UPN is looking to expand its horizons with a new drama pilot written by NYPD Blue co-creator and producer David Milch.

The as yet untitled concept revolves around a young street hustler who becomes friends with an alien, according to Variety. The pair team up and travel around the country, leading to a series with a blend of action and humour.

Produced by Paramount Television, casting for the pilot is set to begin shortly. The series is being considered for a Fall 2002 debut, depending on whether the pilot is picked up by the network.

"Obviously we couldn't be more excited doing a project with someone the caliber of Milch," said UPN CEO Dean Valentine. "Paramount has made a tremendous effort to send writers of real quality off their roster to us this year. When David came up with this concept, they thought UPN was the perfect place for it."

Milch's previous two dramas, Big Apple and Brookly South were both cancelled after a single season. He has also written for the classic police series, Hill Street Blues.

The network is very pleased with the success of Enterprise and Buffy The Vampire Slayer and is looking for companion series. "If we can put on a show that pairs up perfectly with 'Enterprise' or 'Buffy,' there's a reasonable chance it could go on and have a long run," Valentine said, adding that the series could air back to back with the Star Trek series. "You can have a very clear sense of the kind of show that would work in those time periods and be very laser guided."

Currently, Enterprise airs together with Special Unit 2, which just last week was renewed for a full season (story). However, its continuing future will no doubt depend on its ratings throughout the rest of this season. UPN is said to also be considering options for the Tuesday 9pm slot, occupied by Roswell this season. Saved from cancellation by the WB when UPN picked it up, it is currently achieving mediocre ratings.

In addition to the previously reported As If (story), UPN has a number of other projects in the pipeline. These include Black Star, described as 'Top Gun' in space, a new private eye concept, and a hip-hop high school series.

The original Reuters/Variety report can be found here.

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