US nets embark on binge

US cable channels Showtime and TV Guide Network (TVGN) are tapping into the trend for binge-viewing by broadcasting back-to-back episodes from several high profile shows.

Showtime will broadcast the entire third run of Shameless, based on the long-running UK series and starring William H Macy, ahead of its fourth season, while the third season of Matt LeBlanc comedy series Episodes will also be aired.

The US net is also broadcasting the entire 12-part second season of Don Cheadle’s comedy House of Lies back-to-back, ahead of the show’s third season.

All three programmes are returning to the network with original episodes on January 12.

Elsewhere, TVGN recently inked a deal with fellow CBS Corporation-owned channel The CW to broadcast back-to-back episodes from a selection of its recently debuted dramas, including The Tomorrow People.

It also broadcast the first 13 episodes from the debut run of thriller series Hostages on Sunday ahead of the finale of its first season, which will air later today on CBS Television Network.

The thriller is exec produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and stars Toni Collette and Dylan McDermott