where is the show shameless filmed

Shameless goes Stateside: The new U. S. version of the UK favourite show premieres tonight on the Showtime cable channel The original: The UK version of Shameless is set in the gritty Chatsworth estate The role was played by Anne-Marie Duff for two series in the British show before she departed with boyfriend Steve Mc Bride, played by James Mc Avoy.

From Chatsworth to Chicago: U.S. version of hit British drama Shameless premieres tonight

"From Chatsworth to Chicago: U. S. version of hit British drama Shameless premieres tonight By Daily Mail Reporter Updated: 05:51 EDT, 10 January 201174View comments The American version of Shameless will premiere in the U. S. tonight, with William H Macy set to play the UK's beloved Frank Gallagher.

The Fargo actor is to take on the role of the rip-roaring drunk, played by David Threlfal in the original British series. Macy, 60, will be propping up dive bars in Chicago instead of the more familiar Manchester pub. Scroll down to see a trailer...

Double take: William H. Macy, left, will star as drunkard Frank Gallagher in the U. S. version of Shameless. The character is played by David Threlfal in the UKFamily drama: Emmy Rossum cries as Fiona, while father Frank lies in a drunken stupor in scenes mirroring the first season of the British show The programme has become cult viewing in the UK, with the eighth series set to air on Channel 4 on Monday.

But the American version, which starts tonight on the Showtime cable channel, goes right back to the beginning and features the original characters, many of whom have now been written out of the British show.

Phantom of the Opera star Emmy Rossum will play the part of Fiona - the daughter and matriarch of the Gallagher family.

Canadian actor Justin Chatwin will take up Mc Aoy's mantle in the Stateside edition as the charming middle-class car thief. Lost star Chatwin is best known playing the son of Tom Cruise's character in the Steven Spielberg-directed film War of the Worlds.

Matriarch: Phantom of the Opera star Emmy Rossum plays Fiona Gallagher, right Anne-Marie Duff in the original Wheeler dealer: Lost actor Justin Chatwin takes on the role of middle class car thief Steve Mc Bride, played by James Mc Avoy's in the UKPopular characters Kev and Veronica - played by Dean Lennox Kelly and Maxine Peake in the original version - also star, with Steve Howey and Shanola Hampton taking on the roles respectively. The Manchester Chatsworth estate of the original UK series has been moved to a rundown Chicago neighbourhood.

In a trailer released by Showtime of the the gritty tragi-comedy, Macy is seen lying, passed out cold on the family's living room floor, while Rossum as daughter Fiona screams at him to get up, in scene mirroring the first episode of the British show,Love interest: Chatwin plays Fiona's boyfriend in the tragi-comedy Originals: Duff and Mc Avoy, who became a real-life couple after meeting on the set, left the British show after two series Shameless, which has been running in the UK since 2004, follows dysfunctional single-parent family the Gallaghers. Alcoholic Frank is father to seven children who are battling to survive with almost no support from their dad.

This TV role is something of a departure for Macy, who is married to Desperate Housewives star Felicity Huffman. Sassy: Shanola Hampton, left, takes on Maxie Peake's former role as Veronica Bloke's bloke: Steve Howey plays Veronica's boyfriend Kev, which was played by Dean Lennox Kelly in the Channel 4 version His movie credits include Fargo, Magnolia and Seabiscuit.

While Rossum, 24, has cast aside her pretty nice-girl persona to play put-upon, harassed Fiona, who runs the entire household with straggly hair and no make-up.

Also starring in the new show is Working Girl actress Joan Cusack as agoraphobic Shiela. Gallagher brood: Emma Kenney as Debbie and, right Rebecca Ryan in the early days of the original Carl: Played by Ethan Cutkosky in the remake and, right, Elliott Tittensor Ian: Cameron Monaghan takes up the mantle Staateside, right Gerard Kearns early on in the British series, which is now in its eight season She was brought in as an impressive last-minute replacement for West Wing's Allison Janney, who had to leave due to other commitments.

The new U. S. show is sure to raise a few eyebrows with it's racy scenes full of sex, swearing and drunkenness. The original UK show won a BAFTA for its intricate portrayal of the working-class Gallaghers. Channel Four, who screened the original show in the UK, have bought the U. S. version to screen.

The American Shameless starts tonight on Showtime at 10pm. The season eight premiere of the British show begins on Channel 4 on Monday 10 January at 10pm. Taking on the part: Jeremy Allen White and Jody Latham who used to play 'Lip'Blonde for blonde: Laura Slade Wiggins takes on the role of karen, played by Rebecca Atkinson in the original Share or comment on this article Most watched News videos Embed this Shocking CCTV shows man crashing his car before running off Shocking moment road rage driver swerves and runs...

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Melissa, New Hampshire, USA, 7 years ago I think I would rather watch Shameless made by Showtime than the remake of Skins MTV is planning. I keep hoping that someday someone will come up with an original idea here in the States, but it does not seem to be the way of things.

Between remakes of British shows on TV and remakes of old movies in the theaters there is not much originality happening in entertainment.319Click to rate Marie, Somewhere over the rainbow, 7 years ago I have no idea why the Brits get their panties in a bunch when their shows are imported to the states.

It's not like the Americans take the damn things, most likely they were sold or even pitch to American TV execs from the British creators. Obviously the people who created these shows don't hold them as a sacred ""British"" entity that need to to be perserve for the sake of British authencity or humor. I also have to say, yeah, British humor is funny-in small doses. What 's not to get??? The comedy is full of sarcasm and self deprecation.

Point blank. American comedy is funny too, also in small doses. On another note, The American Office is hilarious- I received the DVD boxset for christmas, didn't think it would hold up to the British office.

But I daresay, it does and I like it better. No one in the British office compares to Dwight, Andy, Kevin, and my girl Kelly. No one.1629Click to rate J. Rose, Springfield, Oregon US, 7 years ago Watched the first episode the other night, and to be honest didn't think I'd like it.

We mostly watched because of Macy. It turned out pretty good, actually. Just the right balance of tragedy and comedy. And no, I'm not generally fans of American remakes, but maybe the tone and casting will save it.914Click to rate Nicky F, NYC, NY, 7 years ago These types of working-class shows are there so middle-class people can make fun of them.

I do all the time! But Shameless is beyond watchable....most Americans can't relate to the chav-culture that is rampant amongst the working-class British, and to be honest, its disgusting that England is that way. I couldn't and wouldn't watch the British version anyway because the characters look so vile, unclean, uncouth, illiterate etc.

These types of shows should not be imported here, as the chavs are all in England. Keep 'em there please.5722Click to rate Lynne, Renton, WA, 7 years ago Looking forward to this.

As a Scottish ex pat I loved the UK version :) And I now love Justin Chapman. :-D712Click to rate MR, FL, 7 years ago I watched Shameless last night, ready to hate it, as I love the original British one. It was hilarious. By the way, a lot of the shows shown in Britain are American, so stop with the nonsense.836Click to rate Anna Kelley, GA USA, 7 years ago We've given the Yanks The King's Speech as well as Shameless in the same month.

Well, that's diversity for you - the images of Britain couldn't be further apart. - B Lewis, Sheffield, 9/1/2011 17:46 We also got Downton Abbey, last night.

I was riveted. Can't wait for the next installment.414Click to rate Richard, Hampshire, 7 years ago Why do the Americans think they can take any any foreign TV show (or film) and remake it at their will; often destroying the original concept.

They refuse to allow their (American) films/shows to be rewritten! Very hypocritical of them!2920Click to rate VAL, Williamsburg, VA, USA, 7 years ago I can't speak for the rest of America, but I love -- and understand -- British humor.

Most commentors are right about the American remakes -- they're never as good as the originals.939Click to rateanon, london, 7 years ago Love shameless and William H Macy will be fantastic as frank818Click to rate View all The views expressed in the contents above are those of our users and do not necessarily reflect the views of Mail Online.

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Queen Maxima makes a statement in scarlet as she visits the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra in Amsterdam Advertisement King Juan Carlos is all smiles as he leaves hospital following knee operation - after royal family's awkward encounter was caught on camera Charlize Theron dons an all-black outfit for grocery shopping in Los Angeles with daughter August She is a single mom-of-two Model misery: Victoria's Secret hottie Barbara Palvin reveals she is 'constantly at war with her body trying to adhere to fashion industry's criteria'Kim Zolciak calls Marlon Wayans 'pretty disgusting' for comparing her face to White Chicks character He transformed into a white woman Chloe Moretz emerges for the first time since ex Brooklyn Beckham was spotted kissing model Lexi Wood... and her friendship ring is OFFElsa Hosk steps away from her modelling duties to enjoy thrilling basketball game with pals in NYC Sitting front row with her pals Milla Jovovich and her Resident Evil filmmaker husband Paul W. S. Anderson list their 1960s, three-bedroom Beverly Hills pavilion for $4.5 million Fans left stunned by Chris Hemsworth's youthful mother and father after Hollywood hunk posts picture of his very good-looking family Cardi B jokes about her pregnancy reveal as she makes Tonight Show history as first ever co-host alomgside Jimmy Fallon Growing baby bump Rose Mc Gowan steps out in an orange jacket after preliminary hearing for drug possession is rescheduled All smiles in NYCSelma Blair shows off her boho style in billowing yellow gown with chic sandals for LA juice run The Cruel Intentions star was a vision Thandie Newton rages at British Airways after flight is delayed for six hours then CANCELED - just months after she starred in video for airline'Yesterday I officially became divorced': Russell Crowe finalizes split from Danielle Spencer ... five years after their marriage broke down Helen Mirren, 72, steps out in printed pants and stilettos as she heads for lunch with Taylor Hackford, 73, in LA The actress cut a trendy figure Usain Bolt's girlfriend Kasi looks like a Victoria's Secret model for Carnival in Jamaica Wore a skimpy white and metallic swimsuit with white wings strapped on Debby Ryan shows off her toned tummy in tiny crop top at Cover Versions premiere Former Disney star showed she's all grown up Gabrielle Union stuns in a figure-hugging red dress as she joins Kelly Bensimon at Night of Opportunity Gala in New York On the red carpet Khloe Kardashian shows cleavage in sports bra as she posts on Snapchat while waiting to give birth Pregnant star is expecting first child Angelina Jolie heaps praise on Queen Elizabeth: Actress calls monarch 'really lovely lady' for her dedication to forest conservation in Africa Game Of Thrones star Sophie Turner's SECRET Instagram account revealed... which has already racked up 22,000 followers Prince William praises 'extraordinary example' of author who rebuilt his life after a stranger talked him out of jumping off a bridge Remarkable story'Out of this world!'

Shanina Shaik stuns fans with her flawless complexion as she sizzles in beachside selfie Model took to Instagram Tyra Banks struts her stuff in plunging top and pencil skirt following Daily Show appearance in NYC Busy promoting her new book Perfect Is Boring Tallulah Willis puts her phenomenal legs on parade in minuscule shorts on low-key day out Stepping out in Los Angeles Big pals!

Selma Blair and Parker Posey hug each other as they dazzle on the red carpet at Lost In Space premiere in LA Sweetest Thing stars Julie Bowen from Modern Family treats her three sons to a fun-filled trip to Disneyland after split She recently split from her husband of 13 years Christie Brinkley, 64, is a beauty in pinstripes and leather at America Inside Out premiere in NYC The Uptown Girl was clad in an all-black Getting of fresh air: Jennie Garth is seen without wedding ring for the first time since Dave Abrams filed for divorce Her husband filed for divorce on Friday Ex-Cosby Show actress stages topless protest at Bill Cosby's retrial as she charges at actor with word 'rapist' and names of alleged victims written on body Kourtney Kardashian one-ups sister Kim with sexy bikini snap as she calls herself Sporty Spice Mom-of-three looked stunning in Caribbean Dakota Fanning and beau Henry Frye bundle up while strolling arm-in-arm through New York Dakota went for a stroll though Manhattan Prince Charles lays a wreath at Darwin war memorial in Australia to honor fallen soldiers during final day of his tour Down Under He wore service medals Outgoing Vogue Editor-In-Chief Anna Wintour sparkles in shiny colorful dress and trademark shades at awards show in NYC Fashion icon D&G darlings!

Lady Amelia Windsor sparkles in sequins as she joins Lady Kitty Spencer for a party celebrating the designer in New York Extra co-host Mark Wright exhibits his chiseled abs as he wipes away sweat during soccer game in Los Angeles Feeling the heat Young love!

Chandler Powell, 21, dotes on girlfriend Bindi Irwin, 19, as they step out in Queensland...after fans urge the pair to get married Laura Ingraham returns to Fox News after David Hogg attack with rambling monologue about the 'left's plot to silence conservatives'Jessica Biel and Jamie Chung play with adorable puppies at American Express event in New York Delighted as they frolicked with puppies Falcons QB Matt Ryan and his wife announce they are proud parents of TWIN boys after keeping news secret because they were born two months premature Mariska Hargitay and husband Peter Hermann attend special NYC screening of I Am Evidence She produced the HBO documentary All smiles!

Kendra Wilkinson takes 8-year-old son Hank to Lost In Space premiere after filing for divorce She has recently filed for divorce Gory scenes!

Gina Rodriguez drenched in 'blood' as she films stabbing scene for new Netflix rom-com Someone Great Cameras rolling Amber Heard quietly donates millions to Children's Hospital Los Angeles after making pledge in 2016 to give Johnny Depp divorce settlement to charity Antonio Banderas, 57, refused to retire after heart attack because he didn't want to live like he's 'already dead' Actor, 57, was rushed to hospital last year Justin Bieber stops to check on man who collapsed in the street in Los Angeles He was on his was to his car after leaving Barry's Bootcamp Desilu trademark created by Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz at center of trademark infringement lawsuit Has become the focus of a legal dispute Jenna Dewan looks pensive as she hits Los Angeles day spa without her wedding ring following shock Channing Tatum split Enjoying some 'me time'So now he's a family guy!

Conor Mc Gregor shares snap with girlfriend and son after attacking bus of MMA rivals, as troubled star remains in NYCWedding belles!

Paris Hilton confirms Nicole Richie will be invited to her upcoming wedding as she says 'all my girls will be invited' Should be emotional Mark Hamill continues galactic adventures with wife Marilou York at Lost In Space premiere Attended the Netflix Lost In Space season one premiere in Los Angeles Hailey Baldwin and Ashley Graham are effortlessly stylish with matching hairdos at the Infinity Awards in NYC The models were on the same style page Masters champion Patrick Reed visits the Stock Exchange and Empire State building before heading to Madison Square Garden to watch the Knicks Five cases of sex abuse allegations against writer and director James Toback are dropped because they are outside the statute of limitations Melania Trump looks radiant in figure-hugging red as she welcomes a group of middle school kids to the White House for discussion about their daily 'struggles'Rachel Weisz and Daniel Craig hold hands as they show their support at Night of Opportunity Gala in New York The Bond star He's the daddy!

Rod Stewart, 73, poses with his four sons aged 37 to seven in sweet family snap shared by photographer wife Penny Lancaster Festival fun! Daphne Joy is feeling the Coachella vibe in curve-highlighting strapless bikini The model made the announcement on Instagram Pink lady!

Naomi Watts is pretty in pink as she wears stylish gown with black floral detailing to Tribeca Ball The actress hit the town in New York Kim Kardashian shares stunning bikini snap taken by sister Kourtney during Turks and Caicos vacation She has a habit of showing off her curves Model behavior!

Kaia Gerber channels mom Cindy Crawford in black motorcycle jacket at dinner with dad and brother She's fresh off the jet Proud mama! Heidi Montag proudly reveals that she is back to her post-baby body after welcoming son in October She gave birth last year Re-living the glory days!

Today's Dylan Dreyer and husband Brian dress up in VERY flamboyant outfits for 80s prom-themed party The meteorologist Ready to drop!

Khloe Kardashian producing new series about murderous sisters... as she prepares to give birth Expecting first child David Schwimmer says society needs to 'recognize a spectrum of bad behavior' amid #Me Too movement The Friends star gave his view Bill Cosby flashes a smile leaving court on first day of his sexual assault retrial where accuser's lawyer reveals he paid Andrea Constand $3.4 MILLIONJenny Mollen explains why she doesn't show her 4-year-old son's face in Instagram snaps The actress wants to do her best to keep her children's life private Mean Girls Broadway musical reveals 'first look' video of the show after star-studded opening night Clip was posted to You Tube Baring it all!

Stormy Daniels will pose NUDE for upcoming Penthouse Magazine issue and has revealed details about Trump 'that Anderson Cooper didn't ask'Kate Beckinsale's ex Michael Sheen, 49, 'dating Aisling Bea, 34': Did the actor swap Sarah Silverman, 47, for a younger comic?

Four years with Sarah'Sounds like President Trump!' Queen quips joke about The Donald and his helicopter in rare candid footage shot with David Attenborough'Tell him I am free for dinner!'

Real Housewives Of New York's Bethenny Frankel reveals she wants to date Russell Crowe Declared herself single'I'll just talk because I can't hear you!'

Australian interviewer's VERY awkward chat with Real Housewives of New York's Bethenny Frankel Diego Boneta of Scream Queens in talks for human role in Terminator reboot New film will apparently see Diego as a man rather than a machine Newlywed bliss! Amy Schumer and husband Chris Fischer are sophisticated chic as they arrive in style to Late Show Promoting I Feel Pretty Proud grandpa! Beyonce's father Matthew Knowles thinks Blue Ivy will become a star Follow in her famous parents footsteps Flying high!

Emily Blunt and John Krasinski carry daughters as they arrive at JFK Airport in NYC after their movie A Quiet Place tops box office Brooke Burke, 46, breaks her silence on split from Dave Charvet as she says she is 'deeply saddened' Ex-DWTS star filed for divorce after seven years On tour!

Lea Michele and Darren Criss to hit the road together for nine-date summer tour Starting in late May, the duo will play nine shows in nine different cities'It's a big thrill!' Jinger Duggar and her husband Jeremy Vuolo happily reveal they are expecting a baby girl as mom-to-be shares new image of growing bump'I've just been taking some quiet time to myself': Jessica Origliasso thanks fans for their support as she breaks her silence after her split with Ruby Rose'It's a waste of your time': Mom-to-be Cardi B opens up about being in a GANG linked to Bloods but says she would not recommend it to others Brighter than the sun!

Rita Ora turns heads in bold yellow coat as she steps out for another busy day in New York Hot Right Now singer wore retro glasses Actress Natalie Portman cradles toddler daughter Amalia in papoose while out in Los Angeles Little girl turned one year old last month'Get married already!'

Fans urge Bindi Irwin to wed her longtime beau as couple pack on the PDA at Chandler Powell's brother Cameron's nuptials Back to it! Makeup free Naomi Watts cuts a casual figure in a coat and leggings in New York...after enjoying a break in Mexico The holiday's over Juice on the go!

Diane Kruger shows off her fashionable flare in pink coat and ripped jeans while out in New York She opted for casual chic Pamela Anderson's ex Tommy Lee appears to sport black eye while out in LA... after dropping charges against son Brandon Been in the wars again?

Posing up! Malin Akerman makes a bold statement in a bright blue dress as she stops by Sirius XM in New York She stars alongside The Rock in the sci-fi flick, Rampage Model Elsa Hosk gets motors running at Ferrari shoot in Malibu... before dazzling on the D&G runway at the Met in the New York Swedish stuuner is 29'They are doing great': Kylie Jenner and Travis Scott have been brought 'closer together' by baby daughter Stormi Got pregnant quickly Tia Mowry reveals 'it was hard for me to get pregnant' as she expects baby girl Has second child on way with husband Cory Hardrict James Stunt's 'girlfriend' Samantha Rowley flaunts her ample assets in skimpy string bikini as she soaks up the sun in Miami Cardi B's sister Hennessy appears to accidentally reveal sex of rapper's baby in gushing Instagram post Admitted she was pregnant on SNLKarlie Kloss looks fab in plaid as she delivers talk on getting more young women into the tech world during visit to London Stunning supermodel Janice Dickinson gets styled by Nikki Lund as model is expected to appear in court for Bill Cosby's retrial She accused TV star of sexual harassment Back with a bang!

Ivanka Trump heads to work in a bold form-fitting red dress after vacation with Jared Kushner's family in Wyoming Conor Mc Gregor breaks his silence with cryptic Instagram post featuring photo of himself and a PRAYING emoji...after explosive incident in NYCKhloe Kardashian says she was NOT close to Kim and Kourtney as a kid because she looked 'different' Mom-to-be opened up about her sisters Dazzling Reese Witherspoon, 42, looks ever youthful in spring dress... after wearing a 'fantastic' shirt while leaving a workout in Los Angeles Gina Rodriguez laughs on New York City set of her new Netflix rom-com as she goes for the layered look She is producing her new comedy HBO's president of programming says Big Little Lies stars 'earned' their massive raises - after another exec said the network was 'raped' by show's new budget Kim Kardashian reveals she's 'living hardcore in the gym' after upset star received fan backlash over THOSE 'unflattering' bikini pictures Kylie Jenner poses in new green lipstick which some fans have said looks like Stormi's 'baby poop' The green/brown has attracted comments Teaming up!

Fleetwood Mac fires guitarist Lindsey Buckingham... and enlists Mike Campbell and Neil Finn for tour Back together Mariah Carey pokes fun at herself with a hilarious meme, sharing a VERY unflattering throwback snap alongside airbrushed album artwork Jennifer Lopez flashes cleavage in Vegas... after beau Alex Rodriguez gushes about their romance The 48-year-old star posted a closeup Luann de Lesseps beams in LA... after claiming she was groped by Russell Simmons in 2015 She has had a turbulent few months Ariana Grande is a kid again as she wears Minnie Mouse ears on Disneyland trip with pals Singer, 24, was spotted enjoying a day at Disney Amy Schumer and husband Chris Fischer take hand-in-hand stroll before comedy actress has poker game with her father Tied the knot February Kim Kardashian shows off her tiny waist and shapely curves as she paddleboards in a bikini Reality star posted a video clip from vacation Tyra Banks flaunts her legs in flirty cut-out LBD as she leaves The View in New York The 44-year-old TV personality looked flawless Lily James and Jessica Brown Findlay enjoy a Downton Abbey reunion at The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society world premiere Amal Clooney cuts a chic figure in LBD and cream coat as she steps out in New York City Another busy day for mom of two and human rights lawyer Jennifer Lawrence is in great spirits as she's pictured on a date with a hunky pal in New York City Hunger Games hottie, 27, looked very happy Vivica A.

Fox's Sharknado 6 castmates Tara Reid, Ian Ziering, and Cassie Scerbo attend her book bash She defied her 53 years Scott Disick, 34, is stony-faced as he is stopped by police while driving with girlfriend Sofia Richie, 19, in Los Angeles after doing an 'illegal turn''No airbrushing, no problem!'

Plus-size model Iskra Lawrence confidently flaunts her booty and 'thick thighs' in bikini shots Displayed her curves'I was shedding skin': Former Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman says that stepping down from her post made her look like a '190-year-old woman'Samuel L Jackson says Hollywood still has a long way to go dealing with racial equality... despite Black Panther's staggering success Setting box office records Sex pest Josh Duggar joins his family on visit to Chip and Joanna Gaines' Magnolia compound in Waco Joined by Michelle, Deanna, Mary and Josh Advertisement DON'T MISSModel royal!

Lady Amelia Windsor, 22, sparkles in an elegant jewel-studded corset - and flashes a hint of thigh - as she attends D&G show in New York Emily Blunt drinks 'disgusting' oil of oregano to cure her colds... despite the fact it 'burns your throat' Actress has VERY interesting remedy Gabrielle Union praises 'one of my favorite co-stars' Jessica Alba on Today Pai are appearing n a TV pilot spun off from the Bad Boys films Mom-to-be Cardi B admits she didn't trust fiancé Offset until he proposed... and reveals his friends once 'called her a DOG' Expecting first child Paula Patton is totally transformed as she unveils new blonde hair while shopping for groceries in Malibu Robin Thicke's ex looked VERY different Kris Jenner says daughter Khloe Kardashian is 'scared' about having her baby... as reality star preps for imminent birth First tot for reality star Kathleen Turner is still called 'dad' by Matthew Perry... after Friends guest stint when she played his father Charles Pair have stuck to joke Caitlyn Jenner, 68, dons denim shorts for dinner with constant companion Sophia Hutchins, 22, in Los Angeles Close since last June American Pie singer Don Mc Lean's MUCH younger girlfriend Paris Dylan, 24, flaunts her cleavage in playful lingerie He is 73 this year Bryce Dallas Howard admits she has been 'scared off' asking for better pay... as she feared being replaced The 27-year-old actress opened up to Redbook Khloe Kardashian reveals she is due ANY MINUTE as she shares kissing photo with Tristan She has been staying with him in Cleveland Amy Adams goes glam-free in Los Angeles as she totes takeaway snack and green drink Cut casual figure as she grabbed takeout snack Kate and Wills WON'T know if they are having a boy or a girl until the baby is delivered as countdown begins with parking suspended outside hospital Just like mom!

Catherine Zeta-Jones, 48, and look-alike daughter make elegant pair at the Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda event Ariana Grande to release her first new music since the Manchester Arena terror attack in England last year Singer, 24, back in fold Cardi B covers up her bump in an elaborate denim jacket as pregnant rapper heads out after big reveal She confirmed her pregnancy this weekend A VERY racy royal girlfriend!

Son of Norway's Crown Princess Mette Marit is dating a former Playboy model known for her bikini snaps'Overwhelmed by him': Actress Teresa Palmer gushes about one-year-old son Forest as the adorable pair cheekily poke their tongues at each other Amy Schumer takes on her dad Gordon in a game of poker as she visits his assisted living facility in Beverly Hills He suffers from multiple sclerosis. Stunning Anna Lynne Mc Cord shows off her lean legs as she poses in glamorous lace gown for VERY glmaorous photo shoot Actress looked amazing Vacation mode!

America's Got Talent judge Heidi Klum, 44, goes topless as she puts on a sexy display with younger beau Tom Kaulitz, 28, in Mexico Carrie Underwood to perform LIVE for first time in FIVE MONTHS... as she's recovered from accident Blonde beauty is set to make a big comeback Angry animal lover Ricky Gervais shares shocking video of cruel Chinese meat trade featuring a man slaughtering tied-up dog with cleaver Harry and Meghan reveal passion for women's rights and the environment as they name charities people can donate to instead of giving wedding gifts Celebs DO love to get dolled-up!

Talented artist creates tiny replicas of A-list stars including Jennifer Lawrence and Natalie Portman using acrylics, and dry pastels Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kenya Moore, 47, and husband Marc Daly are expecting their first child together Reality star married restaurant owner in 2017Is that really you, Mariah?

New ad campaign shows diva throwing a tantrum after an assistant booked her into a $40-a-night hostel in Barcelona Chloe Moretz breaks silence on Brooklyn Beckham kiss: Actress listens to Cardi B's new 'cheating' track after ex was seen kissing model Lexi Wood Who is Neri Oxman?

The MIT professor that stole Brad Pitt's heart after Angelina Jolie split The matinee idol is said to be dating the academic Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie have a mini Simple Life reunion...11 years after the show ended Hugely popular show ran for four years Ed Westwick steps out with girlfriend Jessica Serfaty in LA... as fashion stylist accusing him of sexual abuse files official complaint to the LAPDWild thing!

Princess Marie of Denmark, 42, steps out in a leopard print skirt with a snakeskin bag as she visits a school in Copenhagen Meghan's got talent!

Harry's wife-to-be shows off star quality as she sings and dances at her school graduation in front of proud parents aged just 11'Holy s**t, your ex is going to be a princess!'

RHONY's Bethenny Frankel reveals she dated Meghan Markle's ex-husband Trevor Engelson Has Meghan asked ex Burberry chief to make her wedding dress? Designer Henry Holland reveals why he believes Christopher Bailey may have landed the job Back on top! Ronda Rousey wins her debut WWE match as the crowd cheered 'This is awesome!' a year after her disappointing UFC comeback Shine actor Geoffrey Rush 'virtually housebound, barely eats, struggles to sleep and wakes up with a sense of dread' over sex abuse allegations Party time!

Ali Fedotowsky throws beach baby shower with pals including Kaley Cuoco She won hearts as The Bachelorette Drake parties with bevy of girls as he enjoys raucous night out in London... after surprising fans with new single Enjoying himself in UKConor Mc Gregor's father shows he is standing by his shamed UFC fighter after he attacked rival fighters' bus with Instagram post about 'DNA'Kris Jenner, 62, flashes her legs in chic mini dress alongside beau Corey Gamble, 33, at Daily Front Row Awards Date night for the duo The morning after the night before!

Princess Di's niece Lady Kitty Spencer gets caught in the rain in Gucci loafers following appearance at a NYC fashion show Introducing Princess Alice?

Oddsmakers reveal most popular name for Kate and Wills' baby (and it's closely followed by PHILIP in a nod to Queen's hubby)Ryan Seacrest shows he's a man of many talents as he impressively sings Hello with Lionel Richie on American Idol The pair did a little duet Chewbacca gets into a passionate embrace and his age is FINALLY revealed in new trailer for Solo: A Star Wars Story Eagerly awaited movie Victoria and Albert in color: Incredible archive of thousands of never-before seen digitized photographs give a glimpse into life in the Royal household Pregnant Chrissy Teigen shows off her bump in plunging white form-fitting dress as she joins husband John Legend at Daily Front Row Awards Kelly Osbourne beams as she puts on affectionate display with mystery man in Malibu Carrying a black jacket and her beloved Pomeranian dog, Polly Queen Letizia of Spain beams as she attends an awards ceremony in Madrid - after putting on a united front with her mom-in-law following taped 'tense' exchange You Keep Me Hangin' On singer Kim Wilde, 57, wows fans with her 'amazing' ageless appearance on TV... as she claims she has had NO plastic surgery'We've never had a fight': Bernie Taupin reveals secrets to his 50-year partnership with Elton John, and how he has to write their songs in complete seclusion Bella Hadid shows off her supermodel figure in skimpy checked dress as she makes animated appearance at TAG bash in Tokyo Enviably slender frame Revealed: The Queen's perfumer has created a bespoke fragrance for Meghan to wear on her wedding day - and it's a citrus scent inspired by the Mediterranean Brooke Burke beams as she steps out with kids after David Charvet split The pair annouced they are divorcing after seven years Matt Damon is given an Australian tour by new BFF Chris Hemsworth as the two spend time with their families at a school sports day in Byron Bay, Australia PICTURE EXCLUSIVE: Janice Dickinson jets in to Pennsylvania to give evidence at Bill Cosby's retrial after claiming she was raped by the comic Getting 24/7 security Catching up!

Kourtney Kardashian has dinner with her kids and Kendall Jenner in Malibu after her island getaway with boytoy Younes Stormy Daniels' lawyer says he'll release composite sketch of the man who 'threatened' her and offer a reward to identify him TOMORROWIt's still the word!

As Grease turns 40 years old, FEMAIL catches up on the lives and careers of the hit musical's biggest stars They have changed a lot Showdown time!Things get heated on Real Housewives Of Atlanta Reunion as Ne Ne Leakes says she's 'ready for the battle' with Kim Zolciak Blac Chyna 'is confident' her Magic Mountain brawl will not affect joint custody agreement with Rob Kardashian over daughter Dream How THOR-tful!

Chris Hemsworth treats parents to a night at the Commonwealth Games in Sydney as they watch track events from grandstands Amelia Hamlin rocks chic blazer dress as she joins mother Lisa Rinna and sister Delilah at Daily Front Row Awards after revealing anorexia battle Beach babe!

Blanca Blanco sprints on the sand while showing fit physique in tiny pink striped bikini in Malibu The 37-year-old actress hit the beach Boy George admits he accidentally watched How To Get Away With Murder instead of Scandal... and got through two SEASONS before he realized Pretty in pink!

Hilaria Baldwin showcases baby bump with Alec on red carpet at Mean Girls Broadway opening night She's pregnant with the couple's third boy Katy Perry squirms on American Idol after her religious parents call her 'mouthy' as top 24 begin performing They embarrassed their superstar daughter Paris Hilton, Emily Ratajkowski and pregnant Chrissy Teigen take the plunge as they lead the A-list glamour at the Daily Front Row Fashion Awards A busty display!

Sean 'Diddy' Combs shows off girlfriend Cassie's voluptuous curves in white bikini on Instagram Enjoying their vacation Jersey Shore's Pauly D keen to join forces with stars from the UK's Geordie Shore for wild new show... but fears 'someone will end up DYING'Hiding out?

Donald Trump Jr dons camouflage and poses on cliff's edge during trip in Spain after wife Vanessa filed for divorce in ugly split'She's allowing Harry to take the lead': Body language expert reveals Meghan's 'deference' for Prince (compared to her 'lack of warmth' for her first husband)Making a splash!

Kourtney Kardashian drops jaws in tiny bikini during fun-filled getaway to Turks and Caicos Star looked amazing Sofia Vergara cuddles up to hubby Joe Manganiello in weekend getaway snaps she shares to Instagram The couple tied the knot in 2015Back to business! Princess Mary of Denmark dazzles crowds at a finance conference in Copenhagen following a family break in Verbier Ripped!

Justin Bieber strips down for a dip in Malibu swimming hole... after earlier run in with crazed fan The popstar went for a refreshing dip Brooklyn Beckham is engrossed in his phone after being pictured with new girlfriend... as he joins dad David and brothers at LA Galaxy game Watch out Willy Wonka!

Gwyneth Paltrow gives son Moses the sweetest 12th birthday party ever at sugar pop-up Candytopia in LA'She's had a really rough time': Friends fear for 'heartbroken' Ruby Rose after her split with singer Jessica Origliasso OITNB star was rocked Paris Jackson nails rocker chic in a khaki green cami dress and matching bomber jacket at Daily Front Row Awards Michael Jackson's girl Charlize Theron puts on a very leggy display in sexy leather shorts and killer heels as she's feted at San Francisco Film Festival Red carpet appearance Jimmy Kimmel reveals death threats he has received against his wife and young son after Sean Hannity feud as he apologizes to the gay community Puckering up!

Heidi Klum, 44, kisses new boyfriend Tom Kaulitz, 28, as they arrive in Mexico for romantic vacation Putting on the PDAThe Late Late Show's James Corden and wife Julia enjoy romantic beach stroll as they vacation in Cabo with Molly Sims and Rachel Zoe Trump's sons spent '$73,000 of TAXPAYERS money' on their trip to Dubai to attend lavish wedding of their billionaire business partner's daughter Black Panther surpasses Titanic to enter top three of all-time grossing films at domestic box office The Disney-Marvel motion picture Nicole Scherzinger is hippie chic in a tie-dye maxi as she steps out in West Hollywood after being axed from the X Factor UK Singer, 39, looked happy'Her dad, the billionaire, seems like a great guy': Jeremy Meeks' murdering rapist father says he's 'looking forward' to meeting Chloe and Philip Green'I have no idea!'

Blake Lively admits fears she's 'not equipped' for motherhood as she and husband Ryan Reynolds act to protect their young daughters Prince Charles dons a traditional feather headband for an Aboriginal welcome ceremony before enjoying a spiritual blessing Naomie Harris exudes elegance in a patterned ballgown as she joins co-star Dwayne Johnson at Rampage photocall in Shanghai Moonlight actress Couple goals!

Blake Lively hilariously trolls Ryan Reynolds as she compliments HERSELF instead of husband She took to Instagram Sunday Nicole Richie is stylish in purple gown embellished with silver flowers at awards show in LA The 36-year-old flashed a little cleavage Khloe Kardashian's ex-boyfriend French Montana launches a menswear line for Boohoo MAN inspired by his Moroccan heritage Includes tropical prints SPOILER The Walking Dead: Negan fights right-hand man Simon and vows to kill 'every last one' of Rick's crew Sunday's episode of the show Dakota Fanning glitters in embellished pink frock at Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda event in NYC At the Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Center Doting dad!

Josh Duhamel holds hands with four-year-old son Axl... amid rumors he's dating actress Eiza Gonzalez Transformers actor George Clooney accepts a gift from homeless man turned actor Radioman in New York City He was stood outside star's residence Adrien Brody, 44, and model girlfriend Lara Lieto, 24, share passionate kiss during errand run The couple looked very much in love Diane Kruger showcases ample bosom in off-the-shoulder patterned blouse at D&G event in NYC The actress is 41She's a material girl!

Madonna, 59, puts on a busty display in black lace corset as she poses for sultry snap in Lisbon Took to Instagram Prolific voice actor and comedian Chuck Mc Cann who recorded the famous line 'I'm cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs!'

dies aged 83 Very familiar TV face Still causing trouble! Guest reveals Conor Mc Gregor was 'being rowdy' at Manhattan hotel just hours after getting released from jail Rita Ora showcases her off-duty style in bold panelled joggers and a sporty bumbag during low-key stroll in New York Hot Right Now hitmaker Baywatch babe!

Charlotte Mc Kinney shows off her endless legs in retro mini dress at Daily Front Row Awards Donned tiny dress Alex Rodriguez Face Times Jennifer Lopez during Ellen show as De Generes quizzes pair on how they met Ex-MLB star opened up Kylie Jenner's daughter Stormi is lavished with love as she meets her father Travis Scott's family Rapper took Stormi to meet his relatives A beaming Erica Packer enjoys a day on the water with friends in Sydney as ex-husband James continues treatment for mental health issues Full of Glee!

Lea Michele and Zandy Reich share a quick kiss at lunch before heading off on a hike with her father The duo puckered up for all to see Slam dunk!

Eddie Murphy and girlfriend Paige Butcher stroll hand-in-hand into afternoon basketball game Seen in LA'My perverted chihuahua has a thing for my underwear': Ruby Rose goes on bizarre rant after finding her dirty lingerie scattered across yard Elsa Pataky, 41, flaunts her trim pins in a leather jacket and electric blue boots as she swaps her trademark bohemian style for an edgy look for photo shoot Playing with fire!

Kim Kardashian sizzles as she showcases torso in red string bikini during Turks and Caicos trip The 38-year-old shared images and videos Tiger Woods and ex-wife Elin Nordegren are 'friends now' and 'get along really well' 'Closer now than they were when they were married,' an insider says Sure to be a page-turner!

Chrissy Metz wears colorful tropical fish-themed dress for book signing in Los Angeles The This Is Us star Vanessa Trump 'filed for divorce from Donald Trump Jr after her family's multi-million dollar windfall' from her late father's investments A family affair!

Jennifer Garner and her ex Ben Affleck put on a united front as they take their children to church In Pacific Palisades on Sunday Rumors continue to swirl that Matt Damon is planning a move Down Under where his 'great friend Chris Hemsworth enjoys the quiet life away from Hollywood'Picture perfect! Leonardo Di Caprio shares snap with Dame Jane Goodall and Moby at 'inspiring' LA fundraiser Titanic actor went casual Brooklyn Beckham flashes new pin-up tattoo which looks VERY similar to Playboy model new flame Lexi Wood Seen sharing a kiss Puppy love!

Liev Schreiber, 50, and girlfriend Taylor Neisen, 26, dote on pet pooch during bundled up NYC outing Quick trip to the dog park Justin Bieber dodges crazed female fan with gift waiting for him in parking lot after spin class The pop star dodged a determined female fan Today's headlines Most Read PICTURED: Strip club worker who 'kissed and spent hotel weekend with Tristan Thompson days before girlfriend... Something to smile about?

Trump's attorney Michael Cohen grins as he leaves Manhattan restaurant after... The divided states of America: Major health study warns US is at breaking point as the wealthy coasts thrive...'Why are you doing this?'

Final words of Morgan Freeman's granddaughter as she was stabbed to death in the... European Commission investigators raid Rupert Murdoch's Fox HQ in London as part of continent-wide probe... Mark Zuckerberg tells Congress Facebook is 'working with' Mueller's investigators as lawmakers demand... Zuckerberg is quizzed repeatedly on perceived left-wing bias on Facebook after claims it censored Trump...

Check your Facebook account NOW: Site launches a tool to reveal if your private data has been compromised in... Americans 'have different sensibilities' to Europeans on Facebook data privacy, Zuckerberg tells Senators as... Facebook will 'always' be free (at least, for those who don't mind seeing ads), says Zuckerberg The real booster!

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One of our readers, Aaron, caught up with William H. Macy on the set of his new Showtime series, Shameless, in Chicago Saturday. William chatted with the crew and posed for a photo with Aaron between takes. The series, which is set in Chicago, primarily shoots in Los Angeles, but they did spend 5 days last week filming exteriors in a Chicago neighborhood near W Ogden Av & S Christiana Ave.

In Photos: âShamelessâ filming in Chicago

Chicago On Location Photos In Photos: ‘Shameless’ filming in Chicago By Christine - November 15, 2010tweet

The movie is about a family of misfits, led by lovable alcoholic Frank Gallagher (Macy). According to Showtime, “Chicagoan Frank Gallagher is the proud single dad of six smart, industrious, independent kids, who without him would be… perhaps better off.

When Frank’s not at the bar spending what little money they have, he’s passed out on the floor. But the kids have found ways to grow up in spite of him.

They may not be like any family you know, but they make no apologies for being exactly who they are.”The series also stars Emmy Rosum, Cameron Monaghan, Ethan Cutkosky, Emma Kenney, Jeremy Allen White, and Joan Cusack. Check out more of Aaron’s photos from Saturday’s shoot below and remember if you have any on location photos you’d like to share, you can let us know at olv@onlocationvacations.com!

[nggallery id=232] [Thanks Aaron! ]TAGS Celeb Sighting Celebrities in Chicago Set Photos Shameless Shameless Filming In Chicago Shameless Filming Locationsshowtime series shameless William H. Macytweet Previous article Bill Clinton spotted on “Hangover 2” set Next article Filming News Wrap-Up: John Cusack gets his Poe on, Heigl drops ‘Adaline’, Natalie Portman to be honored at PSFF, and more headlines Christine


who is aziz hashim

.”Aziz Hashim believes he knows what franchisors need to attract multi-unit operators like himself. Now he’s selling off his stores, once numbering 60, and will launch what he calls the first private equity fund owned by franchisees. The goal is to buy brands and re-make them the right way.

Power to the 'Zee

Power to the 'Zee How franchising’s squeakiest wheel plans to gain clout for fellow operators, by buying brands and trying to fix them By Beth Ewen Published: 07.30.2014The crew at NRD Holdings, left to right: Karim Dobani, Brianna Williams, Lilo Miller, Andy Bhayani, Andy Polan, Aziz Hashim, Monty Lech, Shana Gonzales and Danyelle Washington. Bhayani, the company’s CFO, says “it’s intellectually challenging” to work for Hashim. “It’s his network. He goes to all the conferences. He gets to know all the new trends

But does he know the secret sauce that transforms a franchise? Can he compete in the cutthroat world of private equity, even while shedding the very stores that give him power? “I’m going to give it a whirl,” he says. E very other week or so, according to Aziz Hashim, a few executives from a franchise brand come to visit him, hats in hand, in search of the holy grail: How can their system attract multi-unit operators like him to buy their stores?

“They ask me, ‘Can you endorse us? Can we pay you a fee?’” says Hashim, owner and CEO of NRD Holdings, which owned more than 60 units in Popeyes, Checkers/Rally’s, Petvalu and others until he began selling them off very recently.

Hashim has decked out his headquarters to impress, in a gleaming building with loads of glass in Atlanta, north of the fashionable Buckhead neighborhood where he and the rest of the city’s power elite live.

An intricately carved wood installation fashioned by a local craftsman frames the reception desk. An enormous hand-painted mural adorns a glass panel in the conference room, lit from the back with LED lights. Next to his office is the executive lounge, with a stylish charcoal-gray banquette dotted with coral pillows and facing one stately chair, Hashim’s.

He was born in Pakistan and spent his youth in London, and prefers to blend Asian, Middle Eastern and European design. But the décor goes beyond personal taste, and is carefully selected to make a statement: Hashim is a franchisee to be reckoned with.

He’s the embodiment of a shifting balance of power over the last few years that puts many multi-unit operators on equal footing with, or in many cases several rungs above, the franchisor whose stores they buy and whose rules they follow.“I could convert a marginal brand into an investable brand,” says Aziz Hashim, CEO of NRD Holdings, about his new plan to launch a franchisee-owned private equity fund to purchase franchisors.

“We can make a difference in a lot of brands that are stuck.”Hashim is a vocal critic of franchisors who don’t treat their franchisees as partners, and he uses his bully pulpit to say so as the rising chairman of the International Franchise Association. (When he becomes chairman in 2016, he will be one of just a few franchisees to hold the post in IFA history.)

He scoffs when, at conferences, the spotlight always shines on franchisor execs and rarely on franchisees. “CEOs of brands with literally 20 stores will be keynote speakers, and in the audience are franchisees with 300 stores.

And somehow that franchisor knows more?” he says. “I find it comical.”He knows which brands he’d never touch. “You look at the boards of companies that purport to be franchisors, and you will be hard-pressed to find a franchisee anywhere.

How strange is that?” he says, adding such companies often lace their disdain of franchisees throughout their management practices. “I think the industry needs to take a stronger look at the wisdom and talent of franchisees and use that.”Now, Hashim is set to make a bold move to allow franchisees to claim what he believes is their rightful place. He will launch a private equity fund, with an initial goal of raising $25 million to $100 million, and solicit investments from fellow multi-unit franchisees.

He will then hunt for franchisors in all industries that meet his five iron-clad criteria, the same rules he uses when deciding which brands’ stores to buy as a franchisee (see sidebar).

“The No. 1 metric is, would I be a franchisee of that brand?” he says, and he believes his fund will be able to work with franchises it buys to tweak the operations of those that are almost there but not quite.“It makes all the sense in the world to invest in brands that you also own,” Hashim says, explaining what he’ll tell other multi-unit operators, to convince them to invest.

“It would be a sea change in a great way” for franchising. “Franchisees have not participated in the financial upside of the franchisor. Why shouldn’t we have a piece of that upside, in something we’ve helped to create?”If only the brass-knuckle world of private equity, and the complex and slow task of brand transformation, were that easy.

Not so simple Several miles south and right in the middle of tony Buckhead is Roark Capital, the private equity fund that’s the current superstar of franchising’s mergers and acquisitions game. “Every brand, if they could wave a magic wand—Roark buys them,” says Nick Powills about the fantasies of franchisors. He’s chief brand strategist at No Limit Agency in Chicago and Hashim’s PR agency for the past five months.

(Like the opulent headquarters, unusual for a franchisee, a multi-unit operator who spends money on a public relations firm is also rare. )No one knows how competitive that game is better than Steve Romaniello, managing director at Roark, who just finished his own service as IFA chairman and knows Hashim well.

Private equity firms have plenty to spend—a recent Wall Street Journal article put the number above $1.1 trillion—and with debt markets booming as well, many investors want to play. “There are a lot of private equity firms with capital, there is a pretty vibrant debt market right now, and that causes things to heat up,” he says.

Romaniello calls Hashim a “terrific” leader at the IFA: “Aziz is very smart. He’s very balanced. He’s extraordinarily articulate, and as a result he’s able to be very effective in a leadership capacity.” His praise extends to Hashim’s chops as a restaurant operator.

(Hashim was a franchisee of Moe’s Southwest Grill, one of Roark’s companies, and some of his family members still are.) “He’s able to make money, he’s able to drive results in a way that makes the franchisor proud of the way he’s operating.”Once a company owns a brand, of course, the turnaround is never as easy as imagined.

Wan Kim, today the CEO of Smoothie King, is just one of many who found that out when he, the master franchisee in South Korea at the time, assembled investors and bought the franchisor, then moved to New Orleans to operate it.

He wanted to make quick changes, such as re-write contracts with suppliers and re-make the brand identity, but found that one year dragged into two without significant movement.“I think for the last year I haven’t delivered something to them,” Kim said a year ago on the eve of the annual convention, referring to Smoothie King franchisees.

“I am trying to deliver some of the promises and explain what has happened.”Powills, with No Limit Agency, believes if anyone can do it, it’s Hashim.

“I really think he could be, if not the smartest, one of the smartest people I’ve met in franchising, which means he’s extremely calculated,” Powills says, and that includes his move into leadership at the IFA, which puts him in front of multiple franchisors.

“Aziz is such an amazing chess player. He knows what he’s doing and he’s five steps ahead of everyone else.”While franchisees certainly have bought or founded franchisors before and assembled investors to do so, Powills can’t think of any other franchisee who has started a fund dedicated to attracting other franchisees as investors and purchasing franchise brands.

Dennis Monroe, founder of Monroe Moxness Berg law firm in Minneapolis who has worked on financing deals for Hashim, agrees this fund brings a new twist to the mergers and acquisitions market. “What’s really novel about it is he’s going to try to get best-of-class franchisors as their targets, the ones that really put the franchisees first, and then do some tweaking,” he said. “People give lip service about the partnership, but right now it’s still so one-sided” in favor of the franchisor.“I think it’s a great idea,” Monroe adds about the targets Hashim will seek to acquire.

“The key is deal flow, and if anyone can do it, he can probably do it. He is a very, very talented guy.”Entering and exiting Hashim, now 47, was a newly minted electrical engineer working a good job at a prestigious corporation—but he lasted only nine months until the cubicle life bored him silly.

He quit, gained a loan from his parents who mortgaged their house, bought and sold an auto parts business and then with the proceeds purchased a KFC store in Atlanta in 1996.

He was returning to his roots, having worked at Burger King as a teenager after his family’s move to California. Right away, he says, he knew the way to go was to become a multi-unit operator. “I wanted to work on the business, not in the business,” Hashim says, and he invested heavily in systems far beyond what a typical single-unit operator would do.

“I hired people and did things that normally you wouldn’t have as a small franchisee,” he says, such as renting office space and hiring a controller.

His training as an engineer was never wasted, even though he turned to restaurant operations instead. “It gives you a way of problem-solving that is different. It’s objective,” Hashim says. “Engineering is about solving problems using data. From the very early time I started learning about how business works.”By 2004, NRD Holdings had grown to 50 stores, just short of the 60 he would own at the company’s peak, and Hashim began taking a course different from most franchisees; he began timing his investments like a stockbroker.

“That’s my strategy. I enter and exit brands based on the brand’s business cycle. One of the tricks is to get in on the expansion part of the cycle and exit before it goes on the downward swing,” he says.

“The idea is to find a brand that’s on the uptick and ride that wave as long as you can.”He bought Checkers/Rally’s stores in 2003, Pet Valu stores in 2011, and Popeyes starting in 2009. In the past he’s owned Subway, KFC, Long John Silver’s, Domino’s, Moe’s Southwest Grill and others.

Popeyes is his best example of good timing to date, he says. “We caught that six months after Cheryl Bachelder took over. I had a sense that she was a very strong leader,” he says. Bachelder, Popeyes CEO, returns the compliment to Hashim when reached by phone.

“We’re delighted to have him in our system. He has been a real positive source for our brand,” she says. “One of the reasons Aziz likes our system is that we treasure the franchisees as our business partners.

We don’t just tolerate them; we treasure them. The reason we do that is because that makes the business model work better.“We have found working closely with our franchise association and its leaders to be a competitive advantage. As a result we have done some bold things in our system that have grown our market share and profitability,” she says.

For example, Popeyes in 2008 decided to purchase national media for the brand, rather than rely on local co-op advertising. “It was a bold move because we gave up local dollars in favor of national dollars, which is always hotly debated. We formed a board around the data, and we decided to go for it,” Bachelder says. At franchisees’ urging, corporate also committed the franchisor’s money to the national media effort in 2008 and 2009, to show partnership with the franchisees and reduce their risk.

“It worked brilliantly, and doing it together and having the amazing sales outcomes has made them very enthusiastic to continue with the brand,” she says about franchisees. “And since 2008 our media dollars have tripled because our sales are strong.”Bachelder has witnessed the rise of the multi-unit operator, sought-after especially since the financial meltdown in 2008 that wiped out many mom-and-pop shops.

“We love the fact that they have infrastructure, particularly around people—trained, experienced operators—and around construction and development.

They bring a sophistication that doesn’t exist with the smaller operator.”As for Hashim’s well-known operating mode to get in and out of brands along with their fortunes, she’s fine with that because she intends to keep Popeyes strong. “I believe it is the franchisor’s job to keep their brand vital, relevant, growing, profitable, providing return, so I don’t mind being held to the standard of being the performance brand for my owners,” she says. Getting more to ‘own it’Hashim is busy shifting resources to start the new fund, which he expects to launch in the fourth quarter of this year.

Valuations are great, which makes this a good time to sell his stores, thus reducing his operational needs so he can pivot to raising money and then pursuing brands to buy.

He would like to see as many people as possible get into franchise ownership, he says, because he believes it’s the best way to be an entrepreneur. “I think where we are in economic terms in this country is people will need to be more responsible for their own financial destiny. Franchising will become even more relevant,” he says.“I felt franchising has been good to me. I started with nothing,” says Aziz Hashim.

“I have a passion for people going on the same path that I did. It gives me a lot of satisfaction.”Since 2010 he’s had a program at NRD called Own It!, a system that creates a path for every member of the organization to become a franchisee.

Every employee, including the entry-level person in the store, goes through orientation and is introduced to the process. “We feel that gives people hope. No one’s going to work for you unless they can get ahead,” he says.

Eight have completed the program all the way through, now owning stores of their own. “I would be happy if everyone quit to become their own franchisees,” Hashim says. He believes his fund will give other multi-unit operators a way to diversify their holdings, and add a strong operator’s point of view to the management of any brand it owns. He plans to use the fund to allow domestic multi-unit franchisees a way to expand their holdings overseas, an opportunity that eludes them now as most franchisors partner with a franchisee based in the foreign country.

He will be happy to add his voice at the top. “That’s the exciting part of it. I get to influence the attitude of the franchisor, to tweak it just enough to be a potential prospect.

There were times when I left a brand when I didn’t like the direction. Now I actually control the direction.“I could convert a marginal brand into an investable brand,” he says.

“We can make a difference in a lot of brands that are stuck.”As for all the competition, he still believes he’s got a secret weapon—an endorsement by multi-unit franchisees, the owners of the fund who may also want to purchase stores in the brands they buy.“I felt franchising has been good to me.

I started with nothing,” he says. “My goal now is to accelerate the ‘own it’ philosophy,” Hashim says, musing it’s a good time to make a career change. Continuing to add stores, as other multi-unit operators do, is impressive, he says, but not interesting to him.“I think it’s time” to make a change.

“There’s an inflection point where you have to make decisions about the way forward. I have a passion for people going on the same path that I did. It gives me a lot of satisfaction. I’ve been fortunate, and I have the choice to be able to do this,” he says.

He wouldn’t call this change in direction a mid-life crisis, however. “I hope not. It depends on how it turns out,” he says with a serene smile, leaning back in his regal chair in his tony executive lounge. “I’m going to give it a whirl.”What do multi-unit operators want? Here’s one answer“I’ve been counseling franchisees for over a decade, about what franchises they should purchase,” says Aziz Hashim, CEO of NRD Holdings.

“Franchisors, I tell them the same thing” about what multi-unit operators like himself look for, which he calls the five P’s.

What’s surprising to him is how few people do their due diligence, by calling multiple current franchisees before deciding to buy. “I’ve been in 10 brands and I’ve been called probably three times” over the years, he says, by prospective franchisees. Here’s how Hashim makes his picks:1. Product or service: Be very comfortable with it. Is it something you would consume?

Would you be passionate about it? Would you have zero reservations offering it to family and friends?2. Profitability: “You have to make sure you can make money,” Hashim says. He reviewed a franchise recently, he says, with $1.3 million in annual sales and really good food, but it couldn’t generate any profits.

He would pass—or, with his new fund, he might buy it and tweak the aspect that could be fixed. For example, one brand he’s scouting has a store build-out cost about 30 to 40 percent higher than it needs to be, according to Hashim.

“As a franchisee I passed. The average unit volumes were great, but because it costs so much to build, it would take eight years to get my money back.

That’s too long.”3. Partnership: How does the franchisor look at franchisees? What’s the culture?

“Is the franchisee seen as a client or as a commodity?” Hashim asks. And CEOs, take note: He wants a direct line to the CEO, whom he considers an equal partner, not a promotional pitch or a go-between.4. Processes: Does the franchisor have the means to support franchisees? “I look at a lot of emerging brands.

They come to my offices and see that I’m bigger than they are,” Hashim says, and that doesn’t inspire confidence.5. People: Management must be credible, with a clear vision for where the brand is going and resources to achieve it. Hashim says management has become more important than ever since the recession; before, a rising economic tide lifted all boats. Now, he pays much closer attention to who’s leading the charge, and will enter or exit a brand based on that fact alone.