More Chances for Reality Shows

This article from the LA Times (via TV Barn) is kind of interesting in that it dissects how reality shows are given a much bigger chance of survival than scripted shows are given. For instance, shows like Karen Sisco and Wonderfalls lasted only a few episodes, yet Big Brother is back for its 5th season. It's all true and the reasons are pretty obvious: reality shows are cheaper to produce; reality shows usually run for a lot fewer episodes. It is kind of a wonder that Big Brother is back for a fifth season - I say that to myself almost every time I watch it. The thing with that show is that it was smart enough to get started and build a bit of an audience before all the other networks started debuting new shows in the summer. I'm sure it wouldn't do as well in the fall or spring if it was on a network schedule.