The Neighborhood Spinoff News: Marty & Malcolm Head to Venice Beach

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Written By Victor Mullen

Butler Brothers Trade Pasadena for Venice Beach in New Sitcom

Get ready for some California dreamin’, sitcom fans! Marty and Malcolm Butler, the beloved brothers from CBS’s The Neighborhood, are packing their bags and trading Pasadena for the eclectic vibes of Venice Beach in a brand-new spin-off. This exciting news comes on the heels of the announcement of the Tracy Morgan-led spin-off, Crutch, for Paramount+, marking the second show to branch out from The Neighborhood universe.

The untitled spin-off, slated for the 2025-2026 broadcast season, will see Sheaun McKinney and Marcel Spears reprise their roles as Marty and Malcolm, respectively. The new series promises a fresh take on the familiar brotherly dynamic, exploring the culture clash as the two navigate a predominantly white, affluent community – a reversal of the original series’ premise.

From Cul-de-Sac to Boardwalk: A Comedic Culture Clash

Imagine Marty, the sharp lawyer accustomed to manicured lawns, suddenly surrounded by street performers and skateboarders. And Malcolm, the ever-optimistic entrepreneur, envisioning himself as the next Venice Beach business tycoon. The comedic potential is undeniable. This relocation isn’t just a change of scenery; it’s a complete transformation of their environment, offering a wealth of new comedic situations.

The differences between Pasadena and Venice Beach are stark:

FeaturePasadenaVenice Beach
AtmosphereQuiet, residential, family-orientedVibrant, eclectic, energetic
Pace of LifeRelaxed, predictableFast-paced, spontaneous
Local BusinessesTraditional shops, family-owned restaurantsUnique boutiques, street vendors, art scene
ResidentsEstablished families, professionalsDiverse mix of artists, entrepreneurs, tourists

This drastic shift suggests a tonal change for the spin-off. While The Neighborhood focuses on relatable family dynamics, the Venice Beach setting allows for more eccentric humor and quirky characters, potentially injecting a revitalized energy into the series. Some believe this change of location will allow writers to explore new comedic territories while retaining the heart and humor of the original. It’s possible the show will incorporate flashbacks to Pasadena or visits from familiar faces to maintain ties to the original series.

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Behind the Scenes: Familiar Faces and New Talent

The spin-off boasts a strong creative team. Bill Martin and Mike Schiff, showrunners of the original series, return as writers and executive producers. They’re joined by Cedric the Entertainer, Aaron Kaplan, Wendi Trilling, and Eric C. Rhone, also serving as executive producers.

Casting is underway for three new series regulars who will join Marty and Malcolm in Venice Beach. These characters, a tech genius, a social media influencer, and a cannabis content creator, will undoubtedly add to the comedic mix. While Skye Townsend’s involvement (as Marty’s partner, Courtney) remains uncertain.

Two Spin-offs, Two Networks: A Strategic Expansion?

The existence of two spin-offs, Crutch on Paramount+ and this untitled series on CBS, raises questions about the network’s strategy. It suggests a desire to expand The Neighborhood‘s reach across different platforms. The potential for crossovers and interconnected storylines adds another layer of intrigue for fans.

Looking Ahead: Premiere Date and Backdoor Pilot

While an official premiere date remains unannounced, CBS has earmarked the 2025-2026 broadcast season for the spin-off. The Neighborhood Season 7 finale will serve as a backdoor pilot, offering a first look at Marty and Malcolm’s new lives and introducing the new characters. This episode will be crucial in gauging audience interest and likely influence the network’s decision regarding a full series order.

What are your predictions for the spin-off? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Stay tuned for more updates as they become available.

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