NBC May Launch ‘Chuck’ Sooner

I find it somewhat surprising that as successful as NBC‘s Thursday night lineup can be (how many Emmy’s has 30 Rock won?) the network continues to struggle. In what seems like a perpetual fourth place position, NBC is constantly trying to drum up ratings. This year is no exception and only a month or so into the new season we’re staring to see television schedules being  juggled.

In light of this, Entertainment Weekly’s Michael Ausiello is reporting that NBC may bring back Chuck earlier then anticipated:

“As early as late October, my moles tell me. And while it remains unclear whether the little show that could (and has and shall again) would return to its Monday timeslot or find itself a new perch, NBC insiders who’ve seen the first four episodes are calling this season the best yet.”

Originally Chuck was slated to return in March. The show was set to pickup the timeslot Heroes held on Mondays once that show concluded its shorter season. While this early return is good for Chuck, the same may not be said for Heroes.

The struggling super hero drama continues to slip in ratings. This week’s episode gained just over 5 million live viewers. Bad news considering it ended last season holding around 8 million until the finale. Granted, once you factor in DVR numbers, Heroes may fair better, but even then the show just isn’t gaining as much traction this season.

Chuck’s rumored October return combined with the sudden cancellation of Southland makes me wonder if NBC is looking to make even more radical changes. If Chuck takes over the Monday night timeslot what will that mean for Heroes? Will it be bumped to another night or from the schedule completely? At this point, anything seems possible and it may be in Heroes‘ fans best interest to start a “Save Heroes” website just like the one for Dollhouse.