Netflix Makes Preemptive Deal for ‘Wingmom’ Comedy Spec Written by ‘Ghosts’ Co-EP Sam Laybourne

Netflix has made a preemptive acquisition of “Wingmom,” a comedy film script written by Sam Laybourne, according to Deadline. The deal is described as a high six-figure transaction and was completed ahead of competing offers, a strategy often used to secure development material early for major platforms.

Laybourne is best known for work on the comedy series “Ghosts,” where he is credited as co-executive producer. Deadline reports that “Wingmom” is a spec script, meaning it was written without a guaranteed production commitment, and Netflix’s purchase gives the project a direct path into studio development.

Jeff Robinov is set to produce “Wingmom,” Deadline said, with Tabitha Shick of Talking Pictures also attached as a producer. The report frames the script’s core appeal as its potential to become a strong starring vehicle for an actress, with at least one actress already circling the project as Netflix moves toward the next development steps.

Preemptive buys can report a platform’s urgency to secure creative and commercial options, especially when the material is seen as timely for star talent. In this case, the project is positioned by Deadline as a vehicle-centric comedy, with development likely to focus on attaching a lead and shaping production-ready drafts before any broader packaging.

Netflix’s acquisition also underscores the company’s continuing reliance on outside writing talent and independent producer relationships to replenish its film slate. The “Wingmom” purchase adds to the pipeline of comedy features Netflix has sought over the past several years, as it weighs staffing, budgeting, and release timelines through the development process.

The next phase for “Wingmom” will likely involve writer collaboration and production team planning, starting with the producers already attached, Robinov and Shick, and coordination around casting. The report does not specify timing for filming or release, but it indicates that at least one actress has expressed interest or is already in discussions as the project aims to lock in a leading role.

No additional plot specifics, casting names, or production commitments were included in the Deadline report. Netflix typically confirms further details, including cast and production start dates, only after development milestones are met and negotiations are finalized.