TVSquad

MyNetworkTV is changing its game plan by dropping some of its original content and airing syndicated programming including movies. They call it a "hybrid model".

In effect, MyNetworkTV is doing what other cable networks and/or independent stations have been doing for years. That is, paying the fees for syndication rights and having little to no original programming. Even their ratings superstar, WWE Friday Night Smackdown!, isn't owned by the network.

Obviously, this is due to the economic downturn as it is much cheaper to buy someone else's programming than create your own. Still, if this persists nobody will take MyNetworkTV seriously as a network. You need original programming to become a name brand in that business. Ask AMC.

With this model, MyNetworkTV better not lose its deal with World Wrestling Entertainment. If it did, the network would have nothing really unique to offer and would possibly become all Law & Order: Criminal Intent, all the time.

Never fear all you wrestlemaniacs. While WWE has abandoned renegotiations with The CW to bring Smackdown back to the network, it has announced that it is already in negotiations with other networks to carry the long-running Friday night staple. Smackdown has delivered solid ratings for The CW (and UPN before it) since 1999, but has at times been an awkward fit for the demographics and perception the network has wanted to put out there.

• At 8, PBS has a new NOW, then a new Washington Week.
• The CW has a new Smackdown! at 8.
• Food Network has a new Emeril Live at 8.
• Nickelodeon has the final two episodes of Ned's Declassified at 8.
• Also at 8: Sci-Fi has a new Stargate SG-1, followed by new episodes of Stargate Atlantis and Painkiller Jane.
• At 9, Standoff returns to FOX with new episodes.
• ABC has a new National Bingo Night at 9, then a new 20/20.
• Hallmark has the new movie Love's Unending Legacy at 9.
• At 10, A&E has a new Intervention.
• G4 has a new G4's Free Stuff at 10, then a new Ninja Warrior.
• TCM has Butterfield 8 (with Elizabeth Taylor) at 10.

Check your local TV listings for more.