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Reality-based networks reaching into scripted TV

This image released by Bravo shows Paul Adelstein, from left, Conner Dwelly, Lisa Edelstein, and Dylan Schombing in a scene from "Girlfriends' Guide to Divorce," Bravo's first original scripted series, premiering Dec. 2. (AP Photo/Bravo, Carole Segal)
This image released by Bravo shows Paul Adelstein, from left, Conner Dwelly, Lisa Edelstein, and Dylan Schombing in a scene from "Girlfriends' Guide to Divorce," Bravo's first original scripted series, premiering Dec. 2. (AP Photo/Bravo, Carole Segal) This image released by Bravo shows Paul Adelstein, from left, Conner Dwelly, Lisa Edelstein, and Dylan Schombing in a scene from "Girlfriends' Guide to Divorce," Bravo's first original scripted series, premiering Dec. 2. (AP Photo/Bravo, Carole Segal)

By Associated Press 5 min read

NEW YORK (AP) – Can a zebra change its stripes?

Not likely. But these days numerous reality-based networks are sporting new stripes in the form of scripted fare as they move to stretch their brand and freshen their look.

Consider:

– TruTV last month added several scripted series to the mix, including the sketch-comedy show “Friends of the People” (airing Tuesdays at 10 p.m. EST).

– Animal Planet is in the scripted swim with “The Whale: Revenge From the Deep,” a drama special premiering Nov. 26 starring Martin Sheen. This isn’t the network’s first scripted program (maybe you recall “Mermaids” a few years ago), but now it’s poised to go even further with scripted series as well: An adaptation of the popular zombie animal graphic novel “The Other Dead” is targeted for early 2016.