Welcome TV fans! This is the new home for Tube Talk, the place for TV show reviews, celebrity interviews, news & scoop. E-mail Tube Talk Girl at jenbiller@frontier.com or reach her by mail at RR 3 Box 155, Bridgeport, WV 26330.
This past Tuesday night General Hospital’sNightshift returned for its second season on SOAPnet. Yay! I for one loved the first season of the soap’s spin-off.
OK, there were some major continuity issues with this show and the daytime drama last year. (Jason’s in jail on one and Jason’s mopping floors on the other). But I loved how Nightshift went back to its GH roots and was all about the hospital and the doctors who work there. It certainly didn’t waste any time because within the first ten minutes of the premiere a car crashed into the ER, someone died, and an old face came back to town.
When a car crashed into the emergency room causing a pregnant Robin to be knocked unconscious and several others to be injured, it was up to Patrick and the others to go into damage control. How quick it was for them to get rid of Dr. Ford. One minute he passed out from blood loss and the next Patrick is giving a eulogy-esque speech to the employees at the hospital. I know that they probably wanted to get rid of his character to make room for Patrick to become the new Chief of Staff. But I felt like it was a little rushed for a character that has been on both the spin-off and GH for a while now.
While Robin reluctantly took a day off from work to recover, Jagger Cates, played by the always-adorable Antonio Sabato Jr., returned after a 13-year-absence from the show. I loved his and Patrick’s first encounter. Thinking that it’s Robin in the shower, Patrick continues to talk to her from her living room, only to discover a half naked Jagger coming out of her bathroom. Awkward for him; great for us! Poor Patrick was caught off guard and his insecurity was seeping through. I laughed out loud at his line about being grateful that Jagger wasn’t a burglar or he would have had to mess him up.
In the last five minutes of this week’s episode, Jagger showed up at Robin’s place with his son Stone, named after his late younger brother and Robin’s first love. As we saw in the preview for next week, Robin suspects that there may be something wrong with Stone. I guess we’ll have to wait and see on that one. I’m curious to see what it will turn out to be.
Last season the Pink Nurses were the new kids on the block, but this year it’s two young residents who are trying to fit in. Newbies Kyle and Claire are trying to make it through their residency without being yelled at by an arrogant Dr. Julian. Speaking of Leo, why did the original actor leave? Why is this character suddenly an uptight jerk? I didn’t quite understand why he was so nasty toward the young residents. His character was never that mean before. It was like he was channeling Eriq LaSalle’sDr. Benton from ER. Then it was revealed that good ol’ Kyle is actually Leo’s brother. Yeah, I didn’t see that one coming.
All in all I will definitely be keeping up with this show throughout the summer. With the promise of Robert Scorpio to return it can only get better from here. Plus, if you love Patrick’s Jason Thompson as much as I do, then it’s a must see.
Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday
I know it’s been slow here during the last week and for that I’m sorry. I haven’t blogged about the Emmy noms, Comic Con, casting scoop and a million other topics I normally would have weighed in on.
But, I have a pretty good excuse. As many of you know, we were expecting our first child in mid-August. Well, as they say, the best-laid plans sometimes go awry. I was hospitalized on June 30 and stayed for two weeks due to some complications. Our little bundle had to make an emergency appearance early and was born on July 9.
The newest addition to the Tube Talk family is Parker Donovan Biller. He weighed in at 3 pounds 15 ounces and 17 inches long. He’s beautiful, if I do say so myself, with lots of black hair and adorable tiny hands and feet. We’re doing well and we were finally released from the hospital. That said, we’ve only been home a few days and I’m trying to get adjusted to no sleep, recovering from major surgery, and having a newborn in the house.
So, I’m hoping you’ll cut me some slack here during this transition, as I try to maneuver the new world of motherhood and balancing work and baby care.
Thanks to all of you for your continued loyalty and support.
Photo: CW, actor Jackson Brundage of One Tree Hill
by Ashley Gouveia
One of the most important elements in any good TV show is the acting performances. Sure, we’ve got Patrick Dempsey, Tina Fey and Steve Carell just to name a few. But sometimes, some of the most appealing and endearing performances come from the tiny young actors every week. In honor of our very own Tube Talk Girl’s little bambino, (Congrats Jen!), I decided to name my favorites of the cutest and talented kids of the small screen.
Mark Indelicato, Ugly Betty: He plays Betty’s fashion-obsessed nephew who always has a quick fashion tip or Broadway song to give at any moment. This character could have easily have been one of those that you fast forward whenever they appear on the screen. But with Mark Indelicato’s always hysterical portrayal he is not to be missed. I consider the character of Justin to be as entertaining as Marc and Amanda. Put the three of them together and you’ve struck TV gold. We saw a serious side to Justin when dealing with his father’s death this past season. He’s funny, adorable, and has really come into his own.
Favorite Justin Moment: In season one, when Justin, Hilda and Santos are stuck on the subway on their way to see Broadway’s Hairspray, Justin decides to reenact the first act. He started it off with his own rendition of Good Morning Baltimore.
Noah Gray-Cabey, Heroes: Micah Sanders has what every kid his age dreams about; a superpower. Not only is he super powered but so are his parents. They’re like The Incredibles but less animated. Noah has that face that you just feel so bad for him. He doesn’t even have to say a word and you wish that Nikki would finally get herself together, literally and figuratively. What I love about Micah and Noah’s portrayal of him is how he’s so innocent. When anyone else with his abilities would be freaking out, he thinks it’s the coolest thing since sliced bread. It’s like he’s a superhero in one of his favorite comic books. Who wouldn’t love that?
Favorite Micah Moment: Using his machine-manipulating powers, Micah cashes out and takes all the money in the ATM machine.
Jackson Brundage, One Tree Hill: Could this kid get any cuter? Little Jamie Scott, played by the incredibly adorable Jackson Brundage, could literally carry an episode just with his cuteness. Plus, he’s such a good actor for his young age. Like Noah Gray-Cabey, whenever he makes a sad face you can’t help but go “aww!” Then he delivers his lines flawlessly. I’ve even read that his fellow cast mates have to sometimes rely on Jackson when they flub on their lines. During this past season of One Tree Hill he has had some of the most memorable lines.
Favorite Jamie Moment:
Brooke: (rubs head) “Have you ever had a wine hangover?”
Jamie: “I have a fluffy-eared bunny named Chester.”
Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday
Photo credit: NBC, Gaius Charles (Smash Williams) and Scott Porter (Jason Street)
I didn’t see this coming.
Smash Williams and Jason Street won’t be regular characters on Friday Night Lights this season.
Gaius Charles (Smash) and Scott Porter (Jason) have been taken off contract and will appear only as recurring characters, according to Michael Ausiello at Entertainment Weekly.
I’m a little nervous about these changes. Smash and his ego certainly kept things hopping in Dillon, and Jason has been the heart of the show since its inception. What do you think, Tubers? Will FNL be the same without two of its original Panthers?
The genius who brought us one of television’s best musicals, Buffy the Vampire Slayer’s Once More With Feeling, is bringing a new musical to a computer screen near you.
Yes, I said computer screen.
Whedon has masterminded a new musical comedy “Internet miniseries event” starring two of my favorite TV guys: Neil Patrick Harris and Nathan Fillion. And I've got a sneak peek for you right here. Just click play below.
The series debuts Tuesday, July 15, with act one, followed by act two, Thursday, July 17th, and act three on Saturday July 19. All acts will stay up until midnight Sunday, July 20th, according to the Dr. Horrible Web site.
The series is free for now and only available on the Internet at this point, but with aspirations to eventually make its way to DVD.
TV Guide’sMatt Roush has seen a sneak peek of the series and is already raving. I’m sure I will be, too.
Is there anything better than a singing Harris and a villainous Fillion? Nope.
Here’s how Whedon described this new project that he apparently got involved in during the writer’s strike:
“The idea was to make it on the fly, on the cheap – but to make it. To turn out a really thrilling, professionalish piece of entertainment specifically for the Internet, another way,” Whedon said. “To give the public (and in particular you guys) something for all your support and patience. And to make a lot of silly jokes. Actually, that sentence probably should have come first.” I hope Whedon is ready for the onslaught of hits his Web site is about to get on July 15. Seriously, it’s been years, and I still can’t get his last musical effort out of my mind. “Life’s a show and we all play a part…”
You know her as chatty Kelly Kapoor of The Office, and now fans have a chance to meet her and participate in an all-out day of Office fun in Scranton, Pennsylvania July 19.
Actress Mindy Kaling will join fans in Scranton, as Dunder Mifflin's hometown becomes the first city to offer the new "The Office" DVD Board Game and "The Office" Trivia Game by Pressman Toy.
From a beet-eating contest that would make Dwight red with envy, to character look-alike contests and a 2K fun run, the event looks like a fun-filled day.
In addition to marking the official debut of the two games, "The Office" games launch will raise funds for United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC), a Scranton-based charity that provides services and creates opportunities which empower individuals and builds strong interdependent communities throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.
There's no better place than Scranton to serve as the springboard for our new games based on 'The Office,'" said Pressman Toy President Jim Pressman. "We're excited to bring Ms. Kaling and 'The Office' games to the home of Dunder Mifflin."
"Scranton is honored to have been selected as the first city in America whose retailers will stock 'The Office' Trivia Game and DVD Board Game," said Scranton Mayor Christopher Doherty. "We'll be rolling out the beet red carpet for Ms. Kaling."
"I have been to Scranton before and am really excited to return for this fun event!" Kaling said.
Here is the official schedule of all the events and a quick description of the new DVD/board games of The Office, according to the press release from NBC.
"The Office Games" July 19th line-up includes:
9:00 a.m. – 2K Fun Run Wear your favorite office attire! Prizes for best dressed, best character look-a-likes and fastest.
10:30 a.m. – "The Office" Trivia Challenge Are you an "Assistant to the Regional Manager" or the "Regional Manager" when it comes to "The Office" trivia? The Challenge will feature questions from "The Office" Trivia Game.
12:00 p.m. – Beet Eating Contest Straight from Dwight's farm…well, after being canned.
1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. – Autograph Session The first 125 customers who purchase "The Office" DVD Board Game or "The Office" Trivia Game at Boscov's at The Mall at Steamtown in Scranton, PA, on July 19 will be able meet Mindy Kaling and have her autograph their game.
"The Office" DVD Board Game "The Office" DVD Board Game from Pressman Toy combines video on DVD from America's funniest television sitcom NBC's "The Office" with a companion game board allowing fans to interact with their favorite characters and put their show knowledge to the test. Players go head-to-head answering trivia questions based on video clips, images and facts from "The Office" using their DVD remote control and moving around the game board. Trivia Spaces test players' knowledge. Challenge spaces let players collect other players' Schrute bucks. Clerical spaces test players' speed, skill and resourcefulness. Michael Cards can help or hinder their path. The first player to collect $1.00 in Schrute bucks wins. Game play is different every time. For 2-4 adult players; Suggested retail price: $30; Available summer 2008 at major retailers nationwide.
"The Office" Trivia Game Fans of NBC's Emmy and Peabody Award-winning-sitcom "The Office" can test their show knowledge with Pressman Toy's The Office Trivia Game. Players move around the office walking cubicle to cubicle answering trivia questions and visiting favorite Dunder Mifflin characters' cubes. They must beware of Scranton Regional Manager Michael Scott showing up on the game die and moving into their cubicle – players must answer a trivia question about the socially awkward boss before they can move on. The player who successfully gets through all the locations and collects the all-important "Support the Rabid" wristband wins. For 2 to 6 adult players; Suggested retail price: $25; Available summer 2008 at major retailers nationwide.
If you’re going through TheOffice withdrawal as much as I am, then take a minute to watch the video clip below of “Kevin’s Loan.” It’s a hoot.
In the Webisode, Kevin (Brian Baumgartner) pursues a unique solution in an effort to pay back his looming gambling debts. And wait until you see Craig Robinson’s Darryl in this clip. He may just usurp Stanley this season as my new favorite supporting character. Seriously, that voice could melt butter.
This installment also stars Oscar Nunez and Leslie David Baker.
Yes, the same Shannen Doherty who feuded with cast mates and showed up late so many times that Aaron Spelling released her from the original Beverly Hills 90210. It appears old wounds have healed, and she’ll appear in the 90210 remake on the CW this fall, according to E! Online’sWatch With Kristin.
Of all the former Beverly Hills 90210 stars, Doherty is the one I least expected to be involved in the upcoming remake of the show. Her red-dress fight with Jennie Garth and numerous other scuffles with Jason Priestley, Luke Perry and other cast mates were popular Hollywood topics during the show’s heyday.
It’s unclear how many episodes Doherty will be involved in.
In related news, Tori Spelling won’t appear in the season premiere, due to personal reasons, E!Online is reporting. She is a new mom and apparently isn’t quite ready to return to work yet.
As for other former cast member, Luke Perry, who played popular Dylan Walsh, he has said he won’t do the show.
I was never a big fan of Brenda or Donna, so this news doesn’t excite me much. The only characters I really care to see resurrected are Kelly Taylor, Steve Sanders, Brandon Walsh, Andrea, and Nat. And I hope there’s plenty of screen time for cuties Lori Loughlin and Rob Estes, who are playing the parental units on this new remake.
Here's what the Web's top bloggers are discussing this week in the TV Blog Coalition, of which Tube Talk is a proud member.
With the Emmy nomination shortlists out for the comedy and drama series categories, Buzz wondered which five shows would make your ballot. (BuzzSugar)
This week, Sandie shared her interview with Kyra Sedgwick from TNT's The Closer. (Daemon's TV)
In this week's TV Talk podcast we talk about our recent turnaround on Swingtown, what BSG's Tricia Helfer is up to, a preview of our upcoming trip to Comic Con and our first impressions of the upcoming Fringe. (Give Me My Remote)
Plattie reviewed the BBC's search for the nation's top disabled model. No, really. Britain's Missing Top Model is an actual show. We're not making this up. (Pop Vultures)
While meeting Dulé Hill last week, Rae learned a little of what to expect for the upcoming third season of Psych and which of Gus' nicknames is actually the given name of one of Dulé's aunts. (RTVW)
A little bit of everything on the 9th Green, from video recaps of the previous seasons of The Closer and Saving Grace, premiere dates for Stargate Atlantis and Scare Tactics, to a list of the thirteen up and coming stars most likely to get you a visit with Chris Hansen. (Scooter McGavin's 9th Green)
Vance celebrated Canada Day with a shout out to all our favourite Canadians on our favourite TV shows. (Tapeworthy)
Jace returned from his honeymoon to review the disappointing botched pilot for FOX's supernatural drama The Oaks, which he had been looking forward to after reading the script last summer. (Televisionary)
While he's always happy to host giveaways on TiFaux, Dan had an ugly flashback to his history as an awkward teen as he introduced a new contest for an X-Files compilation DVD. Click the link to enter! (TiFaux)
M*A*S*H’s Alan Alda (Hawykeye) and Wayne Rogers (Trapper) reunited for an interview, and Jennifer was excited to share the video of the event. Among some of the topics covered, was the fact that M*A*S*H and The West Wing, were both recently chosen as two of the top ten smartest TV shows of all time by the chair of MENSA. (Tube Talk.)
In place of genuine TV scoop, the TV Addict stalks TORCHWOOD star John Barrowman (the TV Addict)
Before the new seasons of Saving Grace and The Closer kick off on Monday, July 14, you may need a refresher of what happened in past seasons. I know I do.
Frankly, it seems like ages since we’ve seen these tough gals on the tube.
So, those of you who are fans of the show, or perhaps those of you who’ve never even watched an episode, check out the rapid recaps below.
Season four of The Closer premieres on July 14 at 9 p.m. ET, and Season two of Saving Grace premieres right after at 10 p.m. ET.
M*A*S*H fans who missed the reunion/interview yesterday between Alan Alda (Hawkeye) and Wayne Rogers (Trapper), I’ve got you covered.
Here is the video from the reunion. Those of you who just found M*A*S*H on TV Land and are new viewers, be warned. Hawkeye and Trapper look a little different these days!
Sorry this is such short notice, but today at 4 p.m. ETM*A*S*H fans should get to their TVs quickly.
Alan Alda (Hawkeye) and Wayne Rogers (Trapper) will be reuniting on FOX Business Network’s America’s Nightly Scoreboard.
Rogers, now known for his expertise in the stock and real estate markets as head of Wayne Rogers & Co., a stocks trade investment corporation, will interview his former M*A*S*H co-star Alda. He is promoting a new film, opening Friday, called Diminished Capacity, starring Matthew Broderick. Apparently, it’s been sometime since the two have spoken.
I’m blogging today from the hospital (more on that later) so I won’t be able to catch the interview, but I hope someone, somewhere can give me a recap. As loyal Tube Talk readers know, M*A*S*H remains one of my favorite TV shows of all time. Enjoy!
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You know her as chatty Kelly Kapoor of The Office, and now fans have a chance to meet her and participate in an all-out day of Office fun in Scranton, Pennsylvania July 19.
