• Variety, Monday, June 18, 2007 10:30 AM

John Landgraf, head of cable net FX, can talk about the relationship between Shakespeare, Updike and his channel's programming -- known for bucking many current trends. With its low-cost production model, FX will bring out eight original series this year, more than any net has ever tried on basic cable.

Ranking among the top 10 in basic cable prime-time among adults 18-49, FX goes with daring programming at a time when other channels have stuck with more broadcast-like fare. Among the standouts is "The Riches," which features a family trying to swindle its way to the American Dream, a show Landgraf calls a modern-day "Great Gatsby."

"Every other network takes risks within shows," says Nick Frenkel of 3 Arts Entertainment, which produces an FX sitcom. "FX takes risks with the whole network."

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