TNN: The National Network is pushing to be an alternative to general-entertainment networks. That means providing 'a young demo with programming they won't get anywhere else,' executive vice president
and general manager Diane Robina said at an upfront presentation Tuesday. World Wrestling Federation Entertainment Inc. action and Star Trek already drive the channel, but Robina said new acquired and
original fare are the next step. TNN's biggest arrival will be off-nets of CBS hit CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, debuting in September. CSI will air Monday nights, after wrestling. An adult
animation block featuring Gary the Rat, starring the voice talents of Kelsey Grammer, will debut in early 2003. The classic Ren & Stimpy and Stripperella, starring Pamela Anderson as a
stripper/superhero, will also run in the block, tentatively slated for Tuesday nights. Other new series include Oblivious, a Candid Camera-style game show, and Slamball, a combination of basketball
and trampolines. TNN also acquired rights to 15 James Bond films.
(- Broadcasting & Cable)
