Other options, Tivo / Octopus
Yeah, it would suck to miss out on some of the good US programming. I believe that if you have someone Tivo the programs you want, you can DL it onto your computer now. While not what you're looking for, it might work nicely if you have a high speed connection (and don't want too many programs)
I think there is also an "Octopus" hardware / software package that will let you view (via computer) what is on your TV or Tivo. (You'd have to have the hardware hooked up at a friends, or your home in the US) Doesn't look like a HQ connection, though.
Alternative for Getting US TV While Overseas
CompUSA is selling a $250 gadget called a Media Slingbox which will transfer your US cable / satellite / TiVO programming to your computer, anywhere in the world. May be worth checking out.
[url=http://www.compusa.com/products/product_info.asp?product_code=329231&pfp=SEARCH]Slingbox[/url]