Tina Fey Comedy ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’ Moves From NBC To Netflix

Tina Fey’s upcoming comedy, “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,” is heading to Netflix.

The series, starring “The Office” alum Ellie Kemper, was originally slated to appear on NBC, but will now be seen strictly on the streaming service, Netflix announced on Friday.

NBC Entertainment Chairman Robert Greenblatt issued a statement regarding the comedy’s move, saying, “When the opportunity arose for Tina Fey and Robert Carlock to premiere their new show on Netflix with a two-season commitment, we decided this was the best possible scenario to launch this captivating new series.

“While it was originally developed for NBC, we have a very drama-heavy mid-season schedule so we’re thrilled about this Netflix opportunity; it’s an instant win-win for everyone, including Tina, Robert, and Universal Television,” the statement continued. “We’re already talking to these extraordinary creators about new development for NBC, but meanwhile, everyone here from Universal Television will do everything possible to see that ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’ becomes a long-running hit on Netflix.”

Tina and co-creator Robert Carlock said they are happy to be working with Netflix.

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to debut ‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt’ exclusively on Netflix, which has proven to be such an outstanding place for distinctive, original programming,” Tina and Robert said in their joint statement. “Happily, we will still collaborate with our longtime partners at Universal Television to fulfill Netflix’s two-season order. We grew up at NBC and will continue to develop broadcast projects with them as well. We found the inspiration for this series in Ellie Kemper’s shining all-American face, and we know that she and Kimmy Schmidt have found their best possible home at Netflix.”

The series, which stars Ellie as a woman who escapes from a doomsday cult and gets a fresh start in New York City, will launch a 13-episode run exclusively on Netflix in March 2015.

The show also features “30 Rock” alums Jane Krakowski and Tituss Burgess.

— Erin O’Sullivan