‘Seinfeld’ Pals Might Sign 2-Year Pacts

The three supporting actors on “Seinfeld” have indicated a willingness to consider two-year deals to continue on the top-rated NBC comedy series, sources said.

A two-year agreement would secure a key prime-time anchor for NBC. “Seinfeld,” one of most profitable shows on television, charging $1 million per minute of advertising, provides a vital platform to promote NBC programming to more than 30 million viewers each week.

Jason Alexander, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Michael Richards--the program’s co-stars--have been at an impasse over contracts for next season.

The program’s star and co-creator, Jerry Seinfeld, previously signed for one more season. With the other actors in tow, NBC hopes that Seinfeld would be willing to extend that commitment.

The parties, however, remain far apart on terms and there has been little movement toward finalizing a deal. The three actors initially sought $1 million per episode next season, rivaling what Seinfeld is expected to receive. NBC’s last offer was less than a third of that, or about $7 million for the year.

The network is working against a May 12 deadline, when NBC will announce its prime-time lineup for next season. Those involved in the discussions declined comment.