Exclusive: Daniel Stern Exit Sparks Recasting for ABC Comedy Pilot
In a surprising turn for ABC’s comedy lineup, Daniel Stern has been dropped from the network’s pilot Do You Want Kids? The project, produced by 20th Television and starring Rachel Bloom and Rory Scovel, is moving forward with a recast of the series-regular role, according to sources close to the situation.
The decision comes after allegations surrounding Stern’s conduct surfaced in connections to solicitations of prostitution. While details remain under review, the network and production team chose to replace the actor to safeguard the show’s creative direction and public image as production schedules proceed.
What We Know About the Situation
Deadline reported the exclusive news that Stern would not be part of the pilot’s ongoing shooting and that the network is actively seeking a replacement. ABC and 20th Television have not released a formal statement detailing the reasons beyond noting the recasting is definitive for the role. As with many high-profile TV attempts, a quick and clean recast is crucial to keep the pilot on track for a potential series order.
Actors attached to Do You Want Kids? include a talented ensemble led by Bloom and Scovel, with Stern previously set to appear in a key series-regular capacity. Do You Want Kids? centers on family dynamics, career ambitions, and the evolving conversation around parenthood in modern life. The premise offered a space for sharp humor and heartfelt moments, qualities broadcasters hope will translate into a full-season pickup.
Recasting the Series-Regular Role
Industry insiders say the network intends to cast a replacement who can immediately integrate into the show’s rhythm, chemistry with Bloom and Scovel, and the overall tone the writers developed. Recasting a series-regular mid-news season is not unprecedented, but it requires careful coordination with writers, directors, and the broader production team to preserve continuity for the pilot’s arc.
For viewers, the casting change might shift some on-screen dynamics, but the core premise and pilot structure remain intact. The production schedule is reportedly adapting to accommodate a new actor while still meeting the deadlines for delivery to ABC executives and potential streaming partners.
Impact on the Cast and Crew
With Stern no longer part of the project, the cast—including lead stars and supporting players—will adjust their on-set chemistry. Writers may also tweak scenes or dialogue to harmonize with the new actor’s strengths. These adjustments, while challenging, are common in the development process as networks refine their pilot slate ahead of a formal green light or series pickup.
Industry observers note that ABC’s decision aligns with a broader trend in television where studios prioritize long-term brand health and audience trust, especially on projects with high visibility. The network’s swift recasting aims to minimize delays and preserve momentum as audiences anticipate fall programming.
What This Means for Do You Want Kids?
Do You Want Kids? remains positioned as a potential addition to ABC’s fall lineup, contingent on the pilot’s success and the network’s confidence in its creative direction. Rachel Bloom and Rory Scovel remain the show’s most visible anchors, and their performances will anchor the storytelling as producers secure a new regular to fill Stern’s role.
As production continues, fans and trade press alike will be watching closely how the new cast member integrates into the pilot’s narrative arc and how this change may affect the show’s marketability both in traditional broadcast and potential streaming windows.
Conclusion
The departure of a principal cast member is never ideal, but it is a familiar hurdle in TV development. ABC, along with 20th Television, is actively managing the recasting process to maintain the pilot’s momentum and preserve the integrity of the creative vision. If the recasting succeeds, Do You Want Kids? could still become a strong addition to ABC’s comedy slate, buoyed by its lead talents and the audience curiosity surrounding the premise.
