Virtuality's pilot jumps forward to 26 June

Virtuality's two-hour pilot is being moved forward from the wasteland of 4 July for broadcast on 26 June. Is this a promising sign that Fox are testing the water and interested to see what the reaction will be to the sci-fi drama? Virtuality hasn't been picked up for a full series by Fox (so they're essentially using it to plug a few hours in their summer schedule as a "Fox Movie Of The Week" special) -- but, while the pilot was guaranteed dismal ratings when broadcast on Independence Day, it now stands a chance of being a sizeable hit.

Would impressive ratings persuade Fox to change their mind and let creators Ronald D. Moore (Battlestar Galactica) and Michael Taylor (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine) bring Virtuality to our screens more permanently? Moore is going to be busy with Battlestar Galactica prequel Caprica next year, so... maybe even that's wishful thinking?

For those unaware of Virtuality, you can read my previous posts about the pilot here and here. A selection of great photos have also been released, available on HitFix here. I will certainly be reviewing the pilot whenever it airs. And again, I urge American readers to keep an eye on Fox's schedule and support Virtuality when it's on.