Welcome back to a proper Upfronts season, the moment when network TV reveals all their secret plans for the fall television season (such as it is anymore). In the wake of a destructive pandemic and in the face of the inevitable takeover of streaming, networks are playing it safer and safer: canceling fewer shows, ordering fewer comedies, and greenlighting familiar titles.
CBS, like everyone else, is playing it safe. They’ve ordered four new scripted series — all one-hour dramas — two of which are traditional procedurals. The other two are more playful dramedies, but nothing is breaking new ground here. In fact, the most surprising addition to the fall lineup is a reality reimagining of a television classic.
