Networks Go Back to Basics; Reality Programs Scaled Back as Fall Schedule Is Readied

Beginning of article

Byline: Christian Toto, THE WASHINGTON TIMES

Summer's nearly over, and it's time for the networks to put away their reality toys.

Reality television won't disappear entirely from the television landscape now that fall is upon us. But the networks are hoping their throwback approach - scripts, actors and other antiquated techniques - will entice viewers in the weeks to come.

If not, plenty of mid-season reality shows are probably being cooked up at this very moment.

At ABC, fall means four new sitcoms and three new dramas arriving to reinforce its low-rated schedule.

The most promising sitcom, if name recognition counts for anything, is "Hope & Faith" (Friday, 9 p.m.). Kelly Ripa and Faith Ford star as two very different sisters - Miss Ripa plays a soap opera diva, while Miss Ford is a stay-at-home mom. When Miss Ripa's alter ego gets written out of the show, the actress moves in with Miss Ford.

The network's "Karen Sisco" (Wednesday, 10 p.m.) takes Jennifer Lopez's character from the 1998 cult film "Out of Sight" and fleshes out her life as a U.S. marshal in South Beach The show features solid support from …