Michael Scott can relax about who will take over the office when he moves up to corporate. One can only assume that Karen is going to snag the job, after hearing the FOX fall schedule today.
Rashida Jones, who plays Karen, filmed a new comedy series for FOX called The Rules for Starting Over, and it was picked up for the FOX schedule.
While I’m happy for Rashida, I hate to see her leave The Office. I love Karen. She makes Jim smile, and they have great chemistry. I’ve never heard of an actor doing two shows at once, but I wouldn’t mind Jones blazing that new territory. Pulling double-duty could be tough, but Karen isn’t in a lot of scenes, so it could be possible, right?
OK, enough with the wishful thinking. I guess she’ll move on. The question is how?
Karen had better not break Jim’s heart, or walking across hot coals will be the least of the tortures I have planned for her.
Jones’ new show also stars Craig Bierko, formerly of Boston Legal.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
The Office: Is Karen headed to corporate?
Subscribe by RSSAmerican Idol: Elimination night….shock, silence, and a big ol’ “What the *@!?”
by guest bloggers Becky and Bethany
Last night’s elimination on American Idol proved to be one of the most shocking nights on television. Well, maybe not the most shocking night, but close.
After 55 minutes of a drawn-out show, we were told that Melinda Doolittle, the only contestant who consistently performed GREAT and who WE were sure was going to be in the final two, was booted. Frankly, we are a bit stunned, but probably shouldn’t have been.
We knew that because Melinda has a more mature voice and is more mature in general that she wouldn’t win Idol. We’ve said that for weeks. But what a shame. She has at least been consistent, which is something that Jordin has not been for the last three shows.
Blake appeals to young girls and everyone who is off the mainstream a bit, and we can understand why he is in the final two, plus he’s cute. But after the last few performances from Jordin, we are beginning to wonder if all of Sanjaya’s fans and all the people who are NFL fans are voting for her. Plus, she just doesn’t seem to have that perky modest personality that she had before. She seems a bit….spoiled.
All we know is that American Idol is a reflection of our society that we live in. It is a popularity contest. And while we have always known this, it’s a bitter pill to swallow the morning after great talent has been let go.
Of course, this may be a positive for Melinda. Look at Chris Daughtry and where he is right now. He has an awesome CD out. And look at Elliot Yamin, last year’s second runner up. He’s got a new set of pearly white veneers and lustrous curly locks and as an added bonus, he has a CD out in stores also.
A word of advice though for Melinda, if you do decide to get new teeth, just look at Elliot and take a deep breath. Don’t go overboard.
Needless to say, we’re just kind of deflated right now and very discontent with the whole show. So, we’ll end with a Bonne Adieu and be back next week with all the details of the finale.
NBC to air remaining episodes of Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
By now you’ve heard the news that Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip isn’t returning next season. That’s right. It’s been cancelled. (Go ahead. Take a moment. I’m still recovering myself.)
What you haven’t heard is that the network plans to air the remaining episodes beginning May 24, according to my source at NBC.
So, perhaps we’ll get to see a satisfying end to the Harriet, Matt and Danny storylines.
Why this show wasn’t a hit with viewers baffles me. It had good writing, a top-notch cast and an interesting premise. Then again, someone wasn’t being voted off an island, ridiculed or choosing a bride, so I guess it wasn’t for the masses.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
CBS unveils fall schedule: Jericho cancelled
CBS is introducing five new shows this fall, including one comedy, three dramas and one reality series, according to the press release from the network I just found in my e-mail box.
As for what won’t be returning, sorry Jericho fans, it’s done. The show apparently wasn’t da bomb with the network.
The Amazing Race and The New Adventures of Old Christine are scheduled to return midseason, so don’t panic that they aren’t included on the fall schedule.
And all of you Ghost Whisperer fans who’ve been e-mailing me (who knew there were so many of you?) relax. Jennifer Love is back in all her glory.
My favorite CBS comedy How I Met Your Mother is back, too. Can I get a Woo-Hoo?
Also returning are: CSI: Miami, NCIS, The Unit, Criminal Minds, CSI: NY, Without A Trace, Ghost Whisperer, Numb3rs, Cold Case, Shark, 48 Hours: Mystery, Crimetime Saturday, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Two And A Half Men, Rules Of Engagement; 60 Minutes, and Survivor.
CBS is introducing some interesting new shows this fall, including Viva Laughlin, a mystery drama with a musical element; Cane, starring Jimmy Smits as the head of a powerful South Florida Cuban-American family; Moonlight, a romantic thriller with a new twist on the vampire legend; The Big Bang Theory, a comedy about genius geeks from Two and A Half Men co-creator Chuck Lorre; and Kid Nation, a reality series where 40 kids will try to build a new society in an abandoned ghost town.
Here’s the complete primetime schedule, with a synopsis of the new shows at the end. New shows are listed in bold.
2007-2008 PRIMETIME SCHEDULE
(N=New, NT=New Time, all times ET/PT)
MONDAY
8:00-8:30 PM HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER
8:30-9:00 PM THE BIG BANG THEORY (N)
9:00-9:30 PM TWO AND A HALF MEN
9:30-10:00 PM RULES OF ENGAGEMENT
10:00-11:00 PM CSI: MIAMI
TUESDAY
8:00-9:00 PM NCIS
9:00-10:00 PM THE UNIT
10:00-11:00 PM CANE (N)
WEDNESDAY
8:00-9:00 PM KID NATION (N)
9:00-10:00 PM CRIMINAL MINDS
10:00-11:00 PM CSI: NY
THURSDAY
8:00-9:00 PM SURVIVOR
9:00-10:00 PM CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION
10:00-11:00 PM WITHOUT A TRACE (NT)
FRIDAY
8:00-9:00 PM GHOST WHISPERER
9:00-10:00 PM MOONLIGHT (N)
10:00-11:00 PM NUMB3RS
SATURDAY
8:00-9:00 PM CRIMETIME SATURDAY
9:00-10:00 PM CRIMETIME SATURDAY
10:00-11:00 PM 48 HOURS: MYSTERY
SUNDAY
7:00-8:00 PM 60 MINUTES
8:00-9:00 PM VIVA LAUGHLIN (N)
9:00-10:00 PM COLD CASE
10:00-11:00 PM SHARK (NT)
New Shows:
COMEDY
THE BIG BANG THEORY — A comedy from the Emmy Award nominated Co-Creator and Executive Producer of "Two and a Half Men" Chuck Lorre, about brainy best friends Leonard (Johnny Galecki, "Roseanne") and Sheldon (Jim Parsons "Judging Amy"), who can tell you anything you want to know about quantum physics, but when it comes to dealing with everyday life here on earth they're lost in the cosmos. Neither fully understands that scientific principles don't always apply in matters of the heart — until they meet their sexy new neighbor Penny (Kaley Cuoco, "8 Simple Rules…"), a friendly screenwriter/waitress from the midwest who also happens to be newly single. She quickly makes an impression on the other members of Leonard and Sheldon's geek squad — Howard Wolowitz (Simon Helberg, "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip"), who portrays himself as the Casanova of Cal Tech, and fellow whiz kid Rajesh Koothrappali (Kunal Nayyar, "NCIS"), who is rendered speechless around anyone unprepared to converse about the Theory of Relativity or other scientific jargon. The chemistry between this gaggle of geniuses and a delightful damsel is about to undergo a stimulating series of inter-personal experiments. Multiple Emmy Award winner James Burrows ("Will & Grace") directed the pilot. Lorre and Bill Prady ("Gilmore Girls," "Dharma & Greg") are executive producers for Warner Bros. Television.
DRAMAS
VIVA LAUGHLIN — Executive produced by Tony and Emmy Award winner Hugh Jackman ("The Boy from Oz," "X-Men"), VIVA LAUGHLIN is a mystery drama with music about eternal optimist and freewheeling businessman Ripley Holden, whose sole ambition is to run a casino in Laughlin, Nev. Occasionally using upbeat contemporary songs to accentuate the drama and humor and advance the story, the series is based on the hit BBC show "Viva Blackpool." Ripley (Lloyd Owen, "The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles") is the ultimate gambler with an infectious personality who is on the brink of making a killing… just as soon as he opens his casino that's nowhere near completion. When his financing suddenly falls through, the fearless and tenacious Ripley approaches his enemy — dashing, sarcastic, wealthy casino owner Nicky Fontana (Hugh Jackman) for help. Though the odds are stacked against him, Ripley doesn't miss a beat, even when he becomes embroiled in a murder investigation after the body of his ex-business partner is found at his club. At home, Ripley uses his dry wit to adjust to the demands of his family: his gorgeous wife, Natalie (Madchen Amick, "ER"), wants more attention; his teenage daughter, Cheyenne (Ellen Woglom, "The O.C."), wants his approval; and his son, Jack (Carter Jenkins, "Surface"), wants to help him at work. All of this adversity would defeat a lesser man, but for the outgoing and passionate Ripley there's no such thing as bad news, only deals to be struck and wagers to be won in the intoxicating neon glow of Laughlin, where the cards are on the table, romance is in the air and lively music is on the stage. Eric Winter ("Wildfire") and D.B. Woodside ("24") also star. Directed by Gabriele Muccino ("The Pursuit of Happyness"). Golden Globe Award nominee Hugh Jackman, John Palermo ("X-Men: The Last Stand"), Bob Lowry ("Huff"), Paul Telegdy and Peter Bowker ("Viva Blackpool") are executive producers for BBC Worldwide Productions, Seed Productions, CBS Paramount Network Television in association with Sony Pictures Television.
CANE — Stars Emmy and Golden Globe Award winner Jimmy Smits ("The West Wing") in an epic drama about the external rivalries and internal power struggles of a large Cuban-American family running an immensely successful rum and sugar business in South Florida. When the family patriarch, Pancho (Hector Elizondo, "Chicago Hope"), is offered a lucrative but questionable deal by his bitter adversary, the Samuels, to purchase thousands of acres of sugar fields, he's faced with a tough choice: Should he cash out of the sugar business and focus solely on rum, which would please his impulsive natural son, Frank (Nestor Carbonell, "Lost"), or protect the family legacy that he built from the ground up by not selling, and side with his adopted son, Alex (Smits), who mistrusts the Samuels and still sees value in sugar. Alex and Frank's approach to business is as different as their approach to life. While Frank might lose focus chasing women, Alex is deeply in love with his beautiful wife, Isabel (Paola Turbay, "Bailando por un Sueño"), who is also Pancho's daughter. Married when she was just 17 years old, Isabel balances Alex by choosing not to involve herself in the business, focusing instead on their three children, who are determined to forge their own paths outside the family. For the Duques, will family allegiance come first or will their secrets and acrimonious conflicts over love, lust and control of the family fortune be their downfall? Eddie Matos ("General Hospital"), Rita Moreno ("West Side Story"), Michael Trevino ("The Riches"), Lina Esco ("CSI: NY"), Sam Carman ("Bones"), Alona Tal ("Veronica Mars") and Polly Walker ("Rome") also star. Cynthia Cidre ("The Mambo Kings"), Jonathan Prince ("American Dreams"), Jimmy Iovine ("8 Mile") and Polly Anthony ("Lifehouse: Live in Portland!") are the executive producers for ABC Studios in association with CBS Paramount Network Television.
MOONLIGHT — From prolific movie producer Joel Silver ("The Matrix," Trilogy), is about Mick St. John (Alex O'Loughlin, upcoming "White Out"), a captivating "undead" private investigator who uses his acute vampire senses to help the living… instead of feeding on them. In an agonizing twist of fate, Mick was "bitten" 60 years ago by his new bride, the seductive and beguiling Coraline (Amber Valletta, "Hitch"). Immortal and eternally as young, handsome and charismatic as he was then, Mick is sickened by Coraline and other vampires who view humans only as a source of nourishment. With only a handful of undead confidantes for company, including deceitful ally Josef (Rade Serbedzija, "24"), Mick fills his infinite days protecting the living, and trying not to think about how his life would have been if he hadn't followed his heart. However, after six decades of resisting, he wonders if it's time to pursue the love of a mortal. He has his eyes on Beth Turner, a beautiful, ambitious reporter who has been covering the ongoing plague of unusual murders. But would Beth even consider giving up a normal life to be with him, and can Mick risk the pain of seeing himself as a monster in her eyes? As Mick lives between two realities, fighting his adversaries among the undead and falling in love with Beth, he knows he needs to figure out a reason to keep "living." MOONLIGHT is directed by executive producer Rod Holcomb ("ER"). Joel Silver, Ron Koslow ("Birds of Prey"), Trevor Munson and Gerard Bocaccio are also executive producers for Warner Bros. Television.
The new reality series is:
KID NATION is a reality-based series in which 40 kids will have 40 days to build a new world — in a ghost town that died in the 19th Century. These kids, ages 8-15, will spend more than a month without their parents or modern comforts in Bonanza City, N.M., attempting to do what their forefathers could not — build a town that works. They will cook their own meals, clean their own outhouses, haul their own water and even run their own businesses — including the old town saloon (root beer only). They'll also create a real government — four kid leaders who will guide the group through their adventure, pass laws and set bedtimes. Through it all, they'll cope with regular childhood emotions and situations: homesickness, peer pressure and the urge to break every rule they've ever known. At the end of each episode, all 40 kids will gather at an old fashioned Town Hall meeting where they will debate the issues facing Bonanza City. They'll show wisdom beyond their years and the unflinching candor that only kids can exhibit. There are no eliminations on KID NATION — you only go home if you want to. And in every Town Hall meeting, kids may raise their hands and leave. Will they stick it out? In the end, will these kids prove to adults everywhere (and their own parents!) that they have the vision to build a better world than the pioneers who came before them? And just as importantly, will they come together as a cohesive unit, or will they abandon all responsibility and succumb to the childhood temptations that lead to round-the-clock chaos? KID NATION is produced by Emmy Award winner Tom Forman ("Extreme Makeover: Home Edition") for Tom Forman Prods. and Good TV, Inc.
The new summer reality series is:
POWER OF 10, hosted by award-winning comedian Drew Carey ("The Drew Carey Show"), is a high-stakes game that challenges contestants to guess the behaviors, opinions and lifestyle choices of the American public for the chance to win $10 million. POWER OF 10 polls thousands of people across the U.S. asking them, well, just about everything — from "What percentage of married Americans said they were virgins the day they got married?" to "What percentage of American's believe they are smarter than the president?" Each week, contestants must decide if they have their finger on the pulse of the American majority and can accurately predict the results of these nationwide surveys. With the first question worth $1,000 and only five questions to answer, each one increasing 10 times in value, contestants participate in a potentially lucrative game where they just might walk away with $10 million. The higher they are on the money ladder, the closer they must be to the actual statistic. The studio audience and a friend can help them, but the final answer is theirs. Michael Davies ("Who Wants to be a Millionaire") is executive producer for Embassy Row in association with Sony Pictures Television.
The new midseason series is:
SWINGTOWN, from the director of "Big Love" and "Rome," peeks into the shag-carpeted suburban homes of the 1970s to find couples reveling in the sexual and social revolution that introduced open marriages, women's liberation and challenged many conventional wisdoms. During this heady era of provocative change, Susan (Molly Parker, "Deadwood") and Bruce Miller (Jack Davenport, "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest") move their family to an affluent Chicago suburb in search of a different sense of community, and they look forward to barbecues and get-togethers with their new neighbors, as well as a change of pace for their teenage daughter and pre-teen son. Enter Tom (Grant Show, "Melrose Place") and Trina (Lana Parrilla, "24") Decker, a striking, outgoing couple on the hunt who redefine the term "neighborhood watch." After a mind-blowing evening with them, Susan and Bruce realize that couples in this town share much more than recipes, local gossip and a view of Lake Michigan, and are worlds apart from their former conservative neighbors, Janet (Miriam Shor, "Big Day") and Roger (Josh Hopkins, "Brothers & Sisters") Thompson. Susan's loyal friend Janet is appalled by what she witnesses in this new neighborhood, while Roger, though dutiful to his wife, may be more intrigued than she knows. In a changing social climate — defined by its music, fashion and style — everyone in SWINGTOWN is confronted with personal choices, experimentation and shifting attitudes. Shanna Collins ("Wildfire"), Aaron Howles and Brittany Robertson ("Freddie") also star. Mike Kelley ("The O.C.") and director Alan Poul ("Six Feet Under") are executive producers for CBS Paramount Network Television.
Ian Ziering latest to go from Dancing With the Stars
Ian Ziering and his partner, two-time champion Cherly Burke, were sent home Tuesday from Dancing With the Stars.
Ziering made it to the semi-finals and received his first set of 10s during Monday’s competition, but it wasn’t enough to keep him dancing.
I’m sad to see him go, but I think it was time. On a side note, Beverly Hills 90210 fans should have recognized "Kelly" and "Nat" in the crowd cheering Ian on Monday night.
The best three dancers remain. Here’s my fearless prediction: I think it’s going to come down to Joey and Apolo. Both of their dances wowed the audience this week.
Joey’s jive was so good I watched it three times. It was so entertaining that Bruno said Joey had “more tricks than Houdini.” Joey is such an entertainer that I love to watch him. But, he seems so cocky at times that I think I’m rooting for Apolo to win this thing.
As for Apolo’s cha-cha, it was the crowd-pleaser of the night. The judges couldn’t even begin scoring because the crowd was cheering so long and loud. But, Len called the routine “raunchy,” with too much grinding and not enough cha-cha. Carrie Ann and Bruno disagreed, though. Carrie Ann said it was the “sexiest cha-cha she’d ever seen” and scored them a 10. Bruno did the same.
So, now three remain. Laila is a good dancer, but her partner’s attitude doesn’t win them any points with viewers. He seems like a jerk to her at times and no one wants a jerk to win this thing.
If the show hosts are correct, all the dancers return next week. Don’t miss it.
American Idol: Finally a competition!
by guest bloggers Becky and Bethany
It took us to semi-finals to actually get to a competition worth watching.
This week on Idol, the final three had to sing three songs: judges’ pick, producers’ pick and their own.
Jordin opened the show with “Wishing on a Star” picked for her by Simon. As usual she sang beautifully, but she lacks stage presence. She just stands there and sings. Come on Jordin, we would like to see you walk across the stage. Maybe she can’t sing and walk at the same time?
Next, the producers chose “She Works Hard for the Money”. We thought that she would really shine with this choice. But again, it was flat. Then, surprisingly Jordin picked “I who Have Nothing”. The performance left us with nothing but BLAH.
The dark horse aka Blake, made a come back. His version of “Roxanne”, “This Love” and “When I Get You Alone” were great. He gave the viewers a reason to pick up the phone and vote. We think that it’s enough to get him to the final.
Melinda was the resident professional. She was given the task of singing a Whitney Houston ballad, a feat that is normally condemned by the judges. However, Randy chose “I Believe in You and Me” for her to sing.
She was great! Mark it down, the first AI contestant to sing a Whitney song and live to tell about it.
Melinda also took on “Nutbush City Limits” and “I’m a Woman”. They both let her personality show through. Melinda needed to connect with the audience and show them she has a fun side, and she did it.
So AI fans, we are changing our tune and predicting that Jordin will be sent home, and it will be a gender war again with Blake and Melinda in the final.
Until tomorrow….
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Men in Trees moves to Fridays
Photo: Courtesy of ABC, Anne Heche stars in Men in Trees
You’re going to have plenty of reasons to stay home on Friday nights this fall. ABC has moved the quirky dramedy Men in Trees to Fridays at 8 p.m.
If that’s not enough to entice you to watch TV on Friday night, then how about NBC’s combo of Las Vegas at 9 p.m. followed by the refreshing drama Friday Night Lights at 10 p.m.
CBS, FOX and the CW have not yet released their fall schedules yet, so it’s not known what they have planned for Fridays. I hope they don’t schedule anything Tube Talk worthy though. My TiVo can only take so much.
Lost probably headed for time change
Those of you reading web sites and freaking out that Lost isn’t on the fall schedule, I have two words for you: CALM DOWN!
Lost is returning next season, just not in the fall. It will be back mid-season.
I know. That’s a long time to go without our Jack/Sawyer fix, but the network is giving us 16 uninterrupted episodes to make up for the late start.
As for when Lost will air, ABC entertainment president Stehpen McPherson told reporters at the media upfront presentation this week that Lost most likely won’t return to its 10 p.m. timeslot.
“I’d like to get in there at an earlier hour,” McPherson said. “It’s better as a 9 or 8’o’clock show.”
I agree with McPherson. I prefer Lost at 9 p.m. By 10 p.m., I’m too tired to apply the mental acuity required to watch this show. And let’s face it, trying to understand polar bears in the tropics, statues with missing toes and smoke monsters is no easy feat.
ABC reveals fall schedule: Includes Grey’s Spinoff and October Road
ABC has plenty of new shows in store for the fall, despite its already solid lineup. Admittedly, I spend most of my TV hours watching ABC shows, and it looks like that isn’t going to change this season.
Seven new dramas, four new comedies and one alternative series have been added to the schedule, along with many returning shows.
Returning are: October Road, Notes From the Underbelly, Brothers & Sisters, Men in Trees, Ugly Betty, Grey’s Anatomy, Lost, Desperate Housewives, Boston Legal, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Dancing With the Stars, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, The Bachelor, Supernanny, America’s Funniest Home Videos, and Wife Swap.
Here’s a look at the fall schedule, along with a detailed description of the new shows at the end. New shows are listed in bold. Enjoy, and make room on your TiVo!
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
Cashmere Mafia, Notes from the Underbelly and October Road will premiere after Dancing With the Stars and The Bachelor conclude their fall seasons. Lost will premiere midseason.
DRAMAS
"Big Shots"
This is the story of four friends at the top of their game...until the women in their lives enter the room. Lines between boardroom and bedroom blur when these competitive but dysfunctional CEOs take refuge in their friendship, discussing business, confiding secrets, seeking advice and supporting each other through life's surprising twists and turns. Stars Michael Vartan, Dylan McDermott and Joshua Malina.
"Cashmere Mafia"
Four ambitious and sexy women, who've been best friends since business school, try to balance their glamorous and demanding careers with their complex personal lives in the city that never sleeps. They've created their own "boys club" to protect each other and discuss their ups and downs as they try to have it all. What good is it to break the glass ceiling without girlfriends to share in your success? Stars Lucy Liu and Frances O’Connor.
"Dirty Sexy Money"
Some people say money is the root of all evil. They may be right. Nick George's whole life has been lived in the shadow of the Darling family, but as an adult he's leading the perfect life as an idealistic lawyer, until his father's suspicious death. The absurdly wealthy Darlings of New York have asked him to take over his father's job as their personal lawyer, but the money that will allow him the freedom to be an altruistic do-gooder is only part of the picture. That same money pulls him into the dubious doings of the Darling clan. Power, privilege and family money are a volatile cocktail. Stars Peter Krause, Donald Sutherland and William Baldwin
"Eli Stone"
Many lawyers consider themselves prophets, but Eli Stone may be the real deal. Eli has built a successful career at a top law firm in San Francisco representing only the biggest and richest corporations that make a habit of screwing over the little guy. But after experiencing a series of odd hallucinations, Eli seeks to find a deeper meaning to life while trying not to lose his job and destroy his relationship with the bosses' daughter. When Eli discovers an aneurysm in his brain, he wonders if his condition is truly medical or if perhaps he now has a higher calling. Stars Victor Garber, Jonny Lee Miller and Natasha Henstridge.
"Private Practice"
From Shonda Rhimes, the Golden Globe-winning creator of "Grey's Anatomy," comes a story about new beginnings and old friends. Addison Forbes Montgomery is a renowned neonatal surgeon, respected by her friends and colleagues at Seattle Grace Hospital. Deciding she can no longer healthily co-exist with her ex-husband, McDreamy, and her ex-lover, McSteamy, Addison heads to Los Angeles for sunnier weather and happier possibilities. Reunited with her once-married, newly divorced medical school friends, Naomi and Sam, Addison joins their chic private practice. Featuring an all-star cast including Kate Walsh, Amy Brenneman, Tim Daly and Taye Diggs, "Private Practice" tells the story of a woman unafraid of change and willing to begin a new life.
"Pushing Daisies"
From Bryan Fuller ("Heroes") and Barry Sonnenfeld ("Men in Black") comes an unprecedented blend of romance, crime procedural and high-concept fantasy in a forensic fairytale about a young man with a very special gift. Once upon a time, a mild-mannered boy named Ned realized he could touch dead things and bring them back to life. Grown-up Ned puts his ability to good use, not only touching dead fruit and making it ripe with everlasting flavor, but working with an investigator to crack murder cases by asking the deceased to name their killers. But the tale gets complicated, as all tales do, when Ned brings his childhood sweetheart, Chuck, back from the dead and keeps her alive. Chuck encourages him to use his power to help others, instead of merely solving mysteries and collecting the rewards. Life would be perfect for Ned and Chuck, except for one cruel twist: If he ever touches her again, she'll go back to being dead, this time for good. Stars Lee Pace, Chi McBride, Swoosie Kurtz and Kristin Chenoweth.
"Women's Murder Club"
Based on James Patterson's bestselling novels, The Women's Murder Club, four working women in San Francisco - a detective, a district attorney, a medical examiner and a reporter - use their expertise and unique talents to solve murder cases. Each woman is successful in her own field, but because of their unique friendship, they realize that pooling their resources during investigations leads to undiscovered clues and answers in both work and their personal lives. Stars Paula Newsome, Tyrees Allen and Angie Harmon.
COMEDIES
"Carpoolers"
Less about saving the environment than male bonding, four guys from very different backgrounds relish their daily commute as they commiserate about their lives, jobs and families in the carpool lane. There's Laird, the recently divorced playboy; Aubrey, the timid homemaker and breadwinner; the conservative and traditional Gracen; and eager newlywed Dougie. Together, between the pressures of home and work, these men find time to be themselves while driving to and from the office. Stars Fred Goss, Faith Ford and Jerry O’Connell.
"Cavemen"
Cavemen is a unique buddy comedy that offers a clever twist on stereotypes and turns race relations on their head. Inspired by the popular Geico Insurance commercials, the series looks at life through the eyes of the ultimate outsiders - three modern cavemen - as they struggle to find their place in the world. Joel, his cynical best friend, Nick, and easy-going little brother, Jamie, are contemporary cavemen who live in the suburban south and simply want to be treated like ordinary thirty-something guys. Despite their attempts at assimilation, Nick doesn't believe mainstream society will ever completely accept them, Jamie seems to take it all in stride and Joel straddles the middle, torn between his friends, his more traditional values and his loving fiance. Stars Bill English, Nick Kroll and Dash Mihok.
"Miss/Guided"
Having navigated the awkward and sometimes traumatic world of high school, Rebecca Freely returns to her alma mater as a guidance counselor, free of the insecurities and orthodontia of her school days. Amidst student behavioral problems and the persistent romantic advances of the male nurse, Gary, Rebecca is certain of one thing - she is interested in the hot auto-shop-turned-Spanish-teacher, Tim. However, much as in high school days of unexpected teenage angst, Lisa, a former cheerleader and nemesis of Rebecca's, returns as the new English teacher determined to make Rebecca relive her unpopular past, setting sights on Tim as well. Stars Brooke Burns, Judy Greer and Kristoffer Polaha.
"Sam I Am"
When a terrible accident leaves Samantha "Sam" Newly in a coma for eight days, she wakes up with no recollection of any past experiences, memories or events. Faced with amnesia, Sam must start over. To her dismay she discovers that she wasn't a particularly honest, good-hearted or loving person. In fact she was self-involved, narcissistic and devoid of real relationships - essentially a bitch. Sam must now struggle with her desire to be good and her temptation to be...not so good. Finding the line between good and evil is never easy. Stars Christina Applegate, Jennifer Esposito and Jean Smart.
ALTERNATIVE SERIES
"Oprah's Big Give"
The first primetime series from Harpo Productions centers on the competition, drama and emotion as millions of dollars are given away to make a difference in people's lives across the country. Each week contestants will face a "big twist" that will test their nerve, drive, ingenuity and passion. Big name stars will turn up throughout the series to join the "Oprah's Big Give" tour. During the eight episodes filmed in various U.S. cities, the field will be narrowed. The stakes will get higher and higher, with one person ultimately being chosen as The Biggest Giver. "Oprah's Big Give" is created and produced by Harpo Productions in conjunction with Profiles Television Productions, LLC. Oprah Winfrey, Ellen Rakieten, Harriet Seitler, Jonathan Sinclair, Bertram van Munster and Elise Doganieri are executive producers.
Monday, May 14, 2007
NBC announces fall schedule: Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip not on the list
A lottery-winning mustache man, a bionic woman, several doctors, a team of football players, and plenty of cops will be on your TV this fall, courtesy of NBC.
NBC announced its fall schedule today during the upfront presentation to advertisers and media in New York City.
Old favorites, such as My Name is Earl, The Office, Scrubs, and Friday Night Lights are slated to return. Surprisingly, so are Medium, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and the geriatric ER.
The bad news: Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip isn’t on the schedule, according to the press release I received from NBC. Sorry, folks. I liked it, too.
The good news: The Office will air more episodes than series usually do, with a whopping order for 30 shows, including five hour-long episodes. (Feel free to pause a moment to do the happy dance.) My Name is Earl received an order for a longer season, too, with 25 episodes.
Heroes will see plenty of action, also, with an expanded 30 episodes, that includes a combination of Heroes and Heroes: Origins, an innovative new spin-off that each week will introduce a new character, one of whom will be chosen by viewers through the Heroes website on NBC.com to become a cast regular the following season.
The network has only one new comedy on the new schedule, but five new dramas.
I’m pleased that NBC had the sense to keep Scrubs and Earl instead of trying out something new. As for the five new dramas, I’m most excited about Lipstick Jungle. It’s from the author Candace Bushnell (Sex and the City.)
Here’s the complete fall schedule, according to the NBC press release, as well as a synopsis of the network’s new shows so you’ll know what looks interesting to you. (New shows are in bold.)
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
10-11 pm LIFE —A complex police detective (Damian Lewis, Band of Brothers) is given a second chance on the force, after serving years in prison for a crime he didn't commit.
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SUNDAY (Fall 2007)
Here are some other tidbits from NBC:
Jerry Seinfeld, star of the classic NBC mega-hit Seinfeld, returns to the network to create and star in 20 unique live-action comedy "minisodes" inspired by his experiences creating the upcoming DreamWorks animated feature film Bee Movie, in theaters November 2. The "minisodes" will run on NBC's primetime schedule this Fall, as well as on NBC.com, on designated days before and after the release of the film.
The new NBC series Bionic Woman and Life will be re-run on SCI FI Channel and USA Network, respectively, shortly after their original telecasts on NBC.
Friday Night Lights and Scrubs renewed
Thank you, NBC! Woo HOO!!! Friday Night Lights and Scrubs will both be back next season, according to the network.
Friday Night Lights is moving to Friday nights at 10 p.m. ET.
Perhaps the Friday schedule change will help remind people to watch this brilliant show, because, really, what’s a fall night without a little Friday night football?
As for Scrubs, it will have a shortened season, with only 18 episodes. 
I would have preferred a full 22-episode season, but hey, it’s better than cancellation.
We have reason to celebrate today, TV fans. Now, let’s hear a little cheering out there.
American Idol: So Long Lakisha!
Editor’s note: To all you AI addicts, sorry for the delay in posting this. But, my laptop died on me while on vacation in Vegas. Things are back up and running today, so those of you anxiously waiting for Becky and Bethany’s take on AI, here it is.
by guest bloggers Becky and Bethany
William Shakespeare said "brevity is the soul of wit". So, we are going to follow that advice and keep it short and sweet. Lakisha was sent home. So, our final three are Blake, Melinda, and Jordin, which we predicted.
Pink's performance was OK, but the wardrobe choice was horrible. Did she take a prison jump suit and turn it into a mini-dress? And she needs to do something with her hair. That's all there is to it.
The finalists’ tribute to Barry Gibb was terrible. We will steal Randy's line and just say that it was "pitchy."And speaking of Barry, poor fellow. The man tried, and he actually wasn't all that bad. Maybe he can't sing upbeat disco songs anymore. We know that he has written/sung more songs than just the disco genre, but we were looking forward to him breaking out the polyester! He was really looking his age, which is not a bad thing, but this is American Idol and the teenyboppers out there don't want to see their grandpa on stage.
Other than those tidbits, there is really not much to say, since the show was mostly filler and 10 minutes of actual content. We hope that the next two weeks bring more to the table.
We hate to admit it, but Idol has not held our attention this year. Hopefully, the semi-finals will thrill us and bring us back into the fold.
Until next week.
Tube Talk Girl checks in from Vegas
Hey Tubers! Sorry it’s been all quiet here at Tube Talk for the last few days, but I have a good excuse. I’m in Las Vegas, hanging out with Elvis impersonators, looking for the Montecito and trying to avoid the weird guys on the street who keep wanting to give me advertising cards with naked women on them.
Anyway, my intention was to blog once a day when I hit town, so I could keep in touch. Fate had a different plan.
On day one, my laptop went down and hasn’t recovered. I can’t even get a flicker from the old power light. Instead of paying the Geek Squad to fix old faithful, I just decided to take a few days off, and instead use the Mirage business center computer to blog breaking news. Then, I discovered the hourly fee.
There’s way too much to do here to spend all day on a computer anyway, so cut me some slack. The Mirage pool and giant frozen pina colada take priority.
As for all your e-mails wondering where I am, thank you! I had no idea I was so loved. I’m trying to bum a pal’s computer to give you updates on breaking news, and I’ll return to regular scheduled blogging within the next day.
Until then, cheers!
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Disco Fever on American Idol
by guest bloggers Becky and Bethany
Last night was Disco night on American Idol, and the guest mentor was Barry Gibb from the Bee Gees. Poor Barry, we actually felt sorry for him. Last night’s show was a total disappointment.
The season finale is just a couple weeks away, and you would think that the contestants would have upped their game last night. They didn’t.
Instead of gripping the edges of our couches or clutching our throw pillows, in eager anticipation of what each finalist would belt out, we were left thinking, “That’s it?” We’ve wasted the last three months watching Idol for this? The contestants gave mediocre performances, on a night when they should have knocked everyone’s socks off.
Come on people! Last night’s show wasn’t even worth wasting our time writing about it. Tonight, in our opinion, all four are vulnerable. Melinda was really the only one who didn’t screw up completely, so she will probably stay. We say “probably” because you never know. Remember Chris Daughtry?
Let’s hope that Barry’s performance tonight at least makes us want to get up and do the hustle, instead of feeling like we have completely wasted our time watching the show. And yes we know what the hustle is…
Dancing With the Stars: Bye-Bye Billy Ray
Billy Ray and his “achy breaky butt” were sent home Tuesday from Dancing With the Stars.
It wasn’t a shock for anyone who watched his dances this week. What was shocking was Joey Fatone in the bottom two. Hello? I didn’t see that coming. He scored well with the judges, but apparently not with the public.
This week’s competition was filled with controversy. The judges were harsh on the contestants and each other. After Apolo and his partner did a crowd-pleasing number, Len and Bruno erupted into an argument. “You’re losing your marbles,” Bruno told Len, after his less-than-flattering critique of the dance. “Shut up!” Let fired back. Even host Tom Bergeron headed to the judges' table to take a joking jab at Len after his tough words.
It wasn’t just Apolo who got a tongue-lashing. Carrie Ann called out Ian for not being “authentic” when he danced, whatever that means. And Bruno called Billy Ray’s dance “crap,” which didn’t sit well with Billy Ray who was visibly upset by the remark.
Laila brought the crowd to tears when she danced for her father Muhammed Ali, who was in the audience. But her routines were too frilly for Len. He instructed her to put more dancing and less theatrics in the routines.
With Billy Ray gone, the best dancers are left. But, with last night’s results, I’m worried that the popularity contest part of the show will overtake the raw talent and the best dancers may be sent home. I never thought Joey would be in the bottom two, but he was.
The lesson here: Never underestimate the power of the Beverly Hills 90210 fans. Go Ian!
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
My Name is Earl: Season finale laughs and shockers
Few shows make me laugh out loud anymore. And when they do, I let you know about it.
Don’t miss the season finale of My Name is Earl on Thursday, if you want a good old-fashioned belly laugh.
I watched the season finale already and counted the number of times I laughed out loud. For the record, it was 10, and that didn’t include the perma-grin planted on my face throughout the entire show.
I’m not sure who makes me giggle more: Joy, and her politically incorrect, brass, tell-it-like-it-is attitude, or Crabman, whose hair height acts as a mood meter for what’s going on in his life.
In the season ender, Joy is on trial for stealing a truck, and Earl is trying desperately to keep her out of prison. Oscar winner Marlee Matlin reprises her role as Joy’s deaf lawyer and brings along her hilarious translator.
Will Joy go to the big house and be karma’s bitch? Or will Earl concoct a plan to save her?
Sorry, I can’t tell you. NBC would dish out its own karma to me if I spoiled the surprise ending for you.
I can tell you this. Don’t miss Earl on Thursday at 8 p.m. on NBC.
Lost to end in 2010
Lost fans, we finally have an answer to one question we’ve all asked: When will the show end?
Lost will wrap in 2010, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Although the show will run for the next three years, the seasons will be shortened, airing only 16 episodes each year. The good news is that the shows will air uninterrupted, meaning no breaks between episodes. Anyone who has ever tried to follow the complicated Lost plots, knows that it’s easier to get Sawyer to stop using nicknames than to remember intricate plot details while the show is on hiatus for several months.
Lost executive producers/showrunners Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse have signed on to stay for the remainder of the series' run. The two have planned the ending of the series already, they told The Hollywood Reporter.
"What we didn't know was how long we had to play the story out," Cuse said in the interview. "By defining the endpoint we can now really map out the rest of the series in confidence."
Let’s hope that mapping out strategy includes some answers about the big-toed statue, the smoke monster, and why Jack can’t seem to get any love.
Monday, May 07, 2007
How I Met Your Mother season-ending shockers
Photos courtesy of CBS, please do not copy
In the season finale of How I Met Your Mother, we finally get the answer as to whether Robin becomes Ted’s wife and the future “mother” of his children.
Do Lily and Marshall get hitched? Well, I can’t tell you that. I can tell you that Lily fits in her dress, Marshall has some issues of his own, and Barney, as usual, is in search of a Scotch and soda.
Something Borrowed airs tonight at 8 p.m. on CBS and the finale, Something Blue, airs next Monday, May 14, at 8 p.m. on CBS.
Is it just me, or does Lily’s wedding dress look an awful lot like Lana Lang’s from Smallville? Both gals have fabulous taste in clothes and men.
Grey’s Anatomy spinoff, yay or nay?
by Jennifer Squires Biller
After watching the two-hour Grey’s Anatomy episode, destined to become a spinoff for Addison, I’m a little concerned.
Here’s why. The show seemed adolescent in many ways, beginning with the fart joke and Addison’s silly behavior in the elevator. Then, the ladies lined up to watch the cute surfer receptionist strut through the hallway shirtless on his way to the beach. It was like that Diet Coke commercial from years ago. I expected more from the sophisticated writing palette of the Grey’s Anatomy team.
The plus to the new show is the casting. Tim Daly and Taye Diggs were outstanding. And Daly and Kate Walsh have enough chemistry to set that ocean-side community on fire. The cast, on a whole, was solid, but the problem was, I just didn’t care about most of them and their problems. Naomi seemed cold, internet-trolling doctor seemed nutty, and the shrink didn’t pull me in either. Hence, I can’t even remember their names.
It all comes down to Addison. She has always seemed like an outsider at Grey’s Anatomy, so it makes sense that she would be destined for a different place. But, I don’t want her to go, if it means changing her character. And for those two hours last week, it seemed they had.
Addison isn’t a silly girl, yet she was acting like a juiced-up Ally McBeal. Addison is a tough, take-charge gal, who sometimes makes poor choices. Alex was a poor choice, in my opinion. I hate that she went there. She was better than that. The Addison I first met would never have messed around with an intern, especially with McSteamy in the mix and McDreamy’s relationship hitting troubled waters.
I hate for Addison to leave Seattle, as I think she has plenty of story to tell there with Mark, Derek, Miranda and the gang. But, it seems she will be moving on when ABC picks up this new show. And yes, I will follow her. I love her that much.
First impressions of TV shows are sometimes wrong, so I’m not saying I won’t watch. I didn’t love Friday Night Lights or The Office pilots, but those two shows are now must-see-TV for me. It’s possible that Addison and the new Private Practice doctors will hook me yet.
What are your thoughts on the new Grey’s spinoff? Did you love it or hate it?
Friday, May 04, 2007
The “Lost” island, paradise or purgatory?
by Jennifer Squires Biller
They’re all dead.
That’s the scuttlebutt making its way around the Lost island this week.
Sawyer, Jack, Kate and the rest of the “survivors” didn’t actually survive anything, according to the two newest Lost characters, parachute girl and Locke’s daddy. They claim that flight 815 was found at the bottom of the ocean floor near Bali, bodies inside.
Last week, when parachute girl told Hurley this unsettling news, it didn’t cause me much concern. I chalked it up to more lies i.e. if we were in elementary school, her pants would have been on fire. (“Liar. Liar.”)
But this week, when Locke’s daddy told the same story, I had a Depends moment.
Could it be that everyone did die, and that they’re killing time in purgatory, suffering their penance and waiting for their shot at redemption before moving on? The real “Sawyer” implied as much, when he said he was in a car accident and woke up on the island. And then he threw out that line that the island was a little hot for Heaven.
I floated the purgatory idea back in season one, due to the numerous Biblical/spiritual/philosophical references. But, the show creators shot it down. Could they have changed their minds?
We’ve been screaming for answers for two years for some explanation about the “magical” island. Now that we have an answer, few believe it. Here’s why: It’s hard to buy dead people walking, talking, and getting busy in Sawyer’s tent. (Although, you have to admit the latter isn’t a bad way to spend the after life.)
If they are in purgatory, it truly would be a unique writing concept never seen before on television. It would certainly explain why we saw Jack’s dad in season one walking through the jungle, despite the fact that Jack had picked up his dead body in Australia, and why crippled Locke can suddenly walk.
The show has to come to an end at some point, and honestly, it doesn’t seem like most of the folks on the plane have much of a life to go back to. So, perhaps, purgatory is the best solution.
Hey, as long as the show doesn’t end with someone shaking a glass snow globe, I’m open to anything.
