FOX GOES COUNTRY

Monarch, Fox’s scripted country-music series with Susan Sarandon and actual country star Trace Adkins, will premier 1/30 after the NFC championship game (the second episode will appear in the show's regular Monday slot on 2/1).

Sarandon and Adkins (who acquitted himself nicely in the recent western Old Henry) play the reigning king and queen of country music, whose dynasty is in jeopardy.

Jason Owen of Sandbox Entertainment is one of the executive producers. The series will feature original music and covers, with Adam Anders serving as Executive Music Producer.

Most TV analysts figured Atlanta/Houston would be a demographic flop for Fox, but could it have a more appropriate audience for the new show?