Lethal Weapon, the TV series based on the Mel Gibson and Danny Glover film franchise, has been bought by ITV for broadcast on its main channel.
Acquired from Warner Bros. International Television Distribution, the series tells the story of the cop duo Riggs (Rectify’s Clayne Crawford) and Murtaugh (Emmy nominee Damon Wayans) as they work a crime-ridden beat in modern-day Los Angeles.
During their first case, hot-headed Riggs drags conventional cop Murtaugh on a freeway chase and into a shootout with drug dealers; despite his protests, the older cop feels more alive than he has in years.
Meanwhile, Riggs gets a glimpse of why Murtaugh is so determined to get home safely at the end of each day – he has a family and a newborn baby.
And Murtaugh finds out what happened to Riggs’ marriage, that he sadly lost his young wife and unborn child, and his devil-may-care-attitude hides his grief.
By the time their investigation ends, Riggs realises he may have found something worth living for – a partner and friend in Murtaugh. Even Murtaugh figures this arrangement might just work out after all. If only Riggs doesn’t get them killed first….
The acquisition marks the return of imported shows to ITV’s primetime schedule.
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Director of Television, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be bringing Lethal Weapon to our main channel.
“It’s rare that we find an acquisition with that sweet spot potential – the best production values and hugely entertaining drama, that we think can appeal to the biggest and broadest audiences and take up a place in ITV primetime.
“We saw Lethal Weapon and were immediately excited by what it could add to the ITV schedule, and we’re really looking forward to bringing the series to UK viewers.”
