B. Smith leads with 'Style;' weekly lifestyle programs - and counterprograming - collect clearances. ("B. Smith with Style" leads group of lifestyle-oriented first run syndicated shows expected to emerge in 1997)

Broadcasting & Cable, February, 1997 by Littleton, Cynthia

Weekly lifestyle programs--and counterprograming--collect clearances Hearst Entertainment's B. Smith with Style leads the pack of new first-run weekly lifestyle/how-to programs coming out of last month's NATPE convention. B. Smith has been cleared in eight of the top 10 markets, including NBC O&Os in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago.

The show, hosted by author/restaurateur Barbara Smith, has attracted national sponsorship from Procter & Gamble and Kraft Foods. Industry observers say B. Smith could be the heir to Martha Stewart Living's throne as a weekend daytime draw for broadcasters, particularly in New York, where Smith, a former fashion model, is prominent in social and business circles. After four seasons as a solid performer for the CBS...

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