TNT Renews 'Southland' For Third Season

Police drama gets another post-broadcast season on cable

By Alex Weprin -- Broadcasting & Cable, 4/26/2010 3:22:03 PM

Turner's TNT has renewed Southland for a third season. The police drama initially ran on NBC but was picked up by the cabler for its second season last year when NBC declined. TNT has ordered 10 episodes for season three, which will premiere in January 2011.

While the series has not delivered broadcast numbers in its six episode second season, it has performed solidly for TNT, delivering an average of 2.7 million viewers, including 1.4 million 18-49 and 25-54.

"Southland is a challenging, visceral show that engages viewers with its immersive style, provocative storylines and complex characters," said Michael Wright, executive vice president, head of programming, for TNT, TBS and Turner Classic Movies (TCM) announcing the pickup.  "These qualities have made Southland a favorite among critics and appointment viewing for an extremely loyal audience."