• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, September 8, 2009

Lionsgate's reorientation of the TV Guide Network took another twist Tuesday with the pick-up up of a second off-net series for the channel.

Back-to-back episodes of former MTV sensation "Punk'd" -- which places unwitting celebrities in awkward situations that are captured on hidden camera -- will air daily on the network starting later this month.

The network has acquired exclusive basic cable rights as part of the deal.

The show has been on the network in what it calls a "test run" for several weeks, which will continue until the new deal kicks in. The channel said it has brought in younger viewers.

Financial details of the "Punk'd" acquisition were not released, although the network has rights to 100 half-hour episodes for a year. The show, which ran on MTV from 2003-07, was produced by and starred Ashton Kutcher.

This summer, TV Guide Network acquired rights to episodes of ABC's "Ugly Betty," signaling that it is looking to become a general entertainment network in some fashion, distancing itself further from its roots as essentially an on-air listings hub.

It will continue to produce its linchpin "red carpet" shows during major Hollywood awards.

Lionsgate purchased the network (and TVGuide.com) this year for what it has said was a bargain -- $240 million-plus -- then sold 49% to an investment firm. The company said 80% of revenues come from ad sales.