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You’ll Never Guess Which Cable Channel Bought Off-Net Rights to J.J. Abrams’ ‘Fringe’

May 25, 2012  •  Post A Comment

J.J. Abrams’ Fox series "Fringe" has sold its off-network syndication rights to a cable channel that may come as a surprise — the Discovery Communications channel Science, B&C reports.

The cable channel’s programming traditionally focuses on science — not science fiction — in areas such as space, technology and prehistory. The channel, which launched in 1996, has undergone a series of name changes, from its original working title Quark! to Discovery Science, The Science Channel and, eventually, just Science.

Science secured the rights to the first four seasons of “Fringe,” and the upcoming fifth season will also be part of the deal. That accounts for 100 episodes of the science-fiction program.

“Fringe,” which stars Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson and John Noble, premiered on Fox in fall 2008. It has been described as combining elements of “The X-Files,” “Altered States” and “The Twilight Zone.”

Terms of the deal with Science were not disclosed, but B&C reports that the package includes behind-the-scenes material and bonus footage that has not aired.

Debbie Myers, general manager and executive VP of Science, in announcing the acquisition, said: "’Fringe’ is the kind of smart, lean-forward programming that our viewers gravitate toward. The combination of compelling characters and excellent science-themed storytelling make this franchise a huge addition for our network. We’re going to deepen the audience experience with ‘Fringe’ by giving them more of the access to the writers and creative process than ever. We’re also going to work with our cadre of leading experts to explore the real-world science that provides the foundation for these completely engrossing narratives."

fringe-anna-torv.jpg"Fringe" star Anna Torv

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