Development and production
Who played Max and Polly's stepfather?
How to Live with Your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life)
In January 2012, ABC placed a pilot order for "How to Live with Your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life)". Claudia Lonow wrote the pilot episode, and serves as showrunner and head writer. Lonow also executive produces the series alongside Brian Grazer and Francie Calfo, under their production company Imagine Entertainment. Casting announcements began in February 2012, with Sarah Chalke first cast in the lead role of Polly, the recently divorced mother who moves back in with her parents. Jon Dore then joined the series in the role of Julian, Polly's ex-husband. Following Dore, Elizabeth Perkins signed on to play the role of Elaine, Polly's optimistic and outspoken mother. Next to board the series was Rachel Eggleston as Natalie, Polly and Julian's six-year-old daughter. Brad Garrett then joined the series as Max, Polly's stepfather, who owns a successful chain of nightclubs. Rebecca Delgado Smith boarded the series in the role of Jenn, Polly's co-worker who occasionally helps Polly with her dating problems. Orlando Jones completed the main cast in the series when he signed on to play the role of Gregg, Polly's married best friend and co-worker. On May 11, 2012, ABC placed a series order for the comedy. Shortly after the series order was placed, Rebecca Delgado Smith and Orlando Jones were dropped from the cast. Smith's role was subsequently recast with Stephanie Hunt. The series went into production early and the first season was completed by November 2012.