NBC factors in more "Fear"
Thursday January 31 5:16 AM ETHOLLYWOOD (Variety) - NBC's rivals have 22 new reasons to ''Fear'' the network.
NBC has ordered up a full season of 22 hourlong episodes of ''Fear Factor,'' the surprise summer success that's now drawing big numbers on Monday nights. The Joe Rogan-hosted reality show has stirred up controversy -- and huge ratings -- for its often extreme contestant challenges.
NBC hasn't yet decided whether to air the new episodes this summer or save them for the 2002-03 season.
The network's entertainment president, Jeff Zucker, said ''Fear Factor'' has ``exceeded our expectations'' since its return to the NBC lineup earlier this month. Monday's episode drew 13.8 million viewers, winning its 8 p.m. time slot.
``It's done everything we could have hoped for and more,'' Zucker said. ``It's made Monday nights incredibly stronger, and it's only going to continue to grow.''
NBC will air a special Playboy-themed ``Fear'' this weekend opposite Fox's Super Bowl halftime show. An Oscar-night ``Fear'' special on March 24 is also a possibility.
Reuters/Variety