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‘Naked Truth’ Reveals More of NBC-ABC Feud

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Inflaming its rivalry with Walt Disney Co., NBC has snagged a second series from Disney’s ABC television network, picking up “The Naked Truth.” The Brillstein-Grey comedy, starring Tea Leoni, aired on ABC last season.

In April, NBC surprised the television community by picking up for Monday night “The Jeff Foxworthy Show,” another Brillstein-Grey comedy that aired on ABC last season. ABC canceled “Foxworthy,” but it had placed a 13-episode order for “The Naked Truth” as a midseason backup show.

But because ABC failed to order a full 22 episodes for the fall season, Brillstein-Grey had the option of shopping elsewhere. NBC essentially matched ABC’s offer, buying 13 episodes for midseason, although it may well use the show before then. Sources suggested that NBC’s higher ratings give it an edge in bidding for shows.

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NBC executives apparently believe they can do better with the show than did ABC, where “The Naked Truth” wasn’t a hit.

The rivalry between NBC and ABC ignited when Disney sought out NBC’s star development executive, Jamie Tarses, for a top spot at ABC Entertainment, apparently well before her contract was up. Last week, Tarses became president of ABC Entertainment.

Sources say the latest development also indicates strained relations between Brillstein-Grey and partner ABC, which helps finance its television production in a 50-50 joint venture. Just last month, Brillstein-Grey sold the 50% not owned by ABC to MCA, a move that is said to have angered Disney executives.

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