Welcome “Raj” to Nip/Tuck

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.

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

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.

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Happy New Year!

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.

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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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Nip/Tuck or Nip YUCK?

by Jennifer Squires Biller

There is pushing the envelope and then there’s Nip/Tuck.

If you’ve been reading Tube Talk the past few months, you know I’ve been singing the praises of Nip/Tuck again, after it got off track a couple seasons ago with that whole demented Carver storyline. The show moved to Los Angeles and seemed to get back to what attracted viewers in the first place: the complex characters we love.

That was until Tuesday’s episode.

That episode pushed the squeamish bar so far that at times it was unwatchable. If a mutilated corpse, graphic surgeries, a cannibalism story, a disturbing murder admission to a child, and hammertoes weren’t enough to send your hand covering your eyes, then the scene where a man was killed, as he was stuffed like a teddy bear, surely would have.

The episode was so over-the-top disturbing that I thought for a moment I was watching the Nip/Tuck of two years ago.

My biggest complaint with the show through the years is that Sean and Christian never seem to get involved with “normal” people. Almost every woman introduced in the past three years has been a complete wacko. Are there no normal people in Miami or L.A. who don’t have sex obsessions, stalker personalities, or murder on the mind? Come on.

Nip/Tuck is at its best when it gets back to the basics: the characters we love - Sean, Julia, Christian and Liz - not the over-the-top crazies that seem to continuously come and go through the revolving door. The real story of Nip/Tuck is between Sean and Christian and how they can ever get past the fact that Christian fell for his best friend’s wife. (At least I thought he had.) It seems now that the woman Christian has coveted for the past 20 years is now just like any other to him, disposable.

I don’t get it. And I don’t get why the show suddenly is going back down this ridiculous dark road of psychopaths. We all know where it leads. Before long, Sean and Christian will be headed to the swamp with a trunk full of hams.

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Let’s talk TV: The week in review

Brothers and Sisters
I’m about to make a bold statement. Brothers and Sisters is the best drama on television right now. Last night’s intervention episode showed just how compelling television can be when all the pieces fall in place. And by all the pieces I mean tight, top-notch writing and superb acting. Dave Annable and Sally Field made me cry. And that’s hard to do during the weekend! The beauty of Brothers and Sisters is the creative balance of humor and drama. Even in the midst of a heart-wrenching drug intervention, the Walkers can still make me smile with a one-liner or a sarcastic barb. If you’re not watching this show, do yourself a favor and tune in. If nothing else, it will make your family holiday dinners seem much less dysfunctional.

Grey’s Anatomy
Can we please stop with all the George and Izzie booty calls? I think I speak for most of us when I say, “Ewwww!” And what was the deal with the fantasy and the tub? On second thought, I don’t want to know. My jaw hit the floor when Izzie called George the best sex she’d ever had. Huh? Did she forget about all those smoking hot encounters with Alex? I’m begging here, Grey’s honchos, please stop this madness. As for Meredith, I didn’t think it was possible to dislike her character more than I already did, but well done, writers; mission accomplished. Meredith’s constant verbal abuse of Lexie is working my last nerve. I was cheering when Lexie finally broke and screamed, “Screw you!” You go, Lexie. And can we all do a happy dance for Bailey, that she finally got the job she deserved all along. Although, that strange crying outburst with the chief, after he told her, seemed a little out of character for tough-as-nails Bailey. Finally, Mr. Man Tart, Mark Sloan, is adorable. But, I think his attempts to flirt with Hahn are futile. I’m pretty sure she doesn’t play for his team.

Back to You
I love it when TV shows pay tribute to other TV shows, and Back to You tipped its hat to Buffy the Vampire Slayer this week. Former Buffy star Charisma Carpenter guest starred on this week’s episode of Back to You, and her son was named - wait for it - Zander. Hysterical!

The Office
Jim Halpert, my heart aches for you. (Not the way you’re thinking, Tubers!) On Thursday, it appeared that Jim was facing the sad realization that he could easily become Michael, if he stayed at Scranton for the foreseeable future. The camera caught his look of utter devastation, and it was heartbreaking. Don’t worry, Jim. There is no way you could ever become as silly as Michael. His over-the-top antics are getting more and more ridiculous. A nature retreat man vs. wild? Come on.

Men in Trees
What is it about women on ABC shows waxing their own eyebrows before their weddings? It never ends well. It was a disaster for Grey’s Anatomy Cristina and the same thing happened to poor Annie on Men in Trees. Ladies, it’s like $15-$20 to have a professional cosmetologist wax your eyebrows. I’m just saying. This episode was laugh-out-loud funny, as wedding preparations got underway. And in true Elmo fashion, chaos ensued. The minister quit, the reception hall closed down, the mothers were feuding, the cat lost the rings, and the location was a bust. If that weren’t enough, scary wild wolves descended on the town and cornered poor Marin in a to-die-for cliffhanger. I don’t know about anyone else, but that scene gave me a flashback to my youth when I watched a similar episode of Little House on the Prairie featuring an angry wild pack of wolves that scarred me for life.

Bones
I know I’m in the minority here, but I love Booth and Cam. Their pretense of a relationship to fool her family had me in stitches. Bones didn’t seem quite so happy about it, though, did she? Oh well, maybe she and Booth can talk about it at couples therapy. Also, I can’t wait to see Angela’s husband. I haven’t seen so much build up for an off-screen character since the days of Cheers’ Norm and his often-mentioned wife. And did you guys recognize Sam Jones, formerly Pete on Smallville, as the gay scientist? Little Pete is all grown up now.


Ugly Betty
Matron of honor Posh Spice was campy, and in perfect Ugly Betty fashion, so was the wedding of Willie and Bradford. Amanda entertained the packed church of uptight society folks with her version of “My milkshake brings all the boys to the yard.” Yes, it was as funny as it sounds. Marc’s shaggy boyfriend finally embraced his inner metrosexual and got a shave, a haircut and wardrobe to die for. But, that wasn’t the biggest shock of the night. That honor went to Bradford, collapsing with a heart attack during the ceremony, after Daniel told him that his Wilhemena was cheating. In an episode so packed with humor, drama and camp, it seemed there was room for little else but wedding details, but wrong. Daniel found out Betty had known about Willie’s boy toy all along, and fired Betty for not telling. Yes, it got ugly. With so many surprises in this episode, I can’t imagine what’s left for next week. But knowing the Ugly Betty folks, I’m sure I won’t be disappointed.

Smallville
OK, I’m just going to say it. The opening scenes of newly super-empowered Lana and Clark having such “super” sex that it literally shattered the Earth and caused seismic tremors all over Smallville was groan-worthy. On the plus side, Clark finally got some, which apparently has been a problem in the past due to his super strength and Lana’s mere mortal abilities. Yeah, I didn’t want to think about it either, so thanks Smallville writers for going there. I always enjoy badass Lana, when she morphs into Lana Fu and kicks butt. But I really enjoy the Lana and Lex interaction. Those two are hot. Their kiss had more chemistry going on than one of Lex’s secret laboratories. What a shame Smallville has wasted all these years with Lana and Clark, when she and Lex are downright combustible. I find Lana bearable when she’s sparring with Lex or about to electrocute him. As for Chloe, it’s clear that Jimmy is moving on with Kara. I say good riddance. Chloe needs to find a man worthy of her, someone who isn’t a geek or a meteor freak. Oliver is headed back to town and now that Lois is macking on her new boss, I think Chloe could use a little comforting from the Emerald Archer. And one more thing, Smallville hair people, please stop cutting Chloe’s hair!

Nip/Tuck
Christian Troy, you’ve been a bad, bad boy. Jealousy doesn’t suit Christian. His hilarious attempt to garner some attention was one of the funniest scenes on the tube this week, as he posed nude for a girly magazine and his body suffered a little, how should I put this? stage fright? Thank goodness his publicist was off camera and willing to do her part to “inflate” his… ego. In a surprising twist, Julia came to visit and dropped the news that she is now a lesbian. At least the boys can finally stop fighting over her, since she no longer plays for their team. But poor Sean, this is going to eat away at his confidence as a man. First, Julia cheated on him with a midget and now she’s sleeping with a woman. Ouch.

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Nip/Tuck: Back to basics

I’ve seen tonight’s episode of Nip/Tuck, and it’s so deliciously good that I’m telling you to put it on your “to do” list.

Julia (Joely Richardson) returns tonight. She flies to L.A. to share some news and brings guest star Portia de Rossi with her. Sean deals with stardom, as he gains notoriety for his role on Hearts and Scalpels. And Christian poses for a nudie magazine in an effort to boost his popularity, in one of the funniest scenes ever.

The show has returned to the fun-loving boys we know and love. There isn’t a dwarf, a Carver or an evil mafia don in sight.

I’d like to say “thank you” to the writers for getting back to the basics of this show. It’s much more interesting to see Christian and Sean dealing with middle age and the superficiality of Hollywood, instead of the insane plot twists that have been cooked up over the past couple years.

In a fascinating twist, Christian, a man who his whole life has used his looks and charm to get what he wants, is coming to terms with his aging body. This isn’t a slam on Julian McMahon, because he’s still so smoking hot it should be a crime, but he actually does look older and a little less fit this year. Is it makeup and a false receding hairline for the show, or is it McMahon aging naturally? Whatever the answer, his body changes are working well because it’s rattling his confidence, especially in light of Sean’s Hollywood good looks and growing popularity.

I’m happy to see Julia returning. She and Christian still have sizzling chemistry. Check out this sneak peek of tonight’s episode to see what I mean. It picks up right after Christian finishes his naked push-ups. (Thanks to the writers for that, too.)

Nip/Tuck airs on FX at 10 p.m. Tuesdays.

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Nip/Tuck returns tonight

One of my favorite primetime shows returns tonight with a whole new look. Nip/Tuck goes Hollywood this season. Christian Troy and Sean McNamara have moved from Miami to Beverly Hills and are trying to rebuild their plastic surgery practice.

In a hilarious twist, Sean and Christian are acting as consultants on a medical TV show called Hearts and Scalpels. The irresistible Bradley Cooper is that show’s star.

There are plenty of other guest stars lined up this year. Rosie O’Donnell, John Schneider, Portia de Rossi, Lauren Hutton and Daphne Zuniga are signed on.

For those of you worried about the other show regulars, don’t. Creator Ryan Murphy has said that Kimber, Julia, Matt and the gang will end up in California, too.

I’ve also heard a rumor that Julian McMahon may be doing some pushups naked this season. Isn’t that reason enough to watch?

This season looks to be a lot more fun than those past. I’m optimistic that the show will lighten up a bit this season. Nip/Tuck took such a dark turn during the Carver debacle, that I quit watching for a few episodes.

Tune in tonight at 10 p.m. on FX to see how Christian and Sean handle the Hollywood crowd.

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Attention L.A. Nip/Tuck fans

It’s days like these I wish I lived in Los Angeles.

I received an invitation to go hang out at the new Hollywood & Highland McNamara/Troy offices tonight. Unfortunately, I’m on the East Coast, so I won’t get to tell my favorite plastic surgeons what I “don’t like about myself.”

But, if you live in the L.A. area, you’re in luck. Nip/Tuck’s Dylan Walsh (Sean McNamara) and Julian McMahon (Christian Troy) will be meeting with fans to sign autographs. The fun begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Hollywood & Highland Center-Hollywood Plaza Level 2.

If you can’t make the event, you can watch it live through streaming video here.

Any loyal Tube Talk readers who attend, please report back here to give us the 411.

Nip/Tuck returns on FX October 30 at 10 p.m. ET.

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Nip/Tuck contest winners

Thank you to everyone who entered the Nip/Tuck poster contest. There were tons of entries, and I thank you for participating.

A special thanks to all the folks from Germany who entered, or should I say “Danke schön?” I had no idea we had so many Tube Talk readers there.

Without further adieu - cue the drum roll - the three lucky winners are Joe Horan, from Bloomington, Indiana; Crystal Nilpirom, from Waco, Texas; and Billy Coyle, from Canon City, Colorado. Your prizes are on the way.

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Win a Nip/Tuck season 5 poster

Win this poster

Do you know what’s better than your favorite shows returning for a new season?

Free stuff. Specifically, free stuff featuring the handsome mugs of Nip/Tuck’s Julian McMahon and Dylan Walsh.

The folks at FX have provided me with three Nip/Tuck posters from the new season to give to loyal Tube Talk readers.

To enter to win, all you have to do is send an e-mail to jennifer@tube-talk.com with your name and mailing address. In the subject line, please label the e-mail Nip/Tuck Contest. I'll choose three winners randomly.

Did I mention that Julian McMahon is wearing a leather jacket in the posters? That’s incentive enough for you to enter, right? The contest ends October 14, 2007.

Nip/Tuck returns with its new season on Oct. 30 at 10 p.m. on FX.

As a reward for entering this contest, here are some sneak peek photos from the upcoming new season. Enjoy!

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John Schneider goes for a Nip/Tuck

Former Smallville and Dukes of Hazzard star John Schneider is scheduled to guest on an episode of Nip/Tuck this season, according to TV Guide’s Michael Ausiello.
Schneider will play the head of an adult video company who previously worked with ex-porn star Kimber. I’m pretty sure Pa Kent wouldn’t approve.

In other Nip/Tuck scoop, Ausiello is reporting that Julia will switch teams this year. (No, not sports teams.) Julia apparently enters into a lesbian affair with guest star Portia de Rossi’s character.

Poor Sean. This is going to deplete what little self-confidence he had left. First Julia had an affair with the “little person” and now this.

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Tube News: Jason Priestley returns to TV, Nip/Tuck news, Ian Ziering scoop, and Scott Baio’s new show

Jason Priestley returns to TV
Beverly Hills 90210 fans, Brandon Walsh has a new gig. Well, not Brandon exactly, but his portrayer Jason Priestley. He’ll star in tonight’s new Lifetime show Side Order of Life, premiering at 8 p.m. ET. The show is billed as a dramedy. I’ve seen a clip, and it’s funny. Check it out. Following Priestley’s new show at 9 p.m. ET, is the debut of another new series, State of Mind, with Lili Taylor. For more info on both shows, check out Lifetime.

Nip/Tuck news
The Television Critics Association summer press tour is underway, and scoop on the new season of Nip/Tuck is the talk of the weekend. First up, the core cast will be back, including Kimber, Liz, Julia and Matt, despite that our favorite plastic surgeons are moving to L.A., TV Guide reported. Guest stars lined up for the new season include Lauren Hutton, Jennifer Coolidge, Portia de Rossi, Olive Platt, and Bradley Cooper. Yes, that Bradley Cooper. Thank you, Nip/Tuck producers! Also, Rosie O’Donnell will return as Dawn Budge. For more on the upcoming season, check out the story at TV Guide.


Ian Ziering as The Price is Right host?
Earlier this week, the New York Daily News reported that 90210/Dancing With the Stars alum Ian Ziering is in the running for the hosting job at The Price Is Right. He had a callback and really wants the job, the News reported.

Scott Baio is 45 and Single
You know I hate touting reality television shows, but I’m making an exception when it stars one of my, and probably your, TV crushes from the ‘80s. For all of you who crushed on Chachi from Happy Days/ Joanie Loves Chachi and Charles in Charge, Baio is back on television tonight in this reality show about his love life. Rumor has it he’ll confront his former costar Erin Moran about their sordid past. I may regret telling you this, but the show kicks off at 10:30 p.m. ET on VH1. I have a feeling this show is going to be like a car accident, cringe worthy but captivating.

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Exclusive interview with Nip/Tuck’s Kelly Carlson

by Jennifer Squires Biller

She’s sexy.

She’s sweet.

And she’s seen co-star Julian McMahon’s naked butt more times than she can count. (Lucky girl.)

Meet actress Kelly Carlson, who plays beautiful Kimber Henry on the cutting-edge drama Nip/Tuck. You also may have seen Carlson on CSI: Miami, Everwood, and The Bronx Bunny Show.

Carlson is more than a pretty face, as anyone who watches her portrayal of the tortured Kimber knows.

I spoke with her last week by phone, and it was one of the most delightful interviews I’ve ever conducted. We laughed, chatted about her career, and talked about all things Nip/Tuck. (No, ladies, I didn’t bribe her for Julian McMahon’s digits. I’m sure he’ll get around to calling me some day.)

Check out this interview with Carlson, as she discusses what it’s like filming those raunchy scenes with McMahon, what she really thinks of all the celebrity guest stars who stop by to get “nipped and tucked,” and the famous actress who inspired her sexy, short hairstyle.

Jennifer: In the season finale of Nip/Tuck, Christian and Sean decided to move from Miami to Los Angeles. Kimber fans are alarmed that she won’t be making the move to L.A. What can you tell us about that?
Kelly: I’m alarmed, too. (laughing) You know, I don’t know. I know nothing about this next coming year. I’m not worried about it though because Kimber is having a baby, and Matt needs to go there. They’ll work it in there. Kimber is always going to follow Christian. I assure you that. That I know. I’m sure there is going to be some storyline. It’s hard to guess what the writers will come up with. They come up with the most obscene things. If anyone is alarmed about me not (making the move) then write to FX.

Jennifer: Is there any chance of Kimber and Christian rekindling their romance?
Kelly: I hope so. I hope they do because I think that they’re one of the better couples. I think they’re so highly compatible and combustible. Julian and I work really well together, and I think that’s why (the chemistry) comes across. We have a lot of fun. We bicker, too. We have that energy.

Jennifer: What’s it like filming those graphic sex scenes with Julian McMahon? We’re all insanely jealous.
Kelly: If anything, it’s fun. It’s funny.
Jennifer: Really? It’s not awkward?
Kelly: Nooooo! (laughing) Julian and I are the type of people who would probably walk through a stadium naked and not be embarrassed. We’re very naturally comfortable with ourselves, to begin with, so working together is very easy. But it’s important to keep the mood on the set very light because it’s not the actors, I think, that get uncomfortable, but it’s also the people around you. They have to do their jobs, too, and it is uncomfortable for them, too. The sound guy is right there. They’re trying not to look. And believe me, they’re embarrassed for you.
Jennifer: I’d love to see the blooper reel. I bet that’s fun.
Kelly: (Laughing) Oh yeah, that’s true. But if you laugh and make some jokes and keep it light, yet serious, it makes for a good working day.

Jennifer: I’m going to get all girly on you for a second. Let’s talk about Kimber’s wedding gown for her non-wedding to Christian. That was the most beautiful dress I’ve ever seen.
Kelly: Did you like it?
Jennifer: Like it? Honey, tell me you stole it from wardrobe and have it in your closet at home. You looked incredible. Was it Monique Lhuillier?
Kelly: Yes! She made it for me. It was gorgeous! I loved wearing it. They wouldn’t let me keep it. (Jennifer takes a moment of silence.)

Jennifer: Have you seen a script yet for the new season of Nip/Tuck? Do you know anything about the show storylines and what’s coming up?
Kelly: No. I know they’re working on it right now, but I don’t know anything about it. I would love to know, just like everyone else. I don’t know who is coming back or what guest stars are coming. They’re being real tight-lipped about it, to us even.

Jennifer: What do you think about all the guest stars? Last year we saw, Larry Hagman, Rosie O’Donnell, Jacqueline Bisset and it went on and on. Normally, I’m not a fan of stunt casting, but it seems like on your show it really works.
Kelly: Isn’t that funny that it does work?
Jennifer: Yes, because normally it just means a show has Jumped the Shark.
Kelly: I know that, and you’re right. But I think people know that these people come on our show not to get paid, but to actually do some good work. You know what I mean? We’re on cable, so it’s not like they’re guesting on Friends or Will and Grace. It’s not an exposure thing; it’s not a money thing; it’s what you get to do on the show, and the audience knows that. That’s why I think it works. It doesn’t seem like an act of desperation. These actors come on our show to have fun.
Jennifer: Joan Rivers cracked me up.
Kelly: Wasn’t she hilarious?
Jennifer: What’s it like for you meeting all these Hollywood heavyweights?
Kelly: I don’t always get to meet them. Jacqueline Bisset was amazing. Rosie O’Donnell could not be cooler. She’s one of those very warm, powerful people that you meet in your lifetime. She’s one of those people you meet who makes a difference. And she’s a great actress. She’s so funny. I think she’s coming back.
Jennifer: Yeah, I’ve heard that. I’m hoping. I lover her in the part of Dawn Budge. What a fun character. No one does white trash better.
Kelly: I know, right. (laughing.)

Jennifer: When we first met Kimber, she was perfect looking, yet that cad Christian Troy exploited her image issues and convinced her that she needed plastic surgery. Since then, we’ve watched her fall in love, go a little crazy, downward spiral to drugs, porn, and a series of bad relationships. What’s left for her?
Kelly: Politics? (laughing)
Jennifer: I think she should run for mayor. (more laughing)
Kelly: Or senator.

Jennifer: Can you tell us if Christian Troy is going to be a grandpa courtesy of Kimber? (Hooking up with your ex-fiancée’s son, by the way, kind of cold.)
Kelly: It is! You know, he could be a father or a grandfather.
Jennifer: I was so certain that baby was his.
Kelly: I know, me too. And I think his character was, too. I wouldn’t rule it out.

Jennifer: What storyline would you like to see for Kimber?
Kelly: I’ve thought of Kimber seeing ghosts. I can kind of identify with that…so many storylines have been covered in this show. Any stories you can think of are not as interesting or entertaining as the ones she’s already been in, like scientology and the adult film industry.

Jennifer: What did you think of the controversial scientology arc?
Kelly: I think it’s still gonna go on. I’ve tried to stay out of it. You know, you can’t have too many opinions in this business because it can turn around and bite you. So, I really tried to just be neutral.

Jennifer: What TV shows do you watch?
Kelly: I watch Family Guy, Grey’s Anatomy, and the National Geographic channel.

Jennifer: Would you ever do Dancing With the Stars?
Kelly: No, it would be embarrassing. I can’t touch my toes. I used to be a great dancer, but I’m so unflexible. I wish I could dance like that and be sexy like that.

Jennifer: Let’s talk about The Bronx Bunny Show, on Starz, you guest starred on. What was it like hanging out with those foul-mouthed puppets?
Kelly: The actual puppets are the cutest things you’ve ever seen. For anyone who is familiar with that show, it’s very male driven, kind of sexual. And my character on Nip/Tuck couldn’t agree with it more. They make a lot of references to my sex doll and (Kimber) as a porn-star director. They ask very cheeky questions
Jennifer: I assume that rabbit and his panda sidekick are trying to get you naked at some point.
Kelly: Oh, yeah. It’s funny. It’s senseless humor. It’s not the sort of program where you’re going to do any thinking. They’re razor-tongued puppets that are cute. They put the guests on the spot and embarrass the guests to see how far they can push them. If I could have taken them home with me I would have. They’re the cutest damn puppets I’ve ever seen. They’re so funny.

Jennifer: Were you nervous to do the show, considering it’s billed as the show that asks questions that Leno, Letterman and Oprah don’t?
Kelly: Yeah, I was a little because you can only take so much tongue in cheek. Just because my character (on Nip/Tuck) is so cliché and sexually oriented, I tried to balance it out a little. I was a little nervous about how far they were gonna push it, but I’m also very comfortable with myself, too. Not everyone would be able to do that show, though. I think there would be people that would be offended.

Jennifer: Last question, and it’s a shallow one. Let’s talk hair. Most of the leading ladies of nighttime TV have long, beauty-pageant hair, but you have a sexy, sassy short do that is to die for. Did you cut your hair for this part, or have you always had short hair? I admit I took a photo of it to my stylist to try and duplicate it, but it didn’t work. I didn’t come away with “the Kimber.”
Kelly: I cut my hair like this when I was 21. I just copied Marilyn Monroe’s hair. I used to always have long hair, but my mother does hair, and she has salons, and we kept cutting it inch by inch, and it worked. I get so many compliments, even from men. Most men prefer long hair. But it does look better on me than long hair.

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TV stars on the big screen

Coming soon to a theater near you: Stars from your favorite TV shows.
Chances are if you go to the movie theater in the next few weeks, you’ll catch a glimpse of The Office’s Pam Beesly, Jim Halpert, or Dwight Schrute. Or you may see Scrubs’ J.D., Arrested Development’s Michael Bluth, or Nip/Tuck's Christian Troy. All the actors who play those roles on the small screen now have movies playing on or coming to the big screen. (Check out IMDB to find the current films for each actor.)

TV stars are landing movie projects so frequently now that it’s difficult to find a big-screen project that doesn’t somehow have TV ties. And that makes me happy. It seems the film world has finally noticed the excellence happening on television and is tapping the talent. I can’t say I blame them. Most respected film actors started on the small screen, from Leonardo DiCaprio (Growing Pains) to Brad Pitt (Dallas) to George Clooney (ER.)

Years ago, TV stars rarely got film opportunities, as television was thought of as the bastard stepchild of “serious” actors. Now, flip through the TV dial on any given night, and you’ll find a cornucopia of Hollywood heavyweights, including such names as Glenn Close, Gary Sinese, James Caan, Forest Whitaker, James Spader, Kiefer Sutherland, Alec Baldwin and Rob Lowe.

I stand by my conviction that 80 percent of what is on the tube is better than what’s showing at the local Cineplex. I’m grateful that actors from our favorite shows are getting the chance to make their magic on the big screen, too.

To further prove my point, check out this outrageously funny clip of Scrubs star Zach Braff’s new movie The Ex, that also stars TV-funny guy Jason Bateman. Braff introduces the clip with an intro and a shout-out to his favorite American Idol contestant. The film hits theaters May 11. Mark you calendars.

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Tube News: James Van Der Beek, Eddie Cibrian, Scott Wolf, Marsha Thompson, Grey’s Spinoff, Nikki Cox and Nip/Tuck

ABC is on a casting roll, of late. The network can do no wrong when it comes to hiring talent (and achingly handsome men) as evidenced by the latest additions to its upcoming crop of new shows. Here’s a peek at who’s headed to the alphabet network.

James Van Der Beek - The Beek is back! Van Der Beek has been cast in the new ABC show Football Wives. TV fans everywhere have been waiting for Van Der Beek to return to their screens, permanently, since Dawson’s Creek ended its run. The Beek will play a football player in the new ABC show. The gridiron is not completely foreign to him, as he portrayed a football player in the feature film Varsity Blues. The show is based on the cult BBC show Footballers’ Wives that chronicles the wives of superstar football stars. The show also stars Gabrielle Union, Lucy Lawless, Holly Robinson Peete and Kiele Sanchez. No word yet on which lady will portray Joey Potter, er, Van Der Beek’s love interest.

Eddie Cibrian – Joining Van Der Beek in Football Wives, is Eddie Cibrian, dubbed by Tube Talk Girl as the “The Best Dimples on Television.” TV viewers will recognize Cibrian from his roles on Invasion, Third Watch, and Vanished. Football Wives will also star Ving Rhames. The show is scheduled to debut June 7, just in time to heat up your summer.

Scott Wolf - Wolf has just been cast in a new, yet unamed, ABC comedy about attorneys competing for partnership at a law firm. TV lovers will remember Wolf as Bailey Salinger from Party of Five and also as the cheating doctor on The Nine. Although ABC has not officially cancelled The Nine, the fact that Wolf and Tim Daly have already scored other gigs, doesn’t bode well for the show returning. I guess we’ll never find out what really happened in that darned bank.

Marsha Thompson – Thompson is the latest cast addition to the Lost island of misfits. TV viewers will recognize Thompson from her role as Nessa on the NBC show Las Vegas. No word yet on whether she’s an Other, a Tailie, or if she’s been on the beach all along stealing Sawyer’s stuff.

Chris Lowell and Paul Adelstein – These two are the latest additions to the Grey’s Anatomy two-hour episode/spinoff centering on Addison Montgomery. Some online have jokingly nicknamed the spinoff "Montgomery’s Ward." Lowell is currently starring on Veronica Mars, as Piz, a potential love interest for Veronica. Adelstein can be seen on Prison Break as Agent Kellerman.

Nikki Cox joins CBS show
It didn’t take long for Nikki Cox to score a new gig, after leaving Las Vegas. TV Guide is reporting that Cox is joining a new CBS show, The Stumps of Hollywood. Cox will play a “homely girl whose siblings buy her an extreme makeover,” according to TV Guide. Um, has CBS seen Nikki Cox? She’s the “after” in any conceivable makeover scenario, not the “before.” Michael Rapaport is in talks to join the show, too, according to the online magazine site.

Nip/Tuck casting Nicole Kidman and Madonna?
This year’s Nip/Tuck will be fully stacked with guest stars, said series creator Ryan Murphy. At least 10 guest stars, including Rosie O’Donnell, have been lined up for this year’s show, Murphy told fans at The Museum of Television & Radio’s Paley Festival. Nicole Kidman is on board to guest star, Murphy told Access Hollywood. And Murphy is writing a part for Madonna, who is a fan of the show, according to Extra. Someone should warn Christian Troy.

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Rosie’s Nip/Tuck Spin-off

Apparently Dawn Budge (Rosie O’Donnell), the blue-collar lottery-winning gal we met a few weeks ago on Nip/Tuck, is getting a spin-off series. O’Donnell confirmed the news at her blog earlier this week when she told a reader, “Talks r over I said yes.” Lookout, Miami!

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The week in review

by Jennifer Squires Biller

Nip/Tuck
Rosie O’Donnell stole the show last week on Nip/Tuck as “white trash” lottery winner Dawn Budge. Her theory that money can buy anything, including a $400,000 romp with Christian Troy, proved correct. But in the end, her money didn’t buy happiness, as a lonely, newly liposuctioned Dawn realized. O’Donnell’s brief sex scene with Julian McMahon was one of the funniest in Nip/Tuck’s history, as Dawn rattled on about macaroni and cheese and Christian’s performance. According to O’Donnell’s blog, she ad-libbed that priceless line regarding Christian’s anatomy placement. As for Matt, I’m so sick of this kid disrespecting his parents. It’s just cruel. The brat didn’t deserve that Porsche; a one way ticket to counseling, absolutely, but not that fine example of automotive engineering.

Veronica Mars
Keith Mars had better be breathing this week, instead of going down for the dirt nap, or I’ll be firing off an e-mail to Rob Thomas. Wait a minute. What am I thinking? It’s Keith Mars, daddy to my beloved Veronica. Thomas wouldn’t dare kill Keith, despite how it looked at the end of last week’s show. As the show debuted this season, we met Wallace’s new roommate Piz, saw Logan and Veronica in a post-coital glow, felt sorry for Dick as he mourned his brother’s death, and watched Keith run for his life. Welcome back to the divine “Miss M.” We’ve missed you. But where was Sheriff Lamb? I’m hoping someone breaks the law this week, so the sheriff can come calling. I volunteer for the job, if no one else is game.

Lost
The most anticipated show return of the season started out with a bang. We learned that while the crash victims have been living like animals on the beach, the Others have their own suburban village of houses, book clubs, and neighbors on the other side of the island. I also learned that I hate the Others story arc. There are so many characters already on the canvas with so many stories to tell, that we didn’t need creepy Henry Gale and his gang of question dodgers. Enough already. Give me Desmond, Sayeed, Hurley, Jin, Sun, Sawyer, Jack, John and Kate. On an up note, Sawyer in a cage isn’t a bad thing. He and Kate proved they still have chemistry. In the sweetest scene of the night, he gave her his fish biscuit. (Awww!) But explain this: Hadn’t Kate just eaten a yummy breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, juice and coffee? (That greedy bitch!) As for Jack, Matthew Fox gave an Emmy worthy performance in his scenes. His flashback to losing his wife to another man and accusing his father of sleeping with her were incredible, as was his breakdown at the end of the show. There is no better dramatic actor in primetime than Fox when he cries. Juliette clearly isn’t human, or she would have reached out and comforted the good doctor after his meltdown. The poor guy left me reaching for the Kleenex.

Smallville
Clark Kent discovered his super breath this week. Well, technically, Chloe discovered it, but I won’t quibble. Clark discovering his powers is usually my favorite part of Smallville, and this one didn’t disappoint. Clark’s super-sneezing was hilarious, too, especially when he faked out Chloe at The Daily Planet. I love that Clark shares his secrets with his sidekick, and I can’t wait to see how Chloe’s relationship with Jimmy plays into all of it. I’m not sure yet about Oliver Queen, the archer, and future love interest of Lois Lane. I want to see him go a few rounds with Sexy Lexy and Lois before I make my final judgment. Overall, it was a great episode and beautifully lit, especially during the Chloe/Lois barn door scene and the final Chloe/Clark scene in the loft. I still contend that this is the most visually beautiful show on television. If you aren’t watching Smallville, you’re missing one of the best and most beautiful shows on the tube. And apparently Clark Kent can now control the weather. So, you know, you should get on his good side by tuning in.

Grey’s Anatomy
Apparently real estate in Seattle is a priceless commodity. That’s the only explanation for several wealthy doctors heading to a hotel, instead of trying to find apartments. The Chief, Callie, Addison and Mark are all living at the same hotel now. George, I’m warning you: With Callie’s tendency to walk around naked, I fear it won’t be long before she and the Chief are sharing more than their medical degrees. Izzie is still in mourning, and she needs to snap out of it soon. Seriously, I can’t take much more. I miss spunky Izzie. And I miss cocky, neck-snapping Burke. Meredith seemed to have plenty of spunk left, though, as she laid down the dating rules to Derek (“McDreamy”) and Finn (“I have plans.”) As for my beloved Addison, she broke my heart during her closet cry. Paging McSteamy. I think he may be just what the doctor ordered.

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Tube News

"Nip/Tuck" and "House" season premieres tonight
Don’t forget that the new seasons of Nip/Tuck and House begin tonight. Nip/Tuck returns on F/X at 10 p.m. and House returns on FOX at 9 p.m. For those of you who just can’t wait for a sneak peak at Nip/Tuck, Breath of Fresh Ink has the first photos of the much-talked-about shower scene with Julian McMahon and Mario Lopez. Be warned: these photos are for mature eyes only and may suddenly give you the urge to take a shower. After looking at those pictures, I think it’s safe to say who I’ll be rooting for in this season’s Dancing with the Stars. (Lopez all the way!) Who knew A.C. Slater had all those (cough, cough) assets.


Steve Irwin deat at 44
Television’s Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin was killed Monday, while swimming with a stingray on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Irwin was videotaped pulling a poisonous stingray barb from his chest in his last moments of life, according to the Associated Press. For more on his tragic death, check out the story at MSN.

Smallville photos from new season
Those of you who can’t wait until Sept. 28 for a new episode of Smallville, you can get a sneak peak of the season premiere production stills at Devoted to Smallville. Spoiler-phobes, you have been warned. Chlark fans, there is some eye candy there for you, too.

My Network TV debuts new shows tonight
Fashion House and Desire, two new shows from the new channel My Network TV, debut tonight at 9 p.m. EST and 8 p.m. EST, respectively. Fashion House stars Bo Derek and Morgan Fairchild and is set in the cut-throat world of the fashion industry. Desire stars Sofia Milos and Nate Haden. The shows will air five nights a week, with a Saturday recap for their 13-week story arcs. For trailers and prequels of Fashion House and Desire, check out www.mynetworktv.com.

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“Nip/Tuck” casting news: Larry Hagman and others

by Jennifer Squires Biller

First Rosie O’Donnell was reported to be guest starring in this season’s Nip/Tuck and now it appears a few more familiar faces will be hanging out with our favorite plastic surgeons. Larry Hagman, aka J.R. Ewing, will star as Burt Landau, the new owner of McNamara/Troy, according to some reliable sources. He supposedly wants to have surgery on his…well, I don’t want to spoil you, so let’s just say it is a part of the anatomy that J.R. Ewing was known for. Can you imagine J.R. and Christian Troy butting heads? I can hardly wait. Hagman isn’t the only big-name guest star on the Nip/Tuck lineup this fall.

Kathleen Turner is also starring as a 50-year-old phone sex operator seeking surgery to repair her signature voice. (I always knew there was something seductively strange about her Dove chocolate commercials.) Also scheduled to guest star is Mario Lopez, best known as hunky AC Slater on Saved By The Bell, according to TV Guide. His character supposedly is “infuriatingly fit” and shares screen time with Christian at the gym. Slater and Dr. Troy working out at the same gym. Hmm...how do I get a subscription to that sweat shop?

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