From “Glee” to “American Horror Story,” Ryan Murphy sure knows how to spin a TV program. His latest venture, an NBC comedy called “The New Normal,” will feature Ellen Barkin as a surrogate mother to a gay couple. (Vulture)

Lea Michele first made waves in “Spring Awakening,” and now she’s up for the same role again. Michele is being considered for the film version of the role that brought her to stardom. (E!)

HBO’s “Muhammed Ali’s Greatest Fight” has yet to cast its Ali, but Christopher Plummer and Frank Langella have already signed on in supporting roles. (The Hollywood Reporter)

AMC’s “The Walking Dead” creator Robert Kirkman may be in more trouble than he thought. Kirkman left the series abruptly mid-season due to the network’s lack of funding and support for his vision, but now he’s being sued by one of his former partners. (Deadline)