Why networks really renew TV shows so early

When networks order another season of a TV show after one, two, or even no episodes have aired, they're taking a risk. Yet it's become a surprisingly popular practice recently.

Starz, for example, just renewed "Ash vs Evil Dead" for a second season ahead of the series' premiere. The pay network is probably hoping that the renewal will be seen as a vote of confidence for the show based on cult favorite "Evil Dead," and that viewers will tune in as a result. With the premiere coming up this weekend, its also seems like a last-minute (and free) marketing push.

And surely the network's executives are hoping that the decision won't come back to haunt them later. Because sometimes, it does. Anyone remember Fox's multiple-season renewal for "Glee"?

Here's what networks are really saying when they give early renewals: