Full Breakdown
Amazon MGM Studios Develops 'Playing the Field' Series
4/14/2026, 1:05:39 PM
Overview of the Series Development
Amazon MGM Studios is in the process of developing a new television series titled *Playing the Field*, which is based on the sports romance novel *Cleat Cute* by Meryl Wilsner. The show will be an ensemble comedy that explores the dynamic and often complicated lives of four female soccer players on the Crescent City, a professional women's soccer team based in New Orleans. Central to the narrative is the romantic tension between newly drafted star Phoebe Matthews and team captain Grace Henderson.
Key Figures Involved
Sarah Tapscott has been appointed as the showrunner, executive producer, and writer for *Playing the Field*. She is joined by a team of executive producers that includes Jeff Wachtel and Jared Berenholz from Future Shack Entertainment, as well as notable athletes Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe, who are producers under A Touch More. Meryl Wilsner, the author of the source material, is also involved in the project, alongside Camille Bernier-Green and Emily Rasenick.
Background of the Source Material
The novel *Cleat Cute*, published by Macmillan in September 2023, serves as the foundation for the series. Meryl Wilsner is recognized for her contemporary romances that often feature queer characters, with previous works including *Something to Talk About* and *Mistakes Were Made*. Wilsner's literary contributions have garnered attention for their representation of LGBTQ+ relationships.
Production Insights
Sarah Tapscott has a background in producing and writing for various television projects, including *The Sex Lives of College Girls* and *New Girl*. Her experience in the industry positions her well to lead this new series. Tapscott is represented by UTA and Ken Richman at Hansen, Jacobson, Teller.
Why It Matters
*Playing the Field* aims to highlight the experiences of women in sports, particularly in soccer, a field that has seen increasing visibility and support in recent years. By focusing on the personal and professional lives of female athletes, the series seeks to contribute to the ongoing conversation about gender representation in sports media.
Official Statements & Responses
While specific statements from the production team have not been released, the involvement of prominent figures like Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe suggests a commitment to authentic representation of women's sports and the challenges faced by female athletes.
What's Next
As the project progresses, further details regarding casting, filming schedules, and release dates are anticipated. The series is expected to resonate with audiences interested in sports narratives that emphasize both competition and personal relationships.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Playing the Field is an ensemble comedy following the sexy, messy, and exciting lives of four female players on Crescent City, a professional New Orleans women’s soccer team, anchored by the will-they-won’t-they romance of newly drafted phenom Phoebe Matthews and team captain Grace Henderson.” — Amazon MGM Studios
- “A bestselling author of contemporary romances featuring queer folks who love women, Wilsner’s other books include Something to Talk About, Mistakes Were Made, and USA Today bestseller My Best Friend’s Honeymoon.” — Deadline
This development marks a significant step in diversifying the representation of women in sports through mainstream media, promising a blend of humor, romance, and athleticism.
