UPCOMING WAR SHORTENS DEAD ZONE SEASON

Monday, March 17, 2003 - 1:39 PM
USA Pulls Osama 'Dead Zone' Episode
By Brian Ford Sullivan


CHICAGO (thefutoncritic.com) -- USA has pulled an upcoming episode of its original series "The Dead Zone" that heavily mentions terrorist-at-large Osama Bin Laden.

The episode, "The Hunt for Osama," features Johnny Smith (Anthony Michael Hall) being recruited by a little known branch of the C.I.A. to help track down America's most wanted fugitive: Osama Bin Laden. Co-written by Joseph McMoneagle (author of "The Stargate Chronicles: Memoirs of a Psychic Spy") the hour is based on the true history of the U.S. government's "remote viewing" or psychic espionage program. While officially disbanded in 1995, various sources believe it is continuing secretly or on a contract basis in order to assist in the war on terrorism.

USA was not available for comment on the schedule change.

Originally set to air March 30 at 10:00/9:00c, another new episode, "Playing God" (featuring fellow brat-packer Ally Sheedy) will air instead. A new air date for "The Hunt for Osama" has not been given. Because of the episode being yanked, the second season of "The Dead Zone" will conclude a week early, on April 6.

Thanks to Linda for the info!