Computing devices capable of internetworking and receiving, storing and
viewing programmed (scheduled) television and multimedia content provide
a platform for access to a combination of Internet and Television content
and services. On this platform, a mix of pre-scripted and live
interactive dialog (chat with offered responses) are broadcast by a
connected server or servers to provide supplemental entertainment,
information regarding programmed content, enhancements to scheduled
television advertising, a community experience, and an interface to
Internet applications and services. The dialog provides a "Social
Interface" allowing fictional and non-fictional characters to interact
with viewers. The fictional and non-fictional characters are each
emblematic of a specific affinity group categorization, which a user
personally identifies with and is drawn to. Selection of an affinity
character also provides a filter for selecting internet and broadcast
content associated with that character. Second level content is also
associated with and mediated by each character. This provides e-commerce
opportunities whereby sponsors can direct advertising content based upon
factors such as the relative popularity of each character or the
demographic group associated with each character.