Heaton to headline 'Class' TV movie

NEW YORK, Sept. 10 (UPI) -- Hollywood actress Patricia Heaton is set to star, alongside Treat Williams, in the TV movie "Front of the Class," CBS announced Wednesday.

The new "Hallmark Hall of Fame" film has started production in Shreveport, La., and will be broadcast on the CBS Television Network.

"Front of the Class" is based on the true story of Brad Cohen -- played in the movie by Jimmy Wolk -- who, "after being challenged by Tourette's syndrome from a very young age, defies all odds to become a gifted teacher," CBS said.

Heaton, who is best known for playing Debra Barone on "Everybody Loves Raymond," plays Brad's mother, while Williams, who starred on the former TV series "Everwood," plays his father.