CBS has recently announced its decision to move forward with its long-term development strategy by ordering another pilot for the upcoming 2025-26 broadcast season. This new pilot, titled Einstein (working title), comes from the creative minds behind the popular series Monk, including creator/executive producer Andy Breckman and director/executive producer Randy Zisk. This pilot is just one of the latest additions to the network’s lineup, which also includes the previously ordered comedy pilot DMV and the development room for comedy series Eternally Yours (working title).
Einstein (working title) marks the third attempt at adapting the German procedural series Einstein for CBS, and the fourth overall attempt. This time, the show’s premise focuses on the great grandson of Albert Einstein, who, despite being brilliant, finds himself in trouble due to his rebellious behavior. He is then enlisted to assist a local police detective in solving complex cases, drawing comparisons to the hit series Monk as well as CBS’s earlier drama Numbers. With Andy Breckman penning the pilot and Randy Zisk set to direct, the show promises to bring a fresh perspective to the procedural genre.
The road to creating the U.S. version of Einstein has been a long one. Initially spearheaded by Tariq Jalil of Intrigue, the project has gone through multiple iterations since 2018. From the earlier version developed by Michael Reisz for NBC to the subsequent adaptations by Breckman and Zisk for CBS, the show has evolved over time. The latest incarnation, based on the 2015 German series, brings a new set of challenges and opportunities for the creative team.
CBS’s recent shift in development strategy, as highlighted by CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach, signals a departure from the traditional model of pilot season. Instead of adhering to the typical January-May window for pilot orders, CBS is now taking a more flexible approach, aiming to capitalize on opportunities throughout the year. This move allows the network to be more strategic in its decision-making process, ensuring that each new project has the best possible chance of success.
By ordering pilots and setting up development rooms well in advance of the intended broadcast season, CBS is positioning itself for long-term success. This proactive approach not only provides more time for production and marketing efforts but also allows for greater creative freedom and collaboration. With a lineup of diverse and innovative projects in the pipeline, CBS is poised to continue its legacy as a leader in the television industry.
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