Ray Romano to Star in HBO Max Pilot 'How To Survive Without Me' Alongside Joshua Jackson
The television landscape is buzzing with the announcement that veteran comedian and actor Ray Romano will star in the upcoming HBO Max drama pilot, How To Survive Without Me. He is set to share the screen with Joshua Jackson, marking a significant addition to the project spearheaded by prolific producer Greg Berlanti. This reunion of Jackson and Berlanti, who first rose to prominence with the iconic teen drama Dawson's Creek, promises a compelling exploration of family, grief, and enduring connection.
A Family's Journey Through Loss
How To Survive Without Me centers on the De Angelis family, a unit that begins to fracture in the wake of the matriarch, Beverly's, passing. The pilot delves into the void left by her absence, exploring how the family members struggle to navigate their complex, evolving lives without her guiding presence. However, in a twist that honors Beverly's enduring spirit, she has orchestrated a way to continue influencing events from beyond the grave. The narrative hinges on the family's need to find the time and make the effort to stay connected, ensuring they are there for one another through the inevitable challenges that lie ahead.
Star Power and Character Depth
Joshua Jackson is slated to portray Cooper, a chef on the cusp of opening an exclusive members' dining club in Los Angeles. Cooper's character is deeply intertwined with his mother's legacy, embodying her recipes and culinary philosophy. While he projects an image of confidence and a certain flair, beneath the surface, he harbors a secret that could jeopardize both his lifelong friendships and the esteemed culinary career he has meticulously built in his mother's honor. Ray Romano will take on the pivotal role of the family patriarch, offering his signature gravitas and nuanced performance to the project.
A Creative Reunion and Promising Collaboration
The collaboration between Joshua Jackson and Greg Berlanti holds particular significance. Berlanti began his television career as a staff writer on The WB's Dawson's Creek, which launched Jackson into stardom with his first lead role. Berlanti quickly ascended to executive producer and showrunner status on the series. Their enduring friendship has been evident over the years, with Jackson, alongside Matt Bomer, presenting Berlanti with the Governors Award at the 2024 Emmy Awards, a moment punctuated by the iconic Dawson's Creek theme music. Their shared history was also celebrated at a Dawson's Creek cast reunion last September, honoring fellow star James Van Der Beek.
Industry Excitement and Network Support
Sarah Aubrey, Head of Max Original Programming, expressed her enthusiasm for the project and Jackson's involvement. "We are thrilled to welcome Joshua, who joins Ray Romano in the cast of How To Survive Without Me," Aubrey stated. "It’s especially exciting to see him reunite with creator Greg Berlanti on this intimate, family-driven story. We can’t wait to peel back the layers of these dynamic, raw, and complex characters."
Clancy Collins White, President, Creative Affairs at Warner Bros. Television, echoed this sentiment. "Joshua is a tremendously talented performer who approaches each role with care and range, and we’re delighted to have him join Ray, Greg, and Bash on How To Survive Without Me," White commented. "His presence will beautifully balance the show’s emotional depth with uplifting, heartfelt moments that characterize what it means to be a family. It’s also a joy to see Greg and Joshua continue their creative collaboration on this deeply personal story."
Behind the Scenes and Future Prospects
The pilot is executive produced by Berlanti, Bash Doran, Sarah Schechter, Leigh London Redman, and Robbie Rogers, operating under Berlanti Productions' overall deal with WBTV. Warner Bros. Television is serving as the studio for the project. The script is penned by Berlanti and Doran, based on a story they co-wrote with Robbie Rogers. This ensemble of talent, coupled with the compelling narrative, positions How To Survive Without Me as a strong contender for a series order.
Joshua Jackson's recent work includes headlining Ryan Murphy's ABC series Doctor Odyssey. He is also set to star opposite fellow Dawson's Creek alum Katie Holmes in the upcoming film Happy Hours. His continued presence in prominent television and film projects underscores his enduring appeal and versatility as an actor. The addition of Ray Romano, a beloved figure in comedy and drama, to this ensemble further amplifies the anticipation for what promises to be a resonant and engaging series.
