Fx Dvd On Tv

Most TV shows don't make it to DVD until they're either long-running hits, such as "Friends," or old classics, such as "M*A*S*H." But some studios with close TV network ties are trying a new angle-bringing the first season of hit shows to DVD before the second season begins.

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment tested the idea in September when it released the first full season of the critically acclaimed series "24" on DVD before season two started on the Fox Network. The studio will give the controversial FX Network series, 'The Shield," the same treatment when it releases the first 13 episodes on DVD Jan. 7 prior to the start of its sophomore season.

"People are always discovering new movies on DVD and it's the same way with TV shows," said Peter Staddon, senior vp of marketing for Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. "It's an effective way to drive an audience, particularly for a fast-moving show like "24" that was really hard to get into if you missed the early episodes."

The idea of using a DVD release to give a new show wider exposure has been used before. Warner Home Video helped expand the audience for "The Sopranos" beyond HBO subscribers when it released the first full season on DVD in 2000.

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COPYRIGHT 2002 Gale Group

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