Typically, networks set their biggest events for the November, February or May sweeps periods. However, fresh off the post-sweeps success of “Mitch Albom’s The Five People You Meet in Heaven,” ABC has scheduled “Oprah Winfrey Presents Their Eyes Were Watching God” for a March premiere.
Based on the classic novel by Zora Neale Hurston (whose name, apparently, isn’t commercial enough to be title-worthy), “God” will air at 8 p.m. March 6.
In addition to finding its basis in a respected piece of literature and carrying Winfrey’s name and promotional power, the telefilm stars Oscar winner and “Catwoman” star Halle Berry in a rare network television appearance.
Emmy winner Ruby Dee and Tony winner Ruben Santiago-Hudson co-star in the project about an African-American woman’s quest for independence, love and spiritual fulfillment in the 1920s.
The Dec. 5 airing of “The Five People You Meet in Heaven” drew 18.6 million viewers, making it television’s fifth most-watched show for the week.
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Edited by Cara DiPasquale ([email protected]) and Kris Karnopp ([email protected])
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