Glued to the TV

A soap lover's quest: 'Santa Barbara' on DVD

2010-08-01T21:52:00.000-07:00

"Santa Barbara," the best soap opera ever, premiered July 30, 1984.

26 years ago.

It went off the air on January 15, 1993.

17.5 years ago.

It's time for all 8.5 years of the best soap ever to be put on DVD.

I would buy it. And watch it.

Then watch it some more.

Who's with me?

Little secret about me: One of our honeymoon destinations was chosen because it was used on "Santa Barbara."

Hello Twelve, Hello Thirteen ...

2010-04-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

My three favorite things about "Glee" last night:

"Just come out so we can talk. Or sing about it."
"Sing-off. The parking lot. 5 p.m. Be there." (Every musical-theater-loving girl's dream: Two hetero men having a sing-off for her heart.)
They were making out to the "Chorus Line" soundtrack. I almost peed myself laughing so hard.

Sure, there were 100 more awesome/hilarious/tender moments I loved. But these are the three that have stuck with me overnight.

Have your cake and watch it, too

2009-05-27T20:53:00.001-07:00

TLC's new show "Cake Boss" is a total ripoff of Food Network's "Ace of Cakes":

Take one chef with plenty of personality who creates creative, unusual and/or amazing cakes. Add a dash of drama and a handful of interesting, funny and/or temperamental supporting characters. Mix together. Voila! You have a delicious bakery show.

While I think Buddy, the boss on "Cake Boss," creates gorgeous cakes and I love that his bakery is in New Jersey, I find Duff and his Charm City Cakes crew far more entertaining and engaging.

I like that Duff's team gets along and has fun; Buddy's crew, however, has a lot of infighting (it could be because much of his staff is family) and that makes for some uncomfortable viewing.

I also prefer "Ace of Cakes" because, well, it's the original. Duplicates are rarely as good as the original.

And I can't be mad at "Cake Boss": Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

Guess what?!?!?

2009-05-09T15:32:00.000-07:00

I got DVR today.

Finally.

Noreen says it will change my life.

So flippin' excited.

Ben Linus reads a nursery rhyme

2009-05-04T17:08:00.001-07:00

Video Recaps | Full Episodes | Webisodes

What I'm watching ...

2009-05-04T02:47:00.000-07:00

Lots of things going on in TV land these days. Here are my thoughts before hitting the hay at waaaaayyyy too late an hour.

* I'm glad "In Plain Sight" is back. I forgot how much I enjoy this show. It's serious. It's funny. There's always a mystery to solve. I love the dynamics between the characters. Mary McCormack is a great actress, playing her character, Mary, as strong, sincere and deeply troubled. She's definitely a good anchor for the show. And Fred Weller, who plays Mary's Witness Protection colleague Marshall, has incredible timing and delivery. "In Plain Sight" airs at 10 p.m. Sundays on USA.

* I am a lot behind on watching "The Soup." I have four episodes downloaded to my iTunes account. I need my fix ASAP.

* I was so upset at myself when I realized on Friday night that I'd missed "My Boys" on Tuesday. (We were having family dinner with a priest friend.) "My Boys" is one of my true faves. While Jordana Spiro's PJ is a likeable character, it's her guy friends who make the show. You believe that these five very different men could really be friends. And Reid Scott is smokin'. And Jim Gaffigan is my all-time favorite stand-up comedian, so you can't go wrong there. I'm glad I can watch any episode I miss on Comcast On Demand and TBS.com for free. (It also illustrates that I still need DVR.) "My Boys" airs at 10:30 p.m. Tuesdays on TBS.

* My friend Shelley posted a gem of a video from Jimmy Fallon's show. This is a must-see for "Lost" fans. Michael Emerson (aka Benjamin Linus) is a genius.

* Lastly, I have proven my word-nerdery with my love of two game shows on GSN: "Lingo" and "Chain Reaction." Perhaps some family members mocked me because of my love of these shows. But I'm addicted. "Lingo" mixes two of my favorite things: scrambled words and bingo. I'm in heaven. There are two irritating things about "Lingo," though:

1. New episodes are not being made.

2. Host Chuck Woolery still says, "We'll be back in two and two" before going to commercial. That's so ... 1980s "Love Connection."

Noreen and Shelley, this one's for you ...

2009-03-30T15:29:00.000-07:00

Jimmy Fallon has launched an effort to reunite the cast of "Saved by the Bell" on his show. He has Mr. Belding on board, now he just needs Zack, Slater, Kelly, Jessie and the gang to sign on.

If you can believe it, it's been 20 years since "Saved by the Bell" began. Whoa.

Watch the clip of Jimmy and Mr. Belding here. While there, you can also sign the petition to encourage the cast to reunite.

Why do I watch this garbage?

2009-03-02T22:31:00.001-08:00

Jason Mesnick.

Worst. Bachelor. Ever.

Oh, I know ... He's allowed to follow his heart and regret his decision.

I get it.

But, good Lord, we don't need an indecisive guy. We don't need a Bachelor who really has no luck in love: He had a rough divorce, then he got dumped by DeAnna, then he falls for Melissa and proposes but then the chemistry's not there and he's still in love with Molly, the gal he dumped ...

ABC needs its next Bachelor to be strong and decisive, no sob stories, no guy who has a long loved-and-lost history.

Enough.

P.S. Yes, Jason reminds me of a guy I dated in high school. It's his looks, his receding hairline, the New Age-y/self-help lines he spews, the wanting to date multiple women, etc. That might be part of why I dislike him now. Yeah.

Observations of the week ... so far

2009-02-18T16:19:00.000-08:00

Just a few things ...

* Nothing has made my husband and I laugh as hard as we did last night when we finally saw the Denny's Nannerpuss ad. Have you seen this? We nearly died laughing.

* So when your new baby (who we have now nicknamed Nannerpuss) falls asleep in your arms when you're sitting in front of the TV, you tend to channel surf. What I've enjoyed today: "Family Feud" on GSN and "The Soup" on E! I don't get to watch "The Soup" as often as I'd like. I felt bad for my sleeping baby because I kept laughing out loud. I love Joel McHale (a Seattle native, by the way).

* I haven't been watching "The Bachelor" much this season. Our local boy bachelor Jason Mesnick kind of gives me the willies. He reminds me in looks and mannerisms of a guy I dated in high school.

* Hurley from "Lost" keeps a blog! Well, not Hurley but Jorge Garcia, the actor who plays Hurley. It's fairly entertaining. Not really "Lost" related. Just Garcia's observations about life and TV and his dog.

Happy TV viewing!

Scrubbing in on "ER" ...

2009-01-23T12:12:00.000-08:00

This is what made me smile today:

It's George!

Resolutions for 2009

2009-01-02T10:39:00.001-08:00

New Year's resolutions:

Post more on this blog.
Start watching "Mad Men." That Jon Hamm is a hottie.

Like sands through the hourglass ...

2008-11-19T13:35:00.000-08:00

So, wise and wonderful sister Noreen -- my best TV-watching partner for most of my life -- just e-mailed me a link about an old favorite show of ours, "Days of Our Lives."

It appears that two of the show's longtime stars, Deidre Hall and Drake Hogestyn, are leaving the show because, well, "Days" can't afford to pay them anymore. (In order to "save" the show and reduce the costs of producing it, the producers are slimming down the cast and the salaries.)

It's the end of an era.

I can't say I care much, because I haven't watch "Days" regularly in many, many years. (And I loathe Hogestyn. He is perhaps my least favorite soap opera actor of all time.) I'd rather know that "Days" is living on than to think paying Hogestyn's bloated salary killed this venerable TV series.

I could wax nostalgic about my soap-opera-loving days. But I won't.

It's just interesting to me that a struggling show should would actually get rid of fan favorites at a time when it needs all the viewers it can get.

Maybe Diedre Hall can finally start work on an "Electra Woman and Dyna-Girl" reunion.

P.S. It's not the first time Hall and Hogestyn have left "Days." There is always room on soaps for actors/characters to return.

Canceled.

2008-11-17T12:02:00.000-08:00

"Lipstick Jungle."

"My Own Worst Enemy."

I watched neither. And, obviously, no one else did.

RIP.

Where the 'ER' flashback went wrong

2008-11-14T07:04:00.001-08:00

So, yes, I was very excited to see Anthony Edwards back on "ER" last night. I like him. I like his character. I like that "ER" took us back to a special time in the show's run.

There was a lot of hype about Edwards' return to the show.

What all the NBC promos and the many newspaper and magazine articles failed to mention is that Laura Innes (as Dr. Kerry Weaver) and Paul McCrane (as Dr. Robert Romano) were both in the episode too. And Romano still had both of his arms!

As I said, I love Anthony Edwards, but I thought McCrane and Innes deserved some props as well. Both are talented actors who played interesting, memorable characters on "ER." They have earned a little love.

A laugh from an unexpected place

2008-10-01T11:42:00.001-07:00

I don't watch "Lipstick Jungle."

But someone I know was watching last week's episode, and she wrote me about a line in the show that made her laugh.

She knew I would enjoy it too. It's a reference to one of my favorite Broadway musicals. My friend writes:

One of the gals is seeing the plastic surgeon for a weird procedure, and the nurse making the appointment on the phone says, "Do you know where it is?" and she replied, looking at the business card, "Park and Seventy-Third."

Anyone else chuckling with me? Anyone else get the reference?

Tina or Sarah? Can you even tell the difference?

2008-09-13T00:09:00.000-07:00

Well, this just made my night.

Looks like I might get my "Saturday Night Live"/Sarah Palin wish after all. (And I know it's not just my wish.) The news: Tina Fey might be on the "SNL" season premiere this weekend playing the veep candidate.

Sweet.

Go read the story. It will make comedy fans and politics watchers happy.

Our next round of dancing stars ...

2008-08-25T08:40:00.000-07:00

The new lineup for "Dancing With the Stars" was announced today. Here's a link to an Associated Press story, but I'll give you the rundown here:

Susan Lucci, soap opera diva
Ted McGinley, killer of TV sitcoms
Brooke Burns, model-actress
Toni Braxton, singer
Lance Bass, former boy-band singer
Cloris Leachman, star of "Young Frankenstein" and the final seasons of "The Facts of Life"
Kim Kardashian, icky reality TV star
Warren Sapp, former NFL star
Misty May-Treanor, beach volleyball gold medalist
Maurice Greene, Olympic track star
Rocco DiSpirito, chef/restaurateur
Cody Linley, "Hannah Montana" co-star
Jeffrey Ross, comedian

With McGinley in the cast, I have to wonder if this means "DWTS" has jumped the shark. (Ted is the patron saint of jumping the shark.)

Should be an interesting season. I think I'll be rooting for Rocco, Cloris or, of course, Ted. Jest though I may, I'd love to see the guy win at something for once.

Simmons says ...

2008-08-22T17:47:00.000-07:00

So, this afternoon I'm listening to my CD of the 1992 "Guys & Dolls" Broadway revival. I love that J.K. Simmons was in that show and that he sings. (But I really love Peter Gallagher's voice in that show. Swoon.)

But back on topic: Listening to the CD, I started thinking about J.K. Simmons, one of my fave actors, and how I am 99 percent sure he is the voice that says "Previously on 'Lost' ..." before every episode of my beloved ABC show.

Seriously, I'm just waiting for J.K. Simmons to show up on "Lost." There's a reason he does that voice-over. (It could be that the producers just really like his voice-over work.) Maybe he's our great and powerful Oz on "Lost." (Oh, man, I just typed that and realized a bizarro connection: Simmons starred on the HBO series "Oz." Ha! Chalk up another "Wizard of Oz"-related tie-in for "Lost.")

Anyway, I'm thinking Simmons holds the key -- or at least a character he'll play in the future will. As we "Lost" fans have learned, the producers'/creators'/writers' choices are very deliberate.

Now if we could just get to January when I can hear "Previously on 'Lost' " again ...

In the meantime, I'll be listening to "Guys & Dolls" some more.

Northwest guy becomes 'The Bachelor'

2008-08-20T16:35:00.001-07:00

Well, I'll be darned. Jason Mesnick of Kirkland will be the next "Bachelor" on ABC.

It's a first for this reality franchise to have a single dad in search of Miss Right.

Heh, the sappy, sincere single dad might win out in the end after losing DeAnna Pappas so brutally in the "Bachelorette" finale. Now it's Jason's turn to date 25 women at once -- in front of TV cameras and a national audience. And perhaps his toddler son, Ty.

Read more here and here.

And, of course, if you want to apply, go here.

'Lost' sneak peek

2008-08-12T10:58:00.001-07:00

The producers of "Lost" released this little sneak preview of the new season at Comic-Con. We have to wait till January to get the rest ... I cannot wait!

Can you feel it?

2008-08-11T16:44:00.000-07:00

I have Olympics fever.

Every day since Friday, my husband has said, "Hey, is there anything good on TV tonight?"

And every time I respond enthusiastically: "Yes! The Olympics!"

I'm not watching every minute of the coverage, but when I can, I do. Last night I flipped between NBC and CBUT (and "In Plain Sight" on USA). I can't believe how taken I am by these games.

My favorite events: Gymnastics, swimming, diving and track & field events. I was working out at the YMCA on Saturday and beach volleyball was on. That was awesome!

I love that I can watch all of these things happening a world away. I love watching victory.

How silly am I?

Donut Paradise

2008-06-25T23:29:00.001-07:00

I was scrolling through the on-screen cable guide tonight, frightened after tonight's "Criminal Minds" and wanting something soothing to erase it from my mind. (FYI: We chose "Criminal Minds" over "Baby Borrowers." It looked A LOT less scary.)

Anyway, scrolling through the menu, the word DONUT pops out at me on the Travel Channel. No, Anthony Bourdain wasn't eating insect-filled doughnuts, but the Travel Channel was airing "Donut Paradise."

From Crullers to Fritters and from Beignets to Bear Claws, the world of delicious deep fried dough is turned upside down in the search for Donut Paradise. Every glazed, jelly-filled, and chocolate covered creation is covered.

Needless to say, I clicked. I tuned in just as they moved from Richland, WA (Richland has good doughnuts? Who knew?) to Portland. So I learned all about Voodoo Donuts in Portland. They sound quirky and a little yucky. I don't like weird stuff coating or inside my doughnuts.

And from Portland, they traveled north to Seattle. To Top Pot Doughnuts.

Those looked delicious -- better than the Top Pot ones carried at Starbucks. Yum, yum, yum.

I want to drive to Seattle right now for doughnuts.

But I think I'll have to wait till morning instead and drop by my local doughnut palace, Pao's, on Sixth Avenue.

Mmmm, doughnuts. I want doughnuts right now.

Dog days of summer? I think not

2008-06-19T11:18:00.000-07:00

The question I'm asked most right now is "What are you watching now that the TV season is over?"

The answer: A lot. But not nearly as much as I watch during the "regular season."

Here's what's been on lately:

Seattle Mariners baseball (FSN)
"First 48" (A&E)
"Criminal Minds" (CBS)
"Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" (Food Network)
"My Boys" (TBS)
"The Price is Right Million Dollar Spectacular" (CBS)
"In Plain Sight" (USA)
"Ace of Cakes" (Food Network)
"Million Dollar Password" (CBS)
"The Bachelorette" (ABC)
"Jeopardy!" (ABC)

What I am looking forward to on July 14 (aka my birthday): "The Closer."

What ever happened to ...

2008-06-10T11:49:00.001-07:00

… Craig Kilborn?

Where is Craig Kilborn?

That's my question of the day.

He had it all -- from "SportsCenter" to "The Daily Show" and then "Late Late Show" -- and now he's vanished.

There's no place like 'Lost'

2008-05-29T23:37:00.000-07:00

Some quick "Lost" lowdown:

Did you watch the commercials? Did you see the one for Octagon Global Recruiting? That was a Dharma ad. The site shown in the ad's a real one. Find it here.

Jeremy Bentham? Not an anagram. He's a real dude. He's a 19th-century philsopher, influenced by a great 17th-century philosopher -- John Locke.

The man in Orientation Video No. 6, a man we first met as Dr. Marvin Candle, called himself Dr. Edgar Halliwax in this film. When Ben put on the coat so he'd be warm on his new adventure, the coat was embroidered with the name Halliwax.

What happened to the people on the boat that Daniel was ferrying? We saw them react when the sound and light washed over the ocean, so we know they didn't make it to the freighter. And they weren't on the island. So where are they? Where are Daniel, Rose, Bernard and the other survivors?

Is Sun wanting to work with Widmore ... or wanting to destroy him? (The final freighter scene was a downer. One of the saddest "Lost" moments ever. Where was that island/boat time lapse when we needed it?)

Did you see the coffin thing coming? That one surprised me.

We've got some mysteries to figure out about our red-haired friend Charlotte ...

The scene with the copter crash survivors on the life raft hollering at the boat in the distance ... Did that remind anyone of anything? I was waiting for Mr. Friendly/Zeke/Tom to reappear and say, "We're gonna need to take the boy."

Speaking of the boy, it was nice to see him again. He knows things, you know.

Liked the shoutout to Mr. Eko.

Two books/movies came to mind tonight watching parts of "There's No Place Like Home." What's funny: Neither was "The Wizard of Oz." The Ben and Locke scenes reminded me of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe." (Actually, I keep expecting greater Narnia connections, particularly because Charlotte's name is Charlotte Staples Lewis, and the writer of the Narnia stories is C.S. Lewis, or Clive Staples Lewis.)

And, finally, Penny. Oh, Penny. At least someone on this show gets a happy ending. Cheers, Desmond. The "See you in another life, brother" exchange with Jack and Des was a highlight (one of MANY) of tonight's episode.

Thoughts? Musings? I might have more tomorrow.

Might not.

Can't believe we have to wait till January for more "Lost."

Sheesh.

What happens to Mike Delfino?

2008-05-19T14:24:00.001-07:00

Where is Mike Delfino?

That's my question having watched the season finale of "Desperate Housewives."

Oh, surprise: In five years, Gabby has kids, Bree's written a cookbook, Lynette's kid is arrested. Woo. (Who woulda guessed? Eye roll.)

But Susan kissing some man we've never seen before? WHOA. Did not see that coming.

I have heard no rumors about this, no speculation. Does Mike start doing drugs again? Do Susan's flightiness and little white lies just finally make him blow? Hmmm.

The good thing from last night's "Desperate Housewives" (a show I'm steadily losing interest in): The death of Gary Cole's character. While Cole first came to prominence in the serious mystery series "Midnight Caller," I will always think of him in "Office Space" and "The Brady Bunch" movies. I can't take him seriously. So, adios, Gary. Maybe it's time for some more comedy.

Let's talk about 'Sex'

2008-05-13T11:11:00.000-07:00

Are you a "Sex and the City" fan? Are psyched about the movie? Have you heard any gossip or spoilers about the film and the fates of Carrie, Charlotte, Miranda and Samantha?

A co-worker of mine at a major daily newspaper wants to talk to you for a story.

He needs folks in the Tacoma/Seattle/Olympia region to dish on 'Sex.'

Are you game? Let me know, and I'll get you in touch with my colleague.

If I don't have an e-mail or phone number for you ('cause you read my blog and I don't know you personally), let's figure out how to exchange those.

Maybe 'The Bachelor' gets what he deserves

2008-05-12T23:39:00.000-07:00

Bachelor Matt Grant picked Shayne Lamas.

Ew. Chelsea said it best: "She was the fakest of them all."

Matt picked Shayne. Lorenzo Lamas could be Matt's father-in-law. (Insert maniacal laughter here.)

I'm ... I'm ... I'm at a loss.

'Lost' discussion questions

2008-05-09T11:34:00.000-07:00

Christian Shepherd: Dead or alive? Discuss.

Locke's mom = Emily. Ben's mom = Emily. Same mother? Discuss.

And what the hell is up with creepy Richard Alpert? I actually screamed-squealed during last night's episode ("Cabin Fever").

Let's hear it for 'My Boys'

2008-04-30T23:42:00.000-07:00

“My Boys,” one of my favorite little comedies, returns June 12. (YAY!!!)

I started watching it because my favorite comedian, Jim Gaffigan, is on it. The show made me laugh, and I soon fell in love with the story and the characters.

Last season ended with our main character, sportswriter P.J. (played by Jordana Spiro), hopping on a plane to Italy with her friend Stephanie, Stephanie’s beau and P.J.’s mystery man in first class.

P.J. had three men vying for her attention at the time:

*Thorn, the old flame and Iraq war journalist (Jeremy Sisto)

*Matt, the professional baseball player (Travis Schuldt)

*Evan, the sweet botanist (Michael Landes)

Who is P.J.’s guy?

Or is it just one her “boys” – Mike, Bobby, Brendan, Andy or Kenny?

It's probably not Thorn because Sisto is now on "Law & Order" (and everywhere else!). But I keep hoping it's Thorn.

P.J. has said before that there are ethical dilemmas with her being a sports reporter and dating a professional athlete. That might rule out Matt (although the big deal in the season finale was that he was traded away from the Cubs).

As for Evan, we don't him well yet. We know he and P.J. like each other a lot, but I didn't get the sense that the romance there was stronger than what P.J. has with Matt or Thorn. (But Landes is easy on the eyes!)

If it ends up being one of the boys, I'll be bummed. Then again, Brendan, played by Reid Scott, is a cutie.

Can't wait till June 12 to find out.

So, who do you think P.J.'s mystery man is?

Discussion starts ... now!

Thank the Lord for the nighttime

2008-04-29T10:43:00.000-07:00

I am a huge Neil Diamond fan, so I am looking forward to Neil Diamond week on "American Idol" -- even though I don't really watch "Idol."

There are five finalists left, so that means five Diamond classics. Here are the five songs I think we'll hear -- and I'm probably totally off because I would never have picked the Andrew Lloyd Webber songs we heard last week:

"Forever in Blue Jeans"
"Cherry, Cherry"
"I Am … I Said"
"Play Me"
"Solitary Man"

These songs lend themselves to great vocals, and the singers can add their own dashes of pizazz.

Other songs that could be performed: "Song Sung Blue," "Red, Red Wine," "America," "Brother Love's Travelin' Salvation Show," "Kentucky Woman," "Holly Holy."

The shocker might be that someone sings "Heartlight." Please, God, no. My dream would be someone singing "Porcupine Pie." Or "Soolaimon."

Popular songs we won't hear: "Daydream Believer," "Girl You'll Be A Woman Soon," "Sweet Caroline," "You Don't Bring Me Flowers" (obviously 'cause it's a duet!), "Cracklin' Rosie."

Since I'm not a regular "American Idol" viewer, what I need to know is, will Neil perform tonight, too?

'Bachelor' predictions

2008-04-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

While Chelsea is my favorite of the final three candidates on "The Bachelor: London Calling," I don't think she'll be in the final 2.

I predict a showdown between Amanda and, God help us, Shayne. But I predict Amanda (aka Meeps) will prove victorious and that handsome Brit Matt Grant will propose to her in our final rose ceremony.

I predict that she will say yes, and then we'll find out tomorrow that they have broken up. (Actually, we'll find out that they've put the engagement on hold while they get to know each other better. And then they'll break up.)

We'll see what happens in a couple hours.

Monday night musings

2008-04-22T12:49:00.000-07:00

Two things struck me last night watching TV:

* Welcome back, Robin Sparkles. I love when “How I Met Your Mother” ventures back to Robin’s teenage years in Canada and her time as a pop starlet. Thank you, “HIMYM,” for the new Robin Sparkles’ song “Sandcastles in the Sand” and its video. Watch it here. And the last scene of the show? Long overdue.

* Watching "The Bachelor": What the heck is wrong with Shayne’s mother’s face?!?!? I cannot believe Lorenzo Lamas (Llama? Lamaze? Lah-maas?) was married to that. At first I thought she was a burn victim. And then I realized that she's probably owed a huge settlement for her botched plastic surgery. Her lack of makeup application skills didn't help either. Behold ...

Here's my thing about "The Bachelor" – my dirty little secret – I often watch the last two episodes of a season. I watch the Bachelor (this time cute Brit Matt Grant) meet the girls' families, and then I watch the finale to see who he chooses. Last night, I correctly predicted who would be sent packing. (Buh-bye, Noelle.)

Still stewing about who's gonna be Matt's bride-to-be (at least temporarily). Heh.

Sneak peek ...

2008-04-18T23:37:00.000-07:00

I've been doing some furtive TV blogging over here.

You can read my thoughts on this week's episode of "The Office" here. (I loved it, by the way.)

Some things will remain a secret

2008-04-14T12:55:00.000-07:00

-
A show I did not watch, "Secret Talents of the Stars," has been canceled after one airing.

Read more here.

My Thursday night ...

2008-04-14T12:44:00.000-07:00

-
I did watch "ER." It was OK.

I want Neela and Gates together. Doesn't look like that'll happen now that Gates is hookin' up with Sam.

But, really, I'm not attached to these characters much. I'm looking forward to Noah Wyle coming back next season for a few episodes.

Also Thursday ...

"The Office" returned, too, in its fine, awkward form. I cannot get over how much John Krasinski and Jenna Fischer can say with just a look or the raise of an eyebrow.

I'm kinda done, though, with the Michael and Jan relationship. The writers have made Jan too crazy and Michael too beaten down. I'd rather have more of daily life at Dunder Mifflin -- of Michael trying to impress people, of Dwight sharing his Schrute-isms, of Jim and Pam playing pranks on people, of Angela pooh-poohing everyone, of Kelly talking about naming her kid Usher. That's why I fell in love with "The Office."

FYI: I did not watch "Desperate Housewives" last night. The Husband and I saw "Cabaret" at the 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle. I love a good musical.

Must-see Thursdays are back!

2008-04-10T12:13:00.000-07:00

"The Office" is back tonight, and I am very excited.

I am looking forward to seeing Pam & Jim again, and I am wondering how the real-life pregnancy of Angela Kinsey (she plays tightly wound Angela) will be addressed, if at all.

And Lord knows, I've missed Dwight. A little dose of Schrute makes things better.

"ER" is back tonight, too. I am ambivalent about watching. It's grown so melodramatic this season, and I'm not as invested in the characters as I have been before.

I do enjoy Mekhi Phifer, but mostly because he played Junior Bunk on my all-time favorite show, "Homicide."

And Stamos is easy on the eyes.

But, see, neither of those things make "ER" itself a hot commodity for me. There's less Maura Tierney. There's less Goran Visnijc. There's more Scott Grimes. There are these "very special" episodes that are just too over the top.

I'll see what I do at 10 o'clock tonight.

But before then, I'll be watching "The Office," "30 Rock" and "Scrubs." Sweet.

Thy Kingdome come...

2008-04-01T23:11:00.001-07:00

"Reaper," one of my fave shows, is set in Seattle -- but filmed in Vancouver, B.C.

And tonight really proved that the show is NOT set in Seattle.

And it really irked me.

The camera pans the Seattle skyline at night. There's the Space Needle, the Columbia Tower, the Kingdome.

Um ...

The Kingdome was demolished in 2000.

I understand that producers use stock footage for stuff like this. In fact, I've seen this exact scan of the city before in movies. (And it's bothered me then, too, because they're supposed to be present-day movies.)

But, c'mon. Doesn't anyone note the change in some stock footage database? We do this at work for some of our file photos. ("Woman on left is dead." "Picture shot in 1996." "Do not use this photo in print.")

Here's what the provider of the Seattle shot used on "Reaper" tonight needs to say: "FYI: Footage includes the Kingdome, which does not exist anymore. Use this for a show set in 2008, and you'll look retarded."

Grrrr.

It kills credibility. Pay attention, people!

Legen -- wait for it -- dary

2008-03-31T23:04:00.000-07:00

It was perhaps the funniest thing I've seen on TV in a very long time.

The final scene of tonight's "How I Met Your Mother" showed pure genius.

It rivals the last scene of "Newhart." (But "Newhart" still wins, hands down.)

Long live Doogie.

The goodness starts at 12 seconds in. Enjoy.

It's all coming back to me now

2008-03-31T16:30:00.000-07:00

Because I think many of you need/want this info -- and partly because I need to post this somewhere I can find it regularly -- here's the list of when shows are coming back from their strike-imposed hiatus.

April 2: “Criminal Minds”; “CSI: New York”
April 3: “My Name Is Earl”; “CSI”; “Without a Trace”
April 4: “Ghost Whisperer”; “Numbers”
April 7: “Samantha Who?”
April 8: “NCIS”; “Boston Legal”
April 10: “30 Rock”; “The Office”; “Scrubs”; “ER”
April 11: “Moonlight”
April 13: “Desperate Housewives”
April 14: “Bones”; “Rules of Engagement”; “One Tree Hill”
April 15: “Law & Order: SVU”
April 17: “Smallville”
April 20: “Brothers & Sisters”
April 21: “Gossip Girl”
April 22: “Reaper”
April 23: “The Game”
April 24: “Ugly Betty”; “Grey’s Anatomy”; “Supernatural”; “Lost”
April 28: “House”
April 29: “Shark”

Let me know if you don't remember some of these shows. I kinda forgot some of 'em existed, too.

Get out, you 'Jezebel'

2008-03-25T23:05:00.001-07:00

"Jezebel James," we hardly knew ye.

"The Return of Jezebel James," the new show from "Gilmore Girls" creator Amy Sherman Palladino, has already fallen into the scrap heap.

Fox announced the cancellation today.

I didn't get to see this one because it aired on Friday nights. (Dumb move, Fox. Friday night has "Doomed" written all over it.) I wanted to see it because it had two fabulous actresses in it: Parker Posey and Lauren Ambrose. I didn't want to see it because it got seriously lukewarm reviews.

Oh, well. Maybe another network will pick it up. Or maybe someone will create a great TV vehicle for Ms. Posey.

(Buck up, Parker: You'll always have a place at the Dairy Queen.)

'Ah, nuts' for 'Jericho' fans

2008-03-23T23:45:00.000-07:00

In case you hadn't heard, CBS has canceled "Jericho."

Again.

The series finale will air Tuesday.

I never watched this show, but The Husband did. He said the show just wasn't the same this season. I know he and some of my co-workers were pretty bummed/horrified by the killing of a deaf girl on the show.

Nuclear war. The offing of "Major Dad." Killing of deaf girls. I'll pass -- and evidently so does CBS and most of the American viewing public.

It's time to cha-cha and foxtrot

2008-03-18T23:48:00.000-07:00

"Dancing with the Stars" -- The Women.

I watched the six female contestants dance tonight on "Dancing With the Stars."

I liked Melissa Jaret Winokur, Kristi Yamaguchi and Marlee Matlin. I thought Shannon Elizabeth did a good job. Priscilla Presley scared me. And I think Monica Seles has potential.

But Monica's going first -- unless the rest of the voting public is as frightened by Priscilla Presley's face as much as I was.

Monica didn't do so red-hot, earning just 15 points from the judges. She doesn't exude personality. I'd pay to watch her play tennis, but I'm not sure America will tune in to watch her dance.

But another athlete -- world-champion figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi -- has what is takes to go all the way. She earned all 9s from the judges tonight. Wow. Her grace as a figure skater is definitely working to her advantage here.

I appreciated Melissa's energy, but it might get tiresome after awhile. But, man, I like seeing her out there. She makes it look like fun and you know she's trying. And she's so darned cute.

And I don't have words for how Marlee Matlin floored me. I have no idea how she did so incredibly well. I know it's been said that if you don't have one sense, others will take over. That's got to be what's happening for Marlee. If you tuned in during Fabian and Marlee's dance and had no idea who was out there, you would never, ever have known that she is deaf. It was simply inspiring.

Don't expect regular "DWTS" updates, as I'm a casual viewer of the show. When it gets down to the final handful of contestants, I'll probably watch a little more often.

Prediction: Kristi Yamaguchi will be in the final 2, if not the winner.

Reunited 'ER' would feel so good

2008-03-17T10:25:00.000-07:00

The hot rumor in TV land is that the producers of "ER" are wooing former stars back for the show's final season in 2008-2009.

Yes, that includes George Clooney.

And it sounds like old George is considering it, seeing as "ER" gave his career a big fat boost in 1994. (Hmmm. Somehow those stints on "The Facts of Life" and the sitcom "E/R" didn't do the trick.)

The producers have also said they want Anthony Edwards back. That should be interesting: Edwards' character, Mark Greene, died in 2002. (For that matter, Edwards' career has been kinda dead since he left "ER." Ouch.)

I was a big "ER" fan when it began. I watched pretty steadily for a number of years, and then I drifted away. I started watching again about three years ago. Sure, I like the show, but I do miss the original cast. So I'd definitely be game for a final season that features our long lost friends
Doug Ross, Mark Greene, Carol Hathaway, Peter Benton, Susan Lewis and Jerry and Malik. And it sounds like we can already expect a visit from John Carter ...

I first read the "ER" final season dish here on Entertainment Weekly's Web site:

We might just have the writers' strike to thank for bringing George Clooney back to the ER! Yep, you read that right; NBC, facing a shortened development season brought on by the 100-day labor dispute, is in the final stages of renewing ER for a 15th season next fall. The reprieve has prompted executive producers John Wells and David Zabel to make ambitious plans for what (finally) appears to be the drama's last season. "We want to revisit characters that have existed on the show over the years and say where they are now," says Zabel of stars like Clooney (Doug) and Julianna Margulies (Carol). "We'd love to get them all back in some way, but that doesn't mean we're going to. But we're gonna try."
He's already guaranteed a visit by at least one alumnus: Noah Wyle will reprise his role as Dr. Carter for four episodes next season. Goran Visnjic (Kovac) is also expected to make a return engagement. "The toughest will be getting Tony Edwards because his character is dead," says Zabel, laughing. That's a little tricky, but there are ways to do it that we've thought about. Even if it were like a lost episode from 1996 featuring him and Wyle."

In the meantime, Zabel will keep the ER buzzing for the remaining six outings this season by bringing on Aida Turturro (The Sopranos) for a three-week stint as a patient and adding a hot new doc (possibly an unknown actor from Australia) who's supposed to make Dr. Gates (John Stamos) look like a plain white-coat. "He'll be a sexy rake, a devil you can't resist," explains Zabel, adding, "A dynamic new character has the ability to motivate everybody, though it's easy to get excited about next season considering it will be the last."

And here's what imdb.com has posted (obviously a little rehash from EW's gossip):

"Michael Clayton" actor George Clooney is reportedly set to make a comeback on the long-running medical drama "ER" for its final season. The series' producer David Zabel is desperate to get characters old and new together for a one-off special to celebrate the hit show ending - namely Clooney, who would reprise his role as Dr. Douglas Ross. The TV drama, which will reportedly end after its 15th season, catapulted the 46-year-old star to the Hollywood A-list after his run on the show from 1994 to 1999. Zabel says, "We want to revisit characters that have existed on the show over the years and say where they are now. We'd love to get them all back in some way - that doesn't mean we are going to but we are going to try." And bosses at the show's network NBC are also eager to bring back actor Anthony Edwards - despite the fact his character Dr. Mark Greene died of a brain tumor. Zabel adds, "There are ways to do it that we've thought about - even if it were like a lost episode from 1996."

It would definitely be a way for "ER" to go out on top. And, c'mon, who wouldn't take Clooney over Stamos?

(OK, think aboout it: When Clooney started on "ER" in 1994, Stamos was in the final years of "Full House." Have mercy.)

Here's to a fabulous, Clooney-filled final season of "ER."

Here's what I don't get ...

2008-03-13T23:13:00.001-07:00

With a headline like that, you'd assume I'd be talking about tonight's episode of "Lost."

But I'm not.

Well, not really.

Here's the thing: I am a BIG fan of "Reaper" on the CW. It's a show that's "on the bubble" -- meaning the CW doesn't know whether or not it'll renew it next season.

So, here's this struggling show. The network needs to find it an audience. The CW's aired it all season on Tuesday nights. This week, there's a new episode to show, and it even has Jamie Kennedy as a guest star.

But when does the CW decide to air this new episode of this "on the bubble" show? At 9 p.m. Thursday against "Lost" and a "CSI" repeat. Yes, the network airs it against two of the biggest shows on TV.

WTF.

It feels as if the CW is trying to kill "Reaper" by pulling a stunt like that.

You have this fledgling show, something unlike any other series on TV, a show that could use a little love and attention and, well, viewers. You have a brand-new episode during a period when new scripted TV is hard to come by. You even have a guest star who has a kinda-sorta cult following.

AND YOU DECIDE TO AIR IT AGAINST TWO EXTREMELY POPULAR, RATINGS-GRABBER SERIES.

I don't get it.

How is "Reaper" supposed to survive?

I'm pulling for this show. Here's hoping the bubble hasn't burst for "Reaper" yet.

(I don't have a lot of faith in the CW right now, though. I read today that the network is working on a spinoff of "Beverly Hills, 90210." I wish I could make crap like this up, but I can't. Read more here.)

What would The Professor say?

2008-03-11T13:28:00.000-07:00

I'd like to thank The Associated Press for the opening sentence on this story …

Former 'Gilligan’s Island' star caught with marijuana in car

DRIGGS, Idaho — Perhaps they should have called her Mary Jane.

A surprise birthday party for Dawn Wells, the actress who played Mary Ann on “Gilligan’s Island,” ended with a nearly three-hour tour of the Teton County sheriff’s office and jail when the 69-year-old was caught with marijuana in her vehicle while driving home.

Wells is now serving six months’ unsupervised probation for the crime. She was sentenced Feb. 29 to five days in jail, fined $410.50 and placed on probation after pleading guilty to one count of reckless driving.

Sheer genius. Give this reporter an award.

We've chuckled over this a lot today.

WORST EPISODE EVER

2008-03-10T23:04:00.000-07:00

Oh. My. God.

God help me if that was the series finale of "October Road."

It was wrong on sooooo many levels, including the final scene being Nick, Owen, Phil and Ikey playing "fake band" to "Roll with the Changes" by REO Speedwagon.

I was screaming at the television. SCREAMING.

Janet cheats on Eddie. Eddie and Janet break up. Hannah sticks with Big Cat. An all-too-pervy Rooster. A predictable return to Knights Ridge by Nick. (The only thing missing was seeing Nick actually say to the limo driver, "Turn the car around.") Old tennis rackets used as guitars. And of all the REO Speedwagon songs to use (not that it's not in my iPod or anything) ...

The only good thing was the Aubrey/Ronnie hookup.

The goal must've been to put such a bad taste in all the viewers' mouths that it wouldn't matter if the show got canceled.

If that was the goal, writers, I say, "Congratulations." (Insert vomiting noise here.)

Worst. Episode. Ever.

So, goodbye, Nick and Hannah and Eddie and Janet and Owen and Pizza Girl. Here's to a landslide coming along and washing this "Road" out.

Yep, this defines "mawkish melodrama."

P.S. Dear ABC, if you do renew "October Road," I'll be curled up on the sofa watching it next season. I promise.

The coolest friend EVER

2008-03-10T12:07:00.000-07:00

My old friend Mekeisha Madden Toby writes about TV for the Detroit News. We worked together for several years at The News Tribune in Tacoma, Wash., and we became good friends over our love of all things pop culture. We still e-mail back and forth about TV (and other things, of course). And she knows my love of a certain show.

So she gave me a little shout-out in a recent column. Read it here.

Mekeisha, you are the best -- as a TV writer, a friend. I miss you loads. And I'm very glad the Detroit News lets you cover the TV biz from California now. A West Coast get-together is in order.

And, yes, I am glad "October Road" is on tonight. And, yes, I do love "mawkish melodramas."

This one's for the boys …

2008-03-07T11:55:00.000-08:00

I received this e-mail from my “Lost”-loving co-worker last night after the episode (“The Other Woman”) ended.

Subject: That was ...

... the best episode ever!

I don’t think it was. (I mean, it was good, but ...) Then again, I don’t have a thing for Juliet like my co-worker.

Juliet in a black bikini emerging from ocean was not as exciting for me as it was for my co-worker. (Actually, it seems many of my male co-workers thought this was an excellent episode.)

What I enjoyed about the episode was the information about Widmore from Ben. I enjoyed some hilarious lines/moments from Ben -- prepping for dinner with Juliet, telling Locke he taped over the Red Sox game, ranting at Juliet about Goodwin and then maniacally spouting "Because you're mine!" as Juliet stands over Goodwin's dead body ... and then pause ... And then calmly, sincerely, "Take as long as you need."

I like when people magically appear in the jungle. I like it -- but it also creeps me out.

I love that we got some answers about Ben and The Island. But I did not like that these answers brought more questions. Two steps forward, one step back.

I think next week's episode should be juicy, but I know the menfolk will be sad because, well, I think Juliet stays fully clothed. Sorry, guys ...

My lusty, clandestine love affair with 'Lost'

2008-02-26T11:02:00.000-08:00

My friend Kelli Lynn sent me this link today. It's to an Entertainment Weekly interview with the producers/writers of "Lost."

I read every word. I told Kelli that stories like this are “taunting.”

And then I had a realization:

I am in an abusive relationship with “Lost.”

It slaps me around, and I come back for more.

At an appointed time.

Glued to the TV for one hour every Thursday night.

Like a dutiful partner.

Who gets taunted and teased with facts and weirdness and music and little hints of love.

It hurts and it's confusing. But I come back. Every time.

Oh, “Lost,” I still love you. I'll see you Thursday, OK?

Please, Mr. Harris, come back!

2008-02-25T23:20:00.000-08:00

Because of this man, I shed a little tear during a sitcom tonight.

"New Adventures of Old Christine" made me cry tonight because Christine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) and Mr. Harris (Blair Underwood, above) split up.

... sigh ...

I won't lie: I have a total crush on Blair Underwood. I am hoping that Mr. Harris comes back soon -- even though I know Underwood is busy with two other shows right now ("In Treatment" on HBO and "Dirty Sexy Money" on ABC).

Other than being freakishly handsome, Underwood brings a real charisma to "Old Christine," and he plays the straight man to Louis-Dreyfus' goofy Christine so well. (And my little factoid of the day? Blair Underwood was born in Tacoma, Washington!)

So, yes, I cried at a sitcom. It was one of the saddest breakup scenes ever.

Go figure.

P.S. Blair Underwood, however, is not the sexiest man on TV. That honor goes to Geoff Stults of "October Road."

Stults might be tied with Jeffrey Dean Morgan (aka Javier Bardem). Go here to see what I'm talking about when comparing Javier and Jeffrey Dean.

Oscars, "October Road" and other things ...

2008-02-24T16:30:00.000-08:00

The Oscars are on tonight, and I am ambivalent about watching the broadcast. The only nominated movie that rocked my socks this year was "Juno." I did not like "No Country for Old Men"; it gave me the heebie-jeebies.

I have a feeling that the ratings for tonight's show will be very, very low. People are not attached to this year's movies like they have been to others in the past.

Nonetheless, I will watch the Oscars tonight as I eat chili and rice at my brother's house. (Chili and rice is a staple of the McEntee family diet.) Jon Stewart will make the telecast entertaining, I am sure. Maybe he'll bring Colbert out with him ...

In TV news, I am glad the writers' strike is over and that my beloved shows will come back soon. I am looking forward to "The Office" and "How I Met Your Mother" and "Desperate Housewives" and "Scrubs" and more episodes of "Lost."

This has been the first season, though, that I've been really thankful for midseason replacements. Those have come in handy during the strike. I am glad that "October Road" has been back, and I wish more of you were watching it. It's become one of my favorite shows.

I missed, however, the days when networks used to air tons of reruns. During the 12 weeks of the strike, NBC could've re-aired "Journeyman" and perhaps found an audience for it. (Remember when the TV world used to work that way? We had to watch reruns of our shows until new episodes were available?) Or I could have caught up on shows I hadn't been watching. (Have I mentioned that my love affair with "Grey's Anatomy" died when "GA" went up against "The Office"?) Oh well.

OK, back to my midseason loves: I realized last week that the creator of "October Road" is the same writer behind "Beautiful Girls," a movie I loved several years back. The plots are similar (as they are both based on a similar experience of the writer). I like that "October Road" has more opportunity for character development and plot development than, say, a two-hour movie.

Anyway, I wish more people were watching "O-Road" and its fabulous cast. I've been a big Laura Prepon (Hannah) fan since her time on "That '70s Show," and I've become a huge fan of Rebecca Field (Janet) since reading stories about and profiles of her. (She's also a friend on MySpace.) I think Geoff Stults (Eddie) is one of the best-looking men on TV. I love the relationship between Eddie and Janet; it's awkward, it's sweet, it's honest, it's funny.

"October Road" feels a little like a "thirtysomething" for a new generation. (Oh, I hear some of those groans out there. Remember: I was a huge "thirtysomething" fan even as a teenager.) It's a character-driven show, with introspective writing and characters. I am scared ABC will cancel this show, so I am asking all of you to give "October Road" a chance. It's not airing this week because "A Raisin in the Sun" is on. But it will be back at 10 p.m. March 3 on ABC. Tune in.

Other than "October Road," I'm still watching "Throwdown with Bobby Flay," and I am really, really happy that "The New Adventures of Old Christine" is back. While I enjoy Julia Louis-Dreyfus, my favorite part of the show is Hamish Linklater, who plays Christine's brother. He steals every scene he's in.

Because all sorts of shows will be back in the next few weeks -- and because it now looks like our TV season will stretch into June -- it might be time for The Husband and I to invest in DVR. (Yes, I've been dragging my feet on this.) In order to watch all my faves, DVR will be a necessity.

So, in a few short weeks, we'll have new episodes on. (We even got a new "Saturday Night Live" last night! Woo-hoo!) Anyway, what are you looking forward to? Or do you hate TV? Do you have DVR/TiVo? Do you love it? Has it changed your viewing habits?

Let me know.

One last thing: If you know me well, you know I have a deep affection for TV theme songs. My sister found me a dynamite site -- http://mythemes.tv -- to listen to my old favorites. It's truly addictive.

OK, it's almost Oscar time. Go "Juno"!

From one TV lover to another ...

2008-01-29T12:48:00.000-08:00

Dear Noreen (that's my sister),

I'd like to say that amid all this grief/despair/awfulness in our lives the past several weeks, one thing has me pumped right now.

On Thursday, "Lost" returns.

Oh, you remember "Lost," right? A bunch of people survive a plane crash and then face a man with bug eyes, a man with a patch and a smoke monster -- and their friends die, a kid gets kidnapped, they discover some weird science project -- and then some of these survivors FINALLY get off the island? Yeah, that show. Good stuff.

That is my happy thought of the day.

To put you in the mood, you should check out this list.

See you Thursday for some serious TV watching. I can't wait.

*tee hee hee*

Love,
KT

I'm quotable!

2008-01-25T15:09:00.000-08:00

I'm actually in the paper today.

OK, my name is.

My theory on the "Lost" mystery is in a newspaper article in The News Tribune. Actually, it's me saying that I think Evangeline Lilly is onto something with her theory.

You can read the story here.

While the writers are away, I turn to Bobby Flay

2008-01-09T21:05:00.000-08:00

Food Network.

Oh, yes, Food Network.

The TV offerings on mainstream TV kind of suck right now, but I have really, truly discovered Food Network.

There's a show about cookies on right now. Cookies, I tell you.

What can be better than that? (OK, I know, eating cookies could be better than that.)

The Husband and I have become fans of "Throwdown with Bobby Flay." (Years ago, I had a total crush on Bobby Flay. Not so much now, though he does have a cute smile.) The premise of "Throwdown" is this: Bobby learns of someone who has a signature dish and is renowned for this signature item. Bobby learns about this item and with his team comes up with his own spin on said item.

We've watched three episodes:

* Sticky Buns. This is, of course, the episode that reeled us in. I can't resist the words "sticky buns" on my digital TV guide. Bobby faced off with the gal who owns and operates Flour in Boston. Not to spoil the fun, but the owner's "Sticky Sticky Bun" (her famed item) trounced Bobby's bun.

* Muffalettas. When I first saw this title, I assumed that Bobby would be going to Central Grocery in New Orleans. No. He faced off with the brothers at Serio's in New Orleans. (Seriously, I can't imagine anyone can beat Central Grocery. If you Google "muffaletta," the first thing you find references Central Grocery in the Big Easy. Mmmm. Eating in New Orleans. Must go ... Oh, wait: Gotta finish writing about TV.) Anyway, Bobby blew it. He made a good-looking sandwich, but I don't think it can qualify as a muffaletta.

* Crepes. Two young women in Austin, Texas, make killer crepes at Flip Happy Crepes. Bobby -- the expert chef! -- had never made crepes before, so he had to learn how to make the actual crepe and then what to fill it with. For the throwdown, the Flip Happy ladies and Bobby each made a savory crepe and a dessert crepe. Bobby used blue corn in his cakes, and that made them less fluffy. The Flip Happy team dominated on the savory crepe; they used pulled pork while Bobby used BBQ'd duck. On the dessert crepe, it was close. The judges seemed to lean toward Bobby's strawberry rhubarb over the ladies' chocolate-banana concoction. But on the final verdict: Flip Happy beats Bobby Flay on both contests.

So, does Bobby EVER win? I'm going to keep watching to find out.

Don't miss this: The other program I've fallen in love with is on PBS. "Pioneers of Television" is incredibly engaging. Last week's installment was about the pioneers of sitcoms, and tonight's focused on late-night television. Completely fascinating stuff -- great interviews, great clips, great history lessons. There are two more installments on the next two Wednesdays: "Variety" airs on Jan. 16, and "Game Shows" airs Jan. 23. The program airs at 8 p.m. on the PBS station here. Check your local listings.

Anyway, on the first episode of "Pioneers," "The Dick Van Dyke Show" was highlighted. I have fond memories of watching reruns of "Dick Van Dyke" when I was a small child -- so young, in fact, my memories are from the family room of my family's old house which we moved out of when I was 5.

Yes, it's true: I watched a lot of TV growing up, and that always surprises The Husband. He didn't. And when I worked nights, I would come home and watch old shows on Nick at Nite. My favorites: "Donna Reed" and "Dobie Gillis." TV was never a way of life for The Husband. He wasn't that familiar with "The Dick Van Dyke Show."

So, "Pioneers" shows all these clips from "Dick Van Dyke." The Husband is howling laughing. Not only did I love watching the antics of Rob and Laura Petrie and the staff of the fictional "Alan Brady Show" again, but I also loved seeing The Husband's reaction. I got to see what it's like for someone who had never, ever seen these moments before. Decades later, Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore, Rose Marie, Morey Amsterdam and Carl Reiner are still making people laugh.

Incredible.

Today's happy news

2008-01-07T16:14:00.001-08:00

"MEDIUM" IS ON TONIGHT!

"MEDIUM" IS ON TONIGHT!

The Husband and I are soooo excited. We've been in love with this show since its premiere.

I'm slightly sad that it's up against "October Road," but I have to give up a new fave for my beloved old fave.

Thank goodness Joe, Allison, Marie, Bridgette and Ariel are back tonight. YAY!!!!

There are many things we like about "Medium." We love the family dynamic of Joe, Allison and their daughters. We love the weird cases. We love the acting and the suspense and sometimes the creepiness.

It's on at 10 p.m. on NBC.

In other TV news: Last night, I watched the conclusion of the "Desperate Housewives" tornado arc. LAME. That show is going nowhere fast. Snoozer. I did laugh out loud at something -- Kyle MacLachlan saying something about Bree's gay son having a mesh tank top the gay contractor would find irresistible. MacLachlan's delivery was superb.

I also watched the season premiere of "The Wire." The Baltimore Sun's newsroom plays an integral part of "The Wire's" fifth and final season. My favorite exchange -- one that only a copy editor can really, really love?

Gus Haynes, the city editor: ”You say 120 people were evacuated.”

Gutierrez, the reporter: “Yeah, they were.”

City editor: “You can’t evacuate people. I mean, you can if you want, but that’s not what you want to say here."

Copy editor: “A building can be evacuated. To evacuate a person is to give that person an enema. The details, Ms. Gutierrez. At the Baltimore Sun, God still resides in the details.”

What made the exchange even better for me was that Clark Johnson played the city editor. Clark played Meldrick Lewis on my all-time favorite show, "Homicide: Life on the Street." (In case you don't know, "Homicide" and "The Wire" were written/created by the same guy, David Simon, a former Baltimore Sun reporter.)

End of the 'Journey'

2007-12-20T01:33:00.000-08:00

Tonight was the final episode of "Journeyman."

The creator of the series, Kevin Falls, said fans would find tonight's finale -- likely the series finale since NBC didn't pick up the show -- satisfying.

I didn't.

Still too much I want to know, still too much left unanswered. In just 12 episodes, I've grown attached to these characters. We don't find out what causes Dan to travel. We don't learn why Dan jumps back in time while Livia jumps forward.

I want more.

There's so much carbon-copy stuff on TV; it was nice to watch something so original. (Yeah, yeah, I know about "Quantum Leap." I was a fan. "Journeyman" was different, though.)

Fans of the series are launching a campaign to persuade NBC to renew it: They are sending boxes of Rice-a-Roni to the network. (The show is set in San Francisco.) Sadly, I don't think it will work. But surprise me.

I keep hoping that Sci-Fi or Bravo or USA will pick it up. It's unlikely -- but nonetheless possible.

And if no one gives "Journeyman" love ... Bummer. But it was fun while it lasted. I was glad to have Reed Diamond back on TV for a while, and I got a chance to fall in love with Kevin McKidd.

Hmmm. Maybe I should mail off some Rice-a-Roni ...

I give my love Frehley

2007-12-12T19:13:00.000-08:00

My favorite thing on TV in the past few weeks?

The use of Ace Frehley's "New York Groove" on the season opener of "October Road."

Heck, yeah!

We had that song on a 45 growing up. I love that frickin' song. I just downloaded it on iTunes. Definitely worth the 99 cents.

Here I am, and in this city
With a fistful of dollars
And, baby, you better believe
I'm back, back in the New York groove ...

My guilty pleasures

2007-11-26T15:28:00.000-08:00

I've started watching "Brothers & Sisters," a show I was sure I'd despise, a show I'd purposefully not watched.

I don't like Calista Flockhart. I don't much care for Rob Lowe.

And now I am addicted.

Can't wait for Kitty's wedding. Wonder what will happen when Tommy finds out that Justin is dating Lena. Love Chevy Chase as Nora's (Sally Field) romantic interest.

The teasers at the end of "Desperate Housewives" drew me in. Something about an unplanned pregnancy, an ugly divorce and a guy running for president hooked me.

I'm a sucker for a good soap opera, I guess.

Meanwhile ... I can't believe Marie Osmond's in the finals of "Dancing With the Stars." I understand she's wholesome and appeals to the demographic that watches the show, but she's not very good. I'm pulling for Maksim. Well, I guess I'm pulling for Mel B, but it's really because of Maks. He's a delight for the eyes.

And I'm doing a happy dance because "October Road" is back. I love this show, as I'm sure I've written before. I love the story: Hometown Boy writes a popular novel that makes his hometown buddies look bad and then has the gaul to come back home -- but Hometown Boy is really a softie, and he's still pining for his high school sweetheart. I love the characters, love the acting. "October Road," too, has that soapy quality I'm a sucker for.

So that's what I'm watching and thinking about. I know some of my favorites have no new episodes left for this season, and that's disappointing. I hope the writers' strike ends soon and that all parties walk away happy.

How did it get to be the end of November already?

Inquiring minds want to know ...

2007-11-07T13:57:00.001-08:00

I am only a little worried about how the writers' strike will affect my TV viewing. I'll be more worried if this continues for a long time.

That's the answer to the question I'm getting asked a lot these days.

For the most part, the scripted shows have episodes stockpiled for several more weeks, if not months.

And shows that have been on the cancellation bubble get to air a little while longer. (Yay for "Journeyman"!)

"Lost" already has a bunch of episodes ready to go for its February debut. So we're OK there. No having to wait any longer than February for another visit to Jack, Kate, Sawyer and the gang.

And a follow-up: John and I have fallen in love with "Pushing Daisies." John says it might be his favorite new show of the season. Mine is still "Reaper."

Turned on and tuned in

2007-10-03T19:00:00.000-07:00

THE NEW SEASON HAS STARTED, AND I HAVEN'T POSTED A DARNED THING!

I have watched several new shows, and some of them will definitely be in Kate's TV Repertoire.

And some of them will not.

My favorite new show so far is "Reaper." It's the first thing I've actively watched on The CW. I love it. John and I have made it must-see TV in our household. It's funny. It's dramatic. It's set in Seattle. My beloved Kevin Smith is involved. Creepy Ray Wise from "Twin Peaks" plays the devil.

I was afraid, at first, about how "Reaper" would make us feel for this young man whose soul has been sold to Satan. How could this be compelling TV for a Catholic girl like me?

The thing is: It's a morality tale. Sam, our main character, is sent out to find souls who have escaped Hell and bring them back. That's a good mission, right?

Sam is constantly worried that he, too, will die and go to Hell. In the pilot, though, Satan says to him, "Don't worry, kid. I've seen how this ends. God always wins."

Then craziness, hilarity, creepiness, fun ensue.

Watch "Reaper." It's on at 9 p.m. Tuesdays.

I've also started watching "Journeyman" and "Life." I've watched "Journeyman" twice now; it's staying in the rotation for now. It's like "Quantum Leap" just a smidge. Guy goes back in time to "fix" things. Where it differs is that our main character, Dan, is popping in and out of his regular life and into the past. Everyone wonders if Dan is just being irresponsible or if he has a drug problem or a brain tumor.

What I think I enjoy most about "Journeyman" is the humanness of Dan (his past, his present, his newspaper job, his hot car, his faults) and his wife. I like Dan's story. And I am drawn in by the guy who plays Dan -- Kevin McKidd. There's something about him that makes me want to watch.

I also love Reed Diamond as his brother. (Long live "Homicide"!) Not only do I think Reed is a terrific actor, but also the resemblance between Kevin McKidd and Reed Diamond is almost freakish.

"Journeyman" is on at 10 p.m. Mondays on NBC.

I've watched "Life" once. It's on again tonight, and I will probably watch it. I am still figuring out if this is must-see TV for me. It's not fully what I expected, but that's OK. I'm wondering where this show will go. I'm wondering if this main character, Charlie, will stop mumbling. There's a little humor mixed into the drama, and it's a compelling story: Police officer is wrongly convicted of crime. The mistake comes out. Police officer is set free, gets a huge settlement and goes back to work as a detective. (Of course, the reason he goes back is to find out who framed him and get revenge. But he never says that outright.)

"Life" has potential. As I said, I'm giving it another try tonight. It's on at 10 p.m. Wednesdays on NBC.

OK, so what's been disappointing or flat-out bad?

* John and I watched the first episode of "K-Ville" on Fox. Eh. I love Cole Hauser and I love New Orleans, but this show just didn't reel me in. John and I didn't feel like we needed to see another episode.

* John begged me to watch "Cavemen." He wanted to see what kind of train wreck it was. We have but one TV, so I complied -- and there was nothing else on that I just HAD to watch. So ... We watched. It's bad. It's not as bad as you might think, but it's bad. It feels really forced, and the acting isn't that good. Plus, I never really enjoyed the Geico Caveman commercials to begin with. (Only highlight: One of my favorite actor-comedians, Nick Swardson, was in the first episode. I was kind of disappointed in Nick for that career move.)

* We kept the TV on after "Cavemen" for "Carpoolers." It was worse than "Cavemen." Just skip it. It's painful. The talents of Jerry O'Connell, Faith Ford and Jerry Minor go to waste. If you have to yell, "Oh my god, make that man put some pants on!" at the TV, it's not worth watching.

* I caught a glimpse or two of "Private Practice" last week. Addison was never my favorite character on "Grey's Anatomy," so I didn't feel like I needed to watch her spin-off. I like Tim Daly, Taye Diggs and Audra McDonald, but mostly I want the latter two to sing a duet as I love their Broadway work more than their TV and film stuff. I'm not sure how I feel about this show yet. The peeks I took last week seemed whiny and not what I needed to add to my TV docket. (Instead I was watching Mandy Patinkin's second-to-last episode of "Criminal Minds. Oooh, Mandy, Taye and Audra could put on a show!) There's hope for "Private Practice." Time will tell.

I plan to watch "Pushing Daisies" tonight. It's received rave reviews, and it seems like something I'll enjoy. I did watch part of "Chuck," and while I love Zachary Levi and the show looks darned phenomenal, I can't be pulled away from "How I Met Your Mother" yet. (FYI: My TV writer friend Shawn says "Pushing Daisies" and "Chuck" are the new shows to watch this season. He'd seen the pilots for both, and he recommended those as the best of the fall.)

What's surprised me about the season thus far is that nothing's been canceled yet. And from what I've read, ratings for new shows haven't been in the toilet.

I won't be surprised if "Carpoolers" is the first to get canceled. It's just not good.

I know that the new shows with the BEST ratings are "Private Practice" and "Bionic Woman," so they're safe for now.

The next thing on my agenda -- other than "Pushing Daisies" in 12 minutes -- is to sign up for DVR or TiVo. (Seriously, quote from one of my fave co-workers: "Does no one love you enough to get you TiVo?") I had to pick between "The Office" and "Grey's" last week. It was painful. "The Office" won, and I still haven't watched last week's trip to Seattle Grace. Yikes. Must ... get ... TiVo. (Quote from another colleague: "You of all people need TiVo. Kate, DVR is 10 bucks through Comcast. Do yourself a favor.") For now I'm thankful that the major networks re-run most of their shows online.

We'll delve into the old shows I'm watching in another post. I've got enchiladas to get out of the oven and a Final Jeopardy! to solve.

ADDENDUM
Worst line so far of the TV season: "Keep your penis in your genus." It's from "Caveman." Go figure.

What is up with Jeremy Sisto?

2007-08-22T22:42:00.000-07:00

When did Jeremy Sisto become TV's Everyman?

Don't get me wrong: I really like the guy. But he's freakin' everywhere these days.

He's joined the cast of "Law & Order."

He was on this week's episode of "My Boys."

He was on "Kidnapped" last season.

He was in one of the vignettes in the "Nightmares & Dreamscapes" miniseries.

He did a stint on "Six Feet Under."

And those are what I think of before I hit IMDB.

Moreover, because this is a TV blog, I won't mention the movies I've seen him in lately.

I get it: Jeremy Sisto is a cutie; he's a good actor. But I can't tell, really, if he's a TV star with some movie creds, or if he's a movie star "slumming it" on TV. (I always thought he was a movie star. All the TV appearances, and signing on to "L&O," have me rethinking my stance.)

I seriously feel like he's everywhere.

And it's not that I mind. I like him. I find him appealing, engaging.

But he's popping up on this show and that show. I was totally surprised to see him on "My Boys." I kinda thought drama was his thing -- but he was great on "My Boys."

So what is up with Jeremy Sisto? Why is he everywhere? Where will I see him next?

I had to check IMDB. He did an episode of "Numb3rs" this season, too. He's done a voice for "American Dad," and a couple years back he had a guest stint on "Dawson's Creek." And he's scheduled for another visit to "My Boys." But most of his other credits are movies. And that says to me: Jeremy Sisto is a movie star. And now he's taking over my TV.

I'm not sure I've seen an actor dominate a year of TV like he has. I am still trying to wrap my mind around it. I guess I figure you sign on to "Law & Order," and you just do that show. No showing up on "My Boys" or "Numb3rs."

Then again ...

"Law & Order" stalwart S. Epatha Merkerson has been making guest appearances on "The Closer" as Brenda Leigh's doctor. Awesome. (Merkerson will always be Reba the Mail Lady to me, though.)

Anyway, that's my rant about Jeremy Sisto (who I do really like).

New season coming soon. I'll let you know what I think (and how Mr. Sisto is doing).

Oh, I can't freakin' wait

2007-07-23T15:55:00.000-07:00

Sweet Lord! One of my longtime (and quite unusual crushes) will replace Bob Barker on "The Price is Right."

Drew Carey, come on down!

Yes, Drew Carey. YAY!

This has me positively giddy.

I can't wait for a vacation when I can watch "The Price is Right" every day.

The Emmys

2007-07-22T21:37:00.001-07:00

So, the Emmy nominations were announced Thursday morning, and while there were some serious high notes, there were some very disheartening choices.

Like anything to do with "Two and a Half Men." (OK, I take that back. I love Conchata Farrell and Holland Taylor.)

HOWEVER, one of the 5 best comedies on TV? I think not. It's crude. It's crass. It's juvenile. It's really not that funny. Gosh, Hollywood, you're just oozing with class ...

So what comedy should have earned a spot? "Scrubs." "How I Met Your Mother." "Extras." "New Adventures of Old Christine." "My Name is Earl."

But the heaping of nominations on "Two and a Half Men" wasn't the only thing that disappointed me. Not even close.

* Where was the nomination for Best Drama for "Lost"? It had one of its most riveting seasons, and it got left out. Grrrrr.
* "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip" deserved assloads more love than it got. (Yes, John Goodman was a great guest star, but Matthew Perry and Steven Weber turned in top-notch work every damn episode.) It always kills me when a show or a movie is nominated for its casting and its writing and its direction, but no cast members get nominated and it doesn't get a Best Show/Best Movie nomination. That happened with "Studio 60." I'm still wishing NBC would reconsider and renew it. That would make me happier than a nomination ...
* "The Closer," which is one the best things on TV these days, earned but one nomination; yeah, Kyra Sedgwick rocks, but she has damn fine writers backing her up as well as a hilarious supporting cast. Thank yeeeeew.
* Wanda Sykes steals the freakin' show on "Old Christine." Can't believe she was overlooked.
* I wanted more praise for "Medium," although I'll take the nod for Patricia Arquette. She does carry the show.
* My beloved Paul Reubens didn't get nominated for his stint on "30 Rock."
* No nomination for John C. McGinley on "Scrubs." (Insert seething noise here.)
* I don't really care for the lineup in Best Actor in a Comedy Series, save Steve Carell. Alec Baldwin mostly parodies himself these days; I'm kinda sick of the guy. "Monk"? Eh. I liked Tony Shalhoub better on "Wings." And Charlie Sheen? Dont' EVEN get me started. When I was 13, I had a major crush on him. (Didja see "Lucas"?) Now I loathe him. I find him repulsive. And he's on a awful show. So who shoulda been nominated in this category? Jason Lee. Zach Braff.
* No nomination for Matthew Fox of "Lost." No nomination for Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje (aka Mr. Eko).
* No nominations is writing or main acting categories for "ER." Hmph.

So what did I like?

* Neil Patrick Harris' nod for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy.
* Rainn Wilson's nod for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy.
I'm hoping one of those two beats the pants off of Jon Cryer. Wilson and Harris bring to life two of the most legen -- wait for it -- dary characters on TV.
* Michael Emerson, one of my very favorites on TV, getting honored for his work on "Lost."
* "The Office" being nominated for Best Comedy.
* I don't watch "30 Rock," but I am pleased as punch that Tina Fey was nominated for her work.
* Yaaaaaay for Julia Louis-Dreyfus. I think more people need to watch "Old Christine."
* Props for "Scrubs" for the episode "My Musical." It nabbed a best direction in a comedy nod and some props for its songs.
* "Make Love, Not Warcraft." 'Nuff said.
* Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart will face off in Outstanding Variety, Music Or Comedy Series. (OK, Letterman, Conan and Bill Maher are there, too. I'll be happy if any of them win. Except Bill Maher. He's not as fantastic as the other four.)
* I love that the song "Dick in a Box" is nominated for an Emmy.
* My secret love, "Dancing With the Stars," is a contender in the Reality-Competition Program category.
* Nominations for Forest Whitaker and John Goodman.
* Nominations for Kyra Sedgwick, Patricia Arquette and Mariska Hargitay.

Observation: CBS has all these high-rated dramas (the "CSI" franchise, "Cold Case," "Numb3rs"), but none of them were nominated in the major categories. Seems odd to me. I guess CBS put all its Emmy power behind "Two and a Half Men." (Yes, I'm still angry about that.)

I am actually looking forward to the big show in September. Here's hoping my favorites win ...

Oooh, next year another favorite o' mine can enter the fray -- "State of Mind," starring the fantastic Lili Taylor.

Happy TV viewing ...

Lazy, hazy days of summer

2007-06-05T18:20:00.000-07:00

The summer TV doldrums are here ... but not for long.

"Studio 60" delivered a powerful episode last week, and I am looking forward to what its final episodes bring.

I'm guessing "The Sopranos" goes out with a bang on Sunday.

And then Brenda Leigh Johnson returns on "The Closer" on June 18. Hot damn. Thank yeeeew.

I'm not interested in the summer reality shows. Don't need Hasselhoff or Springer or pirates.

But I will try to catch up on the episodes of "Cold Case" and "Medium" I missed, and I have a co-worker who's begging me to watch "NCIS."

Why did I get a Netflix membership? ; )

But the one downer of summer -- and fall: I miss "Lost." I can't believe I have to wait till 2008 to see it again!

Happy. Sad. "Studio 60."

2007-05-25T00:11:00.001-07:00

"Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip" returned to TV tonight to air its final episodes.

I was so happy to have it back.

But I know it's been canceled.

I miss it already.

It's brilliant. It's witty. It's well acted. The pacing is incredible.

I text-messaged my friend Dusti throughout the episode, as I knew she was curled up in front of her TV in Olympia and tuned in to Channel 5. As tonight's episode ended, I sent her this note:

"Why oh why is this show being canceled?"

Her response:

"Not enough viewers are as smart as you and me! :-)"

Be smart, people. Watch "Studio 60" while you can.

Ruling reality TV

2007-05-22T23:31:00.000-07:00

It's a big week for the Seattle area in the land of reality TV. Local folks have come out strong in reality-show finales ...

* Bevin Powers, an Issaquah High School graduate, was the runner up on "The Bachelor." (I was rooting for Tessa. Nothing against my Northwest peeps, but Bevin seemed whiny and fake. Her rant in the limo after getting dumped irked me. She needs some self-esteem help.)

* Apolo Anton Ohno of Federal Way just captured the mirror ball trophy on "Dancing With the Stars." YAY!!!!! I voted for Apolo. He was a natural. He never got cocky, and he just performed like a pro. Way to go!

* Blake Lewis of Bothell is duking it out against Jordin Sparks for the "American Idol" crown. I find it interesting that Jordin and Blake are the final two. All the criticism about the lousy Seattle auditions at the start of the "Idol" season made it look like we really sucked. Well, guess what? Both Blake and Jordin auditioned in Seattle. So there.

What's funny about this post is that I watch neither "American Idol" or "The Bachelor." For some reason, though, on Monday night I found myself glued to "The Bachelor" finale. I will not be watching the "Idol" finale Wednesday because it's season finale time for my fave show, "Lost." Oooh, so excited.

The Husband and I will have to plan a special meal for the festivities, maybe a good dessert. I plan on being parked on the sofa from 9 to 11 with my phone at my hip to call Noreen during the commercials. She's my best "Lost" pal. We'll have Little G watching soon enough.

I'm dying to hear your "Lost" predictions. So far, I'm still believing in what lostfan108 posted online last week ... We'll see. Just a few hours away ...

Must-see TV ... with Kleenex

2007-05-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

I spent Friday talking TV with several of my co-workers.

Consensus: Thursday was a depressing night of TV, except for “The Office.”

My rants for the day …

“Grey’s Anatomy”? Every character was sad by the end of the episode. They all lost something important to them. It was completely uninspirational. The Husband said the episode made him angry.

What frustrates me more than anything is that Meredith and Derek – who profess such unending love for one another to everyone but each other – can’t find 10 frickin’ minutes of happiness. Can we please just have them be silly and flirty and madly in love for a couple episodes? It’s beginning to hack me off.

And PUH-LEEZE don’t let Derek stir things up with Meredith’s half-sister. Yuck.

Oh, and the other thing that gets me: A few months ago Izzie was still weepy over and pining for Denny. She was a wreck. And now, suddenly, she’s MADLY in love with George. And she tells George this every time she can. It’s disturbing. I am really beginning to loathe Izzie, and I have zero sympathy for her.

“ER.” A depressing hour of television. Ray missing his legs? Oh. My. Gosh. My stomach climbed into my throat. Sad that Shane West is leaving. He’s a terrific actor. Fell in love with him on “Once & Again.”

Then that Katie girl who wanted nothing to do with Ray two weeks ago? Hate her. Neela was already feeling bad, why compound it?

Sarah’s grandparents showing up to take her away? Ugh. The pain in the episode was completely overwhelming.

But I do LOVE Stanley Tucci. He’s an amazing actor, and I sure hope he stays around “ER.”

The success of Thursday night was “The Office.” I felt a rush of emotions at the end when Jim came in and asked Pam to dinner. I said to my husband, “I know that feeling.” I think a lot of women know that feeling.

Dwight as the manager? Fantastic. Genius. As much a Dwight irritates the crap out of the staff, he would be a better overall manager than Michael. And I would like some Schrute Bucks, please.

Oh, I am still laughing about Creed (http://blog.nbc.com/CreedThoughts/). And Ryan (aka “The Temp”) telling Kelly it’s over. And Michael selling his condo for 80 percent of what he paid on eBay.

For all the uncomfortable “Office” moments, there are twice as many of pure freakin’ genius.

BTW, Jenna Fischer, the woman who plays Pam, fell down a flight of stairs, fracturing her back. She did not hurt her spine and will return to the series when taping begins this summer.

OK ... Back to the Monday grind. Haven't compiled my thoughts yet about "Desperate Housewives."

Let "Christine" live!

2007-05-15T17:53:00.000-07:00

I heard a nasty rumor about CBS's fall lineup.

"New Adventures of Old Christine" won't be on it.

It's getting a 13-episode renewal and will probably be used as a midseason replacement.

Ugh.

You'd imagine that a series whose star won an Emmy last fall should get a big, fat renewal. Grrrr.

I hope what I heard is just a rumor and, when CBS announces its schedule tomorrow, my fears will be allayed.

Good news, though, is "How I Met Your Mother" is safe, and Robin, Ted, Barney, Marshall and Lily (and the voice of Bob Saget) will return in the fall.

The Husband is pulling for "Jericho," but I heard the stars of that show aren't even sure what the future holds for them yet. Not even a hint from CBS. Yikes.

I love the spoilers, I hate the spoilers ...

2007-05-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

I’ve been reading “spoilers” about the “Lost” season finale, and there is one out there that appears to be accurate from a “Lost” insider. If it is true, it will blow your mind.

It’s so good that I wish I hadn’t read it. I will miss the element of surprise ...

Anyway, the “blow your mind” part that I read happens in next week’s episode (May 23). Sounds like, no matter what, we’re in for a complicated, thrilling finale (with five deaths).

If you want to know what’s being reported/spoiled, go here:

http://spoilerslost.blogspot.com/

Go to the May 15, 2007, post, and click on the “Read Major Spoilers” button.

NOTE: Do this only if you want to know a freakin’ major plot twist. It could ruin the next two weeks for you. (Or, of course, it could be a total hoax by some jackass.)

Ripe for conspiracy

2007-05-13T23:46:00.000-07:00

I just found out that the woman who played Ben's mom on "Lost" is, in real life, the wife of Michael Emerson -- the guy who plays Ben. How hilariously weird is that?!?!

'Friday Night Lights' wins renewal

2007-05-11T11:48:00.000-07:00

Just read on the news wire that the low-rated but critically acclaimed "Friday Night Lights" will return in the fall. NBC gave it a full 22-episode season.

NBC is expected to announced its fall lineup on Monday.

I know that my beloved "Medium" will be back, and "SVU" is the only "Law & Order" franchise that's renewed for sure. NBC has already given the green light to "30 Rock," "My Name is Earl" and "The Office," and I am 99 percent sure "ER" got the thumbs-up, too.

"Las Vegas" must've got renewed, since the news is out there that Tom Selleck will replace James Caan next season.

Yeah, next week is a big week in TV land. I'm hoping NBC gives a go-ahead to more "Studio 60," but that's looking so unlikely. I wish networks gave shows more time to build audiences these days. The advent of the midseason replacement has really hurt a lot of quality shows that never had a chance to find an audience.

Other than "Studio 60," the shows I'm worried about aren't on NBC. I really hope CBS lets "Old Christine" and "How I Met Your Mother" live on. Really. Truly. Those are among my favorites.

I'm obviously not worried about "Lost" or "Desperate Housewives" or "Dancing With the Stars." I've heard that if "Scrubs" gets scrapped ABC will take it. I think "Cold Case" is safe.

But hurray for "Friday Night Lights." I have never watched it, but I have at least one co-worker who LOVES it. It was fun to get to tell him that it was renewed. Got a big "YES!" from him.

More on renewals next week.

The end is near

2007-05-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

I love "Lost," and I am really happy that the producers and ABC have come to terms about an end for the series. It would be terrible to be sitting around in six years with new Others, none of the original Losties and writers trying to keep the show interesting. So, goodbye "Lost" ... in 2010.

Want to read the whole story? Go to The News Tribune's TV News section at www.thenewstribune.com/ae/tv.

Now I can't wait to see how this season ends ...

NBC sees more 'Medium' in its future

2007-05-08T14:07:00.000-07:00

Good news from Zap2it.com:

NBC announced Monday that it’s picking up the drama series for the 2007-08 season, which will let star Patricia Arquette and everyone else associated with the show breathe a little easier headed into next week’s upfronts. The show had been considered on the bubble for renewal.

“ 'Medium’ is a quality show with an outstanding star that has always delivered a very loyal audience,” NBC chief Kevin Reilly says. “We are pleased to know that we can look forward to more of its unique storytelling next year under executive producer Glenn Gordon Caron’s superb creative vision.”

The series is the seventh NBC has picked up for next year; the others are “Heroes,” “Law & Order: SVU,” “Las Vegas,” “30 Rock,” “My Name Is Earl” and “The Office.” The network will also have Sunday-night NFL games once again in the fall.

At least he doesn't have that mullet ...

2007-05-01T23:37:00.000-07:00

Can someone please explain how Billy Ray Cyrus is still on "Dancing With the Stars"?

Just how strong is the "Hannah Montana" lobby?

Sheesh.

"An Unsuspecting Wife"

2007-04-28T12:18:00.000-07:00

What's kept me glued to the TV the past couple nights?

KOMO-TV's interview with Judith Ridgway, wife of Green River Killer Gary Ridgway. Fascinating stuff for a girl who grew up in the area during the Killer's heyday.

Back to enjoying my sunny Saturday!

The dish on "Desperate Housewives"

2007-04-26T12:05:00.000-07:00

Do not read this if you don't want to know what's going to happen on "Desperate Housewives." These are some serious spoilers from MediaWeek.

"Two main characters on ABC's 'Desperate Housewives' will be walking down the aisle. Teri Hatcher's Susan will marry James Denton's Mike, and Eva Longoria's saucy Gaby is rushing into a big wedding extravaganza with just-elected mayor Victor. But all, unfortunately, is not well on Wisteria Lane: Lynette (Felicity Huffman) finds out she has cancer and Mike's shady brother Terry moves in, which opens the door to a new mystery to solve in 2007-08. Bree fans will be happy to know that the hostess extraordinaire will be back for the season finale on May 20."

By the way ...

2007-04-25T00:25:00.000-07:00

Hey, "October Road" writers, we don’t care about Aubrey.

Thought I'd get that out there before Thursday's episode.

A big-time request to CBS

2007-04-24T10:47:00.000-07:00

I am hearing serious rumors that either “The New Adventures of Old Christine” or “How I Met Your Mother” will be canceled by CBS.

This is not acceptable.

These are two of the best sitcoms on TV. They are leaps and bounds better than CBS’s other sitcom offerings, particularly “Rules of Engagement” and “Two and a Half Men.”

“Christine” and “Mother” are funny and clever and don’t resort to potty humor and constant sex jokes to entertain.

Please, CBS, don’t cancel these shows. Both have stellar ensemble casts; Julia Louis-Dreyfus might be the funniest woman on TV. Neil Patrick Harris has finally shaken “Doogie” and become a pop-culture icon with “Suit up!”

I hope CBS gives these shows a good, hard look and spares them. I love “Christine” and “Mother.” I haven’t been a big fan of the traditional 30-minute sitcom in quite some time. And now I have these two shows. In a time when America needs to laugh, these shows do the trick.

Coming soon: A request to NBC to save “Studio 60,” “Medium” and “Scrubs.” (Sadly, "Andy Barker" has already been given the boot.)

Turn off the TV? What?!?!

2007-04-23T08:47:00.000-07:00

It's National Turn Off the TV Week.

Yeah, not gonna happen for me.

Discovered a great new site yesterday for TV news, gossip and spoilers. It's BuddyTV. If you love TV, you ought to check it out.

"Lost": Of Biblical proportions

2007-04-19T10:25:00.000-07:00

OK, so I didn't watch "Lost" last night. The Husband and I were in Seattle seeing a free sneak preview of "Fracture" and having dinner at Il Fornaio. (I recommend both.)

Anyway, my "Lost"-fan co-worker came over to ask me what the parachutist said at the end of the episode. I didn't know, so I decided to Google. Well, that led me to this story from Entertainment Weekly, which had a doozy of a theory. I like it. Read on ...

The noodle cooker: Ruth and Naomi In "Catch 22," the characters Ruth and Naomi have nothing to do with each other. But in The Bible, they are the stars of the Book of Ruth. Well, it just so happens that the book right before Ruth is the Book of Judges. The very last story in the Book of Judges is the story of a war among the tribes of Israel. The bad guy in this story: the Tribe of Benjamin. The war started over a murder that the other tribes believed needed to be avenged; it ended with the near-obliteration ("The Purge," perhaps?) of the Benjaminites. Here's where it gets creepy: In the aftermath, the people of Israel felt badly about wiping out Benjamin's people. So they decided to repopulate his tribe by forcing the women from another city to join the tribe of Benjamin. You know: to make babies and stuff.

Baby, if you’ve ever wondered ...

2007-04-19T10:24:00.000-07:00

So, with much glee, I learned that the first season of “WKRP in Cincinnati” is coming out on DVD Tuesday. Oh, yes, so giddy. A rockin’ dose of Herb and Johnny and Venus and Bailey and Jennifer and Mr. Carlson and Andy and Les.

I didn’t know I felt so strongly about “WKRP.” But, heck, I do! Bring it on!

And then I saw this story move on the news wire. And my heart sank.

'WKRP' Without the Music
By Diane Werts
Newsday

The show they thought would never come to DVD actually comes to DVD next week.
And all the reasons they thought it would never arrive may actually be good reasons why it shouldn’t be here now.
“WKRP in Cincinnati” was a late-1970s rock radio comedy filled with, shock of shocks, actual rock songs. Foreigner’s “Hot Blooded” provided the punchline when bland newsman Les Nessman (Richard Sanders) donned a “hip” curly wig for a date with sexy station receptionist Jennifer (Loni Anderson). Pink Floyd’s “Dogs” spun on the turntable as square boss Arthur Carlson (Gordon Jump) tried to discern what strange song zoned-out DJ Johnny Fever (Howard Hesseman) was playing.
Note the past tense.
None of those songs makes it onto the first-season DVD set coming Tuesday from Fox Home Entertainment. Every episode has had music replaced, and in places where a song was integral to a scene, footage has been trimmed out. (See a list of changes at http://zvbxrpl.blogspot.com/2007/03/wkrp-dvd-not-ok.html.
The blame for what “WKRP” diehards decry as a travesty lies with, your choice:
A. Music licensing costs, skyrocketing as composers/performers/anybody with a hand in the till tries to make a buck from the supposed pot o’ gold in TV DVD sales.
B. Greedy corporations, unconcerned with preserving the integrity of a show, taking the easiest/cheapest path toward throwing product onto store shelves.
C. Consumers prizing low prices above all else, making even well-intentioned distributors figure it’s not worth shelling out to license original music if it means the set costs more.
Any or all answers might be apt. “It’s the kind of a situation that Fox couldn’t really win with,” says Gord Lacey, whose authoritative TV Shows on DVD Web site was recently incorporated into TV Guide’s online domain. “They either release the show with music substitutions,” Lacey says, “or they don’t release it at all.”
During “WKRP’s” original 1978-82 CBS run, the rights to the rock songs it played would have been licensed for TV series broadcast. Retaining the rights to those songs in new digital media means relicensing their use. And that means getting permission from everyone involved.
While fans like to blame DVD distributors’ greed, “sometimes people simply won’t license (the use of) their songs” at all, Lacey says. Or they demand fees exorbitant enough to drastically hike DVD costs. NBC’s cult fave “Freaks and Geeks,” for instance, was released with its many ’80s pop songs intact — but the 18-episode set had a list price of $70, at least $10 more than most drama sets of 22-plus episodes. “With other shows,” Lacey says, “they can’t even clear the theme song.”
Are those crucial losses? Maybe not. Are the “WKRP” songs? Maybe.
“WKRP” diehards are livid, filling online message boards with invective and vows to boycott what they consider a bastardized release.
They might note, however, that series creator Hugh Wilson acknowledges in the DVD’s pilot commentary that music was replaced because it cost so much. Wilson later says in commentary for the classic “Turkeys Away” episode that he finds the substitutions “pretty good. I don’t mind those music replacements.”
Well, sure. He’s probably busy admiring the scripts he wrote and the actors he cast, both of which hold up remarkably well.
Could Fox have done it differently? If it had licensed even a couple of joke-essential songs, say “Hot Blooded” and “Dogs,” fans might not have gotten quite so worked up. Suppose Fox had spent so much to license music that it raised the price from $40 to $50. Would that have cut into DVD sales? The first seasons of “Scrubs” and “Home Improvement” came out listed at $50. But most sitcoms of the “WKRP” vintage list for less.
At least the catchy “WKRP” theme song (“Baby, if you’ve ever wondered/Wondered whatever became of me”) is there at the start of every episode.
Thank God Hugh Wilson wrote it.

The Sisters discuss "Lost"

2007-04-13T15:18:00.000-07:00

From an e-mail transaction between my "Lost"-addicted sister Noreen and me. Noreen's comments are in italics:

Danielle is special. Or maybe she is an Other? (I don’t think that she is.) Are we sure she gave birth on the island? Maybe Alex was a baby when she and her parents ended up there.
She was 7 months pregnant when they got off course. She claims to have delivered the baby, but was only with her one week before “they” came and took her.

And where the hell is Rousseau? Where did she run off to?
I don’t know where she is, but I am confident she has some ‘splaining to do. I think there are some answers to be mined.

Are we sure Ben has cancer? Did we ever biopsy the tumor? And I think Ben said something about being born on the island ... Maybe not.
We are NOT sure Ben had cancer, just a tumor. Ben did say he was born on the island. I think that’s important.

I gather the Others aren’t part of Dharma. The original Dharma people, from what I’m hearing, are actually living underground somehow. Maybe Rousseau was with the original Dharma project.

Others are BAD, Dharma was GOOD. I am sure those are the factions at war.
It’s hard to say who’s who. Dharma still makes food drops and there are plenty of Dharma jumpsuits. I believe they are warring factions, but I am not sure who came from whom.

What kills me is that Ben and Juliet roamed the island freely without being noticed. They just popped on down to Mikhail’s. Like going next door.
They roamed freely before 815 crashed. They had a whole different life. They still worried Mikhail might shoot them, but there wasn’t the pretense or secrecy. Mikhail was in a clean jumpsuit and looked fine when Ben and Juliet popped by, but was dirty looking for the Losties visit. It’s all orchestrated. I think that they had more “freedom” before the crash because they weren’t putting on the show. It’s all a little crazy. For instance, how does Juliet know what Sawyer did the night before he got on the plane? No one knows this information, right? We saw the flashback, but he hasn’t confessed it to anyone in detail. So, that means he was being closely surveiled BEFORE he got on the plane. Just like how Rachel (Juliet’s sister) was being watched.

And, yes, Ben arranged who was on that plane. Most definitely. Pregnant teen. Spinal surgeon. The good-hearted (but somewhat gullible) Locke. (If you think about it, Locke got reeled into a cult once before.)
Ben is ready for action when that plane crashes and he knows just what he’s after. He made some arrangement, but I cannot for the life of me figure out how they are going to explain that.

Juliet might not be a Lostie or an Other at heart. You’re right: She might just be out for herself. I think she really does want off that island. She wants to be with her sister and nephew. Maybe she thinks infiltrating the survivors will help her curry favor with Ben.
I agree she wants off the island.

WHAT DO THEY WANT WITH THE SURVIVORS? That’s my biggest question.
Do we think they want Sun and that’s why they are trying to get into the camp now? She’s preggers and we are not 100% sure if this is an island conception or an off-island one. So, she’s worth experimenting with. They really want to figure out how to make babies on this island.

Juliet and Goodwin? That was awesome. Ethan gives me the willies. Why would Juliet go with them after they admitted to tranquilizing her drink?
Juliet and Goodwin was about as racy as the show gets. Maybe that partial nudity comes with the 10 p.m. timeslot. Very interesting. I wonder how pissed Juliet was an Ana Lucia for killing Goodwin, and I wonder how excited she was when Ana Lucia got killed by Michael.

Really random thoughts ...

2007-04-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry. I haven't been too inspired to write.

"ER" was so blasé and predictable last night. And it's hard for me to feel excited about Luka and Abby getting married when I know it ain't gonna happen. Goran Visnjic is probably leaving the show, which means he won't marry Abby -- or Abby won't marry him.

And I'm still recovering from "Lost." I don't even know what to write. We got some answers, and we know we're in for an exciting ride in the last few episodes of the season. (What did Ben mean when he said, "We'll see you in a week" to Juliet? Will there be a war, an invasion, more deaths? OK, I know from spoiler sites that we're gonna have more death.) I could use a good dose of Rousseau; where is she? I hear we're getting a flashback about her, so that means she'll be back. Woo-hoo! And all my lost fans and I agree: Bring us more Sayid. He's so intense. He is always intriguing when he's on screen. (The Husband reports that Naveen Andrews, the guy who plays Sayid, was terrific in "Grindhouse.")

I did love "The Office" last night; I love Dwight and Jim and Pam, but I really just want to throttle Michael. Is he just that stupid and oblivious? Ay-yi-yi.

I didn't watch "Notes from the Underbelly." Did you? What should I know? Is it worth my time? Or is it really as clichéd as it appears?

I probably shouldn't start watching a new show on Thursdays. My schedule is overflowing. It makes me desperately want TiVo.

We got some new shows coming up: "Hustle" returns on AMC; "Drive" debuts Sunday night on Fox. "Heroes" comes back next week. Jaclyn Smith returned to TV this week with "Shear Genius" on Bravo. And PBS has got The New York Times food writer hosting "The Best Recipes in the World."

And Shia LaBeouf is hosting "Saturday Night Live" tomorrow. Strange choice. Oh well.

I'm scouring the news wire to find interesting TV news for you.

* "Medium," one of my faves, has got a request for six more scripts. That's a good sign; might mean NBC will bring it back next season. Pleasepleasepleasepleaseplease.

* Julie Bowen went into labor on the set of "Boston Legal." I don't watch "Legal," but I know Bowen from "Ed," "Lost" and a host of TV guest appearances.

* Sounds like Tom Selleck will be joining the cast of "Las Vegas." James Caan is reportedly leaving, and Magnum might be taking his place ... I'd rather have him back as Magnum, but it's great that he's willing to do TV again.

* Somehow Sanjaya is still on "Idol." Whatever.

* Leeza Gibbons is gone from "Dancing With the Stars."

* "Andy Barker, P.I." is moving to Saturdays. That means, of course, that its days are limited. So sad for Andy Richter. He deserves some TV success. And "Barker" is a laugh riot. I can't believe more people didn't watch this show. Definitely looks like Andy and his hilarious gang won't be on NBC's fall schedule.

* The future is bleak, too, for "The Black Donnellys."

* "Friday Night Lights" still has some kick left in it. NBC hasn't made a decision about its future. One of my co-workers is cheering hard for our boys from Texas.

In the meantime, several of my co-workers are wondering why we're still watching "Desperate Housewives." There's no mystery right now (unless you count whether or not Mike and Susan will reunite as a mystery). Everything seems a little bland. We don't really care about Gaby and her mayoral candidate boyfriend. We need that British guy to take a hike. I miss Bree and creepy Orson and hilarious Andrew. The show is neither funny nor thrilling anymore. I would KILL for Mrs. Huber's sister to come back. She is fabulous. And how badly did Lynn Redgrave need a paycheck that she played such a lame part on "DH"?

I hear "The Sopranos" ratings were down, but the season premiere still came in at No. 1 on the cable Nielsens. (Sorry, SpongeBob and WWE Raw.)

What else? What else? What do you want to know about? If I think of something, I'll let you know.

Happy Friday!

Oh, Canada -- Thanks for Dave Foley

2007-04-10T11:36:00.000-07:00

I love Dave Foley.

He adds something special to TV. He has a fine TV comedy pedigree: "Kids in the Hall," "Newsradio," "Scrubs."

And last night, we got double the Dave.

He was on "New Adventures of Old Christine," one of my very favorite shows. (I was laughing out loud last night.)

And then Dave was the judge on "Thank God You're Here," which I find to be an excellent addition to the TV lineup. (I mean, c'mon, any show that puts Edie McClurg on TV gets props from me.)

I love Dave Foley. And if my sister Noreen is reading, she knows the song I am thinking: "These are the Daves I know, I know ... These are the Daves I know!"

I had a blast watching TV last night, not just because of Dave. It was a really strong night of comedy. I was laughing a lot and laughing heartily. I almost didn't miss "Studio 60." (Oh, wait: I always miss "Studio 60.")

The cast dynamic on "How I Met Your Mother" is incredible. Think the sitcom is dead? Watch this show. Watch Neil Patrick Harris. Watch the actors banter. You will chuckle. It's not a stereotypical laugh-track sitcom. It's clever and smart and sincere. Enjoy.

And then there's my beloved "Christine." It makes me howl. Julia Louis-Dreyfus is a hoot. She is a queen of comedy. Then add Wanda Sykes. Oh, I laugh and laugh. And then add the stud factor of Blair Underwood. The show has it all -- plus great guest stars like Dave Foley and Jane Lynch.

I had to do some channel-flipping between "Dancing With the Stars" and "Thank God You're Here." Celebs in sequins or incredible improv? Gotta have a little of both.

Looks like my boy Clyde the Glide isn't going to last long on "Dancing," but Laila Ali sure can dance. And I'm liking Joey Fatone a little bit more ...

As for "Thank God," some people are truly gifted at improv. Bryan Cranston was phenomenal, as was the aforementioned Ms. McClurg. Joel McHale of "The Soup" (and a former star of Seattle's own "Almost Live!") was terrific, and comedienne Mo'Nique brought her sassiness to the stage, too.

I am looking forward to another few rounds of "Thank God You're Here."

And I love Dave Foley.

Observations from Thursday night

2007-04-06T12:54:00.000-07:00

Two guys from "Arrested Development" being on NBC sitcoms on the same night? Fan-freakin'-tastic. It was heaven. Will Arnett and Tony Hale crack me up. Now, let's get Jason Bateman back on TV.

I do not like when "Scrubs" makes me cry. (Rest in peace, Laverne.)

Was John Krasinski wearing a wig on "The Office" last night?

"October Road": Please, ABC, do not cancel this show. I am beginning to get attached to these characters.

What will I do in two weeks when "ER" and "October Road" are on at the same time?

I cannot get over the talent on "The Office." While I often cringe and scream "No!!!" while watching the show, I can't turn away. The writing and acting are pure genius. Last night was no exception.

Sucked in by the sequins ...

2007-04-03T15:05:00.000-07:00

I'm at a loss about who to root for on "Dancing with the Stars."

At the outset, I was all about Clyde "The Glide" Drexler. Well, sadly, he's not very good, and he's not getting better. I want him to succeed, but he's making it hard to be a Clyde fan.

The teenager who dwells deep within and fondly recalls "90210 nights" with her friends, is cheering for Ian Ziering. I've been working hard on silencing her, especially because Ziering danced with the male strippers last night. (Look, teenage Kate, Steve Sanders was not the "hot" one on "90210." He wasn't even in the top 3 hotties. Do NOT cheer for him.)

Then there's my Northwest native, Apolo Anton Ohno, who wowed me last night with his "Pulp Fiction" jive. I like him. I'd love to see him linger on the show awhile. It has nothing to do with attractiveness. I'd just prefer that his talents represent the I-5 corridor rather than Sanjaya's on "Idol."

I figure Joey Fatone's a shoo-in to win. Pretty much every *NSYNC fan has a cell phone, home phone and three e-mail accounts. Each of those fans will use each outlet s/he has available to cast the maximum 10 votes per phone line and e-mail account. No matter how dorky his J.F.-emblazoned outfits are or how much his butt sticks out, the guy's a shoo-in. I can here the teen girls screaming now. (And, FYI, I much preferred Mr. Fatone's work in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" to his *NSYNC portfolio.)

But I am leaning toward being a Laila Ali fan 'cause she's an amazing dancer. I'm not even sure she should count as an amateur. How can you even compare Laila with Billy Ray Cyrus or Leeza Gibbons? Good Lord. Like her father, Laila floats like a butterfly. And she's gorgeous. And elegant. And funny. Yep, I'm hoping Laila takes home the glittery trophy.

I hope that Shandi chick gets the boot tonight. I find her and her partner rather annoying.

But the most annoying part of the show? The judges saying they wouldn't give Heather Mills preferential treatment because she has one leg. However, every time they critique her work, they say how great she is for someone with one leg. PLEASE, just judge her like you judge every other dancer. I thought her jive last night was awful and uninteresting, but she was among the high scorers. Egad.

Then again, I don't know what the judges were high on last night: Leeza Gibbons and her partner danced the MOST BORING tango (insert snoring here) and got excellent marks. The Husband and I were baffled.

Oh, one more thing: Did you see/feel the disdain Achy Breaky Cyrus' partner has for him? Wow. Karina might be an excellent dancer, but she's a horrible actress.

OK, closet "Dancing" fans, who are you cheering for and why? And who are you hoping takes a bad spill on the hardwoods?

I'm sorry: What year is it?

2007-04-02T10:41:00.000-07:00

Hanson? The best "Deal or No Deal" could do was Hanson?

I was surprised that a 26-year-old married woman would get up on the stage at "DOND" and declare her love of Hanson.

And then the producers trotted the "MMMBop" boys out? Wow.

That's all I can muster. Wow. Although last night I laughed out loud numerous times.

Wow.

But after the weirdness of "Deal or No Deal," we watched my beloved "Cold Case." That show makes me cry every time. I don't know why, but at the end of every episode, I weep like a baby.

Can't believe it's April. Here's to some good TV coming back this week. I've had enough of reruns and recap shows -- and "Deal or No Deal."

Diff’rent strokes to rule the world

2007-03-30T16:23:00.000-07:00

Favorite TV-related things I’ve seen lately from Zap2it.com. (The headlines and end commentary are mine.)

BRING ON ANOTHER ‘BACHELOR’
One’s a former Miss Illinois. One is a lawyer who’s also a bodybuilder. And one, we’re promised, will sing “The Star-Spangled Banner” to a guy in the first episode.
They, and 22 other women, are among those who will be competing for the love of one Andy Baldwin on the new edition of “The Bachelor,” which premieres next week.
Subtitled “Officer and a Gentleman,” the 10th edition of the show will feature Baldwin, a 30-year-old doctor and lieutenant in the U.S. Navy, surrounded by 25 women who all, presumably, want love to lift them up where they belong. The show debuts at 9:45 p.m. Monday.
Per usual, the festivities begin with the women arriving in limousines. Unlike past “Bachelors,” though, Baldwin is tasked with giving a rose to one of them as soon as she says hello. Hijinks naturally ensue; ABC notes that Linda, the aforementioned bodybuilder, challenges Baldwin (a veteran triathlete) to a push-up contest, while another bachelorette, Stephanie W., does backflips in an evening gown. Ten of the women go home the first night, with one really not happy about it.

WHAT YOU TALKIN’ BOUT, WILLIS?
Unlike other troubled former child stars, Todd Bridges would like the public to know that he’s clean, sober and very much alive.
Like comedian Sinbad just over a week before, Bridges has found himself contradicting rumors that he has died, reports People.
Apparently, on a New York radio station, a report about a truck driver named Shawn Bridges who had a drug problem and eventually died after a long illness got mixed up with the actor’s life. Rumors began flying on a gossip Web site that Todd Bridges had died of a drug-related death.
This left Bridges reassuring his wife, sister and other friends and family members that he was still among the living.
“There were all these calls about it, and for a half an hour no one could reach me,” he says. “I was in (electronics store) Fry’s shopping, and I had my cell phone on silent. I am just glad that my kid never heard it.”
The “Diff’rent Strokes” alum admits that he used to have a drug problem, but he’s been sober for the last 14 years. The 41-year-old actor has been enjoying a career revival. He recently competed on Fox’s “Skating With Celebrities” and has a recurring guest role on the CW’s “Everybody Hates Chris” as a quirky war veteran who is a merchant at the corner store.

(OK, everyone now: "Now, the world don't move to the beat of just one drum, what might be right for you might not be right for some ..." That Alan Thicke is a genius.)

"The Bachelor's" "Officer and a Gentleman" thing is REALLY corny. And my Army veteran husband is miffed that on ABC's ads, Andy "The Bachelor" Baldwin is referred to as a soldier. Not a solider, folks. Navy boys aren't soldiers. Oh well. But, that probably won't keep me from watching. Wow, I can't believe I just admitted that publicly. (And I'm not hitting the delete button.)

Yikes.

OK, so no "Grey's" chat today

2007-03-30T14:36:00.000-07:00

Rerun? A "Grey’s Anatomy" rerun?

Ugh.

But it’s OK. It let me catch up with “Andy Barker, P.I.” and watch “The Office” marathon.

Andy Barker P.I.: Andy Richter is hilarious, and I am happy Tony Hale is back on TV. I loved the retro’70s feel of it. It’s comedy meets “The Rockford Files.” God bless Conan O’Brien.

I wish the show didn’t compete with “Grey’s.”

And “The Office” kills me. I laugh, I scream, I cringe. Rainn Wilson is incredible. I love Dwight with the concussion. Glad we got three episodes of “The Office” last night.

I also watched “October Road.” I’ll admit it: I really like this show. Nick seems like a guy I’d wanna be friends with. (Jesus, what does that say about me?) And the romance between the pizza girl and Physical Phil was so sweet. I hope this show gets renewed, although I’m not sure how long they can keep the Hannah-Nick tension going. Maybe it’s meant to be a short-run series. But I like it. And I like seeing Laura Prepon on TV. (“That ‘70s Show” is a favorite for me – and not just because I know one of the writers.)

The next few days have a lot going on:

* “The Shield” returns on Tuesday. While I know it’s a great show, and I avidly watched the first season, I’m not that into it anymore. It got too violent for me. If I do put it on again, it’ll be to see CCH Pounder as the captain. That woman is an incredible actress. (OK, and I'd watch 'cause Forest Whitaker is a guest star.)
* “The Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards” airs Saturday. I won’t be watching this, but I understand that millions and millions of people will. Justin Timberlake is hosting. Does that seem weird to anyone else? I gather Nickelodeon still relies a lot on green slime and burping. It’s nice to see that some things never change.
* I wish I had Showtime so I could watch “Fired!” There are two things that appeal to me about it: 1. David Cross is involved. 2. All of the news stories I’ve read mention that the show’s host, Annabelle Gurwitch, got fired by Woody Allen after he called her performance in his play “Writer’s Block” “retarded.” Can you imagine being called “retarded” by Woody Allen? Priceless. It’s airs at 8:30 p.m. Saturday on Showtime and has tons of vignettes from celebrities about being fired from jobs.
* “Top Design” on Bravo airs its season finale on Wednesday. I know so little about this program. I know Todd Oldham is involved. That’s about it.
* Baseball season begins. The Seattle Mariners season-opener begins at 3:35 p.m. Tuesday. I love baseball. I’m going to have to figure out how to watch my Mariners while seeing my fave TV shows. It might be time to invest in TiVo.
* “The Tudors.” Henry VIII gets all sexed up for Showtime. Yeah, for real. It premieres Sunday.

And in more-than-a-week-off news, I am looking forward to this “Thank God You’re Here” show on NBC. It looks like it might be an entertaining improv show with some fun stars. And it won’t mean another hour that NBC fills with “Deal or No Deal” or “Identity” or “1 vs. 100.” But this is one we’ll have to wait and see about …

My happy moment for the day: There was one blueberry scone left this morning at my Starbucks – my Starbucks that never has blueberry scones. Great way to start the morning. (I actually got pulled over by a cop this morning before I had my coffee. But I didn’t get a ticket. The officer just wanted me to know one of my headlights was out. Thanks, officer … for getting me into a panic for 10 seconds.)

Anyway, happy Friday. Enjoy your TV adventures this weekend.

Oh. My. "Lost."

2007-03-29T01:09:00.000-07:00

Oh.

My.

Gawd.

Did you watch "Lost" tonight?

One of the creepiest death scenes ever.

I thought it was bad when one-eyed man Mikhail was electrocuted a few weeks back, but tonight ... Gah. The spiders. The sand. Oh, the sand.

Felt almost like an episode of "The Twilight Zone."

But we got some good info -- and I once again had to wonder: Why are the people on this island not TALKING TO EACH OTHER?!?!?

Paolo: Um, hey, I was in this hatch, and some people came in. Pretty sure they're Others.

Jack/Locke/Sawyer/Anyone who will listen: Another hatch? With people?

Paolo: Oh, yes, and video monitors. Oh, and I picked up this walkie-talkie they left behind.

Anyone who will listen: Wha?!?!

Paolo: And there was a toilet with running water!

Anyone who will listen: Well, what did these people say?

Paolo: They want to get inside Jack's head. They have something they want him to do. And they mentioned something about taking "Ford and Austen" and Jack hostage.

I could go on and on about the nonsense. But because I am a "Lost" junkie, I'm all about suspension of disbelief.

Like word wouldn't get around to the crash survivors that, hey, some guy who allegedly crash-landed here is being held hostage in the hatch. And Paolo, perhaps, has seen the dude before! (Oh, wait, Paolo wasn't on last season.)

OK, OK ... Enough of my plausibility rants. Tonight's "Lost" did kick butt. We got some interesting information, lots of character development, good interaction among the survivors and, of course, a little Billy Dee Williams. Loved seeing Shannon and Boone and Artz again. Ethan still gives me the friggin' willies. And just how many times do we need to see the scene of the guy getting sucked into the plane engine?!?

Thought it was interesting that Juliet and Ben could just roam around the jungle so nonchalantly. Hmmm. I guess wearing those weird costumes will help them if survivors spot them.

And Artz's bugs? New species? Just what the heck is going on on that island?!?!?

But the death scene tonight. Ick. I might have nightmares about choking or suffocating.

Next week looks like we get a Kate vs. Juliet fight. Whoa. (Sun showed some grrrl power tonight, though. Nice slap!)

I read on SpoilerFix.com that there will be three deaths by the end of the season. I don't know if that counts tonight's fatalities. Charlie? Claire? Ben? Jin? Any guesses?

(Oh, "American Idol" had a fatality tonight, too. Poor Chris Sligh. I liked him. He has character and talent. Definitely more than Sanjaya. But Chris has a lisp and "bringing chubby back" doesn't work for everyone. Oh well. Godspeed, Chris. Maybe Sanjaya will get the boot next week. Please.)

I am so pleased with how good "Lost" is getting. I am looking forward to what's next -- whatever it is. *tee hee hee*

Off to bed. See you after "Grey's Anatomy."

BAD ROBOT!

I love TV

2007-03-28T16:32:00.000-07:00

I am a TV addict. I won't lie. I watch a lot of TV, and I have my whole life.

I love the escapism, and I love the writing (of the shows I watch, of course).

So what's currently on my must-see list?

Sundays: "Desperate Housewives" and "Cold Case." (Yes, I know they compete. I have to make difficult choices. And much to everyone's surprise, I do not have TiVo or DVR.)

Mondays: "How I Met Your Mother." "The Class." "The New Adventures of Old Christine." "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip" (which is not on presently).

Tuesdays: "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit." "Dancing With the Stars."

Wednesdays: "Lost." "Medium."

Thursdays: "The Office." "Scrubs." "Grey's Anatomy." "ER." "October Road."

Fridays: I go out. This is one night of no TV.

Saturdays: "Saturday Night Live."

And what else? I watch "Jeopardy!" I love "The Closer," which is coming back in June. I love Court TV's prime-time stuff -- "Forensic Files," "The Investigators," "Most Shocking," "Dominick Dunne's Power, Privilege and Justice." "Masterminds." "North Mission Road." In that vein, I like "Cold Case Files" on A&E. I am a big fan of "Adult Swim" on Cartoon Network.

When I am channel flipping, I put on the Game Show Network to see "Family Feud" and old "Match Game" episodes.

I have perhaps watched "The Bachelor" and "Average Joe" and whatever that show was with Paris Hilton's mom. I have not, however, ever watched "Survivor." Ever.

The truth is, I watch more than is listed here. And I read voraciously about television. I know spoilers and who's who and what gets good ratings and what does not. I know TV theme songs. I own four CDs full of TV theme songs. I often wonder what I should/could be storing in my brain instead of TV trivia and the lyrics to obscure TV themes.

I watched a lot of TV in the 1980s and would consider myself an expert on that era. You name it, I probably watched it. Really.

And soap operas. "Santa Barbara" rates as my all-time favorite forever and ever. I watched "Days of Our Lives" from birth on, and "Another World" kept many a summer afternoon occupied. (I love that it's on SoapNet!) As for nighttime soaps, I love me some "Knots Landing."

I wouldn't say that anything that's on TV right now ranks among my all-time favorites -- although "The Office" is a contender. What does make my all-time list? "Homicide: Life on the Street." "Moonlighting." "Arrested Development." "Santa Barbara." "Laverne & Shirley." "Anything But Love." "Thirtysomething." "The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis." "Eight is Enough." "Bosom Buddies." "Newhart" (the best series finale EVER). "Double Trouble."

My husband often says he can't believe my parents let me watch as much TV as they did. And, on top of that, I was an A student. He's baffled. I think there's something to be said about watching "Moonlighting" while doing my language arts homework.

You might want to know what you'll find in this blog. I'll talk spoilers, and I'll probably sound off on my favorite shows. I'll talk ratings. And I'll probably opine about what's getting canceled and what's being renewed. And I might offer my 2 cents about who's winning on "Dancing With the Stars."

And tell me, too, what you love about TV and what you think I should be watching.

That's it for now.

It's Wednesday. That means I'll be glued to the TV for "Lost" tonight, and then my little sister, Noreen -- my true partner in crime for TV watching -- and I will talk on the phone about all the twists and turns. Wednesday nights rock.