NBC demonstrated its faith in “Southland” by renewing the series for a second season Friday, a day after the show hit a ratings low.
According to THR, the renewal is for thirteen episodes.
“Southland” had been considered a lock for renewal by the second week of its run; in addition to its critical acclaim and broad-appeal creative potential, the show scored solid ratings in the timeslot long inhabited by the recently-ended “ER.”
Its ratings dropped considerably in weeks three and four, but NBC remains confident in the show’s potential.
NBC will formally announce its fall schedule on Monday. The network has not reached a final decision on “My Name is Earl,” “Parks and Recreation,” “Law & Order,” “Medium” and Chuck.” THR says that negotiations are underway to reach a deal for an “Earl” renewal, while “Medium” and “Law & Order” have good odds of a pickup. “Chuck” is the biggest longshot of the five, although it still reportedly has a fair chance of scoring a third season. “Parks and Recreation” is almost a sure thing.
