Short Takes

By VARIETY STAFF

Fox Broadcasting Co. will for the first time broadcast a presidential State of the Union address Feb. 17, although on a delayed basis at 11:30 p.m. ET.

The annual speech to Congress will air live at 9 p.m. ET on the other networks.

Samuel Goldwyn Television's "American Gladiators" has been picked up for a fifth season in 70% of the country covering 25 of the top 30 markets, including WNYW, New York; KCAL, Los Angeles; WPWR, Chicago; KXAS, Dallas; and KPRC, Houston.

"HBO Comedy Hour: Dennis Miller Live From Washington, D.C. -- They Shoot HBO Specials, Don't They," the comedian's third solo spec for the cabler, airs March 27 at 9:30 p.m. ET.