David E. Kelley Lands 'Second Luckiest Yes' From Michelle Pfeiffer for New Apple TV Series

The duo team up for the upcoming show 'Margo's Got Money Troubles', based on the best-selling novel by Rufi Thorpe.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Acclaimed writer-producer David E. Kelley and acclaimed actress Michelle Pfeiffer are teaming up for the first time for the new Apple TV+ series 'Margo's Got Money Troubles'. The eight-episode series, based on the best-selling novel by Rufi Thorpe, also stars Elle Fanning, Nick Offerman, and Thaddea Graham. The show follows Fanning's character, a college dropout and aspiring writer, as she navigates a surprise pregnancy, mounting bills, and a lack of cash while dealing with her ex-Hooters waitress mother (Pfeiffer) and ex-pro wrestler father (Offerman).

Why it matters

This marks the first collaboration between Kelley and Pfeiffer, two titans of their respective fields in television and film. The series also represents a high-profile original drama for Apple TV+ as the streamer continues to build out its slate of premium content.

The details

Kelley and Pfeiffer discussed the new series during a panel at Apple's inaugural press day in Santa Monica, where they were joined by the rest of the main cast and executive producer Rufi Thorpe, the author of the novel the show is based on. The series is being produced in partnership with A24.

  • The eight-episode Apple Original series 'Margo's Got Money Troubles' will premiere in 2026.

The players

David E. Kelley

An acclaimed writer-producer known for hit shows like 'Big Little Lies', 'The Practice', and 'Ally McBeal'.

Michelle Pfeiffer

A legendary actress with an Oscar, three Golden Globes, and numerous other accolades, known for films like 'Scarface', 'Batman Returns', and 'The Age of Innocence'.

Elle Fanning

A talented actress known for roles in 'Super 8', 'The Great', and 'Somewhere'.

Nick Offerman

A versatile actor and comedian known for his role as Ron Swanson on 'Parks and Recreation'.

Rufi Thorpe

The author of the best-selling novel 'Margo's Got Money Troubles', on which the new Apple TV+ series is based, and an executive producer on the show.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This high-profile collaboration between acclaimed writer-producer David E. Kelley and legendary actress Michelle Pfeiffer for a new Apple TV+ series based on a best-selling novel represents an exciting addition to the streamer's growing slate of premium original content.