'Political Animals': USA Network Orders Greg Berlanti Miniseries

Greg Berlanti is bringing "Political Animals" to life in a new six-part USA Network miniseries. Laurence Mark is also producing the project.

The new project follows Elaine Barrish, a divorced former first lady who is currently serving as secretary of state. She's juggling her job and family life while making a surprising connection with Susan Berg, a Washington, D.C.-based journalist who has built a career out of criticizing Barrish.

Berlanti wrote and will direct the first episode slated for summer 2012 premiere. He and Mark will serve as executive producers on the series.

"We're ecstatic to collaborate with Greg and Larry, a writing and producing dream team of this magnitude," said Chris McCumber, co-president of USA Network, said in a statement.

"We've been chasing Greg for years," said Jeff Wachtel, USA Network co-president, said in a statement. "We can't think of a better partner to be working with as we expand the storytelling reach of the network."

Berlanti is a familiar name to TV viewers. Known for his work on The WB shows "Dawson's Creek," "Everwood" and "Jack and Bobby," Berlanti went on to create "No Ordinary Family" and "Eli Stone." He co-wrote this summer's "Green Lantern."

It's been a busy pilot season for Berlanti. He's sold pilots to The CW, Fox and CBS. At The CW, he'll be tackling the DC Comics character Green Arrow.