THE BLUES BROTHERS coming to the small screen

The Blues Brothers are making their way to the small screen. Variety reports that a TV show is in the works based on the characters that John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd made famouse. Universal owns the film rights and Aykroyd and Judy Belushi -- John's ex-wife own the TV rights. The new pilot has been penned by Belushi and former "Saturday Night Live" writer Anne Beatts, along with Wayne Catania and Kieron Lafferty.

The story is said to follow "the pair out of jail and Elwood, who was raised in an orphanage, looking for his real dad." At this time, no other details are known about the project, with casting still undetermined. The project will be exec produced by Beatts, Belushi and Eric Gardner of Panacea Entertainment. Aykroyd is going to lend his voice to the project as Jake and Elwood's parole officer.

Here is what Judy Belushi had to say:

"I think these are great American characters. We want to keep them alive. We chose to introduce them as new characters but do it in an way that they have some history, have some life behind them."

Each episode will feature a musical number, with a new Blues Brothers band. "It would be 'Route 66' meets 'Glee,' and it all goes to hell in a handbasket," The producers are hoping to have "branding opportunities for Blues Brothers merchandise, including the Bluesmobile."

As a fan of Blues Brothers I am a bit annoyed to hear that they plan on Gleeing this series. I can not stand Glee and do not like that comparison. Casting is very important for the success of this series. What are your thoughts?