Turner Trying New Upfront Approach
Plans Programming ‘Summits’ in 5 Cities Starting in March
In Depth
Cowell Defends Abdul’s Behavior
“American Idol” judge Simon Cowell came to Paula Abdul’s defense Saturday, defending his co-star against accusations of inebriation during recent media interviews. “I’ve done those satellite interviews so many times and by the end of it I’m talking complete and…
Liguori Downplays Fox Controversies
Fox Entertainment President Peter Liguori dismissed questions about some of the network’s latest controversies, including “Idol” host Paula Abdul’s recent bizarre behavior and charges that “24” vilifies Muslims. Mr. Liguori, speaking at the Television Critics Association’s semi-annual press tour, was…
ABC Wins Thursday Night Ratings Game
With no “American Idol” scheduled on Thursdays (at least, not yet), Fox’s competitors rebounded last night to their usual nightly ranking. ABC was first, led by “Grey’s Anatomy” with an 8.7, according to Nielsen Media Research. In the 8 p.m….
Versus to Televise Cagefighting
Versus is punching its way onto the mixed martial arts bandwagon.The Comcast-owned cable channels said it formed a partnership with World Extreme Cagefighting. As part of the deal, Versus will televise World Extreme Cagefighting action starting this summer. Spike already…
CW Announces ‘Crowned’ Reality Series, ‘Chris’ Renewal
The CW announced a new reality series called “Crowned,” an eight-episode competition program where mother-daughter teams work together to win a beauty pageant. “Our new series ‘Crowned’ takes a close look at one of the most emotional and volatile of…
New Fox Series to Get ‘Idol’ Boost
With the sixth season of “American Idol” breaking ratings records, Fox plans to use the powerhouse reality show to help debut its new David E. Kelley drama, boost ratings for a struggling sitcom, and possibly launch other new shows. Mr….
‘Idol’ Continues Domination
Fox’s two-hour “American Idol” delivered its highest Wednesday night premiere numbers ever among adults 18 to 49, following its record-setting Tuesday premiere. “Idol” earned a 15.4 rating after a 15.7 Tuesday night premiere. That’s up 18 percent from the same…
Kucinich Could Revive Fairness Doctrine
Add Congressman and Democratic Presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich to the list of challengers to the Federal Communications Commission — and potentially to media companies.The Ohio congressman was formally named on Wednesday to head the Domestic Policy panel of the House…
Chandler Family Makes Tribune Buyout Offer
(Corrects Bid Amount) The Chandler Trusts has made a $7.6 billion bid to buy Tribune Co. and spin off its broadcast and entertainment businesses.In a filing Thursday with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the value of the Chandler deal was…