Preach It, Matt!

Have I mentioned lately how much I love TV Guide's Matt Roush? Here's an excerpt from his latest online "Ask Matt" column.

Question: There have been a slew of fantasy/science-fiction shows over the years (Hercules, Xena, Andromeda, Stargate, and The Lost World) in syndication. However, the networks (with the exception of WB and UPN) just don't produce these sorts of series. Why not? - Lee C.

Matt: Don't forget Fox, which has tried for years to find the next X-Files, and most recently went into outer space with Firefly, however briefly. The networks don't seem to have the patience anymore to nurture or bankroll these kinds of shows. Blame a lack of nerve and imagination. Many of these shows take time to build a following, and even then, most attain cult level at best. (X-Files was the exception with its mainstream success.) But when one really works, like Buffy, look what that does for a network's image. You'd think if some of these dinosaur networks truly wanted to get into the 21st century, they'd take a risk with a visionary producer (calling the next Gene Roddenberry) and stick with it, especially if the show is good. Now all of a sudden I find myself missing Farscape again.