WGA STRIKE UPDATE: Showtime's Dexter Heading to CBS Feb. 17

Show Will Be Heavily Edited for Broadcast Network's Audience

By Alex Weprin -- Broadcasting & Cable, 1/7/2008 10:58:00 PM

Dexter, one of Showtime’s most popular shows, will make its debut on CBS Feb. 17.

Showtime and CBS are sister networks under parent company Viacom. The move marks the first time that the full season of a cable program will make the jump to network television. CBS will air the complete first season of the series -- heavily edited for content -- on consecutive Sundays.

Broadcast networks are looking for creative ways to program in the face of a protracted writers' strike.

"We're excited to work with our corporate cousins at Showtime on this unique programming opportunity," said Nina Tassler, president of CBS Entertainment, in a statement. "Dexter is a high-quality, compelling series that will be new and original programming for most CBS viewers. It's also a great match with our existing lineup, affording us the opportunity to promote this critically decorated series in CBS' top-rated crime dramas."

Dexter recently completed its second season on Showtime. The show follows a Miami forensics expert who also happens to be a serial killer, albeit one who only kills murderers who are not brought to justice.

NBC recently announced that Psych, one of the most popular shows on NBC Universal-owned USA Network, will make the jump to the parent network, as well.

For full coverage of the strike, click here.