Word is that HBO has recently signed a multi-project deal with comedian Dane "Suck My Back!" Cook. This deal will include specials and series, among other things, and marks the first time that HBO has ever done this with any individual. They say that they're planning to air Dane's comedy tour documentary, Tourgasm, and they're also working on a pilot for a half-hour comedy series.

Whoa. Comedy series? I love Dane and all, but, honestly, the idea of having him lead a comedy series makes me a little nervous. I never fail to crack up at his jokes (despite hearing them quoted all around me, 24/7) but is he really enough to carry a show week after week? The only things I see happening are A) Dane is way too much for the series (unfortunately, I can only imagine him playing an over-the-top jackass... not the sort of character that the audience really sympathizes with) and it gets real old, real fast or B) they tone down Dane so much that it's painful to watch and his career goes hurdling down the toilet faster than the punchline for one of his drinking anecdotes. But, either way, I'll be watching to find out.

Dane Cook just revealed a big secret to his fans on his MySpace and website: he's going to have his very own HBO special! In case you didn't know, an SNL guest spot (which Dane has already conquered... in fact, his appearance created the highest ratings for the show in two years) and an HBO special are two huge milestones in any comedian's career. Dane will return to his hometown of Boston on April 15, 2006 for the taping (in the massive TD Banknorth Garden) and, as of right now, you can take advantage of the pre-sale by coming here and using the password SUFI (Su-Fi is short for "super-finger"... learn more about it here).

Mister Dane Cook, I offer you a hearty congratulations and a fully-deserved "rok on" Su-Fi.