Programming

Pop tart Britney Spears and ratty-looking backup dancer/fianc� Kevin Federline are said to be in talks with MTV to become the next "Newlyweds," where they would take over for the departing Jessica Simpson/Nick Lachey dyad. — In a match made in heaven, Howard Stern and Spike TV are teaming on animated series "Howard Stern: The High School Years." The net’s ordered 13 eps and hopes to launch next summer. Spike’s had mixed success with animation, as "Gary the Rat" and "Stripperella" struggled to find an audience. — PA car dealer Gary Wert landed a hosting gig on The Outdoor Channel after winning the "Win Your Own Fishing Show Contest" last year. "Fishing with Gary Wert" bows Mon, 9pm. — MTV bears down on yet another reality series, signing NY uber flack Lizzie Grubman for 6-ep "PoweR Girls" (spring ’05). The show will follow Grubman and her minions as they micromanage the Manhattan nightlife for clients like Jay-Z. Grubman’s best known for mowing down 16 Hamptons hipsters with her SUV in July ’01. — An FX production crew is in N’awlins shooting the pilot for a series titled "Thief." If the show gets the green light, it would give "Homicide" alum Andre Braugher his 1st juicy role since ’99. "Thief" is expected to bow next year.