover and Resident Evil: Apocalypse. He’s represented by CAA, Industry Entertainment and Morris Yorn.
Nia Long is represented by Intellectual Artists Management and Stone Meyer. She is best known for The Best Man Wedding, Single Moms Club and TV’s The Divide and House of Lies.