UPDATE 1-Fox adds comedy, thriller to TV's strongest lineup

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By Paul Thomasch

NEW YORK, May 15 (Reuters) - Fox Broadcasting on Thursday rolled out a fall television schedule that adds a science-fiction thriller, from one of TV's hottest producers, and a workplace comedy to a lineup that is already tops with viewers.

Among the major broadcast networks, the News Corp (NWSa.N: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) unit is sitting in the driver's seat, finishing out a season as the most watched network -- both overall and with younger viewers -- thanks to its blockbuster "American Idol."

Supporting "American Idol" is a roster filled with hits like "House" and "Bones," not to mention the countdown thriller "24," set to return after its current season was thwarted by the screenwriters' strike.

With a lineup that strong and a development season that was abbreviated by the strike, Fox decided to add just two new shows this fall.

"We looked at our schedule and thought we don't need a lot, and the good news is we got what we need," said Fox Entertainment President Kevin Reilly.

Fox is making a big publicity push with "Fringe," a new science-fiction drama from J.J. Abrams, the force behind the popular castaway thriller "Lost" on Walt Disney Co's (DIS.N: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) ABC. He was also behind past audience favorites "Alias" and "Felicity."

"There are high expectations for this," said Reilly. "The guy delivers on those expectations."