Bold claim: a new wave of workplace comedy is forming at federal desks, with X Mayo driving a fresh TV vehicle that could redefine how TSA stories land on screen. But here’s where it gets controversial: can a single personal experience translate into a widely relatable hit, or will the realities of federal work feel too niche for broad appeal?
A fresh collaboration is underway as CBS develops Checkpoint, a single-camera comedy co-written and executive-produced by X Mayo and veteran showrunner Mike Sikowitz. The show, inspired by Mayo’s own TSA experience, centers on TSA officers and their journeys through career, relationships, and friendship, all while balancing the pressures of safeguarding the nation. Mayo is positioned to star, with the project aimed at delivering entertaining, character-driven moments alongside sharper workplace humor.
The creative team includes Kapital Entertainment’s Aaron Kaplan as an executive producer, with Dylan Hammalian serving as co-executive producer. This marks a continued partnership between Mayo and Kaplan after their work together on NBC’s American Auto, where Mayo was a series regular. A subsequent meeting—where Mayo shared stories from her LAX TSA days—helped crystallize the Checkpoint concept.
Mike Sikowitz, known for his work on Friends and a string of other comedies, brings seasoned showrunning and producing experience to Checkpoint. His background includes executive producing The Goldbergs, The McCarthys, and Rules of Engagement, as well as showrunning Dr. Ken and Welcome To the Family. He is represented by CAA and Gender Kelly & Cunningham.
Beyond Checkpoint, CBS and Kapital have a slate of projects in the works. This includes the DMV-set single-camera drama DMV, Kapital’s sophomore drama Watson, the multi-camera favorite The Neighborhood now in its eighth and final season, and Crutch, a single-camera offshoot that premiered on Paramount+. Mayo’s rising profile extends to major roles and guest spots across streaming and network platforms, reflecting her growing influence in contemporary comedy and genre projects.
Why this matters::
- It signals CBS’s ongoing commitment to workplace comedies with fresh perspectives and real-life experiences as ignition points.
- The pairing of Mayo’s lived TSA experience with Sikowitz’s proven comedic instincts could yield a show that blends heart, humor, and timely commentary on public service.
- The project could expand opportunities for diverse talent behind and in front of the camera, as Mayo’s personal story invites authentic storytelling and character-driven jokes.
Questions to consider for viewers and the industry alike: Will Checkpoint strike the right balance between workplace hilarity and the realities of federal service? How will the show handle sensitive topics around security and public safety while keeping the tone light and accessible? And with Mayo at the helm, could this become a breakout franchise that reshapes how bios and experiences translate into hit comedies? Share your thoughts below.
