Michael Shannon replaced by John C. Reilly for untitled HBO Lakers pilot

Problems with the currently untitled LA Lakers pilot from HBO have arisen before production has even started due to “creative differences”.

There is much excitement and anticipation about the creation of the currently untitled LA Lakers project from HBO. A company that throughout the years has solidly established itself as creating the pinnacle of television shows. Therefore the program, formerly known as Showtime, will almost certainly supply quality and entertainment.

Back in April, the project had that title. Presumably, HBO chose to change it, despite the reference to the showy 1980s Lakers, because it is also their chief streaming service rival’s name. I’m just calling it the show formerly known as Showtime.

Anyway, as previously stated HBO has a plethora of incredible dramas and comedies already under its belt. Sport has also been a favored, exceptional output; the 30 for 30 specials were particularly great. Now with this true-life inspired effort – expect it to be an amalgam of all genres.

Showtime’s change in cast

Michael Shannon was originally cast in ‘Showtime‘ to play owner Jerry Buss. Though he has now been replaced by John C. Reilly. It’s a shame Shannon has left, for what Hollywood Reporter’s sources describe as “creative differences”. Mainly because he is a definite shining light of his acting generation.

Shannon won a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series for Boardwalk Empire; in which his hauntingly funny portrayal of a corrupt, yet pious, FBI Agent was terrific.

Anyone of that talent is a loss, however, most TV/movie fans on planet earth will love the inimitable Reilly. Who should be an excellent addition, in terms of rapport with the production staff and prowess in front of the camera. He is a man who brings joy to the screen and has collaborated with the project’s executive producer and director Adam McKay several times before, encouragingly.

Based on Jeff Pearlman’s book Showtime: Magic, Kareem, Riley, and the 1980s Los Angeles Lakers Dynasty – the pilot will almost certainly be ‘must-watch’. Another fan favorite, Jason Clarke, is playing manager Jerry West.

What do you think of the recasting? Be sure to tell us in the comment section below!