NBC to release five fall shows on-line before they air
September 3, 2008
In an attempt to generate buzz for four returning and one new series, NBC will allow viewers to stream the episodes on-line before they air, according to the Silicon Valley Insider.
The shows that will stream include 30 Rock, Life, Lipstick Jungle, Chuck and Knight Rider. The episodes will go live on Hulu a week before they are scheduled for broadcast on NBC.
NBC hopes to generate some buzz for each of these series heading into the fall season. Three of the shows are second-year series that are attempting to relaunch themselves after long hiatuses due to the writer's strike. 30 Rock is entering its third season and while its won critical accalades and an Emmy last year, the show isn't starting until October and could use the buzz to remind viewers it's returning.
Knight Rider, the lone new show in the bunch, has name recognition from the popular 80's television series, but may need some word of mouth to overcome a lacklaster two-hour pilot movie that aired last spring.
They did some of this last year too. I remember "Bionic Woman" was available quite awhile ahead of it's premiere date. I like the concept and the chance to see a few things early, I just wonder if it really helps in the long run.