<Tr> <Th_colspan="2"> External links </Th> </Tr> <Tr> <Td_colspan="2"> Website </Td> </Tr> <P> Shameless is an American comedy - drama television series developed by John Wells that debuted on Showtime on January 9, 2011 . It is a remake of the British series of the same name created by Paul Abbott . The series features an ensemble cast, led by William H. Macy and Emmy Rossum . Set in the South Side of Chicago, the series is filmed in Los Angeles, with the exterior scenes shot in Chicago . The series was renewed for a ninth season, which will premiere on September 9, 2018, making it the longest - running original scripted series in Showtime's history . </P> <P> The series depicts the dysfunctional family of Frank Gallagher, a single father of six children . While he spends his days drunk or in search of misadventures, his kids learn to take care of themselves . </P>

Where did the idea for shameless come from