With just over a month into its second season, Lifetime's popular drama
Army Wives is set to at least have a third installment, thanks to record-setting ratings and constant raves about the casting and its actors. Lifetime Networks President and CEO Andrea Wong made this announcement at the TCA Press Tour, July 11.
"Since premiering last year,” said Wong, “'Army Wives' has become a game-changer for Lifetime. Announcing this early renewal is a testament to the enormous faith and confidence we have in this show and its incredibly talented cast and production team.
Army Wives exemplifies what Lifetime is all about -- friendship, compassion, humor and heart. We are very proud of both its water cooler resonance and its success."
Army Wives turned out to become the most successful series for the Lifetime Network since its June 3 premiere last year. The premiere alone became Lifetime's best series opening in the network's 24-year history, drawing in 3.7 million viewers. As it progressed,
Army Wives also became Lifetime's most watched original drama series in terms of total viewers, putting in an average of 3.7 million viewers during its maiden season.
Moreover, it also ranks first among women 18-49 and women 25-54 on all of ad-supported basic cable. ABC Studios President Mark Pedowitz likewise praised the relevance of the series in today's politically divided landscape.
"The show's strong cast and storylines relevant to current culture resonate with viewers. We expect the momentum to continue, and look forward to working with our partners at Lifetime on another exciting season."
Eighteen episodes of
Army Wives have been ordered for the third season, which will begin in 2009. Army Wives currently airs Sundays at 10pm.
-Glenn Diaz, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
Source:
The Futon Critic
(Image Courtesy of TV Guide)