Free Classic TV Airing on New Networks

Are you tired of all the reality shows on television these days? Do you long for the less-graphic crime dramas of the past? Do you have fond memories of laughing hysterically at sitcoms--and even drowning out the laugh tracks? If so, you're in luck. Several newer television networks air classic programming as an alternative to the current lineup, and you won't need cable or a satellite dish to be able to enjoy them. Whether you're into wholesome comedies or some of the more groundbreaking shows of the past, check your local listings for these new free channels.

Antenna TV
Antenna TV, owned by Tribune Broadcasting, is a new network that launched at midnight Eastern Standard Time on January 1, 2011. Programming from Antenna TV is available both over the air and on many cable systems. At this time, neither DISH Network nor DIRECTV carries Antenna TV, but that could change in the future.

The current schedule includes such favorites as All in the Family, The Benny Hill Show, Father Knows Best, Gidget, Here Come the Brides, The Monkees, and Too Close for Comfort. Some stations also air local programming in addition to the classic shows.

Me-TV
Me-TV, or "Memorable Entertainment Television," specializes in classic television shows from the 1950s through the 1980s. It became available to affiliates throughout the country on December 15, 2010. Owned by the Chicago-based Weigel Broadcasting Company, Me-TV is available on cable and over the air, as well as on satellite dish in some locations. It is currently in limited markets, but network executives hope for rapid expansion.

The network launched with approximately fifty classic television series for which it obtained long-term license agreements. Classic comedies currently airing on Me-TV include The Bob Newhart Show, Hogan's Heroes, M*A*S*H, and Petticoat Junction. Other shows on the lineup include Cannon, Perry Mason, The Streets of San Francisco, and The Untouchables. Local affiliates also have the right to air local programming from time to time.

RTV
The Retro Television Network, known simply as RTV, launched in July 2005 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Since then, affiliates have popped up throughout the continental United States, with most being in the eastern half of the country. In addition, an RTV2 network is planned for the future.

Current programming includes both The Alfred Hitchcock Hour and Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Alias Smith and Jones, The Archies, Ellery Queen, Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries, Lassie, Magnum P.I., McHale's Navy, and Quincy. There's much more on the schedule, which consists of shows RTV's owner, Henry Luken, thinks people would want to watch.

THIS TV
Like Me-TV, THIS TV is a Weigel-owned television network devoted to classic programming. It also gives affiliates the freedom to substitute local programming at times.

THIS TV airs classic MGM shows such as Mister Ed, Sea Hunt, and The Patty Duke Show. In addition, much of the schedule is devoted to movies, some of which are available on the website. Elvira fans, take note: THIS TV carries Elvira's Movie Macabre, an updated version of her original Movie Macabre.

You won't need cable or a satellite dish to enjoy these digital substations; they're available over the air for free, although some of them are also available through paid services. These networks aren't in all areas yet, but they are expanding, and there's a good chance you have already access to at least one. In addition, new channels pop up all the time, so if you're into classic TV shows, keep an eye out for these networks and more.

Sources:
Antenna TV, Official Site
Me-TV, Official Site
RTV, Official Site
Back From Basic, BusinessTN
THIS TV, Official Site