Published: May 14, 2008 06:56 am         

‘Christine,’ ‘How I Met Your Mother’ back on CBS

NEW YORK — CBS has given a new lease on life to Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ comedy “The New Adventures of Old Christine” and, perhaps thanks to Britney Spears, the sitcom “How I Met Your Mother.”

They were among four series considered on the bubble for renewal that CBS informed producers will be back next season, according to a Hollywood executive who is familiar with CBS’ planning and spoke on condition of anonymity to avoid pre-empting a public announcement.

CBS announces its fall programming plans to reporters and advertisers on Wednesday.

The network has announced pick-ups for five returning comedies and two new ones, suggesting it is likely that it will bring laughs to a new night on the schedule in the fall. CBS has concentrated four sitcoms on its Monday night schedule for the past couple of years.

Louis-Dreyfus won an Emmy award for her role as a divorcee who was traded in for a younger wife on “Christine.” Despite the acclaim, the show’s ratings had not been enough to guarantee success.

“How I Met Your Mother” was boosted by two guest appearances by the troubled pop singer this spring, a role she is reprising.

CBS has also renewed the comedy “Rules of Engagement” and the drama “The Unit.”