UPDATE (2/29/08): The Hollywood Reporter is now reporting that the show is caught in a tug-of-war between NBC and ABC. The online site writes:
ABC is in negotiations to pick up 18 episodes of the series from ABC Studios, which has produced the comedy for NBC since 2001.
NBC brass are said to have been caught off guard when THR.com broke the story Thursday.
A network insider said NBC is still in "first negotiation period" -- a period of exclusive negotiations -- with ABC Studios.
ABC Studios chose not to respond.
Given the history between NBC and ABC Studios, which have been at odds over the quirky medical comedy since the get-go, industry observers are preparing for an ugly battle between the two over a series considered to be on its final lap.
The original story follows....
Details are still sketchie, but here's the latest breaking news. From The Hollywood Reporter:
Longtime NBC comedy "Scrubs" is heading to rival network ABC. Sources say ABC is in negotiations to pick up 18 episodes of the show from ABC Studios, which has produced the series for NBC since 2001. A broadcast show switching networks, though often discussed during contract renewals, is a rare event. Previous network jumpers include "JAG" (NBC to CBS) and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" (The WB to UPN). The writers strike cut short NBC's 18-episode final season order for the Zach Braff medical comedy to 12 episodes. Sources say the network has been reluctant to order additional episodes for next fall, citing the fact that it already has some remaining originals in the can. NBC reportedly floated various end game scenarios to producers, including ordering one final episode, or producing the remaining episodes direct to DVD. Details of the ABC deal are still being hammered out as contracts for most cast members and writers have not been picked up beyond the current season.
More at The Hollywood Reporter. According to the article, NBC plans to air the remaining 5 episodes beginning April 10th.
2 comments:
This is interesting - and definitely rare. I remember 'JAG' actually did better AFTER it was moved from NBC to CBS. Perhaps the Scrubbies will have a better home over on ABC. :)
Wow! This is shocking! I was just reading in TV Guide about the possibility of putting the remaining eps on dvd. They said there would be 4 eps. I hope lillykat is right about ABC being a better home.
Post a Comment