The Fox network introduced its upcoming roster of shows during the presentation on Thursday during the Television Critics Association summer press tour, according to Variety. Fox chiefs spoke about ramping up shows like "Empire" and "X-Files" in lieu of the "American Idol" departure after the show's fifteenth season.
"Our entire development slate is ramping up towards not having 'American Idol,' " Fox TV Group co-chairman and CEO Dana Walden said. She also mentioned the network is also fully committed to "year-round development," according to Variety. "It's completely necessary to break out of that pilot cycle."
One of the network's new shows is another order from "Empire" creator Lee Daniels called "Star," which focuses on an aspiring girl group, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Gary Newman, co-chairman and CEO, spoke about how "Empire" helped the network employ VOD and streaming views to increase the audience for its shows. "Empire" averaged more than 500,000 viewers since it's been available at Fox.com.
"We're mindful that consumers want to watch things in certain ways," Newman said. "But clearly there is an ability for (viewers) to connect deeply with the method of turning out for shows week after week."
The network is also relying old cult favorites like the'90s sci-fi series "X-Files," which ended in 2002 after nine seasons. Part of Newman and Walden's presentation featured a clip from the series' upcoming revival, which starred original stars Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny reprising their roles.
