Lauren Graham Signs with NBC

NBC Entertainment and Universal Media Studios have signed movie and television star Lauren Graham ("Gilmore Girls," "Evan Almighty") to a one-year exclusive talent and development deal.

The deal was announced today by Ben Silverman, Co-Chairman, NBC Entertainment and Universal Media Studios, and Marc Hirschfeld, Executive Vice President, Casting.

Said Silverman: "Lauren Graham is a fantastic actress and brilliant comedic voice. She's so respected in the industry and is a huge get for us. She's sure to be one of our next big NBC stars and we couldn't be more thrilled to be working with her."

"I cast Lauren on 'NewsRadio,' '3rd Rock from the Sun' and 'Seinfeld' early on in her career," added Hirschfeld. "I've been pursuing her aggressively for the past several years after her outstanding work on "Gilmore Girls." She truly is a gifted television comedy star and we are thrilled to have her back on NBC."

"I'm thrilled and flattered to be working with NBC. I am impressed by Ben Silverman's taste and vision for the network, and grateful to have had Marc Hirschfeld's support over the years. Also, after having spent so many years representing the frog on The WB, I am especially comforted to be part of the only other network with an animal mascot."