Tube Talk

Tube Talk on hiatus

2009-08-19T06:32:00.000-07:00

Photo: Parker Donovan Biller

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Hello, Tubers. Long time, no talk.

To say it’s been slow here for the past year is like saying Grey’s Anatomy has no behind-the-scenes drama. (Have you heard the latest about Eric Dane’s naughty video? Tsk. Tsk.)

I’m sorry I haven’t blogged much during the past year, but as some of you know my personal life has taken a dramatic turn that has left me with little time to watch television, let alone write about it.

My days are now spent changing diapers, singing songs, dancing silly, reading stories, building forts, chasing bubbles, exploring the outdoors and, well, smooching the most adorable blue-eyed blonde since Brad Pitt. (See the above photo for evidence.)

I’ve tried to keep Tube Talk up and running, thinking that tomorrow I’ll have time to write a witty column or review one of the new fall shows. But sadly, when tomorrow comes, that time never becomes a reality. So, I’ve decided to put Tube Talk on hiatus until my little one gets a bit older, and I will actually have time to watch and discuss television again.

During Tube Talk’s most fruitful years, I spent 8-10 hours per day reviewing shows, doing interviews and research, and writing. I simply don’t have that kind of time anymore, or frankly, passion for the genre, considering how disappointing television has become. I pray this fall we’ll see a new Freaks and Geeks, Felicity, The West Wing, Friends, or Seinfeld, but I’m not holding my breath.

I’d like to thank all of my loyal readers who have supported me since the days this column was in print at The Exponent Telegram newspaper for 20,000 readers. Tube Talk was born out of my love for television and grew to be one of the Web’s most popular TV sites, with readers in more than 50 countries all over the world. I just checked my Sitemeter this morning, and people were reading Tube Talk in Austria, France, Spain, Germany, Mexico, Canada, the United Kingdom, Colombia, Ireland, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Turkey, Portugal and more. It still amazes me after all these years. The power of the Internet is incredible. Tube Talk was named one of the Web’s best TV blogs, next to TV Guide, E!Online and Zap2It, and is a proud member of the TV Blog Coalition, a pretty cool accomplishment, considering at the time I had a staff of one - me. (Don’t cue the orchestra yet, please, I have a few more folks to thank.)

First, a big thank you to my dedicated columnist Ashley Gouveia, who has loyally written Commentary with a Co-Ed every Friday for the past couple years, and literally kept the site alive when I was deathly ill during my pregnancy. Next, but certainly not second in any field, is my good friend radio host Jack Logar, at WWLW 106.5. Jack, thank you for making me laugh each Tuesday, when we do our morning-show segment about the latest news in the world of television. You’ll never know how much I appreciate you for being a fellow “geek,“ for your encouragement through the years, and for your impressive SAT vocabulary skills. (Although, you’re still the whitest man I’ve ever met, literally. but you’ve got great hair to go with that albino complexion, so don‘t sweat it.) Also, I’d like to thank Becky and Bethany, who provided some great American Idol commentary through the years here at Tube Talk, and believe it or not, actually got me to watch reality TV for a few hours one year.

Finally, thank you to all the networks that have worked with me through the years by sending screeners, arranging interviews with the stars, and running contests for me here at Tube Talk. FOX, NBC, USA, FX, CW and TNT were especially kind to me when I first started out and did not discriminate because I was a blogger. And thank you to the celebrities who have given me a few minutes of their time to chat. My favorite interviews have been with the Scrubs crew Zach Braff and Bill Lawrence and the Psych boys James Roday and Dule Hill, as well as John Schneider and Kelly Carlson. Thank you all.

As for this fall’s TV crop, I’m excited to see Glee, the new V, Cougartown, and Vampire Diaries, and I may check out Melrose Place just for curiosity’s sake. If I find something I can’t live without on my DVR, don’t worry, I’ll pop on here and tell you all about it. Thanks again, Tubers. Hopefully, we’ll talk again soon.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: New fall shows

2009-08-14T07:09:00.000-07:00

Photo: The Vampire Diaries, CW

by Ashley Gouveia

The new television season is just weeks away and there are so many new shows that are going to be creeping into our primetime lineup. But which ones are worth our Tivo space? I think I have chosen a few picks that have the possibility and potential to be my new favorites.

Flashforward (ABC): When I saw the promo for this new ABC drama, I thought it had some slight undertones of Lost. The premise is that the entire population blacks out for two minutes and 17 seconds. During that blackout they have visions of their lives six months in the future. The show centers on a group of people who share these visions and try to discover why this happened. This show has the potential to drive me nuts with all the questions that are sure to pop up on the characters’ quest to discover the truth. But it also could be an intriguing hour of television that keeps you guessing, in a fun way.

Eastwick (ABC): Something totally different than my first choice but still on my list of shows that I’m willing to give a try. It’s about three women who discover that they have magical powers. No, it’s not a Charmed reboot. This series actually looks more light and whimsical and has some Sex and the City similarities. It stars Rebecca Romijn as one of the magical women. I think this will be a fun series that you can enjoy, without having to think too much about it. I’m curious to see if the viewing audience will get enchanted by this newbie.

Three Rivers (CBS): I am not a fan of medical dramas at all. But Alex O’Loughlin is the reason why I’m going to check this one out. The new drama centers around these doctors that perform organ transplants. I’m all for watching a new show with Alex in it. After Moonlight’s untimely demise, his reappearance on my TV is a long time coming. Bring the tissues, folks. It looks like every week is going to be a tearjerker.

Vampire Diaries (the CW): There are two main reasons why I’m going to give this show a shot: one, I love vampire stories, two, Ian Somerhalder. He could make me watch anything. I think the premise and look of the overall series reminds me of my old favorite Roswell. If this show is half as good as that, then it’s in good shape. It’s all going to rely upon the chemistry of the actors themselves. If it’s not there, then I fear many will tune out. But I think it has a good chance to be a CW hit.

What new show are you excited for? Let me know in the comments.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Big Brother thoughts

2009-08-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Gouveia

Ding dong! The rat is gone!

Yes, I am talking about Big Brother. It is still my summer guilty pleasure, as all you long time Tubers might remember. Each summer I get hooked on this show for no other reason other than it’s just mindless entertainment, as is much of reality television.

All the BB fans out there know that Thursday nights are eviction nights. One houseguest gets the boot out the door but not without some drama. Ronnie, the video-game geek, was up for nomination, along with Lydia, the tattooed, offbeat makeup artist. I was so glad that Ronnie was finally put up on the chopping block. Out of all the seasons I have watched of Big Brother, (which are a lot, don’t judge), he is one of the most annoying contestants ever.

His final plea speech last night just proved everything that I thought about him. He called out Michelle for being a “horrible human being,” but then frequently repeated that it’s just a game. Huh? First, I don’t think that Michelle is the best player that has ever walked through that door, but she doesn’t deserve to be attacked like that. I haven’t seen any evidence to back up Ronnie’s cruel claim. If I were Ronnie I would be ashamed at how he handled himself last night.
A lot of what he said last night made no sense. He was upset with Michelle because she was out for herself and had no loyalties to anyone. Um, hello! That is what it all boils down to in the end. Nobody in that house has any loyalties to anyone. When it comes down to it, they are all in it for themselves. If Ronnie thought that Jessie and Natalie were actually going to stick by him until the end then I think he was fooling himself.

He’s finally out the door and we don’t have to worry about him being on the jury either. So I am extremely happy with the eviction results. Goodbye Ronnie!

I’m thrilled that America gave Jeff the power of coup d’etat, although I laughed when he couldn’t pronounce the word correctly. Jeff and Jordan are my favorites this season, so I’m hoping that their showmance goes on and they stick together as long as possible.

Chima was crowned the new Head of Household. The only person that could have been worse would have been Natalie. Since Chima and Russell, the former HoH, had a massive blowout a few nights back, I’m thinking he’s going up. But you never know, he just might be able to save himself.

Who do you think Chima will nominate? Are you happy that Ronnie is out of the game. Sound off in the comments.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Emmys nominations 2009: Well done!

2009-07-19T21:25:00.000-07:00

Photo: Emmy nominee Simon Baker of the CBS drama "The Mentalist"

by Jennifer Squires Biller

If you haven’t heard, the Emmy nominations were announced on Thursday.

We have to wait until September 20 to see who takes home the naked statues known as Emmys and who shows up with their mother as their date, but meanwhile, here’s a look at the nominees.

Overall, I’m quite pleased with this year’s list. (No, I haven’t been drinking.) It seems Emmy voters may finally be getting that there is more to television than HBO.

I’m absolutely over-the-moon that Pushing Daisies’ Kristin Chenoweth, How I Met Your Mother’s Neil Patrick Harris, and The Mentalist’s Simon Baker scored nominations. Also, a great big high five for Boston Legal - which delivered some Emmy-worthy television in its final episodes - and for Vanessa Williams, who is always downright delicious playing a devilish diva on Ugly Betty. And I’m hoping that this is the year Chandra Wilson gets her well-deserved Emmy for her work on Grey’s Anatomy.

Oh sure, there were several snubs, but not like we usually see. Most notably, where was Josh Holloway of Lost? He has done excellent work and should be recognized. Also, there is no excuse for the complete shut out of Friday Night Lights. It’s one of the best dramas on TV! Just as disappointing, was the lack of love for Psych and its stars. Dule Hill and James Roday make me laugh out loud every week.

That’s my opinion. What do you think of this year’s nominees?

Best Series, Drama
'Big Love'
'Breaking Bad'
'Damages'
'Dexter'
'House'
'Lost'
'Mad Men'

Best Series, Comedy
'30 Rock'
'Entourage'
'Family Guy'
'Flight Of The Conchords'
'How I Met Your Mother'
'The Office'
'Weeds'

Best Actor, Drama
Bryan Cranston 'Breaking Bad'
Michael C. Hall 'Dexter'
Hugh Laurie 'House'
Gabriel Byrne 'In Treatment'
Jon Hamm 'Mad Men'
Simon Baker 'The Mentalist'

Best Actor, Comedy
Alec Baldwin '30 Rock'
Tony Shalhoub 'Monk'
Jim Parsons 'The Big Bang Theory'
Steve Carell 'The Office'
Charlie Sheen 'Two And A Half Men'
Jemaine Clement 'Flight Of The Conchords'

Best Actress, Drama
Sally Field 'Brothers & Sisters'
Glenn Close 'Damages'
Mariska Hargitay 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit'
Holly Hunter 'Saving Grace'
Kyra Sedgwick 'The Closer'
Elisabeth Moss 'Mad Men'

Best Actress, Comedy
Tina Fey '30 Rock'
Christina Applegate 'Samantha Who?'
Julia Louis-Dreyfus 'The New Adventures Of Old Christine'
Sarah Silverman 'The Sarah Silverman Program'
Mary-Louise Parker 'Weeds'
Toni Collette 'United States Of Tara'

Best Supporting Actor, Drama Series
William Shatner 'Boston Legal'
Christian Clemenson 'Boston Legal'
Aaron Paul 'Breaking Bad'
Michael Emerson 'Lost'
John Slattery 'Mad Men'
William Hurt 'Damages'

Best Supporting Actress, Drama Series
Rose Byrne 'Damages'
Hope Davis 'In Treatment'
Chandra Wilson 'Grey's Anatomy'
Sandra Oh 'Grey's Anatomy'
Dianne Wiest 'In Treatment'
Cherry Jones '24'

Best Supporting Actor, Comedy Series
Kevin Dillon 'Entourage'
Tracy Morgan '30 Rock'
Neil Patrick Harris 'How I Met Your Mother'
Rainn Wilson 'The Office'
Jon Cryer 'Two And A Half Men'
Jack McBrayer '30 Rock'

Best Supporting Actress, Comedy Series
Kristin Chenoweth 'Pushing Daisies'
Kristen Wiig 'Saturday Night Live'
Amy Poehler 'Saturday Night Live'
Jane Krakowski '30 Rock'
Vanessa Williams 'Ugly Betty'
Elizabeth Perkins 'Weeds'

Best Reality-Competition Program'American Idol'
'Dancing With The Stars'
'Project Runway'
'The Amazing Race'
'Top Chef'

Best Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program
Ryan Seacrest 'American Idol'
Tom Bergeron 'Dancing With the Stars'
Phil Keoghan 'The Amazing Race'
Heidi Klum 'Project Runway'
Jeff Probst 'Survivor'
Padma Lakshmi and Tom Colicchio 'Top Chef'

Best Variety, Music or Comedy Series
'Late Show With David Letterman'
'Real Time With Bill Maher'
'Saturday Night Live'
'The Colbert Report'
'The Daily Show With Jon Stewart'

Best Guest Actor In A Drama Series
Edward Asner 'CSI: NY'
Ted Danson 'Damages'
Jimmy Smits 'Dexter'
Ernest Borgnine 'ER'
Michael J. Fox 'Rescue Me'

Best Guest Actress In A Drama Series
Sharon Lawrence 'Grey's Anatomy'
Ellen Burstyn 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit'
Brenda Blethyn 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit'
Carol Burnett 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit'
CCH Pounder 'The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency'

Best Guest Actor In A Comedy Series
Beau Bridges 'Desperate Housewives'
Justin Timberlake 'Saturday Night Live'
Steve Martin '30 Rock'
Jon Hamm '30 Rock'
Alan Alda '30 Rock'

Best Guest Actress In A Comedy Series
Christine Baranski 'The Big Bang Theory'
Gena Rowlands 'Monk'
Betty White 'My Name Is Earl'
Tina Fey 'Saturday Night Live'
Jennifer Aniston '30 Rock'
Elaine Stritch '30 Rock'

Best Miniseries
'Generation Kill'
'Little Dorritt'

Best Lead Actor, Miniseries or Movie
Kevin Kline 'Cyrano de Bergerac'
Brendan Gleeson 'Into The Storm'
Sir Ian McKellen 'King Lear'
Kevin Bacon 'Taking Chance'
Kiefer Sutherland '24: Redemption'
Kenneth Branagh 'Wallander: One Step Behind'

Best Lead Actress, Miniseries or Movie
Chandra Wilson 'Accidental Friendship'
Shirley MacLaine 'Coco Chanel'
Drew Barrymore 'Grey Gardens'Jessica Lange 'Grey Gardens'
Sigourney Weaver 'Prayers For Bobby'

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Legend of the Seeker review

2009-07-17T10:47:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Gouveia

This week I had to let every Tube Talk reader know about a show that I’m currently obsessed with. It has already finished airing its first season but I am just now getting into it. It’s called Legend of the Seeker, and it’s awesome!

The very cute Craig Horner, who looks like a younger version of Nathan Fillion, plays Richard Cypher. He discovers that he is the Seeker, the man destined to kill the evil Darken Rahl and save the world. No pressure, right?

On his journey he is accompanied by a wizard named Zed and a woman named Kahlan. She is what they call a Confessor; she knows when people are lying and has the ability to make any person do what she wants. That’s certainly a nifty power, but not so great if you’re in love with the Seeker.

The love story between Richard and Kahlan is what makes the show for me. Craig Horner and Bridget Regan have off-the-charts chemistry that could be compared to the likes of Buffy and Angel from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. That’s something you can’t fake, and they have it. The whole “star-crossed lovers” thing is definitely present in their relationship. As a viewer you just get wrapped up in their story and just want to see if they’ll ever end up together.
The series is made by the same man who created the Hercules and Xena shows. I was also a big fan of those two series, so I was excited to watch this one. If you’re also a fan of those two throughout Legend of the Seeker you will see some familiar faces from both shows, which is really cool.

Seriously, if you haven’t watched this show yet you must. You can watch the entire first season on Hulu or check your local listings. I am halfway through the season and I can’t wait to see the rest.

Are you crazy about this show? Let me know in the comments.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Neil Patrick Harris to host Emmys

2009-07-13T20:27:00.000-07:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Call it the hosting trifecta.

First, Neil Patrick Harris made me laugh out loud hosting the TV Land Awards with his brilliant musical number and jokes. Then, he moved on to make with the funny as host of the Tony Awards, garnering acclaim and the highest ratings for the show in three years.

Now, he’s scored the job of host of this year’s Emmys. Congrats, Neil!

I’m sure that the network was impressed with his Tony performance, but I have to say that I’m partial to his job at the TV Land Awards. He killed in the musical number and his ongoing computer gag was hilarious.

I’m sure the Emmy folks already have this in mind, but I’m begging here, please let him do a musical number. Harris can actually sing, and it would be a treat for all TV fans to see him poke fun at our favorite shows.

Nominations for the Emmys will be announced Thursday, and it’s likely (if I have my way) that Harris will be up for an award for supporting actor in a comedy for his role as Barney on the CBS sitcom How I Met Your Mother.

The 61st Primetime Emmys airs live at 8 pm/ET on Sept. 20. Tune in, please. I think it will be, as Barney says, “legendary.”

Oscar Nuñez shines in The Proposal

2009-07-13T19:44:00.000-07:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Michael Scott would be proud.

The Office’s Oscar Nuñez ,who plays “Oscar” on the NBC comedy, is stealing the spotlight in the new Sandra Bullock film The Proposal. Nuñez scores the biggest laughs in the movie, a tough job considering one of his co-stars is Betty White.

Nuñez’ character on the big screen, Ramone, is the antithesis of Oscar on The Office. Trust me, if you’re a fan of The Office, you have to watch this movie. His antics are hilarious.

Yes, the movie is a typical romantic comedy, but Nuñez, White, and a gorgeous Ryan Reynolds make it worth the ticket price. Also, for all you guys out there, Sandra Bullock has a funny semi-nude scene. You’re welcome.

You know I get excited when one of our weekly TV stars steals the spotlight on the big screen, so I had to share. Another familiar TV face is also in the film: Craig T. Nelson, or “Coach,” as you may know him.

So, go check out “Oscar” on the big screen. You can thank me later.

Commentary with a Co-Ed reviews "10 Things I Hate About You"

2009-07-09T20:24:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Gouveia

When I first heard the ABC Family network was going to be airing a television adaptation of the movie “10 Things I Hate About You,” I was understandably weary. My thoughts on it were probably the same as many fans of the film, which was how could it ever measure up to the movie?

For those of you who haven’t seen the movie…why? I have seen it more than a dozen times. It’s one of those movies that you grab off your DVD shelf whenever you want to watch a good old-fashioned chick flick. I like to think of it as my generation’s “Pretty in Pink.” What’s not to love? There’s cheesy teenage angst, laugh-out-loud moments and Heath Ledger in one of his first major roles. So on Tuesday night, I decided to give the TV version a shot and see how it would compare to the movie. Was I instantly hooked? Or did it become more of a wait and see game?

I knew it was going to be near impossible to sit through this show without noticing the changes that the show runners made. For one, the two sisters, Kat and Bianca, are new in town and are just starting Padua High School. Their mother didn’t walk out on them but died in some way that has yet to be revealed. Kat, originally played by Julia Stiles, still has the brooding misunderstood vibe to her. Glad to see that hasn’t changed. Her younger sister Bianca is still a naive social climber, but I found this version to be a little too perky. However, it was great to see the same actor from the film play their father.

We got to see a glimpse of the character Patrick Verona, originally played by Heath Ledger, in the first five minutes. This version’s Patrick, played by Ethan Peck, certainly has the mysterious thing down. All the staring could be considered creepy, like what Kat thinks at first, but we all know that he isn’t the scary guy everybody at Padua thinks he is. I do think that Ethan Peck is a little too Abercrombie and Fitch to ever be considered terrifying. Heath Ledger had a certain look that made you believe that he could have been one of the offbeat kids in high school.

The most important element of this show is how good the chemistry between Kat and Patrick plays onscreen. It’s a bit early to tell, but I think all the actors need time to adjust to these roles. The character of Cameron is way too nerdy for my taste. I don’t remember him being that much of a pushover. Plus, Joey Donner is supposed to the epitome of a self absorbed womanizer, but he just seems to be a dim surfer dude who lets his bossy girlfriend Chastity push him around. I was surprised to see how they made the role of Chastity more of a lead, where as in the film she has a minor role. I guess they need a “villain” of sorts for the girls to be at odds with.

All in all, it was a mediocre pilot. I’ll continue to watch and see where these characters go. I’m eager to see more Patrick and Kat scenes, and maybe Cameron will grow a backbone in the meantime. The show will almost win me over if Ethan Peck’s Patrick breaks out into his version of “Can’t Take my Eyes off of You.”

Did you watch? What was your take on this remake? Sound off in the comments.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Pushing Daisies returned with a bang in its final episodes

2009-05-31T07:57:00.000-07:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

ABC, you wound me.

Just when I’d made peace with the fact that some of my favorite shows from last season won’t return (Eli Stone, Pushing Daisies, etc.) you do the unthinkable. You air the first of the last few episodes of Pushing Daisies, and the entire episode is about Olive and Ned as a couple, a pairing I’d been rooting for since the show’s debut. Sure, the engagement was only pretend for the sake of Olive’s old pals, but I’ll take it. We even got a kiss, and at the very end Ned admitted he was jealous of Olive and her new guy. (Gulp.) Talk about a cliffhanger.

Were the Pushing Daisies people really going to pursue a potential Olive/Ned relationship this season? Oh, ABC, to be so cruel that you give and then take away. I’ve been preaching the Olive/Ned connection for months, and it seems that ABC may have realized that Kristin Chenowith and Lee Pace have undeniable chemistry.

The sad part is there are only a couple episodes left of the show, ever, as ABC put a fork in it. Perhaps if they’d jumped on the Olive bandwagon a little earlier, then the show would have scored a little better ratings. Or perhaps it wouldn’t have made a difference. But one thing is for sure: Olive and Ned, you will be missed.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Friday night timeslot woes

2009-05-29T08:35:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Gouveia

The television season is over and we are beginning to head into the land of seemingly never-ending reruns, but not before the networks announced their fall lineups. This begs the question, “Just where exactly our favorite shows are headed?”

It probably shocked a lot of you fellow tube watchers to find out that Ugly Betty and Smallville are both being moved to Friday nights. What were the networks thinking, and is this the kiss of death for these shows?

I think we have all had one of our favorite shows move to another night. That usually means that the network is trying to find a better spot for the show. It could also mean that the networks believe the show is on its last season and want to finish it off on whatever night is available. But a move to Friday nights is a sign of worry, more than any other night. Why is Friday a bad move? Well, the majority of the demographic that primarily watches these two shows is not home on Friday nights. The other bad thing about it is that even if the fans decide to record it, there is no way to show those numbers in the overall ratings. Do the networks even look at the TiVo numbers?

It’s a known fact that many shows that move to Fridays or premiere on that night don’t last too long. Remember the amazing Moonlight? Or more recently, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. I was holding out hope that Terminator would not be cancelled but I knew that moving it to Fridays would not be a positive thing for the show. I know that Ghost Whisperer thrives on Friday nights, but that may be because it’s targeted for an older audience.

Even though I thoroughly enjoyed this past season of Ugly Betty, many thought that it lost some of its original charm. The ratings and the critical acclaim did suffer so is that why ABC decided to move it to its new time slot? Do they believe that Ugly Betty only has one more season left in them? I don’t think that’s true. I saw a lot of this show’s magic return in the season finale. If they fix some minor things, then Betty and Co. could live to see another season.

Smallville on the other hand is an entirely different story. This show has been on for eight seasons and many feel that it has worn out its welcome. It would seem that The CW would agree since they moved Smallville to Friday nights before an encore, (yep, encore), of America’s Next Top Model. Ouch! That move really doesn’t display much confidence from the network.

Do you agree that moving to Fridays is a bad sign for any show? Will you still watch Ugly Betty and Smallville at their new times?

Dancing with the Stars: Gilles Marini was robbed

2009-05-22T07:19:00.000-07:00

No offense to adorable and talented Shawn Johnson, but Gilles Marini should have gone home with the mirror ball trophy this week on Dancing with the Stars. Marini was, hands down, the best dancer of the entire crop of celebrities each week. His performances were entertaining, sexy and passionate.

I guess I have to remember that this competition isn’t about the best dancer though. It’s about popularity. Otherwise, one of my favorite celebrities of the batch, Ty Murray, would have gone home weeks ago.

Johnson did an excellent job each week, especially considering her youth and the maturity that some of the dances required. Kudos to Johnson for her fighting spirit and technique, but I still preferred Marini’s routines each time, and so did the judges. So, I’m perplexed at how Johnson upset the leading scorer, Marini, to take home the trophy. It must have been the fans. She had a fan base from her Olympic gymnastics career that apparently gave her the popularity vote.

This isn’t the first time the best dancer hasn’t won the competition. Remember Mario Lopez? He didn’t win, despite being the best dancing celebrity we’d ever seen at that time. Instead, Mr. Personality Emmitt Smith took home the trophy.

Congratulations to Johnson and her partner Mark Ballas and to Marini and his partner Cheryl Burke for making it to the final. But, I want to give a special thanks to Ty Murray for giving us such an entertaining season. Since it’s a popularity contest, I almost wish he could have won, simply so we could have heard his final speech. If the bull-riding thing doesn’t work out, I think he has a career as a stand-up comic.

Earl, Privileged, Samantha Who? cancelled; Medium jumps networks

2009-05-20T20:21:00.000-07:00

The networks are unveiling their fall lineups this week and several shows have been cancelled. First and most distressing to me is the delightful Privileged on the CW. It won’t get a second season I’m sorry to say.

Instead, the CW is opting for several new shows, including a Melrose Place reboot starring Ashley Simpson-Wentz. Yeah, I’ll be watching that. That was sarcasm in case you missed it. The CW is also jumping on the Twilight popularity surge and adding a show called Vampire Diaries about blood-sucking brothers and a show called Beautiful Life about young models living together. I ask you, do any of those shows seem better than the always consistently entertaining Privileged? Time will tell I suppose.

Over at NBC, My Name is Earl will end this season. I’m happy to see it go, frankly. It was a good show for a short period, but it seems the gross factor has increased exponentially each season. NBC also cancelled Medium, but CBS has picked up the show to air after Ghost Whisperer. Chuck and Law & Order have both been renewed. Also, because of the new Jay Leno show eating up so many hours of the primetime schedule, Friday Night Lights won’t air until the summer of 2010. Don’t get me started on how crazy that is. By 2010, we probably won’t remember that Coach Taylor was fired and had to take a job with the Panthers’ new rivals. Southland and Parks and Recreation have also been renewed.

CBS has canceled The Unit, Without a Trace, The Ex List, Eleventh Hour, Harper’s Island, Swingtown, and Worst Week. It has several new shows lined up for fall and midseason: Accidentally on Purpose, The Good Wife, NCIS: Los Angeles, Three Rivers, The Bridge and Undercover Boss.

ABC announced the cancelation of Samantha Who?, The Unusuals, In the Motherhood, Surviving Suburbia, Homeland Security USA, Opportunity Knocks, and Life on Mars, in addition to Eli Stone, Pushing Daisies, According to Jim, Boston Legal, Dirty Sexy Money and Homeland Security USA. The network will add 11 new shows for fall: Cougar Town, The Deep End, Eastwick, Flash Forward, The Forgotten, Hank, Happy Town, The Middle, Modern Family, V and Shark Tank.

Goodbye Scrubs – not quite!

2009-05-18T17:24:00.000-07:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

After last week’s spectacular Scrubs season finale that took us on a walk down memory lane, I was sure we’d seen the last of the Sacred Heart gang. It appears I was wrong.

ABC has renewed the show for another season, despite that series star Zach Braff will only be on board for six episodes. Scrubs’ favorites Donald Faison, John C. McGinley and Neil Flynn will all be back, but not Judy Reyes, who reportedly will only be a guest star. Sarah Chalke is also in discussions, but has not committed to another season. Several interns from season eight will be back, too.

I’ll probably get plenty of hate mail for saying this, but I wish the show had ended with the finale we just saw. It was such a perfect bookend to the eight seasons of John Dorian’s trials and tribulations that I hate to see the show limp on in mediocrity without the chemistry of the cast that made it so special.

The finale was every thing a series finale should be, complete with a heart-tugging musical montage. It even answered questions we’d asked for years: Will J.D. and Elliot get together? (Yes!) What is Janitor’s real name? (Glenn Matthews or perhaps Tony or Tommy, if he was just playing with J.D.) Does Dr. Cox really like J.D.? (Yes, well, more than he does Hugh Jackman that’s for sure.) We saw a hallway of faces from the past eight years who had touched J.D. in someway, starting with the beloved Laverne. And we learned in J.D.’s fantasy for the future that Turk’s daughter marries J.D.’s son, and that they all spend holidays together along with the Cox family. OK, so maybe that was just a fantasy, but it satisfied most of the diehard Scrubbies. It was fantastic finale, and I especially enjoyed the cameo of series creator Bill Lawrence tearing down the “Goodbye J.D.” sheet. Bravo!

I’m a big fan of Bill Lawrence, so perhaps I should trust that whatever he produces next year will be equally as entertaining as the Scrubs I’ve loved for eight years. But it’s hard to imagine the show without all the players that made it sparkle. If Lawrence goes in another direction from the original – the way Frasier departed from Cheers - then perhaps the show could work. Then again, it could also be another Joey. What I do know is that after seeing the current crop of sitcoms that rolled out this past season, Scrubs is still better than anything networks are producing. So, I understand why ABC is hesitant to let it go.

Despite that the show was renewed, I’ll say goodbye now to the sitcom I’ve loved. Thank you Scrubs’ cast, writers, and Bill Lawrence for giving me a place to go to laugh every week and for the excellent music featured on the show. (A good portion of the songs in my iTunes account came from Scrubs, and I’m off to get the Peter Gabriel song that played in the final episode.) Goodbye Scrubs. You will be missed.

If you missed the finale or just want to see the beautiful ending, grab some tissues and hit play below.

Matthew Fox and Jimmy Kimmel duet

2009-05-18T11:54:00.000-07:00

It’s no secret I have a little crush on Lost’s Matthew Fox. Because of that, I feel compelled to share this hilarious clip from his appearance recently on Jimmy Kimmel Live!

If you enjoyed Kimmel’s videos with Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, then you’ll enjoy this. (If you don’t know what I’m talking about, check them out on You Tube.) This one is set to a great song. By the way, Fox is shirtless at around the three-minute mark. You’re welcome.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Smallville finale disappoints

2009-05-17T07:55:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Gouveia

If I had to use one word to describe last night’s season finale of Smallville it would be letdown.

What was that? When it comes to this show I have never sugar coated my feelings. I have been an extremely agitated, yet loyal viewer of this series. Through all the ups and downs, I felt hopeful that the writers would pull it together and pay off what the viewers have been waiting for. But this episode had so many plot holes I just can’t turn a blind eye. I guess I should start from the beginning.

Rokk, from the Legion, comes back from the future to tell Clark that tomorrow will be the day he dies. Okay, no shock there. Only the entire season has been building towards this epic battle between Clark and Doomsday. Everyone was waiting for it, and I guess we have to keep on waiting. I think I missed the battle because it was over within two minutes. We didn’t get to see Clark use any of his abilities while fighting Doomsday. He got smacked around a couple of times and then Clark “super leaps” Doomie into a building where it then explodes.

Fail.

I’m sure all of you Smallville watchers had heard the rumblings of a major character dying in this episode. Well, it was Jimmy Olsen. Who, by the way, is not really Jimmy Olsen. If anyone was not really his or her “character” he was definitely not the one I was thinking. I knew that he was not long for this world, once he found out Clark’s secret. Way to go, Smallville. It was like a blaring alarm was going off shouting, “He’s going to die!” Not a very stealth move. Apparently, Jimmy, or Henry James Olsen, has a little brother who we never heard about who likes to wear bow ties, too. At his brother’s funeral, Chloe gave him faux Jimmy’s camera. She said that maybe he would follow in his footsteps someday.

I have never been a fan of Jimmy on this show. I often found him annoying and whiney and his relationship with Chloe just sucked the entire life out of this show. However, Aaron Ashmore has been doing really well with his performances post breakup. Now that he is gone, I’m left wondering what the purpose was for killing him. Also, why did they completely forget about Davis’ human side and make him a Fatal Attraction wannabe?

Even when Davis was physically separated from the beast he was still a psychopath? It doesn’t really follow what we’ve been seeing this whole season. We saw someone who was fighting desperately against something he didn’t have control over. That was what made Davis Bloome so interesting. They threw away his entire appeal within a few lines of dialogue. What a waste.

Not only did Jimmy die, but Clark decided, after he resurfaced surprisingly unscathed post “the epic battle that never was,” that Clark Kent is also dead. He tells Chloe that his human side is his most dangerous, not his alien side. His connection to humanity is holding him back from the hero he is destined to become. He says goodbye to Chloe and walks away from her. Poor Chloe not only lost her ex but her best friend all in the same day. Not to mention that no one seems to want to continue the search for Lois any longer. Thanks to the Legion ring, she was sent to the future somewhere within the first fifteen minutes of the episode.

We all know the show has been renewed for season nine. Will you watch because of the return of Zod? What did you think of the Jimmy “twist?” Did anyone enjoy it? Sound off in the comments.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Glee sneak peak

2009-05-11T17:40:00.000-07:00

There hasn’t been much lately to get excited about in the world of television. But FOX has come to our rescue, my fellow weary TV viewers.

Check out this clip of its new show Glee, set to debut May 19 after American Idol.

It’s a musical comedy that’s a little Freaks and Geeks and whole lot of funny. And this extended trailer is scored with a Journey song, so it’s a win-win. Take a peak and set your DVR. You don’t want to miss this one.

Watch Scrubs and win money

2009-05-11T10:58:00.000-07:00

Is there anything better than watching TV and possibly getting paid for it? Nope. I don’t think so.

Scrubs fans, Comedy Central is currently giving away $1,000 every week night for the rest of May and all you have to do is watch Scrubs and enter for a chance to win.

Scrubs airs on Comedy Central at 7 p.m. ET and then again at 7:30 p.m. ET every weeknight. Here are the instructions on how you can enter to get the cash.

1. Just watch the 7pm/6c Scrubs episode any weeknight. During the episode you'll get a keyword(example: "achy") -- write it down!

2. Right after that, watch the following Scrubs episode at 7:30pm/6:30c and look for that episode's keyword (example: "groin").

3. Combine the two keywords to get the winning two-word diagnosis (example: "achy groin"). Each diagnosis is active for 24 hours until it expires.

Watch Scrubs every weeknight and enter all month long, but you can only enter once per day.
Enter here: http://www.comedycentral.com/sweepstakes/scrub_in_and_win/index.jhtml

OK, so get ready to have your funny bone tickled and perhaps your wallet a little thicker. Good luck, Tubers!

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Lost season ender

2009-05-08T14:13:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Gouveia

The season finale of Lost is coming up next week and it promises to be an episode full of twists and turns. Sure, pretty much every episode of Lost could fall under that category. Nonetheless, this week’s episode was a great set up for the finale. Locke went on a power trip, Sawyer and Jack got the stuffing beat out of them, and Ben is actually funny. Weird, right?

The one element that I can always count on this show to have is an awesome, jaw-dropping, scratch-your-head-pre-credits moment. Before the title comes up and the eerie sound starts playing, I’m always left bewildered by what I just saw. This week, for instance, Richard told Sun that he recognizes Jack and Co. because he watched them all die. Huh? My thoughts exactly. Could Richard mean that Jack succeeded in getting the plane to never crash and they all disappeared Back to the Future style? Or did they all just get killed? I’m hoping for the first theory.

I thought it was quite amusing watching Locke go on his little power trip as new leader of the Others. He was sticking it to Ben whenever he had the chance, whether it be about his new power as leader or how Ben never saw Jacob. I couldn’t help but laugh at some of Ben’s lines during the scene when Locke asked Ben if he was going into the jungle with him. Who knew that Benjamin Linus could be funny? He mostly just creeps me out. The tone in his voice just had so much loathing towards Locke that it came off as hilarious.

Sawyer got beat up by the Dharma Initiative because their cover was blown. I felt bad for him and Juliet. They had some kind of resemblance of lives and then it was all taken away. Love them or hate them, but Sawyer and Juliet have some great onscreen chemistry. I was taken aback by Sawyer deciding to just leave the island on the submarine. His response when he took one final glance at the island was “good riddance.” Really? I didn’t think that he would leave Kate and the others behind. Poor Juliet’s fantasy of a life alone with Sawyer had blown up in her face when Kate showed up on the sub, and she knew it too. It looks like the big elephant in the room is going to finally be discussed next week.

Do you think that Jack’s idea of preventing the plane from crashing a good one? Or should he not mess with fate? I’m hoping next week we finally get an answer to whom or what is Jacob. Will Locke actually be able to kill him? Sound off in the comments.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Smallville preview: Injustice

2009-05-06T12:00:00.000-07:00

Check out this clip from Thursday’s episode of Smallville. It looks like it’s going to be another great episode. I’d like to commend the folks at the show and the network because whatever changes they’ve made this year, well, the show is rocking.

I feared after last year that the show wouldn’t rebound, so thanks Smallville producers for proving me wrong.

The clip is Clark being all hero-y and saving our girl Chloe. Any clip that ends with a Chloe-Clark embrace is worth a shout out. Enjoy!

Don’t miss the TV Land Awards

2009-04-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

What could be better than a room full of celebrities celebrating classic television that includes Tom Selleck, Matthew McConaughey, Neil Patrick Harris and the casts of Knots Landing, Home Improvement, M*A*S*H, Murphy Brown, Married With Children and many more classic TV shows?

Not much, if you ask me.

Each year the TV Land Awards make me smile, and this year is no exception. If you missed Sunday’s show, check out the replay Tuesday at 10 p.m. ET on TV Land. It’s a treat, I promise.

Neil Patrick Harris proved he’s a Hugh Jackman in waiting, with his hosting style and hilarious musical number. Doogie Howser can sing! And I couldn’t help but get a little giddy when I saw the cast of Magnum P.I. all together again along with Tim the “toolman” Taylor, Sam from Cheers, Ted Bundy, Hot Lips from M*A*S*H, and Murphy Brown.

I grew up watching many of these shows, and I’m so thrilled that TV Land produces this show every year to pay tribute to these classics. You know TV shows are good when 25 years later you can still watch them and be entertained. That’s the case for so many of the shows honored at this year’s TV Land Awards.

I’m sure many of you will probably tune in just to see how the celebrities have aged — (Selleck looks good!) — and that’s fine. But please take a moment to consider that shows like All in the Family, Happy Days, Magnum P.I. and Seinfeld don’t come along every day. If you don’t believe me, take a spin through the channels and see how few sitcoms and truly wonderful shows exist today. It will probably send you rushing to TV Land to catch an old episode of The Andy Griffith Show.

Here’s a look at Harris’ hysterical opening number. For other behind-the-scenes videos, visit the TV Land Web site where there are plenty of videos from the TV Land Awards.

Remembering Bea Arthur

2009-04-27T09:08:00.000-07:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

TV funny lady Bea Arthur passed away Saturday at age 86, after battling cancer. Our thoughts are with her family, colleagues and fans.

Arthur was famous for several roles, including the ‘70s groundbreaking show, Maude, a spin-off of All in the Family. Arthur played the strong title character, and the show addressed many political and women’s issues, including abortion. She later went on to play one of the beloved Golden Girls, Dorothy.

Arthur was also an acclaimed stage and film actress. She won a Tony for her role in Mame, with Angela Lansbury.

Maude and Golden Girl costar Rue McClanahan told TV Guide that Arthur was a trailblazer for women’s comedy. "She showed me how to be very brave in playing comedy," McClanahan said. "I'll miss that courage. And I'll miss that voice."

I wasn’t very old when Maude was popular. I have faint memories of it being on in the background in my family room as a kid, but I truly didn’t connect with Arthur until her sarcastic run as Dorothy on the Golden Girls. My college roommate and I would watch the episodes during weekdays, in between classes, and despite the fact that the four ladies were senior citizens and we weren’t even 20, we could always find some parallel to our current lives.

The Golden Girls made me laugh, especially Dorothy’s quick tongue and dry wit. “Thank you for being a friend,” Bea Arthur, during those college years. There is no question you were a golden girl.

To honor Arthur, the Hallmark Channel is running a Golden Girls Memorial Day marathon, featuring Dorothy-centered episodes on Monday, May 25, starting at 6:30 a.m. until 2:30 a.m. ET.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Supernatural recap

2009-04-25T22:00:00.001-07:00

Photo: courtesy of the CW

by Ashley Gouveia

When I first heard rumblings about a possible third Winchester brother on Supernatural, I immediately thought that it couldn’t be true. There was no way that the writers would introduce another brother on an already established show. It had Cousin Oliver potential written all over it. However, this show has never let me down, so I just waited to see how this was all going to unfold. I have to say, I am a little confused.

I really enjoyed the episode. I loved that it brought up a lot of stuff from the past seasons, like John and his relationship with Sam. But I guess it’s just a hard pill to swallow that John Winchester had another kid out there. Not only that, but that he was able to spend quality time with him and actually be a normal father. There are a lot of fans who dislike John Winchester because of the way he raised and treated his boys. I was always part of the group who believed that he did the best he could. Plus, who couldn’t love Jeffrey Dean Morgan? This episode changed how I see John Winchester.

In the beginning of the episode, a random kid called John’s phone and told Dean that he was John’s son. Much like Dean, I was already thinking that this was some sort of trap. Maybe it was a trickster or some kind of angel test that they wanted to put the brothers through. When it was revealed that Adam, the new Winchester brother, didn’t have a negative reaction to silver or holy water, it wasn’t looking good for any of my theories. It seemed as if the boy was legit.

What was the most interesting was how Dean and Sam reacted to this news. Dean was completely against letting Adam into the fold of hunting, while Sam was rolling out the welcome mat. Sam’s reasoning was that he believed Adam would be better off if they taught him how to defend himself. I felt like Sam was really dark in this episode. His motivations and his reasoning are a little off. I guess that’s all the demon blood that he’s been slurping on.

Why didn’t Dean push the issue further about how easily swayed Adam was to the whole “demons are real” story? That moment had me thinking again that there was something weird about this kid. As it turns out, I was right. It was revealed that Adam was a ghoul, playing them the whole time. The ghoul killed the real Adam and his mother. The twist was that Adam really was John’s son. I think that was when my jaw dropped to the floor.

What does this say about Papa Winchester? Has this episode forever tainted the way you look at his character? Did it reaffirm your hatred?

Sound off in the comments.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Susan Boyle: I Dreamed a Dream

2009-04-20T12:29:00.000-07:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Confession: I rarely watch reality TV.

OK, so that’s not exactly news to loyal followers of Tube Talk. But when I see clips like the one below, I think I may be missing some incredible entertainment by avoiding the dream-crushing reality shows, where normal folks go to find stardom.

Meet Susan Boyle, a sassy Brit with a singing voice so sweet it could make a grown man cry. She doesn’t look like a “star,” and when she took the stage on Britain's Got Talent for her audition, it was clear the cynical audience and judges were ready to spew their venom in Susan’s direction. Then, she opened her mouth and hit her first note.

I’ll let you watch to see what happens. Be warned, it may give you chills.

The entire world is cheering for Susan to make it, not despite her frumpy appearance, but because of it. I think the masses may finally have had enough of the ubiquitous Barbie-doll-looking singers that keep emerging year after year, with their size two waists, perfect hair, makeup, spray tans, and arched eyebrows. The world is rebelling and embracing Susan Boyle.

I’m pretty sure Boyle doesn’t wax her brows, have hair extensions, or wear Spanx. She’s refreshingly un-Hollywood, and the world is happy to see it. Go Susan, go! I hope she doesn’t cave to the pressures of Hollywood and straighten that curly hair, join Nutrisystem and shrink to half her size, and alter her face with plastic surgery. Here’s hoping that Susan stays just as she is and proves that talent is what makes people love her, not her appearance.

Hit play below or click here to check out Susan's audition.

The Office’s Andy and Dwight sing Country Roads

2009-04-20T12:00:00.000-07:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

As a West Virginian, the song Country Roads always makes me smile. It’s an anthem, of sorts, for natives, that no matter where we are in the world when we hear those first few notes of the song, we’re suddenly transported home again.

Whether you’re standing in a packed West Virginia University football stadium after a game, amid a sea of blue and gold, singing along to Country Roads with the players and coaches as the song blasts through the loud speakers, or driving on a winding two-lane road listening to it on the radio, it’s futile to resist the lure of that simple but uplifting and contagious ditty.

I’ve seen Country Roads transform quiet hotel bars into spirited crowds who can’t resist the urge to sing along. I’ve seen country music acts Brad Paisley and Alabama do the song in concert and bring down the house. I’ve even seen the song performed Calypso style in the Caribbean with a strange Jamaican accent, all the while holding its charm. I guess you could say Country Roads unites us. It has the ability to bring us together, even when our common differences divide us.

Such was the case with “frenemies” (friends and enemies) Dwight and Andy on a recent episode of The Office. It’s a clip I had to share here. Trust me, you’ll be tapping your foot along with Andy’s superb banjo stylings and Dwight’s passionate guitar strumming.

Thank you Office show runners for showcasing this song so humorously. Dwight singing a verse in German is priceless. Hit play below or click here and enjoy!

ABC to air final episodes of canceled shows

2009-04-20T11:17:00.000-07:00

Photo: ABC, Eli Stone

ABC is still on my list – yes, I have one – for killing my beloved Eli Stone. From its musical numbers to its charming cast, it was a highlight in a dreary television week.

The good news is that this summer the network will air the final four episodes of the show, along with the final episodes of two other ABC canceled shows: Dirty, Sexy, Money and Pushing Daisies.

All three ABC shows were canned back in November, leaving fans clamoring for some finality to wrap up storylines. I guess I should be thanking ABC for at least giving fans some closure. But, for me, it is bittersweet. Having four more episodes of Eli and a singing Olive on Pushing Daisies may leave me longing for more, when I had just started to forget about them.

The shows will air this summer on Saturdays at 10 p.m., a time when the network assumes no one is watching television anyway. Here is the schedule.

Pushing Daisies – May 30-June 13 (final three episodes Saturdays at 10 p.m. ET)
Eli Stone – June 20-July 11 (final four episodes Saturdays at 10 p.m. ET)
Dirty Sexy Money – July 18-Aug. 8 (final four episodes Saturdays at 10 p.m. ET)

How I Met Your Mother: Robin and Barney BRo Love video

2009-04-17T10:15:00.000-07:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

EEEEEEE!!!!

That high-pitched squeal you just heard (OK read) was the sound I made after watching the How I Met Your Mother Robin and Barney-centric video from CBS. It’s titled BRo Love, “B” for Barney and “Ro” for Robin. Get it?

The video has many of Barney and Robin’s best scenes and heavily implies that a romance is brewing. Sure, some of the scenes are taken out of context and set to romantic music, but hey, isn’t that what a great “shipper” video - as their known on the ‘net - is all about?

I’m not sure which makes me happier: that it looks like the show listened to me — and a zillion other fans — and is pursuing a Barney/Robin coupling or that CBS took time to make a “shipper” video.

Fans of TV couples have been making these videos for years and promoting the networks’ shows for free. (For proof, check out this and more at You Tube.) It’s about time the networks tapped in to this popular form of fandom. Honestly, I’m shocked that it’s CBS who took the plunge first. I would have thought the CW would have been the first to do a shipper video. But kudos to CBS for this piece of brilliance, rewarding longtime fans. This is one of the best I’ve seen. And I’m betting it may even pull in a few folks who’ve never watched the show.

Hit play below and enjoy!

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Save the Sarah Connor Chronicles

2009-04-17T09:21:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Gouveia

It’s around that time of year when all of us TV fanatics worry about our favorite shows getting the ax and being prematurely cancelled. Of course, the television shows that have 10 or 20 million viewers each week don’t have to panic. Instead, it’s the shows that have a strong following, but the numbers don’t display that loyalty.

My favorite “on the bubble” television show is Terminator: the Sarah Connor Chronicles. I thought this week would be a good time to beg, I mean, give my well-thought-out reasons, as to why this show has to have a third season. These all came to me while watching the season, now possibly, series finale. Are you listening Fox?

Reason #1: Who’s John Connor?
How could the show possibly end without us seeing what happens after John is transported to the future, post Judgment Day? Apparently, nobody has heard of him, and he is completely alone. Sarah decided to stay behind and let her son go without her to chase after John Henry. This plot could easily give the show runners material for a third season. What does John do now? Is he going to get back? Will he repeat the decisions that he knows his future self made?

Reason #2: OMG! BAG is back!
We had to watch Brian Austin Green’s Derek get blown away by a single shot to the head from a terminator and then his ashes being lowered into a grave. I thought the character I had grown to love was gone for good. But then in the last five minutes of the finale, Derek showed up alive and well in the future. Okay, we just got Derek back and they’re thinking of canceling the show. It can’t happen. We, the fans, need to see why Derek doesn’t know John. We also need to see how John is going to handle being around his dead uncle and father. That’s right! Kyle Reese is alive too. This is all just too good to pass up.

Reason #3: Is that Allison from Palmdale?
Not only were Derek and Kyle there to meet John in the future, but a girl who John assumed to be Cameron was there. I think we can confirm that the smiling girl who was pet friendly was not Cameron but Allison, the human who Cameron was created after. Oh, the possibilities. The fans need to see John’s interaction with Allison. This could be an amazing storyline that many John and Cameron fans have waited to see for some time now. Thomas Dekker and Summer Glau have amazing chemistry; it would just be a complete waste to miss the opportunity to explore this relationship.

Reason #4: Where is John Henry?
The last time we saw the oddly lovable and yet creepy terminator he was in a room alone with a knife-wielding Cameron. She gave him her chip and he teleported into the future. Why did Cameron give her chip? Will John Henry now have Cameron’s personality when John finds him? Is John Henry part of the resistance?

Reason #5: It’s one of the best written and acted shows on television.
If not because of all the amazing cliffhangers that need to be answered this show is one of the best out there. The whole cast always brings their A game and the writing is top notch. If any show deserves a second chance it’s this one. Plus, from a marketing standpoint the network would be foolish not to work the new Terminator movie angle. I’m sure the film will bring in new viewers. I think moving the show back to Monday night or another slot would bring up the ratings.

Those are only a few reasons why this show deserves a third season. Please FOX, don’t let another great show slip into the proverbial abyss of television shows that ended way before their time.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

TV Link Time

2009-04-06T07:53:00.001-07:00

Here is a look at what the Web's top TV bloggers are chatting about this week in the TV Blog Coalition, of which Tube Talk Girl is a proud member.

As ER said its goodbye, Buzz thought back over her favorite memories of the show and asked you to share your own. (BuzzSugar)

This week, Sandie took a look at American Idol's Adam Lambert back when he was in the Los Angeles production of "Wicked." (Daemon's TV)

Are you ready to laugh even more on Thursday nights? Check out my review of the new NBC comedy Parks and Recreation starring Amy Poehler and Rashida Jones. (Give Me My Remote)

In the latest round of Playing the Percentages, Scooter puts a number on the chances of Chuck ever hooking up with Sarah, if Cupid will be any good. And just hours after he accessed the chances of another season of Friday Night Lights, it was announced we’d get two. (Scooter McGavin's 9th Green)

Rae's sad to say goodbye to ER but she didn't think the finale was quite as perfect as others did. (RTVW)

Vance thinks the producers and judges are trying way too hard to fix the competition on American Idol, especially when it's so obvious that Kris Allen and Allison Iraheta are far better than Adam Lambert, Danny Gokey and Lil Rounds. (Tapeworthy)

This week, Jace took an early look at next week's episode of Chuck ("Chuck Versus the Dream Job"), which features guest stars Scott Bakula and Chevy Chase. (Televisionary)

Marisa participated in a chat with SNL's Will Forte and Arrested Development's Mitch Hurwitz on their new animated project Sit Down Shut Up. (TiFaux)

Jennifer pondered whether a Saved by the Bell 20-year cast reunion is a good idea or if Jimmy Fallon was simply drunk when he began his campaign for the event. (Tube Talk)

Matt is glad ER has ended. Because he's seen Southland, and it's great. (TV Fanatic)

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Smallville recap

2009-04-04T16:58:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Gouveia

See how good an episode of Smallville can be when it deals with things that actually matter? Last night’s episode was so awesome. Every actor was at the top of their game. This storyline about Davis has really amped up these last couple of episodes. Sam Witwer has really done a phenomenal job with this character. He has given a human side to one of the comic’s most dangerous villains.

The first five minutes I thought I was watching the pilot episode. The meteor shower, the Kents, Lionel and little Lex were all part of a flashback to how Davis came to Earth. It was so great to see Martha and Jonathan again. I didn’t realize how much I had missed them. Even the sight of Lionel got me all nostalgic. It broke my heart to see a young Davis abandoned in the field, while the Kents walked off with Clark.

Another person who certainly deserves recognition is Cassidy Freeman who plays Tess. That girl can pull off being evil one minute and sympathetic in another. Those scenes with her and Davis in the mansion were chilling. It could have been really boring with all that exposition that she had to get through about Davis’ past, but it wasn’t. I still don’t know what her game is. She knows about Clark and how Davis is meant to destroy him. Clark is aware of that too. So is Clark still going to work for her? Those are going to be some awkward days in the office.

Speaking of awkward, how awkward was that when Clark walked in on Davis and Chloe having dinner? Chloe didn’t let her slight frustration with Clark subside. She told him how she felt like he wasn’t really being there for her as a friend. I say it is about time. Plus, Jimmy is being a complete jerk. I could understand him being angry with her for not trusting him, but those mean emails he apparently sent her were uncalled for.

Allison Mack and Sam Witwer have such amazing chemistry. I always find their scenes to be so intense. When he came to Isis and tried to get her to listen to him was phenomenal. Then when he said he loved her I couldn’t help but feel bad for him. I knew Chloe wouldn’t be able to just kill Davis with the kryptonite. But it just goes to show that when it came to protecting Clark she would have. Having Clark watch as Chloe put her hand up to Davis on the glass was heartbreaking. Well acted from everyone in that scene.

Of course we knew that Davis/Doomsday wasn’t going to get killed off just like that. It would have been ant-climatic since this whole season has been building to a Davis and Clark battle. Can Chloe help Davis control Doomsday? I think she believes she can and if it’s the only way to save Clark, she is surely going to try her hardest. I can’t wait to see how this story arc turns out. So far I’m enjoying it so much I think I’ll have to rewatch the episode again.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Should Saved by the Bell have a 20-year-reunion?

2009-04-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

If Jimmy Fallon has his way, the teens of Saved by the Bell will be reuniting for their 20-year-reunion?

Friday night on Fallon’s show, he brought out “Mr. Belding” (Dennis Haskins) and the two pleaded with the former cast to do the reunion on Fallon’s show. Frankly, I’m betting “Screech” could use the work.

Fallon created an online petition at his website to champion his cause, which he labeled “the impossible dream.” Already, hundreds of fans have signed the petition.

Fallon begged the cast “to put their petty differences aside” and reunite to bring fans a little glimmer of happiness. (Apparently, Fallon watched the Saved by the Bell E! True Hollywood Story that detailed the romantic off-screen entanglements between the cast members.

So what do you think? Would you like to see the cast all together again and find out what they’re doing these days? Or would you rather leave the show a fond memory and not find out if Zach is balding and Kelly has wrinkles?

Check out Fallon’s tribute to Saved by the Bell and his petition to reunite the cast.

Friday Night Lights renewed

2009-03-31T12:04:00.000-07:00

Hip, hip, hooray! Hip, hip, hooray!

NBC has renewed Friday Night Lights for two more seasons, according to TV Guide.

The show will continue in the same format it has this season, with episodes airing first on DirecTV early in the year, before being broadcast later on NBC.

There is no word yet on which cast members will stick around next season, but it’s safe to say that at least some of the high school characters are probably headed off to college. (Don’t leave us Tyra!)

Link time

2009-03-23T18:44:00.001-07:00

Here's a look at what the Web's best TV bloggers are talking about this week in the TV Blog Coalition, of which Tube Talk Girl is a proud member.

Some of the show descriptions in this quiz are real pilots, some I've made up. Take the quiz and see if you can spot the fake pilots! (BuzzSugar)

GMMR asked if you were a network exec and could program TV for only one hour out of each day, what would the TV schedule look like? (Give Me My Remote)

You know a show is going to be good when it manages to equally upset the liberal communists (who think the show pushes a Christian agenda) and the religious nutjobs (who think the show pushes a gay agenda). Scooter endorses Kings if only because they cast Mr. Boston in the lead role. (Scooter McGavin's 9th Green)

Vance is enjoying the shows no one is watching. Like newbies Kings and Better Off Ted or old faves Ugly Betty and Lost amongst many others. (Tapeworthy)

This week, Jace talked to Joss Whedon about his "Man on the Street" episode of FOX's Dollhouse, why Dollhouse seems to lack the funny, and whether he would be leaving television for good. (Televisionary)

Sara celebrated the fact that Chuck was back to wearing ascots on the latest episode of Gossip Girl. (TiFaux)

Jennifer contemplated why Ugly Betty Suarez is such a man magnet. (Tube Talk)

Steve got his hands on a copy of next week's Gossip Girl and recapped it for your spoilerly pleasure (TVFanatic)

Ben celebrated the enws that BBC3 had bought the UK rights to the new murder mystery Harper's Island and took a look at it spin-off web series Harper's Globe. (TV Spy)

Ugly Betty, the man magnet

2009-03-20T06:48:00.000-07:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Betty Suarez is a man magnet. Seriously, the girl attracts more men than the Playboy mansion.

Last season, accountant Henry and sandwich-guy Gio were fighting over her. Then, she moved on to her musician neighbor for a fleeting moment, and now she’s landed a billionaire named Matt.

Betty is rocking the mojo.

What is it about Betty that men find irresistible? By today’s standards for beauty, she doesn’t fit the profile. In fact, she’s the exact opposite. She’s short and stocky, has braces, bushy eyebrows, and an unflattering hairstyle. She wears glasses, and her wardrobe is so mismatched, if I didn’t know better, I’d think Betty was colorblind.

Yet, she always seems to have a man seeking her attention. I have plenty of single girl friends who want to know Betty’s secret. Maybe it’s those red glasses. On second thought, the glasses didn’t work for Sally Jesse Raphael.

Perhaps it’s Betty’s perkiness or perpetual optimism that men find attractive. Maybe nice girls don’t finish last. (Someone should tell Amanda; the girl could use a date.)

At this rate, Daniel will be the next to fall for Betty. She clearly doesn’t know her own power. Oh wait, I think they already did that in the Spanish version of the show and it didn’t work well. I’m just saying, Daniel, beware. Betty Suarez is apparently more loveable than any of us ever imagined.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: One Tree Hill is back

2009-03-20T06:37:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Gouveia

One Tree Hill is finally back with a new episode, and it was a doozy. What a rollercoaster ride! One minute I was happy and loving the adorable Nathan and Haley scenes, then the next I was crying over Lucas and Peyton’s devastating situation. Then we had Mouth and Millie’s seemingly last goodbye and Brooke and Julian came to a crossroads in their relationship. It was definitely a jam-packed episode, full of revelations and heartbreak. But what does it all mean for the future of this show?

Is Peyton really a goner? Would the writers of this show actually kill off Peyton Sawyer, or is this a fake out? Well, by the way Peyton was talking to Lucas it looks like she has accepted her fate. I can understand her decision of going through with the pregnancy, even if it means that she could die. A parent’s love is about sacrifice, right? I give the show credit for bringing up this issue, but I’m not sure why it had to be this way. Are we looking at a season seven of One Tree Hill with Lucas raising a baby on his own? Would any of you be interested in watching that?

I loved all of Nathan and Haley’s scenes together. Their private anniversary celebration with some nods to It’s a Wonderful Life was really cute and a long time coming. We finally got some romantic Naley and it seems like it’s been forever. With all the crazy nanny stuff and Nathan’s basketball career, it was nice to see these two reconnect again. It looks like Haley might be going back on tour again but with her family this time. I don’t know how that’s going to work with Jamie, but we’ll see what happens. I for one would love to see Haley pick up a guitar again and actually have a storyline.

Julian dropped the l-word on Brooke and she totally freaked. He loves her but she was not ready to say it back to him. Julian put it together that the last person that Brooke fell in love with was Lucas. Even though he said he would wait for her, he is feeling completely insecure about her past with Lucas. Can we really blame him? Look what happened to his relationship with Peyton. I loved his line about if he found more than one copy of Lucas’ book he was leaving. I think it was a little too soon for the “I love you” so I can understand where Brooke is coming from. But is that really the reason why she couldn’t say it?

It was nice to see Dan and Deb in the same room again, even if it was only because Jamie conveniently forgot to mention he was inviting Grandpa Dan for dinner. Their confrontation was really intense. I keep having to remind myself not to like Dan, but I just love his scenes with Jamie. It makes me want that beeper to go off, so Jamie doesn’t lose his grandpa. Well, it looks like I got what I wanted. Let’s just hope that new heart is not from someone we know. It can’t be Millie’s, right? Although she was really distraught while she was driving. Hmm.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

TV blog links

2009-03-16T11:34:00.000-07:00

Here's a look at what the Web's best TV bloggers are talking about this week in the TV Blog Coalition, of which Tube Talk Girl is a proud member.

With news of Leighton Meester landing a film role, Buzz wondered which TV actors could shine on the big screen. (BuzzSugar)

This week, Sandie shared the first pictures of Alex O'Loughlin in Criminal Minds (Daemon's TV)

Yeah we have seen this story before, but Castle just may turn out to be watchable. (Scooter McGavin's 9th Green)

Vance is loving the new Degrassi kids, meanwhile, some of the old ones are going to Hollywood, while a few in real life are starring in a play in Toronto! (Tapeworthy)

Missing Lost this week? Jace might not have a new episode of the ABC drama to tide you over until your latest fix but he does have video of his interviews with showrunners Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse and series stars Matthew Fox, Evangeline Lilly, and Michael Emerson... along with a few spoilers. (Televisionary)

Although not usually one to pick a fight, Dan expressed some annoyance with the portrayal of gay folks on SNL and Bromance. (TiFaux)

Jennifer pondered why there are no big stars on Dancing With the Stars and who will die on Smallville, while Ashley took a swing at TV's best musical moments. (Tube Talk)

Raoul talked to Kris and Amanda from The Amazing Race. (TV Filter)

This week, we listed 5 reasons why KINGS could help rebuild NBC's empire (the TV Addict)

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Favorite musical moments on TV

2009-03-13T07:55:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Gouveia

Has there ever been a time when you’re watching your favorite television show and then an amazing song starts playing during a crucial and pivotal scene and suddenly you are clamoring, trying to find out who sings it and how fast you can get it on your iPod? I have been there and done that so many times that I’ve lost count. Before the iPod was invented a big part of my CD collection had songs that had once been played behind some of my beloved and most memorable moments. These are my picks for my favorite “musical” moments on television.

Dawson’s Creek, Season one finale - “I’ll Be” by Edwin McCain: How could anyone forget the moment when Joey finally decided that she was going to fess up about her feelings towards her best friend, Dawson? She climbed up the ladder to his room and saw Dawson lying in bed with Jen. It was the moment that had been building the entire season. Was Dawson going to go after Joey or stay with Jen? Edwin McCain’s song was perfect for this scene. I remember hearing it and immediately falling in love with it. To this day when I hear “I’ll Be” I still think of that episode.

Smallville, Season one, “Obscura” and “Crush” – “No Such Thing” by John Mayer and “Time after Time” by Eva Cassidy: I think one of the reasons why I fell in love with Smallville in the beginning of the series was because of all the fantastic music they featured in each episode. Yeah, whatever happened to that? These two episodes in season one were two of my favorites. The Cyndi Lauper classic covered by Eva Cassidy was the perfect backdrop for setting the scene as Lana stared at Clark standing in the rain waiting for her, while a heartbroken Chloe watched on. A wet Tom Welling was only the icing on the cake. The song made it even more amazing. And John Mayer’s hit still brings me back to when Clark asked Chloe to the Spring Formal. It completely captured the mood of two people taking the next step in their relationship.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Season one, “Angel”- “I’ll Remember You” by Sophie Zelmani: Buffy and Angel’s long-awaited first kiss couldn’t have had a better song to accompany it. The Bronze always had some great music playing but this one topped my list. I loved that the whole song was played and the last shot we saw was Angel’s chest where Buffy’s cross burned him after they kissed. It was the beginning of a great love story.

Supernatural, Season one, “Carry on my Wayward Son” by Kansas: Okay, I was tempted to put every Supernatural “previously on” on this list but I narrowed it down to this one. Not only is this an amazing song but it completely fits Supernatural to a tee. The lyrics only rang truer coming after the episode when Sam was stabbed and killed. This song has really become a Supernatural anthem.

Those are my some of my picks for my favorite musical moments. There are so many that I can’t fit it into one column. Let me know some of your faves in the comments!

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Who will die this season on Smallville?

2009-03-12T21:00:00.000-07:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

It’s not a complete season of Smallville until someone bites it.

Sometimes, the presumed-dead individuals stay six-feet under. (Oh, how I miss you Pa Kent.) Other times, the “dead” end up sipping lattes at the Talon. (Lana, Lex and Chloe, I’m talking to you.)

If you read spoilers, then you’ve heard the news for this season’s finale. If you don’t like spoilers, stop reading now. Supposedly, there are two deaths coming, one a veteran and the other a newcomer. Both deaths will be permanent, according to the show runners.

So, place your bets. Who do you think will take the dirt nap this season? After discussions with my Smallville pals, my money is on Tess as the newcomer. She’s not necessary to any one storyline or the Superman mythos, so I think she’s disposable.

As for the vet, my friend Mary Kay suggested Martha Kent may be the one to go, and I fear Mary Kay may be right. It makes the most sense, by a process of elimination. We know that Lana becomes a superhero herself, according to a recent episode. So, it can’t be her. And what other vet is left to kill, other than Chloe?

I don’t think the show honchos will kill Chloe. They’ve done it before, a couple times, and fans lost their minds, only to have Chloe resurrected. Chloe is the most popular character on the show, next to Clark Kent. I can’t imagine that Smallville would show her the door, unless it was the final season and final episode.

The only other vets who remain alive are both off canvas: Pete Ross and Martha Kent. Perhaps it will be Pete who goes to the great beyond, but if the show is looking for another emotional blow for young Clark, killing Martha is the way to go. But I’m going on the record to say that I’ll dread watching that episode, if it ever transpires.

Who do you think will end up with a toe tag? Discuss in the comments below.

Where are the “stars” on Dancing With the Stars?

2009-03-10T13:51:00.000-07:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Last night, Dancing With the Stars debuted to its most-watched premiere ever. As I sat through the two-hour show, I couldn’t help but wonder, “Where are the stars?”

With the exception of a few of the contestants, most of the celebrities this season are D-list talent at best. I’m sorry, but I don’t count an unknown actor, several reality actresses, and a former ‘80s pop queen “stars.” No offense to any of these folks, who I’m sure will do a great job on the show, but ABC is billing this show as dancing with the STARS. And frankly, I’m not seeing it.

When I was a kid, (back when 8-track tapes were all the rage) we had a show called Circus of the Stars. And when I say stars, I mean stars. The celebrities that participated were all from popular TV shows or other entertainment genres. They would try their hands at circus acts, whether it was the trapeze, the tight rope, riding elephants, dagger throwing, etc. I loved watching the stars defy death with their acts. And the list of celebrities was impressive: Scott Baio, Sammy Davis Jr., Lynda Carter, Patrick Duffy, Whoopi Goldberg, Jennie Garth, Lauren Bacall, Peter Fonda, Ed Asner, Erik Estrada, Deidre Hall, James Earl Jones, Bob Newhart, Rick Schroder, William Shatner, Brooke Shields, O.J. Simpson and many more.

Yes, it was the ‘70s and ‘80s so perhaps it was a little easier to get stars on board for a fun reality show. But, I can’t help but wonder how much better Dancing With the Stars would be, if ABC could actually lure some top-notch celebrities. I bet the ratings would skyrocket, if we could watch some of our favorites put on those dancing shoes.

Can you imagine if this season’s cast included people we actually wanted to watch? Imagine Steve Carell, Neil Patrick Harris, Patrick Dempsey, Troy Aikman, Chris Rock, Betty White, Julia Louis Dreyfuss, Beyonce, Kate Walsh, Oprah Winfrey, Vanessa Williams, and Dolly Parton competing for the mirror-ball trophy. If you don’t like my list, then consider who you’d like to see steaming up the ballroom.

My point is simply this. The show is called Dancing With the Stars, and each season - with the exception of the athletes - it seems like we see fewer and fewer stars. At this rate, ABC should just rename the show Dancing With People Who Want to Become Stars.

Here’s a list of this year’s contestants:

· Belinda Carlisle & Jonathan Roberts
· David Alan Grier & Kym Johnson
· Jewel & Dmitry Chaplin
· Shawn Johnson & Mark Ballas
· Lil' Kim & Derek Hough
· Gilles Marini & Cheryl Burke
· Ty Murray & Chelsie Hightower
· Steve-O & Lacey Schwimmer
· Nancy O'Dell & Tony Dovolani
· Denise Richards & Maksim Chmerkovskiy
· Lawrence Taylor & Edyta Sliwinska
· Chuck Wicks & Julianne Hough
· Steve Wozniak & Karina Smirnoff

2009-03-09T07:54:00.000-07:00

Here's a look at what the Web's best TV bloggers are talking about this week in the TV Blog Coalition, of which Tube Talk Girl is a proud member.

Buzz had a blast moderating the Chuck panel at WonderCon in San Francisco — check out her recap of the proceedings! (BuzzSugar)

Is a "bad" U2 album still better than anything else on the radio? Scooter puts that theory to the test with the release of No Line on the Horizon. (Scooter McGavin's 9th Green)

Vance has his ~~dukes~~ claws up and is ready to totally defend The Bachelor's Jason Mesnick for dumping that harpy Melissa and getting back with Molly. Maybe it's a guy thing (and sees nothing wrong with it), but Vance is totally ready to take this outside. (Tapeworthy)

This week, Jace took another look back at the New Romantics era by taking second look at BBC America's Ashes to Ashes. (Televisionary)

Dan may have misgivings about musical comedy as a genre -- but even he is excited about the idea of Victor Garber and Kristin Chenoweth on the new show Glee. (TiFaux)

Jennifer was shocked to see the huge ratings for Tom Selleck's TV movie and wondered why Magnum P.I. can't make it to the big screen. (Tube Talk)

Matt's hidden camera inside the bedroom of Jennifer Love Hewitt proves she isn't actually knocked up - so there must be a little Ghost Whisperer in Melinda Gordan's future. (TV Fanatic)

Special relationship or not, we Brits get to see Lost a week or so later than our cousins across the Pond. And so, better late than never, Ben tries to make sense of The Life and Death of Jeremy Bentham. (TV Spy)

Don't miss any of March Sweep's big TV events with our downloadable and printable March TV 2009 Calendar (The TV Addict)

Why can’t Magnum P.I. get to the big screen?

2009-03-03T12:01:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Tom Selleck proved he’s still got it when it comes to TV ratings. His TV movie Jessie Stone: Thin Ice scored more than 15 million viewers on Sunday night. But the real movie everyone wants to see him in, according to Selleck, is Magnum P.I. on the big screen. Yes, even all these years later.

So, why can’t this film get made? Selleck is still a fan favorite, as evidenced from his continuous TV-ratings wins and public adoration at Hollywood events. And Magnum P.I. still has an audience in syndication, both here and abroad.

In a recent interview, Selleck said his friend Tom Clancy had written a script years ago, but the studios and Hollywood bigwigs could never come to an agreement on the film. Can you say “idiotic?” A Tom Clancy script and Tom Selleck as the lead, it was money in the bank. This film should have been made in the 1990s, not long after the show ended. But it’s not too late. Or maybe it is, considering the recent trend in movie making.

There is a new era in Hollywood these days, one of teen-driven silly films, many of which are populated with sexual shenanigans and bathroom humor. Then, there are the truly sadistic horror movies that seem to celebrate evil through the most disgusting, vile, graphic images possible. And if that’s not enough to entice you, there’s always the latest meaningful drama, showcasing misery from a war, or Nazi Germany, or any other traumatic event in our nation’s history that leaves me so despondent I want to gauge out my eyes.

When I see the crop of movies being made, I have to ask myself how these juvenile films ever get produced, but a movie about Magnum P.I. could not. It’s one of life’s greatest mysteries. Generations from now will be able to watch Superbad, but not a character film about a Vietnam war vet who charmed us with his sleuthing skills and adolescent love for life.

Selleck is a proven entity, and guess what movie studios, not all of us want to see the current slop being turned out. You seem to have forgotten that good storytelling is the crux of a good film. Remember when movies actually had plots and characters that got us excited? I think a couple of them actually won Oscars this year.

Selleck said even after all these years, he always wins the polls about who fans want to play Magnum P.I. on the big screen. With apologies to Matthew McConaughey and every other A list actor who has been mentioned as a candidate for Magnum the film, there is no other actor to do this part. Sorry. Magnum was a character-based show, so changing the main character is a recipe for disaster.

Selleck said he wants to do the film, but not if it’s just to see how everyone has aged. He wants a decent script that won’t lampoon the show. I couldn’t agree more. I can’t imagine what those movie producers, who love to take TV shows and mock them, would do with Magnum’s rubber chicken.

Blogger link time

2009-03-01T20:03:00.000-08:00

Here's a look at what the Web's best TV bloggers are talking about this week in the TV Blog Coalition, of which Tube Talk Girl is a proud member.

Does Nick "Normund Gentle" Mitchell deserve another chance at the American Idol crown? (BuzzSugar)

This week, Sandie shared an interview with the lovely Bridget Regan (Kahlan) from Legend of the Seeker (Daemon's TV)

A day before it was leaked that NBC was considering bringing back I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! Scooter talked to the original host John Lehr about his experience on the show. (Scooter McGavin's 9th Green)

Vance loved the season finales for Privileged and Leverage. While Leverage has been picked up for Season 2, here's hoping Privileged returns too. (Tapeworthy)

This week, Jace was thrilled by Lost and Damages but also admitted his secret love for animated series like Batman: The Brave and the Bold and Wolverine and the X-Men. (Televisionary)

What's a hipster to do? Marisa pre-emptively fought back against those who would ridicule her devotion to American Idol. (TiFaux)

This week, the TV Addict offered up his how-to guide for becoming a hugely successful television reporter (The TV Addict)

Raoul talked to Charlie from Hell's Kitchen about making sauce, hitting the sauce and everything Ramsay. (TV Filter)

After watching the Grey’s Anatomy-Private Practice crossover, Jennifer came to one conclusion: Addison Montgomery needs to go back to Seattle Grace. STAT. (Tube Talk)

Grey’s Anatomy needs Addison Montgomery

2009-02-27T09:51:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

After watching the Private Practice-Grey’s Anatomy crossover, one thing is clear. Seattle Grace needs Addison Montgomery.

When she left the show for the Private Practice spin-off, I was sorely disappointed. She was one of my favorite characters on Grey’s, until she down spiraled and slept with Alex. But I digress.

Grey’s Anatomy has suffered without Addison. This season, we’ve watched tortured Izzie have a fling with a ghost, Callie trying out life as a lesbian, and Bailey turning into a softer surgeon with an eye on pediatrics. George, who used to be a highlight, has had about five minutes of screen time, Cristina is the same as always, except angrier, and Meredith, well, she’s still Meredith, treating her sister like dirt, wallowing in her depression, and looking forward to a life with McDreamy.

Grey’s lost its punch after Addison departed. Maybe it’s all the behind-the-scenes drama having an effect, with rumors swirling daily that Katherine Heigl and T.R. Knight both want out of the show. I’m not sure. But I know the show had its sparkle back for those two brief crossover episodes.

Kate Walsh has off-the-charts chemistry with Patrick Dempsey and Eric Dane, is a valued pal for Dr. Bailey, and breathes excitement into every scene. I didn’t realize how much I missed her as part of the ensemble, until she was back walking the halls of Seattle Grace.

I loved the little details the Grey’s writers gave us about Derek and Addison’s past, during the crossover. He wrote her a song for their wedding! (Admittedly, that little ditty was stuck in my head for a couple days, after Taye Diggs and the gang broke out in song, “Addison Montgomery, I met her in the summer. She…” Hilarious.) I'm sorry to all the Mer-Der fans out there, but Addison and Derek have a long history that is compelling and needs to be further explored.

Please, Addison, come back to Grey’s Anatomy. We need you.

CW renews Smallville, One Tree Hill, Gossip Girl and others

2009-02-27T08:55:00.000-08:00

The CW made a lot of folks happy this week with its pick-up announcements.

The network is renewing most of its popular shows for next season, including Smallville, One Tree Hill, Gossip Girl, Supernatural, America’s Top Model, and the freshman drama 90210.

Unfortunately, my favorite new show of the season, Privileged, has not received the green light for renewal yet. The network is still deciding its fate. Hello, CW! What are you waiting for? The show rocks.

Also, Reaper, The Game, and Everybody Hates Chris have not been renewed yet either. That doesn’t mean they’ve been cancelled; it just means the network hasn’t decided yet whether it wants them for next season.

Of all the shows renewed, I’m most shocked that One Tree Hill got a pick-up. The show seems to have outlived its original appeal for me. Plus, rumors are swirling that star Chad Michael Murray has not officially committed for the new season. If there is one thing I hate, it’s when shows limp on past their primes, especially without the original cast that made them magical.

I’m also a little stunned that Smallville was renewed, too. Don’t get me wrong; the show is back on track this season, after last year’s debacle, but I’m concerned about what more they can possibly do to Clark Kent, without actually turning him into Superman. He’s already working at The Daily Planet, fighting crime with Green Arrow, and flirting with Lois Lane.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: The Oscars 2009

2009-02-25T05:39:00.000-08:00

by Ashley Gouveia

I had fully prepared myself for my Oscar rundown to have more lowlights than highlights. I love the Academy Awards and what they stand for, but the actual awards’ presentation can be a little boring at times. However, I am happy to say that this year’s telecast was really enjoyable, not boring at all. There were so many great speeches and beautiful dedications. The entire format of the show was different than years before, but change can be good thing.

Many people have occupied the spot of host, like Hugh Jackman did Sunday night. Some have hit it out of the park and others have left little to be desired. I was rooting for Mr. Wolverine himself to pull it off with flying colors, and he did. His opening number was spectacular and truly showcased that he can act and sing, too. I loved when he pulled Anne Hathaway from the audience and made it a duet. That girl can sing! Also, she can pull off a hilarious Nixon impersonation. Well done, Anne.

What I loved about this year’s Oscars was how they didn’t just showcase the films that were nominated. They took time to also show movies that weren’t deemed by some to be “Oscar-worthy”. They did that by showing movie montages that focused on romance action and animation. Well, my favorite was the Romance in 20008 spot, and I’ll tell you all why. The first reason is because it showed some of my favorite moments in last year’s movies. Secondly, it was presented by the amazingly adorable Robert Pattinson. Any of you who have seen Twilight know what I’m talking about right now.

When the major awards were given out, recipients from the past came out on stage and presented them to the nominees. It wasn’t just the boring way of reading the name off the teleprompter this year. Each presenter was assigned a nominee and they gave a little speech about what that person had accomplished in his/her role. I’m not embarrassed to say that some of those speeches had me choked up. Anne Hathaway could barely hold back the tears and neither could Best Actress winner Kate Winslet. I loved Kate’s acceptance speech. Come on, who hasn’t held up the bottle of shampoo and imagined it was an Oscar? We’ve all done it.

The brilliant Sean Penn won for his performance in MILK which was shocking for some. The equally amazing Heath Ledger won for his daunting role as the Joker in the Dark Knight. His family accepted the award on his behalf, and I think that’s when the entire audience started crying. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house.

Some other highlights were Tina Fey and Steve Martin presenting for Best Screenplay and Ben Stiller’s awkward but yet amusing Joaquin Phoenix impression. What did you all think about this year’s Oscars? Was there a favorite moment, a favorite dress? Let me know in the comments.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Happy Valentine’s Day from Saving Grace

2009-02-14T07:21:00.001-08:00

What better way to announce the return date of Saving Grace than with a valentine featuring two of the show’s best assets.

Saving Grace returns to TNT with new episodes on March 2.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Rescue Me returns April 7 and is renewed for next season

2009-02-14T07:12:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Mark your calendars, Tubers. We finally have a date for the return of Rescue Me. Yahoo!

I know; it seems like the show has been off the air for months. Well, it has. But happy days are here again.

The 22-episode fifth season kicks off April 7 at 10 p.m. ET on FX. Michael J. Fox and Maura Tierney are on board for guest-starring arcs. The season finale will air Tuesday, September 8.

If that’s not enough good news for you, then how about this? FX has renewed Rescue Me for a sixth season.

“We’re amazed by the quality of episodes for the upcoming fifth season, which are some of the best they’ve ever produced,” said FX Networks President and General Manager John Landgraf. “I believe this show will continue to maintain a level of excellence for several years to come and we’re thrilled to pick it up for a sixth season. Rescue Me is one of the very best series on television and a tent pole program for FX.”

Finally, Rescue Me Denis Leary is launching an 11-city live comedy tour featuring Leary and his fellow Rescue Me co-stars Adam Ferrara and Lenny Clarke, and other stand-ups. The Rescue Me Comedy Tour will be at Radio City Music Hall in New York on Thursday, April 2 and will include a screening of the first episode of Rescue Me season five. The event will benefit The Leary Firefighters Foundation. For information on the tour schedule visit denisleary.com or get tickets and packages at learyfirefighters.org or by calling 212-343-0240.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: TV's best couples

2009-02-13T08:03:00.000-08:00

by Ashley Gouveia

In honor of Valentine’s Day this Saturday, I decided that this would be the best time to make my list of television’s best and most memorable couples. There have been so many couples over the years that have left an impact on viewers so it was definitely a task to narrow it down. Whether these duos are breaking up, making up, or fighting to the death one cannot deny the sparks that fly in the process.

Buffy and Angel (Buffy the Vampire Slayer): These two were the definition of “star-crossed lovers”. A vampire in love with the Slayer, like Giles once said, “It’s rather poetic.” This couple had everything against them. He was more than 100-years old, and she was a high school student. Not to mention that she killed his species for a living. His basic instinct was to kill her, but instead he fell in love with her. Their story was filled with love and hate, but we never stopped rooting for them. Even when he turned evil and, she was going to kill him, we still hoped they would find a way back to each other. They did, for a while, but like any “star-crossed” couple they split apart. Buffy and Angel’s love story was one of the highlights of the series and deserve the top spot on this list.

Ross and Rachel (Friends): The fans only waited 10 years for these two to finally wake up and realize they belonged together. They had many trials and tribulations in their often-rocky relationship (remember the “we were on a break” debacle?), but they never stopped caring about each other. They were still friends, after all they had been through. Their first kiss at Central Perk is one of those memorable moments in TV history that fans will certainly never forget.

Jack/Kate/Sawyer (Lost): Okay, so I couldn’t choose which pair was better. The truth is that both men have amazing chemistry with Kate. I’m sure there are fans out there who could choose with no problem about which pair they would rather watch onscreen. I think the appeal of these two men with Kate is that they both have a very different type of relationship with her. Jack makes Kate a better person when she’s with him. He helped her through the weirdness that is the island. On many occasions he has been a source of strength for her. Sawyer and Kate have this amazing connection and sizzling attraction. Also, when they are together we get to see a softer side to Sawyer, which is always a nice thing to see.

These are my choices of the best couples of TV past and present. Which couples would make your list? Happy Valentine’s Day!

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Lipstick Jungle hottie Robert Buckley joins Privileged tonight

2009-02-10T10:42:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

I admit it. Robert Buckley is one of the main reasons I kept tuning in to Lipstick Jungle this season. Call me shallow. I don’t mind.

As Kirby on Lipstick Jungle, he not only enthralled Nico, but viewers as well.

Tonight, he joins one of my favorite shows, Privileged, on the CW. If Buckley is half as charming as he was on his last series, then perhaps Will should be a little worried about Megan.

Check out the photos below and the interviews with Buckley and Brian Hallisay, who plays Will.

Hey, it’s a Tuesday. Everyone can use a little man candy, right? Ladies, you’re welcome. (My apologies to Brian Hallisay, who according to the interview below isn’t fond of the terms “hottie” and “man candy.” It’s a shame really because yes, he’s both.)

Thanks to the CW for the photos and video.

Joss Whedon talks Dollhouse

2009-02-09T14:25:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Last week I was invited to a conference call with one of my favorite TV writers: Joss Whedon.

Pinch me.

Yes, that Joss Whedon, of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, and Firefly fame.

Whedon was, of course, funny. Anyone familiar with his writing knows he can turn a phrase so quickly and so humorously that you’re laughing before you realize just how clever he really is.

Whedon participated in the call to speak to journalists about his new TV show Dollhouse, premiering on FOX Friday at 9 p.m. ET.

Dollhouse is set in a futuristic laboratory where the residents are implanted with memories and skills and then assigned various tasks and personas, only to have their memories erased upon the completion of their assignments. They can become anyone. The show centers on Echo, actress Eliza Dushku, (Faith of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.) Echo is beginning to realize who she is and what’s going on.

Here’s a quick recap of the interview. You have to love a guy who can use the words “enounce” and “amorphous” in the same sentence. (See the paragraph where he discusses the genesis of the show.)

Comparing Dollhouse to Whedon’s former shows Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, and Firefly.
Whedon: “There is a lot of fun and a lot of humor in it. What it doesn’t have is an inherent silliness that both Buffy and Firefly had, and even Angel. That was we could just take one step back, that part of the fun was deconstructing the genre we were in. This has to be a little bit more grounded in order for it to play, or it would become campy, and with vampires and spaceships and horses, we had more leeway to be a little less realistic in how we plotted things. But humor is a part of the show all over the place, because we have really funny actors, and these situations do become absurd, and besides, we would get really bored if we didn’t.”

On rewriting the Dollhouse pilot to make the network happier:
Whedon: “Part of the mandate of the show is to make people nervous. It’s to make them identify with people they don’t like and get into situations that they don’t approve of, and also look at some of the heroic side of things and wonder if maybe they were wrong about what motivated those as well. So we’re out to make people uncomfortable, but not maybe so much our bosses…. We had all of the elements, the characters, none of which were changed really, and none of the regular characters, and the premise, the concept, the way we were able to explore what makes us human, all of that is in there. As the season progresses, it ends up going exactly where I had hoped it would go before all of this happened, so I do feel like we got back to our vision in a way that really works for the network. And the last few episodes that we just completed shooting got all of us extraordinarily excited.”

On the Friday night time slot
Whedon: “Honestly, I really do see the opportunity there because the deal with the Friday night time slot was you don’t come out, bang, opening weekend, and it’s all decided. It’s about growing a fan base, both for Dollhouse and Terminator. I think Terminator is a remarkably good show, and the kind of show that makes sense to be paired with Dollhouse, so I feel great about that, plus I get to see all these posters with Summer (Glau) and Eliza together and that’s just too cool. Ultimately, this is a show where people will hopefully become intrigued and then hang in, that really builds, so it needs the 13 weeks, and it needs the 13 weeks of people paying attention, but not so much attention that it gets burned out in the glare of the spotlight. I’ve always worked best under the radar. Most of my shows people have come to after they stopped airing, but I would like to buck that trend, and at the same time, it is part of how I work that you stay with it and it grows on you and it becomes family, and the Friday night is a much better place for that to actually happen.”

On whether he’ll do any of his trademark unique ideas such as having an episode where no one speaks (Buffy), an episode of puppets (Angel) or an all musical episode (Buffy.)
Whedon: “Most of the things I think have been done at some point, and we don’t think it’s done for their own sakes, but one of the exciting things about the show, one of the reasons why we’re excited to have more runs at it is that you can really come at these stories from a lot of different perspectives; from the perspective of a client, from the perspective, as we do in episode six, from the man on the street, from the perspective of obviously Echo or any of the dolls or the people who are running it. But I don’t have anything specific in mind, and no, I’m not planning a Dollhouse musical just yet.”

Commenting on episode two of Dollhouse and why it wasn’t used as the pilot. (I won’t spoil you but the concept is a bit “outrageous.”)
Whedon: “Outrageous is always good. That episode was meant originally to be around episode five, or possibly even eight, and it was the network who said, excuse me, did you say bow hunting? That will come second please, because we already had the pilot working, so it kind of got bumped up further than, but you’re not the first person to say why didn’t you just open with that, and my answer would be I don’t know. I had the other idea first.”

On the genesis of the show and how it began with a lunch with Eliza Dushku
Whedon: “I’m very interested in concepts of identity, what enounce is our own, what’s socialized, can people actually change, what do we expect from each other, how much do we use each other and manipulate each other, and what would we do if we had this kind of power over each other? And in this, our increasingly virtual world, self-definition has become a very amorphous concept, so it just felt what was on my mind. I don’t mean it felt timely like I was trolling the papers looking for something timely. It’s just been something I think about a lot.”

On Dollhouse star Eliza Dushku
Whedon: “She’s overcome her homely shyness over these years. Eliza is, apart from being, in my opinion, as great a star as I have ever known; she has a genuinely powerful electric and luminous quality that I’ve rarely seen. She’s also a really solid person. She’s a good friend. She’s a feminist. She’s an activist. She’s interested in the people around her. She has a lot of different things going on, and I’ve watched her over the years, as a friend, try to take control of her career, and try to get the roles that weren’t available to her, and protect the ethos and the message of what it was that she was doing, and I respect that enormously. Being part of that progression is, for me, one of the greatest benefits of this show.”

Dollhouse premieres this Friday at 9 p.m. ET on FOX.

Behind the scenes of Dollhouse

2009-02-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Jossverse.

Joss Whedon fans, here’s the latest clip of life on the set of his new TV show Dollhouse.

Thanks to my friends at FOX for sharing the clip.

Dollhouse premieres this Friday at 9 p.m. ET.

Brothers and Sisters introduces Ryan Walker

2009-02-09T09:02:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Last night on Brothers and Sisters, we got our first glimpse of the newest Walker sibling.

Actor Luke Grimes snagged the part. I’m not familiar with Grimes’ work, but I wish him and his character the best of luck. Going into the crazy Walker family, he’s going to need it.

As you know, I was lobbying for Matt Long to get the part. I was hoping Greg Berlanti would hear my plea. Sadly, Long won’t be joining the Walker clan.

We don’t know much about Ryan, only that he attends the Berklee School of Music and that his mother passed away.

It will be interesting to see how Ryan handles the Walker dinner parties. Here’s a tip Ryan: bring your own bottle.

CW contest: Who wants to win $10,000?

2009-02-09T08:57:00.000-08:00

The CW network is looking for “environmentally conscious video enthusiasts” to take part in the “Green Your World” contest Free 2 Be Green campaign.

The winner will receive $10,000, be featured online at CWTV.com and possibly on the CW network during Earth Week.

To take part, viewers must produce their own video (two minutes maximum in length) explaining how they actively work to “green their world” and upload it to CWTV. Participants who do not have access to video equipment can submit a 150-word essay explaining their dedication to helping the environment.

Five finalists will be selected to each produce a series of four (one per week) video blogs (or vlogs) about their contributions to the environment and making their communities a better place for everyone. The winner will be chosen from the five.

The deadline is February 16, 2009.

For complete details, guidelines, rules and restrictions regarding the “Green Your World” sweepstakes, please go to www.cwtv.com/greenyourworld.

Good luck!

90210: Meet the new Dylan

2009-02-09T07:46:00.000-08:00

Move over Luke Perry, there’s a new “Dylan” in Beverly Hills 90210, and he doesn’t have sideburns.

The new bad boy to hit 90210 is actor Matt Lanter. His character’s name is Liam.

I’m not sure yet if he reads the classics and drives a motorcycle like the old “Dylan,” but with a face like that, I’m sure the ladies won’t care.

Liam premieres on this Tuesday’s show as a mysterious guy working at the hotel where Naomi (AnnaLynne McCord) currently lives. You can guess what happens next, as shown in the photo below.

Catch 90210 on the CW at 8 p.m. ET Tuesday.

Dancing With the Stars reveals cast

2009-02-08T21:33:00.000-08:00

ABC released the names of the new cast of Dancing With the Stars Sunday night. It seems a little light on the “stars” part if you ask me.

Sadly, there’s only one name on the list that gets me remotely excited: country music star Chuck Wicks, who just happens to be the real-life boyfriend of Dancing champ Julianne Hough. (Allegedly, the two are dancing together, so be warned, it could get steamy.)

As for the rest of the dancers, ABC is staying true to form with its traditional cast cocktail: a couple comediennes - David Alan Grier and Jackass star Steve-O; several musicians - Jewel, Rapper Lil' Kim, and former Go-Go's frontwoman Belinda Carlisle; a millionaire mogul - Apple Computers co-founder Steve Wozniak; an actress and an actor - Denise Richards and Gilles Marini, aka "the naked guy from the Sex and the City movie; and plenty of athletes - rodeo star Ty Murray, (who happens to be married to fellow contestant Jewel), football great Lawrence Taylor, and Olympic gold medallist Shawn Johnson. Also dancing this season is Access Hollywood host Nancy O’Dell, who reminds me of a real-life Barbie.

I guess the good news is that Donny Osmond isn’t on the list, despite his earlier claim that he’d be doing the show.

So what do you think of this season’s contestants? Are you disappointed, excited, or ambivalent at this point?

The new season debuts March 9 at 8 p.m. ET.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Superbowl commericals

2009-02-06T11:31:00.000-08:00

by Ashley Gouveia

While many people tuned in to the Super Bowl last Sunday to see which team, the Arizona Cardinals or the Pittsburgh Steelers, would walk away as the champions, I have to admit I wasn’t one of them. To be perfectly honest, my football season pretty much ends when the New England Patriots stop playing. I instead tuned in to watch the numerous ads that were sure to get people talking. Here are my choices of some of the most memorable.

Heroes of the Gridiron: I loved this commercial! Not only was it of one of my favorite shows, (yes, I’m still watching!) but it was great to see the cast in a fun setting like that. It was the Heroes vs. NFL legends. Peter, Nathan, Claire, Hiro, Ando and Parkman were all in attendance. Even Noah and Mama Petrelli were on the sidelines which was awesome. I loved when Claire charged in and broke all her bones and then Ando told Hiro to “save the cheerleader” and he yelled “Later!” I thought that was hysterical. As well as Hiro’s little dance after completing a big play. Jerry Rice called in reinforcements with a flying John Elway making an appearance. Parkman’s line about him knowing that Elway was one of them had me laughing. This was definitely one of my favorite commercials of the night.

Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head for Bridgestone: Who didn’t have a Mr. Potato Head at one time in their life? I certainly did. So when I saw this commercial I thought it was really funny. Mrs. Potato Head was driving in the car with her husband and she won’t stop nagging him. They almost hit a bunch of sheep and when they come to a stop her mouth falls off and over the cliff. While I’m sure this made Mr. Potato Head happy, Mrs. Potato Head then switched her eyes to those of extreme anger and fury. If she can’t verbalize her frustration she’s was going to give him the death stare.

Audi 2009- Car chase: How can a commercial go wrong when it has Jason Statham in it? It really can’t. The actor from Transporter fame goes through the last couple of decades to find the perfect getaway car. It’s not until he arrived in 2009 did he find the one that was just right. I think Lost’s Hurley needs to get himself this car, pronto.

LMAO Syndrome-NBC Thursday lineup: I think this was the ad that made me laugh the most. Of course, after watching this I had the urge to hold my laughter in. The woman with the cooler, the unsuspecting woman who laughed her butt off, literally, when watching the Thursday night comedy lineup were all hysterical. It was a clever commercial that took a much-used online acronym in the literal sense.

What was your favorite Super Bowl ad? Let me know in the comments.

Check out my favorite below.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Reaper returning on March 3; 90210 schedule change

2009-02-04T11:17:00.000-08:00

The Devil is back!

Those of you patiently waiting for the return of Reaper on the CW, the wait is over.

The CW is moving up the return of Reaper to March 3 from the previously announced March 17 date. The show will air on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET.

Reaper will air 13 consecutive episodes and wrap up with its season finale on May 26.

Meanwhile, 90210 is changing its timeslot. It’s moving to 9 p.m. ET on Tuesdays. 90210 will air eight consecutive episodes from March 31 through the season finale on May 19.

And finally, the season finale of Privileged will air on Tuesday, February 24 at 9 p.m. ET. Yes, I’m sad, too. I love Sage and Rose. They will be missed.

To celebrate the return of Reaper, check out this video below, but disregard the March 17 date. Once again, it’s now March 3.

Trust Me fails to captivate

2009-02-04T09:58:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Let me preface this review by saying that I love Tom Cavanagh and Eric McCormack.

But not even this dynamic duo got me interested enough in the new TNT series Trust Me to give it a slot on my busy DVR.

Set in the world of advertising, Trust Me follows two creative partners struggling in the high-pressure world of advertising. Who knew advertising was such a cut-throat business?

Not me. If Trust Me is any real reflection of what goes on in the ad world, then I’m glad I didn’t choose that career.

Trust Me is so serious at times it’s downright depressing. It’s advertising, people. It’s not like it’s a hospital or a law firm setting, where characters are actually determining the fate of people’s lives. Yet, the plots make it feel that way.

Cavanagh and McCormack excel at comedy and dramedy. Sadly, they get little of either in this show. Chalked full of office politics, professional jealousies and co-worker conflicts, on paper, it seems that Trust Me would work on every level. It doesn’t.

If you’re fans of Cavanagh and McCormack, then you should check out the show and decide for yourselves. But trust me, I cannot endorse this one.

Trust Me airs Mondays at 10 p.m. ET on TNT.

Scrubs ending this year

2009-02-02T14:40:00.000-08:00

Photo: Scrubs' star Zach Braff

Speculate no more. Scrubs is finished.

Creator Bill Lawrence announced that the show will end after this season, during a talk at his alma mater, the College of William and Mary, according to The Daily Press.

Scrubs is currently in its eight season. It spent seven years on the NBC network, before jumping to ABC this year.

A new crop of interns was introduced this season with the idea that the show potentially could continue if star Zach Braff left this year. But, Lawrence and Braff decided it was time to go.

Thank you, Mr. Lawrence. There’s nothing worse than watching a show that was once spectacular disintegrate into something that barely resembles its former self. (Hello, Dawson’s Creek.)

Lawrence spilled some details about what will happen this season. We’ll finally learn the janitor’s name. Yes, he has one, other than “Janitor.” And Ted will get a girlfriend who shares his love of music.

So what do you think, Tubers? Are you happy that Scrubs will go out on a high note, or were you hoping it would stick around another year with the new cast?

Yeah, I already know the answer, but feel free to tell me otherwise in the comments below.

Welcome “Raj” to Nip/Tuck

2009-01-29T13:37:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

If you caught the first two episodes of Nip/Tuck you may have thought you were watching Aliens in America meet Grey’s Anatomy. You weren’t. But you were seeing one of TV’s finest comedy actors in his new role.

Aliens in America alumnus, Adhir Kalyan, who played the adorable Raja on the CW comedy has joined Nip/Tuck as a young genius plastic surgeon. Humorously, his character’s name is Dr. Raj. Clearly, the Nip/Tuck folks loved Raja as much as I did and gave him the moniker of “Raj” in honor of his Aliens character.

Nip/Tuck gets the award for best casting coup this season. Kalyan is always spectacular, and he didn’t disappoint in his first two episodes.

However, please Nip/Tuck writers, do not ever force me to watch another sexual scene starring Kalyan again. He’s my little Raja, not Christian Troy! Raj shouldn’t be having sex, especially the kind of depraved shenanigans he was part of last week. Leave the butt bearing to Sean and Christian, please.

And welcome “Raj” to Nip/Tuck. I hope you are a good influence and a role model for the boys. Lord knows they could use one.

George Clooney returning to ER

2009-01-29T10:28:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

You win, NBC. You win.

For the past eight years since Dr. Doug Ross left ER, I’ve managed to avoid the show. Even when NBC ran those annoying ads declaring an episode “the most shocking ER ever,” I stood firm. Even when Shane West put on a pair of scrubs and joined the cast, I refused to get sucked into the drama again.

But now, NBC has managed to convince George Clooney to reprise his role as Dr. Ross for an appearance in the final season. So, you can bet your bedpan that I’ll be tuning in.

Clooney will reunite with actress Julianna Margulies, who played his on-screen lover Carol Hathaway, according to Entertainment Tonight. Doug and Carol back together again? I’m in.

And if that’s not enough to entice you, rumor has it that Susan Sarandon joined Clooney for his episode.

NBC is being quite crafty in releasing information about Clooney’s return. I’m guessing the network doesn’t want to tell us specifically when his episode will air, so we’ll tune in for more than just the finale.

So, yes, NBC score one for you. You’ve managed to get this viewer that hasn’t watched ER in almost a decade to check out the show.

The series finale of ER is scheduled to air on April 2, preceded by a one-hour retrospective.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Did Lost sizzle or fizzle?

2009-01-23T08:20:00.000-08:00

by Ashley Gouveia

Lost is back!

Is it too early to say better than ever?

I don’t know about the rest of you, but I actually had to watch the hour recap show. It’s been way too long since the Losties were on my tube, and I needed a little refresher. It also got me pumped for the season five premiere. Is Locke really dead? What happened to Sawyer and the rest of the gang back on the island? Did Jack finally shave off that awful beard?

Thankfully, he did do just that. But not before Ben convinced him that he had to get all of the Oceanic Six and a dead Locke back to the island. Apparently, Locke had gone to the mainland and told Jack that terrible things happened after they left. Then we got a series of flashbacks in which we saw just exactly what those “terrible” things were.

I don’t claim to be an expert on the time space continuum, but I was surprisingly keeping up with Daniel’s synopsis on what was going on. It wasn’t exactly just the island that was moving but its people were also moving through time. Sawyer, Juliet and the others went into the past and future. They even went to the point where Ethan Rayne was still alive and kicking. Crazy, right? I loved that we got to see the island and what happened after Jack and company left.

Back in the future, Jack tried to rally up the troops. That task turned out to be a lot more difficult what with Hurley being chased by the cops, Ana Lucia’s ghost not included. I was not expecting to see her back; that was a nice little twist. The little bit that we saw of Desmond was great. I loved that Daniel got him to open up the hatch and told him to go to Oxford where they first met. Then Desmond woke up three years later and believed it was a memory.

Can I say that Sun is scaring me? She was completely creepy during her meeting with Kate. One minute she was serious and the next she was drained of all emotion. She is out for revenge, and I don’t think anyone should stand in her way. I was not expecting Hurley to turn himself into the cops to escape Ben. After all, he was the one who was always saying they never should have left the island. I thought he would have been the first one in that line.

What did you all think of the Lost premiere? Are they all going to go back no matter what? What exactly happened to Sawyer and Juliet that caused Locke to leave the island to get the Oceanic Six back? Let me know your theories in the comments.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Veronica Mars movie in the works

2009-01-22T08:29:00.000-08:00

Yes, Tube Talk readers, there is a Santa Claus.

I asked Jolly ol’ St. Nick to give us Veronica Mars fans a movie on the big screen. And according to Mars' creator Rob Thomas, he’s working on the script and star Kristen Bell is on board, too.

Thank you, Santa. (And Rob Thomas, too!)

I know it’s a long way from completion at this point and Thomas probably still has to find money and a studio for the project, but I’m not worried. Studio executives, if you’re reading this, please invest in this film. You need to FINALLY make some smart, funny, entertaining movies with female leads that don’t resort to bathroom humor, sex jokes or boring melodrama.

Veronica Mars is intelligent, suave, funny, and a hero for today’s woman. She’s James Bond without all the car chases, gadgets and violence. And I have faith that Thomas will write a compelling script with all of Veronica’s trademark quirks.

Bell is a movie star. Yes, she started on the small screen, but let’s hope her Veronica will soon be at a Cineplex near you!

Lipstick Jungle NOT canceled

2009-01-16T10:24:00.001-08:00

It’s a jungle out there in the world of television production.

Lipstick Jungle is not canceled, not yet anyway.

For months now those in the know have said that Lipstick Jungle was all but dead, since NBC failed to give it a renewal notice.

The rumors were greatly exaggerated, or so say the brass at NBC.

"We officially have not canceled Lipstick Jungle," said Angela Bromstad, the president of NBC Universal's production studio.

OK! Can I get a woo hoo?

I’ve enjoyed the show so much this year. I’m dying to find out what happens with Kirby and Nico and her new boss and Joe and Victory and well… you get the point.

While Bromstad said the show isn’t canceled, it hasn’t exactly been given the go ahead for next year either, usually the sign that a show will live. But Bromstad wants to have the option to use it in the fall, it seems.

Well, I hope someone tells poor Robert Buckley, who had already landed a new gig on Privileged.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Clark Kent vs. Brainiac

2009-01-16T08:22:00.000-08:00

by Ashley Gouveia

Smallville’s first new episode of the New Year aired last night, and even before it started, I was excited. My excitement was not only about the members of the Legion coming back from the 31st century to help the pre-Superman. It was also for the chance to see Chloe/Brainiac wreak havoc in Metropolis. For those of us who have been watching this season, this has been a long time coming.

The episode basically started right where it left off with the repercussions of the “wedding of my nightmares” a.k.a. Jimmy and Chloe’s nuptials. The Persuader, a villain from the 31st century, traveled through time to kill Clark and to prevent the destruction of Brainiac. The members of the Legion sent his butt back pretty quickly.

I loved all the references that Legion made about how history told them about Kal-El’s life. Garth, also known as Lightning Lad, was such a fan of Superman that he was giddy with all of the “artifacts” he was finding around Clark’s barn. I loved that he was such a fan boy. It was like he was meeting his idol.

“Who’s Chloe Sullivan?” What!! That line was crazy. Clearly, the people from the future don’t have any idea who Chloe is and how she has affected Clark’s life. Even if she died wouldn’t there be some record of her? I loved that scene when Rokk was naming all the people in Supes history; Lane, Lang, even Olsen, but no Chloe (or Lex?). Garth made the suggestion that maybe Chloe’s not in history because she dies due to Brainiac. Well, Clark wasn’t hearing any of that. “Chloe Sullivan doesn’t die! Hear me?” I hear you Clark, loud and clear!

The Clark vs. Brainiac/Chloe showdown was everything I had hoped for. Allison Mack’s performance was amazing. She channeled James Marsters perfectly. The “Go on. Kill me” line was chilling and expertly delivered. I thought it was interesting that Brainiac chose Chloe to inhabit out of everyone, because he knew that Clark would never be able to hurt her. He was adamant that they had to find another way besides killing Chloe to destroy Brainiac.

Does anybody else think they know what Lana’s “destiny” is? I’m glad that this episode pointed out that Lana will accomplish more than just being Clark’s love interest. Interesting, but I really haven’t seen anything so far to support that. Maybe it has to do with the real reason she left town. I guess we’ll have to wait and see with that, since Ms. Lang is sticking around for a little bit.

I still feel bad for Davis. I don’t think that’s going to change since Sam Witwer has totally won me over. Can I get a woo-hoo for Chloe getting her memories back? One episode of Chloe not knowing was more than enough for me.

This was a great episode written by comic book writer Geoff Johns. All the little winks and nudges to the comic fans were immensely appreciated. I would say it was my favorite episode of this season.

What did you all think? Did “Legion” live up to your expectations?

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Golden Globe Winners 2009

2009-01-12T06:28:00.000-08:00

TELEVISION:
—Actress, Drama: Anna Paquin, "True Blood"
—Actor, Drama: Gabriel Byrne, "In Treatment"
—Series, Musical or Comedy: "30 Rock"
—Series, Drama: "Mad Men"
—Actress, Musical or Comedy: Tina Fey, "30 Rock"
—Actor, Musical or Comedy: Alec Baldwin, "30 Rock"
—Miniseries or Movie: "John Adams"
—Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Laura Linney, "John Adams"
—Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Paul Giamatti, "John Adams"
—Supporting Actress, Series, Miniseries or Movie: Laura Dern, "Recount"
—Supporting Actor, Series, Miniseries or Movie: Tom Wilkinson, "John Adams"

MOTION PICTURES:
—Picture, Drama: "Slumdog Millionaire"
—Actress, Drama: Kate Winslet, "Revolutionary Road"
—Actor, Drama: Mickey Rourke, "The Wrestler"
—Picture, Musical or Comedy: "Vicky Cristina Barcelona"
—Actress, Musical or Comedy: Sally Hawkins, "Happy-Go-Lucky"
—Actor, Musical or Comedy: Colin Farrell, "In Bruges"
—Supporting Actress: Kate Winslet, "The Reader"
—Supporting Actor: Heath Ledger, "The Dark Knight"
—Director: Danny Boyle, "Slumdog Millionaire"
—Screenplay: Simon Beaufoy, "Slumdog Millionaire"
—Foreign Language: "Waltz With Bashir," Israel
—Animated Film: "Wall-E"
—Original Score: A.R. Rahman, "Slumdog Millionaire"
—Original Song: "The Wrestler" (performed by Bruce Springsteen, written by Bruce Springsteen), "The Wrestler"

Blogger Link Time

2009-01-12T04:37:00.000-08:00

Here's a look at what the Web's best TV bloggers are talking about this week in the TV Blog Coalition, of which Tube Talk Girl is a proud member.

With a ton of reasons to watch TV this month, Buzz picked her 12 favorites. (BuzzSugar)

Remember the awesomeness of Sports Night? GMMR's Take 5 looks back at the five best episodes of this fantastic show. (Give Me My Remote)

After watching Confessions of a Teen Idol, a part of Scooter's soul died. (Scooter McGavin's 9th Green)

Vance put Friday Night Lights at the top of his Best of Television for 2008 list! (Tapeworthy)

This week, Jace offered advance reviews of the first two episodes of Season Five of Lost (and nearly passed out from excitement) and the first four episodes of The United States of Tara, as well as reviews of the Gavin & Stacey and Doctor Who Christmas specials. (Televisionary)

Ed Westwick's eyebrows? Heidi Klum's legs? Vote on which TV body part gave the best peformance in 2008! (TiFaux)

The TV Addict previewed the new season of 24 with none other than Jack Bauer himself, Kiefer Sutherland (The TV Addict)

Jennifer celebrated the return of Scrubs, but didn’t realize she’d require a box of Kleenex. (Tube Talk)

Raoul was shocked --shocked!-- that True Beauty sucked. (TV Filter)

Heather went searching for Easter eggs at Ajira Airlines (TV Spy)

Josh Duhamel and Fergie tie the knot

2009-01-10T20:52:00.000-08:00

Sorry, ladies, Josh Duhamel is off the market.

I know. It hurts a little, despite the fact that you had no chance of ever landing him. But it was nice to dream that someday he could come along and be your Tad Hamilton, right?

Duhamel and pop singer Fergie were married Saturday in Malibu in what can only be described as a fairytale wedding featuring thousands of white roses. The ceremony took place in Malibu at Church Estates Vineyards, according to People magazine. I’ve seen photos of the site and it looks like something out of a Monet painting, complete with ponds, swans, a French chateau, magnolia trees and stunning gardens.

Fergie wore a white Dolce and Gabbana gown. Her 10 bridesmaids wore black, according to People.

Fans of Las Vegas, you’ll be happy to know that Duhamel’s costars, James Caan, Vanessa Marcil, and Molly Sims, were in attendance. I’m not sure about James Lesure. The People article didn’t mention him.

Also, there was no mention of Duhamel’s former All My Children stars and pals Rebecca Budig and Cameron Mathison, so I’m curious to know whether they made the trip to California for the celebration. (Call me silly, but I like to think that all my favorite onscreen characters are still friends off screen.)

Plenty of other celebrities attended the ceremony, including Fergie’s friend Mario Lopez, Jerry O’Connell and Rebecca Romijin, Kate Hudson, Kid Rock, and Fergie’s band mates from the Black Eyed Peas.

The couple has dated for several years. This is the first marriage for both.

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Duhamel. We wish you all the best!

Commentary with a Co-Ed: 'One Tree Hill' Thoughts

2009-01-09T06:32:00.000-08:00

by Ashley Gouveia

Happy 2009, Tube Talk readers!

A new year means all new episodes of our favorite television shows. Starting this week was One Tree Hill. First of all, can I say that I love that the show is back so soon? Usually, it seems like forever until they come back, but One Tree Hill actually surprised me. Thank goodness for my season pass on TiVo, or I would have missed it.

We ended last year with some good old-fashioned cliffhangers. Does Peyton have cancer? What happened to Sam? Will Owen and Millie actually do the deed? Well, we pretty much got all those answers in the first ten minutes of the episode. Peyton does not have cancer; she’s actually pregnant. The writers didn’t trick me for one minute. I knew that was where they were heading with this story even before she called Lucas her “baby daddy.” Were any of you shocked by the news?

As for Sam, she got into a car with Jack Daniels (not the drink) and his creepy brother. He turned out to be the same guy who attacked Brooke and killed Quentin. Tree Hill really is a small town. While I applaud Brooke for being brave enough to stand up to her attacker, I did wonder why she didn’t call the police for backup. I know it’s a drama and there has to be the build up of suspense but, I can’t help but wonder these things.

I think Sophia Bush deserves a standing ovation. She pulled off an amazing performance in those last scenes. I actually got a little teary-eyed when she dropped the gun and hugged Sam. Did I feel like the whole “Mom” comment from Sam was a little too over the top? Yes. But I just took it for what it was and enjoyed it.

It was also revealed that Millie did sleep with Owen. We didn’t even get to see them kiss or anything. Why? We just saw Millie crying in the store, and Owen boozing it up at Tric. It looks like he definitely fell off the wagon again. Who better to help him out then Stephen Coletti, I mean Chase. Yep, Chase returned and I have to say pretty randomly. I know it was a way to get Owen off the show, but why bring Chase back? Is it for a possible Mia/Chase hookup? Come on, they didn’t put that scene with them at the bar just for giggles.

I have to confess that I am enjoying the Julian character. For someone who hated Felix, Anna, and the rest of the newbies on this show, I have to say he’s intriguing and it shocked me too. I really like his interactions with Brooke and he’s funny too. The “cool mom” comment made me laugh during an episode that was particularly heavy on the drama.

What did you all think of One Tree Hill’s first episode of the New Year? Sound off in the comments.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Welcome back Scrubs heavy

2009-01-07T11:35:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

At 10 p.m. Tuesday night, I was sobbing like a baby. My eyes were swollen, tissues were littering my floor, and my nose looked like Rudolph.

Thank you Bill Lawrence. (Scrubs’ head honcho.)

The Scrubs debut on ABC was not what I expected. Oh sure, it had the trademark silly scenes we’ve all come to expect, the inside jokes about the Janitor’s name and Ted’s ongoing depression, a fun little musical ditty between Turk and JD, and JD’s fun sexual fantasies. But these Scrubs episodes had a serious tone that we haven’t seen from the show in quite sometime.

JD and Turk sat with a scared patient who was dying, discussing their own fears about the subject and granting his last wish, a can of cold beer. It was sobering. The dialogue - not the cold beer. Beautifully written and perfectly executed, it made me ponder my own feelings about death, and what the end may be like, heavy stuff from a show that uses a stuffed dog as one of its many ongoing jokes.

Courteney Cox Arquette was fabulous in her new role as chief of medicine. JD seemed more mature. (Thank you Bill! It’s about time.) And we even got a scene with Dr. Kelso, who apparently now likes to spend his time eavesdropping on hospital gossip at the coffee shop.

I don’t expect this comedy to suddenly lose its “fun factor” but it’s clear from these first two shows that Lawrence and his crew have a different plan for this year’s show. It’s more mature, a little more sentimental, but still as entertaining as ever. I hadn’t cried during a Scrubs episode since the Brendan Fraser arc. Well done, Scrubbies! I look forward to a great season.

And thanks to all of you for tuning in. The show averaged 6.7 million viewers for the two episodes, a 25 percent improvement over its last episode on NBC. Take that, Peacock! (Yes, I know it’s petty, but let me revel a little, will ya?)

This week’s TV: Scrubs and Nip/Tuck return and other shows to watch

2009-01-06T10:47:00.000-08:00

It’s winter season premiere week and the TV goodies just keep coming. It seems most of them are scheduled for Tuesday night, so those of you without a DVR, you have my sympathy.

Tonight, one of television’s best comedies returns, but this time it’s airing on a network that actually seems to care about the show. At least it's getting plenty of promotion for the first time ever. Yes, I’m talking about Scrubs. (Oh, how I've missed you!) It moves to ABC and premieres at 9 p.m. ET, with Courteney Cox Arquette joining the cast. Please tune in and watch. Call me petty, but I'd like NBC to have serious ratings envy. (Yes, I'm still bitter about the shabby treatment Scrubs and Las Vegas received at the hands of NBC.)

For those of you anxiously awaiting the return of Nip/Tuck to see how Sean and Christian survived crazy teddy-bear lady’s attacks, the wait is over. The show premieres at 10 p.m. ET tonight on FX. I’ve seen the screener, but I don’t want to spoil you. So, tune in and check it out for yourself.

Also tonight, Privileged is back with a new episode on the CW at 9 p.m . (Yay!) I’ve seen the show and let’s just say that Megan has her hands full with her mother, sister, and a romantic plot from Rose, in which she tries to get Sage and Luis together.

If that isn’t enough for you TV junkies, then don’t despair. One of my favorite new shows, The Mentalist, is back at 9 p.m. ET on CBS with a new episode. Patrick tries to find the killer who murdered his family.

See what I mean about Tuesday? It’s crazy.

As for the rest of the week, it’s not any lighter. On Thursday, 30 Rock, My Name is Earl on NBC, while Grey’s Anatomy, Private Practice and Ugly Betty all debut new episodes on ABC. Then on Friday, Psych and Monk return on USA.

Finally, adrenaline junkies, your show, 24, is back on Sunday on FOX. Get ready for a change of scenery though, as the first hour takes place in Washington D.C.

And if you enjoy awards shows, don’t miss The Golden Globe Awards at 8 p.m. ET on NBC this Sunday. Here’s the list of nominees, for those of you who missed it the first time.

For a complete list of winter premiere dates, click here.

Dancing With the Stars’ costars engaged

2009-01-06T10:04:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to Dancing With the Stars co-stars Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Karina Smirnoff, who are engaged to be married.

Maks apparently popped the question on New Year’s Eve, presenting Karina with a gorgeous Harry Winston number. Both are Ukraine natives, who have known one another for 15 years.

I have to say I didn’t see this one coming. I wasn’t aware the two were even dating, although perhaps I should have known, after watching their sexy dance last season. Seriously, I wanted a cigarette after that dance, and I don’t even smoke.

Smirnoff was involved with former Dancing partner and TV star Mario Lopez just six months ago, but their two-year relationship ended.

I’m anxious to see if the engagement is mentioned when the show gets back on the air March 9. Hopefully, we’ll get to see the two of them dance together again.

The show already has had two married couples in the cast: Edyta Sliwinska and Alec Mazo and Jonathan Roberts and Anna Trebunskaya.

Congrats Maks and Karina!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-05T17:26:00.000-08:00

Hey, Tubers, long time no chat, eh?

Happy New Year!

I know 2008 was a little slow here at Tube Talk, compared to previous years, a problem I hope to remedy in 2009. As you know, I had a parasite. Well, OK, it felt like a parasite, with all the vomiting, migraines, etc. But our blessed little bundle is now out in the world and doing well, after making his rocky debut at 3 pounds and 15 ounces. (See the photo at left of Parker Donovan Biller for proof.) Now, I’m slowly driving myself mad trying to juggle work, bottles, diapers, playtime, sleep deprivation, and all the other facets of childcare. It’s a good day if I make it out of my pajamas by 11 a.m.

Thanks to all of you for your continued support, especially those that tune in to hear me each week on the Jack Logar Morning Show on Magic 106.5. I’ll have some good scoop on Tuesday’s show, so be sure not to miss it.

January means not only new resolutions, but also a new crop of TV shows. Back this week are Nip/Tuck, Scrubs, Monk, Psych, Gossip Girl, Privileged, One Tree Hill, and 24. Can I get a “woo hoo?” Not to mention, Lost, American Idol and several new shows are right around the corner.

Welcome back, old friends! Stay tuned to Tube Talk for some fun stories, return dates and sneak peeks of your favorite shows, and the latest TV news.

Here’s to 2009! May your new year be blessed, or at least better than an episode of Knight Rider.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Christmas gifts for the TV fan

2008-12-19T11:49:00.000-08:00

by Ashley Gouveia

If you’re like me and wait to the very last minute to complete your holiday shopping, then don’t fret fellow Tube Talk readers. I have a list of great gift ideas that is sure to satisfy the TV-obsessed member in your family. Some of these items are even on my own personal list, so Santa if you’re reading this, I would take some notes.

The first item that any TV fan would be extremely grateful for would be their very own TiVo. This year I was lucky enough to purchase my own, and I can’t express to you how much I love this inanimate object. I was one of those people who could never keep up with all the shows that they watched. I couldn’t record two shows at the same time even if I wanted to. VCR’s were not my friend. Then I got TiVo and all my tube troubles were a distant memory. I guarantee that if you get this for your TV fan they will be forever grateful.

For the family members that love TV and board games I would suggest Scene It, the Friends, Seinfeld and TV editions. I own multiple editions of this DVD game because I love it so much. If the person you’re buying for is a die-hard fan of Friends or Seinfeld, then I definitely recommend these games. Let me tell you from experience that you could play these games for hours. All the clips and trivia questions are awesome, and they sell extra packs of trivia questions and a new DVD, once you start repeating questions.

A person can’t go wrong with buying a DVD set for the holidays. My suggestions for the best DVD sets are probably not going to surprise many of you, since they consist of two of my favorite television shows. Even if they are not fans of these shows, do them a service and introduce them to Ugly Betty and Supernatural on DVD. For the person who loves comedy and a dash of drama, get Ugly Betty seasons one and two. While you’re at it, get Supernatural, seasons one through three for the person who loves to be spooked, and appreciates great stories and fantastic acting. At this time you can probably find these sets for a reasonable price. I hope to be getting some of these sets to add to my own collection.

Those are my suggestions for all you TV fans this holiday season. I hope everyone has a safe and happy one. Let me know in the comments what all of you are asking for? Happy Holidays!

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Pushing Daisies’ Kristin Chenowith sings Eternal Flame and other news

2008-12-12T07:48:00.000-08:00

Is there anything more beautiful than Kristin Chenowith’s singing voice?

Perhaps the unrequited love story she’s currently starring in on Pushing Daisies, where her character (Olive Snook) carries a torch for her boss Ned (Lee Pace.) I know the show is selling Ned and Chuck as the fated couple, but in my opinion the show honchos went in the wrong direction. Ned and Olive should have been the love story to watch. (Oh well, it doesn’t matter at this point, since the series is on its final leg.)

In this fabulous clip below, Chenowith treats us to one of my favorite ‘80s song and a glimpse of her anguish on the TV show Pushing Daisies. It’s excellent.

Regular readers know my love for Chenowith knows no bounds. So, bear with me while I share this news. You can catch Chenowith on Dec. 17 at 8 p.m. on TNT, as she sings at the Christmas in Washington celebration. Also, for movie buffs, check out Chenowith in the hilarious movie Four Christmases. (She looks AMAZING in a gorgeous blue wrap dress that I wish I could find or at least a cheap knock-off of.)

If you want to hear more of Chenowith’s Tony-winning voice, you can find her new album in stores now called A Lovely Way to Spend Christmas. Meanwhile here’s a lovely way to spend a few minutes by hitting play below!

The Golden Globe Nominations 2008 for TV

2008-12-12T06:42:00.000-08:00

The Golden Globe nominations are following in Emmy’s footsteps with all the love for cable dramas and actors. However, there were a few non-cable shows and actors among the bunch.
I’m most excited for Neil Patrick Harris of How I Met Your Mother, Steve Carell of The Office, Sally Field of Brothers and Sisters, and America Ferrera of Ugly Betty, all shows and actors that I love.

Sadly, Friday Night Lights and everyone associated with it were once again dissed.
In a humorous twist of irony, James Franco, formerly of my beloved TV obsession Freaks and Geeks, finally got nominated. The fact that it’s for playing a pothead in the movie Pineapple Express made me chuckle.

Here are the Globe nominees for television. For the complete list that includes films and actors such as Brad Pitt click here.

Catch the show on January 11 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.

Best Television Drama
Dexter
House
In Treatment
Mad Men
True Blood

Best Actor - Television Drama
Gabriel Byrne, ‘In Treatment’
Michael C. Hall, ‘Dexter’
Jon Hamm, ‘Mad Men’
Hugh Laurie, ‘House’
Jonathan Rhys Meyers, ‘The Tudors’

Best Actress - Television Drama
Sally Field, ‘Brothers & Sisters’
Mariska Hargitay, ‘Law and Order: Special Victims Unit’
January Jones, ‘Mad Men’
Anna Paquin, ‘True Blood’
Kyra Sedgwick, ‘The Closer’

Best Television Musical/Comedy
‘30 Rock’
‘Californication’
‘Entourage’
‘The Office’
‘Weeds’

Best Actor - Television Musical/Comedy
Alec Baldwin, ‘30 Rock’
Steve Carell, ‘The Office’
Kevin Connolly, ‘Entourage’
David Duchovny, ‘Californication’
Tony Shalhoub, ‘Monk’

Best Actress - Television Musical/Comedy
Christina Applegate, ‘Samantha Who?’
America Ferrera, ‘Ugly Betty’
Tina Fey, ‘30 Rock’
Debra Messing, ‘The Starter Wife’
Mary-Louise Parker, ‘Weeds’

Best Mini-Series - Television
‘A Raisin in the Sun’
‘Bernard and Doris’
‘Cranford’
‘John Adams’
‘Recount’

Best Actor in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture - Television
Ralph Fiennes, ‘Bernard and Doris’
Paul Giamatti, ‘John Adams’
Kevin Spacey, ‘Recount’
Kiefer Sutherland, ‘24: Redemption’
Tom Wilkinson, ‘Recount’

Best Actress in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture - Television
Judi Dench, ‘Cranford’
Catherine Keener, ‘An American Crime’
Laura Linney, ‘John Adams’
Shirley MacLaine, ‘Coco Chanel’
Susan Sarandon, ‘Bernard and Doris’

Best Supporting Actor - Television
Neil Patrick Harris, ‘How I Met Your Mother’
Denis Leary, ‘Recount’
Jeremy Piven, ‘Entourage’
Blair Underwood, ‘In Treatment’
Tom Wilkinson, ‘John Adams’

Best Supporting Actress - Television
Eileen Atkins, ‘Cranford’
Laura Dern, ‘Recount’
Melissa George, ‘In Treatment’
Rachel Griffiths, ‘Brothers and Sisters’
Dianne Wiest, ‘In Treatment’

2008-12-08T11:28:00.000-08:00

Here's a look at what the Web's best TV bloggers are talking about this week in the TV Blog Coalition, of which Tube Talk Girl is a proud member.

Buzz suggested a few possible scenarios for the Gossip Girl spinoff. (BuzzSugar)

Sandie shared an interview with Samuel Baum, creator and executive producer of Fox's upcoming new series, Lie to Me (Daemon's TV)

GMMR shared some news and pics from her recent visit to the set of Privileged. (Give Me My Remote)

The holiday season has arrived and with it a brand new TV Advent Calendar including our favorite advent "treat" this week... How to make a holiday work wheel à la The OC and Seth Cohen's Chrismakkuh Work Wheel. (RTVW Online)

Scooter unveils his upcoming holiday schedule of Best of the Year list and how you can participate in crafting one and win iTunes/Amazon gift cards in the process. (Scooter McGavin's 9th Green)

Vance fell behind in TV blogging November sweeps so did a little blogging cleaning up on over a dozen shows. (Tapeworthy)

This week, Jace took a look back at those five suggestions to improve Fringe that he made in October to see if the writers had addressed any of them since then. (Televisionary)

Our national nightmare came and went. Dan evaluated Rosie's debacle of a variety show. (TiFaux)

Jennifer begged Shonda Rhimes to stop the Izzie madness on Grey's Anatomy. (Tube Talk)

TV Spy got a bit bogged down making the huge Christmas double issue of TV & Satellite Week. But somehow, amid all the madness and mince pies, Ben and Gareth found time to ponder Heroes: The Eclipse Pt2, and reckoned they spotted some definite signs of improvement. Phew! (TV Spy)

This week, the TV Addict got an exclusive update on the status of the VERONICA MARS Movie from Papa Mars himself, Enrico Colantoni. (The TV Addict)

Kate was a little sad to see Stylista's surgically enhanced little fashion urchin get the boot. (TV Filter)

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Ugly Betty and Amanda, a dynamic duo

2008-12-05T06:56:00.000-08:00

by Ashley Gouveia

Now that the holiday season has officially begun, all of us TV fans know what that means: winter hiatus. All of our favorite shows go bye-bye until we ring in the new year. Luckily, Ugly Betty hasn’t gone away yet. We were treated to a brand spankin’ new episode last night that had Amanda and Betty teaming up on a Mode assignment.

I wasn’t sure how much I was going to enjoy Amanda being Betty’s new roommate. Sure, I thought it would deliver some laughs, but I didn’t know what else it would bring to the show. It appears that since Amanda has moved in to casa de Betty she has grown more of a conscience. She was still eating Betty’s food and stiffing her on her half of the rent. Of course, she blamed it on Bad Ronald, the old dude who comes out at night and eats Betty’s leftovers.

It was hysterical to hear Hilda’s upfront way to get the rent money from Amanda. But Betty is way too nice to do it that way. My question is; why doesn’t Daniel pay Betty enough money to at least pay her rent? The lengths she goes to for her job is more than enough to get her a raise. Oh well, he got her a chance to write for Mode’s website, which means a little more money.

Please tell me I wasn’t the only one who guessed that those two guys were going to run off and leave Amanda and Betty with the check? I had guessed that right away. But I was impressed that Betty used the Mode name to get out of it. I didn’t think that the guys were going to steal Amanda’s wallet, which, of course, had all of Betty’s rent money. Oops, Amanda’s bad.

It ended up working out in the end with Betty getting the online article and Amanda getting a second job. This leaded to them both having a nice dinner at their apartment. It was weird, but nice. I’m just not use to this pleasant friendship that these two have struck up. What do you all think of it?

Mrs. Meade made about a five minute appearance. We need more Claire Meade in an episode. But the time that she was in was fantastic. I thought that she was going to encourage Daniel to go after Molly. Instead, she was there to slap some sense into him, literally. I loved that! Someone needed to tell Daniel that it would be a huge mistake to think about making a move on Molly.

Even with Daniel seemingly moving on, I don’t think this storyline is over. Now that Wilhelmina has caught wind that he is interested in her, I’m sure she will use that to get Connor for herself.

All in all, I liked this episode. It wasn’t as good as the one from two weeks ago but I still enjoyed it. But we need to see more of Queens and the Suarez family, I miss them.

What did you think of last night’s episode? What storyline are you loving/hating? Let me know in the comments.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Winter 2009 TV premiere dates

2008-12-04T11:44:00.000-08:00

The winter television season will soon be upon us. And with it comes the return of several of my favorite shows: Scrubs, Friday Night Lights, Lost and Nip/Tuck.

Check below to find out when your favorite shows are returning. I’ve also included a brief synopsis of some new shows you may be interested in checking out. I’ve got two words: Nathan Fillion.

Mon, Jan. 5
The Bachelor (ABC)
True Beauty (ABC)

Tues., Jan. 6
Nip/Tuck (FX)
Scrubs (ABC)
According to Jim (ABC)

Wed., Jan. 7
Damages (FX)

Sun., Jan. 11
24 (FOX)

Mon, Jan. 12
Samantha Who? (ABC)

Tues., Jan. 13
American Idol (FOX)

Wed., Jan. 14
Lie to Me (FOX)
Lost (ABC)

Fri., Jan. 16
Battlestar Galactica (Sci Fi)
Friday Night Lights (NBC)

Sun., Jan. 18
Big Love (HBO)The L Word (Showtime)
Secret Diary of a Call Girl (Showtime)
United States of Tara (Showtime)

Wed., Jan. 21
Lost (ABC)

Thur., Feb. 12
Survivor (CBS)

Fri., Feb. 13
Dollhouse (FOX)

Sun., Feb. 15
The Amazing Race (CBS)

Mon., Mar. 9
Castle (ABC)
Dancing With the Stars Season 8 (ABC)

Tues., Mar. 17
Reaper (CW)

Tues., Mar. 24
Cupid (ABC)

Wed., Apr. 8
The Unusuals (ABC)

Thur., Apr. 9
Harper's Island (CBS)

New Show Information:

Castle, stars Nathan Fillion as a mystery novelist who assists a female NYPD detective (Stana Katic.) The show airs Mondays at 10 p.m.

Cupid, stars Bobby Cannavale and Sarah Paulson, in this remake of the original Rob Thomas series that gave us Jeremy Piven. The show airs Tuesdays at 10 p.m.

Dollhouse stars Elisha Dushku and Amy Acker of Buffy fame in this Joss Whedon drama about a group of “dolls” who work at a futuristic lab and have their memories wiped clean after performing tasks. The show airs Fridays at 9 p.m.

The Unusuals, stars Amber Tamblyn, Harold Perrineau, and Adam Goldberg as NYPD detectives. The show airs Wednesdays at 10 p.m.

Lie to Me stars Tim Roth as a specialist who helps solve crimes by reading people’s body language and voices. The show airs Wednesdays at 9 p.m.

Harper’s Island is a serialized mystery set on a secluded island off the coast of Seattle. A group gathers on the island for a wedding, only to be killed off one by one by a mysterious killer. The show airs Thursdays at 10 p.m.

True Beauty is a reality show from Tyra Banks where contestants are judged on their inner beauty, not their exterior, but don’t know it. The show airs Mondays at 9 p.m.

A Colbert Christmas contest winners announced

2008-12-01T19:29:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of you who took time to enter the contest for A Colbert Christmas DVD.

I was surprised at the overwhelming number of entries, especially from places like Scotland, the UK and Canada. Tube Talk loves you, too!

I have two copies of the DVD to give away, thanks to the cool folks at Comedy Central.

After a random drawing, the lucky winners are (drumroll please) …

Monica B. of Flat Rock, NC, and Lee Harper of Austin, TX. Congratulations! Your DVDs will be en route soon.

And to all of you who entered, thanks so much for reading Tube Talk. Hopefully, we'll have more giveaways soon.

Grey’s Anatomy: Stop the Izzie madness!

2008-11-30T19:50:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

As a Grey’s Anatomy fan, I’ve put up with a lot of antics from Izzie Stevens.

Surgery on a deer. Check.
Hooking up with her best friend, George, who happened to be married. Check.
Standing outside for an entire day staring at the hospital door. Check.

But her latest shenanigans of having sex with ghost Denny top it all. Say it with me. “Ewww!”

The Denny/Izzie love fest was nauseating enough the first time around. Round two with Denny, the ghost, is downright unwatchable. If it weren’t for my fast forward button, I would have possibly gauged out my eyes, if I had to watch one more minute of dead Denny and somber, possibly crazy Izzie.

Izzie used to be fun, competitive, and able to kick serious butt. Remember her fight with Callie? Now, she’s a flaky, sentimental, shell of herself.

Grey’s creator Shonda Rhimes recently told Entertainment Weekly’s Michael Ausiello that the Izzie/Denny storyline is one of her favorite ever on the show. (Yeah, I can’t believe it either. Did she forget about Addison, or McSteamy’s arrival, or Bailey’s marriage woes?)

Rhimes said, "I think the love triangle with Denny, Izzie and Alex is among the most interesting we've ever done. Watching the chemistry between Jeffrey and Katherine again has been really touching. I can't wait for our viewers to see where we're taking it. But what it won't involve is Izzie having a brain tumor."

Am I the only one disappointed that a brain tumor isn’t responsible for this nonsense? Then, at least, it would make sense as to why one of my former favorite doctors is now nearly the most irritating. (Mean Meredith Grey still holds the number one spot of disdain on my list.)

Note to Shonda Rhimes: Please end Izzie’s suffering soon and by extension, mine. This storyline is sucking the life out of what’s left of Izzie and Grey’s Anatomy.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Time to give thanks

2008-11-28T18:45:00.000-08:00

by Ashley Gouveia

Every Thanksgiving I make it a priority to take a moment and remember the things that I’m thankful for this year. It mostly consists of good health, my family and my friends. Yesterday, while I was gobbling down some turkey, I was thinking about some other things that truly make my year more enjoyable. Maybe a few of my choices would appear on your own list.

My TiVo: Yes, I have finally moved into the year 2008 and bought myself a TiVo. Now I wonder how I ever lived without it. No more VHS tapes for this girl. I have gone high-tech and I’m lovin' it. I’m thankful for not having to choose which TV show I’m going to tape and which ones to watch on my little 19 inch television. It can record multiple shows at that same time, which is fantastic. It probably hates me on Monday and Thursday nights, but I say take it up with the networks. In short, it’s the best invention ever for this TV addict!

Supernatural: How could I not be thankful for a television show that brings me Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki every week? It may not be on one of the big three, (CBS, NBC or ABC) but it’s the best acted and written show on television. Thank you to all the people involved with Supernatural for having a clear beginning, middle and an end to your series. It’s much appreciated and I can’t wait to see what’s in store next year.

The Annual Dog Show on NBC: Thank you for giving me an excuse to dig out my It’s a Wonderful Life DVD.

Project Runway: Thanks for proving to me that it’s possible to actually have real, talented people on a reality show. Tim Gunn, you are amazing! Keep making it work.

Commentary with a Co-Ed/Tube Talk: Last, but certainly not least, I’m extremely thankful for this column. It has helped me in a major way with my writing. I love writing about what I love and sharing it with all the readers here at Tube Talk. A big thanks to Jennifer, a.k.a. Tube Talk Girl for the opportunity and the continued support. This former co-ed, now college graduate, couldn’t do it without you. Also, to the visitors of Tube Talk, thanks for listening to my ramblings.

What are you all thankful for? Tell me in the comments!

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Brooke Burke is “Dancing” Queen

2008-11-26T07:27:00.001-08:00

E! television host Brooke Burke took home the Dancing With the Stars trophy last night with partner Derek Hough.

For anyone who watched this season’s show, Burke’s win didn’t come as a surprise. She led the competition eight out of 10 weeks. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a celebrity with such dance talent. The judges even compared her dance skills to those of the female professional dancers, high praise from judges who normally nit-pick every step.

Burke dominated the season, earning a perfect 10 score- the highest mark possible- 16 times during the competition. Her emotional Viennese waltz landed her three 10s to cinch the competition last night.

But it was her Grease routine Monday night that thrilled me. Judge Bruno said he’d only seen such wild positions in the Kama Sutra. Hough’s choreography was, in a word, brilliant. Bruno and Len said it was the best freestyle routine they had ever seen. I agree.

Warren Sapp and partner Kym Johnson also had a memorable routine Monday night to the tune of Proud Mary. I loved it so much that I’ve watched it three times. Judge Carrie Ann declared it her favorite routine of the night. And I have to agree with Len that every time I watched Sapp dance, I couldn’t stop smiling. What an entertainer he is.

Former boy band member Lance Bass claimed third place with partner Lacey Schwimmer. He chose a hip-hop routine for his freestyle, a mistake in my opinion. It was too much in his comfort zone, there were no lifts, and frankly, it was not nearly as good as the hip-hop routines we’ve seen in years past. It seems hip-hop is usually the choice of dancers for the finale, so I was thrilled to see Burke and Sapp go in a different direction in their freestyle.

Kudos voters. It was great to see the best three dancers make it to the finale. Burke deserved to win, and Sapp deserved second.

I just have to say though, is it wrong I want to have Sapp back every season? He was so much fun. I’ll miss him.

There is no word yet on who the next batch of celebrities dancing will be. But, I saw Florence Henderson, Christina Applegate, and I think Jenny McCarthy in the audience. Could they be eyeing the dance floor next?

Congrats Brooke and Derek! You deserved the trophy.

James Van Der Beek on tonight’s "One Tree Hill"

2008-11-24T10:36:00.000-08:00

Photo and clip: Courtesy of the CW

Dawson’s Creek fans, James Van Der Beek returned to Wilmington recently to shoot an episode of One Tree Hill.

In a fun twist and a nod to his former character, Van Der Beek will play a famous director. That’s where the similarities end. You’ll see what I mean when you watch the clip below.

Let’s just say that this character is about as far from Dawson Leery as one could get.

I think Lucas may be in for some trouble with his script. The fun begins at 9 p.m. on the CW.

Blog coalition: Link time

2008-11-24T10:20:00.001-08:00

Here's a look at what the Web's best TV bloggers are talking about this week in the TV Blog Coalition, of which Tube Talk Girl is a proud member.

From Turtle on Entourage to Thirteen on House, Buzz rounded up some of her favorite nicknamed TV characters. (BuzzSugar)

A hodge podge of stuff ranging on how to win an autograph DVD of Chuck Season One, to a promo for 25 Days of Christmas, and where to find cheap TV DVD's for those on your Christmas list you don't want to spend a lot on but you want them to think you spent a lot on them. (Scooter McGavin's 9th Green)

Vance loves Bobby Cannavale but isn't quite sure if he'll make a good Cupid yet after seeing the preview. (Tapeworthy)

This week, Jace took an advance look at the Doctor Who: Complete Series Four DVD which came out earlier this week and offered an early look at a potential ABC midseason schedule. (Televisionary)

I'm in ur hospital, sleepin' with ur interns! Dan continued his trend of ridiculing Grey's Anatomy with a new batch of LOLGrey's (TiFaux).

Jennifer returned from maternity leave to chat with Rosie O’Donnell about her new variety show, Nip/Tuck, and The View and received a strike notice from her DVR. (Tube Talk)

This week, the TV Addict revealed why we're not worried about DOLLHOUSE's Friday Night timeslot. (The TV Addict)

Kate kinda hated herself for continuing to watch Stylista. But holy crap was this week's episode compelling! (TV Filter)

Heather had a longish chat with 24: Redemption's Robert Carlyle and, incredibly, managed to avoid once mentioning Hamish Macbeth! (TV Spy)

Win "A Colbert Christmas" on DVD

2008-11-23T17:02:00.001-08:00

Move over Rudolph.

Tonight on Comedy Central a new kind of Christmas special hits the airwaves. Yes, there’s a baby Jesus, eggnog, and all the Christmas trimmings you think of for the holiday.

But this one also has Willie Nelson as a pot-giving Wise Man, Toby Keith giving folks a “special” Christmas present that involves more firepower than found at your local Army base, and John Legend singing about nutmeg in a way that I promise you will have you rolling with laughter.

A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All is a one-hour musical holiday special. The guest list also includes Elvis Costello and Feist.

The plot has Colbert on his way to New York to perform with Costello when Colbert gets trapped in a snowstorm in a cabin.

I’m not sure this will become a classic holiday favorite like Frosty, but it sure is a fun way to spend an evening, for those with adult tastes for humor and a love for Colbert, Stewart, and Christmas.

Here’s a look at the song list to give you an idea of what you’re in for:

“Another Christmas Song" – Stephen Colbert
"Have I Got A Present For You" – Toby Keith
"The Little Dealer Boy" – Stephen Colbert and Willie Nelson
"Can I Interest You In Hannukah?" – Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart
"Nutmeg" – Stephen Colbert and John Legend
"Please Be Patient" – Feist
"There Are Much Worse Things To Believe In" – Stephen Colbert and Elvis Costello
"(What's So Funny 'bout) Peace, Love And Understanding" – Stephen Colbert, Elvis Costello, Feist, Toby Keith, John Legend and Willie Nelson

The show begins at 10 p.m. ET tonight.

For those of you who miss it or would like to add this piece of TV goodness to your holiday movie collection, you can win a copy of the DVD right here at Tube Talk, thanks to our friends at Comedy Central.

To enter the contest, simply send me an e-mail at jennifer@tube-talk.com with “Colbert Christmas” in the subject line and your name, address, and phone number in the body of the e-mail. The deadline is next Sunday, November 30, at 10 p.m. ET. I’ll randomly choose the winners, and I promise not to sell your information to identity thieves.

For those of you who love all things Colbert and Stewart and want to purchase the DVD or the music, it hits stores on Tuesday, November 25. The bonus DVD features include a book burning Yule log, video advent calendar, alternate endings and more. COMEDY CENTRAL Records will also release the songs from the special as a digital album available exclusively on iTunes on Tuesday, November 25. A portion of the proceeds from both the DVD and iTunes will benefit the charity Feeding America

OK, send your e-mail to win and click on Comedy Central tonight to enjoy the show!

ABC drops Eli Stone, Dirty Sexy Money, and Pushing Daisies

2008-11-21T05:08:00.000-08:00

Photo: Peter Krause, Lee Pace and Johnny Lee Miller

ABC dropped the hammer on three of its sophomore shows this week with a decision not to renew Eli Stone, Dirty Sexy Money and Pushing Daisies, according to E!Online and TV Guide.

I need to take a moment to ask ABC why they would cancel three unique entertaining shows, but keep on the most annoying TV drama to come along in years? Yes, I’m talking about Private Practice, a typical medical melodrama with plenty of bed-hopping characters. Despite a stellar cast, Private Practice doesn’t come close to matching the quirkiness and originality of Pushing Daisies, the soapy guilty goodness of Dirty Sexy Money, and the heartwarming plots of Eli Stone.

I already know the answer: ratings.

For some reason, people are watching Private Practice, but won’t give Eli and the others the time of day.

Pushing Daisies fans can at least take solace in that their show will continue on in comic book form, said series creator Bryan Fuller.

I’m so sad to see Eli Stone leave the airwaves. It was one of the highlights of my week.

Are you going to miss these shows? Sound off in the comments below.

Interview with Rosie O’Donnell: Rosie dishes about her new variety show and "The View"

2008-11-19T20:24:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

I spoke with Rosie O’Donnell today on a conference call to discuss her upcoming Rosie Live variety television special.

First of all, she was delightful, sticking around to answer all the questions from inquisitive journalists. (New York Post, did you really need to have three reporters ask questions? Geesh! Give the rest of us a chance.)

Second, she loved the name of my Web site, Tube Talk, which endeared her to me from the get go. (At first, she thought it was named Tube Top, so that was a funny moment. You can hear the hilarious exchange for yourself at the end of the blog post in a brand new audio feature.)

Not only did O’Donnell dish the scoop on her upcoming variety show special, she talked about her difficult time on The View, mentioned her old talk show and that infamous heated interview with Tom Selleck, and even discussed politics. “Variety” indeed.

Yes, Rosie is headed back to television. For how long, depends on ratings for her upcoming variety show. If ratings are high, NBC will order six more episodes, O’Donnell said. If those go well, then NBC can renew the show in cycles of six, she said.

Rosie Live is an old-style variety show, the kind many of us TV addicts grew up watching, including O’Donnell. Think Sonny and Cher, Donny and Marie, and Carol Burnett, all inspirations for the show.

Rosie gave me an exclusive piece of scoop for Tube Talk, since she loved the name of my Web site so much (thank you Rosie!): Gloria Estefan will be stopping by the variety special. As previously reported, also on board for the show are Alec Baldwin, Liza Minnelli, Jane Krakowski, Kathy Griffin, Alanis Morissette, Ne-Yo and plenty of Broadway actors.

Minnelli and O’Donnell will open the show with a duet, she said. It’s a song from The Act and one that Minnelli hasn’t sung in 30 years.

“It was a song I grew up singing and now the dream is coming true,” O’Donnell said. “She’s showbiz royalty.”

The format for Rosie Live is scripted comedy bits, with the celebrity guests playing themselves, a comedy sketch with Rosie dressed as a policeman and plenty of musical numbers.

What viewers won’t see is Rosie espousing her political views. This show is “to give people an hour to forget about their troubles,” O’Donnell said. Considering the current state of the world, I think the timing is perfect for an old-school variety show. So does O’Donnell, who likened the current environment to that of the ‘70s when variety shows were popular.

“It’s the right time,” she said. “Variety shows were a big hit in the ‘70s when the economy was in the crapper, and gasoline was scarce, and people’s belief in the political system was shaky.”

As for The View, O’Donnell said she rarely watches the show and is still unhappy with how her stint ended.

“After I left the show, I couldn’t watch it. I had so many mixed emotions. It would just be almost like post-traumatic stress disorder. Every time I would turn it on I would have mild panic and have to turn it off. Truly I haven’t watched it,” she said.

“Having been there and having seen what goes on behind the curtain, it’s a different experience to watch it than as an average viewer,” she said. "No matter what Barbara (Walters) wants everyone to believe, and think and act as if everybody there gets along and is really good friends... it's just not the reality. I’m not saying they loathe each other... The fact is there wasn’t a lot of camaraderie off camera there…That’s not saying you can’t work with people and have a relationship.”

As for that infamous argument with co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck about the war in Iraq, it’s still upsetting to O’Donnell that it played out on live television.

"For me what happened on the show was a personal argument with a friend that was publicly displayed... I didn't want to be paid to fight. When I started and took that job it was with the intent of speaking for the millions of mothers whose voices weren't represented on television," she said… "I’m not proud of the arguing and the fighting.”

After being the boss of her own talk show, it was tough not having control of The View, O’Donnell said.

“It was Barbara Walters and Bill Geddes’ program... I was not the boss, and I did find that difficult,” she said. “I did enjoy the program right up until the day it all went crazy…I did it for a year and I thought it was really great, right up until the day it went off the track. When you're on a football team and your own team won't support you, and your own guy tackles you, it's time to take off the uniform."

O’Donnell also discussed how much she loved her former self-titled talk show and that she didn’t argue politics on it with the exception of that infamous fight with Tom Selleck about guns. “It was a sad day for both of us, I’m sure,” she said.

During the conference call, journalists were limited to one question and a follow up. And for all my readers who love her character Dawn Budge on Nip/Tuck, I asked if we’d see her again on the show. O’Donnell hopes so, she said. So do I.

If you don’t want to wait for the new season of Nip/Tuck, you can get catch O’Donnell this Wednesday in her variety special. Personally, I can’t wait. Long time readers of this column, dating back to its early days as a print newspaper column, know I’ve been a fan of O’Donnell’s for many years. I loved the Rosie O’Donnell Show so much I taped every episode. So, to say I’m excited to see her back on television in a format that doesn’t involve arguing and politics is my very own little Christmas present.

Rosie Live will air Wednesday, November 26, (the night before Thanksgiving) at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.

To hear my fun interview with Rosie, click the link below.

(When the window opens, click on “rosieinterview.wav” and “open.” It will take a couple seconds to load. This is my first attempt at including audio in a post, so please let me know if you’re having trouble hearing it. The audio worked fine for me in Windows Media Player.)

ROSIE INTERVIEW

The fight to save Lipstick Jungle

2008-11-19T08:12:00.000-08:00

Despite the fact that NBC has ordered no additional episodes of Lipstick Jungle - meaning it’s pretty much a goner - actress Brooke Shields and creator Candace Bushnell aren’t going down without a fight. And neither are fans of the show.

Fans are mailing tubes of lipstick to NBC to protest a cancellation.

NBC is now flooded with lipstick, Shields told The Daily Beast publication. “Women are in uproar over this…they’ve tried to kill us before and we have refused to die. If we were meant to be off the air, we wouldn’t have made it as far as we have. Everything that could possibly go wrong with a show has happened with us.”

Bushnell claims that the ratings don’t accurately reflect the number of people viewing the show. She claims more than 50 percent of the audience isn’t counted in Nielsen ratings, because viewers TiVo and watch the show later.

Bushnell is right. I’m one of those viewers. I was lukewarm about the show last year, but this year, it seems to be firing on all cylinders. I’m loving Joe Bennett and Victory and Nico and Kirby are fantastic. Although, I just know Nico is going to be hooking up with her new boss, former Las Vegas hottie James Lesure. (Well, if the show continues that is!)

If you’d like to join the Save the Jungle campaign, you can send NBC head Ben Silverman a lipstick at 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608 or tune into the show this Friday at 10 p.m. ET to boost the ratings.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Clark Kent's dream girl shouldn't be Lois Lane

2008-11-14T09:37:00.000-08:00

by Ashley Gouveia

Lois Lane who?

Here’s the thing. We all know Clark Kent is supposed to end up with Lois Lane. That’s all well and good in the Superman mythology. The problem is, in the TV series Smallville, the gal many fans hope Clark Kent spends his caped-costumed flying future with isn’t named Lois. She’s named Chloe Sullivan, who on paper has embodied all the characteristics of Lois Lane and captured viewers hearts, since they were first introduced to her in season one.

Nothing drove home that point more than last night’s episode of Smallville that showcased the relationship between Clark and Chloe.

What can I say about last night’s episode of Smallville? After the first viewing I really didn’t know what to think. I was too busy trying to get my jaw off the floor. Wow! Heavy emotions were running rampant as Chloe was slowly forgetting everything she loved. Now that I have watched it twice (OK, maybe three times) I can successfully discuss my thoughts on this epic episode.

It was only a matter of time before Brainiac completely took over Chloe’s mind. She used massive amounts of brainpower to get Clark out of the Phantom Zone last week, and she killed a guy. That’s not the Chloe Sullivan we know and love, so something had to be wrong. The first person she forgot was Jimmy, her soon to be husband. Her last memories were ones of Clark, a fact that Jimmy appropriately brings up.

I love it when TV shows decide to show us things that happened in past seasons. We got to see the memory of Chloe finding out about Clark’s secret, which she forgot about after she relived it. Then we got to see quick flashes of some scenes that every Clark and Chloe fan hold near and dear to their hearts. The ‘Tempest’ almost-kiss from season one, the undercover kiss from season three, and the chemistry charged elevator moment from season four. We also go to see a flashback to a very young Clark and Chloe on the day they first met. Apparently, those are the memories that take Chloe to her “happy place.” Aww!

It was great to see this scene be reenacted since we only heard Clark retelling it during season one. Besides the bad wig on little Chloe, I thought the young actors pulled it off. It was so heartbreaking when young Chloe was running away with young Clark to keep him with her. When she jumped to a new memory, I knew exactly why Chloe would want that particular one. It was the memory of ‘Dark Thursday’ when Chloe kissed Clark before he went off to save the world. Who wouldn’t want to relive that? Chloe struggling to hold on to him and Clark reassuring her he would never leave her was awesome. But Brainiac managed to erase all but Davis from her mind.

Clark’s decision to rebuild the Fortress to save Chloe was noble but I have this gut feeling that this was Brainiac’s plan all along. In his effort to save her, he had Jor-el erase Chloe’s memory of his secret. That was even more heartbreaking than Chloe trying to hold on to her Clark memories. His speech to her in the Fortress was fantastically delivered by Tom Welling. He kissed her on the forehead and whispered to her that the only way he knew how to protect her was to let her go. I think that was the sound of my heart breaking right then. Folks, these two are why I watch this show.

No way can this Superman II-like mind wipe last. Can it? It would be completely crazy for Chloe to stay without some of her greatest memories. It just wouldn’t be right. So here’s to hoping that gets fixed soon.

Let’s not forget the hot Davis and Chloe kiss at the very end. It only lasted a second and it had more passion than anything she has shared with Jimmy. Davis said he wouldn’t let her go which paralleled nicely with Clark’s speech. Also, was that James Marsters I heard at the end? That was just icing on the cake.

I have no idea what’s going to happen next or how this is going to get resolved. All I know is Doomsday is coming and I’m excited.

What did you all think? Sound off in the comments.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Scott Speedman and Robert Buckley – separated at birth?

2008-11-11T14:25:00.000-08:00

Photos: Actors Robert Buckley (left) and Scott Speedman (right)

by Jennifer Squires Biller

It’s no secret that part of my obsession with the TV show Felicity was actor Scott Speedman. "Felicity" moved herself cross-country to chase after “Ben,” and well, I have every episode on DVD to satisfy my Speedman fix. So, you could say I’m somewhat of an expert on the subject.

Frankly, my TV viewing just hasn’t been the same without my weekly dose of Speedman, who has now moved on to the big screen, along with my gal “Felicity,” actress Keri Russell. So, imagine my surprise when I happened on an episode of Lipstick Jungle last season, and I literally paused the DVR to ask myself how Speedman was starring on this show and I didn’t know about it.

The short answer was that on further examination, the six-pack abs didn’t belong to Speedman, but an actor by the name of Robert Buckley, who is a dead ringer for Speedman.

Their mannerisms are similar, and from time to time, it’s eerie how similar they seem. So, if you miss “Ben,” too, then check out Buckley in Lipstick Jungle. The show is pretty good, too.

A message from my DVR

2008-11-11T13:41:00.000-08:00

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Dear Tube Talk Girl,

Consider this my official notice. I’m done. I cannot continue to work under these inhumane conditions. You may have noticed last week that I had a break down, literally. I refused to tape Dancing With the Stars and several other of your programmed shows.

For two years now, I’ve performed flawlessly for you, taping each and every one of the television shows you designate —good and bad — even when I questioned why you would ever want to record such a program. (Scott Baio is 45… and Single. Really?) But I did it, and I didn’t complain. But I can be silent no longer. I’m going on strike, until you delete some of this backlog and at least give me a few breaks during the week. I need some me time.

The past several TV seasons, it was Thursday nights that drove me to madness. Now, it seems Mondays and Wednesdays are just as stressful. How can I be expected to tape Gossip Girl, How I Met Your Mother, Dancing With the Stars, One Tree Hill, Boston Legal and Samantha Who all on a Monday? It’s insanity. And you won’t even give me a minute between shows, as you run one show a minute over and start the next a minute early, so you can play the reindeer games the networks have devised when they air their programs over the allotted time slot.

As for the shows you’ve already watched, repeatedly, but ask me to keep in my memory, please reconsider and give me some space. Do you really need the The Office episode, from two years ago, when Pam and Jim first kissed, or Scrubs the musical, and the final episode of M*A*S*H? Enough! I cannot continue to feed your compulsive need to have these TV scenes at your fingertips. Have you not discovered You Tube?

In short, I’m done. I can’t take it anymore. I’m sure you’ve noticed the strange beeping sound I’ve been eliciting lately and the lock ups. Sorry, but unplugging me from the wall and rebooting won’t fix this problem. Nope. The problem is you, Tube Talk Girl. You need to get this TV obsession under control because I cannot tolerate this behavior for one more season.

Sincerely distressed,
Your DVR

This week’s TV highlights

2008-11-11T11:32:00.000-08:00

Photo: Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley are hosting the CMA Awards.

by Jennifer Squires Biller

If you caught my Tube Talk report on Magic 106.5 this morning then you already know this. But for the rest of you who don’t tune in to the Jack Logar Morning Show (and why not? Hmmp!) here are some notable TV shows you may want to watch this week.

Tonight (Tuesday):
Country music star and West Virginia native Brad Paisley appears on Dancing With the Stars. Relax, Tubers. He’s singing, not dancing. I don’t think we’ll ever see Paisley in Lycra and sequins. Watch the results show on ABC at 9 p.m. ET.

Wednesday
The CMA Awards are a must-see for country music fans. Kenny Chesney, Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, George Straight, Taylor Swift and Brad Paisley all in the same room is a must-see for anyone really. An added bonus is that the notoriously funny Paisley is not only nominated in several categories, he’s hosting the gig with Underwood. Bring on the laugh laugh. Catch the CMAs on ABC at 8 p.m. ET.

Thursday
Can you say NBC and stunt casting? Thursday night is the lollapalooza of guest stars on NBC. Just start watching at 8 p.m. ET and keep on going to catch all of them. First, 90210 alum Jason Priestley stars on My Name is Earl, as Earl’s successful cousin. Then, Jennifer Aniston appears on 30 Rock as a love interest for Jack. Then, Anthony Edwards checks back into ER. Yes, he died on the show years ago, but this is television people, where a toe tag doesn’t mean we won’t see you again. I also can’t mention Thursday without urging you to watch Smallville at 8 p.m. on the CW this week. It looks to be a fantastic episode, especially for Chloe fans.

Friday
On Ghost Whisperer, Melinda deals with the aftermath of her husband’s death, and viewers will get to see that love transcend death, as they see the world through Jim’s eyes. I don’t watch this show, but I know many of you do, so tune in for the special episode at 8 p.m. on CBS. My new guilty pleasure this season, Lipstick Jungle, has been hitting it out of the park, so don’t miss it at 10 p.m. on NBC. (Soap fans, Vanessa Marcil joined the show last week, and she’s up to no good with Wendy’s husband. It’s a must see.)

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Checking in with One Tree Hill

2008-11-07T08:19:00.000-08:00

by Ashley Gouveia

This week’s One Tree Hill left me frustrated with some of my beloved characters. During this episode Peyton, Brooke and Lucas were all making decisions that left me rolling my eyes at multiple times. Why didn’t Peyton just tell Lucas about Julian before the inevitable happened and Lucas found out on his own? Why did Brooke decide she could only be a foster parent and have no life of her own? Lastly, why was Lucas trying to figure out the complexities of Dan Scott?

Is there anyone out there that likes Sam? I’m trying not to hate her, but her character just doesn’t add anything to the show for me. She’s constantly screwing up and seems to really not learn her lesson at all. The stunt she pulled last week with Jamie was over the line. I thought that Haley would have been a little hesitant with leaving Jamie in her care again, but I guess not. Brooke has been extremely nice to her and I can’t help but wonder why.

Speaking of Brooke, I don’t quite understand her decision to not date Owen. First, who wouldn’t want to date Owen? Second, why can’t she be a role model to Sam and still have a life. I just don’t see why she had to choose. Maybe she just really wasn’t in to Owen anymore and decided they were better off as friends. I’m not a big fan of this foster mother storyline for Brooke. I hope her story becomes more interesting as the season goes on. Was that Julian flirting with Brooke in the promo for next week? Now that could be interesting.

I have to admit that I was surprised by how serious Peyton and Julian were when they were dating. I had assumed that he was just a fling that she had in LA after her breakup with Lucas. But they were really in love with each other. Their flashback scenes were chock full of chemistry. Once he dropped that paper jam metaphor I knew he was in. Peyton sure does love those deep metaphors from the heart.

Lucas is getting his first book made into a movie and was in charge of writing the screenplay. He had trouble with writing the Keith murder scene which is understandable. I just think he was putting too much thought into how Dan would be portrayed. Up until now he had no problem with feeling like Dan was a monster for killing his uncle. Now he wasn’t sure how he should write him in that scene. There have been times where I felt bad for Dan and he has come through on a couple of occasions. He saved Jamie and Haley from the psycho nanny. But there’s no going back for Dan’s character.

One person that I was happy with was Nathan. He decided to give up Slam Ball after he almost got injured again. I really liked that scene when Jamie told him not to play anymore. Nathan deciding to give it up was a great moment for his character. It just shows us how far he has come. The Scott family scene at the end was adorable too. They need to have more screen time together.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Review: Privileged is brightest star of new TV season

2008-11-02T14:40:00.001-08:00

Privileged
Airs: Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET on the CW

While many of you obsessing about the new sci-fi cult show Fringe or checking out the remake of the new 90210, my favorite new show of the season is Privileged. It’s the one new show I can’t wait to watch each week.

Privileged tells the story of a Yale-educated journalism major who leaves her job at a tabloid to become a live-in tutor for two spoiled daughters of a Palm Beach cosmetics tycoon. The show is a glamorous peek into the life of pampered princesses. It’s a fun ride you don’t want to miss.

The show reminds me a little of one of my favorite movies, Sabrina. It has the same contrast of opulence versus the everyman, complete with the helpful staff that gives Megan advice to help her navigate the rocky waters of the Privileged.

Joanna Garcia is a delight as tutor Megan Smith. She is a dead ringer for Amy Adams in Enchanted, with her perpetual perkiness and likeability. But, Smith is not the only reason to watch. Each character is just as fantastic as the next.

The two spoiled rich girls, Sage and Rose, are cast perfectly with Ashley Newbrough and Lucy Hale. Newbrough nails the part of spoiled rich girl, yet audiences can’t help but love her. Hale grabs viewers, too, as the softer sister with a good heart. Also noteworthy are Marco, the gay chef (actor Allan Louis,) who steals every scene, and Megan’s best friend and potential love interest, Charlie (actor Michael Cassidy,) who audiences will recognize from his roles on The O.C. and Smallville. Then, there’s the hot neighbor guy, Will, who had me from the moment he walked into Marco’s kitchen to grab a bagel, (actor Brian Hallisay.) Rounding out the embarrassment of talent is Anne Archer, as the girls’ grandmother, Laurel, and Kristina Apgar, as Megan’s sister, Lily.

If you haven’t discovered this gem of a show, please put it on your calendar. I promise it will make you smile. It’s lighthearted, funny, and a great way to spend an evening. Frankly, with all the doom and gloom on the tube this season, I’m thrilled that the CW gave us something different than the typical teen drama or bloodbath. It’s a privilege to have Privileged on my TV lineup.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Get spooky with The Simpsons Halloween

2008-10-31T07:59:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Gouveia

Happy Halloween!

Since it is the one day of the year where it’s considered fun to be frightened I thought I would sit down and watch the screener for this Sunday’s Simpson’s episode. Now I know you’re probably thinking I shouldn’t get scared of cartoons, but I can’t help it. Mr. Burns is one freaky-looking cartoon character.

Let’s move on.

I was prepared for the creepy and scary moments similar to previous years. But I am glad to report that this one didn’t have the same effect on me. Apart from Mr. Burns not being in the episode, it was focused more on the funny and satirical parts of the holidays. It had Christmas, Thanksgiving and Halloween all wrapped into one. I actually laughed out loud at some of the jokes.

There’s a really funny part right in the beginning when Election Day hits Springfield. It involves Homer, John McCain and an electronic voting machine. Craziness ensues and we get a few laughs from it. Also, look out for Grandpa Simpson’s vote for pres. I think he’s standing alone on that one.

Then Christmas arrived early for the residents of Springfield. I guess it’s not only the department stores that like to rush the holidays. Bart decides to give Lisa a Malibu Stacy convertible that transforms itself and every other electronic device into fighting killer robots. This one had its moments, like what the robots decide to do after they stop fighting with each other, but it wasn’t my favorite part of the episode.

I’m not an avid fan of The Simpsons but I think that killing Homer is the running joke of the show. Every minute he was getting blown away or eaten by something, which was entertaining. I especially like what happens after he goes on a killing rampage and decides to take out celebrities for profit. The way that one ends is pretty hysterical. Let’s just say I can’t look at Abe Lincoln in the same way after this.

Without a doubt my favorite part of the episode has to be the It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown parody. It had the most laughs with the so-called “pumpkin atrocities” that we humans do every Halloween. I also learned some facts about pumpkins that I never knew before.

If you’re sick of the traditional slasher flicks and just want something to make you laugh, then check out the new Simpson’s episode on Sunday November 2nd at 8/7c.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Commentary with a Co-Ed: Doomsday rocks Smallville

2008-10-28T14:17:00.000-07:00

by Ashley Gouveia

Now that is what I’m talking about!

I absolutely loved the most recent episode of Smallville. I was getting worried that I had lost the show that had originally captivated my attention. Weird alien princesses and psychotic jewelers don’t add up to fascinating hours of television for me. However, a heroic Clark and the beginnings of one of the ultimate super villains can certainly glue me to the tube. Pair those two things with a Sam Witwer shower scene, and I’m calling it the best episode of the season.

There wasn’t much to not like about this episode. Jimmy was in it, and even he didn’t bother me like he usually does. Davis Bloome was back and seemingly causing murders all over Metropolis. I want to give applause to Sam Witwer because his teary confession to Chloe was heartbreaking. It had me wanting to give him a big hug and hope he doesn’t go all Doomsday on me. He is eventually going to take out Superman, but I can’t help but feel sorry for the guy.

Chloe helping the meteor infected at Isis was certainly something new for her. But she still had that investigative drive which I loved to see. The old Chloe is still in there somewhere. It was great to see her back at the Daily Planet again even if it wasn’t in any official capacity. Clark going behind her back to get the names of her clients was enough to cause some friction between the two. But I thought it made for a great dynamic throughout the episode.

Speaking of great dynamic, Allison Mack and Sam Witwer have amazing chemistry together. They hit all of their scenes out of the park. Chloe really feels that Davis is a good person and isn’t capable of hurting anyone. Like Clark said, she is putting a lot of trust into someone she just met. I thought it was really interesting that when Davis asked her if there was anyone else she felt an ease with, she didn’t say Jimmy. Well, I think we all know the answer to that one.

I have noticed that Smallville has taken a darker tone this season. The sets in Metropolis are always dark and gloomy a definite contrast to the consistently sunny Kent Farm. I think it’s their way of maturing the show a little bit, giving it more of an edge. I’m kind of enjoying it, but it would be nice to see the old Kent Farm for a longer amount of time.

All in all, it was a great episode and if there’s more like that one headed our way, then I welcome it.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday