HBO renews 'Big Love'

Network orders fourth season of polygamy drama

By James Hibberd

Feb 4, 2009, 08:00 PM ET

HBO has given a fourth-season pickup to relationship drama "Big Love," from executive producers Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman.

"The stellar reviews and solid viewership this season confirm that this is a signature series for HBO," said Michael Lombardo, president of programming at HBO. "The series keeps getting better and better."

Although "Love" got off to a sluggish start in the ratings this season, each episode has added viewers. Sunday's outing drew 1.5 million viewers, up 29% from its January season premiere despite competition from the Super Bowl. Combined with encore episodes, the series averages about 5 million viewers.

Also, critics have been effusive about this season, which is always a factor for a subscription service like HBO that relies on generating a public perception of exclusive, high-quality content.

Production will begin later this year for a 2010 release. The show is executive produced by Playtone's Hanks and Goetzman and series creators Mark V. Olsen and Will Scheffer.

HBO renews 'Big Love'

Network orders fourth season of polygamy drama

By James Hibberd

Feb 4, 2009, 08:00 PM ET