Ray Romano joins Martin Scorsese rock 'n' roll drama pilot

PanARMENIAN.Net - Ray Romano has landed a new small-screen gig. The actor, best known for his titular role on sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond", joins HBO's rock 'n' roll drama pilot from executive producers Martin Scorsese, Mick Jagger, George Mastras and Terence Winter.

Bobby Cannavale and Olivia Wilde were earlier on board the project. The former is set to play Richie Finestra, the founder and president of American Century Records, who is trying to resurrect his label and find the next new sound.

Romano will play Richie's close confidante and right hand man Zak Yankovich, the tough and sharp-witted head of promotions at label American Century with years of experience dating back to the shady, mob-infested days of the recording business.

Wilde will be seen as Richie's wife Devon Finestra, a former actress/model who lived a Bohemian life in 1960s New York. When Richie undergoes a crisis of character as confronted with a life-altering decision, this causes strain on their family and propels her to go back to her former lifestyle.

The yet-to-be-titled drama is set in 1970s New York and explores the drug and sex-fueled music business as punk and disco began to take over. Filming for the pilot is expected to begin in early summer with Scorsese directing.

Romano lent his voice to Manny in "Ice Age" movies and has recurred on NBC's drama comedy "Parenthood" as Hank Rizzoli.