Hello, Hollywood? It’s the Xbox. We need a new hook.

The New York Times says that Microsoft has turned to a big Hollywood mucky-muck to help create original content for the Xbox 360.

The guy they want to get creative is Peter Safran, who was the producer on the Eva Longoria flop “Over Her Dead Body.” He also reps Sean “don’t-call-me-Puff-Daddy” Combs, Nia Vardalos (“My Big Fat Greek Wedding”), and Jason Friedberg and Aaron Seltzer, the writers behind “Epic Movie.”

Safran says he will develop horror and comedy, kicking off with short-attention-span scripted content. Also expect some advertising thrown into the mix. The originals will be exclusive for a while, but could possibly be available via other outlets down the road. The Xbox 360 currently offers movies as well as programming from ABC, Comedy Central, and other networks.

Microsoft says they are working on deals with other content providers. Safran’s first original Xbox shows should premiere this fall.

Rachel Cericola - Contributing Writer

Over the past 15 years, Rachel Cericola has covered entertainment, web and technology trends. Check her out at www.rachelcericola.com.