With no obvious blockbuster emerging from the

Inspiration meets innovation at Brandweek, the ultimate marketing experience. Join industry luminaries, rising talent and strategic experts in Phoenix, Arizona this September 23–26 to assess challenges, develop solutions and create new pathways for growth. Register early to save.

With no obvious blockbuster emerging from the fall season, TV programmers are hoping the new year will bring some inspiration.

Not surprisingly, the success of NBC’s My Name Is Earl has fueled anticipation that the long-predicted resurgence of TV comedy has arrived. Despite several seasons of ratings disappointments for single-camera comedies—most notably Fox’s Arrested Development— Earl’s success has “encouraged networks to take more shots” with the format, said Quan Phung, svp of creative affairs and comedy at 20th Century Fox TV.

But Phung added that programmers are taking next season’s comedy cues less from Earl than they are from ABC’s Lost.



AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Spring Special

Save 30% Off an ADWEEK Subscription Today!

View Your Options

Already a member? Sign in