VH1 Adds 7 New Series To Lineup

Even as MTV Networks looks to bolster its online offerings, VH1 is adding another night of originals--the music net has seven new series on tap. The announcement comes as the cable upfront moves into play.

The network will now offer originals on Thursdays beginning later this summer and early next year, in addition to Sundays and Mondays. The crop of new shows is highlighted by more of VH1's "celebreality" genre, including "The Salt 'N' Pepa Show," about the rap group's attempt to reunite, and a quasi-spinoff of its "Breaking Bonaduce" series, along with more reality competition shows.

VH1 says its prime-time ratings so far this year are up 25% in the 18-to-49 demo. It reports that video streams on its broadband channel are up nearly 40%.

Philippe Dauman, CEO of MTVN parent Viacom, has said the company will continue to invest in original programming to fuel consumption on multiple platforms, particularly to inspire community-based Web sites. "This extensive list of new original projects will also appeal to our viewers on any platform they wish to enjoy them ... on television, on our broadband channel VSPOT, VH1.com or VH1 Mobile," said Tom Calderone, executive vice president, general manager of VH1.

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The 10-episode "Salt 'N' Pepa Show" follows the rap duo that broke up in 2002 as they deal with various issues on the road to rapprochement. "Danny Bonaduce's Child Star" (working title) features the former child star training parents of a current child star to be supportive and thoughtful.

Also on the upcoming lineup: "America's Most Smartest Model," which seeks to discover whether top models (men and women) can possess beauty and brains. Ben Stein is the co-host for the reality competition series. The show "Click" searches for a would-be world-class fashion photographer. There is also the eight-episode "Free Radio," which offers a comedic behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of an L.A. radio station.

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