The CW is partnering with Media Rights Capital to program its Sunday primetime programming block next season.

The block, kicking off in the fall, will feature four new shows -- two comedies and two dramas -- from "top producers and creative talent." Further details will be announced soon, the companies said.

"This is a strategic move by the CW that will give viewers more original programming on Sunday nights than we have ever had," CW president Dawn Ostroff said. "As the leading independent producer of television programming, MRC will bring a slate of high-quality entertainment to our air on the most competitive night on television, while we will focus our resources and efforts on strengthening our Monday through Friday schedule."

Added CW COO John Maatta: "This kind of alliance is becoming common in our business, and it's a win for all involved: affiliates, advertisers and viewers. It will also allow our sales team more opportunity to capitalize on our new Friday night schedule with the departure of wrestling, as that is such a critical night for retailers and marketers with a weekend product push."

"Our blend of comedy and drama will be exciting, accessible and a perfect fit for the network and its affiliate constituency," MRS president of television Keith Samples said.

CW teams with MRC for primetime block

Two comedies, two dramas in the hopper

By Kimberly Nordyke

May 9, 2008, 05:46 PM