• TV Week, Tuesday, February 10, 2009 9:18 AM

MyNetworkTV is moving toward a new "programming service" business model, featuring syndicated material and the WWE. It is shifting away from its former strict network business model in order to "continue to be a valuable asset in the News Corp. portfolio," says MyNet president Greg Meidel.

The network will continue to air "WWE Friday Night Smackdown" on Fridays, plus a two-hour block of NBC's "Law & Order: Criminal Intent" on another night. A movie will air on a third night. The rest of the schedule will give stations 12 hours' worth of prime-time programming Monday through Saturday. Specific shows have not been disclosed yet.

Based on the economy, MyNet needed to create a new programming model that will reduce overhead costs, Meidel says. The company views the change as an opportunity for its affiliates to generate more revenue with branded, high-profile programming made up of "proven ratings performers."

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