• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, September 11, 2008

ESPN is hoping that some faux "behind-the-scenes" peeks will keep "Pardon the Interruption" viewers from switching channels during commercial breaks. Between ads, the network has been randomly inserting clips that show the hosts bantering on-set--allegedly when they think the cameras are off.

While it's clear that both Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon know what's up, their humorous back-and-forth appears to be off-the-cuff. The cut-ins are running three times in each show (Tuesdays through Fridays)--and once every ad break.

ESPN is hoping that regular viewers will catch on to their frequency, find them endearing, and then stay tuned throughout the break as they look for them to pop up. The clips run approximately 10 seconds each.

"PTI" is a popular show that features the jocular Kornheiser and the more earnest Wilbon discussing the sports topics du jour. The "eavesdropping" clips mostly reflect their personalities.

In one, as Kornheiser has make-up applied to provide a sense of "behind-the-scenes" authenticity, he concludes: "I don't know much about sports. It's hard for me."

Wilbon fires back: "Better know something starting Monday night, big boy." (Kornheiser is a commentator on ESPN's "Monday Night Football.")

At another time, Wilbon asks Kornheiser if he's ever been on a cruise, and tells him he'd love it. Kornheiser shakes his head. "I'm afraid of boats," he says.

Word that ESPN had started the sleight of hand came on the blog AwfulAnnouncing.com. Judging by the comments there, the tactic has received mixed reviews.

The site's editor was critical, calling it "annoying" and "nonsense." Many readers, however, had a more positive take, and seemed more than willing to pardon the interruptions.

But their comments suggested that ESPN's intention to increase commercial tune-in may have some issues. Some said they would gladly stop to watch the cut-ins, but then would continue to zip through the ads with their DVRs.