It's the Fox podcasting network

LOS ANGELES - Fox Broadcasting Co. is embracing podcasting in a big way, creating free programming that fans can download and play any time and anywhere they want.

On Thursday, the network began offering audio episode recaps for all of its series in what Chris Carlisle, Fox Broadcasting executive vp marketing and promotion, said was just the first step.

"Podcasting is a phenomenal concept, and it's going to explode," Carlisle said. "We're approaching it from a very, very aggressive point of view. You already have an audience plugged in to these devices and this delivery system. We want to reach them where they are and give them what they want."

Fox will expand the initiative Aug. 29, timed to coincide with the premiere of "Prison Break," by adding exclusive material similar to DVD extras. Carlisle said Fox vp new media Carolyn Gray and her team are working with producers, actors and other creators "to get content that nobody else has - even within our own network."

For the third phase, which begins Sept. 19, Fox will offer recaps of entire seasons for such selected shows as "24" and "Arrested Development" for listening before the new season's launch. Carlisle said these podcast packages also will help promote the relevant DVD boxed-set releases.

Fans can subscribe to these Foxcasts, in the network's parlance, at Fox.com and then play them back on their computer or portable digital music device. Free podcasting software automatically downloads and organises each episode when it becomes available.

"It's important to take advantage of every avenue available and talk directly to our audience," Gray said. "Podcasts are an emerging and important platform, and we want to be at the forefront of their application to our young and first adopter viewers."

- REUTERS/Hollywood Reporter