Steve Carell Stars as Helicopter Dad in HBO's 'Rooster'

New comedy series loosely inspired by the work of author Carl Hiaasen

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Steve Carell stars in the new HBO comedy series 'Rooster' as Greg Russo, an author struggling to let his young adult daughter Katie leave the nest. The series was developed by Carell along with Bill Lawrence and Matt Tarses, the creators behind shows like 'Scrubs' and 'Ted Lasso'. In a press conference, the showrunners and cast discussed the show's origins and Carell's approach to playing the overprotective father character.

Why it matters

The new HBO series 'Rooster' explores the complex and often comedic dynamics between parents and their adult children, a relatable theme for many viewers. Carell's involvement as the lead actor and producer also brings additional star power and creative vision to the project.

The details

Loosely inspired by the work of bestselling author Carl Hiaasen, 'Rooster' follows Greg Russo, an author played by Steve Carell, who is having a hard time letting his daughter Katie, played by Charly Clive, become more independent and leave home. The series was developed by Carell along with Bill Lawrence and Matt Tarses, the creative team behind shows like 'Scrubs' and 'Ted Lasso'.

  • The new HBO series 'Rooster' premieres on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

The players

Steve Carell

An acclaimed actor known for comedic roles in shows like 'The Office' and films like 'The 40-Year-Old Virgin', Carell stars as the lead character Greg Russo and also serves as a producer on the series.

Bill Lawrence

A veteran television writer and producer, Lawrence co-created 'Rooster' and has previously worked on hit shows like 'Scrubs' and 'Ted Lasso'.

Matt Tarses

A writer and producer who has collaborated with Bill Lawrence on multiple projects, Tarses co-created 'Rooster' alongside Lawrence and Carell.

Charly Clive

A rising young actress, Clive plays the role of Katie, the daughter of Carell's character Greg Russo.

Danielle Deadwyler

An accomplished actress, Deadwyler has a supporting role in 'Rooster' alongside the main cast.

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What they’re saying

“We found we are all right now wrestling with what it means to be the parent of a young woman entering adulthood who maybe does not want you in their life as much as you would choose to be intrusive and be in their life and control every aspect of it.”

— Bill Lawrence, Co-creator of 'Rooster'

“Sometimes the pilot tries to tell you too much about the characters and doesn't leave any room for where they're going. Because we don't know where they're gonna go, they don't necessarily know where they're gonna go.”

— Steve Carell

What’s next

The new HBO comedy series 'Rooster' will premiere on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 10 p.m. Eastern Time.

The takeaway

With its talented cast led by Steve Carell and creative team behind hit shows like 'Scrubs' and 'Ted Lasso', 'Rooster' promises to deliver a fresh and humorous take on the complex relationship between parents and their adult children.