A night of original animated features and uncut James Bond movies highlight
TNN: The National Network's 2002-03 programming schedule.
In an effort to better attract adults 18 through 49, its primary target, the
network will launch as many as four new adult-targeted cartoons in 2003 --
possibly scheduled within a Tuesday or Sunday primetime block -- bolstered by
Gary the Rat, a series from actor Kelsey Grammer (Frasier).
The 30-minute series features an unscrupulous New York attorney whose immoral
deeds lead to his transformation into a rat, TNN general manager Diane Robina
announced at a pre-upfront press breakfast Tuesday.
Other animated series include Joe Duffy, from veteran writer/producer
Ed Weinberger (The Cosby Show), about a grouchy limo driver;
Stripperella, about a female stripper who also fights crime, featuring
Pamela Anderson; and The Immigrants, focusing on two immigrants seeking
the American dream in Hollywood.
In addition, the network will air 64 episodes of off-Nickelodeon cartoon
Ren & Stimpy beginning in the first quarter of 2003, she said.
Other new original series include Oblivious, a game show where
contestants can win cash prizes without realizing that they're playing, and
Slamball, a basketball/X Games hybrid sport where players bounce off
trampolines to score baskets.
TNN will also feature 15 unedited James Bond films as part of a two-year
licensing deal between CBS, United Paramount Network, TNN and MGM Worldwide
Television Distribution.
Most of the early James Bond theatricals were rated 'PG,' so not much editing
would have been required.
The network also announced that it would air recently acquired series CSI:
Crime Scene Investigation Monday nights beginning this fall, along with its
popular World Wrestling Federation Entertainment Inc. series.
And TNN renewed five of its current original series: TNN's Robot Wars,
TNN's Conspiracy Zone, TNN's Ultimate Revenge, TNN's Small
Shots and TNN's Fame for 15.
