Whedon Teams with Fox for New Show, Fox Promises Not to Cancel it for Seven Episodes

Written by: Big Ross, CC2K Staff Writer

Source: The Hollywood Reporter

Contrary to what George Bush thinks, the old saying goes, "Fool me once, shame on you.  Fool me twice, shame on me."  Fox has already "fooled" Joss Whedon once, and I'm amazed that he's giving them the opportunity to do it again.

But that is precisely what he is doing, as we are getting reports that Whedon (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Firefly, Serenity) is reteaming with Fox to bring another sci-fi series to television.

The project is entitled Dollhouse, and will be starring Buffy-alum Eliza Dushku as Echo, a member of a group of people that get imprinted with different personalities to accomplish different tasks set out for them by whoever it is controlling them (the government? a shady corporation?).  In between tasks they get their minds wiped and live with no memories of any of their pasts.  All goes well until Echo begins to try and re-discover her lost history.  Think Pretender mixed with The Matrix and a dash of Universal Soldier (based on my impression from the limited description). 

Read more after the jump! 

Kevin Reilly, Fox entertainment president, said of receiving Whedon's pitch, "It was a really welcomed surprise."

Really?  No shit.  Maybe because the last time you guys worked together, you butchered his project and canceled his show after a single season despite a passionate fan base and stellar critical reception.  I'll say it again, I'm *amazed* Whedon would ever work with Fox again. 

Dana Walden, chairman of 20th TV, said, "You can imagine a really exciting, timely, emotional show that will be packed with his signature storytelling involving humor, emotions and themes that are relatable."

I imagine these people (or others in their positions) said the same kinds of things when Whedon pitched Firefly, so I'm trying to practice cautious excitement regarding this news.  It definitely sounds like a cool idea, and with Whedon at the helm it's bound to be exceptionally good.  Lightning rarely strikes twice, but it could here, I just hope Fox recognizes that and gives Dollhouse more of a chance than they did Firefly.