TV Networks and Storytelling

CBS has ordered pilots of two potential shows for the fall: a drama about open marriage and a musical about a casino, written by Hugh Jackman.

What?

"We are talking about throwing out the rule book and trying new kinds of storytelling," said CBS' Entertainment President Nina Tassler.

Hmmm. NPH is intrigued, particularly with the part about "new kinds of storytelling." For a television network such a move can only be motivated by market competition and the need to attract more viewers and, thus, more advertising dollars. In fact, Tassler also said that the move is about getting people talking about her network. It's about the need for buzz appeal, for something that is so novel that it takes on a life of its own and becomes a sort of virus.

Three letters come to mind here: XFL.