Abrams, Whedon shows lead new Fox lineup

New shows from Lost guru J.J. Abrams and Buffy creator Joss Whedon have been unveiled as part of Fox's lineup for 2008-09.

The network plans to launch its Fall schedule earlier than any other broadcaster, beginning on August 25 with a two-hour premiere of Prison Break. Abrams' Fringe - about an outbreak of "terrorist / paranormal events" - airs its two-hour pilot the following night.

Whedon's effort Dollhouse, starring Buffy and Angel's Eliza Dushku, is being saved for midseason, where it will launch off the back of ratings powerhouse American Idol.

Returning for a second season, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles will be paired with Prison Break on Monday nights until January, when Dollhouse and the long overdue seventh season of 24 take over the night. As for the latter, the two-hour "prequel" movie has been scheduled for Sunday, November 23.

Other returning series include ratings winner House, forensic drama Bones, the comedy 'Til Death and the reality series Kitchen Nightmares, Hell's Kitchen and Moment Of Truth.

Just one new comedy will premiere in the Fall: Do Not Disturb, starring Jerry O'Connell (Sliders) as manager of a top New York hotel. The Sunday night animation lineup of The Simpsons, King Of The Hill, American Dad and Family Guy will be bolstered by new Family Guy spinoff The Cleveland Show and school-set Sit Down, Shut Up next Spring.

Not making the cut through to next season are Back To You, K-Ville, New Amsterdam, Nashville, Canterbury's Law, Unhitched and The Return of Jezebel James.

> Click here for a night-by-night rundown of the new Fox lineup