Payne (TV series) Payne (TV series) Payne is an American sitcom based after the British program "Fawlty Towers". It starred American John Larroquette, who was also an executive producer for the series. "Payne" was a mid-season replacement on CBS and aired in March and April 1999. The show also starred JoBeth Williams, Julie Benz and Rick Batalla. Despite fairly positive reception, and receiving the blessing of John Cleese, who agreed to take a recurring role as the antagonistic rival hotelier if the show was renewed, "Payne" was quickly cancelled. Nine episodes were filmed; eight were aired. "Payne" was a remake of "Fawlty Towers",
Cracker (UK TV series) stablemate crime drama "Prime Suspect", the spoof starred Coltrane and "Prime Suspect" lead Helen Mirren as their characters from the respective series, sending up both shows. In 1997 a 16-part US version of "Cracker" — directed by Stephen Cragg and Michael Fields — was made, starring Robert Pastorelli in Coltrane's role. The original UK story lines were transferred to Los Angeles. The series finished after the first season. It was broadcast in the UK, retitled "Fitz". Cracker (UK TV series) Cracker is a British crime drama series produced by Granada Television for ITV, created and principally written by Jimmy McGovern.