FCC Approves NBCU-Comcast Merger, Syfy Renews 'Sanctuary' and More

The FCC has approved the merger of NBC Universal and Kabletown Comcast after year-long reviews of the matter.

According to Variety, the combination was passed with a 4-1 vote. Michael Copps, the Democratic commissioner, was the dissenting vote.

Concerns over the future of online video prompted Comcast to agree to conditions that aim to prevent anti-competitive harms.

"This is a proud and exciting day for Comcast," Brian Roberts, chairman and CEO of Comcast, said. "Our original vision for the combination remains intact so that consumers will benefit, and our competitors will be treated fairly."

In other TV news ...

• Syfy has renewed 'Sanctuary' for a 13-episode season 4. According to the network, filming starts this spring with an expected fall debut. [Syfy]

• The Brown family from TLC's 'Sister Wives' is on the move. The reality family has moved to Nevada to pursue new opportunities. [E! Online]

• 'Skins' debuted to 3.3. million viewers. A decent start, but nowhere near 'Jersey Shore' numbers. [Entertainment Weekly]

• In other ratings news, 'Piers Morgan Tonight' bowed to 2.1 million viewers. The final episode of 'Larry King Live' was seen by 2.2 million. [Deadline Hollywood]

• The finale of 'Hannah Montana' was seen by more than 6 million viewers. The Disney Channel series starring Miley Cyrus ended its five-year run pulling with 6.2 million viewers. [TVLine]

• NBC's 'Harry's Law' starring Kathy Bates was seen by 11 million viewers, beating CBS's 'Hawaii Five-0' in total viewers. However, 'Hawaii Five-0' grabbed 2.9 million in the 18-49 demo, 'Harry's Law' had a 2.1 share. [Hollywood Reporter]

• 'Being Human' debuted to a total of 3.8 million viewers after three consecutive airings. The original telecast at 9PM was seen by 1.961 million viewers. [TVOverMind]

• 'Parks and Recreation' and 'Eastbound & Down' have been added to the Paley Television Festival. Other shows include 'Freaks & Geeks,' 'True Blood,' 'The Walking Dead' and 'Supernatural.' [Variety]