Damon Wayans Jr. To Lead NBC’s ‘Puzzled’ Crime Drama Pilot

Damon Wayans Jr. Is set to star in NBC’s upcoming crime drama pilot, “Puzzled,” based on Danielle Trussoni’s “Puzzle Master” books. The pilot, picked up in January 2026, centers around a former college athlete who uses his unique cognitive abilities to solve crimes.

The Premise of ‘Puzzled’

Wayans Jr. Will portray Mike Brink, a character who developed Acquired Savant Syndrome following a traumatic brain injury sustained after narrowly escaping a fire. This rare condition grants him exceptional skills in puzzle-solving, advanced mathematics, and pattern recognition. Brink leverages these abilities, honed through sports betting, to assist local police in cracking complex cases.

Damon Wayans Jr.’s Recent and Past Work

Wayans Jr. Currently hosts and executive produces the CBS game show “Raid the Cage” and previously starred in and executive produced the CBS multi-cam comedy “Poppa’s House.” He is known for his roles in television series such as “Happy Endings” and “New Girl.” His film credits include “Let’s Be Cops” and “The Harder They Fall.” Variety reports he recently co-starred in the Netflix films Players and Kinda Pregnant.

Production Details

“Puzzled” is being produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, with Joey Falco serving as writer and executive producer. Jordan Cerf of Linden Entertainment also executive produces, alongside Danielle Trussoni. Deadline confirms these production details.

About Damon Wayans Jr.

Born November 18, 1982, Damon Kyle Wayans Jr. Is an American actor, and comedian. He is the eldest son of actor and comedian Damon Wayans, and a member of the prominent Wayans family. Wikipedia details his early career, including his debut in his father’s film Blankman in 1994, and his work as a staff writer on television series.