ABC’s ‘Scandal’ season 3: Episodes from past and present to join BET lineup

Shonda Rhimes has found another home for her hit drama “Scandal” off of its primary network in ABC, and it is one where you continue to see it grow and expand its audience: BET. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the network is going to begin airing repeats of the show’s first and second season this summer, with season 3 episodes airing at some point in the future after some sort of unspecified delay.

It is easy to see why BET would be interested in taking an off-network syndication risk on a show that is only two seasons in: “Scandal” has become a phenomenon, and Kerry Washington has also become an inspiration as the only black actress currently top-lining a network drama series going into this year. It’s a soapy show that brings dozens of gossip-worthy moments, and while we don’t know if it repeats so well for viewers who have already seen some of the surprises, BET has a very loyal audience of people who may not have seen the show just yet. (It’s also possible that viewers who caught the show late could go back and watch it from the beginning.)

For more proof of just how strong this machine has become, “Scandal” has become an equal to “Grey’s Anatomy” in the 18-49 ratings, which is something we never would have imagined back when it premiered to so-so numbers. When you consider that this show airs at 10:00 p.m. Eastern during the week, it makes the numbers even more impressive.

Do you think that this is a great move both for “Scandal” and BET to increase their respective audiences? Be sure to share some of your thoughts below! Also, be sure to click here if you want to read some more news on the start of season 3 production.

Photo: ABC