Over the last several years, Showtime has developed original programming in the same vein as HBO (edgy content in compact seasons), only the network doesn’t get nearly as much publicity.

I can heartily endorse three Showtime series that are now out on DVD, making them a great option for those waiting for the traditional fall season to start. “Weeds” stars the ever-sexy Mary Louise-Parker as Nancy, a suburban widow forced to sell marijuana in order to keep up her family’s lifestyle. Kevin Nealon and Elizabeth Perkins co-star as residents in her tract-housing neighborhood. The show is reminiscent of “American Beauty,” only funnier, and with a lot more cannabis. Justin Kirk is hilarious as Andy, Nancy’s irresponsible brother-in-law.

“Dexter” is a cop show unlike any other. No procedures, just the title character (played by Michael C. Hall, formerly of “Six Feet Under”), who is – get this – a serial killer who only kills serial killers. Over the course of the first season, we learn about how Dexter was “born,” and dive deep into his past as he wrestles with his demons. It’s a compelling and unique take on the crime drama.

Fans of “The Wire” or “The Black Donnellys” should check out “Brotherhood,” the story of two Irish brothers on the opposite side of the law in Providence, Rhode Island. One is an influential state congressman, while the other is moving up in organized crime. As the first season wears on, their lives become more and more intertwined. Most of the members of the fine ensemble cast aren’t well known, but the lovely Annabeth Gish plays the unhappy and secretive wife of the congressman.

Lastly, “The Tudors” (which just wrapped the first season and is not yet out on DVD) stars Jonathan Rhys Meyers as a young King Henry VIII who tries to extract himself from his marriage (in order to be with his love, Anne Boleyn). Not unike HBO’s “Rome,” the first season shows how the personal lives of royalty and politicians can affect the course of a country. The ensemble cast is anchored by Sam Neill, who portrays the powerful and ambitious Cardinal Thomas Wolsey. By the end of the season, I was scouring Wikipedia for information about the characters; it’s not a bad way to learn a bit of history.

August 13th is the premiere of the promising “Californication,” a dramedy that stars David Duchovny as a single writer who must balance his career with his daughter, his ex-wife and his appetite for beautiful women.

They say you can’t outfox a fox, but with HBO staples “The Sopranos,” “Six Feet Under,” “Deadwood” and “Rome” going off the air, and “The Wire” soon to follow, Showtime just might be out-HBO’ing HBO.

It’s not TV. It’s Showtime.