Cosby Show producer in BBC deal

Caryn Mandabach has already started work on one script

The US TV comedy producer behind hits The Cosby Show and Roseanne has signed a deal to make sitcoms for the BBC.

Caryn Mandabach will work with Mark Freeland, the BBC's head of comedy commissioning, to develop five comedy scripts for the corporation.

She already has one script in development with writer Simon Nye, the creator of Men Behaving Badly.

"I've been a fan of British comedy for all my career," Ms Mandabach, who also produced 3rd Rock From The Sun, said.

'Brilliant track record'

"I'm overjoyed to have the opportunity to work with so many great artists and for such a legendary institution."

The deal has also prompted Mandabach to start a UK company, Caryn Mandabach Productions.

The company will retain ownership of all projects and their respective formats. The financial details of the BBC deal have not been disclosed.

BBC head of comedy commissioning Mark Freeland said: "The BBC is delighted to be in business with someone as uniquely dynamic and productive as Caryn.

"With her brilliant track record and nose for mainstream hits, we hope that she will complement all the work we already do with UK comedy talent."