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RENEWAL ALERT: Raising Hope

After becoming the first freshman show to earn a full season order, FOX's Raising Hope has now become the first freshman show to earn a second season. Airing after Glee, Hope has managed to find an audience and has developed a loyal following even when Glee's ratings fluctuate. Through 10 episodes aired in its regular timeslot, it has averaged 6.4 million viewers and a solid 2.7 in the demo. These numbers may not seem great but it has been gaining - its most recent episode delivered its best numbers since the series premiere. It will return after a two month break on February 8, continuing to air after Glee and leading into the new comedy Traffic Light.

FOX certainly hopes that this will be a step in the right direction for them in the live action comedy genre where they have struggled for years. It's not my cup of tea but it's clear that it has found an audience and is probably one of the more critically successful new sitcoms in this underwhelming season. Raising Hope joins a few other FOX shows that have already been renewed - Glee, The Simpsons, and The Cleveland Show. Family Guy, Bones, America's Most Wanted, and Cops seem to be sure bets as well. House too if series star Hugh Laurie wants to continue. On the bubble is Fringe, Human Target, Lie to Me, Million Dollar Money Drop, and American Dad! and it's too soon to tell for the midseason shows - only one of which has premiered so far. Stay tuned!

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