Books and the New Fall Season
Ahead of the upfronts later this month, the networks have already announced some cancellations, renewals, and pilot considerations. Included are a few shows that were inspired by books. On ABC, GCB which starred Leslie Bibb and Kristin Chenoweth will not see a second season. The show was based on Kim Gatlin's Good Christian Bitches which was re-released in paperback at the beginning of the year. However, ABC has picked up the pilot for 666 Park Avenue, which is based on Gabriella Pierce's series about a woman who discovers her magical powers right before marrying a man with a decidedly witchy mother. The show will change some of the premise of the books as the TV version will have newlyweds managing an apartment building that seems to have supernatural powers. Rachael Taylor (Charlie's Angels) and Dave Annable (Brothers & Sisters) are set to star along with Vanessa Williams (Desperate Housewives) and Robert Buckley (One Tree Hill).
The CW will renew Gossip Girl (inspired by the Cecily von Ziegesar series) and The Vampire Diaries (inspired by the L.J. Smith books), but has canceled The Secret Circle (also inspired by L.J. Smith's books). Deadline reports that this coming season of Gossip Girl will be the last.
Also canceled are two shows on NBC: The Firm (based on the John Grisham book) and Are You There, Chelsea? (based on Chelsea Handler's memoir).
As for the ABC Family shows inspired by two series from Sara Shepard, Pretty Little Liars will have its summer premiere on June 5 and The Lying Game should start season two in the winter.
