Are You Ready for Summer (TV)?

Hi, my name is Amy, and I’m addicted to summer television. (I think admitting you have a problem is the first step. Am I right?) I will miss the Dunphys and Graysons, but for me, it’s the most wonderful time of the year in television – the summer season.

Growing up, season finales ended in May, and the summer was filled with re-runs. Today, between cable networks and reality TV there is an abundance of “original” programming throughout the entire year. In addition to permeating the airwaves, many of these shows also infiltrate the social space as well – keeping audiences connected and engaged.

Here’s a recap of some of the programs I’ll be tuned in to (OK – I will also be doing some beach reading, as well):

Big Brother

Although BB doesn’t allow house guests access to the outside world, it has a lot of fans engaging with its social media channels. The Facebook page has over 2.5 million likes, and the show’s website keeps active forums during the duration of the show. Also, ultimate fans can subscribe to a live web feed to watch the contestants throughout the week. It will be interesting to see how the show competes with ABC’s The Glass House which will allow guests to vote and determine outcomes in the show via social networks.

Olympics

In addition to watching the 2012 Games, you can keep up with your favorite athletes with the Olympics Atheletes’ Hub. The hub consolidates verified athletes’ Facebook and Twitter activities for you. There are also cool interactive games. Currently, they are promoting a contest, I Copy U Contest, where you pick your favorite athlete in a memorable photo (the pics are pre-selected for you), mimic the photo and tweet your image for others to view and vote for their favorite.

Girls (@GIRLSHBO)

The first season is almost over, but the characters are completely connected (Hannah taught me how to drop a pin) so I’m hoping that the Girls take the advice from Mark Drapeau and engage in social media during their break.

True Blood (@truebloodHBO)

Admittedly, I haven’t watched True Blood, but based on friends’ activity and excitement in my social media streams, I know it’s got a huge following. And that makes me curious. Currently, the show is offering a Makers Day app on Facebook that allows you to thank the person that got you addicted to the show. Also, it just did a Twitter contest where 100,000 fans used a #MakersDay hashtag to “unlock”  a season 5 script.

What shows will you be watching over the summer?  What are some of the best social media integrations you’ve seen?