Comedy Central To Pick Up "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia"

There's a sunny future for cable networks FX and Comedy Central.

The two media outlets are joining forces to run FX's successful series "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" in syndication starting summer 2010. The critically acclaimed show, currently in its fifth season, will continue its episodes first-run on FX through the sixth and seventh seasons, totaling 84 episodes by 2011.

In a press release on Comedy Central's Web site, executive Steve MacDonald, the general sales manager of Twentieth Television, was among those announcing the show's future.

"Crossing a series from one hugely successful cable brand to another speaks volumes to the show's loyal viewers and skyrocketing ratings," he said. "Greg Meidel, President of Twentieth Television, and I are thrilled that Comedy Central will place 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia' beside the network's strong slate of cutting-edge programming; further elevating this hilarious series and introducing a unique cast of characters to new audiences."

"It's Always Sunny" debuted on FX in 2005. The show follows the antics of "The Gang," a group of Philly friends and bar owners who never run out of crazy schemes and have no sense of moral decency. Skewering topics such racism, sexual abuse, terrorism and more, the series has continually pushed boundaries since its inception.

The show's pilot was made for only $200 and shot on a handheld camera by series stars Rob McElhenney, Charlie Day and Glenn Howerton. FX picked up the show for seven episodes, also bringing in actress Kaitlin Olson to co-star. In the second season, Danny DeVito joined the cast as Howerton's and Olson's depraved father, Frank Reynolds. The ensemble has since featured these five, also bringing in guest stars like Anne Archer, Stephen Collins, Judy Greer, Sinbad and more.

In its current season, "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" is doing well in ratings. For adults 18 to 49, viewership is up 55 percent and 51 percent with adults 18 to 34.