But the real synergy lies in the constant inclusion of other NBC texts and platforms. Liz’s ex-boyfriend is seen on Dateline NBC: To Catch a Predator. Jenna confuses Osama bin Laden and then senator Barack Obama on MSNBC’s Hardball with Chris Matthews. Tracy tries to stab Conan O’Brien on Late Night. Jack has an alter-ego named Generalissimo on a Mexican soap opera airing on Telemundo, the world’s second largest Spanish-language network, which Jack is trying to acquire (as the real GE did in 2002).

Andrew deWaard, Derivative Media, loc. 387