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New York: Yahoo's latest slate of original programming is led by Ed Helms as a 4-inch-tall crime fighter.
"Tiny Commando," created by the "The Office" star, was unveiled Monday night in a presentation by Yahoo to advertisers in New York. It stars Helms, along with Zachary Levi, of "Chuck," and Gillian Jacobs, of "Community."
Following in Netflix's footsteps, Yahoo will simultaneously release all episodes of "Tiny Commando" and other comedy series this fall.
Yahoo, based in Sunnyvale, California, also will debut a series titled "Losing Your Virginity With John Stamos," in which the former "Full House" actor interviews celebrities about their first sexual experiences. Documentary filmmaker Morgan Spurlock executive produces.
Along with YouTube, Netflix and Hulu, Yahoo has sought in recent years to expand into original programming - mainly short-form Web series - that draws users to its platform. Erin McPherson, Yahoo vice president and head of video, said the company has more than doubled its original video programming in the last year.
Yahoo's presentation Monday was part of this week's Digital Content NewFronts, at which digital media companies lay out their programming plans much like TV broadcasters do every spring. Last year, Yahoo touted its most high-profile series: Tom Hanks' sci-fi, animated "Electric City." While "Electric City" was widely judged a dud, Yahoo has found a modest hit in "Burning Love," a parody of "The Bachelor" now beginning its third season.
Also part of this year's slate is Cheryl Hines, a star of "Curb Your Enthusiasm." Hines and Rachael Harris will star in "We Need Help," a comedy in which the two actresses exploit a shared personal assistant.
Yahoo announced that beginning this summer it's partnering with the WWE to make the Web portal an online hub for professional wrestling videos. Yahoo will produce a 30-minute pre-show to the WWE's "Monday Night Raw" and distribute two weekly wresting series.
Last week, Yahoo announced a deal to stream "Saturday Night Live" archival clips.
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