New network TV shows compete with controversy for attention

NEW YORK — Broadcast networks invest serious time and money in rolling out their upcoming schedules for ad-buyers this week in New York.

But with stars like Jussie Smollett and Constance Wu, controversy can get in the way.

When Fox announced that next season would be the last for its drama “Empire,” its executives were asked whether Smollett would be included.

The answer: No plans at this time.

Smollett fell under a cloud after Chicago authorities charged him with staging an attack on himself, although charges were dropped.

“Fresh Off the Boat” star Wu became the subject of jokes after her online rant about the ABC sitcom’s one-season renewal.

That led late-night host Jimmy Kimmel to joke at the network’s presentation: Wu would call a three-year pickup “a death sentence.”

Lynn Elber, The Associated Press


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