TLC moving into drama with Tyler Perry

Discovery’s female-skewed cable net TLC has ordered its first drama series, Too Close to Home.

The show will be produced by Tyler Perry, the producer and actor who has worked extensively with Discovery’s OWN net.

The eight-part drama will tell the story of a young woman who has escaped her working class to become successful in the fast-paced world of US politics who has to go back to her humble roots after having an affair.

TLC hasn’t announced cast details or a premiere date. The move into scripted was announced as part of the channel’s upfront in New York yesterday.

The other notable programming move was a shift back into homes and property content. It has ordered several new shows in the genre including Married to Design: Nate & Jeremiah, with design couple Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent.

“We tell stories of big, fascinating characters and we tell them without judgment,” said Nancy Daniels, president, TLC and Discovery Life.

“This year we’re also making a big move into the scripted space with Tyler Perry and bringing back our beloved property programming with big names like Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent. We’re beyond excited to introduce our audience to new content and refresh a genre that TLC dominated for years.”