The FCC approved the deal between Comcast and NBC today, and the Justice Department almost immediately followed suit. The whole thing could be finalized by the end of January.

What does that mean? Read more here at The New York Times. 

Great news, TV fans! You get free Showtime this weekend! Well, that is, unless you're a Time Warner Cable or AT&T U-Verse customer. If you are, you'll have to occupy yourself this weekend with hating all your DirecTV and Comcast friends.

The free preview began today and according to Showtime reps, it was up to individual providers as to whether or not to carry the free preview. Locally, DirecTV, Comcast, and Suddenlink are carrying the preview.

I'm totally jealous. Showtime has some great shows, but this weekend is a big one for them because they have two very good new series debuting Sunday night ("Shameless" and "Episodes"). I'm guessing Showtime hopes you'll get hooked on those and subscribe.