Parenthood set for US television

Steve Martin was the star of the original 1989 film

A small screen version of the hit comic film Parenthood is to be made for US television network NBC.

The serial, which will be produced by original director Ron Howard, is among a number of programmes being unveiled in a bid to reverse a ratings downturn.

NBC has announced six new series in total, including two medical dramas to replace ER, and Day One, a drama set in the wake of a global catastrophe.

Advertising revenue is down in the US as a result of the recession.

Chase's return

Angela Bronstad, NBC's head of primetime entertainment, said it was "absolutely critical" the network had some new hits to support its current programmes.

The broadcaster, which has unveiled its new line-up two weeks before its rivals, has been plagued by poor peak-time ratings for some time.

Chevy Chase (right) is making his return to TV

As well as its new series, existing drama Heroes will make a return.

Medical serial Trauma centres on the lives of a group of San Francisco paramedics, while Mercy is set in a hospital, with the storylines seen through nurses' eyes.

The new offerings are being seen as "dramas making people feel good about their lives".

Actor Chevy Chase will also make a return to the small screen in Community, a sitcom set in a college.

Negotiations with advertisers will begin as soon as all four major US networks have announced their detailed schedules, with some $9bn (£5.9bn) advertising time on offer.