More information regarding Michael’s much talked about new sitcom has been revealed over the weekend.  Michael will star as newscaster Mike Burnaby, a husband and father of three who returns to work after time off to address his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease – a story line that draws from his real life.  The single-camera comedy is tentatively scheduled for the coveted Thursday night line-up on NBC.  So far actor Wendell Pierce, who starred in both HBO’s “The Wire” and “Treme” series, has been cast as Michael’s boss and we anticipate more cast announcements in the weeks to come.

There is still speculation around whether Michael is on a new drug that is now allowing him to return to acting but as the Foundation addressed back in August, the right combination of current medication with an active lifestyle is helping him better manage the disease symptoms.  And although a recent Associated Press article mentions that Parkinson’s has garnered “pity-fueled admiration” for Michael, we gently disagree.  We at the Foundation and beyond find his courage a source of inspiration and optimism for those living with the disease and those who work tirelessly looking for a cure.

Stay tuned as more details of the show unfold and when to schedule your DVR for the fall.  For now, you can catch Michael talking more about his new show to David Letterman this Thursday night on CBS.