NBC, which has traditionally been the first network to unveil its fall
programming to advertisers in the so-called May "upfronts," may give up the
lead-off spot next year after seeing its rivals quickly target its most
promising programs. Newsday noted today (Monday) that NBC Entertainment
President Kevin Reilly made the unreported comment on Thursday, the day he
announced numerous changes in the previously disclosed schedule, including
shifting the network's much-anticipated new drama Studio 60 on the Sunset
Strip to Monday from Thursday, where it would have faced not only CBS's
CSI but also ABC's Grey's Anatomy, both established hits.
Reporting on the network's plans, Newsday commented, "Bowing out of the
lead spot would represent a huge concession on the part of former market leader
NBC and mark the end of an era for the network."
29/05/2006