The source with knowledge of the talks said Simmons would gain both a television show on HBO and an online home for columns and other content.

The online column would be new territory for HBO. But it’s a logical addition now that the cable service is seeking Internet subscribers for the first time.

The source spoke on condition of anonymity because the talks are sensitive. HBO is declining to comment. (HBO is owned by Time Warner (TWX), which is also the parent company of this web site.)

The talks spilled into public view through a Hollywood Reporter cover story about HBO that was published on Wednesday.

Got the drop at CNN Money . . .