MGM to Syndicate Two Comedy Central Hits

LOS ANGELES, January 4:
Comedy Central’s RENO 911! and Chappelle's
Show will be the first programs to
be syndicated by MGM under the studio’s new strategic relationship with New
Line.

Both series are available
for syndication for fall of 2007, and MGM will handle all station and national
ad sales. "As we continue to expand our syndication ad sales business,
it's exciting to bring the marketplace successful and high impact
programs," said Jim Packer, the president of worldwide television
distribution at MGM. Packer will oversee the syndication of the two shows
alongside John Bryan, the EVP of broadcast strategy at MGM.

Bryan added, "There
has been a steady decline of comedies produced for the broadcast networks in
recent years and now cable is beginning to fill that void; we are thrilled to
bring two of the most successful comedies in cable to broadcasters. With Chappelle's
Show reaching pop icon status and RENO
911!'s unique ability to attract
young male viewers, we're confident these shows will be a success for
broadcasters around the country."

Comedy Central recently picked
up RENO 911! for a fifth season
and a feature film, RENO 911!: Miami, is slated for a theatrical release next month. Chappelle's Show launched in January 2003 and aired for two
seasons.