Netflix Gives Series Order to Comedy ‘Grace And Frankie,’ Starring Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin

Actresses have been taking to television in droves, with the small screen outpacing movies when it comes to offering richer roles for women. And Netflix announced today that its next original series will feature two big screen legends — Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, who will star in “Grace And Frankie,” a half-hour comedy.

Netflix has given a 13-episode order to the series, which was created by Marta Kauffman (who co-created “Friends”) and Howard J. Morris (a writer and producer on “Sullivan & Son”). Fonda and Tomlin play the titular longtime rivals whose lives are turned upside down when their husbands announce that they’re in love and are going to get married.

Kauffman, Morris, Fonda and Tomlin will executive produce the series alongside David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Marcy Ross and Paula Weinstein of Skydance Productions.

“Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin are among the funniest and most formidable actresses ever and it’s an incredible privilege to give them the opportunity to run riot on Netflix,” said Netflix’s Ted Sarandos, “The show created for them by Marta and Howard is warm, very funny and anything but wholesome. We can’t wait.”

Netflix’s other upcoming new original series include the Wachowskis’ “Sense8,” “Marco Polo” and the final season of “The Killing.” “House Of Cards,” “Hemlock Grove” and “Orange Is The New Black” are also returning.