Emmys nominations 2009: Well done!

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'

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Friday Night Lights renewed

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!)

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Winter 2009 TV premiere dates

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.

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Best and worst of the Emmys

Photo: Tom Bergeron, Heidi Klum and William Shatner in an opening Emmy skit

by Jennifer Squires Biller

It was a big night for Tina Fey and 30 Rock and a night that the world realized that Howie Mandel should never host an awards show.

This year’s Emmys showed lots of love to basic cable shows and the actors on them (Mad Men, Damages, Breaking Bad) and the NBC comedy 30 Rock (scoring wins for Best Comedy, Lead Actress Tina Fey, Lead Actor Alec Baldwin and Writer Tina Fey.) The show also wasn’t short on political statements in this presidential election year, from actors urging viewers to vote, to swipes at the current administration

As a longtime Emmy viewer and fan, I have to say that this year’s show was one of the worst in Emmy history. No, I didn’t take my bitter pills this morning. It’s the sad truth. Here’s a rundown of my choice of highlights and lowlights, including best lines.

Best Ad-lib: “She’s bald, too.” ---The follicular challenged Bryan Cranston, looking down at his new gold Emmy for lead actor in a drama.

Biggest Hollywood diss: "At this point I was planning on doing a few more jokes, but Katherine Heigl told me my material wasn't Emmy worthy." – Conan O'Brien, ripping on Heigl, who withdrew her name from Emmy consideration, stating that she didn’t have Emmy material this year on Grey’s Anatomy.

Biggest disappointment: The Emmy opening usually sets the tone for the entire show. And what started out as a fun bit, with actors quoting famous TV lines, quickly gave way to the most awkward show opening ever, as the five show hosts (Howie Mandel, Tom Bergeron, Heidi Klum, Jeff Probst, and Ryan Seacrest) stumbled through a “we’ve got nothing” comedy attempt. It proved that indeed, they had nothing. They talked over one another, rambled, and it ended with Heidi Klum stripped down to a revealing outfit. If the Emmys want to hire five hosts, instead of one, I suggest Ricky Gervais, Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler. They are comediennes, and frankly, the show could have used some comedy, and I can’t believe I’m saying this, but the tried-and-true song and dance number.

Best skit: Josh Groban’s musical medley of 30 legendary TV theme songs. Groban started out with a spot-on version of the Friends theme song, before launching into songs from The Love Boat, The Addams Family, The Brady Bunch and many more, sounding just like every one of the famous tunes. His version of Eric Cartman’s line in South Park had me howling, as well as his COPS rendition and the theme from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Who knew Groban could rap? The guy should have received a standing ovation, but the lazy attendees stayed planted. What does it take to get these people on their feet, Oprah?

Worst skit: The Laugh-In bit. Maybe it’s a generation gap, but I don’t get it. A pie in the face as someone says “Sock it to me?” Really, that’s funny? The entire skit with actors opening and closing doors just left me confused. I know the show is a comedy legend, but if that skit is a reflection, I’m baffled as to why.

Strangest skit: Martin Sheen on the set of The West Wing, urging everyone to vote. As great as it was to see Sheen again, why is this material on the Emmys? I’d rather the time be spent to show us some actual clips of the actors and shows that were nominated. This political announcement would have been better served as a commercial or an after-school special.

Best jab at show hosts: Jeremy Piven, during his acceptance speech. " What if I just kept talking for 12 minutes? That was the opening."

Second best jab at show hosts: “Thanks to Howie Mandel's prattling, our bit has been cut."— Neil Patrick Harris, echoing everyone’s thoughts when viewers realized they wouldn’t get to hear Harris’ bit.

Best banter: Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert, who stated at the onset of their presentation that they would not get political, as Colbert broke out a bag of prunes and began eating them. “I think right now America needs a prune. It may not be a young sexy plum. Granted, it is shriveled and sometimes hard to swallow, but this dried-up old fruit has the experience we need.” Stewart countered with, “After eight years of prunes, you would think that’s enough.” Colbert shot back, while still chewing, “Never enough. What could possibly go wrong?”

Biggest surprise: The theme song to M*A*S*H has words. Ditto for the theme to The Andy Griffith Show. Who knew? Josh Groban, apparently, when he belted out the ditties during his TV-theme-song medley.

Understatement of the night: “We’re like on the Sarah Palin bridge to nowhere, that's where we are right now…. The government can't even bail us out of this.” -- Emmy co-host Howie Mandel, who noted the lack of audience laughter during he and his co-stars’ opening monologue.

Best acceptance speech: Tina Fey, (I guess.) No one truly stood out with a fantastic speech, as opposed to years past. (Remember Steve Carell’s speech that his wife “wrote” and Greg Garcia’s people he didn’t want to thank?) At least Fey had one funny line: “I want to thank my parents for somehow raising me to somehow have confidence that is disproportionate with my looks and abilities. Well, done. That is what all parents should do.”

Worst acceptance speech: Any and all that broke out a list of names. These are award-winning entertainers, who should be giving us an entertaining speech, not rattling items off a piece of paper like a grocery list. Glenn Close, I’m talking to you.
Best politically scripted line: Kathy Griffin, as she and Don Rickles took the stage. “The world hasn’t seen a pairing like this since John McCain and Sarah Palin.”

Best unintentional laugh: Heidi Klum’s broken English, when introducing presenter David Boreanaz. Here’s how Heidi said it with her charming accent: “David Boreanaz of THE Bones.” Adorable, right?

Short but sweet: Kathryn Joosten and Tom Selleck appeared for a blink-and-you-missed it-moment. They both were presenting, but both were limited to about 20 seconds of simply announcing the awards, due to time constraints. Note to producers: If you’re going to give us the delectable Selleck, give him more airtime than a sneeze. And how dare you cut Mrs. Landingham’s bit. She’s funnier than Mandel!

Best reunion: Sally Field and Tom Hanks, former mother-son costars on Forrest Gump.. As Fields presented Hanks with his award for Outstanding Miniseries, she asked how her “boy” was and Hanks, without missing a beat, called her “mom” and replied he was fine, before launching into his famous Forrest line “You know, momma always said…”

Sharpest political jab: Kirk Ellis, winner of the writing award for miniseries for the show John Adams. “Thank you for giving me this amazing opportunity to talk about a period in our history when articulate men articulated complex thoughts in complete sentences.”

Best advice for giving good acceptance speeches: Ricky Gervais. “Keep it short, particularly if you’re not onscreen talent. No one wants to hear from a producer.”

Biggest repeat offender: Jeremy Piven wins AGAIN for best supporting actor in a comedy. I get it. He’s talented; you like him. But, can we please make room for someone else in this category? Someone like Neil Patrick Harris or Rain Wilson?

You should have listened to Kimmel: Jeff Probst accepted his award for best reality host and gave Kimmel his “told ya so” moment. “Jimmy Kimmel, you told us the ‘nothing’ bit may not work, but we stuck to our guns.”

Biggest oversight: Friday Night Lights wasn’t nominated, nor were its stars Kyle Chandler and Connie Britton. Great show, great performances, great disappointment that the show and its actors were snubbed. Shame on you, voters.

Harshest Bush bash: "I'm living proof, kids at home watching, that anybody can play the president."--- Paul Giamatti, accepting the award for outstanding lead actor in a miniseries or movie for President John Adams.

Biggest reality check: It’s been a decade since The West Wing began. A decade? Wow. The President himself, Martin Sheen said it, so it must be true, but it does not seem like a decade has passed since this wonderful show graced the airwaves.
Clips please!: I’m not sure how the show producers could fit this in, but if they had time for that lame opening and the lengthy presentation of the reality host award, why didn’t they give us some clips from the shows the actors are nominated for in the lead categories or clips of the nominated shows. Perhaps the Emmys need to expand an extra hour, to truly pay tribute to TV and its stars. Hey, it works for the Oscars.

Best heckling: Don Rickles rips on the writers of the Emmys for the forced banter: “Let’s read the funny lines they wrote for us.” --- (rolling his eyes.)

My picks: Everyone has someone they’re rooting for and in my opinion, Vanessa Williams and Kristin Chenoweth should have both taken home statues for their supporting comedy performances. Aliens in America’s Adhir Kalyan should have been nominated in the supporting comedy category, and Chandra Wilson should have claimed the supporting actress in a drama award for her work on Grey’s Anatomy. And the fact that Tichina Arnold, of Everybody Hates Chris, wasn’t even nominated for supporting comedy actress makes me want to scream.

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Friday Night Lights cuts cast

Photo credit: NBC, Gaius Charles (Smash Williams) and Scott Porter (Jason Street)

I didn’t see this coming.

Smash Williams and Jason Street won’t be regular characters on Friday Night Lights this season.

Gaius Charles (Smash) and Scott Porter (Jason) have been taken off contract and will appear only as recurring characters, according to Michael Ausiello at Entertainment Weekly.

I’m a little nervous about these changes. Smash and his ego certainly kept things hopping in Dillon, and Jason has been the heart of the show since its inception. What do you think, Tubers? Will FNL be the same without two of its original Panthers?

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Woo Hoo! Friday Light Nights renewed

You did it, FNL fans! NBC has officially renewed Friday Night Lights.

That sound you heard – it’s a deep sigh of relief.

The network honchos made the announcement Wednesday at its schedule presentation. The cost-sharing deal that enticed NBC to bring the show back is with the satellite company DirecTV.

“We all love it, we all believe in it, and we are going to continue to deliver it, hopefully for years to come,” NBC honcho Ben Silverman said today at the NBC event.

Before you get too excited, though, you should know that DirecTV will get to air the new episodes first, in the fall, while NBC “will delay broadcasting the same episodes until the winter, months after satellite subscribers have seen them,” according to New York Times TV blogger Brian Stelter.

So, what do you think of this development, Tubers? The show is sticking around which is fantastic news, but those of us that don’t have DirecTV are going to have to work overtime probably to avoid being spoiled.

I know it’s a pain, but at least we get to keep one of TV’s most well-written and acted shows. And for that, I’m willing to do a cheer myself.

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Friday Night Lights renewal a done deal says cast member

Although NBC has not released an official statement yet, Friday Night Lights cast member Kyle Chandler (Coach Taylor) has said that a deal to renew the show for a third season is in place.

Chandler was a guest on NPR’s Fresh Air and broke the news there.

NBC is expected to make the announcement official on Wednesday, in New York, during their new schedule presentation, according to E!Online.

From the hordes of e-mails I’ve received from nervous fans waiting to hear the fate of Lights, I know that many of you are doing the happy dance right now. Don’t worry; there’s no shame. I’m right there with you.

And kudos to all of the Friday Night Lights fans that mounted the fan campaign to “keep the lights on,” despite a certain someone’s comment that we should all just watch 30 Rock. (Yes, Ben Silverman, I’m talking to you.) No, I’m not bitter.

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Friday Night Lights renewal looking good

The buzz out of yesterday’s Friday Night Lights panel at the Paley Festival in Los Angeles is that the show is returning next season.

Can I get a “Woo Hoo?” Or several if you prefer to get out your pom-poms and do a happy dance.

I’ve been hesitant to report any news that the show was possibly being picked up, until something was official, but all sources say it’s happening. E!Online’s Kristin Dos Santos heard the scoop straight from one of the cast member’s mouths.

Allegedly, DirecTV is working a deal with NBC to help keep the show on the air. According to TV Guide’s Michael Ausiello, FNL would air on NBC and DirecTV “concurrently.”

I’m positively giddy at the though of one of television’s best drama getting another season. The minute I hear confirmation that the show has indeed been renewed, you’ll be the first to know. I promise!

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Bones, Moonlight, and others added to Paley Festival

TV Guide is reporting that the annual Paley Television Festival has just added 11 more TV panels to its already fantastic 2008 lineup.

Bones, Moonlight, The View, Kyle XY, Greek, and The Young and the Restless are just a few of the shows joining a second part of the festival, kicking off on March 28, according to the TV Guide Web site. The first part of the festival runs March 14-27.

This is the best lineup I’ve ever seen for Paley Festival. Can you imagine any other event where the casts of Friday Night Lights, (yes, even my beloved Kyle Chandler), Buffy the Vampire Slayer (my beloved Sarah Michelle Gellar and James Marsters) and the casts of Bones, Moonlight and Pushing Daisies all come together? And that’s not even the half of it.

After seeing this breaking news about the addition of Bones, I couldn’t help but wonder now if David Boreanaz will join the Buffy reunion. It was previously reported that Boreanaz could not join his former cast mates due to a family commitment, but was planning a taped message. Now that his new show, Bones, is included in a panel, perhaps he’ll show up with the rest of the Scoobies to reminisce about all things Buffy? Hey, a girl can dream right?

If you don’t already have a ticket to the Buffy panel, good luck in getting one. It’s sold out. So is the Pushing Daisies panel. I’m hoping (OK praying and considering bribing someone) to post the Buffy, Friday Night Lights, Bones, Moonlight, and Pushing Daisies panels on You Tube for all of us who cannot attend.

Tickets for the second part of the festival featuring Bones, Moonlight, and more go on sale March 14.

For more information and a complete lineup of shows and casts attending, visit the Paley Festival site.

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Let’s Talk TV: The Week in Review

Never in all of my TV-viewing life would I have predicted that Friday night would be the best night for TV viewing. But it’s true. Friday is the new Thursday.

With shows such as Friday Night Lights, Las Vegas, Moonlight, Psych, and Monk, there is a show for pretty much every TV taste. Here’s my take on some of the shows I checked out the past week.

Friday Night Lights
Tim loves Lyla! I should have seen it coming, but I didn’t. His crank call to her radio show was the equivalent of pulling the little girl’s ponytail in grade school to get her attention. But what about Jason? It seems his role gets smaller and smaller by the week. Tim isn’t the only feeling lonely. Poor Matt saw his ladylove and hired nurse head out of the country. Who is going to take care of Grandma now? I worry about these things. Not to mention, I keep waiting for that scary drug dealer to realize that Tim stole his cash. That is not going to end well for Tim. (I was completely shocked to see Tim resort to stealing, since he wrote his father off in a previous episode for stealing, an act he did not condone.) The story that really warmed my heart was Santiago trying to break away from his old life. When he took on those thugs to get Buddy’s watch back that they’d stolen, my heart grew three sizes. This is the best show on television right now, hands down. It never disappoints. It has so many intense story arcs, yet they all hold my interest. From Tami and Eric trying to leave their new daughter at daycare, to Smash facing racism about his interracial romance, not a minute ticks by when I feel like fast-forwarding. In fact, the show leaves me satisfied and surprised every week that so many story arcs are played out so well. I have only one question: Where is Tyra? The girl has been missing for the past two weeks?

Boston Legal
Denny Crane was back in the courtroom, despite his Mad Cow disease. (Or senility, as it’s known in the non-Denny Crane world.) I was holding my breath for most of the episode, waiting for Denny to throw out one of his nonsensical one-liners or anger the judge with his sexist comments to the point he’d be jailed for contempt. But Denny kept it together, trying to prove he could still be effective, and surprisingly, got his client off. I enjoyed Denny in the courtroom. It was nice to see him doing something besides sexually harassing his employees or bonding with Alan. It was also a nice change to see someone other than uber-liberal Alan Shore arguing a closing. I even got a little weepy, after the trial, when Denny excused himself for a quiet moment and broke down. Most often, Boston Legal is a comedy. But when it hits dramatic moments like that one, it’s understandable why the show was nominated for an Emmy.

Las Vegas
I think Polly may be my new favorite character. In fact, she may be the funniest supporting actress on television. Her stint in traffic school with Sam and Mitch was the highlight of this week’s episode. How Polly gets her hysterical one-liners past the network police is beyond me. Plus, she’s taught me more about bikini waxing and “backdoor bleaching” than I ever wanted to know. The Piper/Cooper story was fantastic, too. Mike had me convinced that Piper was Cooper’s daughter. She does share the same irresistible dimples as Tom Selleck. I think a Mike and Piper hook up is inevitable, and I can’t wait. The Danny/Delinda pregnancy story is getting tiresome. I shudder to think what will happen when she actually gives birth.

One Tree Hill
Dan was in the house! Well, technically, he was in the big house rocking some serious facial hair. But still, after last week’s episode that was completely devoid all the Tree Hill adults I’d come to love, I was happy to see Dan again. Now, if Deb and Karen would just check in. Peyton’s new music label may be in trouble. K-Fed, really? P Sawyer is losing her touch already. And how about the shocker that Daphne Zuniga’s character is actually Brooke’s mother? I so didn’t see that coming. Oh, and a here’s some advice for “Lucas’ Lindsey”: I wouldn’t get too comfortable in Tree Hill. With Peyton and Brooke back in town, it won’t be long before Lucas is revisiting his old territory soon. Kudos to Nate for shaving his Jesus beard. Now, if he would just cut that hair, I’d be a happy woman. It’s never a good think when your wife’s hair is shorter than yours.

Scott Baio is 46… and Pregnant
If Scott Baio wanted to convince the world he is a giant tool, mission accomplished. Each episode, Baio comes off as more arrogant and selfish than the one before. His pregnant fiancée is dealing with hormones, her changing body, and the stress of carrying a baby, while Baio exiles himself to a different wing of the house to whine about losing himself, while flipping through his vintage Playboys to look at his ex-girlfriends. I’m done with this show. Grow up Chachi! Someone needs to call the Fonz to shake some sense into this immature brat.

Moonlight
OK, what’s up with all the grisly? Yes, I know this is a show about vampires, but decapitating people and holding their heads up for viewing, twice no less, was a little much. The show was too gruesome for me this week. I was happy to see Coraline back, but sadly, it looks like she’s gone again. Beth was still mourning Josh, and Mick was enjoying being human for the first time in decades. Of course, it was only temporary. I just have one request for the Moonlight folks: We need more Josef in this show!

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Let’s talk TV: The week in review

Desperate Housewives
That twister that hit Wisteria Lane left a street full of devastation. In the voiceover intro, we were told one of the ladies would lose a husband and that they would all lose a friend. Gaby’s spouse, Victor, was impaled with a white picket fence. How’s that for symbolism? (One husband down.) But the friend? My money is on poor Ida. I’m guessing she woke up and went looking for her cat, right into the path of the tornado. I blame Lynette. We’ve seen a lot of selfish behavior through the years on this show, but Lynette consistently exhibits self-absorbed behavior. Pushing her way into her neighbor’s basement during the storm and then insisting Ida’s cat be removed is so typical Lynette. Kudos to Mrs. Landingham, oops, Mrs. McClusky for calling Lynette out on her selfish behavior that she only acts like a friend when she needs something. Why didn’t Lynette and Tom go to another neighbor’s house or a shelter? Maybe this storm will teach Lynette how to be a friend. On second thought, she’s got Gaby, Susan and Bree as her companions, so there’s probably no hope for Lynette.

Las Vegas
Sam is back at the Montecito. Can I get a woo-hoo? Her bowling meeting with Cooper was a fun tête-à-tête during a game of bowling. I finally figured out what’s bugging me about Tom Selleck’s stiff-jawed portrayal of Cooper. He’s missing the Thomas Magnum sense of humor. Selleck excels in levity. To see it restrained in this role is a real downer. Did you catch his hilarious stint on Friends? Yes, Cooper is daunting, scary and mysterious. But I miss his fun side. Ed Deline managed a perfect balance of both. Let’s hope Selleck finds his smile soon. It’s too pretty not to be seen.
Meanwhile, Danny and Mike caught the robbers. But poor Danny, every member of his family has now ended up six-feet under. DeLinda, you should think twice before marrying into the McCoy clan.

How I Met Your Mother
Barney lost his mojo. Say what? Even suited up in a room full of supermodels, Barney had nothing. Sure, it stemmed from realizing that his brother, the always-entertaining Wayne Brady, had paid Barney’s first lover to lie about his performance. Realizing he wasn’t awesome threw Barney in to such a spin that he began doubting his sexual prowess, thus throwing off everything in the How I Met Your Mother universe. In a funny B storyline, the rest of the gang joined the gym. It lasted less than a week. As much as I enjoy the Mother folks, I’ve lost all patience with the reveal about who the mother actually is. Just tell us already!

Brothers and Sisters
Congratulations Robert and Kitty! They tied the knot. It’s always a good time at a Walker shindig and the wedding didn’t disappoint, due to Robert’s run at the presidency. I couldn’t help but chuckle as members of the Walker clan were detained by secret service for various charges: Kevin’s off-the-cuff comment about wanting to kill his new brother in law, Nora’s date for smoking pot and Justin and Tommy for fighting. Good times. Good for Rebecca for telling Justin that his new girlfriend was sleeping with this brother. As for the new guy in town who showed up at Holly’s door at the end, I’m betting he’s Rebecca’s real father. There is no way she and Justin are brother and sister. I just can’t buy it. Those two have too much chemistry.

Pushing Daisies
A taffy candy competitor moved into the Pie Hole neighborhood and the rivalry got a bit sticky this week. One dead body in the taffy vat later, and the pie maker and his pals had to solve a crime. This show is so much fun. Thank you ABC and Lee Pace for making me smile each week. And I’ve said it before, Ned and Olive, are pure confection. I do have one note, though, Lee Pace, you know I love you, but get a pair of tweezers. Those eyebrows are starting to rival Peter Gallagher’s.

The Office
Psych! Yes, I’d love to be able to gush about Michael’s latest idiotic scheme or the euphoria that is Pam and Jim, but the writer’s strike has caused The Office to go dark with any new episodes. I hurt, Tubers!

Friday Night Lights
Landry confessed. Matt lost his virginity. Tim apologized his way back on to the team. And Eric was jealous of his wife’s new “yuck-it-up” friend. Things happen quickly in Dillon. I’m so glad this show has new episodes left because ending the show with Landry’s confession to the cops is a cliffhanger of monumental proportions. Will he go to jail? Will Tyra come to his rescue? I can’t wait for the next episode.

OK, it’s your turn to share your thoughts on your favorite moments and shows from the past week. I’ll be waiting for your comments.

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Let’s talk TV: The week in review

Friday Night Lights
Tyra, your body is a wonderland. (And no that isn’t a dig at her cast mate Minka Kelly, who is dating John Mayer.) Tyra is hot. It’s no wonder poor Landry is in love with her. I don’t know how Tim Riggins has managed to resist her lately. Speaking of resisting, QB1, also known as Matt Saracen, has so many hot ladies throwing themselves at him; it’s sending his stuttering into overdrive. Julie realized that she shouldn’t have ended things with Matt and seems to be getting a little too cozy with her teacher lately. I don’t like where this is headed. Watch your back, teach, because if Eric finds you hitting on his daughter, you may find yourself being used as a tackling dummy during the next football practice. And how about the entertainment for the Pantherama rally? Having the football team strip was definitely thinking outside of the box. In my high school, everyone would have been expelled for that sexy stunt. But, this is Dillon, where football rules and apparently teachers and parents don’t mind the kids half naked and gyrating on the gym floor.

Dirty Sexy Money
I’m really enjoying the dysfunctional Darling family, especially serial bride Karen. The poor gal can’t seem to get over her first love Nick George and is set on winning him back. Mrs. George, you have been warned. The most surprising twist of this show for me is that I actually like former hard-ass Rev. Brian. The storyline with his son has softened him. OK, sure he made the kid pretend he was an orphan who didn’t speak English, so that Brian’s wife wouldn’t find out that he had an illegitimate son, but in the end, he came clean. He's even missing the little tyke. And so am I.

Private Practice
It’s been weeks since I invested in Private Practice. And much like the stock market, my sentiments about this show go up and down. This week, I hit an all-time low. Addison’s new dating companion had a strange fetish: he liked to insert objects in his rectum. Let’s just say I hope she never gets that shoe back. I don’t care if it is a Jimmy Choo. I’m trying to love Private Practice; I really am. But Addison is so… what’s the word? Silly. Yes, I never thought I’d describe my Addison as silly, but that’s what she’s become. And the rest of her co-workers are just as bad. The bright spot is that she and Pete have chemistry. Perhaps she’ll stop acting like a teen soon. The one character I am interested in, Dell, never seems to have much to do but fetch coffee. How about giving him a storyline? I think I may have to handle Private Practice the same way I handle broccoli. I partake from time to time, even though I don’t like it.

Ugly Betty
Just like the sun, Ugly Betty is the one show I can count on to be reliable. (Friday Night Lights is the other.) Betty never disappoints. It’s silly fun, and unlike Private Practice, the silly works. The show somehow balances comedy and drama perfectly. Eric Mabius has made me weepy several times. When Daniel Meade gets serious, look out. This week when he mourned his father, I was reaching for the Kleenex. His idea to black out the cover of Mode in honor of this father’s death was brilliant. In contrast, Amanda’s quest to find her father makes me laugh hard, every time she goes to the wall of photos of all her mother’s lovers. This week I caught Tom Selleck’s mug, Warren Beatty, Mick Jagger and Burt Reynolds. That Faye Summers sure got around, didn’t she?

Heroes
Not even the addition of my own personal TV hero, Kristen Bell, to the Heroes cast has rekindled my love for this show. I’m sad, Tubers, as I used to love it. I’ve tried hanging on, but the show simply doesn’t interest me anymore. There are too many characters, story arcs, and too little time with the characters I do care about. It pains me more than you know to remove a show starring Kristen Bell from my DVR lineup, but when it feels like an obligation to watch it each week, then it’s time to go.

Las Vegas
There was no new episode this week, which was a good thing since we never talked about the last episode. Cooper fired Sam! I don’t think I’m alone here when I say, “What?!?!!” OK, so she shouldn’t have dumped that milkshake over the cowboy’s head, but in her defense, the guy was a tool. But this is Sam. She’s my favorite character on the show. I usually have to rewind her rapid-fire witty dialogue a couple times, so I can enjoy and appreciate her sarcastic barbs. There is no Las Vegas without her. The new boss man had better come to his senses soon because I want her back at the Montecito hanging with Mr. Cooper.

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NBC auctioning props

NBC is selling some of the props used by your favorite actors on NBC shows.

The first online auction began yesterday and runs through December 3. More items are being added every few weeks, as the auction continues.

The first auction has some fun items. As of 2 p.m. Michael Scott’s watch from The Office, worn by Steve Carell, was up to $205. Tim Riggins’ football jersey from Friday Night Lights, worn by Taylor Kitsch, was up to $170 (sweat may be included,) and a football autographed by several FNL cast members was up to $105.

Some items weren’t doing so well, though. Poor Sam (Vanessa Marcil) from Las Vegas. Her doggie carrier for Reggie hadn’t earned one bid yet. But Danny’s letterman jacket, worn and autographed by cutie Josh Duhamel, was up to $90.

Heroes seemed to be generating the most interest. The original painting of the cheerleader, Claire Bennet, was up to a whopping $2,500.

Now, before you go firing off the angry e-mails at me about helping a greedy network hawk its merchandise, you should know that a portion of the proceeds are going to the United Way and its organizations.

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NBC is going green this week; should it?

NBC is kicking off sweeps week with an environmental campaign. All this week, you’ll see eco-friendly messages throughout NBC programs.

For example, on Scrubs, after watching An Inconvenient Truth, the Janitor vows to savethe world by becoming the Environmental Officer at Sacred Heart. On My Name is Earl, the warden asks Earl to incorporate environmentally friendly “green” messages into a skit presentation. On Chuck, Chuck visits Stanford University for “Green Weekend.”

"By creatively weaving stories concerning environmental awareness into our series, we see this as an opportunity to engage the audience andprovide a positive social message," said Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC. "Our ultimate goal is to entertain people while creating a conversation about a universal issue."

While I’m all for going green, I don’t like my favorite programs creating dialogue touting what essentially is a commercial message. I hate it when product placement is so obvious that it detracts from the story. (See this week’s episode of Nip/Tuck for what can only be described as a 30-second commercial for Yoplait yogurt.)

I applaud NBC for using its power to get people talking about the environment, but I fear this is a dangerous precedent to set. What happens if the network decides that it must get out a message that Dell computers are superior? Will our favorite characters suddenly start declaring the excellence of Dell computers? I can just hear Scrubs’ JD to Turk, “Dude, you’re getting a Dell.”

Or what happens if the social message of the week is about the atrocities in Darfur? Will we see Earl raising money for the cause and ER sending doctors?

Perhaps I should have more faith in my favorite shows to weave in the green message subtlety. But, from the press release, it doesn’t seem that subtle is playing a part here. For example, on Las Vegas, the Montecito will host an environmental conference and Delinda takes up the cause to get the staff on board. On, Friday Night Lights, Tami’s sister hits the Taylor household to encourage the family to live a green lifestyle. On 30 Rock, the network pushes its green initiative by getting David Schwimmer to become the green mascot. (Al Gore and Meredith Vieira also guest star.)

Even Days of Our Lives and the late night talk shows are producing green messages. So, get set for a week full of TV preaching the greatness of green. I’m warning you now, do don’t kill the messenger.

For more information on the green initiative, visit this NBC Web site, Green is Universal, where you can find "The More You Know" eco-friendly messages from NBC stars, green blogs from the executive producers of shows such as Las Vegas, as well as videos which willfeature highlights from the shows, celebrity public serviceannouncements, and a behind-the-scenes look at Days of Our Lives star Peter Reckell's environmentally sound home.

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Tube news

The My Name is Earl cast has a funny new music video coming out this Thursday during the show, but you can get an early look here. The new video Respect the Meat showcases Darnell pleading for animal rights and asking the Camden County residents to rethink their dining choices. Joy, Catalina, Earl and Randy also star. The bonus: Darnell has an amazing voice. I’m talking Marvin Gaye style crooning here

Patrick Swayze has been cast in the upcoming A&E original series Beast, according to The Hollywood Reporter. He’ll play an “unorthodox but effective FBI veteran who trains a new partner (Travis Fimmel, Tarzan) in his hard-edged, psychologically clever style, while being pursued by a secret Internal Affairs team.” Insert your own, “Nobody puts Baby in a corner” joke here.

Three Friday Night Lights stars are auditioning for the big-screen Justice League movie, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Minka Kelly, Adrianne Palicki and Scott Porter are taking part in the two-day casting session. The O.C.’s Adam Brody is also among the group of 40 young Hollywood stars up for roles in the film about Superman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Batman and more.

Attention all WB, UPN and CW fans. A new book, Season Finale: The Unexpected Rise and Fall of The WB and UPN goes on sale this week and it looks juicy. Authors Susanne Daniels, a television executive with The WB for most of its life and current President of Entertainment for Lifetime Networks, and Cynthia Littleton, a veteran television reporter and current Deputy Editor of news development for Variety, take readers behind the scenes of the networks’ greatest shows. Insider stories and and never-before-published details from producers including JJ Abrams (Felicity), Amy Sherman-Palladino (Gilmore Girls), Joss Whedon (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) and Kevin Williamson (Dawson’s Creek) provide a tell-all account of the dueling creative teams that ushered some of television’s most popular shows into the hearts, minds, and living rooms across the country. The book goes on sale October 16. Maybe we’ll finally get to the bottom of what really happened to the dancing frog.

The folks at Ghost Whisperer want your scary stories captured on video. If your story is chosen, you’ll get to appear in the Scariest Story Ever Told. Submission deadline is October 25.

CBS has tapped Regis Philbin to host its new primetime game show Million Dollar Password for midseason 2008. The new show is a modernized version of the classic Password, according to the press release from CBS. The show will feature two teams, comprised of one celebrity and one contestant, each competing to guess a password revealed only to the studio audience and viewers at home. Didn’t Regis already try the game show thing once already?

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Halloween costumes for TV lovers

Planning your Halloween costume just got a whole lot easier. Here at Tube Talk, we’re dedicated to making sure you spread the gospel of the small screen on Halloween with some fun TV-themed costumes.

The funniest costume I’ve seen this year is for Ugly Betty. ABC is hooking you up with Betty’s infamous signature Guadalajara poncho at its Web site. Braces, glasses and stringy-hair are not included in the $39.95 price. All orders this week at the ABC Web site are 10 percent off. (No, I’m not getting a commission, but if ABC would like to help a girl out, I wouldn’t refuse it.)

If Ugly Betty isn’t your taste, then how about going to the party as Dr. McDreamy? You’re sure to at least score a date or some mouth-to-mouth. Grey’s Anatomy doctors’ scrubs and lab coats would make fun costumes.

For the more daring, or should I say desperate, dress as Desperate Housewives’ Gabrielle in her pink and green joy apron. Underneath garments are optional. As you know, Gabrielle didn’t even wear undies on her wedding day.

For the sports fan, NBC is offering a Tim Riggins football jersey that could easily be transformed into a Halloween costume. Just add some eye black and shoulder pads, and you’ll feel like a Dillon panther. Be warned, though, Riggins usually ends up in a fight with someone, so the pads are a necessity.

There are plenty of other TV-centric Halloween costumes online. From a Homer Simpson mask, to an I Love Lucy ensemble, to Saturday Night Live’s Mary Katherine Gallagher, or Geico Cavemen, or Hannah Montana, even the choosiest TV fan can find something to their liking.

So if you want to make a lasting impression, why not go as a TV character. I mean, who could resist someone dressed as Lt. Dangle from Reno 911? Not this TV girl.

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Friday Night Lights scores with season premiere

Friday Night Lights returned on Friday, and to put it bluntly, I’m obsessed. The show came out swinging, doing what it does best: real, honest, heartfelt drama.

There was plenty of humor, too. From Coach Taylor calling Matt “The Saracen” to Landry’s hilarious dating problem-solving philosophy: When in doubt, ask yourself “WWRD – What would Riggins do?” Priceless.

I know I’ve been preaching the FNL love here at Tube Talk to the point you’re probably sick of hearing it, but somebody listened. Ratings were up 200,000 over the season one finale. Woo Hoo! The season two premiere scored 6.48 million viewers. I was hoping the show would bring in 8 or 9 million viewers, but hey, an improvement is an improvement, so I’ll take it.

After a spectacular season one of Friday Night Lights, I was concerned that season two might not meet the high standard set forth last year. There’s no need to worry. The Taylors had a baby girl. Eric took the job out of town. Julie is having trouble adjusting to her father’s absence and to being the quarterback’s girlfriend. Lyla became a born-again Christian. Riggins is still rebellious Riggins. Tyra and Landry have bonded. Jason is coaching. And Buddy is a mess, after his marriage fell apart.

The only fumble in the season premiere was that my beloved Landry is now apparently a murderer. Landry was protecting Tyra from a rapist, when he clocked that psycho in the head with a club. Instead of calling the cops, Tyra insisted they dump the body in the river. Huh? This silly plot device is right out of an episode of Melrose Place. It’s far beneath the perfection of Friday Night Lights.

The beauty of this show is that it’s about the real moments in life, not absurd murder plots. (See the scene where Eric and Julie have a confrontation about her recent behavior. He cornered his daughter with all the finesse of a bull in a china shop, to try and get her talking about her life. It was raw, honest and brilliant.) I have faith that the FNL honchos will remedy the “Landry is a murderer” plot. Perhaps, the psycho won’t be dead, after all.

Here are a couple other observations:
--Kyle Chandler, you look better every year. Is there an aging portrait in your attic?

--Matt and Landry I love you both, but please stop all the stuttering. It was cute at first, but when it starts interfering with being able to understand what you’re saying, it needs to stop.

--Can the Taylors adopt me? The way they talk with daughter Julie is a dream for any teenager or adult.

--Tyra’s new hair is cute.

Welcome back, FNL. We’ve missed you!

What did you think of the season premiere? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Tonight’s TV: Friday Night Lights returns

Friday is quickly becoming one of my favorite nights of TV. You’re probably saying, “Jennifer, it’s Friday! What’s next, are you’re going to start watching Law & Order and CSI?

Before you say you don’t know me anymore, let me explain.

One of my favorite dramas from last season, Friday Night Lights, returns with its season premiere tonight in a new night and time. NBC moved Friday Night Lights to Fridays, which makes sense, right? If you’re actually out at a small-town football game instead of home on a Friday night, then don’t forget to set your DVR or VCR to watch this enchanting drama. Friday Night Lights struggled in the ratings last year, so I’m hoping the rest of the world listened to all my badgering this summer and watched the reruns or the DVDs.

In addition to Friday Night Lights, Friday night boasts several other fun shows, perfect to kick off the weekend: Las Vegas, Moonlight, and returning next Friday, Men in Trees. See? I’m not crazy. That’s a strong TV lineup for any night.

Here’s what looks interesting tonight:

8 p.m. Pushing Daisies ENCORE on ABC, Ghost Whisperer on CBS

9 p.m. Friday Night Lights on NBC, Moonlight on CBS, Private Practice ENCORE on ABC, K-Ville ENCORE on FOX

10 p.m. Las Vegas

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Watch the season premiere of Friday Night Lights early

If you’re like me, you’ve missed the Friday Night Lights gang this summer. For those of you who can’t wait until Oct. 5 for the new season premiere, Yahoo TV is offering the season premiere right now.

I’ve seen the first few minutes, and I couldn’t be more pleased. My beloved Landry is front and center.

There is no sophomore slump here, folks. Friday Night Lights looks like it may be even better this season than last. Yeah, I didn’t think that was possible either.

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Tube News

Smallville fans, if you haven’t completed your DVD set of past seasons, now is your chance. Amazon is offering past seasons for an incredible price, $23.99. I knew I should have waited for the DVD discount, but what can I say? I don’t always think clearly when Clark Kent is involved.

Desperate Housewives is about to get more interesting. The gardener is returning. Yes, cutie-patootie Jesse Metcalfe is headed back to Wisteria Lane, according to TV Guide. Apparently, he wants Gaby back. Hmmm…. where does that leave Carlos and her new husband?

It’s no secret that Kristen Bell can sing. Anyone who caught her stint on Broadway or her karaoke session on Veronica Mars knows that Bell has a killer voice. Now, she apparently is forming a band with TV star Clark Duke. They’re calling the band Kung-Fu Professor, New York Magazine is reporting. Love it!

Busy Philipps, of ER and Dawson’s Creek fame, is set to guest star on How I Met Your Mother. She’ll play, as you may have guessed, one of Ted’s dates. Between Mandy Moore, Danica McKellar, and Busy, Ted is going to one busy guy this season.

Kevin Smith fans, check out this interview with Smith about his new gig: directing the CW show Reaper. I just watched the pilot for Reaper and it’s great!


The ABC Family drama Lincoln Heights will premiere on Tuesday, September 4th at 8 p.m. ET. I don’t watch the show, but I know some of you do. So, enjoy.

Smallvile’s Allison Mack was voted TV Choice Sidekick at the Teen Choice Awards. Congrats, Allison. You’re our favorite sidekick, too.

Rosie O’Donnell will not be appearing on Friday Night Lights, TV Guide is reporting. O’Donnell was reported to be playing the role of a soccer coach, but apparently the gig didn’t work out.

Jason Alexander will join his fellow former Seinfeld co-star Julia Louis-Dreyfus on The New Adventures of Old Christine as a guest star. No date has been released.

Scott Baio is 45…and Single is a hit. The show is being renewed for next year, despite that Baio is no longer single. He’s engaged. The show ranked among the top 10 basic cable programs in its time slot, with an average of 1 million viewers in the key 18-49 demo, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

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