Weeds: Jenji re-ups with producer

"Weeds" creator Jenji Kohan has inked a two-year overall deal with the series producer.

Under the new agreement, Kohan will continue as showrunner and executive producer of dark comedy "Weeds," which will launch its sixth season on Showtime in the summer.

She also executive produces Lionsgate's Nashville-set drama pilot "Tough Trade," the first scripted pilot for fledging pay cable network Epix.

Additionally, Kohan is developing a number of projects for Lionsgate, including an untitled musical comedy for Showtime with "Weeds" writer Stephen Falk.

"Having gotten to second base with Lionsgate in my former 'under the shirt but over the bra' deal, it's a thrill to now be in bed with them and going all the way," Kohan said. "Let us hope our creative offspring make us both proud and happy for years to come. And when I say 'come,' don't read into it. It's a business deal. Get your minds out of the gutter."

Kevin Beggs, Lionsgate's president of television programming and production, was more formal in his remarks.

"Jenji is brilliantly talented, funny and fearless and a highly valued member of the Lionsgate TV family," he said. " 'Weeds' has become a signature show for Lionsgate around the world, helping to define our TV brand, and we have Jenji to thank for that."

An Emmy winner for "Tracey Takes On," Kohan has earned an Emmy nomination for "Weeds," about the complicated life of a pot-dealing suburban mom, played by Mary-Louise Parker.

Kohan is repped by CAA and attorney Bob Getman.

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