Melissa McCarthy to Co-Produce, Star in Puppet Stripper Film ‘Happytime Murders’

Melissa McCarthy is about to get down with some dark puppets and STX Films.

The “Ghostbusters” star is on board to star and co-produce “The Happytime Murders,” directed by Brain Henson — the son of famed puppeteer Jim Henson.

The script, which exists in a world where humans and puppets interact, has been described as “Avenue Q meets L.A. Confidential.” Actor Jamie Foxx was previously attached to the film but is no longer involved, a knowledgable insider told TheWrap.

“When a really good script combines puppet strippers, Los Angeles’ underbelly and comedy, it’s like my fever dream has finally come true,” McCarthy said.

The Tuesday announcement was made by STX Films Chairman Adam Fogelson and his production head Sam Brown.

“Melissa McCarthy is the reigning queen of comedy and we believe she will make ‘The Happytime Murders’ the kind of hysterical, edgy, viral event that audiences today crave,” Fogelson said in a statement.

Ben Falcone — actor, director and McCarthy’s husband — will produce with her through their On The Day Productions. Lisa Henson and John W. Hyde will executive produce. Todd Berger wrote the script with revisions by Erich & Jon Hoeber, and another pass coming from McCarthy.

Sheroum Kim and Kate Vorhoff are overseeing the production on behalf of STX. Jeanne McCarthy is serving as casting director on the production, which will shoot in August.