Word that Showtime’s "Fat Actress" ep #1 will stream on Yahoo! (Mar 7, 10pm ET) just as it debuts on Showtime fits nicely with plans to use free previews to attract subs. Showtime’s gearing up for a free, 4-day preview timed to showcase the Kirstie Alley series. Premium nets often negotiate free previews individually with operators, but Showtime is making this preview available to MSOs nationwide. Cable operator response has been strong. In addition to making Showtime net available for free, operators can opt to offer free SVOD content. HBO recently included SVOD content in a weeklong preview with Comcast that ended Sun. Stats on VOD usage during the preview weren’t immediately available. — Time Warner NYC subs can get a free, month-long preview of Showtime. Since the system must scramble premium nets’ signals, those wanting the preview would need a box. It’s easier to give customers a box for a month-long preview as opposed to just 4 days, TW Cable says. TWC NY customers will have to call the operator to request the preview.

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Wednesday–December 2

All Eyes on DISH

Could the two largest satellite operators in the US soon be without deals for two of the country’s largest broadcast station groups? AT&T/DirecTV lost some 60 TEGNA stations Tuesday night at 7pm ET, and

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