ABC renews 'Shark Tank,' adds Jeff Foxworthy

"Shark Tank" fans rejoice: ABC is renewing business-reality cult-favorite for a second season, plus adding a familiar comedian to the show's judging panel.

Jeff Foxworthy is joining the show as a Shark for three episodes. ABC is ordering eight hours total from executive producer Mark Burnett and Sony Pictures TV.

Previously, I argued strongly for a pickup of this addictive UK format, which performed somewhat decently in a series of tough time periods. 

The five Sharks from the first season are all back: Real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran, infomercial pioneer Kevin Harrington, technology expert Robert Herjavec, fashion owner Daymond John and financial expert Kevin O’Leary.

Mixing in Foxworthy is a rather unusual choice. Though adding a celebrity is a sharp idea for boosting ratings, the comedian is not a name that leaps to mind when most think about business savvy. ABC points out Foxworthy has his own line of beef jerky and BBQ sauces, in addition to having expanded his comedy career to albums, books and forays into TV (including hosting Burnett's game show "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader").

"Shark Tank" will resume production this fall and will air sometime in 2011.