Networks prepare for second half

26Jun07

SYDNEY: Australian drama and reality programming will feature heavily across the Seven, Ten and Nine networks’ programming schedules for the second half of 2007.

The three networks have now released their programming line ups for the second half of the year, with Seven Network last night hosting a function at Sydney’s NIDA theatre to launch its second half offering to media buyers and clients.

Seven, which has this year won 16 of the 20 weeks of the 2007 TV ratings season, shows little signs of slowing its momentum with former ABC darlings Kath & Kim joining a line-up of new Australian TV including police drama series City Homicide and Jamie Durie’s lifestyle program, Australia’s Best Backyards.

The two shows join new series of Dancing With The Stars, Surf Patrol, Border Security, Prison Break and Heroes. Both Prison Break and Heroes will be screened in Australia directly after their US debuts.

US series to air on Seven later this year include Criminal Minds, another series of Ghost Whisperer, Las Vegas, Bones and new series Shark.

Speaking at last night’s launch, David Leckie, chief executive officer of Seven Media Group, said Seven was "really going for it".

“We’ve come a long way, but we have a long way to go. We’re not resting on our laurels, we’re really going for it.”

Network Ten yesterday unveiled its second half line up, announcing three new programs: Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader? to be hosted by Rove McManus, America’s Next Top Model, and new comedy series starring David Duchovny, Californication.

Ten will also have another shot at airing the US version of The Office.

A new season of Thank God You’re Here, Australian Idol, as well as the AFL Grand Final and the Rugby World Cup will air on Ten.

The Nine Network will tonight launch the $15 million drama series Sea Patrol and is no doubt banking on the show to lift its ratings performance.

Nine Network features a host of reality programming in the second half of 2007 with new series of RPA and RPA Where Are They Now, Things To Try Before You Die, Surprise Surprise Gotcha, The Farmer Wants a Wife, Posh: Coming to America, Dirty Jobs and  The Girls of the Playboy Mansion.

Nine will also broadcast the documentary of the English Royal Family Monarchy.

Returning US drama from Nine includes the CSI franchise Cold Case and Without a Trace and emergency series ER. Nine will also show the final season of hit US series The Sopranos.

These programs join Nine regulars What’s Good For You, 20 to 01, The Footy Show and game show 1 vs 100.

SBS will reveal its second half programming line up later next week.

Story by: Matthew Eaton , Adnews

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