A new sitcom is debuting on CBS this week, and the show takes inspiration from a Michigan bowler. Yes, it’s true- were here in the Mitten should be proud that we’re providing the premise for a new, national TV show.
The show is called “How We Roll,” formerly known as “Smallwood.” It follows a Michigan man’s journey as he deals with the ups and downs for life.
That man is Tom Smallwood of Saginaw. Smallwood was working a job at the GM Pontiac East Assembly Plant and living a normal Michigan life when he got laid off. A great bowler, Smallwood decided to use his extra time to perfect his bowling skills and become a professional bowler. He ended up winning the PBA Tour in 2009.
“Based on professional bowler Tom Smallwood’s life, stars Pete Holmes as Tom, a stoic Midwest husband and dad who gets laid off from a car assembly line and makes the extraordinary decision to provide for his family by following his dream of becoming a professional bowler,” the official show’s description states. “As a skilled player, Tom knows that in bowling you get two chances; no matter what you do with the first ball, you get another one to make it right—the ultimate second chance. Keeping that in mind, Tom begins his new career with the loving okay from his wife, Jen the unfaltering support of Archie, his mentor and the proud owner of Archie’s Lanes: Home of the Curly Fry, the cautious backing of his protective mom, Helen, and the encouragement of his son, Sam. It remains to be seen if Tom will strike it big on the Pro Bowler circuit, but right now, the pins are set, he’s taking his second shot and it’s 300 or bust!”
According to MLive, Hollywood came to Smallwood about 10 years ago to inquire about his story. He also told the outlet that they had discussed doing a movie and book, but nothing happened- until now. “How We Roll” will debut on CBS at 9:30 p.m. Thursday, March 31. It will also be available to stream on Paramount+ live and on-demand.