Its Official: CBS Saved Medium

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CBS reveals fall schedule

"Mentalist" shifts to Thursday slot

By James Hibberd and Nellie Andreeva

May 20, 2009, 09:46 AM ET

Stability-embracing broadcaster CBS will make a few strategic moves next fall, including relocating its breakout hit "The Mentalist," shaking up its Monday comedy block and picking up "Medium" from rival NBC.

CBS is shifting "The Mentalist" to Thursdays at 10 p.m., giving the show a "CSI" lead-in. Network executives told reporters Wednesday morning that the move is part of a strategy to take advantage of NBC pulling its scripted shows from the hour.

"We think the 10 p.m. change is huge," said CBS Corp. president and CEO Les Moonves. "There will be more share available at 10 p.m. for those of us who put on great dramas."

Regarding the "Mentalist" switch, CBS scheduling chief Kelly Kahl said, "We saw an opportunity to take a strong show and make it a stronger show."

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