NBC Looks to Great White North for 'Listener'

by A.J. Frutkin
MediaWeek.com

FEBRUARY 01, 2008 -

As broadcasters look to acquire scripted programming while sidestepping legal issues surrounding the Hollywood writers strike, Canada is fast becoming an attractive supplier. NBC announced today plans to air a Canadian TV drama tentatively titled The Listener.

Produced by Toronto-based Shaftesbury Films, the series revolves around a 20-something paramedic who can read minds. NBC has ordered 13 episodes of the series, which is scheduled to begin filming in the spring.

NBC's announcement follows a similar move by CBS, which revealed on Tuesday its plans to partner with CTV on a dramatic series. Tentatively titled Flashpoint, the program focuses on a SWAT-like tactical team of cops that deal with gangs, hostages and bombs.