Robert Simonds, who is producing MGM's new "Pink Panther" movie, has signed a first-look deal with studio.
The first project to fall under the new agreement will be a remake of the 1968 family comedy, "Yours, Mine and Ours," which starred Lucille Ball and Henry Fonda. Simonds has just wrapped production on "The Pink Panther," which stars Steve Martin and is set for release next year.
The deal represents something of a homecoming for the producer, who began his career as a production trainee at MGM.
"Bob has one of the best track records of any active producer in Hollywood because of his impeccable eye for talent and fresh ideas," MGM president Chris McGurk said. "Combined with an acute business sense, this makes Simonds the perfect creative partner for MGM."
"Simonds' filmmaking philosophies are very well matched to MGM's," MGM's Michael Nathanson said. "We're both committed to top-notch entertainment produced in a smart, fiscally responsible manner. We look forward to a long and profitable partnership."
"Having just finished principal photography on 'The Pink Panther,' I'm really pleased with my experience working with MGM," Simonds said. "The studio gave us the freedom and support to make the movie we wanted to make, providing a protected, nurturing environment in which to work. We're excited to work with the studio on future projects."
As part of the deal, Tracey Trench, president of The Robert Simonds Co., who is executive producer on Simonds' films, also will come to MGM.