TNT Picks Up Canceled NBC Drama "Southland"

A change of venue can often be just what a television series needs in order to keep going.

Cable network TNT announced today that it has officially obtained the exclusive rights to the crime drama "Southland." The show, which was canceled by NBC in October before the premiere of its second season, will begin airing the seven first season episodes in January, as well as the six episodes shot for the second season.

In a press release from TNT, Steve Koonin, president of Turner Entertainment Networks, detailed the business deal.

"This is a great win for fans of 'Southland' and a perfect opportunity to introduce the series to new viewers," Koonin said. "It's also another outstanding example of how TNT has established itself as the go-to place for the best dramas on television."

Peter Roth, president of "Southland" production company Warner Bros. Television, was enthusiastic about the show's revival.

"We are extremely pleased that TNT has acquired all 13 episodes of 'Southland,' giving devoted fans the opportunity to watch a show that they passionately support," Roth said.

Executive producer John Wells agreed, saying that those involved with "Southland" "are all extremely proud of the show."

Wells was also an executive producer for "ER." In its first season, "Southland" filled the timeslot left vacant by the long-running medical drama in NBC's Thursday night lineup.

The series, commended by critics from The New York Times, Hollywood Reporter and Daily Variety, follows the exploits of the members of the Los Angeles Police Department. In its first season, the show featured intense, graphic storylines centered around Officer John Cooper (Michael Cudlitz) and trainee Ben Sherman (Benjamin McKenzie). Also in the cast: Regina King, Tom Everett Scott, Arija Bareikis and C. Thomas Howell.

"Southland" will air on TNT on Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET/PT, starting Jan. 12.