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NEW YORK (Reuters) - Fox Broadcasting Co. on Thursday rolled out a fall television schedule that adds a science-fiction thriller from one of TV’s hottest producers and a workplace comedy to a lineup that is already tops with viewers.

Among the major broadcast networks, the News Corp unit is leading the pack in ratings, finishing out a season as the most watched network — both overall and with younger viewers — thanks to its blockbuster “American Idol.”

Supporting “American Idol” is a roster filled with hits like “House” and “Bones,” not to mention the countdown espionage thriller “24,” set to return after its current season was thwarted by the screenwriters’ strike.

With a lineup that strong and a development season that was abbreviated by the 14-week strike, Fox decided to add just two new shows this fall.

“We looked at our schedule and thought we don’t need a lot, and the good news is we got what we need,” said Fox Entertainment President Kevin Reilly.

Fox is making a big promotional push with “Fringe,” a new sci-fi drama from J.J. Abrams, the force behind the popular castaway thriller “Lost” on Walt Disney Co’s ABC. His credits also include past audience favorites “Alias” and “Felicity.”

“There are high expectations for this,” Reilly said. “The guy delivers on those expectations.”

“Fringe,” a thriller about three characters who uncover a mystery they fear is part of a large and terrifying pattern, will be paired Tuesday nights with medical drama “House” and run with half the normal commercial minutes and promo time. 

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