E! revamps its network with new original shows

(CBS/AP) The E! News network is revamping its schedule.

The entertainment network that is home to the Kardashians' reality TV show has expansion plans that include a new music series from "American Idol" producer Nigel Lythgoe, a reality series with the oldest member of the Jonas Brothers and a talk show starring Whitney Cummings.

E! is also sticking with what works, announcing last week a new three-year deal to keep the Kardashian reality TV empire in-house.

"You'll see us keep our fun and keep our attitude," said E! President Suzanne Kolb. "I think you'll see us be a little broader. We feel like E! is to pop culture what ESPN is to sports and I think we need to fully realize that."

The most high-profile attempt to broaden E!'s offerings comes on July 9 with the premiere of Lythgoe's "Opening Act." Each week, producers will pick an unknown musical act that has posted work online, surprising the artist with the chance to open a concert for acts like Rod Stewart, Brad Paisley and Nicki Minaj. The series, which features Mary J. Blige, follows the acts as they prepare and execute the potential career-changing gigs.

In August, E! premieres "Married to Jonas," featuring Nick Jonas and Danielle Deleasa, a hairstylist in training who met the musician while they were both vacationing in the Bahamas two years ago. The series depicts the couple juggling work and family and is being produced by Ryan Seacrest.

The network is increasing its news coverage of athletes to attract more men. Men are also more interested in E!'s topical programming like "The Soup," according to Kolb, and Cummings' new series will follow "The Soup" on Wednesday nights.

Titled "Love You, Mean It with Whitney Cummings," it's a talk show with celebrity guests and sidekick Julian McCullough.

Another California family getting the reality show treatment is actor Clint Eastwood and his wife, Dina, a former television anchor. "Mrs. Eastwood & Company," which begins on May 20, also features the actor's two daughters and a singing group that Dina discovered on a trip to South Africa and is now managing.

The network is increasing its original programming so viewers see fewer reruns, said Kolb.