• Multichannel News, Thursday, April 26, 2007 12:51 PM

In yet another move into original programming, DirecTV has cut a deal to keep the soap opera "Passions" alive after NBC canceled it. Under the pact, NBC Universal Television Studio will produce new episodes of the show that will air Monday-Thursday on DirecTV's own channel, The 101.

Other shows on the same channel include "Project MyWorld" and "The Fizz." "Passions" currently averages more than 2 million viewers and has a loyal fan base. It will end its network run on Sept. 7, and pop up on DirecTV 10 days later.

"Passions" fans no longer need to "mourn the demise of their beloved program as it has found new life..." says DirecTV executive vice president of entertainment Eric Shanks. "We care about this show, and are extremely proud to give it an exclusive home here at DirecTV."

Read the whole story at Multichannel News »