MacGuffin, it is common for the first few shows to be on DVD for preview people to review them, so I think that is how they got out.

It's amazing how these shows are showing up "online" even before they air. I, of course, would never download an episode.

This really shows how much the entertainment landscape has changed. The idea of watching a show any time, any where has become a reality, just not yet for the mainstream. Once broadcasters find a way to monetize this and a better distribution method, watch out!

Stupid comments never work for me, just ignore one of the comments or delete one if you can. :)

Californication is a miniseries? Never knew that. But I think it will be a series of mini-series. Showtime has that American terrorists or whatever it's called that was a mini-series but then there was a second mini-series. I doubt they will end if if the show gets good ratings.

Californication is a mini-series? i think that is just a cover. There is going to be 12 parts, that's longer than season one of Weeds. I'm sure if the ratings are good they will order another "mini-series", like they did with that terrorist show.

What a great show. Kind of sucks that I am 4 episodes ahead. Now I will have to wait till show 5.

damn, only got the first 3. now that i have 'authorization' i'll go get the 4th. theres no way i would have watched californication had i not downloaded the first episode. now i can't wait. sad its only a mini-series.

Definitely seen Parker's dance. And while it seemed out of place storywise, I certainly enjoyed it.

I really liked Reaper (though they need to work on the CGI, which I'm sure they will), as well as Chuck and Sarah Connor. Unfortunately, I have a horrible track record with new shows; every one I really like gets axed cause it doesn't have mainstream appeal. And while I generally tend to dislike the mainstream, it does keep shows on TV. God save us from reality TV.

hub I'm doing the same thing with the fall previews. I have downloaded several shows and watched The Sarah Conner show and Reaper, both very entertaining shows. Too bad both will be treated like trash. i have not watched Pushing Daisies yet, but I have downloaded it. I think the networks should release the pilots to new shows to see if people are interested or to gather viewers.

Have you watched the "new" Weeds episode yet hub? Mary Louise Parker, who is wonderful, does a dirty dance on a pool table. :)

4 episodes out of a 10-13 episode season is good way to get people interested. If they do get hooked, they'll want to get Showtime...if not, then there's no loss.

Unfortunately (or fortunately for some ;) ), the people who can download the first 4 leaked episodes can easily download the rest of the episodes without paying a single penny...so I don't really know how it helps Showtime a lot...instead of "leaking" the episodes, they should have released them for free on iTunes, since it attracts the mainstream.