NBC has officially given a pilot order for a reboot of Problem Child, the classic 1990s comedy film that revolved around a mischievous young boy and the chaos he causes for his adoptive parents. Known for its over-the-top humor and lovable yet wildly uncontrollable main character, the original movie became a cult favorite, spawning sequels and even a short-lived animated series. Now, the reboot aims to bring that same rebellious energy to a modern TV audience.
The new series is being developed as a single-camera family comedy, with an updated take on the familiar premise. According to early details, the reboot will stay true to the core themes of the original — parental frustration, chaotic family dynamics, and slapstick comedy — while refreshing the storytelling and humor to suit today’s viewers. NBC’s move signals a continued interest in mining nostalgia to create content with built-in audience appeal.
This pilot order is part of a broader trend among networks to revisit successful film properties and reimagine them for the small screen. With proven name recognition, Problem Child offers a strong foundation to build on, especially in a competitive content market where originality is often balanced with familiarity. NBC is likely betting that the mix of comedy and chaos will strike a chord with both older fans and younger viewers.
While casting details are still under wraps, the production team reportedly includes names with experience in family sitcoms and comedic storytelling. If the tone lands right — edgy enough to be entertaining, but heartwarming enough to be relatable — Problem Child could carve out a place in NBC’s comedy lineup. That said, it’ll need to distinguish itself from other reboots by offering something genuinely fun and updated.
As networks compete to find their next big hit, Problem Child stands out as a playful, if risky, candidate. Whether it ends up being a surprise success or a nostalgic misfire, NBC’s decision to greenlight the pilot shows they’re not afraid to roll the dice on familiar chaos.