NBC may walk John Wells' 'Police' beat after all

Well, it looks as if John Wells' latest project may materialize sooner than expected.

Earlier this week, we wrote that NBC was having trouble cutting a deal with Warner Bros. Television for "Police" (formerly "LAPD"), the new project from Wells of "ER" fame. The two sides were said to be far apart on financial terms and the number of episodes to be ordered, increasing chances that the deal could fall through.

But now comes word that NBC has picked up six episodes of the show in a deal that, according to Variety, may include additional episodes of "ER," which is due for its finale this season.

A deal would ensure that Wells would stay in business with NBC, where he has been a fixture for 15 years.

A network spokeswoman declined to comment.

-- Scott Collins and Maria Elena Fernandez