Dramedy gets renewed for second season

Lifetime orders more ‘Diva’

“Drop Dead Diva” has legs at Lifetime. The cable channel  has renewed the Sony Pictures TV dramatic comedy  for a second season. Lifetime has ordered 13 episodes to air next year. “Diva” stars Brooke Elliott as a once-shallow aspiring model who is reborn after a car accident as brilliant, plus-size attorney Jane Bingum. The series performed strong out of the gate for the cable channel in its debut in July. “Diva” has averaged 2.6 million viewers in its Sunday 9 p.m. timeslot, and in its most recent airing Sunday, it hit a best-yet audience of more than 3 million viewers. “Diva’s” ascent has helped boost the audience  for its 10 p.m. companion drama “Army Wives,” making both shows more valuable to Lifetime. ” ‘Drop Dead Diva’ is one of those rare gems that has charmed both viewers and critics,” said Lifetime entertainment executive vice president  JoAnn Alfano. “Brooke is a unique talent who has a wonderful career ahead of her.” The series was created by drama veteran  Josh Berman, who executive  produces with Craig ZadanNeil MeronAlex Taub and David Petrarca.  Margaret Cho co-stars as Bingum’s loyal assistant. “Diva” has drawn a long list of guest stars in its freshman  season, including Paula Abdul, Rosie O’Donnell, Tim Gunn, Liza MinnelliDelta Burke and Nia Vardalos. ‘Drop Dead Diva’ is produced in Peachtree City, Georgia.