Create A Network Part 5

[factsoflife]

Part five of our continuing game about creating a network starts here!

[factsoflife]

Originally Posted by factsoflife
Gen-TV's Ratings Information:
---Network at war with YTN; sends chilling response
----FCC responds to complaint, National Ratings Board issues statement

A Hollywood Insider Report

In yet another heated exchange with rival networks, primarily YTN, Gen-TV Network sent out another bloodthirsty response in regards to recent accusations about ratings tampering. Here is the explosive response directly from Cain Wentworth, who is the Chairperson for Gen-TV's Board of Directors "In response to the baseless claims by YTN that they are the #1 rated network on Sunday nights I must present a few facts that are indisputable. Fact #1: "Threesome" and "Sisterly Love" routinely and consistently outrank "Life Lessons" in every conceivable measure. Per Nielsen Reports dated December 2016-March 2017, "Threesome" averages 2.7 in demos while "Sisterly Love" averages 3.9. This is a far cry from the 1.7 quoted by YTN for "Life Lessons." I certainly do not understand how YTN can claim they are the victor for a series that averages 1.7 against series in the 2.7-3.9 range. Fact #2: According to Nielsen Ratings, Gen-TV Networks "Audience Reach" is at 94%, meaning that Gen-TV Network is carried in approximately 94% of homes with access to cable television." "Fact #3: Gen-TV politely and respectfully asked Eva Vargas to retract her statements, or at least correct them. We sent respectful emails, voice messages, text messages and even sent a certified letter through the United States Postal Service. All of these went unanswered. The only response we received was a vicious quote attacking us in the Hollywood trade papers."

"Fact #4: When Ms. Vargas finally responded to Gen-TV, days after attacking us in the press it was in the form of a profanity laden, insensitive and disgusting tirade against Ross Chin, our Vice President." "The words used by Ms. Vargas likely said in a moment of anger or frustration are simply unacceptable and will not be tolerated." "She is very lucky that Ross Chin is not a litigious man and has convinced our legal department not to file a suit against her for harassment; intentional infliction of emotional distress and for defamation of character." "Ross has remained completely calm throughout all of this and has advocated for trying to find a way to make peace with Ms. Vargas." "And lastly, the main issue is that YTN is causing a huge commotion over what is essentially a misunderstanding or simply a mistake. Mistakes happen, we all make them and it is simply a matter of professionalism that one should apologize for their mistakes. Instead Ms. Vargas has dug her feet into the ground and decided to make a mountain out of a molehill. She has essentially started a war with Gen-TV; a network that has had a positive working relationship with them in the past."


Now for another development, in response to Gen-TV's filing an official complaint against YTN, there has been some movement forward in that case, today the FCC issued this oblique statement "We have received Gen-TV's complaint against network YTN and are taking this issue very seriously." "We will conduct an internal review and will issue an appropriate response if we deem it necessary." "We have attempted to reach Eva Vargas, President of YTN for the last 24 hours and have received ZERO response from her. Calls to her office were not returned and on two occasions a receptionist hung up on us." "An attempt to reach her by email was sent back as undeliverable." "We take this sort of obstruction extremely seriously and will take appropriate action if it is deemed necessary."

Meanwhile, the National Ratings Board, the only US Government Sponsored Agency regulating TV Ratings and its measurement issued this definitive statement today "We are absolutely disheartened by the allegations against YTN Network and are working diligently to get to the bottom of this serious matter." "The National Ratings Board has the legal right to issue fines of upwards of 650,000 dollars per year, and take other punitive actions against YTN including in extreme cases suspension of their broadcasting license." "We have yet to make any determinations in this case but we must be clear that at this juncture, YTN is NOT in the clear and is still under serious investigations by us." "Eva Vargas should consider responding to our requests for an interview as it is important we speak to her and get her side of the story on these serious allegations." "As of now she has not returned our calls."

A Hollywood Insider Report
---Is YTN in serious trouble?
Former FCC Investigator Spills All


When Gen-TV Network announced they had filed charges against YTN with the FCC it sent shockwaves through the TV industry. It is exceptionally rare for a TV network to file complaint against one of their rivals; typically FCC charges come from viewers at home or from law firms representing clients. Hollywood Insider wanted to know how serious these charges are and what kind of trouble YTN might be in, we spoke to a former FCC investigator who is now retired and got his views on this issue. He would only speak on the condition of anonymity, out of fears that he could get in trouble with the FCC for revealing classified information about their process for investigating.

Here is the edited version of his comments:

"I worked for the FCC as an investigator for over 22 years and have investigated cases ranging for obscenity charges to improper use of satellite signals." "Never in my 22 years did I ever have an investigation regarding TV Ratings." "It is exceptionally rare; almost unheard of for ratings to be an issue in the FCC jurisdiction." "That said, we have investigated two previous cases related to ratings. The first was in 1984 when MTV was investigated for an accusation that they were being discriminated against by the Nielsen Ratings company because they are a cable network." "That case was settled privately for an undisclosed sum." "The second case, and most recent was in 2002 when The WB Network and The UPN Network asked the FCC to investigate the truthfulness of their reported ratings from third-party ratings companies." "That case was dismissed without an investigation."

"This case is different in that the facts are seemingly easy to find as Nielsen and other ratings companies can use their archived ratings reports to find the true numbers of each show in question." "It should be a very easy case to solve." "The main issue is if YTN will be held liable for any wrong doing and face any consequences." "That is an issue that is unpredictable as this could come down to the whim of the investigator." "There is no clear precedent for a case like this and no official policy on this subject as reporting ratings has never been an issue before." "the most serious consequence YTN could face is a suspension of their broadcasting license. This is extremely unlikely and would only be used as a last resort in a case of a company that has repeatedly violated FCC guidelines." "YTN doesn't appear to fall within those parameters and is unlikely to lose their right to broadcast." "The more likely outcome is that YTN faces some financial fines, must pay Gen-TV's legal fees and could be required to have their ratings verified by a third-party company." "However that also seems unlikely to happen in this case, where much of the allegations stem from press releases and not official ratings issues." "The investigator could also decide this issue isn't serious enough to warrant a harsh punishment and could simply require YTN officials to apologize for their mistake and correct it in writing."

"Bottom line: YTN is unlikely to face any serious punishment, but it is almost a certainty that they will face some minor consequence."

Eva Vargas to face charges
---FCC completes investigation

A Hollywood Now Report


The Federal Communications Commission released their final report on an investigation into YTN Network following a complaint against them for fraudulently reporting ratings information. The complaint was filed by rival network Gen-TV after they took issue with information in a press release issued by YTN about ratings for its series Life Lessons. The report is over 600 pages long and contains a number of legal findings; but here is the bottom line for our Hollywood Now readers:

---YTN network (and its parent company YTN Studios) will not lose its broadcasting licence as the FCC finds "YTN Studios is not guilty of any obscene or gross negligence; and did not knowingly violate any federal or state laws."

----YTN Network will avoid any major financial consequence, however the FCC did find that "YTN Network did violate a minor law in regards to providing accurate ratings information." As such, "YTN is found guilty of a misdemeanor and will be required to pay a $2,000 fine to the FCC by March 10, 2018." This stems from the FCC finding "conclusive and non-disputable evidence that YTN did provide inaccurate ratings information regarding the ratings for Life Lessons, and that Gen-TV's series Threesome and Sisterly Love easily outranked that program both historically and currently."

---YTN Network will be required to issue an apology to Gen-TV Studios and provide a crystal clear clarification that indeed, Life Lessons is in third place in its timeslot and does not in any way out-rate Threesome or Sisterly Love in the ratings.

Other interesting information in the FCC report is that basically YTN network is getting off scot-free with a proverbial "slap on the wrist", a decision that stems from "YTN's otherwise stellar and sterling reputation as an honest and truthful company." And the finding that "This is a simple matter of poor judgement on Eva Vargas's part and not a reflection of YTN as a whole." "This is a one-off error in judgement and not a continuing issue."

That said; while YTN Studios and Network will get away without any trouble, President Eva Vargas is not so lucky as the FCC finding are as follows:

"As President of YTN, Eva Vargas is responsible for providing truthful and accurate information in press releases." "Even though YTN did not compile the ratings information and used a third-party source (Nielsen Ratings Company), it was Eva Vargas's responsibility to verify the accuracy of said ratings prior to publishing a press release and promoting it as accurate."

"We, the FCC find Eva Vargas guilty of falsely reporting ratings information, of dishonest business communications and of obstructing an FCC Investigation by refusing to cooperate." "Her official charges are as follows:

12 misdemeanor counts-- Falsely Reporting Ratings Information
1 misdemeanor count--- Dishonest Business Communication
5 felony counts--- obstructing an FCC Investigation/refusal to cooperate

and as such, "Eva Vargas will be sanctioned by the FCC to a fine of $250,000 and will be suspended from working for any venue that is under the jurisdiction of the FCC for a term of fourteen months." "As such, she will be ineligible to continue in her role as President of YTN Network until March 14, 2018." "As such, YTN Network will be required to suspend her and replace her in all official and unofficial capacities until that date when her suspension is lifted." "She will not be permitted to consult on any business or creative decisions at YTN Network or any of its subsidiary or other businesses for the length of her 14-month suspension."

Lastly, in a separate finding, the National Ratings Board has also issued a report on this matter and has found as follows:

"YTN Network is not guilty of falsely reporting TV Ratings for Life Lessons."

However, "YTN Network is guilty of dishonestly representing TV Ratings and for making inaccurate claims that Life Lessons was more highly rated than Gen-TV's programs Threesome and Sisterly Love."

"YTN will face the following consequences; a fine of 300,000 dollars, and will be required to publish an apology on their official website."

Lastly, as the ringleader of this mess, "Eva Vargas will lose her membership in the National Ratings Board for a term of 14-months; and will be required to pay a fine of 210,000 dollars." "Eva Vargas will be suspended from working in the TV industry for 14-months; which is the same time frame given in a suspension issued by the FCC."

[yankeesrj12]

YTN PRESS RELEASE:
YTN RENEWS FOUR MORE SERIES FOR NEXT SEASON (UPDATED)
YTN is re-releasing a press release from two weeks ago, with correct information provided. This is the same press release from two weeks ago, although changes have been made and are marked in bold italics.

YTN has renewed four additional series for the 2017-2018 television season, including freshman comedy series Life Lessons.

The new Sunday night comedy is averaging over 8 million viewers and 1.7 A18-49, easily winning its 930 timeslot against nearly every network (AMC's The Walking Dead is the lone exception). In total viewers, Life Lessons is averaging 8.01 million viewers - the best for any series in the timeslot, and is now the number one new comedy in its timeslot. In fact, Life Lessons is averaging more viewers than GEN-TV comedy Sisterly Love (which also airs Sundays at 930) by over one million viewers: 8.01 million vs. 6.86 million. Since the start of the new year, each comedy has faced off three times, with Life Lessons defeating Sisterly Love in each case. GEN-TV has since removed Sisterly Love from its timeslot. In two special Monday night airings, Life Lessons averaged nearly 11 million viewers and 2.6 A18-49 - series highs for the comedy. Life Lessons walked away with a win during last weeks Harper Everett Awards and has racked up numerous accolades from various critics.

The network also renewed hit family comedy The Hughes Family for a fifth season. Averaging 9.5 million viewers and 2.6 A18-49, The Hughes Family continues to win its timeslot against network competition.

Hit sophomore drama CIA Files will return for a third season in the fall. Through 17 episodes, the series is averaging 13.3 million viewers and 3.28 A18-49, down only slightly from its freshman season average. The hit drama inherited the Wednesday 9 o'clock hour this season, after airing behind Call Girls in season one.

Finally, long-running TAKEN: Phoenix joins mothership TAKEN in returning next season. During its upcoming eighth season, TAKEN: Phoenix will celebrate its 200th episode, only the second network drama to accomplish such a feat (TAKEN will air episode 200 later this month). On Thursday nights, the procedural is averaging 10 million viewers and 1.65 A18-49, down only 3% year-to-year.

Eva Vargas, President of YTN, says, "All four series celebrate the core message of YTN, which is to bring viewers the programming they want to see. Each exemplifies the message that we continue to care about our viewers. We are excited to see all of these series play out for years to come."

[yankeesrj12]

THE HOLLYWOOD INSIDER

EVA VARGAS BLASTS FCC AND GEN-TV
Eva Vargas will not be going out quietly. One day after learning of her suspension for a one year period, the President of YTN and YTN Studios is filing an appeal with the FCC and taking more shots at GEN-TV.

During the appeals process with the FCC, Ms. Vargas is allowed to stay in her position as network and studio president. That is important for YTN, as the network is currently in the midst of filming pilots and forming a schedule for the upcoming season.

A decision on the appeal is expected to be announced by the end of March.

In the meantime, Ms. Vargas is not holding back her frustration at GEN-TV. She issued a press statement moments ago:

Earlier today, my press team sent out a new press release to all reporters, with updated information in regard to Life Lessons.

Over the last two weeks, employees at YTN, specifically the press team and myself, along with the network as a whole, have been blasted by the media and GEN-TV for providing false information in the press release in question. My team has proven our facts to be correct time and time again, but the attacks continue. Yesterday, those attacks went to the FCC. Simply put, this is an agenda by GEN-TV to try and tarnish YTN and its successful lineup, as GEN-TV continues to struggle amidst numerous scheduling changes.

The initial press release stated Life Lessons 'easily won' its timeslot, which is fact but has been disputed for two weeks. In total viewers, Life Lessons is watched by more than one million more viewers, on average, than GEN-TV's Sisterly Love in the same timeslot. Life Lessons is also averaging more viewers than broadcast network competition in the half hour, with its closet competitor (Madam Secretary on CBS) trailing closely behind. GEN-TV began these attacks in an effort to distract reporters from the fact their Sunday night lineup is in shambles. Recently, GEN-TV removed Sisterly Love from its Sunday 930 timeslot - again, ignored by most reporters to fabricate a story against YTN.

YTN will not pay any fines to the FCC. I will not be stepping down from my position as President of YTN and YTN Studios. The FCC will do the right thing in the end, and award my appeal.

[yankeesrj12]

Sunday, March 12th Ratings - YTN
At 8pm, a new episode of Mother & Daughter ticked up to 7.98 million viewers and 1.6/5 among adults 18-49, up a tenth from last weeks series low. Unrounded number: 1.642

At 830pm, a new episode of Suburbia eased to 7.17 million viewers and 1.5/5 among adults 18-49, down a tenth from last week. Unrounded: 1.486

At 9pm, a new episode of Full Time Mom strengthened to 9.36 million viewers and 2.0/6 among adults 18-49, up a tenth from last week for its best rating since October. Unrounded: 1.975

At 930pm, a new episode of Life Lessons bopped up to 7.85 million viewers and 1.6/5 among adults 18-49, up two tenths from last weeks series low for its best rating since January. Unrounded: 1.634

At 10pm, a new episode of Virus held at 7.36 million viewers and 3.1/7 among adults 18-49, even with last week. Half hour: 3.102/3.134



Monday, March 13th Ratings - YTN
At 8pm, the third season premiere of Revolution slid to 6.35 million viewers and 1.5/6 among adults 18-49, down two tenths from last weeks season premiere. Half hour: 1.496/1.603

At 9pm, a new episode of Call Girls fell to 13.48 million viewers and 5.6/11 among adults 18-49, down two tenths from last week. Half hour: 5.636/5.619

At 10pm, a new episode of The High Times of Denver dropped to 4.21 million viewers and 2.0/7 among adults 18-49, down four tenths from last weeks fourth season premiere. Retention from its lead in was 37% among total viewers and 36% in the demo. More below. Unrounded: 2.033

At 1030pm, a new episode of The High Times of Denver garnered 3.67 million viewers and 1.7/6 among adults 18-49. Unrounded: 1.706



Tuesday, March 14th Ratings - YTN
At 8pm, a new episode of Looking for Love inched up to 7.98 million viewers and 2.3/7 among adults 18-49, up a tenth from last week. Half hour: 2.314/2.301

At 9pm, a new episode of TAKEN: Global slid to 7.04 million viewers and 1.1/4 among adults 18-49, down a tenth from last week to a new series low. Half hour: 1.104/1.145

At 10pm, a new episode of TAKEN slumped to 10.71 million viewers and 1.9/7 among adults 18-49, down two tenths from last week. Half hour numbers: 1.845/1.856

[factsoflife]

Originally Posted by yankeesrj12

THE HOLLYWOOD INSIDER

EVA VARGAS BLASTS FCC AND GEN-TV
Eva Vargas will not be going out quietly. One day after learning of her suspension for a one year period, the President of YTN and YTN Studios is filing an appeal with the FCC and taking more shots at GEN-TV.

During the appeals process with the FCC, Ms. Vargas is allowed to stay in her position as network and studio president. That is important for YTN, as the network is currently in the midst of filming pilots and forming a schedule for the upcoming season.

A decision on the appeal is expected to be announced by the end of March.

In the meantime, Ms. Vargas is not holding back her frustration at GEN-TV. She issued a press statement moments ago:

A Hollywood Now Report:
Aftermath of FCC Ruling
---Shake-ups and Showdowns at Gen-TV & YTN

In the direct aftermath of an explosive ruling by the FCC and National Ratings Board that left Eva Vargas suspended and YTN forced to pay fines, that network has released an explosive statement in which Vargas claims she will not pay any fines or leave her post to fulfill her suspension. In this explosive and potentially defamatory statement, Vargas accuses Gen-TV of having an ulterior motive and of "having a Sunday night line-up that is in shambles." This statement has sent shockwaves through the TV industry, but most especially at Gen-TV, where Vice President Ross Chin released this incredible response on his Gen-TV blog:

"To cast blame at Gen-TV for a mistake made by Eva Vargas only shows the kind of morality at play from the executives at YTN." "I believe that this is an example of a woman with an inferiority complex trying to overcompensate for her own insecurities and the fact that she knows deep down that she messed up and simply cannot accept her own shortcomings." "She says that our Sunday night line-up is in shambles? That is non-sense, both Threesome and Sisterly Love remain stable performers for us; consistently out-perform every other series on Sunday nights; including Life Lessons and have become important utility players for our network. They are able to fill holes in the schedule when needed and have always maintained a large and devoted audience that follows them."

"As for her claims that she will not pay the FCC fines or serve the term of her suspension? I cannot comment on that as that is an issue for the FCC and lawyers to deal with." "Although, frankly it sounds like Ms. Vargas needs to learn a thing or two about taking responsobility for her actions." "What was a minor mistake has been blown out of proportion because she refuses to admit her mistake."

Immediately following the publication of this blog post, which instantly garnered wide attention from the press and was picked up by Huffington Post and the L.A. Times, Ross Chin was placed on a temporary suspension for "failing to comply with a long-standing Gen-TV policy against making negative comments about a colleague, and for engaging in language that is meant to harass, embarrass or shame another individual." The suspension is for three days and is unpaid. Suzanne Stefan-Clarke, the President of Gen-TV will fill his shoes for those three days.

As a direct result of this controversy, Gen-TV made another huge move today, renewing previously "on the bubble" comedy "Sisterly Love" for next season; ordering a full 22 episode season. Stefan-Clarke said when announcing this "Sisterly Love has remained a valuable property for our network and will remain so for another season." "If we learned anything from this debacle it is that we need to recognize the importance of series that perform well, and Sisterly Love is a long-stand hit for Gen-TV." (Threesome was previously renewed for an additional two seasons).

On the YTN side, Hollywood Now can report that things remain tense and filled with disagreement as Eva Vargas continues to get blamed for her role in this mess. A source directly related to YTN tells us "higher ups at the network are fully planning to throw Eva under the bus, especially if she fails to comply with the FCC ruling." "Eva's tenure at YTN has been in jeopardy for sometime now, but this may be the last straw." "If she refuses to pay the fines ordered or comply with her suspension, she may be facing a permanent dismissal from YTN." And getting fired from YTN can prove to be a fatal blow to one's career; just ask Taylor Song, a YTN Executive fired in 2011, who has spent the years since in and out of prison on a series of embezzlement scams after being unable to land work in the TV industry. Ms. Song spoke to Hollywood Now and said "After getting fired from YTN I was stunned to learn that my former bosses badmouthed me across the entire industry and blacklisted me from working at all." "I couldn't even get a job as a cafeteria worker in a studio cafeteria."

When officially contacted for comment about this article a representative for YTN declined to comment.

[factsoflife]

Breaking News:
FCC grants partial appeal
---Vargas suspension, fines reduced

In a shocking turn of events today, the FCC has issued a statement in which they have had a stunning change of heart and have granted a partial appeal for Eva Vargas and YTN Network. The statement reads as follows "After carefully reviewing the fines and suspension levied against Ms. Vargas, we are willing to admit that we may have been a bit hasty in our decision." "While Ms. Vargas and YTN did commit minor offenses, likely out of sheer error and not ill-intention it is apparent that no criminal intent was present by either Ms. Vargas or YTN Studios." "As such we have decided to grant Ms. Eva Vargas and YTN Studios a partial appeal." "While we will not lift her suspension, we have decided to reduce her suspension from 14-months to 4-weeks." "We have also decided to lift the clause preventing her from consulting on YTN business during pilot seasons." "We realize that preventing the President of a network from being present during pilot season presents an unfair burden on the company." "As for the fines, we have opted to reduce them to a total of $300 dollars." "We feel this is a fair compromise and offer this in good faith towards Ms. Vargas and YTN Studios."

[factsoflife]

Gen-TV News:
Leeza Gibbons moves to Gen-TV
Hollywood Now

Gen-TV Daytime is about to add one very big name to its already robust line-up of hosts. Hollywood Now has confirmed with Gen-TV Studios that Leeza Gibbons will be moving from YTN to Gen-TV Network later this year.

A representative for Gen-TV Network confirmed that Leeza Gibbons has signed a contract with Gen-TV Studios, but declined to comment on a specific capacity in which she'll be utilized. Speculation is now running wild about what role Leeza will serve at Gen-TV. The most popular theory is that she'll be named host of "A.M. Live" which recently lost its two co-hosts Leah Remini and Holly Robinson Peete.

Gibbons is best known for her decades long stint as a correspondent for "Entertainment Tonight" (1983-1995) and for hosting the Emmy-Nominated daytime talk show "Leeza" which ran on NBC from 1993-2000. Most recently in 2013, she won a Daytime Emmy for hosting the retirement themed talk show "My Generation" and just this month she won a Harper Everett Award for "Rise & Shine with Jerry & Leeza"; the YTN talk show that was recently cancelled. That show won the Harper Everett Award for "Best Talk, News or Reality Series" known as the "Talkie Award."

Gen-TV Announces Leeza News
---Gibbons to co-host new talk show

Since it was announced back in February that Leeza Gibbons would jump from YTN's "Rise & Shine" to Gen-TV Network; rumors have been running rampant about what role Gibbons would play at Gen-TV. Until now, the network has been quiet about this and now we have official confirmation.

Despite reports to the contrary, she will NOT be the new host of "A.M. Live", the series which is currently still looking for new co-hosts. Instead, the network confirms that Gibbons is going to be one of the co-hosts of a new talk show sponsored by the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons); the leading American association dedicated to issues important to retired persons or people over the age of 60. However, sources tell us this new talk show will mainly target future AARP members, between the ages of 40 and 55.

The pilot is being produced not for Gen-TV Network, but instead for Stream-Me, the Gen-TV funded streaming site that is already home to original series "Law of Death", "Younger Sisters" and "Promise of Tomorrow" which was recently rebooted in the form of 20-minute segments. Later this year former Gen-TV Network series "Cooking For Dummies", "Law & Order: New York City" and "Law & Order: Hate Crimes" will move over to Stream-Me as well.

[yankeesrj12]

THE HOLLYWOOD INSIDER

YTN CORP. PRESIDENT FURIOUS AT NETWORK PRESIDENT VARGAS
The ongoing controversy surrounding YTN President Eva Vargas is now making its way up the chain of command: all the way to the President of YTN Corporation.

Grayson Rogers, the rarely seen or heard from executive, is said to be 'fuming' at the situation and 'raging mad' at Eva Vargas. The last time Rogers made any sort of press announcement, was nearly three years ago when he fired network Vice President Nick Greenway for making inappropriate comments.

One insider at the network said Vargas may be on the chopping block, "You know, this is really serious for Eva, and I do not think she quite understands the extent of how far this has gone. Grayson is furious at the negative attention toward YTN, especially so close to pilot season. She messed up and refuses to admit to that, which is concerning."

Ms. Vargas is in the midst of a three-year contract extension, which was singed in June 2015. She initially became president of the network in October 2011, following the death of Olivia Pavlin. Under the terms, through next June, Eva will earn $2.2 per year, plus contract incentives. There are stipulations within the contract that allow YTN Corporation to remove her from the position, but there is no word on what would allow YTN to fire her.

UPDATE: Eva Vargas has been indefinitely suspended by YTN Corporation President Grayson Rogers. Here is the statement:

Due to an ongoing conflict of interest with YTN, network president Eva Vargas has been indefinitely suspended from her position. YTN is in the process of conducting its own internal investigation, with the help of outside resources. Once the investigation is complete, the length of Ms. Vargas' suspension will be reviewed by both the FCC and YTN Corporation. In the meantime, Vice President of YTN, Paul Johnson, will handle the day-to-day duties of network president, effective immediately. Ms. Vargas will remain on as an adviser during pilot season.

Paul Johnson was promoted to VP in July 2014, following the dismissal of Greenway. He previously served as President of Network Scheduling.

[factsoflife]

A Hollywood Now Report
---Gen-TV's Vice President Issues Apology

Upon returning to work on Friday morning, the first thing Gen-TV Vice President Ross Chin plans to do is issue an apology to Eva Vargas, the President of YTN Network (who incidentally is apparently on a suspension right now). Chin, who is returning from a two day suspension of his own has learned a valuable lesson about how to communicate with rival networks and fellow executives. A lesson that Chin seems to have taken to heart. When we spoke with him on Thursday afternoon Chin said "I can completely own up to my part in this entire debacle. I made some comments out of anger and instead of listening to the other side I have participated in creating a mess." "I acknowledge that things could have been handled better and that I should have been more diplomatic in speaking about and to Ms. Vargas." "My blog post was uncalled for and not fair to Eva Vargas, to YTN Corp or to my colleagues at Gen-TV; who have graciously given me a chance to make amends."

Chin says the first thing he'll do on Friday morning is call Eva Vargas personally and attempt to sort this thing out, or at least to reclaim the once-friendly working relationship Gen-TV has enjoyed with YTN in the past.

[factsoflife]

Stefan-Clarke Adopts!
-Gen-TV President Adopts!

Suzanne Stefan-Clarke, the newly minted president of Gen-TV Studios has some exciting news to share with the world. She is a new mother! At the age of 63, Stefan-Clarke and her husband, Stephen R. Clarke, of Atlanta, Georgia have adopted a 13 1/2 month old baby girl from England, who they have named Stefania Lynne Clarke. This is the first child for Stefan-Clarke, and the third for Stephen R. Clarke, 56 who has two children from a previous relationship; Jordan P. Clarke, 25, a former varsity football player at Georgia State who now is an attending law school at University of Texas; and Claudia Clarke, 19 who is currently competing in the Miss USA Pageant as Miss Georgia and plans to attend Michigan State in the fall to study nursing and drama. He was previously married to the late Lynette Clarke (nee Lyons), formerly of Pigeon Hollow, Tennessee.


Suzanne Stefan-Clarke was briefly married to George Stefan, 61, a retired district court judge who served in southern florida for twenty one years. They married in December 1988 and divorced amicably in July 1991, citing "irreconcilable differences." They have reportedly remained close friends and Mr. Stefan apparently is responsible for introducing Suzanne and Stephen R. Clarke.

Big Gen-TV News:
---Suzanne Stefan-Clarke to retire in May

In a somewhat unexpected turn of events; Gen-TV's current President, Suzanne Stefan-Clarke, 64 has announced that she will retire from Gen-TV and from the television industry all-together in May 2017.

This completely out of the blue decision was apparently made by Stefan-Clarke as she wishes to spend more time at home with her infant daughter. Sources say "Suzanne waited until much later in life to have children and now that she is a mother she wants to give all her attention to her daughter." The formal announcement was made by Stefan-Clarke on her Gen-TV Studios blog that read "It is with a lot of excitement and a little bit of sorrow that I announce my decision to retire from the television business in May 2017." "I started in the TV business decades ago when I was 22 and got my first job as an Intern at CBS News." "Since then I have worked long and hard and carved out a fascinating and satisfying career. I spent 25 years at HBO where I oversaw the development and production of numerous live concerts, comedy shows and theatrical productions. I have also spent over 5 years (on and off) at Gen-TV. I can honestly say that my career has been satisfying and I have nothing left to achieve." "I have worked my way up from intern to a network president. Now, I have to dedicated my time to a more challenging career; mother to Stefania Lynne Clarke." "I thank all my colleagues at Gen-TV and my former associates, friends and co-workers from HBO."

Stefan-Clarke was appointed President of Gen-TV in January 2017, following the death of Sylvia Wilkes-Sharpe. She was hired by Gen-TV in 2012 to oversee live & unscripted events, such as concerts and reality series for the network. She had spent over 25 years at HBO producing live music and comedy events.


At this point Gen-TV has not announced a successor for Stefan-Clarke, but if she has her way it will be Ross Chin, the current Vice President. Clarke says "Ross Chin is the future of Gen-TV; he has a clear vision, and one that frankly will be very good for Gen-Tv." "I believe he is the ideal choice to fill my role as President of Gen-TV."

[yankeesrj12]

Wednesday, March 8th Ratings - YTN
At 8pm, a new episode of Boston General grew to 8.09 million viewers and 1.4/5 among adults 18-49, up a tenth from last week. Half hour: 1.286/1.435

At 9pm, a new episode of CIA Files jumped to 14.37 million viewers and 3.5/12 among adults 18-49, up two tenths from last week. Half hour: 3.532/3.556

At 10pm, week nine of Amazon slid to 8.03 million viewers and 1.6/4 among adults 18-49, down a tenth from last week. Retention from its lead in was 56% among total viewers and 46% in the demo. Half hour: 1.804/1.305



Thursday, March 9th Ratings - YTN
At 8pm, a new episode of Behind the Scenes dwindled to 8.03 million viewers and 2.0/7 among adults 18-49, down a tenth from last week. Unrounded: 2.013

At 830pm, a new episode of Blended perked up to 6.32 million viewers and 1.7/5 among adults 18-49, up a tenth from last week. Unrounded: 1.685

At 9pm, a new episode of The Hughes Family held with 10.29 million viewers and 2.7/8 among adults 18-49, even with last week. Unrounded: 2.710

At 9pm, week eight of Growing Up at 30 dipped to 7.04 million viewers and 1.8/7 among adults 18-49, down two tenths from last week to a new series low. Unrounded: 1.803

At 10pm, a new episode of TAKEN: Phoenix eased to 9.02 million viewers and 1.5/6 among adults 18-49, down a tenth from last week. Half hour: 1.559/1.525



Friday, March 10th Ratings - YTN
At 8pm, a new episode of Secret Service descended to 4.45 million viewers and 0.6/3 among adults 18-49, down a tenth from last week. Half hour: 0.624/0.635

At 9pm, a new episode of Serve and Protect: Detroit ticked down to 8.03 million viewers and 1.0/3 among adults 18-49, down a tenth from last week. Half hour: 1.003/1.044

At 10pm, a new episode of Cops of New York rose to 10.84 million viewers and 1.4/4 among adults 18-49, up a tenth from last week. Half hour: 1.394/1.416

[yankeesrj12]

YTN PRESS RELEASE:
YTN RELEASES SUMMER SCHEDULE
Warm weather and summer television are right around the corner, which means its time for the YTN summer schedule!

Here is the new schedule, with launch dates yet to be announced:

MONDAY
8 - Fear Factor: Flashback (NEW)
9 - Fear Factor
10 - Living in Fear

Details: Fear returns on Monday nights with a brand new season of Fear Factor and Living in Fear. Leading off the night is Fear Factor: Flashback, which features old episodes with never before see clips, as well as new commentary.


TUESDAY
8 - The Neighborhood
9 - Miami Examiner (NEW)
10 - Bloodlines

Details: Hit summer series The Neighborhood returns for an all new season, leading into new summer drama Miami Examiner. Last year freshman breakout summer drama Bloodlines rounds out the night.


WEDNESDAY
8 - 30 Seconds to Win (NEW)
9 - Extended Family
930 - Raising Teenagers
10 - Friends of Mine
1030 - Comedy Repeats

Details: It's not summer without a brand new game show, and 30 Seconds to Win will make its debut in the lead off timeslot. Veteran summer comedy Extended Family and long-running Raising Teenagers inherit the 9 o'clock hour. Friends of Mine comes back in a new later hour, paired with comedy repeats.


THURSDAY
8 to 11 - Outdoor Renovation

Details: Six episodes of Outdoor Renovation will air weekly.


FRIDAY
8 - XXX: My Life Story

Details: The final episodes of XXX: My Life Story lead into repeats.


Still waiting to air:
Second Chance - 13 episodes (season three)
Serial - 13 episodes (season five)
Six - 18 episodes (season one, two, and three)
They Are Out There - 10 episodes (season two)

[factsoflife]

Originally Posted by factsoflife

Big Gen-TV News:
---Suzanne Stefan-Clarke to retire in May

In a somewhat unexpected turn of events; Gen-TV's current President, Suzanne Stefan-Clarke, 64 has announced that she will retire from Gen-TV and from the television industry all-together in May 2017.

This completely out of the blue decision was apparently made by Stefan-Clarke as she wishes to spend more time at home with her infant daughter. Sources say "Suzanne waited until much later in life to have children and now that she is a mother she wants to give all her attention to her daughter." The formal announcement was made by Stefan-Clarke on her Gen-TV Studios blog that read "It is with a lot of excitement and a little bit of sorrow that I announce my decision to retire from the television business in May 2017." "I started in the TV business decades ago when I was 22 and got my first job as an Intern at CBS News." "Since then I have worked long and hard and carved out a fascinating and satisfying career. I spent 25 years at HBO where I oversaw the development and production of numerous live concerts, comedy shows and theatrical productions. I have also spent over 5 years (on and off) at Gen-TV. I can honestly say that my career has been satisfying and I have nothing left to achieve." "I have worked my way up from intern to a network president. Now, I have to dedicated my time to a more challenging career; mother to Stefania Lynne Clarke." "I thank all my colleagues at Gen-TV and my former associates, friends and co-workers from HBO."

Stefan-Clarke was appointed President of Gen-TV in January 2017, following the death of Sylvia Wilkes-Sharpe. She was hired by Gen-TV in 2012 to oversee live & unscripted events, such as concerts and reality series for the network. She had spent over 25 years at HBO producing live music and comedy events.


At this point Gen-TV has not announced a successor for Stefan-Clarke, but if she has her way it will be Ross Chin, the current Vice President. Clarke says "Ross Chin is the future of Gen-TV; he has a clear vision, and one that frankly will be very good for Gen-Tv." "I believe he is the ideal choice to fill my role as President of Gen-TV."

Breaking News:
Ross Chin named Gen-TV President


Confirming what was widely expected all along, Gen-TV has finally named a successor for retiring President Suzanne Stefan-Clarke, as they have officially named Ross Chin to assume the role. Chin, a prodigy who spent nearly half a decade at 20th Century Fox being mentored by Dana Walden and Gary Newman was hired by Clarke to fill the vacant role of Vice President following her succession to President last year following the death of Sylvia Wilkes Sharpe.

Chin will assume the role of President immediately, though Stefan-Clarke will officially remain on the payroll until May 2017 when her retirement kicks into effect.

The role of Vice President will remain vacant for the time being as Gen-TV seeks out a replacement. Sources indicate several names are being considered for the role, including one unlikely candidate, Eva Vargas, currently suspended from YTN. Vargas was previously considered for the President role before Sandy Torres took over.

[factsoflife]

Breaking News:
Gen-TV Announces Summer Schedule


Ross Chin got to work as newly appointed Gen-TV President, announcing the network's Summer 2017 schedule. Some of the touches he added himself include airing season 11 of "Sisters" in the summertime; and adding new episodes of "Sisterly Love" to the line-up.

"Sisters" used to regularly air new episodes in the summer, but producers grew tired of having to produce new episodes all year round and the series was cut to only airing one season a year. "Sisterly Love" recently gained massive promotion when a scandal broke out with a rival network regarding the ratings for the series.

Gen-TV Network
Summer 2017 Schedule
Effective: TBA
Bold Represents New Episodes


Sunday:
8pm: Climb The Pyramid (New To Gen-TV!)
9pm: Love Affair: City Heat (New Season)
10pm: Love with Jennifer Love Hewitt (New Series)
11pm: Investigations & Explorations with Leah Remini (New Series)


NOTES: Game show “Climb The Pyramid” joins Gen-TV’s Monday through Friday schedule at 8pm. At 9pm, summer staple “Love Affair” moves into the late 1980’s and to New York City to follow a summer romance at a New York City nightclub. Kate Walsh returns as L ydia, who know owns the club. At 10pm, Jennifer Love Hewitt hosts a documentary about the history of Love in America. At 11pm, Leah Remini comes to Primetime as “she teams with scientists, private investigators and other experts to explore and investigate some of the most fascinating and often unexplored aspects of life including scientific issues, health issues and other general interest topics.” Some of the topics on-tap for this season include the mysterious dissaperance of Amelia Earhart, the debate on Global Warming and some alternative theories on the OJ Simpson case.

Monday:
8pm: Climb The Pyramid (New To Gen-TV!)
9pm: Making It Work (Reruns)
930: Raising Grandma (New Episodes!)
10pm: Deadly Visions (New Episodes!)
11pm: Boston Homicide (Reruns)

Notes: A new episode of “Climb The Pyramid” is the lead-off a Monday night that includes reruns of “Making It Work”, brand new episodes of “Raising Grandma” and “Deadly Visions” and reruns of “Boston Homicide”.

Tuesday:

8pm: Climb The Pyramid (New To Gen-TV)
9pm: The Hardest Goodbye (New Season)
10pm: Cop City (New Episodes!)
11pm: Mob City (New Series)

NOTES: Tuesday is all new with “Climb The Pyramid”, a new season of cancer-drama “The Hardest Goodbye” (cast announcements coming soon!), new episodes of popular drama “Cop City” and it’s brand new spin-off “Mob City” (cast announcements coming soon).

Wednesday:

8pm: Climb The Pyramid (New To Gen-TV)
9pm: Hart of Family (New Episodes!)
930: Sisterly Love (New Episodes!)
10pm: Trauma Center (New Episodes!)
11pm: Without Borders (New Series!)

NOTES: Wednesday is all-new with “Climb The Pyramid”, new episodes of “Hart of Family” and “Sisterly Love”, a new season of “Trauma Center” and new docudrama “Without Borders”, which follows a team of doctors working with doctors without borders in war torn, impovirshed countries without access to regularl medical treatment.

Thursday:

8pm: Climb The Pyramid (New To Gen-TV)
9pm: Celebrity Cooking Battles(New Season)
10pm: The Winners Circle (New Game Show!)
11pm: The Mallory’s of Jefferson County (Reruns)

NOTES: On Thursday night it is three hours of game shows with “Climb The Pyramid”, “Celebrity Cooking Battles”, new trivia series “The Winners Circle” followed by reruns of “The Mallory’s of Jefferson County.”

Friday:

8pm: Climb The Pyramid (New To Gen-TV)
9pm: Selling Out (Reruns)
930: Every Other Weekend (Reruns)
10pm: Being Janet Jackson (New Season)
11pm: Sisters (New Episodes!)

NOTES: Friday night has “Climb The Pyramid” at 8pm, followed by reruns of “Selling Out” and “Every Other Weekend”, a new season of “Being Janet Jackson” and season 11 of “Sisters”.

Saturday:

8pm: Magic School (Reruns)
830: Zendaya (Reruns)
9pm: Outside The Lines (Reruns)
930: Mama Knows Best (Reruns)
10pm: Unlikely Family (Reruns)
1030pm: Threesome (Reruns)
11pm: The Mulroney Mysteries (Reruns)

NOTES: Saturday night is all reruns with “Magic School”, “Zendaya”, “Outside The Lines”, “Mama Knows Best”, “Unlikely Family”, “Threesome” and “The Mulroney Mysteries.”