Following a ratings downturn this season, the WB plans a significant shakeup of its primetime lineup this fall. In the schedule set to be unveiled to advertisers Tuesday in New York, the network will open up a comedy block on Wednesday for the first time since the 1997-98 season, introduce a one-hour variety show and, for the first time, have a reality series on its fall slate: "Studio 7," from "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" executive producer Michael Davies. ABC has ordered at least six new dramas but only two comedies: "Savages," from executive producers Mel Gibson and "The Simpsons" veterans Mike Scully and Julie Thacker-Scully, and an untitled project starring comedian Rodney Carrington.

Subscribe to the Hollywood Reporter and see the entertainment industry from its best angle: the inside looking out. Complete access to real-time news and exclusive analysis that goes behind the scenes from film to television, home video to digital media.

   Subscribe now.