Friend of ACORN Gets New Series on A&E

A&E has greenlit "Cleaner," starring Benjamin Bratt, its first original scripted drama in more than six years.

Bratt, returning to regular TV work for the first time since NBC's short-lived "E-Ring," will play extreme interventionist William "The Cleaner" Banks.

Inspired by a true story, Banks suffers from his own additions, but after the birth of his twins, he strikes a deal with God to get the various monkeys off his back (figurative monkeys, not literal) in exchange for dedicating his life to help other people kick their habits [the A&E press release adds "...by any means necessary"].

"We're excited to launch our first original scripted drama series in some time with 'Cleaner,'" says Bob DeBitetto, A&E's executive vice president and general manager. "With an exceptional lead character, strong ensemble and superb emotional storytelling, the series will be a great companion to A&E's current programming of hit real-life series and popular off-net dramas."

A&E hopes to have episodes of "Cleaner," executive produced by Jonathan Prince ("American Dreams") ready to premiere this summer.

The cable network is also moving forward on developing several additional scripted dramas. Pilots have already been shot for "The Beast," starring Patrick Swayze, and "Under," with Henry Thomas. "Danny Fricke," which features Connie Nielsen, will shoot soon.