All rise: Judge Judy’s syndicated court program “Hot Bench” has been renewed for a second season and is being upgraded in seven markets starting in March.
The markets upgrading “Hot Bench” — beginning on Monday, March 30, 2015, through the 2015-2016 season — are the following CBS-owned affiliates: WCBS, New York at 9 a.m. (No. 1); KCBS, Los Angeles at 2 p.m. (No. 2); WBBM, Chicago at 2 p.m. (No. 3); KTVT, Dallas at 2 p.m. (No. 5); WBZ, Boston at 9 a.m. (No. 7); WFOR, Miami at 9 a.m. (No. 16); and KCNC, Denver at 3 p.m. (No. 17).
“Hot Bench” is executive produced by Randy Douthit, who currently serves as executive producer and director of “Judge Judy,” and Maureen FitzPatrick. The half-hour strip is produced by CBS Television Distribution and Queen Bee Productions. It is distributed by CBS Television Distribution.
The program features a panel of three judges — Patricia DiMango, Tanya Acker and Larry Bakman — hearing court cases, arguing the merits of the case amongst themselves and coming to a verdict.
The show has been a success on the Nielsen sheets, the renewal announcement’s press release boasted. “Hot Bench” is the top new first-run syndicated strip of the season, averaging a 1.5 HH rating and 2 million viewers, according to Live + Same Day ratings, season to date.
“I’m gratified that viewers have embraced ‘Hot Bench,’” Creator Judge Judge Sheindlin said on Thursday. “I came up with the idea on a trip to Ireland last year with my husband and we observed a three-judge bench and found the process fascinating. I’m glad the viewers agree!”