Project Runway leaves Bravo, moves to Lifetime! NBC files suit


Auf wiedersaywhat?! Project Runway producer the Weinstein Co. has inked a five-year deal to move cable\'s top-rated reality series to Lifetime, where Season 6 would premiere in November.

That is, if Bravo\'s owner can let go. NBC Universal has filed suit in New York Supreme Court, accusing Weinstein of violating its rights by making the deal with Lifetime. According to the New York Times, the suit claims TWC concluded its deal with Lifetime on Feb. 7, yet continued to negotiate with NBC Universal for two more months. In a statement, NBC said, "NBC Universal has continuing rights related to Project Runway, including a right of first refusal to future cycles of the series, which the Weinstein Company unfortunately has refused to honor."

That said, Runway never was going to remain on Bravo, as Weinstein\'s deal with NBCU dictated that the show be relocated to a larger network, perhaps either USA Network or NBC proper.

"We believe that this lawsuit is without merit," Weinstein\'s counsel says in a statement. "[It] is always unfortunate when parties try to win in court what they have lost in the marketplace." — MWM

Source: TVGuide.com