By James Caldwell, PWTorch.com assistant editor

WWE Smackdown is safe for the next TV season on MyNetworkTV. The issue now becomes how many local affiliates are going to retain MyNet branding to carry Smackdown.

MyNet announced last week they are cutting back on original TV content offered to affiliates and dropping certain "crime" shows in favor of family-friendly Law & Order dramas that are more appealing to advertisers.

The change will hopefully result in the approximately 180 local affiliates retaining the MyNetwork affiliation instead of trying to branch out on their own.

"MyNet is in the process of re-signing stations to affiliation agreements, which were set to expire at the end of this season," reports TVWeek.com. "Changing to crime dramas from MyNet’s edgy shows ... may make things easier on station sales reps."

TVWeek reports that station managers are willing to give the big corporation a chance with the new "programming service" change. If MyNet doesn't fill additional TV content with compelling program, though, stations might not renew those deals.

Pressure is on MyNet to deliver more compelling re-run programming that could draw viewers since they're not offering as much original content. MyNet losing affiliates could severely affect Smackdown, which wouldn't be seen in as many homes.

FYI: If you attend tonight's WWE Smackdown taping in Portland, be sure to send in a report to pwtorch@gmail.com.

Link: TVWeek.com report.

RELATED STORY at PWTorch.com: MyNet's original announcement of blowing up the TV model.

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