The series star and co-creator, Denis Leary, told Canada's Postmedia News that the timing fit.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

The Ref has Dennis Leary being Denis Leary, but with a gun and hostages.

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With James Woods, Denis Leary, Diane Venora, and Lisa Gay Hamilton.

NEWYORKER: True Crime

He and goofball crook Christopher Lambert team up to find a huge stash of dirty money before drug lord Patrick Stewart or freelance thug Denis Leary get their hands on it.

NEWYORKER: Gunmen

They don't necessarily make him any money but they do let him hang with the likes of Mick, rock relic David Crosby and the stunning actress Elizabeth Hurley in her skimpy top, not to mention actor Denis Leary and Scream victim Rose McGowan.

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