Let the Speculation Begin

While we have heard various grumblings, the new Fox schedule is not set in stone yet. But here is what the HR is reporting about pickups:

Over at Fox, J.J. Abrams “Fringe” looks like a lock after an enthusiastic response from the network’s brass during the weekend. Fox already has given its blessing for staffing to begin on the Warner Bros. TV-produced sci-fi drama.

“Fringe,” which has the scope of Abrams’ “Lost,” is rumored for a fall launch as a key weapon in Fox’s effort to shake off its fourth-quarter ratings blues. It could be paired with “Prison Break” or “Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles.”

Fox’s other high-profile new entry, Joss Whedon’s “Dollhouse,” which is still in production, is eyed for midseason. Meanwhile, the Bernie Mac starrer “Starting Under,” which also was delivered to the network during the weekend, looks good to join Fox’s multicamera comedies “Back to You” and ” ‘Til Death.”

Also set to be hot at Fox are comedies “Outnumbered” and “Spaced.”