ABC picks up Sonya Walger's new Show

ABC has officially picked up drama "Flash Forward."

The show, which already is being promoted on the network, received a 13-episode order Friday night.

Based on Robert J. Sawyer's novel, the Joseph Fiennes-starring series chronicles the aftermath of a global event in which everyone in the world blacks out for 2 minutes, 17 seconds and has mysterious visions of six months into the future.

David Goyer and Brannon Braga co-wrote the pilot for "Flash," which Goyer directed.

Both will exec produce the series, but because of his commitment to Fox's "24," where he is an exec producer, Braga won't be involved full time on "Flash."

"Eli Stone" co-creator/exec producer Marc Guggenheim has come on board as exec producer and will run the series with Goyer.

Also exec producing are Jessika Goyer, Vince Gerardis and Ralph Vicinanza.

ABC has been the most aggressive among the broadcast networks, handing out early series pickups to its strongest pilots.

The pickup for "Flash" came hours after the network brass screened it to a strong reception. It follows ABC's Thursday order of new comedy "Modern Family."

In addition to Fiennes, the cast of "Flash" includes Sonya Walger, John Cho, Jack Davenport, Brian O'Byrne, Courtney B. Vance, Christine Woods, Zachary Knighton and Peyton List.

With ABC's pilot screenings slated to wrap Monday, other hot prospects at the network include mystery drama "Happy Town" and Jerry Bruckheimer's "The Unknown," both enjoying rave reviews. Also going strong are the Courteney Cox-starring comedy "Cougar Town" as well as the contemporary witch take "Eastwick."

Another remake, "V," is heading into its Monday screening with a strong buzz, with dramas "Empire State" and "Limelight" also in contention.

On the comedy side, the Patricia Heaton starrer "The Middle," which was filmed months ago, is picking up heat after a solid screening.

Three pilots also have something going for them -- the strong presence of stars Alyssa Milano ("Romantically Challenged"), Kelsey Grammer ("untitled Kelsey Grammer project") and Cedric The Entertainer ("The Law").

Source: Hollywood Reporter