VH1 continues to ramp up new programming

VH1 is ramping up its programming slate with shows that cover the gamut from dating to dying.

Cabler has been extremely busy of late. In first quarter 2010, net is launching nine new series.

Half-hour “Transform Me,” from Left/Right Inc., taps into the makeover genre. Three transgender women assist another woman who’s trying to redo her style and clothing choices, as well as her mental outlook on life. Eight episodes have ordered and skein will debut March 15.

A look at the most shocking deaths in pop culture and music is the premise behind VH1-produced “Famous Crime Scene.” Subjects include Tupac Shakur, Biggie Smalls, John Lennon, Anna Nicole Smith, Selena, Marvin Gaye and Michael Jackson.

Seven half-hour episodes have been ordered and will launch Feb. 12.

“Undateable,” also from VH1, will be presented as five one-hour specials airing on consecutive nights beginning April 19. Project is based on the upcoming book “Undateable: 311 Things Guys Do That Guarantee They Won’t Be Dating or Having Sex,” written by Ellen Rakieten and Anne Coyle.

And in a program acquisition, cabler has picked up MTV Canada series “Peak Season: Vancouver” as a tie-in with the upcoming Winter Olympics. Docudrama skein will examine those who work and play at the nearby Whistler ski resort.

Half-hour show is from shingle Den of Thieves and launches Feb. 14, two days after the Vancouver Games have begun. Series will run for 10 weeks.

“This is all part of our ongoing strategy,” said Jeff Olde, exec VP of original programming and production. “We’ve been undergoing an evolution and want to mix things up for our audience, which wants to be connected to pop culture.”

Net saw good traction with Jan. 11 debut of former “American Idol” champ Fantasia Barrino series “Fantasia for Real” (photo above), which airs at 10 p.m. Mondays.

Also, gameshow “Don’t Forget the Lyrics” is set to begin in the fall. Skein will be hosted by Sugar Ray frontman and former “Extra” co-host Mark McGrath.