Channel 4 acquires new US comedies, dramas

Channel 4 has bagged the rights to two new dramas and two new comedies launching next season in the US.

The pickup includes Ron Rifkin family drama Brothers & Sisters (more info) and Betty The Ugly (more info), a one hour comedy featuring Extras star Ashley Jensen. Both come from BVITV.

C4 has also acquired new Warner Bros. drama Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (more info), from West Wing creator Aaron Sorkin and starring Friends alumnus Matt Perry, as well as comedy The Class (more info), which comes from David Crane (Friends).

"We are delighted to have secured the rights to these much sought after series that confirm C4's commitment to the best of US drama and comedy," said Jeff Ford, director of acquisitions at C4.

According to early reports, The Class has been earmarked for Friday nights on C4, with a supporting slot on E4. Betty The Ugly will air as part of T4 at weekends, as well as E4.

Meanwhile, the two dramas are likely to air in a 10pm slot on C4, with the next episodes following straight after on More4.