Deadline is reporting that the proposed ABC show entitled "Weird Desk" has been shelved; speculation points to Marvel causing this delay. "Weird Desk," which is about a secret group that investigates cases too strange for the CIA and FBI, might be too close in premise and target demographic to the upcoming "S.H.I.E.L.D." for the comic book company's liking. The show based in the superhero world might tie ABC's hands too tightly.
Holding off the weird
While the full basis of "S.H.I.E.L.D." has yet to be released, if the show follows the comics, viewers should expect the characters to investigate and neutralize a supervillain from time to time. Many of the supervillains in the Marvel Universe have supernatural or superhuman powers, so a show such as "Weird Desk," which apparently follows the formula established in the early years of "The X-Files," might be too similar. ABC will have to hold off on shows that incorporate weird enemies to keep Marvel happy.Superheroes
The new version of "The Incredible Hulk" on ABC has been pushed off as the show's creators wait for a particular writer. Marvel and ABC might also worry that another superhero show on the network right now could inundate ABC with too many superhuman powers. Even if the awaited writer becomes available, the two Disney-owned companies might decide to hold off on Ol' Greenie until "S.H.I.E.L.D." has become established enough, and fans seem ready for another superhero show on the network.Comic book based
Extending past "The Incredible Hulk," Marvel might worry about another comic book-based show coming onto the network other than "S.H.I.E.L.D." "The Walking Dead" officially ushered in a new era of networks looking to comics for inspiration and money. The largest comic book company in the world would not want to take away clout on the network when it comes to the comic book-based market. ABC has already shelved "AKA Jessica Jones" and "Cloak and Dagger." Maybe the network only wants its sister company working on one show at a time.Pressure
If Marvel and ABC are holding off on particular types of shows due to the anticipated success of "S.H.I.E.L.D.," more pressure is put on the creators of the show. If the show does not deliver, Disney is going to come down on both Marvel and ABC for all the types of shows passed on. While a large loss on "S.H.I.E.L.D." might be minuscule for Disney, corporations never like to lose money or be given poor advice that limits possible revenue streams.More from this contributor:
How important is Marvel's 'S.H.I.E.L.D.' to ABC?
Ups and downs: 'The Incredible Hulk' waiting on a writer
If 'S.H.I.E.L.D.' falters, Marvel crashes
