ABC is getting the man's perspective with a male-based Supernanny spinoff, ordering episodes of Supermanny as a back-door pilot in the fall.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the spinoff's format will remain similar to the original, with a child-development expert lending a family in crisis some tough-love guidance.

However, instead of professional nanny Jo Frost leading the living room intervention, gruff Chicago child therapist Mike Ruggles will step in.

"With a guy, he can connect with dads in a different kind of way," executive producer Nick Emmerson said. "It's really powerful stuff."

Ruggles' approach to diffusing family disputes will differ somewhat as well. Ruggles encourages parents to learn how to play with their kids and get to know them.

The project is from Ricochet Television, which also produces the original series. ABC plans to air the episode as a special in the new Supernanny time period, 9 p.m. Fridays.