Leary penning holiday-themed book

NEW YORK, Feb. 29 (UPI) -- U.S. writer-actor Denis Leary is penning a Christmas-themed novelty book, which will be the first offering from Comedy Central's new publishing division.

Leary's book will become available in October as part of the cable television network's deal with Running Press, a member of the Perseus Books Group.

The announcement was made Wednesday by Michele Ganeless, president of Comedy Central, and Christopher Navratil, publisher of Running Press.

The joint publishing relationship will build on established and developing brands of the cable network.

"Success today means reaching our fans on all different platforms. This publishing relationship is another example of the kind of extension that keeps Comedy Central the No. 1 brand in comedy," Ganeless said in a statement.

"I am truly delighted to be in business with Running Press and deliver a funny Christmas book based on a special I did for Comedy Central 7 1/2 years ago," Leary said. "Sorry for the delay, but I was a tad busy with 'Rescue Me,' two teenaged kids, two Red Sox World Series victories, the 17th Boston Celtic NBA championship, the Bruins winning the Stanley Cup and online porn. Mostly the porn."