Playing a 19th Century English aristocrat

Rhys Darby is to star in a new period comedy, it has been reported.

The Kiwi comedian has a lead role in Regency, which is being piloted for the CBS network in the US.

It is described as  ‘a historical spin on the classic multi-camera family sitcom, centred on the upper-middle class Tillbrooks as they navigate life, love, and scandal in 19th Century England.’

According to Hollywood trade website Variety, Darby will star as Arthur Tillbrook, who is described as the ‘head of the family home, Hartford Park. Arthur is heir to a vast cheese empire but prefers to think of himself as a "guy’s guy".

‘He will go to great lengths to prove his masculinity, though his privileged upbringing reveals itself every time.’

Flight of the Conchords star Darby  previously starred in the HBO Max series Our Flag Means Death, set among 18th Century pirates. 

Published: 10 Feb 2026