Shondaland Developing Catholic Nun Ensemble Drama for ABC

Less than a week after ABC put a Shondaland comedy series into development, the network has a Catholic-based drama in the works.

The untitled project from writer-exec producer Alison Schapker revolves around a group of Catholic nuns fighting the closure of their Bronx-based convent who must suddenly deal with three young novices whose arrival unearths long-buried secrets. The ensemble drama will throw into question everything you think you know about the “Brides of Christ.”

Hailing from ABC Studios, Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers will also serve as exec producers on the series, which marks the first religious genre series for Shondaland.

The “Brides of Christ”-inspired drama marks the second sale for Shondaland this season. ABC also bought a comedy, titled “Splitsville,” from “Trophy Wife” creators Emily Halpern and Sarah Haskins. The laffer follows a group of single residents of a suburban cul-de-sac who join forces to raise their kids together.

See More:Shondaland Comedy From ‘Trophy Wife’ Creators Set Up at ABC

Schapker’s TV credits include “Brothers & Sisters,” on which she was an exec producer, “Fringe,” “Lost,” “Charmed,” “Alias” and “The Flash.”

Shondaland is also behind mega-hits “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal” and “How To Get Away with Murder.” Up next is “The Catch,” which bows midseason on ABC.

Schapker is repped by WME and Ziffren Brittenham.

Pictured: Betsy Beers, Alison Schapker, Shonda Rhimes