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November 16, 2009
Guest posters on the TV Blog this week
I’ll be away this week, but that doesn’t mean the TV Blog is going to subject you to reruns. TV never stops, and neither do we. Look for special guest posts from editors Sarah Beckham and Sharon Chapman; writer Joe Gross and others.
I’ll be back next week. Until then, keep track of the remote for me and don’t fall asleep on the couch.
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This week's TV picks
Monday:
‘Inside the Actors Studio’ 7 p.m., Bravo: Bon Jovi appears. The whole band. It’s official — the Actors Studio has officially run out of actors. I like Bon Jovi okay but, seriously, if I were Robert DeNiro, I would demand that James Lipton never air my episode again.
‘The Prisoner’ 7 p.m., AMC: Six, Two, 313, 11-12 … is this an AMC drama or ‘Monday Night Football?’ It’s a good thing this is just a miniseries, because it’s days are numbered.
‘Gossip Girl’ 8 p.m., The CW: Lady Gaga appears? Hmm … must be sweeps month.
Tuesday:
‘Merry Madagascar’ 7 p.m., NBC: The animated films’ characters jump into action when Carl Reiner’s Santa crashes onto their island. I hope Santa was just on a test run, NBC, because it’s not even Thanksgiving yet! On the plus side, my whole family is looking forward to NBC’s early December Valentine’s Day specials.
‘Ghost Lab’ 9 p.m., Discovery: Spooky stuff’s afoot in Waxahachie and Dallas.
Wednesday:
‘Modern Family’ 8 p.m., ABC: Edward Norton and Elizabeth Banks? Yep, it’s sweeps month.
‘Glee’ 8 p.m., FOX: The glee club is divided up again. Let’s see, first it was boys vs. girls, then minorities vs. non-minorities. Now they’ve been split into couples. Maybe next week Mr. Schuester will dissect them like frogs.
Thursday:
‘Fringe’ 8 p.m., FOX: Walter’s craving milkshakes. Of course he is. That must mean his body’s not getting enough of something. Oh, I know — ratings!
‘30 Rock’ 8:30 p.m., NBC: Al Gore. Did I mention it’s sweeps month?
‘Family Armor’ 9 p.m., TLC: This show looks at a vehicle-bulletproofing business here in Texas. Now why would we possibly need bulletproofing down here?
Friday:
‘Medium’ 8 p.m., CBS: When Allison becomes light sensitive, she dons sunglasses that show her mysterious numbers. Hmm … maybe she’s watching ‘The Prisoner.’
‘Bartender Wars’ 9:30 p.m., FLN: I’m not sure exactly what this show is about, but if it’s some kind of competition, I predict that somebody will get served.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: Pearl Jam jams. You’d Vedder be watching!
Sunday:
‘2009 American Music Awards’ 7 p.m., ABC: Lady Gaga takes time off from guest-appearing on ‘Gossip Girl’ to join the 37th edition of this annual event. Will Taylor Swift repeat her CMA sweep? (It IS sweeps month!)
‘The Cleveland Show’ 7:30 p.m., FOX: Musical duo Hall and Oates have voice cameos. You know what month it is. I’m just sayin’.
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November 13, 2009
Retired Georgetown TV director lived her own great story line
It sounds as if Linda and Steve Varnum lived a lifetime in just short of eight years.
The couple, high school sweethearts in California over 50 years ago, reconnected in 2002 and settled in Georgetown two years later. Linda, born Linda Gail Day in Los Angeles on Aug. 12, 1938, died on Oct. 23 after bouts with leukemia and breast cancer.
You might not recognize the name, but chances are you’ve seen Day’s work — her page at IMDB.com (the Internet Movie Database) is ridiculous. Her resume reads like a bound collection of TV Guides from the 1980s and early ’90s: Day directed more than 350 episodes of more than 50 different television series, including “Married with Children,” “Archie Bunker’s Place,” “Dallas,” “Kate & Allie,” “Mad About You,” “Who’s the Boss?” and “Clueless.” She was an Emmy Award nominee and she received Paul Newman’s Humanitas Award. The Director’s Guild of America honored her as a trailblazing female director.
And she was Steve Varnum’s soul mate.
Day and Varnum attended separate high schools in the Los Angeles area and were introduced by mutual friends in 1954. They went steady for nine or 10 months, and then went their separate ways. Varnum eventually graduated from college and went to work for the Veterans Administration (now the Department of Veterans Affairs) from which he retired at age 60, while Day continued her education in archaeology and art. Living in Illinois, Day divorced in the early 1960s, returned to Los Angeles and took an office job at CBS. Her father had directed movie trailers and her uncle, Gordon Douglas, was a feature film director (he directed, among other films, “Stagecoach” and “They Call Me MISTER Tibbs!”) but they did not help Day get into show business.
“They hired her as a secretary,” Varnum says. “She couldn’t type, but they loved her; she was such a wonderful personality. You never saw a picture of her where her mouth wasn’t wide open, smiling.” Day kept getting promoted until she landed in script supervising. She found herself on set, responsible for continuity — “making sure that the glass on the table had the same amount of cola or less than it had in the previous scene,” Varnum explains.
At some point, she made the leap to directing, although Varnum didn’t know that when they reconnected. They had talked on the phone two or three times over the years, and the last he’d heard Day was an associate producer. In December 2002, Varnum decided to locate his high school sweetheart again. A Google search turned up thousands of hits but no contact information. He began searching television trade magazines and found an article Day had written, so he e-mailed the magazine explaining that he and Day were high school friends and that she would want to hear from him.
“Coincidentally, the woman who got the e-mail said that she was going to be meeting with Linda the next day,” Varnum recalls. She delivered Varnum’s message early on a Wednesday morning. The next day, Varnum got an e-mail from Day with the subject line “Friends??” After she kidding him, asking him what he was doing reading Caucus magazine, the pair exchanged phone numbers.
“We then talked a couple of hours a day until, well, until forever,” Varnum says. That February, Varnum, then living in Cincinnati, went out to visit Day in Los Angeles. She came out to see him in early April. The pair lived together until they were married in May 2005.
“With two separate lives coming together at such an age, either you’re going to have a lot of problems or you’re going to have to learn how to compromise,” Varnum says. “And we learned to compromise. Both of us moved a lot toward the center, you might say — not politically, but philosophically we moved to the center. Honest to God, it was such a wonderful relationship.
“My wife Linda didn’t know how to nag,” he laughs. “She was such a sweet person, so easy to live with. It was one of those relationships that were just made in heaven or so to speak.”
The pair happened to be going to New Orleans for Christmas in 2003. Texas had not made their short list of places to settle down, but they stopped in Georgetown because they’d heard wonderful things about Austin and were aware of the Sun City retirement community. They fell in love with the area and relocated in 2004. Day became a member of the Sun City Theater group and directed several plays there. Some of the members were naturally wary of a professional outsider coming into their group, Varnum explains, but Day won them over quickly. She had a gift, Varnum says, for “telling somebody how to do something without them feeling like they had been told.”
“She directed Brian Dennehy one time, and he was not happy having a woman director,” Varnum recalls. “But it didn’t take long before she had him wrapped around her finger. People took to her immediately.”
The couple was fond of the Austin Playhouse and visited Esther’s Follies often. They loved Sixth Street and Austin’s restaurants and went to the movies every Thursday. “That’s when they came to clean the house, so we just got out,’ Varnum laughs.
And they watched television, often happening upon episodes Day had directed or stars she had worked with. “If we ever came close to fussing, that was the time,” Varnum joked. He explained that he enjoyed pausing the DVR at exciting points in programs and asking questions about things like what an actor had just said.
“Linda would say, ‘Are we going to watch the movie?’ and I would sit there like an old sullen hen. She did the same thing, but it was OK when she did it. She would say, ‘I directed him,’ or ‘Let me tell you about this one or that one.’ And, so, she did the same thing but I didn’t mind. It didn’t bother me a bit,” he laughs.
Day had worked with so many stars in her career that she had no shortage of anecdotes to recount. Varnum tells me about her “ego wall,” on which she kept clusters of photos. He describes a photo of her and Jerry Lewis upon which Lewis had penned, ‘Linda, my darling, I will never forget last night. Love, Jerry. January ’93.’
“Of course, there was no last night,” Varnum laughs.
There’s the picture of Day with Robert Redford as he gave her the Humanitas Award. The photo shows Day at a microphone while Redford, standing next to her, suspiciously looks at her backside. Day’s slip had gotten caught and was exposed. “She thought that story was so funny, she would tell it to everyone,” Varnum laughed.
And there’s a photo of Day with Carroll O’Connor sitting in Archie Bunker’s chair, now located in the Smithsonian Institute. “She used to take naps in that chair,” Varnum says.
The couple remained active until weeks before Day’s passing, traveling on cruises to destinations including Australia and New Zealand, Tahiti, Alaska and Europe. At the ages of 70 and 71, the couple went ziplining in Hawaii.
A private memorial service will be held on Nov. 20. Varnum isn’t sure many people would want to attend a service for somebody they didn’t know, even if they had been touched by her work.
“Everybody knows the stars,” he says, “but nobody really knows the people behind the scenes.”
This 2008 photo was taken in Hawaii after Steve and Linda had ziplined on two stations (four “zips”) and were preparing to do another one.
Linda Day relaxes on the set of “Archie Bunker’s Place.” “She had the greatest admiration for Carroll O’Connor,” Steve explains. “He was very nice to work with.”
Linda directed Jerry Lewis in an episode of “Mad About You.” Linda told the ad-libbing comic that he might want to “do his best stuff” because she would have to put some of it on the cutting room floor.
Linda (back row, center) poses with the cast and crew of “Married With Children.”
Robert Redford presents Linda with the Paul Newman Humanitas Award.
This photo of Linda and Steve was taken just a little over two months before Linda passed away. “Her smile was our constant companion,” Steve says.
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November 12, 2009
Beaver sprays 'Early Show's' Debbye Turner Bell
I’m probably showing my age, but when I saw the headline “Beaver urinates on CBS ‘Early Show’ correspondent” over on The Live Feed, my first thought was, “Oh, that Jerry Mathers!”
Check out the clip here.
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November 11, 2009
Disabled actors upset about tonight's 'Glee'
Some disabled actors are speaking out against FOX TV’s “Glee,” which airs an episode tonight largely based upon the paraplegic character Artie, portrayed by Kevin McHale — an actor who, unlike Artie, does not have to use a wheelchair. The criticisms appear in an article from the Associated Press.
Robert David Hall, a longtime cast member of CBS’ “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” heads a multi-union committee for performers with disabilities, according to the article. He suggests that fears of litigation, production slowdowns or viewer discomfort are poor reasons for casting non-disabled actors as disabled characters. “I’ve made my living as an actor for 30 years and I walk on two artificial legs,” Hall is quoted as saying.
“Glee’s” executive producer, Brad Falchuk, says plenty of wheelchair-using actors were auditioned for the part. “We brought in anyone: white, black, Asian, in a wheelchair,” he said. “It was very hard to find people who could really sing, really act, and have that charisma you need on TV.”
Casting controversy aside, I found tonight’s “very special” episode to continue the confusing slide in quality “Glee” was experiencing before its recent hiatus. The more pseudo-serious the show gets, the less funny and entertaining it becomes. Tonight’s effort seems more like an after-school special, except for the consequence-free introduction of pot-laced brownies to a bake sale — and didn’t the show just have an episode that hammered home how bad drugs are?
This exemplifies the schizophrenia problem from which “Glee” is suffering. It continues with the character assassination the writers are perpetrating on Jane Lynch’s Cheerios leader, Sue Sylvester. Will she be nice tonight? Or evil? Maybe this is the week in which she’ll be both … I won’t spoil it, except to note that the episode ends with a treacly Sue scene that, I guess, attempts to explain her odd behavior, but doesn’t do that at all.
Sue’s secret was not, as the winner of our recent TV Blog contest Gabe Hernandez guessed, that she is pregnant with newscaster Rod’s baby. Nice try, though. Enjoy that soundtrack CD, Gabe. You may want to just listen to it instead of watching tonight’s episode.
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November 10, 2009
People's Choice nominees announced
The Associated Press has released the list of nominees for the People’s Choice Awards. The nominees were selected by online voting (more than 18 million votes were cast) and winners are selected in the same fashion.
The categories are a little more open than the Emmys (I’m looking at you, “TV obsession” and “Animal show”) and some online voters might have better voted with their people meters and Nielsen diaries: drama nominees “Eastwick” and “Trauma” have already been canceled, and other nominees, including Kelsey Grammer’s awful “Hank,” are on the bubble.
Queen Latifah will host the broadcast from the Nokia Theatre on CBS, Jan. 6, 2010.
Did you vote? Is your favorite show missing from the list? Here are the television category nominees:
TV drama: “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “House,” “Lost,” “NCIS.”
TV comedy: “Desperate Housewives,” “How I Met Your Mother,” “The Big Bang Theory,” “The Office,” “Two and a Half Men.”
TV drama Actor: Hugh Laurie, Kiefer Sutherland, Mark Harmon, Matthew Fox, Patrick Dempsey.
TV drama Actress: Anna Paquin, Blake Lively, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Katherine Heigl, Mariska Hargitay.
TV comedy Actor: Alex Baldwin, Charlie Sheen, Jim Parsons, Neil Patrick Harris, Steve Carell.
TV comedy Actress: Alyson Hannigan, America Ferrera, Amy Poehler, Eva Longoria Parker, Tina Fey.
TV obsession: “Dexter,” “Gossip Girl,” “The Hills,” “The Secret Life of the American Teenager,” “True Blood.”
TV talk show: “Chelsea Lately,” “Live with Regis & Kelly,” “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” “The Tyra Banks Show.”
TV sci-fi/fantasy: “Heroes,” “Lost,” “Supernatural,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “True Blood.”
TV competition show: “American Idol,” “Dancing With the Stars,” “Project Runway,” “So You Think You Can Dance,” “Survivor: Samoa.”
Animal show: “Animal Cops,” “DogTown,” “Dog Whisperer,” “It’s Me or the Dog,” “Rescue Ink.”
New TV drama: “Eastwick,” “FlashForward,” “Melrose Place,” “Mercy,” “The Forgotten,” “The Good Wife,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “Three Rivers,” “NCIS: Los Angeles,” “V.”
New TV comedy: “Accidentally on Purpose,” “Brothers,” “Community,” “Cougar Town,” “Glee,” “Hank,” “The Cleveland Show,” “The Middle,” “Modern Family.”
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November 9, 2009
KVUE's Smith talks 'Good Morning America'
An article on Broadcasting & Cable’s Web site about the impending anchor moves at “Good Morning America” quotes KVUE president and general manager Patti Smith. The story asks ABC affiliates to weigh in on the replacement of Diane Sawyer when she takes the network’s evening news anchor chair in January.
Smith notes NBC’s smooth “Today” transition from Katie Couric to Meredith Vieira:
“They found the right person, an impeccable journalist and a terrific morning host [in Vieira],” she says. “If NBC can do it, then so can we.”
Who would you like to see as “GMA” anchor?
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This week's TV picks
Trust me, ABC’s “V” is a lot more exciting than this photo makes it appear to be.
Monday:
‘How the Beatles Rocked the Kremlin’ 9 p.m., PBS: Let me hear your balalaikas ringing out — back in the USSR, Russian super fans are interviewed in an exploration of the Fab Four’s influence behind the Iron Curtain.
‘Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives’ 9:30 p.m., Food: Guy Fieri chows down at Texas barbecue joints in this tasty rerun.
Tuesday:
‘V’ 7 p.m., ABC: Okay, the set-up was good. Let’s hope Elizabeth Mitchell and company can continue to deliver.
‘Ghost Lab’ 9 p.m., Discovery: Does John Wilkes Booth haunt the Opera House in Granbury, Texas? Well, you can’t spell Booth without ‘boo.’
Wednesday:
‘43rd Annual CMA Awards’ 7 p.m., ABC: Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood perform and host. I hope this means that CMT gets to air ‘Cougar Town’.
‘15 Remarkable Celebrity Body Bouncebacks’ 7 p.m., E!: Famous folk drop pounds and get into shape. You know, it’s about time somebody started paying attention to celebrities’ physical attributes.
Thursday:
‘Real Housewives of Orange County’ 9 p.m., Bravo: New housewife alert! New housewife alert! Alexis Bellino joins the cast.
‘Gone Too Far’ 10 p.m., MTV: A 20-year-old San Antonio heroin and cocaine addict gets a second chance.
Friday:
‘Bang for Your Buck’ 9:30 p.m., HGTV: Austin outdoor living rooms worth $95,000 are toured. It’s Thanksgiving month, right? I’m thankful that the bathrooms remain indoors.
‘Bose Sound Innovations’ 11 p.m., QVC: I usually don’t like to highlight the shopping channels, but tonight is exactly one-month ‘til my birthday and y’all haven’t been getting the hint.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: Willie Nelson and Asleep at the Wheel perform songs from 2009’s ‘Willie and the Wheel’.
‘Celebrity Ghost Stories’ 9 p.m., BIO: C. Thomas Howell has a spooky encounter in an abandoned hotel. I know, I know … you want to know what C. Thomas Howell is doing in an abandoned hotel. Hey — he’s C. Thomas Howell; he doesn’t have to answer to you.
Sunday:
‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’ 7 p.m., ABC: Can David Duchovny help a leukemia survivor and her family rebuild their uninhabitable farmhouse? I want to believe.
‘Nature’ 7 p.m., PBS: The first year in the life of a humpback whale is chronicled. It’s so cute the first time they sit up by themselves, but burping them is really tough, mostly because of the hump.
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November 8, 2009
TV Profile: Terrell Shaw
You might know them or you might not, but chances are you have no idea what they watch. This week we hop onto the couch with KNVA’s human promotions machine. Next time it could be another television personality, a politician or an ordinary couch potato like you or me — check back to find out.
Terrell Shaw
The Face of The CW Austin
Number of years in this position: 1 year … I prefer to say 12 months it makes it seem longer!
I love my job because: I get to do what I love … which includes everything from being on TV doing contest and promotional spots as well as serving my community with special events and speaking to kids about my job on career days!
Here’s what’s on my DVR: “The Vampire Diaries,” “Gossip Girl” that’s right BRUTHA’S like gossip too, “ESPN Sportscenter,” “WWE Wrestling Raw” and “Smackdown” … Ohhhhh Yeaaahhhhh, “The Young and The Restless” … gotta keep up on my soaps and last but certainly not least PBS “Sesame Street” … hey who says Grover and the Cookie monster can’t be fun and informative past the age of eight years old?
My all-time favorite TV show is: It’s a toss up between “Martin” and “Seinfeld” … yadda yadda yadda they both cause serious damage to my funny bone!
You’ll never catch me watching: “Jon and Kate plus Eight” … THEY CRAZY!
If I have insomnia, the show that lulls me back to sleep is: “Antiques Roadshow” … I’m getting zzzz … just thinking about it!
A current show I never miss is: “TUF The Ultimate Fighter” … what man doesn’t like to see two dudes going head to head in battle and knocking each other out! Plus my boy Kimbo Slice is on their Wrecking Shop … that means he works hard (haha).
If my TV is on, it’s probably tuned to this channel: The CW Austin of course … I’m not just saying that because I work for them … seriously some of the best TV on television … besides the women on every show is HOTT that’s right two T’s HOTT!
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November 6, 2009
'The Goode Family' makes Comedy Central debut Jan. 6
We previously reported that Austin native Mike Judge’s animated series “The Goode Family” (canceled by ABC) would make the jump to Comedy Central. TV Week reports that that will happen on January 6. The cable network will re-air the first season’s 13 episodes. If the show does well, there’s a possibility that new episodes could be produced.
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Aqua Teen stars at Alamo Drafthouse tonight, Saturday
Dave Willis, co-creator of Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim show “Aqua Teen Hunger Force” will appear at 7:30 tonight at the Alamo Drafthouse Lake Creek with Dana Snyder, the voice of Master Shake. The duo will also appear at 7:30 p.m. Saturday.
The pair will perform script readings, give out prizes and preview clips from upcoming “ATHF” and “Squidbillies” episodes. In addition, they will be singing songs from the just-released CD, “Have Yourself a Meaty Little Christmas.”
Tickets are $15 and seating begins 45 minutes prior to the performance. For more information, check out the Alamo’s Web site.
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November 5, 2009
'Oprah' move not a done deal
Contrary to Internet reports, Oprah Winfrey has made no decision on the potential move of her syndicated daytime talk show to her new cable network, OWN, Reuters reports via ABC News.
Internet entertainment writer Nikki Finke wrote Thursday that Winfrey would end the Chicago-based talk show when her current syndication deal runs out and move it to Los Angeles-based OWN as soon as mid 2011, the Reuters story says.
Winfrey’s production company, Harpo, Inc., plans to announce the show’s fate by the end of the year.
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November 4, 2009
John Krasinski of 'The Office' will be at Alamo Ritz
John Krasinski, one of the stars of the NBC series “The Office,” will be at the Alamo Ritz next week to promote his debut as a film director.
Krasinski will screen “Brief Interviews with Hideous Men,” based on a book by David Foster Wallace, at 7 p.m. Nov. 13. The event will include a Q&A with Krasinski.
Krasinski also appears in front of the camera in the film. Other cast members include Will Arnett and Timothy Hutton.
For tickets and more information, visit originalalamo.com.
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Steve Martin, Alec Baldwin to co-host Oscars
Two wild and crazy guys?
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced that Oscar hosting veteran Steve Martin and newcomer Alec Baldwin (star of NBC’s “30 Rock”) will co-host the March 7, 2010 ABC Academy Awards telecast, ew.com reports. “I am happy to co-host the Oscars with my enemy Alec Baldwin,” Martin joked.
The choice seems odd in light of the success the younger and more hip Neil Patrick Harris has enjoyed hosting the Tony Awards and, most recently, the Emmys. Ratings for the Oscars seem to drop every year. What do you think? Will the addition of Baldwin’s wry wit and Martin’s banjo-picking convince you to tune in?
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ABC's Quinones at Book People today at noon
ABC News Correspondent John Quinones will be speaking and signing copies of his new book, “Heroes Among Us: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Choices,” at noon today at Book People, 603 North Lamar Boulevard, Austin. The signing is open to the public and books can be purchased at Book People prior to the event.
Quinones is a San Antonio native and a graduate of St. Mary’s University. He’s a co-anchor of “Primetime” and was most recently a correspondent for “Primetime Thursday” and “20/20.” Quinones won six national Emmy Awards for his “Primetime Live,” “Burning Questions” and “20/20” work.
Quinones is in town to speak at the Texas Campus Compact’s Live. Learn. Serve. Dinner on November 5 from 5:30-10 p.m at the Omni Hotel, 700 San Jacinto Street in Austin. The evening will include a reception, book signing, silent auction and dinner, after which Quinones will deliver the keynote speech.
More information and details on how to order Dinner tickets can be found here.
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November 3, 2009
Have we seen the 'Conchords' final flight?
HBO’s Emmy-nominated “Flight of the Conchords” might have flown for the last time, according to Reuters. The news service quotes co-star Jemaine Clement, nominated for an Emmy for the show’s second season, discussing the workload and saying “It very likely might not” return for a third season.
“We’ve got to write the series, but we’ve also got to write the songs, and just dividing your time into those two writing tasks is really tricky,” Clement said.
HBO is leaving the decision about the series — based on the exploits of a New Zealand folk duo in New York City — up to Clement, co-star Bret McKenzie and series director James Bobin. Clement says that if a full third season does not materialize, the show could return in a shorter season or as a special.
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Contest: Win a copy of the "Glee" soundtrack
Does it seem a little more “Glee”-ful out there today? Is your podmates’ humming more annoying than usual? Do you hear that insidiously catchy, over-produced song in the air? That’s just the “Glee” soundtrack.
“Glee: The Music, Season One, Volume 1” hit store shelves and music download sites today, but I’ve got a free CD for one lucky “Glee” fan (hey — do you think the disc’s name is a subtle clue that there will be more of them on the way?)
From the pilot’s “Don’t Stop Believin’ ” Journey cover to “Dancing with Myself,” the Billy Idol tune “Glee”-ized in the upcoming, “very special” Nov. 11 episode, 17 tracks are featured (thankfully, the “Thong Song” doesn’t appear to be among them).
Here’s how you you can win my still-shrinkwrapped copy: Cheerios’ coach Sue Sylvester has a secret that’s revealed at the end of the next new episode. Take your best or funniest guess at what it is; I’ll choose a random entry and get the CD into the winner’s “Glee”-ful little hands.
Enter by commenting below. One entry per person, please. I’ll post the winning entry on Friday.
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'V' arrives tonight: Will you be 'V'iewing?
Bob D’Amico/ABC
Will this be the “V” remake that gets it right?
The much-anticipated series arrives tonight at 7 p.m. on ABC. It’s a great pilot episode, much more agile than the good — but plodding and maddeningly repetitive — “Flash Forward,” ABC’s earlier fall science fiction offering. A “re-imagining” of the original 1983 NBC miniseries (attempted as a regular series by that network in 1984), “V” centers upon the arrival of an extra-terrestrial race — the titular V, or Visitors — who appear in 29 giant spaceships hovering over Earth’s major cities.
The attractive and soft-spoken aliens arrive with a message of peace. They quickly win over the populace by sharing technology, notably in the medical arena, opening centers where they cure all manner of human ills. They offer tours and rides on their spacecraft and recruit young humans into an ambassador program. But does their benevolence mask a more sinister agenda? Of course it does.
The hour moves briskly, reaching much further into the plot line than I would have anticipated and the first 5 minutes, nearly wordless by broadcast television standards, offer some of the best camera angles and most cinematic visuals of the new season. “V’s” special effects are top-notch and the cast, especially Elizabeth Mitchell (“Lost’s” Juliet) as a counter-terrorism agent and Morris Ryan Nichols (Morris Chestnut) as a resistance fighter, bring their A-game. “Party of Five’s” Scott Wolf plays a conflicted television anchor, tempted by Anna, the leader of the Visitors, to stage a softball interview in exchange for the success the exclusive will bring him.
Just four episodes will air initially, with further installments returning after the 2010 Winter Olympics. The show is expensive to produce; future episodes will have to maintain the pilot’s quality and garner big ratings if the Visitors’ visit is going to last more than one season. I think it has a shot. Like “V’s” Earthlings looking to the skies, I am hopeful, but possibly deluded.
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November 2, 2009
Video: '24', evil President Logan return in January
The Associated Press reports that Gregory Itzin will rejoin the cast of the FOX drama “24” when new episodes begin airing in January.
Although Itzin’s disgraced President Logan’s wife got all stabby on him in Season 6, we learned in Season 7 that he was still alive.
The 2-night, 4-hour “24” Season 8 premiere starts at 8 p.m. Sunday, January 17, but I don’t think I’ll be watching.
What do you think? Will you be back or should Jack Bauer just hang it up already?
Maybe this Season 8 trailer will help you decide:
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'Southland' saved by TNT
As speculated, cable network TNT has picked up “Southland,” in a manner of speaking. The cop drama, starring Benjamin McKenzie (of Austin) was canceled by broadcast network NBC after six episodes of its second season were shot but before any of them had aired. TNT will run those episodes along with the 7 from its truncated first season; this will give new viewers a chance to jump in at the beginning.
Here’s your chance, “Southland” fans … TNT — already home to cop drama “Dark Blue” — will evaluate “Southland’s” ratings and decide whether or not to bring it back after these 13 episodes have aired.
The show will begin airing on TNT January 12 at 9 p.m., going head-to-head with NBC’s “Jay Leno Show.”
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November 1, 2009
Most networks up this fall, but ABC drops
Reuters reports that viewership is up at three of the four major broadcast television networks this season. Only third-place ABC — with 11 new dramas and comedies — has seen a decline in ratings.
Major points from the story:
“Glee” and “House” are doing well for FOX, the only network up in all demographics and categories.
First-place CBS has 13 of the Top 20 programs.
NBC ratings are up but network, whose move of Jay Leno to the 9 p.m. prime-time hour from late night has drawn only about 5 million viewers weekly, is still in last place.
Read the complete story by clicking here.
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October 30, 2009
Bulldogs and barbecue: Austinites on 'Judge Joe Brown' today
Wolfe, who adopted the rescue dog three months prior to the attack, maintains that everyone knew the dog was skittish around new people. He contends that the amount Cox is suing for is exorbitant and that she should share liability for the attack.
C’mon, Austin … does every barbecue have to end with someone getting bit in the face?
“Judge Joe Brown” airs at 2 p.m. on FOX.
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October 29, 2009
ABC's 'Supernanny' sets Saturday casting call at Austin Zoo
Can we call it “Zoopernanny?”
ABC’s “Supernanny” is holding an open casting call from 10 a.m. til 6 p.m. on Oct. 31 at the Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary, 10807 Rawhide Trail in Austin. The parenting show is searching for families of all backgrounds for season five, especially: families with unique interests; parents with ordinary and extraordinary circumstances; teen moms; parents with mean girls or bullying boys; culturally diverse parents; and blended families where both sides are seeking help. Producers want families from every type of background who are ready for a visit from nanny Jo Frost.
“We are very excited to host ABC’s ‘Supernanny’ open casting call,” said Patti Clark, The Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary president. “Like ‘Supernanny,’ The Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary is centered around the needs of young children by offering over 300 animals across 100 different species to learn about and experience close-up throughout our beautiful Hill Country zoo and sanctuary.”
For front of line privileges and priority casting, the producers ask that you e-mail your family’s story with a recent photo to cast4shows@yahoo.com or call 614.668.5700 for more information. To learn more about The Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary or the “Supernanny” open cast call visit www.austinzoo.org
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October 28, 2009
'Friday Night Lights' back tonight on DirecTV
“Friday Night Lights” returns tonight with a ticker tape parade. Okay, the flying paper is from former Panthers’ star fullback Tim Riggins’ (Taylor Kitsch) un-cracked college notebooks, but still …
The Austin-filmed critical hit, which has managed to elude ratings and mainstream awards success like a running back zipping down the field, returns tonight, but only if you’re one of those hoity-toity, West Dillon-esque DirecTV subscribers. Us East Dillon-ish scrubs will have to wait until summer 2010, when the series returns to NBC.
Regardless of when you start to watch, you’ll find yourself in a “Twilight Zone-y,” skewed version of the Dillon you know and love. For starters, some of your favorites will be gone. And redistricting (this is Texas, y’all are familiar with that concept, right?) has left Dillon a town divided. Coach Taylor (Kyle Chandler), having guided the Panthers to a loss at State, is relegated to the rust-covered bleachers and neglected turf of East Dillon High. He practically has to break into his own locker room and, once he gets inside, he’s greeted by some furry critter (a badger?), which has taken up residence in one of the lockers (maybe they should have named the East Dillon team the Badgers instead of the Lions).
It’s quite a fall from his old school, where smarmy, new coach Wade Aikman (Drew Waters) and his cronies summon Taylor’s wife, principal Tami (Connie Britton), and inform her that she’ll be calling the coin toss to open the Panthers’ football season. They also tell her which side of the coin to call, but then break out into jerky, frat-boy spasms of laughter. Just kidding, Tami! Sheesh. These guys can’t fail fast enough, but it’s not gonna’ happen any time soon.
Off the field, it looks like Riggins’ college dreams — oh, let’s face it … they’re really his brother’s college dreams for him — are on hold again as he bails from San Antonio State in favor of Dillon and a one-night stand with a bar maid (is this “Friday Night Lights” or “Cougar Town?”) He wakes up to find the woman’s daughter, Becky (newcomer Madison Burge, from Hutto) looking for a ride to school. Becky is sassy, smart, pretty and kinda’ trashy. I like her, but that might be because she asks lover boy how it feels to be “the guy who used to be Tim Riggins.” Hee.
Over at East, Coach Taylor is trying to build a team out of a rag-tag group of misfits and screw-ups, including Vince (Michael B. Jordan), a misfit and screw-up who is delivered to Taylor via squad car. There’s gonna’ be some drama there. But first there’s some locker room drama as the East Dillon Lions squabble on and off the field. Taylor challenges his players to commit or leave, and most of them leave. Oops.
Principal Tami’s got the opposite problem: several of her students have been redistricted to East Dillon High, but refuse to go. Her daughter Julie (Aimee Teegarden) becomes upset as her friends are pulled out of classes and removed from the school. So upset that she just gets up and walks out into the hallway to watch them as they’re escorted away. Can you just get up and walk out of a high school class? I guess being the Principal’s daughter has its privileges.
Julie spends her out-of-school time with boyfriend Matt (Zach Gilford), the former Panther’s quarterback who postponed his education at the Art Institute of Chicago to stay in Dillon, take car of his grandmother and deliver pizzas with Julie riding shotgun. Looks like Coach Taylor’s not the only former golden boy who’s been knocked down a few pegs.
Speaking of Coach Taylor, game night finally arrives and we get to see just how stark the East-West contrast really is: full bleachers, cheers, smoke, flags and pageantry at Aikman’s stadium give way to the stark, empty East Dillon stands. This part of the premiere doesn’t exactly ring true. In the show’s world, Taylor is a football god. Wouldn’t more people show up just to see what would happen? Even just to watch him fail? Besides, it’s football and it’s Texas: I’ve seen bigger crowds show up for that finger field goal kicking game you play at your kitchen table with a buddy and a piece of notebook paper folded into a triangle. Tailgaters, too. Oh, well. Over at West, look for Principal Tami to put Aikman in his place, leaving no doubt as to where her allegiance lies.
I won’t tell you how the Lions’ first game ends, but it’s not pretty. It’s a great set up, though, for what should be a fun year. Thanks to DirecTV, “Friday Night Lights” already has a commitment for another season; Coach Taylor’s position is more tenuous. But he’s never been better than when he’s had something to prove.
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Mike Judge's 'Goode Family' heads to Comedy Central
“The Goode Family,” Mike Judge’s animated sitcom about a family of environmentalist zealots, is headed to Comedy Central. The cable network will re-air the 13 episodes that ran on broadcast network ABC this summer prior to the show’s August cancellation.
When ABC dropped the ax, co-creators John Altschuler and Dave Krinsky promised to shop the show around to other networks. “This show has been the most creatively satisfying thing we have ever done and we look forward to continuing it,” they wrote on the show’s Facebook page.
I don’t think I was the only skeptical viewer, but one of the duo’s most recent posts announced “The Goode Family’s” return:
“IT’S OFFICIAL! The Goode Family will air on Comedy Central in January of 2010! They will start by re-running the original 13,” the post reads. “If this goes well and we capitalize on our fan there will be an order for new episodes! This second chance is truly a factor of our show attracting passionate and vocal fans. Any help getting the word out is greatly appreciated!!”
I wouldn’t count on new episodes, but Altschuler and Krinsky seem determined, promising to embrace social media technology to increase the show’s fan base prior to the new airings.
Comedy Central previously revived “Futurama” and “Family Guy,” and it’s rumored that they will pick up “Arrtesed Development” scribe Mitchell Hurwitz’s failed FOX animated series, “Sit Down Shut Up.”
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October 27, 2009
A former staffer takes Letterman to task
Nell Scovell, a former writer for David Letterman, is the latest person to come forward and throw her 2 cents into the embattled late-night talker’s sexpoitation controversy. Scovell airs her complaints in a Vanity Fair essay, according to eonline.com. The site says the piece “paints her late ’80s tenure on his NBC Late Night show as one marred by uncomfortable tension, hostile environments and sexual favoritism.”
Scovell also decried the lack of female writers on the show and claims she does not want compensation, revenge nor Letterman’s downfall, eonline reports. “I just want Dave to hire some qualified female writers and then treat them with respect.”
I just attended a panel at the 2009 Austin Film Festival in which comedy writers Chuck Sklar and Dan French revealed that none of the late-night talk shows’ writers rooms has a strong female presence. They seem, in fact, to most resemble middle-school boys’ locker rooms.
Scovell’s other accusations aside, the lack of female writers hardly seems particular to Letterman.
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Ricky Gervais set to host Golden Globes
Ricky Gervais, star of the original British version of “The Office” and HBO’s “Extras,” who dissed the Golden Globes in his hilarious appearance on the 2009 Emmy Awards, will host the Golden Globes, the Associated Press reports.
Gervais claimed to prefer the Emmys — which recognize only television work — because of the lack of beautiful movie stars making him feel inadequate (the Globes honor achievement in television, film and music).
“In this room I’m probably above average,” he joked. “Steve Carrell is considered handsome … it’s amazing.”
The Golden Globes have not had a host since 1995, when Janine Turner and John Larroquette handled those duties.
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AMC's 'The Prisoner': Is 'The Village' in Texas?
I just opened the press kit for AMC’s next miniseries, a “reinterpretation” of the 1960s British cult series, “The Prisoner” (it airs in 6 hours over 3 nights beginning at 7 p.m., Nov. 15).
In the show, a man known only by his number (Six) finds himself trapped in “The Village” with no memory of how he arrived. He discovers that his fellow inhabitants are also identified by number, have no memory of any prior existence and are under constant surveillance.
Does that sound like Texas? because the map of The Village has an oddly familiar shape. Check it out:
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October 25, 2009
TV Profile: Dan French
You might know them or you might not, but chances are you have no idea what they watch. This week we hop onto the couch with an Emmy-nominated late night comedy writer who lives in Austin and has produced material for David Letterman, Dennis Miller, “The Late, Late Show” on CBS and “The Best Damn Sports Show Period.” We met up with him after his appearance on a comedy writing panel at the 2009 Austin Film Festival. Next week it could be a television personality, a politician or an ordinary couch potato like you — check back to find out.
Dan French
DrDanFrench.com
Comedy Writer/Comedian/Word Goof
I love my job because: My end product is laughs from other people. Which are good for the environment.
Here’s what’s on my DVR: Cartoons and irkingly silly tween Disney shows. I own children.
My all-time favorite TV show is: “The Wire.” Intricately textured drama is funny to me.
You’ll never catch me watching: “Crock of Love.” Or any variety of semi-attractive people with no self-consciousness.
If I have insomnia, the show that lulls me back to sleep is: “Dane Cook Live!”
A current show I never miss is: “Mad Men.” Because its pretty boring. By which I mean pretty and boring.
If my TV is on, it’s probably tuned to this channel: Comedy Central. Because my goofy thoughts sometimes come out of people’s mouths there.
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October 24, 2009
Review: 'Bon Jovi: When We Were Beautiful'
He’s come a long way from shaggy curls and acid washed jeans, but Jon Bon Jovi is stuck. Stuck between giving the audience what it wants in concert (“You Give Love A Bad Name”) and what is important to him (any introspective ballad on the Lost Highway album). He’s conflicted, he’s tired, but he understands that stadium anthems are his bread and butter, and he’s resigned to performing high-energy numbers that reflexively evoke the hair-metal hand gesture.
This is what comes from being Bon Jovi Incorporated, as you see in “Bon Jovi: When We Were Beautiful,” airing tonight at 8 p.m. on Showtime. The stark contrasts go beyond the black and white cinematography.
Jon Bon Jovi alone in his hotel room — making football deals, sorting through lawyer issues and the “agita” of their July 12, 2008 Central Park free concert, being a well-muscled stress ball — is a solitary figure, together with the band only for performances. He’s the Atlas of the group’s world, carrying it all even in the car ride to the airport. These scenes of stress appear alongside relaxing footage of drummer Tico Torres tooling around in a golf cart and hitting drives off the tee and guitarist Richie Sambora gliding on a boat through a marina, clearly not driving the boat himself.
That analogy illustrates the impression that Bon Jovi Inc. wants you to come away with: they’re all brothers, struggling together and holding on to what they’ve got and to each other in order to achieve success and then survive it. (Glaringly missing in the brotherhood theme is the fate or whereabouts of bassist Alec Jon Such, who mysteriously left the band in 1994). What comes through with more resonance is that Jon is unequivocally driving the boat, and his band mates are happy to go along. Keyboardist David Bryan puts it succinctly: “You can’t fight City Hall.”
Fans won’t be disappointed by the insider glimpse into personal demons the band has battled, from parental abandonment to divorce and alcoholism. Concluding with a rousing version of “Livin’ On A Prayer” that you can’t help but sing along to, we’re reminded that although the members of Bon Jovi the band have grown as people, the need to connect with an audience is what keeps Bon Jovi, the band and the man, going.
“Bon Jovi: When We Were Beautiful,”
8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24
Showtime
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October 23, 2009
'Lost' creator Damon Lindelof speaks. A little.
I grabbed a few minutes on the phone Thursday with “Lost” co-creator Damon Lindelof in advance of his two panel appearances at the 2009 Austin Film Festival. The catch? The upcoming final season of “Lost” was off-limits.
Sigh.
Well, we could always talk about the weather, as in “hey — how’s the weather on that island y’all shoot on and for GOD’s sake how are you possibly going to wrap this all up in one more season and is Locke really dead and did Jack’s plan work? Will the whole season be a reboot to before the crash like he’d hoped?”
No, probably not. My friend and co-worker, tech reporter Omar Gallaga, suggested I ask him for “Mad Men” spoilers. So I did.
“I suspect massive emotional pyrotechnics and let’s see, I guess Don will probably cheat on Betty and someone from Sterling Cooper will be fired. Those are my big guesses,” he said.
Lindelof is happy with the way the final season is shaping up. “It feels a lot like we’ve spent the last 5 years planning for a wedding and now we’re actually getting to have the wedding,” he said. “With all the sort of emotional feelings that go into that, that’s the closest to what it feels like.” That’s about as introspective as he’s willing to get.
“I’m trying not to project emotionally too far past (the series’ end) for fear of not enjoying the process itself,” he explained.
I mentioned to Lindelof how I have a friend who has just recently started to watch the “Lost” on DVD, starting at the beginning, and how it is just such a completely different show now.
“I think when people first saw the pilot, they would rightly say, ‘How is this show going to sustain itself? Why would we want to watch people fumfering around on a deserted island for more than, say, 8 or 9 episodes?’ he said. “It’s amazing that we are writing the 113th hour of ‘Lost’ right now. If you’d have told me that when we were writing the pilot I would have laughed in your face.”
Lindelof’s other irons in the fire include co-writing a “western with science fiction elements” called “Cowboys and Aliens” (Jon Favreau will likely direct) and working on “Star Trek 2,” the sequel to this summer’s reboot clandestinely premiered at the Alamo Drafthouse. Lindelof lured in rabid “Trek” fans by telling them they were going to see 1982’s “Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan.”
“We thought, we’ll show it to the biggest fans of ‘Trek’ and if we can make them happy, maybe we have a chance,” re recalled. The film went on to gross nearly $385 million worldwide.
Lindelof’s first AFF Panel, at 10:45 a.m. Saturday, is “Write What You Know: Fantasy/Sci-Fi.” He’ll appear with David Hayter and Roberto Orci (“Fringe” producers and Lindelof’s “Star Trek 2” co-writers) and discuss writing for those genres. At 3:45 p.m. Saturday he’ll appear on a “TV Development” Panel with “Freaks and Geeks” creator Paul Feig and writer/producer Chuck Sklar in which he’ll discuss the ‘Lost’ pilot.
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October 22, 2009
Hulu to begin charging for content in 2010
Do you catch up on your favorite shows online?
Broadcasting and Cable quotes News Corp. Deputy Chairman Chase Carey as saying Hulu, an Internet service which currently allows viewers to watch television content online — its slogan is “Watch your favorites. Anytime. For Free.” — will begin charging for some content as early as 2010.
“It’s time to start getting paid for broadcast content online,” Carey said. “I think a free model is a very difficult way to capture the value of our content. I think what we need to do is deliver that content to consumers in a way where they will appreciate the value. Hulu concurs with that, it needs to evolve to have a meaningful subscription model as part of its business.”
While Carey did not suggest that users would have to pay for all content, he suggested there could be fees for exclusive content and television previews.
Would you pay for Hulu? Is this a smart move? Sound off.
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'Brothers,' 'Til Death' and 'Dollhouse' go on hiatus for sweeps
The Fox Network’s Friday night prime time shows “Brothers,” “‘Til Death” and “Dollhouse” are going on hiatus after their October 23 airings, according to The Futon Critic. The programs will be replaced with reruns of “House” and “Bones.”
There’s good news and bad news here: the numbers for “Dollhouse” have been ticking slightly upward, but it’s never a good sign when you’re pulled from sweeps periods — when important ratings are measured — especially for reruns of other programs. “Dollhouse” will return in December with back-to-back airings. In January, the show will be back in its regular single-run Friday night slot.
“Brothers” will shift permanently to a 6 p.m. CT Sunday slot, the site reports, noting that no return date for “Til Death” was given.
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October 21, 2009
KXAN launches 'MyAustinTV', sports programming
MyNetwork TV is back. The programming had shared a signal with The CW and has not had a local home since LIN-TV’s Austin NBC affiliate KXAN dropped it in favor of a 9 p.m. local newscast in mid-September (MyNetwork TV has recently dropped its network model, becoming a syndicated programming provider).
KXAN today launched “MyAustinTV,” which station President and General Manager Eric Lassberg is calling a MyNetwork TV partner station. The content will broadcast in high definition on KBVO-TV (digital channel 14), a full-power television station that formerly simulcast KXAN.
Sports fans should be happy — much of MyAustinTV’s content will cater to them.
The channel will air San Antonio Spurs NBA basketball games, Houston Texans NFL pre-season games and Big 12 college basketball games, including University of Texas Longhorn basketball games. The station will also air other UT sports programming, including “Longhorn Sports Center Weekly.” In addition, MyAustinTV has the capability to air live UT sports such as baseball, women’s basketball and softball.
MyNetwork TV’s primetime programming kicks in at 7 p.m. and includes such shows as “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” “The Unit” and “WWE Smackdown.”
“MyAustinTV is dedicated to providing local and regional sports and entertainment programming to Central Texas,” Lassberg said. “We especially want to thank the University of Texas, the San Antonio Spurs and our other partners in the community for helping us provide viewers with their favorite local content.”
Beginning today, MyAustinTV can be seen on Time Warner Cable channel 1525 on the HD tier and on DirecTV on channel 51. Launches on Grande Communications (channel 18 and 318), Suddenlink and AT&T Uverse will happen “soon,” Lassberg says. Digital over-the-air consumers can pick up KBVO on channel 14.
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New Adam Lambert video: 'Time for Miracles'
Remember Adam Lambert? The Goth-inspired, gender-bending, vocally-gymnastic “American Idol” runner-up? MTV.com reports that his new video appeared on MySpace this morning.
The song, a power ballad called “Time for Miracles,” is from the John Cusack disaster film, “2012.” In the video, Lambert wails as the apocalypse unfolds around him. He’s not giving up because, well, it’s time for miracles. Buildings are toppling. Meteors pound the earth. Windows are bursting — but that might be due to Adam’s ridiculously high vocal register. I’m just saying.
Hey, watch out, Adam! The Eiffel Tower is falling and if it hits you it might smudge your eyeliner!
Lambert told MTV that the song, which is now available for purchase on Amazon and iTunes, is not representative of the tunes on his upcoming album.
MySpace has disabled comments for the video … hmm … so take a look below and let us know what you think:
Time For Miracles
Adam Lambert | MySpace Music Videos
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October 20, 2009
Sarah Palin: Oprah's next big guest
The Orlando Sentinel reports that Sarah Palin will appear on Oprah Winfrey’s talk show Monday, Nov. 16.
Palin will be there to pump up sales of her book, “Going Rogue: An American Life,” and Oprah will have her there to further pump up her ratings, which the Sentinel says are already up 15 percent from the same period last year.
How will these two — a former Republican Vice-Presidential candidate and a staunch Barack Obama supporter — be able to share a stage? Will Palin be able to hold her own with the expert talker? Or will Winfrey be taken off guard by Palin’s plain spoken, folksy chatter?
Post your predictions below.
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TV theme Composer Vic Mizzy dies at 93
You might not have reacted the same way I did when you heard that Vic Mizzy died Saturday at age 93 in his Bel Air home. You probably didn’t even recognize the name, although you might have had a notion that it sounded vaguely showbizzy. Maybe you’d seen it somewhere before …
Vic Mizzy was a composer and he wrote the classic themes for ’60s sitcoms “The Addams Family” and “Green Acres” (admit it — at least one of these songs is going through your head right now and might be stuck there a good part of the morning. You’re welcome.)
I knew the name instantly because, as a young man, I couldn’t get enough of the absurd, surreal “Green Acres.” Oh, I watched my share of Gomez and Morticia Addams, Cousin It and Uncle Fester, but I dissected “Green Acres” — even the credits — the way littler kids tore up cartoons, other kids my own age studied comic books and girls, and adults examined the Zapruder Film. I reacted the same way when I heard that “Beverly Hillbillies,” “Petticoat Junction” and “Green Acres” producer Paul Henning had died in 2005.
The Associated Press says that Mizzy sang the theme to “The Addams Family” himself and directed the title sequence. I didn’t know that. Cool. He also demanded rights to the song, which would bring him royalty checks for the rest of his life as the song became a popular rallying theme at sporting events. Shrewd.
He wrote songs that were recorded by Dean Martin, Doris Day, Perry Como and Billie Holiday in the ’40s and ’50s, the Associated Press says. His hits included “Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes,” “My Dreams are Getting Better All the Time,” and “With a Hey and a Hi and a Ho-Ho-Ho.”
I don’t know … that’s pretty impressive, but keep Manhattan and give me that countryside. “Green Acres,” after all, is the place to be.
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October 19, 2009
'Python' party continues on IFC
Are you one of those annoying people who spout Monty Python quips and quotes or reenact entire routines? Then shut up while the rest of enjoy IFC’s “Python-a-thon,” continuing through Friday on the cable network.
The event kicked off Sunday night with an episode titled, “The Not-So-Exciting Beginnings,” so don’t feel bad if you missed it. Here are the descriptions of the week’s remaining installments:
THE MUCH FUNNIER SECOND EPISODE
Monday, October 19 at 8:00 p.m. CT
Catch up with The Pythons as they remember Monty Python’s Flying Circus’ early struggles turned extreme successes with sketches influencing generations to come. Interviews with John Cleese, Terry Jones, Terry Gilliam, Russell Brand, and Seth Green.
AND NOW THE SORDID PERSONAL BITS
Tuesday, October 20 at 8:00 p.m. CT
Join Monty Python members as they discuss BBC censorship, unwanted celebrity status, member Graham Chapman, Python controversy and Cleese’s departure. Interviews with Terry Gilliam, John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Jones, and Eric Idle.
THE ULTIMATE HOLY GRAIL EPISODE
Wednesday, October 21 at 8:00 p.m. CT
Comedic team Monty Python document arriving in the U.S. and leaving TV to dive headfirst into film and the ups and downs with their project “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” Interviews with Jimmy Fallon, Seth Green, Russell Brand, and Bruce Dickinson
LUST FOR GLORY
Thursday, October 22 at 8:00 p.m. CT
On the heels of ‘Holy Grail’ and its success, the Python Gang reflects on their next misinterpreted and controversially banned film, “The Life of Brian.” Interviews with Terry Gilliam, John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Jones, and Eric Idle.
THE LAST EPISODE EVER … FOR NOW
Friday, October 23 at 8:00 p.m. CT
The Gang recalls their last movie, The Meaning of Life and its relevance to Graham Chapman’s memorial service. Comedians and celebrities discuss Python’s influence. Interviews with Eddie Izzard, Dan Aykroyd, Jimmy Fallon, Steve Merchant.
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Wes Hayden named favorite reality villain
Austin’s Wes Hayden, from ABC’s “The Bachelorette,” was named favorite villain at the 2009 Fox Reality Channel Awards, reports seattlepi.com.
The site quotes Hayden as saying “it’s hard to swallow,” and says his distaste for the “villain” label may explain why he’s in talks with NBC for a new show.
Hayden will hold the honor in perpetuity, since Fox Reality Channel is going off the air in March, 2010.
What do you think? Was Hayden the bad boy the show made him out to be or was he — like Jessica Rabbit — just drawn that way?
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This week's TV picks
Monday:
‘Heroes’ 7 p.m., NBC: Who ya’ gonna’ call? Ernie Hudson, apparently. The once and future ‘Ghostbuster’ guest stars.
‘The Big Bang Theory’ 8:30 p.m., CBS: Hmm, it must be sci-fi guest star week. ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’s’ Wil Wheaton cameos in a showdown with Sheldon.
Tuesday:
‘Melrose Place’ 8 p.m., The CW: Okay, this is just getting creepy. Daphne Zuniga (‘Spaceballs’) returns as Jo Reynolds. Secrets, sex, blah blah blah.
‘The Good Wife’ 9 p.m., CBS: Martha Plimpton (‘Surface’, of course) guest stars as Alicia races against the clock to save three widows’ pensions. ‘Surface’ was a science fiction show, too.
Wednesday:
‘Extreme Competitions’ 7 p.m., TRAVEL: A mustache-growing competition is highlighted. No kidding. Mustache growing. I hope it’s ‘extreme’ mustache-growing. Is this a mini-series? Because I’m not sure how much ‘stache growing can happen in one night.
‘Glee’ 8 p.m., FOX: Sue displays her softer side? Which side is that, exactly? I thought even her deepest interior was gruff exterior.
Thursday:
’30 Rock’ 8:30 p.m., NBC: Will Arnett hanging with the Obama girls? I’m so in.
‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ 9 p.m., BRAVO: Season 2 finale. Aw, already?
Friday:
‘Brothers’ 7 p.m., FOX: Here we go again. E Street Band member Clarence Clemons (‘Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure’) appears as Coach sacks Chill and enlists Mike’s help with his football squad.
‘Lobstermen’ 9 p.m., DISCOVERY: Lobstermen! Half-men, half-lobster! Now there’s a scary — what? On a boat? With nets? Nevermind.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: Singer-songwriter showcase! Andrew Bird and St. Vincent perform.
‘Surprise Inspection’ 9 p.m., TruTV: There’s no description for this show but, just in case, I’m gonna’ make sure everything here is in tip-top shape.
Sunday:
‘Werewolves: The Dark Survivors’ 8 p.m., ANIMAL: A faux documentary explores the lives and behaviors of werewolves. I don’t know about you, but I kinda’ prefer my faux documentaries to explore the practical joke Jim and Pam just played on Dwight.
‘Mad Men’ 9 p.m., AMC: Joan and Greg make plans for the future. Yay! More Joan! Boo! Joan and Greg have a future.
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October 16, 2009
'Big Love' back in January with new faces
Got big love for ‘Big Love’? Season 4 of the popular HBO polygamy drama will premiere Jan. 10, 2010. Season three also debuted in January, Variety reminds us.
The site reports that Academy Award-nominated actress Sissy Spacek joins the cast as a Washington, D.C., lobbyist beginning in the episode three.
Other new faces in Season 4 include Bella Thorne, who replaces Jolean Wejbe as Barb and Bill’s youngest daughter Teenie, and Ben Koldyke as Dale, a state-appointed trustee and love interest for Alby (Matt Ross), The Los Angeles Times reported in September.
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October 15, 2009
Caption this: New 'Friday Night Lights' Season 4 photos
Here are a few still photos from the Oct. 28 season premiere of “Friday Night Lights” on DirecTV. No captions were included, so make up your own and post ‘em below!
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'Friday Night Lights' news keeps on coming
With the Season 4 premiere of “Friday Night Lights” less than two weeks away, lots of Dillon dish is crossing my desk.
First up is news that Executive Producer Peter Berg will direct the premiere — almost a series premiere of sorts because of the huge cast turnover. Berg has not helmed an episode since he directed the show’s 2006 pilot.
EW’s Michael Ausiello reports that former “Practice” star Steve Harris is slated to appear in about seven episodes of the upcoming season, portraying Vernon Merriweather, an ex-football star and the father of East Dillon newbie Jess. At the end of Season 3, Coach Taylor (Kyle Chandler) took the head coach job at East Dillon while his wife Tami (Connie Britton) remained Principal of West Dillon High.
“Friday Night Lights” premieres October 28 at 8 p.m. CT on DIRECTV’s The 101 Network and will show up on NBC in 2010.
Here’s a look at how that moody Season 4 trailer was filmed, with a few hints from the actors about what we can expect this year:
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October 14, 2009
ABC lands new Matthew Perry sitcom
Could this be any more surprising?
“Friends” star Matthew Perry, who hasn’t had much cache since that series ended — his track record in films has been spotty, at best — was the subject of a heated bidding war between ABC and “Friends” network NBC for a new sitcom, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Thomas Schlamme is attached to direct the comedy, the site says, in which Perry stars as the manager of a second-rate sports arena approaching his 40th birthday and reevaluating his life.
Maybe it’s the “Cougar Town” effect. Courteney Cox’s terrible sitcom has been pulling in big numbers for ABC.
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Local teen's toon plays on national TV
12-year-old Bailey middle school student Jesse Lee Farquhar is one in 4,714, but she can be forgiven for feeling like one in a million. Her short animated film, “Living Room Goes On,” was one of 14 entires out of 66,000 selected to be broadcast nationally.
Farquhar’s film will make its world television premiere on Wednesday, October 14 at approximately 2:10 PM (CT) on the “qubo on ION TV” programming block on ION Television network. The animated film will also air on qubo Channel on October 14 at 3 PM (CT) and will air several times a day on qubo Channel for one week until the next quboPic film debuts the following Wednesday. Additional, it can be seen on the “qubo on NBC” and “qubo on Telemundo” (in Spanish) programming blocks on October 17 and on qubo.com.)
Farquhar created her short animated film using an innovative storytelling web application on qubo.com called “Zimmer Twins.” The Zimmer Twins, Edgar and Eva, are animated characters featured in interactive cartoons that kids can create from scratch, modify and share with their friends in a rich, safe web environment.
qubo producers have re-mastered Farquhar’s animated film, converting it to high-resolution video with broadcast quality color, music and sound effects. They have also enlisted character actors to record the dialogue and narration written by Farquhar in her text bubble script.
Here’s a complete listing of when Farquhar’s work can be seen locally:
On Wednesday, Oct 14:
2:10 PM (CT) on ION network (channel # varies by cable operator - it’s channel 38 on Time Warner)
3 PM (CT) on qubo Channel- AT&T Uverse subscribers get qubo Channel on Channel 328 (will have multiple airings on qubo Channel for one week)
3 PM (CT) online at: http://qubo.com/videos.asp
On Saturday, Oct 17
7:10 AM (CT) on Telemundo (check local listings for Channel #)
9:10 AM (CT) on local NBC station KXAN- TV (Channel 4)
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October 13, 2009
Dr. Oz helps Harker Heights woman today
Dr. Oz is featuring a Harker Heights woman on his show today.
From the show:
After two children, once svelte Army-wife Natalie, a service vet herself, had become obese. Her mission: to lose the baby weight (plus some) before her husband returns from Iraq. Formerly and unhealthy 180 lbs, she is now in fit and fighting form. The episode will air Tuesday, October 13th at 1pm on FOX.
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October 12, 2009
This week's TV picks
Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin star on “30 Rock.”
Monday:
‘Dancing with the Stars’ 7 p.m., ABC: Tune in to see who’ll take over the reality competition’s dramatic narrative now that Tom DeLay is gone.
Tuesday:
‘The Good Wife’ 9 p.m., CBS: Alicia takes on her firm when she suspects jury tampering in a pharmaceutical company trial. Watch quickly before health care reform makes this storyline obsolete.
Wednesday:
‘Hank’ 7 p.m., ABC: Fraisier — I mean, um, Hank, takes a job working alongside his daughter at the mall. Sigh.
‘Modern Family’ 8 p.m., ABC: Shelley Long (“Cheers”) guest stars on the best new comedy of the season.
‘Glee’ 8 p.m., FOX: The club members are pitted against each other again? Didn’t that just happen last week? Is this a “Glee”-peat? Nope, this time Sue (Jane Lynch) is trying to spread dissent.
Thursday:
‘Flash Forward’ 7 p.m., ABC: Yikes! Somebody saw a murder in their vision of the future. Tune in to find out whom.
‘Vampire Diaries’ 7 p.m., The CW: Stefan and Damon continue to duke it out while the sheriff and mayor try to protect the citizens of Mystic Falls. Seriously, people, if you don’t like vampires, stay away from places called “Mystic Falls.”
‘30 Rock’ 8:30 p.m., NBC: Season 4 of NBC’s Tina Fey comedy begins with a show entitled “Season 4.”
Friday:
‘Ugly Betty’ 7 p.m., ABC: Betty, now an associate editor, clashes with her ex-boyfriend boss. Lynn Redgrave and Kristen Johnston guest star on this season 4 premiere.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: Are you a Kenny Chesney fan? He’s crooning his greatest hits tonight.
‘Tailgate Warriors with Guy Fieri’ 8 p.m., FOOD: Y’all like to tailgate, right? The Food Network personality puts tailgaters from across the country through a game-day grub competition.
Sunday:
‘The Simpsons’ 7 p.m., FOX: The 20th edition of Halloween-themed “Treehouse of Horror” finds take-offs on zombies, Hitchcock and “Sweeney Todd.”
‘Sunday Night Football’ 7:15 p.m., NBC: Chicago at Atlanta. Go, Bears!
‘The Cleveland Show’ 7:30 p.m., FOX: Arianna Huffington guest stars.
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October 9, 2009
Trailer: 'Friday Night Lights' via 'Carnivale'
The teaser trailer for season 4 of “Friday Night Lights” has hit YouTube, and it makes the show look more like the spooky HBO series “Carnivale” than the football drama we know and love (a big, magic tree was central to the imagery of that late, lamented series, too).
The L.A. Times pulls a lot of clues out of the 30-second clip. Frankly, I think they might be reaching but there’s not a whole lot to grasp onto here.
“Friday Night Lights” returns to DirecTV on Oct. 28 and NBC in summer, 2010. Here’s the teaser and, just for fun, I’ll slap a “Carnivale” trailer down below it:
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'Dallas' fans:TNT might reboot nighttime soaper
The New York Times reports that Warner Bros. will attempt to continue the ‘Dallas’ saga with the next generation of the Ewing family (headline of the year: “Who reshot J.R.?”). The prime time soap opera straddled three decades, running on CBS from 1978-1991, and captivated the nation with its 1980 “Who shot J.R.?” cliffhanger.
Original cast members including Larry Hagman, Linda Gray and Patrick Duffy have been contacted for participation, according to the paper.
Maybe with “Southland’s” cancellation, there’s room on TV for Southfork. Would you watch a “Dallas” reboot? What other shows would you like to see revived?
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America blows up the Moon. Again.
In honor of the disappointing, real-life blowing-up of the Moon, here’s the classic “Mr. Show” comedy sketch that must have inspired the folks at NASA. It’s ironic that people actually had viewing parties to watch the disappointing event today, just like in this bit:
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Is 'Southland' cancellation Jay Leno's fault?
“Southland,” the NBC cop drama starring Austinite Benjamin McKenzie, has been canceled before its second season had a chance to roll out of the station and fingers are pointing at Jay Leno, whose awful one-hour comedy show eats up every NBC 9 p.m. weeknight slot. (Those prime slots are traditionally filled with just the kind of drama the fine “Southland” was growing into).
“I’m disappointed that NBC no longer has the time periods available to support the kind of critically-acclaimed series that was for so many years, a hallmark of their success,” EW.com quotes executive producer John Wells as saying. “We remain extremely proud of Southland and are actively looking for another home for the series.”
The decision seems to have been sudden. The network’s official Twitter page for the show sent this tweet out Wednesday: “Remember - this Friday NBC.com will start streaming all of Southland Season 1. Tell your friends and get ‘em hooked now!”
Michael Cudlitz, who played patrol officer John Cooper, also implores viewers to tell their friends … to contact NBC and let them know they’re unhappy about the cancellation. His profanity-laden Twitter page instructs fans “Don’t go quietly” and he writes, “Honestly, not bitter. Kinda pissed. I still believe the show would have done well on Fri.”
Dateline NBC will now air in that Friday slot.
Will you miss “Southland?” What should Ben McKenzie do next?
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October 8, 2009
'The Austin Daytripper' premieres tonight on KLRU
Chet Garner hits the road at 9:30 tonight on PBS station KLRU. As the energetic, affable host of “The Austin Daytripper,” Garner’s show visits areas within driving distance of Austin, perfect for a mini-vacation lasting just one day.
On the premiere episode, Garner and crew travel to Waco, visiting Health Camp — an ironically-named greasy burger joint, Baylor University, the Dr. Pepper Museum, Cameron Park, George’s Restaurant and Bar and Poppa Rollo’s Pizza.
Whew. That’s a lot to pack into one day.
Garner is a charming and humorous host, whether doing burger-inspired calisthenics (let’s just call them calorie-isthenics) outside of Health Camp, mispronouncing the names of animals at the Cameron Park Zoo (I’m pretty sure he called a Komodo Dragon a Kimono Dragon) or playing up Poppa Rollo’s as a Godfather-inspired mob hangout (it’s not).
The segments have the quick-cut look and feel of shows you might see on either the Travel Channel or the Food Network, and incorporate elements of both. Some of them carry on just a bit long (Cameron Park mountain biking, I’m looking at you), but how much else is there to do in Waco?
The hijinks are aided by Jeff Schuessler’s clever animation.
In addition to KLRU Thursday night airings, “The Austin Daytripper” is available to Time Warner Cable customers through Central Texas on Demand (Austin-channel 1400, Waco/Kileen channel 200) and the program can be seen online at www.klru.tv.
I can’t wait to see where Garner goes next. Here’s a promo for the series:
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Michael Vick to star in new BET series
The Los Angeles Times reports that NFL star Michael Vick is starring in a new television series for BET.
The program, with the working title “The Michael Vick Project,” chronicles Vick’s comeback and also his troubled past (Vick was arrested in 2007 for running a dog-fighting ring and spent 18 months in prison. He now plays for the Philadelphia Eagles).
The article says the Humane Society is on board, but PETA (People for the Ethical treatment of Animals) has concerns. The paper quotes PETA spokesman Dan Shannon as saying, “People who abuse animals don’t deserve to be rewarded. They shouldn’t be given multimillion-dollar contracts … or given the privilege of being a role model.”
The show’s producers coined a new term, “docu-series,” to describe the program. They claim it will be a sober look at Vick’s life and not a typical reality series. BET claims the show is consistent with the network’s philosophy of family values, cultural uplift and community pride.
What do you think? Can you forgive Michael Vick? Does he deserve a second chance?
Would you watch this show?
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Live Chat: Fall TV season
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Live chat today on fall TV season
Come back at 11 a.m. CT and participate in a live chat about the Fall TV season. What’s working for you? What shows do you dislike? DId the networks get the nights/time slots right for your favorite shows? What’s missing? We’ll chat about which shows might get picked up (some have already!) and which shows are likely to get the axe.
See you then!
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October 7, 2009
The Hammer's down: DeLay drops out of 'Dancing with the Stars'
As leaked Tuesday afternoon, former Congressman Tom DeLay withdrew from ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” competition Tuesday night, citing stress fractures in both feet. DeLay’s departure means partner Cheryl Burke is history, too.
“You can’t practice, and if you can’t practice you make a fool of yourself out here,” DeLay said. “I don’t want to do that to Cheryl.”
“The Hammer,” as he was nicknamed on Capitol Hill, dropped out of the competition even though he was pronounced safe from elimination after the judges’ votes were combined from telephone votes from across the country. Debi Mazar and partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy were eliminated after receiving the lowest total number of votes.
The big question now is which remaining dancing duo will drive the show’s narrative from this point on — DeLay’s goofy performances and his injuries have been played up by the show’s producers throughout the beginning weeks of the competition and now he’s gone (although host Tom Bergeron extended an invitation to DeLay and Burke to return for the show’s season finale to dance the Texas Two-step).
Who should “DwtS” focus on now that DeLay is gone? Sound off!
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October 6, 2009
EW: DeLay to depart 'Dancing' due to injuries
It looks like former Congressman Tom DeLay won’t have to face the voters after all: EW.COM reports that injuries will force the Hammer to drop out of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” tonight.
Although the network would not comment, stress fractures in the former House Majority Leader’s feet had led to speculation that he might not even perform Monday night (he did — a Samba). We’ll never know, but DeLay’s injuries might have been a moot point; he and partner Cheryl Burke had stalled in the vote talley, regular placing second lowest and in constant danger of elimination.
The show airs at 8 p.m.
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DeLay on 'Dancing': Going for the bi-partisan vote
Newsweek has a great, fairly savage recap of Tom DeLay’s Monday performance on “Dancing with the Stars.” The piece’s writer, Holly Bailey, is right: the show really played the Hammer’s injuries for drama … it seems to be this season’s dominant story line.
Lance Bass and Paula Abdul were in the crowd cheering on DeLay and his partner, Cheryl Burke, who danced a Samba to “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” The former House Majority Leader wore bright red pants and a red and white striped shirt with an elephant on the back (he looked like he should have been serving pizzas at Shakey’s) while Burke wore a backless, blue, starred outfit with the Democrat party’s logo. When they were close to each other, I guess they were supposed to look like a flag.
The judges were kind with the commentary, but the pairs’ score of 15 (out of a possible 30 points) once again landed them in second to last place and in danger of elimination tonight. Will DeLay and Burke be sent packing in a dwindling field of contestants? Should they be?
Here’s video of the couple’s performance. Take a look and let us know what you think. Commenters, let’s take note of the duo’s “can’t we all just get along?” theme and keep our observations respectful and tolerant:
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'Idol gives back' returns next season
“Idol Gives Back,” the charity event featured on FOX’s “American Idol” in 2007 and 2008 (but absent last season) will return in 2010. The event will be broadcast on April 21 during the results show for the Top 7 finalists according to Zap2it.com. “Idol Gives Back” will benefit Children’s Health Fund, Feeding America, Malaria No More and Save the Children as well as the United Nations Foundation, the site reports.
With times so tough, FOX’s head of alternative programming Mike Darnell says the event will emphasize how even very small contributions can make an impact. The previous, star-studded “Idol Gives Back” events have raised more than $140 million for charity.
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Craig Ferguson addresses Letterman scandal (video)
“Late Late Show” host Craig Ferguson has a unique perspective on the David Letterman sextortion scandal, as noted in this article by the Associated Press.
Letterman’s production company, Worldwide Pants (insert your own joke here) produces Ferguson’s show, which directly follows Letterman’s “Late Show” on CBS. Because of pre-taping, Ferguson couldn’t address the situation on his Friday night show, but he spent a good chunk of time Monday night talking (and joking) about his boss’ recent difficulties, asking the audience members to put themselves in his shoes.
“The person you work for, the person you admire and respect, is caught in an embarrassing situation. And your job is to be funny about that, whilst trying to keep your own job,” he joked. “So this is my last show.”
Here’s video of Ferguson’s Monday night monologue:
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October 5, 2009
'Arrested Development' film in the works
The Hollywood Reporter says the “Arrested Development” movie is back on,
The Web site says that “Arrested” creator Mitchell Hurwitz and co-executive producer James Vallely are working on a screenplay; in the past Hurwitz has said he wouldn’t work on a script until all of the main cast members were committed to the project.
The low-rated but critically acclaimed story of the Bluth family ran on FOX from 2003-2006.
Read the full story here.
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JB and Sandy make KEYE TV debut
Radio personalities JB and Sandy of Mix 94.7 made their daily television debut this morning on KEYE. The CBS television affiliate recently axed its morning news program, moving anchor Fred Cantu to Spanish-language Telemundo and co-anchor Michelle Valles to the station’s new 4 p.m. lifestyle show.
Airing from 6-7 a.m., the show — a simulcast of the duo’s morning radio program — is pretty much what you’d expect. It features the pair shooting the breeze, along with sidekick Alex Franco. Sara Osburn joins in the discussion and handles the newsier aspects of the telecast.
Four people sitting around a table, wearing headphones and talking into microphones … it’s not much of a television show (visuals amounted to still photos and file footage) but who really sits in front of the TV for a solid hour on a weekday morning? You’re getting ready for work or getting the kids ready for school and you really just want some chatter in the background with occasional weather and traffic breaks (this morning’s show had three, deftly handled by KEYE’s Kelly Slifka).
The four personalities have an easy rapport, but the chatter — this morning centering on David Letterman, the Austin City Limits festival and the worst Austin intersections for traffic — didn’t seem particularly amusing or insightful. Let’s cut the quartet some slack, though, it must be odd for radio guys to suddenly have cameras thrust upon them. Sandy seemed a little nervous and Sara kept glancing up at the overhead camera. Franco was too comfortable, twisting back and forth in his chair. Only JB seemed perfectly at ease, and I’m sure the others will come along.
Interestingly, toward the end of the broadcast, Sandy betrayed a radio reflex: to call Alex over, he waved his hand and silently motioned for him, then whispered to him off mic while a caller complained about a particularly snarled intersection. This is the kind of thing that’s best kept from radio listeners but sticks out like a sore thumb to television viewers. JB and Sandy are going to have to figure out how to reconcile their approach to two separate and distinct audiences.
Toward the end of the show, Sandy teased a segment that would be coming up at 7:15, after the televised portion would have concluded. It was a smart move … clearly they hope people will hop into their cars for their commutes and tune to the Mix. They never even said goodbye to their television audience; that duty was left to Slifka.
As a whole, the broadcast reminded me of the water cooler chit-chat you hear (or participate in) when you arrive at the office. It’s fun to listen to, but I’m not sure why I wouldn’t just turn on the radio.
Note: Sandy McIlree was kind enough to contact me and thanks me for my comments. He also pointed out that I had confused him with JB Hager. Oops. I think I’ve swapped all the references above; they should be correct now. And I’ve got the visual, so I won’t make that mistake again. See? The simulcast is already paying off!
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This week's TV picks
Pam and Jim get hitched on NBC’s ‘The Office’.
Monday:
‘Dancing With the Stars’ 7 p.m., ABC: What dance will Tom DeLay do tonight? And what will he wear? Who cares … all y’all want to do on the TV Blog is argue politics.
‘Gossip Girl’ 8 p.m., The CW: Film star Hilary Duff appears as a film star. Way to stretch those acting chops, Hilary.
Tuesday:
‘Dancing With the Stars: Results Show’ 8 p.m. ABC: Did Tom DeLay make it through? Will he be back next week? Does it matter? Isn’t the important question whether he’s God or the Devil?
‘The Forgotten’ 9 p.m., ABC: The name of this show is going to become its epitaph in about 3 weeks. Mark my words.
Wednesday:
‘The Middle’ 7:30 p.m., ABC: Sue tries out for the swim team. Trust me, any time Sue tries out for something, it’s a riot.
‘Modern Family’ 8 p.m., ABC: Okay, this show is a big 2-for-2, so there’s no reason to suspect that tonight’s episode won’t be hilarious.
Thursday:
‘Flash Forward’ 7 p.m., ABC: What? The mass blackout somehow involves Nazis now? This show hurts my brain in a good way.
‘Community’ 7 p.m., NBC: This show moves to its 7 p.m. time slot with an episode involving Mr. Chang. Yay! Plus, since the ‘Saturday Night Live’ on Thursday thing is over, there’s a chance ‘Saturday Night Live’ on Saturdays will actually be funny. Win-win!
‘The Office’ 8 p.m., NBC: Jim and Pam get married (yawn) in this hour-long episode. Hey — at least they get their wedding taped for free.
‘Vampire Diaries’ 7 p.m., The CW: Bite, furtive glance, kiss, bite, bite, angst, fainting, angry outburst, kiss, bite.
Friday:
‘Most Terrifying Places in America 2’ 9 p.m., TRAVEL: Paranormal hot spots across the country are explored. Hmm … I didn’t know ghosts used wireless Internet.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: Ben Harper and the Relentless 7 perform.
Sunday:
‘The Simpsons’ 7 p.m., FOX: Bart becomes interested in something potentially dangerous, Marge attempts to get it banned, TV critic finds it more and more difficult to keep defending this show.
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October 4, 2009
TV Profile: Leslie Rhode
You might know them or you might not, but chances are you have no idea what they watch. This week we hop onto the couch with a local anchor. Next week it could be a different television personality, a politician or an ordinary couch potato — check back to find out.
Leslie Rhode
Co-anchor/Reporter KXAN Austin News
Number of years in this position: 10 months this time around (I held the same position previously for 3 years.)
I love my job because: It allows me to never stop learning, and it’s here in Austin!
Here’s what’s on my DVR: a couple of old college football games, KXAN Austin News and Jack’s Big Music Show (Noggin)
My all-time favorite TV show is: The Carol Burnett Show (I have great memories of watching it as a child with my parents.)
You’ll never catch me watching: really scary movies or boxing
If I have insomnia, the show that lulls me back to sleep is: any program on a home shopping network
A current show I never miss is: KXAN Austin News
If my TV is on, it’s probably tuned to this channel: I’d like to say KXAN, but since I have two preschool children, the TV is usually on Noggin, Playhouse Disney or PBS.
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October 2, 2009
Sex and extortion scandal boosts Letterman's ratings
The Los Angeles Times reports that ratings for Thursday’s “The Late Show” surged 22 percent from the season average.
Host David Letterman disclosed on that program that he had been the target of a blackmail scheme involving sexual relationships that had occurred between him and women who worked on his NBC show.
The article notes that while “The Late Show” is on a ratings upswing, Letterman scored bigger numbers when President Obama was recently his sole guest and his all-time ratings high came on Dec. 1, 2005 when Oprah Winfrey appeared.
Those looking for Letterman’s reaction to the reaction will have to wait … tonight’s “Late Show” was also taped on Thursday.
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Letterman reveals blackmail attempt on 'Late Show'
CBS talk show host David Letterman revealed Monday night that he was the victim of a blackmail plot. Following his “Late Show” monologue and a commercial break, Letterman thanked musical director Paul Shaffer and the band, then addressed the audience:
“I’m glad you folks are here tonight,” Letterman said, clearing his throat, “and I’m glad you’re in such a pleasant mood. Because,” he paused and drew in a breath, “I have a little story I would like to tell you and the home viewers as well. Do you feel like a story?” he asked to cheers and applause.
He went on to relate how just over three weeks ago he had gotten up early to head to work and, upon entering his car, noticed a package in the back seat. “I don’t usually receive packages at 6 in the morning in the back of my car. I guess you can; I guess some people do,” he deadpanned.
The package contained a letter that the host claimed read, “I know you do some terrible, terrible things. And I can prove that you do these terrible things.” He claimed the package contained samples of that proof. “Maybe this looks better to you at noon,” Letterman said, “but 6 in the morning all you can think about is every terrible thing you have ever done in your entire life.”
Letterman said the person who left the package was a man who had threatened to put all of his knowledge about the claimed indiscretions into a screenplay unless the host gave him $2 million.
Describing himself as a towering mass of Midwestern, Lutheran guilt, Letterman claimed that the threat terrified him. He contacted his attorney, met with the letter writer and then contacted the Special Prosecution Bureau of the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, which designated the case as blackmail.
Another meeting with the suspect was arranged in which Letterman says the man again threatened him by claiming to be writing a book about the TV personality. “It’s all coming up roses for me now,” Letterman said, “because, remember — this guy knows creepy stuff about me.”
A third meeting was arranged for Letterman to hand over a phony check to the blackmail suspect. “If there’s a lighthearted moment in any of this, and I’m not sure there really is,” Letterman said, “because I’m such a bonehead — have you ever seen, like, a golf tournament where they have the giant check? I couldn’t talk him into that.”
Reiterating how scary the whole event had been, Letterman recounted testifying before the Grand Jury Monday morning. “I had to tell them all of the creepy things that I had done that were gonna be —” he said, as the studio audience cut him off with their laughter.
“Well now why is that funny? That’s, I mean …” his voice trailed off and he shook as head as the audience began to applaud.
He said the suspect was arrested shortly after noon Monday.
“The creepy stuff was that I have had sex with women who worked for me on this show,” Letterman admitted. “Now, my response to that is, ‘yes, I have’.”
Letterman revealed that the information might have been embarrassing had it been made public, “especially for the women.”
He thanked the authorities and called it “a very bizarre experience.” He said he needed to protect these people, his family (Letterman married Regina Lasko in March; the couple have been together for more than 20 years and have one son, born in 2003), himself, supportive friends, “and I hope to protect my job.”
“I don’t plan to say much more about this on this particular topic, so thanks for letting me bend your ears,” he concluded.
CBS News reports that the suspect is an employee of that network’s “48 Hours” and confirms his arrest Monday on charges of attempted grand larceny in the first degree. Further, the employee has been suspended by the network, which is cooperating with the investigation.
Do you think it was a good move for Dave to reveal this information on network television? Did he have a choice? What do you think the fallout will be? It seems odd that the audience responded so positively, but Letterman’s had some experience making apologies lately and he’s good at his job. It’s definitely creepy to have the types of relationships he admits having had with subordinates but, apparently, there have been no claims of sexual harassment. Can sex with an employee ever be considered consensual?
You’ve got to admit … creepy or not, the man knows how to tell a story. Here’s a short clip:
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September 30, 2009
Review: 'The Middle'
Who’da thunk that when Fox’s 2007-2008 Kelsey Grammer/Patrica Heaton sitcom “Back to You” was canceled, Heaton would come out on top? After all, Grammer had a great run playing effete Frasier Crane, first in a supporting role on “Cheers” and then, for eleven seasons, on his own show. Heaton spent nine years playing second-fiddle Debra Barone on “Everybody Loves Raymond.”
Yet here’s Grammer basically playing Frasier again in the dreadful ABC sitcom “Hank,” while Heaton shines in the same network’s sweet, funny, delightful offering, “The Middle.” Heaton’s character, wife and mother Frankie Heck, truly is stuck in the middle: middle age, middle income, middle America. The third best salesperson (out of three) at the used car lot where she works, Frankie’s got a problematically frank spouse, Mike (Neil Flynn) and three kids.
If it sounds like “Malcolm in the Middle,” it’s not. I’ve watched incredulously and with some degree of frustration as the two shows keep getting compared (maybe it’s the name) but while “The Middle” is quirky, it embodies none of “Malcolm’s” mean-spirited humor or shrill tone. In fact, it reminded me of nothing so much as (the much better) “The Wonder Years.”
Perhaps this is because the pilot episode focuses so heavily on the children: teenage Axl (conceived during the Heck households “Guns n’ Roses” period); Sue, who fails with gusto at everything she tries; and oddball Brick (okay, he does look a little like “Malcolm’s” Dewey).
Eden Sher is an enthusiastic charmer as hapless Sue, whose involvement in show choir doesn’t end nearly as well as the productions on Fox’s “Glee.” Atticus Shaffer shines, too, as youngest child Brick. He has the disconcerting habit of repeating key words from his sentences, at the end of them, in a creepy, loud whisper, and he counts his backpack as his best friend — hey, it worked for Dora the Explorer.
Watching Heaton maneuver her life and job around and amongst these kids (she takes a car buyer on a test drive to Brick’s school when she’s summoned there by his teacher) is a lot of fun.
If the writing keeps up and the focus remains on the sweet family dynamics instead of contrived, goofy shenanigans — I’m looking at you, fellow car salesman Chris Kattan — “The Middle” could rise to the top.
“The Middle”
7:30 p.m., ABC
Grade: B+
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September 29, 2009
Tom DeLay's "Dancing" departure delayed
Former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay made it through week 2 of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars.” He and partner Cheryl Burke performed a relatively clean (if uninspired) tango Monday night. It was much less bizarre than last week’s lip-sync and air guitar YouTube-phenomenon cha cha to the Troggs’ “Wild Thing.”
The number received a lowish score of 18 from the judges. Combined with their score from the previous week, DeLay and Burke ended the night tied for the second lowest combined total and in a prime spot for elimination.
But viewers voted — Kathy Ireland and partner Tony Dovolani were sent packing instead — and the Hammer and his professional coach will return next week.
Did the judges and America make the right call? What type of dance would you like to see DeLay and Burke perform? Would you like to see DeLay go all the way or do you find his booty-shaking embarrassing? Sound off!
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Video: Conan O'Brien's head injury
Ouch.
Conan O’Brien smacked his head hard on his studio’s concrete floor during taping for the Sept. 25 episode of “The Tonight Show.” It occurred during a bit with actress Teri Hatcher (“Desperate Housewives”). On Monday, he discussed the accident — what he remembers of it anyway — with sidekick Andy Richter.
I’m sorry Conan got hurt, but it was great to see Andy sitting next to him again on the sofa. Here’s video of Conan and Andy discussing the incident along with footage of the event. Honestly, the audible smack when his head hits the floor could probably be included on a sound effects record:
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'SNL's' Jenny Slate lives to bomb another day
TV Guide reports that Jenny Slate will not be fired for her obscenity slip on the Sept. 26 season premiere of “Saturday Night Live.”
In an awful sketch representative of the entire show, newcomer Slate accidentally dropped the f-bomb as the host of “Biker Chick Chat.”
“No truth to firing conjecture,” TV Guide reports NBC spokeswoman Sharon Pannozzo told the New York Daily News. “She will not be fired.” That paper also sees an FCC fine as unlikely, since the agency focuses most of its monitoring on prime-time programming.
Viewers at home will also be spared any penalties for bemoaning, post-show, “What the (expletive) was Lorne Michaels thinking putting that on television?”
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Tom DeLay and the politics of 'Dancing'
I guess all of the contestants on “Dancing with the Stars” are viewed through the prisms of their notoriety, but entertainment (and political) pundits seem to be having an especially good time talking about Former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay’s turns (and trips) on the popular ABC show.
Allow me to direct you to politico.com, where staffers weighed in on the Hammer’s latest performance — a “dignified” tango with partner Cheryl Burke.
Here are the highlights of their politically-tinged pokes:
“He’s known for his tough-love approach in Washington and The Hammer didn’t cut himself or his pre-stress fractured feet a break while dancing the tango tonight.”
“Like his rise to power in the House, DeLay on ‘Dancing’ came to win.”
“Who wants to talk about Tom DeLay’s criminal court case when he’s gingerly tangoing his way across the stage? He nailed the tango head-snap with a nasty glare - probably similar to the one he once gave House Republicans who wanted to break ranks.”
“Unlike his days whipping votes on the House floor, this time The Hammer couldn’t close.”
It’s also a good chance for the liberal punditry to remind America of DeLay’s political fancy footwork and missteps, as Leonard Pitts did in this opinion piece following DeLay’s inaugural “DwTS” performance writing, among other things, that DeLay “threatened judges and otherwise trampled the constitutional separation of powers during the Terri Schiavo affair, once likened the Environmental Protection Agency to the Gestapo, said in the wake of the Columbine massacre that guns have ‘little or nothing’ to do with juvenile violence, fought to make this country a fundamentalist Christian theocracy, and left Congress in 2006 under scandal clouds and criminal indictment.” To be fair, Pitts talked about DeLay’s dancing too, and gave the Hammer props for doing something he wouldn’t have the guts to do.
Here’s are some highlights of DeLay’s performance Monday night, including the near-drop at the end that may send him home (DeLay and Burke are tied for second lowest overall score):
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September 28, 2009
This week's TV picks
Old Faithful erupts in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, as shown in Ken Burns six-part documentary series, “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea,” beginning Sunday, Sept. 27, at 7:00 p.m. EDT on PBS. (AP Photo/Florentine Films and WETA, Craig Mellish)
Tonight:
‘Lie to Me’ 8 p.m., FOX: Season 2 kicks off! A woman with multiple-personality disorder could be a witness or a killer. Hmm … that’s several times the usual number of lies to sift through.
Also premiering: ‘Trauma’ 8 p.m., NBC
‘The National Parks: America’s Best Idea’ 7 p.m., PBS: This episode covers the years 1890-1915 and the beginnings of a conservation movement led by the Sierra Club, the Audubon Society and Theodore Roosevelt. Additional episodes air Tuesday and Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Tuesday:
‘Melrose Place’ 8 p.m., The CW: Jane Mancini’s back! Josie Bissett returns to Melrose Place and immediately blackmails somebody. There’s a surprise.
‘The Good Wife’ 9 p.m., CBS: Julianna Margulies goes around the State’s Attorney to represent a stripper who claims she was raped.
Wednesday:
‘The Middle’ 7:30 p.m., ABC: Patricia Heaton stars in one of the fall’s best new comedies as a woman stuck in the middle: middle age, middle income, Middle America. It’s wacky, but sweet … like a twisted version of ‘The Wonder Years.’
Also premiering: ‘Hank’ 7 p.m., ABC
‘Modern Family’ 8 p.m., ABC: If there’s a less-qualified person than Phil to be giving anybody responsibility lessons, I’d like to meet him. But that’s just what he’s doing with son Luke. Meanwhile, Mitchell and Cameron take their baby to ‘Mommy and Me’ class.
‘Glee’ 8 p.m., FOX: Recent Emmy winner Kristin Chenoweth (‘Pushing Daisies’) tries to help Will up the Glee Club’s game.
Thursday:
‘Community’ 8:30 p.m., NBC: John Michael Higgins (‘Kath and Kim’) plays a quirky instructor who jeopardizes Winger’s plan for an easy A.
‘Fringe’ 8 p.m., FOX: A bomb blast in Philadelphia sends Olivia and Peter to Iraq. That must be one powerful bomb.
‘Flash Forward’ 7 p.m., ABC: A suspect in the global blackout is tracked to Utah and Olivia meets the man from her vision.
Friday:
‘Til Death’ 7:30 p.m., FOX: The season 4 premiere finds Ally and Doug returning from Ecuador as man and wife.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: The Dave Matthews Band kicks off season 35 of the popular concert series. Were you at the taping?
Sunday:
‘Three Rivers’ 8 p.m., CBS: The transplants drama underwent its own switcheroo when this episode — originally the second of the series — was swapped to run first.
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September 27, 2009
Live from New York: It's the f-bomb!
This is what you look like just after you use the f-word in front of millions of viewers on live television.
This is probably not how poor Jenny Slate pictured her “Saturday Night Live” debut.
An hour and 13 minutes into the predictably lame season opener (they always leave me thinking, “this is what they came up with after having the entire summer off?”) the new cast member and Upright Citizens Brigade alumnus did the unthinkable — she dropped the f-bomb.
In the middle of a talk show parody called “Biker Chick Chat,” in which every sentence contained the swear-substitute “frickin,” Slate said, “You stood up for yourself, and I (expletive) love you for that.” She immediately realized what she’d done and puffed out her cheeks in embarrassment (Twitterers were calling it her “ashamed chipmunk” face). You gotta love live television.
“You’re in my heart, babe, you’re in my heart,” fellow cast member Kristin Wiig’s character responded without missing a beat. But the audience was clearly stunned, too.
Three performers (not counting musical guests) have dropped the f-bomb on “Saturday Night Live”: In a 1980 incident similar to Slate’s misstep, Paul Shaffer accidentally used the word instead of “flogging” while playing an English Rock Star; one-time Weekend Update anchor Charles Rocket was fired following a 1981 broadcast in which he used the expletive while chatting with host Charlene Tilton at the end of the show, when the cast traditionally gathers on stage around the host; and Norm MacDonald used the word after getting something stuck in his throat during the Weekend Update segment.
MacDonald wasn’t around for very long after the incident, but he was probably let go because NBC’s West Coast division President Don Ohlmeyer didn’t like him and never thought he was funny. Ditto for Rocket, who was swept out with a wholesale cast turnover that only saw Eddie Murphy and Joe Piscopo survive (Rocket committed suicide in 2005). Back then, a slip of the tongue was a convenient excuse to can a performer. In these post Janet Jackson wardrobe malfunction times, it’s almost a foregone conclusion.
So it will be interesting to see if Slate is slated next Saturday or if she’s frickin’ gone.
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September 25, 2009
Another 'Friday Night Lights' casting call
On location casting is once again looking for paid extras to appear in “Friday Night Lights,” the locally-shot NBC/DirecTV show about central Texas football.
“We are currently filming all over the Austin, TX area and are looking for local residents to work as Extras on our show,” a casting agency spokesperson said.
If selected to work as an extra, all extras positions are paid at $7.25 per hour. All applicants must be US citizens and have valid photo ID and social security cards. No experience is necessary for these positions.
The agency is specifically seeking African American and Hispanic Extras of all ages to portray high school students, community neighbors, football fans and various other extras roles.
The casting call takes place Saturday, Sept. 26 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Millennium Youth Center, 1156 Hargrave St. in Austin. No preparation is necessary (except for the valid ID and social security card) — just show up prepared to have your picture taken.
If you are not able to attend this open casting call, the agency invites you to visit its Web site and fill out a free Talent Application (you’ll need to upload a couple of photos).
For further information email the agency at fnl_extras@yahoo.com.
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Blanco band lends 'FNL' a hand
On Sept. 17, the Blanco High School marching band got its marching orders: grab your instruments, don’t bother tuning ‘em and report to San Marcos to appear on an episode of “Friday Night Lights.” The NBC/DirecTV show needed a band to sit in the stands and pose as the San Marcos Rattlers and Blanco band director, David Shirk got the call, according to this story in the Blanco County News.
The band is scheduled to appear in the third episode, airing sometime in November on DirecTV and summer 2010 on NBC.
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September 24, 2009
Review: 'Flash Forward'
FBI agent Mark Benford (Joseph Fiennes) surveys the aftermath of the mass blackout on the premiere of “FlashForward.” (ABC/Ron Tom)
Let’s get this straight: “Flash Forward” is not “Lost.”
“Lost” opens with a twisting, white, sans-serif logo drifting across the screen for a few seconds before fading into its black background; “Flash Forward” opens with a non-twisting, white, sans-serif logo drifting back into the screen for a few seconds before fading into its black background.
The pilot episode of “Lost” shows the aftermath of a massive plane’s fiery, horrific crash; the first episode of “Flash Forward” shows the aftermath of a fiery, horrific, massive car crash.
“Lost” starred Dominic Monaghan and Sonya Walger. “Flash Forward” stars Sonya Walger and Dominic Monaghan.
There were polar bears wandering around “Lost’s” island and “Flash Forward” has a kangaroo hopping around downtown Los Angeles.
Lincoln’s secretary was named Kennedy; Kennedy’s secretary was named Lincoln.
Oops … wrong conspiracy.
The truth is that “Flash Forward” does owe an awful lot to “Lost” and it should tide over fans of that show until it returns in January. Both series are stylish and dramatic, with compelling characters and fantastic premises. Each hinges upon the idea that consciousness can travel through time. The production quality of both shows is top notch and look ridiculously expensive. And, like “Lost,” it appears that “Flash Forward” contains elements that fans are going to scrutinize — freeze-framing their DVRs and uploading screen shots to online fan forums.
Near the beginning of the first episode, everybody blacks out for exactly 2 minutes and 17 seconds. During that time, most have visions and as they regain consciousness they come to realize — doctors, cops, lovers and children waking in wrecked cars, on the floors of operating rooms or in their beds — that their visions were of the same day and time six months in the future.
Why this happened is, of course, the biggest question and it won’t be answered soon … in the lead character’s vision, he — an FBI agent — was still trying to solve it. But there are other compelling issues here: can the events in the visions be avoided or altered? What about those people who didn’t experience visions — will they still be alive in 6 months? And what type of story will the show have left to tell once the 6 month mark’s been reached?
Perhaps “Flash Forward” will be exactly like “Lost” after all, switching gears and becoming an entirely different show than it appeared to be at the outset. If future episodes are as compelling as the pilot, I’ll be along for the ride.
“Flash Forward” (pilot): A-
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September 23, 2009
Review: 'Modern Family'
Cameron cradles his adopted Vietnamese child on ABC’s “Modern Family.”
‘Modern Family’ is like an ‘Arrested Development’ that people might actually watch.
Like the late, lamented story of the Bluth clan, ‘Family’ (premiering at 8 pm tonight on ABC) follows the interconnected machinations of an extended family in shaky, one-camera fashion with, thankfully, no laugh track.
Jay (Ed O’Neill) is the patriarch, married to — and often mistaken for the father of — a much younger woman, Gloria (Sofia Vergara, verging on channeling Charo). Together they’re raising Manny, an amorous child who, like his mother, is interested in an older partner.
An alternative partnership is found in the house of Mitchell (Jesse Tyler Ferguson), Jay’s son, a gay man living with Cameron (Eric Stonestreet, channeling Nathan Lane). The pair have just adopted a Vietnamese baby and one of the pilot’s best gags takes place on the flight home from that country.
Jay’s daughter, Claire (“Lost’s” Julie Bowen) is a former wild child married to an immature husband and raising three kids of her own. How they deal with a BB gun accident is nothing short of hilarious (check out the video, below).
Characters occasionally address the camera, which is problematic in the absence of any explanation (such as “The Office’s” faux documentary conceit) but maybe that’s been fixed since I watched the screener weeks ago.
But that’s a quibble. “Modern Family” is simply the best new comedy of the season.
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September 22, 2009
Obama plays softball on 'The Late Show'
So, President Obama was on Letterman last night. Would he be as calm, jovial, friendly and relaxed as he had appeared in his previous “Late Night” outings as a Senator and Presidential candidate? Or would he be more tense (and intense) … weary from the ongoing battle for health care reform? I had more or less predicted the latter.
I was wrong.
From the moment the President was introduced, smiling and waving to the crowd, he seemed confident, happy and, most importantly, relaxed. Following up on an earlier Letterman bit with an audience member who had brought a heart-shaped potato with her to the studio, Obama took control of the stage, telling Dave that was the real reason he’d come to visit. He then engaged in off-the-cuff banter with the potato’s owner — “Mary Apple? Is your real name? Mary Apple?” — and he pocketed the odd tuber at Letterman’s request, although I’ll bet Mary Apple got it back (along with a great story) after the show.
The first interview segment seemed designed to make Obama appear as normal as possible, given the whole “most powerful person in the free world” thing. Letterman asked about Obama’s summer and the President responded by talking about his daughters. “They basically goofed off all summer, which I couldn’t do,” he stated.
“Others have,” Dave pot-shot to laughter and applause.
Obama explained that his kids don’t really notice the Presidential hubbub; they have slumber parties and spend the night at their friends’ houses like other children. “But their parents get frisked,” Obama added.
“That happens at my house, too,” Letterman joked.
“The thing that we are happiest about is that they are wonderfully normal, happy kids so far,” Obama said. “I give Michelle all the credit.”
It turns out that the telegenic Obama was not on Letterman to sell health care reform to America as much as he was there to re-sell himself (which, granted, would go a long way in helping him sell health care reform). This was driven home by an exchange later in the program, when Letterman noted former President Jimmy Carter’s recent statements that vocal opposition to Obama was partially based upon race.
“Well, it’s important to remember,” Obama said, “that I was black before the election,” reminding America that we voted him in. And, throughout the first half of his “Late Show” appearance, he reminded us why: he appeared confident, smart, well-spoken, decisive. Quick.
Still, the second segment’s would have to be all health care, right? When Obama was on Jay Leno’s “Tonight Show” in March, nearly the entire appearance was a dry, jargon-filled push for the economic stimulus package — and that was never in as much trouble as health care reform.
Wrong again. Dave held up photos: There’s the President at his desk in the Oval Office, a young child hunkered down and peering mischievously at him from behind the couch.
“I hope that’s Sasha,” Obama quipped, “otherwise there’s been a breach of security that we did not know about.” Quick.
Another photo shows Obama in the White House screening room holding cardboard 3D glasses to his eyes (he couldn’t remember, but the film he’d watched was “Up”). The next picture was of the President and Hillary Clinton seated across from each other at a picnic table outdoors. “This just screams picnic to me,” Dave joked.
“We were having a wonderful time,” Obama replied.
“No potato salad,” Dave noted.
The final photo showed the President running with a football, Presidential dog Bo at his heels. See? Just like you and me.
But President Obama is not just like you and me, and halfway through the show, the pair finally got around to politics … specifically, the economy. Unemployment, housing, household bills, energy, jobs again. Dave asked Obama if the stimulus had worked. Obama explained that without it, things would have been much worse.
He kept things largely simple and matter-of-fact, but terms such as “smart grid” and “broadband” began to creep in, prompting Letterman to cut to a commercial.
41 minutes into the hour, the discussion of the recent shouting at town hall meetings (and Presidential addresses) which led to that Jimmy Carter reference finally leads to a discussion of health care. Time for some tough questions?
“In terms of health care, what am I missing about this?” Letterman asked, possibly the most open-ended, softball query ever. It’s clear that Obama was smart to choose Letterman’s venue to make his case. The President ran through his familiar arguments, largely uninterrupted by his host, whose interjections amounted mostly to comments such as, “I’m not a socialist, but it (universal health care) don’t sound that bad to me.”
“The thing I’d like to see is those ‘death panels’,” Letterman joked. “If we could get those in immediately …”
Health care, economy … what have we missed? The host and his guest finally dipped into foreign policy with a discussion of Iraq and Afghanistan. No tough questions on this topic either, but that’s not why the President was here; that’s what all those Sunday morning news show shots were for.
“I can’t tell you how satisfying it is to watch you work,” Letterman said, concluding the interview. “And remember, when things get tough as things tend to do, going forward … you, sir, are in possession of a heart-shaped potato.”
Former President Bill Clinton visits “The Late Show” tonight at 10:30 on CBS.
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Review: 'The Good Wife'
It’s great to see Julianna Margulies back in the courtroom.
Okay, her last legal effort, 2008’s “Canterbury’s Law,” never took off. But “The Good Wife,” premiering on CBS tonight at 9 p.m., should fare better. Not so much for the conventional writing or the Deus Ex Machina case solving, but for Margulies’ nuanced, committed portrayal of her character, Alicia Florrick.
Florrick, a pampered (and probably unfulfilled) politician’s wife, returns to practicing law when her husband Peter (“Sex in the City’s” Mr. Big — Chris Noth) is jailed on ripped-from-the-headlines sex and corruption charges … hey, it’s Chicago.
After 13 years away from the courtroom, Florrick finds herself a junior associate at a big-deal windy city law firm under the curious — and attracted? — eye of former law school chum Will Gardner (Josh Charles, “In Treatment”). Competing for her job against a competitive Harvard graduate, and ultimately for her children’s welfare and family’s reputation, Florrick’s first case is a cut and dried retrial of a murder case. All she has to do is to follow the firm’s outline — it resulted in a deadlocked jury the first time around. But Florrick locks horns with her superiors over their courtroom strategy.
The outcome of the trial is a little too easy, but that’s okay; the best moments of “The Good Wife” take place outside of the courtroom, as Florrick is forced to deal, daily, with the fallout of her husband’s legal indiscretions and the players who put him away. She’s horrified and embarrassed as her teen children are haunted by YouTube videos of their incarcerated dad and taunted by their schoolmates.
It’s compelling stuff watching Margulies juggle the emotional demands of a character herself juggling fear, humiliation, fierce loyalty, pride, shame, certainty, confusion, doubt and anger. Margulies is up to the task; she’s perfectly capable of carrying this show, and its success will depend upon how much the writers trust her and forgo soapy romance and courtroom theatrics to focus on her character’s struggle for personal and professional fulfillment.
“The Good Wife,” 9 p.m., CBS. Grade: B-
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September 21, 2009
Tom DeLay: 'Dancing's' wild thing
When we create a blog post, we have to categorize it. For this post I chose “Reality TV” and “Entertainment.” Too bad there wasn’t a category labeled “Oh, Dear God! My Eyes!”
Tom DeLay debuted on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” Monday night, performing a cha-cha to the Troggs’ “Wild Thing” with professional dancer Cheryl Burke. Wearing a long-sleeved brown shirt and pants and a sequin-studded brown vest, the former Speaker of the House strutted, lip-synced, shook his redistricting money maker and air guitared his way to infamy.
The “DWTS” judges gave DeLay and Burke a score of 21. Should he stay or go?
Here’s incriminating evidence — er, I mean, video:
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HBO: 'Curb' is back, 'Bored to Death' debuts
Ted Danson, Zach Galifianakis and Jason Schwartzman prowl the streets of New York in “Bored to Death.”
Now that the first season of “Hung” is over, we can start laughing at HBO again. Okay, maybe I’m a little tough on the disingenuously-marketed Thomas Jane “comedy” that’s exceptionally difficult to write about in a family newspaper. Still, the chuckles were few and far between.
Not so with the pay cable net’s new Sunday night combo of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and “Bored To Death.”
“Curb,” Larry David’s cringe-worthy comedy, is as crass and funny as ever. The 7th season opens on the flip side of the mirror from where last season ended. Then, an abandoned Larry (his wife, Cheryl, had finally left him earlier in the season) was blissfully in love with Loretta Black. Last night, in a new low of self-absorption, he was trying to break up with her — and quickly, before her impending cancer diagnosis came through (even Larry would find it difficult — but not impossible — to break up with someone who’d just been diagnosed with cancer).
If last night’s premiere — featuring a brilliant guest turn by comedienne Catherine O’Hara as Marty Funkhouser’s mentally-disturbed sister, Bam-Bam — is any indication (and having seen a few more episodes, I am happy to report that it is) “Curb” fans are in for a wonderfully petty, uncomfortable and hilarious ride this season. The machinations and falsehoods kick into high gear in a few weeks when the original cast of “Seinfeld” appears to stage a dreaded reunion episode for David’s purely selfish reasons.
“Bored to Death,” (you’ve got to have guts to give your show that name) HBO’s new “noir-otic comedy,” is a lot drier and loads more low-key. It stars Jason Schwartzman (“Rushmore,” “The Darjeeling Limited”) as Jonathan Ames, a writer’s-blocked novelist who’s just been dumped by his girlfriend; she wanted him to give up the three w’s — weed and white wine — and he couldn’t deliver.
A pulp novel fan, Ames (not to be confused with real-life series creator Jonathan Ames … or is he?) gets the notion he’d like to be a detective and slaps an ad — unlicensed private investigator” — up on Craigslist. With buddy Zach Galifianakis and, increasingly, his editor Ted Danson in tow, Ames’ “cases” find him tangling with the likes of druggies, prostitutes, single mothers, skate punks, Greek thugs and Jim Jarmusch.
Galifianakis is great and Schwartzman is Schwartzman, but Danson steals the show as the vice-riddled, hedonistic editor — an aging, drifting, effete stoner with a tinge of Sam Malone’s cockiness (and cluelessness).
“Bored to Death” had an early premiere at Austin’s Alamo Drafthouse because HBO thought Austinites would “get it.” In light of the material, that’s both a compliment and a likelihood.
What do you think of HBO’s Sunday night lineup? Sound off.
“Curb Your Enthusiasm,” 8:00 p.m.
“Bored to Death,” 8:30 p.m.
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President Obama on Letterman's 'Late Show' tonight
Following a sweep of the Sunday morning talk shows (with the notable exception of Fox News) look for President Barack Obama to be David Letterman’s sole guest on tonight’s “The Late Show,” 10:30 p.m. on CBS. Obama knows that he can deliver his message to more Americans in one Letterman appearance than on all of those Sunday shows combined.
Advocating health care reform, it’ll be Obama’s 6th appearance on Letterman, but his first as a sitting President (though he won’t be making history as he did in March when he became the first sitting President to visit a late-night talker — appearing on Jay Leno’s “Tonight Show” to discuss the economic stimulus package).
If past appearances are any indication, Letterman and Obama can create compelling television. Dave is exceptionally strong with political guests (remember his interview with Al Gore, or his turn with Republican Presidential nominee John McCain after McCain blew off a “Late Show” appearance?) and he has a natural chemistry with Obama.
Look for tonight’s appearance to be different in tone than, say, Obama’s campaign-era “Late Show” outing discussing the Sarah Palin “lipstick on a pig” controversy. Obama was jovial and winning, energetic and easygoing, poking fun at himself, occasionally leaning over and clasping his hand on Letterman’s shoulder in a gesture of camaraderie. When the host asked about Palin’s then-ubiquity, Obama wistfully recalled when he used to be on the cover of Time and Newsweek, joking that he recently received an offer to be a centerfold in Popular Mechanics.
“Take it,” Letterman advised.
When Obama got a little windy, Dave called him on it: “You’re campaigning now, aren’t you?”
But Obama is President now — and he’s embattled and weary over the health care battle — so the tone of the interview is bound to be different. If Letterman can retain his frankness and good humor, it should serve the audience well. Too much chatter about policy minutiae during the President’s Leno appearance might have been informative, but it made for wonky and boring television. And, love him or hate him, it’s hard to make Obama boring on TV, where he normally excels.
You might not like the President’s message, but he knows what he’s doing by going on Letterman to get it across.
Former President Bill Clinton will be Letterman’s guest on Tuesday.
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TV Profile: Crestina Chavez
Each week we hop on the couch to find out what you’re watching. Check back every Monday to see who’s next.
Crestina Chavez
News 8 Austin Evening Anchor
Number of years in this position: 3-1/2 years; at News 8 Austin for almost 7 years.
I love my job because: There’s nothing more intriguing than meeting the characters in Austin that make it such a great place to live. I also love working in the town I grew up in.
Here’s what’s on my DVR: Last season’s final episode of “Lost,” just in case I ever get the urge to make sense of it all; last season’s final episode of “CSI” and “CSI: NY,” I WILL get around to watching them before the season begins; the latest episodes of “Monk” and “Psych”; a ridiculous number of episodes of “Yo Gabba Gabba” and “Little Einsteins” for my 2 year old to enjoy.
My all-time favorite TV show is: “The Dick Van Dyke Show” — classic!
You’ll never catch me watching: I’m not a big fan of reality TV — so no “Bachelor,” “Survivor,” “Fear Factor,” “Amazing Race,” or “America’s Top Model” for me. Having said that, I LOVE “American Idol”!
If I have insomnia, the show that lulls me back to sleep is: I’ll watch reruns of “CSI,” “Law & Order,” or “Law & Order: SVU.” It has to be a rerun or I’ll end up watching it.
A current show I never miss is: Thank goodness for DVR or I’d miss all my shows! My husband and I always watch “The Office,” “Lost” and “24” together. But, my guilty pleasure that I end up watching all by myself … “Grey’s Anatomy”.
If my TV is on, it’s probably tuned to this channel: Probably Channel 875! (The DVR Channel). Seriously, working at night means I have a lot of catching up to do. I watch “News 8 Austin” when I get ready for work. I do watch a ridiculous amount of ESPN.
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September 20, 2009
This week's TV picks
Seth Rogan guest stars as a personal fitness trainer on the season premiere of “The Simpsons.”
Monday:
‘House’ 7 p.m., FOX: Aw, nuts! The season 6 opener finds the good doctor held against his will in a psychiatric facility.
Other season premieres: ‘Heroes’ 7 p.m., NBC; ‘How I Met Your Mother’ 7 p.m., CBS; ‘Accidentally on Purpose’ 7:30 p.m., CBS; ‘Two and a Half Men’ 8 p.m., CBS; ‘The Big Bang Theory’ 8:30 p.m., CBS; ‘Castle’ 9 p.m., ABC; ‘CSI: Miami’ 9 p.m., CBS.
Tuesday:
‘The Good Wife’ 9 p.m., CBS: Julianna Margulies returns to television as a lawyer (anybody remember ‘Canterbury’s Law’?) in one of the fall’s best new dramatic series. Margulies’ Alicia Florrick rejoins the workforce as a junior partner in a Chicago law firm when her corrupt politico husband is jailed.
Other season premieres: ‘NCIS’ 7 p.m., CBS; ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’ 8 p.m., CBS; ‘The Forgotten’ 9 p.m., ABC.
Wednesday:
‘Modern Family’ 8 p.m., ABC: Ed O’Neill is just one standout in the best new comedy of the season, a mockumentary-style, ensemble examination of an extended family with razor-sharp writing and hilarious performances all around.
Other season premieres: ‘Mercy’ 7 p.m., NBC; ‘New Adventures of Old Christine’ 7 p.m., CBS; ‘Gary Unmarried’ 7 p.m., CBS; ‘Law and Order: Special Victims Unit’ 8 p.m., NBC; ‘Criminal Minds’ 8 p.m., CBS; ‘Cougar Town’ 8:30 p.m., ABC; ‘Eastwick’ 9 p.m., ABC; ‘CSI: NY’ 9 p.m., CBS.
Thursday:
‘Flash Forward’ 7 p.m., ABC: The entire population of Earth blacks out for just over 2 minutes, receiving a vision of each of their lives six months in the future in this gripping, trippy sci-fi ride. ‘Lost’ veterans Sonya Walger and Dominic Monaghan appear in this series, strongly influenced by that series.
Other season premieres: ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ 8 p.m., ABC; ‘CSI: Crime Scene Investigation’ 8 p.m., CBS; ‘The Mentalist’ 9 p.m., CBS.
Friday:
‘Dollhouse’ 8 p.m., FOX: Creator Joss Whedon wrote the second season premiere of his unconventional, critically-mixed sci-fi series which really picked up steam in the second half of it’s freshman year.
Other season premieres: ‘Brothers’ 7 p.m., FOX; ‘Law and Order’ 7 p.m., NBC; ‘Ghost Whisperer’ 7 p.m., CBS; ‘Smallville’ 7 p.m., The CW; ‘Medium’ 8 p.m., CBS; ‘Num3ers’ 9 p.m., CBS.
Saturday:
‘Saturday Night Live’ 10:30 p.m., NBC: Live from New York, the ubiquitous Megan Fox hosts the sketch comedy show’s 35th season opener with musical guest U2.
Sunday:
‘The Simpsons’ 7 p.m., FOX: Seth Rogen co-wrote and stars in the 21st season opener as a personal trainer who whips Homer into shape for his role in Comic Book Guy’s superhero film, ‘Everyman’.
Other season premieres: ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’ 6 p.m., ABC; ‘Amazing Race 15’ 7 p.m., CBS; ‘The Cleveland Show’ 7:30 p.m., FOX; ‘Family Guy’ 8 p.m., FOX; ‘Desperate Housewives’ 8 p.m., ABC; ‘American Dad’ 8:30 p.m., FOX; ‘Brothers and Sisters’ 9 p.m., ABC; ‘Cold Case’ 9 p.m., CBS.
‘The National Parks: America’s Best Idea’ 7 p.m., PBS: Ken Burns’ history of America’s national parks begins in 1851 in California’s Yosemite Valley.
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September 18, 2009
'Guiding Light' goes out today
The “Guiding Light” gets extinguished today. The winner of 69 daytime Emmy awards over 72 years, the low-rated soap opera is one of the last of the fading genre to go.
The show’s dwindling fan base has remained dedicated. A solicitation for readers’ thoughts on the cancellation resulted in a pile of e-mail messages from fans, including several profiled in this recent column.
The final episode of “Guiding Light” airs today at 2 p.m. on CBS. If you miss it (or desire communal closure for the saga of the Bauer, Lewis, Cooper and Spaulding clans) the Alamo Drafthouse is hosting a final episode watching party at its Village location tonight at 10 p.m.
Here is a promo for the final episode:
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September 17, 2009
Time Warner launches Hispanic programming package
Time Warner Cable has launched El Paquetazo, a Hispanic programming package that includes a basic service tier of channels (ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, Telemundo and Univision, among them) as well as “English Plus” programming from networks such as Animal Planet, CMT, ESPN, ESPN2, Food Network and Travel Channel, according to Multichannel News. It also offers Music Choice, video on demand and high-definition channels.
Information about the package, which was previously made available in Los Angeles and New York City, can be found on Time Warner’s El Paquetazo site. Warning: There a short, looping clip of borderline-offensive, stereotypical mariachi music, but there’s a button you can click to turn off the sound.
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Review: "Community" (NBC)
(Left to right) Yvette Nicole Brown as Shirley, Danny Pudi as Abed, Gillian Jacobs as Britta, Joe McHale as Jeff, Alison Brie as Annie, Chevy Chase as Pierce, Donald Glover as Troy in “Community.” NBC Photo: Paul Drinkwater
Have you spent any time at a community college? Talk about a melting pot … all ages, races and economic backgrounds welcome. If there’s a better setting for a half-hour sitcom, I can’t imagine what it would be.
The creators of “Community,” the newest addition to NBC’s powerhouse Thursday night comedy line-up, have mined that setting for laughs and wrapped them around charismatic Joel McHale, host of E!’s “The Soup.”
Tonight’s episode does a good job of introducing the characters, including McHale’s scheming Jeff Winger, a former lawyer whose license was revoked when his college degree came into question: “I thought you got a degree from Columbia?” his friend and client — and Greendale Community College head — asks. “Yes. And now I have to get one from America,” Winger replies. “And it can’t be just an e-mail attachment.”
The dialogue is snappy and the characters are diverse, including “The Daily Show’s” John Oliver as the ethically bound leader and a surprisingly tolerable Chevy Chase as moist towelette fortune heir Pierce. Characters that sound problematic in theory, such as Danny Pudi’s Abed, who has trouble differentiating between movies and real life (he can’t help but compare Winger’s faux study group to “The Breakfast Club”) really work well within “Community’s” twisted community. Pretty Gillian Jacobs — Abed can’t get past her resemblance to Elisabeth Shue — is a formidable foil for Winger as the street-smart object of his obsessive, slightly creepy affection.
If the name Winger sounds familiar, it might be because McHale’s misdirected character — it’s hard to call him a slacker when he works so hard on his schemes — is a direct descendant of Bill Murray’s John Winger from “Stripes.” “Community” shares (or, I guess, steals) much of that film’s comic sensibility.
You won’t see him tonight, but watch next week for Ken Jeong (King Argotron from “Role Models”) as scene-stealing Senor Chang, an Asian Spanish teacher with a hilarious chip on his shoulder.
“Community” airs at 8:30 p.m. on NBC. Tonight’s episode: B Next week’s episode: B+
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September 16, 2009
Susan Boyle on 'America's Got Talent' finale tonight
Remember Susan Boyle? For seven weeks this spring it was hard to escape her. We couldn’t watch the demure, now 48-year-old Scottish singing sensation storm “Britain’s Got Talent,” but we couldn’t avoid the links and forwards of her amazing performances from YouTube.
Boyle went on to take 2nd place in that competition but, according to people.com, her other wish, to perform in America, will come true tonight. Boyle is slated to appear on the season finale of “America’s Got Talent” at 7 p.m. on NBC.
People reports that Boyle’s first album is set to drop on Nov. 24. In the meantime, here’s Boyle’s “Britain’s Got Talent” audition for old time’s sake:
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September 15, 2009
Swayze tributes to air on A&E, Hallmark Movie Channel
A&E, home of “The Beast,” Patrick Swayze’s recent television series, will pay tribute to the actor Wednesday, Sept. 16 with a special presentation of “Bio Remembers: Patrick Swayze” at 9 p.m. CT and a marathon of “The Beast” from 1-5 p.m. EST/PST along with an encore showing of “The Beast” at 10 p.m., according to The Futon Critic. Swayze died Sept. 14 from pancreatic cancer at the age of 57.
Hallmark Movie Channel HD is honoring Swayze with multiple encore performances of his 2004 Hallmark Channel miniseries, “King Solomon’s Mines.” The programs will air Saturday, Sept. 19 from 5-9 p.m. CT and Sunday, Sept. 20 from 1-5 p.m.
“We are saddened by the loss of one of our generation’s greatest talents and a member of the A&E family,” said Bob DeBitetto, President & General Manager, A&E Network, in a network press release. “Patrick’s work on ‘The Beast’ was an inspiration to us all. He will be greatly missed and our thoughts are with his wife Lisa and his entire family during this difficult time.”
Swayze’s biography.com bio can be found here.
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KEYE kicks off 'We Are Austin Live' at 4 p.m. today
Co-hosts Jason Wheeler and Michelle Valles rehearse the opening of “We Are Austin Live.” (weareaustin.com photo)
Austin CBS affiliate KEYE kicks off its new lifestyle show, “We Are Austin Live,” today at 4 p.m. The show stars former morning show co-anchor Michelle Valles and Jason Wheeler, former weekend news anchor. The show was originally slated to debut Monday, Sept. 14, but was delayed a day due to televised tennis.
“It is unlike any other show I’ve ever worked on in my 11 year television career,” Valles wrote in her blog. “We were given some talk orders to create fun-paced show using limited resources. And our production crew has done a fabulous job rolling with the punches. It is going to be a great time.”
Valles told me the show would focus on lifestyle subjects and community events. “We are taking a major leap of faith,” she said, “but knowing our personalities it is going to be a lot of fun! And it’s going to look different; we are going to dress very casual and hip, and there will be very little news.”
Is now the right time for less news and more entertainment? Take a look today and let me know what you think.
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Patrick Swayze and Chris Farley are workin' for the weekend
If there’s an afterlife, I like to think Patrick Swayze and Chris Farley are giving a command performance of this classic “Saturday Night Live” sketch and Phil Hartman is watching and busting a gut:
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Review: The Jay Leno Show
Well that was … uneventful — safe, pleasant enough, not hilarious — yep, Jay is back.
Jay Leno’s new, nightly prime-time comedy show debuted Monday night and it was a lot like Jay Leno’s old, late-night comedy show. Oh, the desk and couch were gone (replaced with two easy chairs) and Leno did his popular “headlines” segment at the end of the show instead of the beginning, but otherwise, you’d hardly know the difference.
The show opened on a particularly low-key note that failed to live up to the hype. Jay was announced, walked out and slapped hands with a few audience members standing at the foot of the stage. They then awkwardly returned to their seats (weird) while the host delivered a standard-issue, topical monologue. A taped “Cheaters” segment with Leno confronting his band leader Kevin Eubanks (cavorting in the park with a Leno look-alike) was one of the funnier pieces of the night, although it had an odd, homophobic undercurrent.
The segment with musical comedians The Dan Band (“The Hangover”) was really long, as they serenaded a young woman while her car was washed. That bit was marginally funny, but it’s going to get old fast (and, frankly, it seemed more “Conan” than Jay, except Conan would have done it himself instead of sending out hired guns).
I like Jerry Seinfeld (he’s hilarious later this season on HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm”) but I have to admit I agreed with his confession to Jay that, when he heard that Jay had chosen him as his first guest, he was a bit disappointed. As the tuxedo-clad Seinfeld put it, “I haven’t been on TV in 11 years.” Jerry had a few good lines: referring to Leno’s return, the comic said, “In the ’90s, when we quit a show, we actually left. But not in the Brett Favre, Lance Armstrong double o’s.” Jay asked Jerry leading questions that allowed the comic to launch into a few well-rehearsed bits, including parts of his stand up routine and a short segment with Oprah Winfrey that was more than a little too obvious.
A faux interview with President Barack Obama that spliced Jay’s questions with answers from an actual Obama appearance (pretty lame but technically well-done) was followed by Kanye West, who caused a stir Monday night by stealing the spotlight from Taylor Swift at the MTV Video Music Awards. Leno practically made the contrite musical guest cry by asking him how his mother would have reacted to the VMA incident, then immediately and enthusiastically asked him if he was ready to sing. Nice, Jay. And by nice, I mean nice and awkward. This is the kind of situation that David Letterman deals with really well; Leno just wasn’t up to it.
The most interesting thing that happened all night was that KXAN cut smack into the middle of West’s performance (with Jay-Z and Rihanna) to promote its upcoming newscast’s top stories, then cut back to the end of the song. I’m assuming it was a timing glitch, but after watching the show I wouldn’t blame the station for wanting to grab any remaining viewers before they fell asleep (and besides, there’s something poetically just about West’s moment in the spotlight getting interrupted). NBC affiliates across the country are worried about Leno providing a weak lead-in to their local newscasts and I now think that fear is justified. “The Jay Leno Show” had little competition tonight, going up against reruns and movies. But the fall season is here and it’ll be up against real programming soon.
The show-closing “headlines” segment scared me for a minute: Jay used to do this piece at the top of the show and, for a second, I was afraid that I’d have to sit through another 40 minutes or so.
I’m not a big Leno fan and I’ll admit that I did not go into Monday’s debut with high hopes. That said, Jay didn’t even meet my low expectations. Twitter commentary was brutal: “You couldn’t pay me to watch Leno every night. He’s the least funny thing on TV,” one Austin Twitterer wrote during the show. “It’s just boring. Missed first part of monolog. So far haven’t seen anything funny. If Seinfeld isn’t on soon, it’s good bye Jay,” another local tweet read. But Jay’s not going anywhere. The show is cheap to produce and doesn’t need to win its time slot to be considered successful.
That’s the financial bottom line. The bottom line for viewers is this: if you liked “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” (and a lot of people did) you’ll probably like “The Jay Leno Show.” If you weren’t a fan before, there’s nothing new here. Move along.
Did you watch the show? Will you tune in again? Sound off!
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September 14, 2009
Was Kanye's outburst a Leno 'Swift'-boating?
So, Kanye West was Kanye West last night and the Twittersphere exploded.
Call me jaded, but I wouldn’t be surprised if his outburst, in which he grabbed the microphone (and spotlight) from country crooner Taylor Swift — who had just been awarded MTV’s Moon man trophy for Best Female Video — to extol the virtues of a competing video from Beyonce Knowles, was just a big publicity stunt.
After all, West is appearing on Jay Leno’s new prime-time comedy hour (debuting at 9 p.m. tonight on NBC) and the network has been doing a lot of unusual promotion for Leno, including his awkward and terribly unfunny interview with Bob Costas during Sunday night’s dismal Bears/Packers NFL match up. My U-verse feed froze up for almost two minutes during that game; unfortunately it was during a particularly exciting drive and not during the Costas/Leno train wreck.
At the very least, you can bet Leno’s writers are champing at the bit to reference West’s obnoxious grandstanding in some way tonight. Will Jay let Swift interrupt West’s performance? Will you be watching? I will, and I’ll be tweeting throughout the program (and probably commenting on Facebook).
You can friend me on Facebook here and follow me on Twitter here.
Then check back here on the TV Blog Tuesday morning for my thoughts on Jay’s new show, and be sure to leave your own.
Here’s MTV’s video of West’s outburst:
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September 13, 2009
This week's TV picks
FOX gets ‘Glee’ful on Wednesday nights.
Monday:
‘Jay Leno Show’ 9 p.m., NBC: Jay’s new, nightly prime time gig gets an easy launch tonight with first guest Jerry Seinfeld and little competition from the other networks, which are either airing movies or reruns. Jay-Z, Kanye West and Rihanna perform.
Tuesday:
‘Biggest Loser’ 7 p.m., NBC: The peacock network’s fall rollout continues with a firefighter, a military wife and this show’s heaviest contestant ever among season 8’s 16 contestants.
‘Melrose Place’ 8 p.m., The CW: Prostitution! Career clawing! Secrets and intrigue! No, not a repeat!
Wednesday:
‘The Beautiful Life: TBL’ 8 p.m., The CW: From the mind of Ashton Kutcher (hee! I love saying that) comes a saga of backstabbing in the world of modeling. The CW may be trying to brand this show “TBL,” but I’m just calling it “Melrose Face.”
‘Glee’ 8 p.m., FOX: Are y’all still watching this show? I’m already on the fence and Josh Groban’s appearance tonight might not help. The kids go behind Will’s back for a choreography coach while he’s busy with a new all-male a cappella group.
Thursday:
Comedy premieres 7-9 p.m., NBC: The funniest night in network comedy arrives with the season debuts of ‘Saturday Night Live Weekend Update Thursday’ (whew!) at 7 p.m.; ‘Parks and Recreation’ at 7:30 (okay, so not every NBC Thursday show is funny); ‘The Office’ at 8 p.m. and Joel McHale’s ‘Community’ at 8:30 p.m.
‘Survivor: Samoa’ 7 p.m., CBS: Are y’all still watching this show? Season 19 places the contestants in this South Pacific Island nation and, simultaneously, makes me feel really, really old.
‘Fringe’ 8 p.m., FOX: Season 2 pulls a ‘24’ by placing Olivia and the gang under Congressional scrutiny for their weird investigations (and lack of results). The mind-bending season 1 finale is kind of explained, and there’s a ‘don’t sneeze or you’ll miss it’ shout-out to ‘The X-Files’.
Friday:
‘2009 ALMA Awards’ 7 p.m., ABC: A tribute to Ricardo Montalban caps off the 14th annual American Latino Media Arts Awards honoring Hispanic achievement in movies, music, sports and television. Eva Longoria Parker and George Lopez host.
Saturday:
‘College Football: Texas Tech at Texas’ 7:07 p.m., ABC: It’s the Longhorns! And it’s not on pay-per-view! Tech won last year, but the Longhorns look to increase their all-time series-winning total to 44 tonight.
Sunday:
‘61st Primetime Emmy Awards’ 7 p.m., CBS: ’30 Rock’ and ‘Mad Men’ are the leading contenders in a ceremony that might actually be entertaining — ‘How I Met Your Mother’s’ Neil Patrick Harris, who was so good as emcee for The Tony Awards, hosts.
Pay cable series premieres, 8-9 p.m., HBOe: ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ finds Larry unhappily (surprise) living with Loretta in this episode featuring a great guest-star turn by Catherine O’Hara. ‘Bored to Death’ (8:30 p.m.) stars laconic Jason Schwartzman as a frustrated writer who moonlights, via Craigslist, as an ‘unlicensed private detective.’ Ted Danson and Zach Galifianakis co-star.
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September 11, 2009
'M*A*S*H' creator Larry Gelbart dead at age 81
The Hollywood Reporter and other news outlets are reporting that Larry Gelbart, creator of the television series “MASH,” has died.
The article says Gelbart’s wife, Pat, told the Los Angeles Times in June that her husband had been diagnosed with cancer in June. The Emmy and Tony winner — and Oscar nominee — was 81.
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'Vampire Diaries' sinks its teeth into viewers
The CW is justifiably proud of the ratings garnered by its premiere of “The Vampire Diaries” Thursday night. The show took off like a bat out of, well, you know. Setting a record for the most-watched CW premiere ever, the teen-based supernatural drama scored 4.84 million viewers, beating ABC and FOX.
The CW seems to have jumped on the vampire bandwagon at just the right time: anticipation is high for the second “Twilight” movie and ratings for HBO’s “True Blood” have exploded.
It will be interesting to see if the angsty love story can hold onto those viewers — the first episode played like “Twilight” lite (I’ve seen it referred to as “Dawson’s Creek” with fangs).
Did you watch “Vampire Diaries?” Will you tune in for further entries?
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September 10, 2009
On Ellen, "Idol" and Rep. Joe Wilson
Ellen DeGeneres is the new, permanent, fourth “American Idol” judge.
I guess I should have blogged this last night, but I wanted to let it sit for a while. Frankly, I’m still not sure how I feel about it. Ellen’s been on ‘Idol” before (back when the show was popular enough to have to “give back”) and I’ve been a fan ever since her earliest television appearances on stand-up specials and the short-lived sitcom “Open House,” but something doesn’t seem right about this.
“Idol” has tried comedy before and failed (remember Brian Dunkleman?). And I’ve got to wonder how a comic’s advice is going to help the contestants. Still, maybe it’s a good idea to place a truly funny, actually gay person on the panel so that Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest can stop slathering each other with juvenile, offensive, accusatory “you’re gay!” “no, you’re gay” innuendo. If that happens, I’m on board.
In any event, I want to go on the record as saying that I think it was a bad political move for Rep. Joe Wilson to shout “You lie!” last night after Sen. John McCain leaned over and whispered the DeGeneres/”Idol” gossip into his ear. There’s just no place for that during a Presidential address.
The Twittersphere seems to be reacting to the Ellen news positively. What do you think?
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Attend KLRU screening, join in the discussion
The public is invited to visit the KLRU studios for the kick off of the station’s Community Screenings project at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15. The evening will feature a special presentation of “Latin Music USA.”
KLRU has designed the Community Screenings project to use television programs as a vehicle to spur discussion around important topics. Each month, KLRU invites the community to come together to get a sneak peak at an upcoming show or series and to get a chance to connect with others.
“Latin Music USA” tells the story of the rise of new American music — from Latin jazz and mambo to salsa, Tejano, Chicano rock, Latin pop and reggaeton — forged from powerful Latin roots. It reveals the often overlooked influence of Latin music on jazz, hip hop, rhythm and blues and rock ‘n’ roll — and on all of American culture. Immediately following the screening, Michael Crockett, host of KUT’s “Horizontes;” Rich Garza, co-founder of the Pachanga! Festival; and musician David Garza will discuss Austin’s Latin Music scene.
The documentary will be broadcast on KLRU in October as part of Hispanic Heritage Month.
The free screening begins at 7 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. To RSVP (required), visit KLRU’s site here.
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September 8, 2009
Here's when your favorite shows return
Sure, the shiny, new shows get all the hype. But what about the old reliables? Our TV buddies who’ve been around for years or our conquering heroes, who beat the odds and made it back for a second or third season? Here’s an alphabetical list of series returning to network, basic cable and pay cable networks:
NETWORKS; BASIC CABLE
‘30 Rock’ (NBC)
Returns: Thursday, Oct. 15
‘90210’ (The CW)
Returns: Tuesday, Sept. 8
‘American Dad’ (FOX)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘America’s Next Top Model’ (The CW)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 9
‘Bones’ (FOX)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17
‘Brothers & Sisters’ (ABC)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘Castle’ (ABC)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘Cold Case’ (CBS)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘Criminal Minds’ (CBS)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 23
‘CSI’ (CBS)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 24
‘CSI: Miami’ (CBS)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘CSI: NY’ (CBS)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 23
‘Dancing With the Stars’ (ABC)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘Desperate Housewives’ (ABC)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘Dollhouse’ (FOX)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 25
‘Family Guy’ (FOX)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘Friday Night Lights’ (DirecTV)
Returns: Wednesday, Oct. 28
‘Fringe’ (FOX)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17
‘Gary Unmarried’ (CBS)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 23
‘Ghost Whisperer’ (CBS)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 25
‘Glee’ (FOX)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 9
‘Gossip Girl’ (The CW)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 14
‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (ABC)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 24
‘Heroes’ (NBC)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘House’ (FOX)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘How I Met Your Mother’ (CBS)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’ (FX)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17
‘Law & Order’ (NBC)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 25
‘Law & Order: SVU’ (NBC)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 23
‘Lie to Me’ (FOX)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 28
‘Lincoln Heights’ (ABC Family)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 14
‘Medium’ (CBS — new network)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 25
‘NCIS’ (CBS)
Returns: Tuesday, Sept. 22
‘New Adventures of Old Christine’ (CBS)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 23
‘Nip/Tuck’ (FX)
Returns: Wednesday, Oct. 14
‘Numb3rs’ (CBS)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 25
‘One Tree Hill’ (The CW)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 14
‘Parks and Recreation’ (NBC)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17
‘Private Practice’ (ABC)
Returns: Thursday, Oct. 1
‘Smallville’ (The CW)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 25
‘So You Think You Can Dance’ (FOX)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 9
‘Sons of Anarchy’ (FX)
Returns: Tuesday, Sept. 8
‘Southland’ (NBC)
Returns: Friday, Oct. 23
‘Supernatural’ (The CW)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 10
‘Survivor: Samoa’ (CBS)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17
‘The Big Bang Theory’ (CBS)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘The Biggest Loser’ (NBC)
Returns: Tuesday, Sept. 15
‘The Mentalist’ (CBS)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 24
‘The Office’ (NBC)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17
‘The Simpsons’ (FOX)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘Til Death’ (FOX)
Returns: Friday, Oct. 2
‘Two and a Half Men’ (CBS)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘Ugly Betty’ (ABC)
Returns: Friday, Oct. 9
PAY CABLE
‘Californication’ (Showtime)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘Crash’ (Starz)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 18
‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ (HBO)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 20
‘Dexter’ (Showtime)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
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September 7, 2009
TV Profile: Quita Culpepper
You might know them, but do you know what they watch? This week we hop on the couch with our first KVUE victim. Check back each Monday to see who’s next.
KVUE Reporter/Weekend Daybreak Anchor
Number of years in this position: almost 11 years (I started at KVUE in Nov. 1998). Time flies when you’re having fun!
I love my job because: I’m a storyteller at heart — not only do I get to bring interesting, compelling issues to the forefront, I get to meet so many great people, and every day is something new and different
Here’s what’s on my DVR: Iron Chef, Dr. Who, Being Human and The Soup
My all-time favorite TV show is: Family Guy — funny, raunchy genius!
You’ll never catch me watching: Jon and Kate Plus 8
If I have insomnia, the show that lulls me back to sleep is: A golf tournament. Zzzzzzzz
A current show I never miss is: Private Practice
If my TV is on, it’s probably tuned to: BBC America or the Food Network
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September 6, 2009
Labor Day TV marathons
Our friend Charlie over at Interesting Pile has posted a list of television marathons being aired this Labor Day weekend. We’re a little late in getting this posted (Charlie’s had it up for days) but you might want to check it out — there are 28 marathons tomorrow alone.
Thanks Charlie!
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This week's TV picks
The pretty people of The CW’s “Melrose Place.”
Monday
‘Unwrapped’ 8 p.m., FOOD: Grab a cup of coffee and check out this discussion on donuts, including Krispy Kremes and Mrs. Baird’s. I don’t see anything about my precious Round Rock donuts here, but that’s okay — more for me!
Tuesday
‘Get Schooled: You Have The Right’ 7 p.m., TVLAND, COMEDY, SPIKE, BET, LOGO, NICK, MTV, MTV2, MTV3, MTV-U, VH1, CMT, CMTP: Whew! That’s a lot of networks for one program, but this one’s worth it. Kelly Clarkson and LeBron James discuss the importance of education to their success. Also covered is the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s “Get Schooled” initiative, developed with Viacom, which addresses problems in America’s public schools. Find more information at www.getschooled.com.
‘Melrose Place’ 8 p.m., The CW: Yay! The Fall TV season is officially here! Finally. Didn’t it seem like it was never going to arrive? It’s been a long, long summer. Oh, right … ‘Melrose Place’. Dead bodies. Sex. Laura Leighton. Trashy fun.
Wednesday
‘So You Think You Can Dance’ 7 p.m., FOX: 6th season premiere finds hopefuls showing the crazy legs in Boston.
‘America’s Next Top Model’ 7 p.m., The CW: ‘ANTM’ features a shorter season in it’s 13th year: each of the 14 contenders is under 5’7”.
‘Glee’ 8 p.m., FOX: Okay, so we all saw the premiere months ago. The much-hyped musical comedy’s season really kicks off tonight with the show’s second episode, featuring the glee club’s unexpectedly racy first public performance.
Thursday
‘Vampire Diaries’ 7 p.m., The CW: Did I mention that the Fall season is here? “Lost’s” Boone, Ian Somerhalder, plays the bad boy in this new-pernatural series about two Vampire brothers fighting over an orphaned high-schooler.
‘Fringe’ 8 p.m., FOX: In its new time slot, this repeat of the first season finale ends with the single most stunning and surprising camera shot of any entertainment series from last season, and sets up what should be a great sophomore effort.
‘I Was Bitten’ 9 p.m., Discovery: No, this doesn’t have anything to do with ‘The Vampire Diaries’. It’s actually, appropriately enough, a show about people who have been bitten by tigers, snakes and elephants. Man, I would not want to be bitten by an elephant — not only is that probably a huge chunk out of you, but I’ll bet the wound smells like peanuts.
Friday
‘Dog Whisperer’ 8 p.m., NGC: The host works with problematic dogs at an office. Hmm … I wonder if there’s a co-worker whisperer?
Saturday
‘Lightning Strikes’ 8 p.m., Syfy: A monster rides a lightning bolt to Earth and causes a lot of problems. I hope this isn’t a documentary.
Sunday
‘King of the Hill’ 7 p.m., FOX: Bye-bye Hank, Bobby and Peggy. There’s competition for Bobby’s hand to the homecoming dance in the finale of this venerable animated series set in fictional Arlen, Texas.
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September 3, 2009
Austin's Mehcad Brooks joins ABC legal drama
Mehcad Brooks, the former Austinite who appeared as a regular cast member on the just-ending second season of the HBO vampire drama “True Blood,” has signed onto “The Deep End,” an ABC mid-season legal drama.
Brooks, a graduate of Anderson High School, previously appeared on television in “Boston Public,” “Desperate Housewives,” “The Game” and “Dollhouse,” and has been seen in movies including “In the Valley of Elah” and “Glory Road.”
On “The Deep End,” Brooks will play Malcolm Bennet, an associate at the program’s fictional L.A. law firm.
Does this mean the actor’s “True Blood” character, Benedict “Eggs” Talley,” is on his way out? I hope so. The “zombie” arc that has dominated the second half of the season has been fun (and increasing viewership has certainly raised Brooks’ profile) but it’s wearing out its welcome. It will be nice to see the actor in a role where he can stretch out a little.
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September 2, 2009
JB & Sandy bringing their act to KEYE-TV
UPDATE: Michelle Valles is posting, via Facebook, that KEYE morning co-anchor Fred Cantu will be assigned to KEYE partner Telemundo. Valles announced last week, in a similar fashion, that she would be leaving the KEYE morning newscast to co-host a 4 p.m. lifestyle show with weekend anchor Jason Wheeler.
Details to follow.
==============
Austin’s award-winning morning radio talk show “JB and Sandy in the Morning” will be aired on KEYE-TV live every morning beginning October 5. KEYE-TV cameras will be in the studio every morning with the talk show hosts for the first hour (6am  7am) of their four-hour radio show.
Here is KEYE’s press release:
Austin, Texas (September 2, 2009) - KEYE-TV, the CBS affiliate serving the Austin market, announced today that it has entered into an agreement with Entercom Communications and KAMX-FM “Mix 94.7” to launch Austin’s first television broadcast of the JB and Sandy in the Morning radio show beginning October 5, 2009 at 6:00 am CT on Channel 42.
Amy Villarreal, President and General Manager of KEYE, commented, “As most of our viewers are aware, Austin has four great television news morning shows that are all essentially the same. Through KEYE¹s unique partnership with Entercom, KAMX, and the JB and Sandy radio morning show, we will offer our early morning Central Texas viewers and advertisers an innovative, entertaining approach to morning television.”
JB and Sandy in the Morning launched in January 1996 and is hosted by morning team personalities JB and Sandy, sidekick Alex Franco (Digitz) and features Sara Osburn and Cassiday Proctor. The award-winning show has emerged as a leading radio morning show in Austin with its compelling blend of humor, reality and listener involvement and interaction and airs weekday mornings from 6:00 am to 10:00 am on Mix 94.7 and worldwide at mix947.com.
During the KEYE-TV television broadcasts, KEYE¹s morning meteorologist Kelly Slifka will provide live local weather and traffic updates from the KEYE-TV studios.
In addition to hosting one of Austin’s leading morning shows, JB and Sandy have used the show as a platform to underscore their commitment to community service and their loyal listeners. Over the past 12 years, their “Bikes for Kids” program has raised more than one million dollars and put more than 10,000 new bicycles in the hands of Central Texas children in need. Recently, they raised $600,000 for a Child Life Activity Center on the oncology floor of the Dell Children¹s Hospital.
“There are only a handful of radio personalities across the country that engage their listeners, serve their communities and deliver superior advertiser results like JB and Sandy,” said Nancy Vaeth-DuBroff, Vice-President & Market Manager for Entercom Austin. “Partnering with KEYE-TV and CBS will allow JB and Sandy to reach a larger audience, thus benefiting our valuable advertisers, listeners and viewers and the local Austin community.”
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SNL welcomes two new female cast members
“Saturday Night Live” cast member Bill Hader has confirmed the rumors that the venerable sketch comedy show, entering its 35th season in a couple of weeks, has hired two relatively unknown, female cast members.
Jenny Slate has performed all over New York, from a one-woman show at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre to improv shows in the East Village and Williamsburg, according to MTV.com, while Iranian-born Nasim Pedrad staged a one-woman show in Las Vegas and has performed with the Groundlings.
Megan Fox hosts and legendary band U2 provides the music when ‘SNL’ returns on Sept. 26.
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Ryan Seacrest wants to hear your dreams
Got a dream?
Is it extraordinary? Selfless? Off the wall?
Need money to make it happen?
Producer Ryan Seacrest (he really is the new Dick Clark!) is holding an open casting call in Austin on Saturday, Sept. 12, to hear your pitches for a new cable network show called “Chance.”
“Is there something you’ve always wanted but could never quite afford?” Seacrest’s press release reads. “Do you have a lifelong ambition that you are desperate to fulfill? We’re looking for people 14+ to come up with unique, inspiring, outlandish and exciting ideas! If you need money and want your dreams to come true, come plead your case at one of our open calls. Whether you’re asking for $50 or $250,000 — if you’ve got passion and the gift of gab, the money could be yours!! You can literally ask for anything!!!”
(My dream is to be able to purchase more exclamation points, since I just used the last 50 I had quoting Seacrest’s press release.)
The ‘American Idol’ host’s peeps are only making five stops nationwide and our city is on the list, so maybe your odds are pretty good. The Austin stop will be Sept. 12 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the YMCA Town Lake Branch, 1100 W. Cesar Chavez St.
Make sure to check out the show’s Web site before you go; there’s an application form there and a list of required items you must bring with you.
Happy begging!
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September 1, 2009
Bush twin nabs NBC correspondent slot
Pop quiz: which member of the Bush family has parlayed a natural ability to communicate and connect with people into a spell in the national spotlight?
According to Jim Bell, executive producer of NBC’s “Today,” that’d be Bush twin Jenna Bush Hager, who has been hired as a contributing correspondent for the popular morning news and talk program.
“She has great passion about important subjects, especially education and literacy,” Bell says, according to news agency Reuters.
Bush Hager, a University of Texas graduate and school teacher who has authored two New York Times best sellers and is currently the Young Leadership Ambassador & Chair for UNICEF’s Next Generation committee will begin her “Today” gig on Sept. 14.
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August 30, 2009
This week's TV picks
Andy and Dwight keep each other company at the company picnic on “The Office.”
Monday:
‘CMA Music Festival: Country’s Night to Rock’ 7 p.m., ABC: Featured performers include Trace Adkins, Martina McBride, The Judds and Kid Rock. Everybody — sing along with me: ‘One of these things is not like the others …’
‘The Soup Presents’ 9 p.m., E!: This episode spotlights TV’s most dysfunctional couples, including Jon and Kate Gosselin, and Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa. Wow. I’m not sure which of those pairs should feel most insulted.
Tuesday:
‘Warehouse 13’ 8 p.m., Syfy: An artifact helps Claudia change a light bulb, which reminds me of a hundred old jokes.
‘Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien’ 10:30 p.m., NBC: Tonight Conan welcomes Norm MacDonald and Cheap Trick, two of my favorite things that won’t go away.
Wednesday:
‘Glee’ 7:58 p.m., FOX: In case you missed the hugely popular pilot episode of this new fall series, here’s your chance to catch up. It kinda’ goes downhill from here, but this episode’s a winner. Also, in case you skipped over the time, it starts at 7:58 p.m., so don’t miss the first two minutes.
‘Man vs. Wild’ 8 p.m., Discovery: Bear tests his survival skills in Texas’ Chihuahuan Desert. I hope he brings some Milk Bones.
Thursday:
‘The Office’ 8 p.m., NBC: The season 5 closer takes place at the Dunder Mifflin company picnic. In the midst of a fiercely competitive volleyball game, Michael has a sweet reunion with his former love, Holly.
Friday:
‘Making Over America with Trinny and Susannah’ 9 p.m., TLC: Apparently, in order to be a co-host on this makeover show (tonight working miracles on a frumpy Delaware innkeeper) you’ve got to have two n’s in the middle of your name.
‘Catch It Keep It’ 9 p.m., Science: An Xbox must be saved from flaming projectiles, a gasoline-soaked floor and a runaway car. Hmm. I just have to keep my teenage boy’s Xbox safe from soda cans, half-eaten Pop-Tarts and dirty socks.
Saturday:
‘Country Fried Home Videos’ 7 p.m., CMT: In one segment, a pigeon tricks a turtle. Hey, I’d like to sympathize, but anybody who doesn’t know how devious turtles can be just deserves what they get.
Sunday:
‘Amazing Wedding Cakes’ 9 p.m., WE: A bride wants her cake to match her dress. Somebody save me a piece of the train.
‘Reality Hell’ 9:30 p.m., E!: The title of this show is just redundant. That’s right; I went there. Seriously … is the fall season here yet?
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August 29, 2009
Be an extra on 'Friday Night Lights'
OnlocationCating.net has put out the call for “Friday Night Lights” extras from the Austin area. The company is seeking to fill its general extras and featured extras positions with new faces who have never worked on the show before.
Specifically sought are:
• African American men, women and children, all ages
• Hispanic men, women and children, all ages
• Football players: 18-23 years old, all ethnicities especially African American and Hispanic, young looking, athletic, football experience helpful but not required, must know how to put on pads and uniform
• Pop Warner/Pee Wee football players: 5-12 years old, African American, some football playing experience is helpful
• Cheerleaders & dance team: female, 18-23 years old, all ethnicities especially African American and Hispanic, cute
• African American and Hispanic coaches: 28-60, athletic, previous coaching experience helpful but not required
All positions are paid, the company says.
Also sought are general extras (fans, teachers, students, restaurant patrons, townspeople, etc.). These roles are open to all ages and ethnicities, especially African Americans and Hispanics. No experience is required.
More information and application information can be found on the company’s Web site.
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August 27, 2009
A&E Television acquires Lifetime
ABC News reports that A&E Television Networks is poised to acquire Lifetime Entertainment Services.
The A&E brand is owned by Disney-ABC, Hearst and NBC Universal.
The new venture will retain the A&E name and will include the A&E Network; History; Lifetime Television; Lifetime Movie Network; Bio; History International; Lifetime Real Women; History en Español; Military History; and Crime & Investigation Network.
ABC News has the whole story here.
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August 26, 2009
Snakes on a cane? 'House' drew that.
Leave it to a doctor to go viral. A curmudgeonly doctor named “House.”
A few weeks ago, I received a t-shirt in the mail with the symbol you see here, now commonly being referred to as “snakes on a cane.” No press release, no explanation … just the shirt. It didn’t take me long to put 2 and 2 together: I immediately thought of Hugh Laurie’s character on the popular FOX show.
But then I kind of dismissed the notion. Why would such a successful franchise, going into its 6th season, need a viral marketing campaign?
“We were really able to hit a wide range of people,” news service Reuters quotes Fox’s executive vice president of marketing and communications, Joe Earley, as saying. ” ‘House’ doesn’t need a teaser campaign, but given how brilliant it is, it’s intrigued people in a new way.”
The venture, which began with the introduction of the cleverly cryptic symbol (originally sketched by Laurie himself!) has included short, strange ads on FOX, chalk-drawn sidewalk renderings of the icon, print ads and, of course, t-shirts. Reuters says the campaign will culminate when a vintage ambulance marked with the symbol broadcasts show information on the streets of Los Angeles.
It’s smart, no doubt, but it seems like a lot of time, effort and money for a solid performer that’s not going anywhere.
Catch the 2-hour season premiere of “House,” which finds our doctor in the wrong side of a psychiatric hospital, Sept. 21 at 7 p.m. on FOX. The new season’s Web site is snakesonacane.com.
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August 25, 2009
Paula Abdul lands new hosting gig
This just in: America is officially running out of divas.
Returning after a four-year break, “VH1 Divas,” which has featured appearances by Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey and others — will return next month with a less stellar lineup, according to MTV.com.
September’s card includes Kelly Clarkson, Miley Cyrus, Adele, Leona Lewis and Jordin Sparks.
Miley Cyrus? Jordin Sparks? Isn’t this a little like that “Saturday Night Live” sketch that had Screech from “Saved by the Bell” appearing on “Inside the Actors’ Studio?”
The big news is that the whole affair will be hosted by Paula Abdul, who announced the gig Monday the same way she announced her departure from “American Idol” … via the micro-blogging service Twitter (I think if Paula got into a car accident, she would tweet before calling 911).
The article states that additional “Divas” performers will be announced soon. Who would you like to see? Sound off, below.
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August 24, 2009
TV Profile: Robert Hadlock
You might know them, but do you know what they watch? This week we hop on the couch with a familiar face from KXAN. Check back each Monday to see who’s next.
Robert Hadlock
Weeknight news co-anchor at KXAN Austin News
Number of years in this position: 19
I love my job because: I work with a great team on the air and behind the scenes. Plus, I’ve had opportunities to do some really neat things.
Here’s what’s on my DVR: 5 episodes of Man vs Food; the final episode of Friday Night Lights from season 3; a news blooper from a competing station; Big Brother (for Mrs. Hadlock); Fr. John Corapi; 3 or 4 movies that we were going to “finish watching later.”
My all-time favorite TV show is: Friday Night Lights
You’ll never catch me watching: The Daily Show
If I have insomnia, the show that lulls me back to sleep is: The Larry King Show
A current show I never miss is: The PGA Tour on NBC/CBS
If my TV is on, it’s probably tuned to this channel: KXAN (except for Kathie Lee and Hoda’s 4th hour of TODAY)
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August 23, 2009
This week's TV picks
Eddie Murphy stars in “Bowfinger.”
Monday
‘The Closer’ 8 p.m., TNT: Kevin Bacon directed this episode, which hinges on a stabbing death perpetrated by a ninja. So it should only take you five steps to get to that episode of ‘Monk’ directed by Martin Scorsese.*
‘Property Virgin’ 7 p.m., HGTV: The search is on for a move-in ready home with a big yard in Austin. Big yard? Guess I’ll add this to the list of shows that didn’t film in my neighborhood.
Tuesday
‘Michael McDonald Q Sessions Live’ 8 p.m., QVC: Grammy-winning McDonald hawks his holiday CD, ‘This Christmas’. Hey, it’s never too early to — no, wait … it’s August, right? Okay, too early.
‘Flipping Out’ 9 p.m., Bravo: Business expansion goals lead a designer-and-remodeler to attend a client’s pajama party. Does that excuse really work?
Wednesday
‘Wipeout’ 7 p.m., ABC: Obstacles in tonight’s episode include Swinging Cereal Killer, Ballsy-Go-Round and Mesh Mosh Run. Incidentally, those are also the names of my three favorite rap artists.
‘Lottery Changed My Life’ 7 p.m., TLC: A Texas lottery winner spends millions on a tepee-themed motel. I’ll best the top floor rooms are really small and coney.
Thursday
‘Futurama’ 8 p.m., Comedy Central: The ha-ha network is airing, back-to-back-to-back-to-back, the four episodes that comprise the direct-to-video movie ‘The Beast with a Billion Backs’. Bonus: David Cross is the beast.
‘Monk’ 10 p.m., USA: In this rerun, guest Daniel Stern is wrapped up with a girl’s disappearance and a UFO sighting. I’m not sure, but I don’t think this is the Scorsese one I was talking about.
Friday
‘Bowfinger’ 7 p.m., ABC: Yet Eddie Murphy didn’t get an Oscar nod ‘til ‘Dreamgirls’.
Saturday
‘Mega Shark Versus Giant Octopus’ 8 p.m., Syfy: Lorenzo Lamas and Deborah Gibson star. They’re probably not, but it would be really cool if they played the titular characters.
‘The Serpent King’ 7 p.m., NGC: Snake freaks track the threatened venomous King Cobra into the jungles of India. It’s a shame they’re in trouble, because the Earth really can’t have too many gigantic, venomous snakes.
Sunday
‘Your Kid Ate What?’ 7 p.m., TLC: I don’t even care what they ate — I’m watching, because this show has the best title of the week.
*This is a joke. To the best of my knowledge, Martin Scorsese never directed an episode of “Monk.”
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August 21, 2009
Of papas and pole dances
I recently took some heat on Twitter for a post I made in advance of MTV’s Teen Choice Awards.
Word leaked that tween idol and Hannah Montana alter-ego Miley Cyrus’ live performance would include a pseudo pole dance on top of an ice cream wagon. This news broke on the same day that the Internet exploded with naked photos of another Teen Choice nominee, “Twilight’s” Ashley Greene (who plays Alice Cullen in the series notably popular with teen girls and their moms).
“Miley pole dancing? That ‘Twilight’ actress whose naked pics just broke on the net? I think my daughter will be skipping Teen Choice Awards,” I wrote.
“Yea! And don’t let her play video games, they cause violent behavior!,” a follower replied. “Keep her locked in a closet between school days to be safe.”
I thought that reply was a little sarcastic and extreme, and not particularly helpful. But maybe I’m wrong. Because now Miley’s own dad, country music personality Billy Ray Cyrus, is defending his daughter’s performance, according to US Magazine.
“You know what? I just think that Miley loves entertaining people,” the mag’s Web site quotes Miley’s dad. “I always tell her to love what you’re doing and stay focused for the love of the art and not worry so much about opinion.”
“I give my kids a lot of freedom to make the art they wanna make, and make it in their own voice. I think it’s important,” he added.
Although the performance turned out to be relatively mild, does anybody really think that pole dancing on an ice cream wagon was Miley’s idea and not strategic packaging by parties interested in publicity and the continued shedding of her Disney-clean image (already tarnished by risque Internet pics and suggestive photos in Vanity Fair)? To me, that exploitation is the most obscene part of this whole mess.
Is this the type of thing you’d want your 11-year-old daughter exposed to? Watch the video, then tell me what you think:
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August 19, 2009
SXSW winner on HBO2 Wednesday night
A son sets out to make a portrait of his eccentric father but instead ends up exposing the secrets of his entire family in “In a Dream.” The documentary, which took home the Emerging Visions Audience Award at this year’s SXSW Film Festival, premieres tonight at 7 p.m. on HBO2.
Cinematical’s Scott Weinberg called it “one of the most unexpectedly touching documentaries I’ve ever seen.”
From the HBO press release:
The film follows artist Isaiah Zagar and his muse and gallerist wife Julia who are fixtures in the South Philadelphia art scene. They have enlivened the city with their stunning work for decades. Their home and other properties around the city are covered in elaborate mosaics of tile and mirror fragments, documenting Isaiah’s love for Julia and for his two sons, Zeke and Jeremiah. But the fantasy world Isaiah constructs through his murals cannot completely hide the darker reality that threatens his relationship, sanity, and family.
The movie’s Web site is here. Check out the trailer:
IN A DREAM: Theatrical Trailer from Herzliya Films on Vimeo.
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August 18, 2009
"Dancing" Tom Delay: "I'm in it to win it."
Former House Republican Whip Tom DeLay, an upcoming contestant on “Dancing with the Stars,” told ABC’s “Good Morning America” today that he’s “in it to win it,” the Associated Press reports.
Th Sugar Land, Texas native, who earned the nickname “Hammer” for his persuasive tactics in keeping party members in line, claims that wearing sequins or sporting an open-shirted look would require some “negotiations.” He did not state whether he would be negotiating for or against those possibilities.
“Dancing with the Stars” is known more for impressive dance moves than political maneuvers, but who knows? Delay’s own brand of fancy footwork could come in handy.
Perhaps he could redistrict the judging panel to get a more favorable voting result, as he did for Republicans with the Texas congressional districts in the early 2000s. (Though he pled not guilty, Delay was forced to resign from his position as Majority Leader following indictment by a Texas grand jury that he had conspired to violate campaign finance laws during that same period.)
It strikes me that “Dancing with the Stars” and other reality shows are a little like ’70s staples “The Love Boat” and “Fantasy Island,” but in reverse: On those cheesy Aaron Spelling classics, actors such as Sonny Bono and Fred “Gopher” Grandy would parlay recurring appearances into political careers. Now, perhaps, reality TV is the place where washed-up politicos go to kick-start entertainment careers (former Chicago Governor Rod Blagojevich was prevented by a judge from joining the cast of “I’m a Celebrity: Get Me Out of Here!” leaving his wife, Patti, to go in his place).
Do you think Delay will be successful on the show? Who would you rather see?
Season 9 of “Dancing with the Stars” premieres Sept. 21.
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August 17, 2009
TV Profile: Dutch Rall
You might know them, but do you know what they watch? This week we hop on the couch with the producer of “In Context” and the new “Stage Left.” Check back each Monday to see who’s next.
Dutch Rall,
Producer/Director, KLRU
Number of years in this position: 4
I love my job because: Being a PBS station, KLRU allows me to create things for the right reasons.
Here’s what’s on my DVR:
I don’t own one.
My all-time favorite TV show is: Watching Ali fights over at my grandfather’s when I was little.
You’ll never catch me watching: Daytime courtroom reality shows. They’re embarrassing for everyone involved, including the viewer.
If I have insomnia, the show that lulls me back to sleep is: Some old classic on AMC.
A current show I never miss is: “Mad Men” … it’s pretty much perfect.
If my TV is on, it’s probably tuned to this channel: Q - KLRU’s 18-3
Dutch Rall photo by Eli Reed
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August 16, 2009
'Mad Men' premiere party tonight!
Brian Solis photo, www.briansolis.com
I’m getting ready for the big “Mad Men” Season 3 premiere party we’re hosting down at the Belmont, 305 W 6th St., tonight. Fortunately, while none of my clothes are particularly stylish, all of them are from the ’60s! Sadly, I was an infant then, so they’re probably not going to fit real well.
We’re going to have trivia contests and prizes; and the Belmont is serving signature cocktails for the event, including a Classic Mad Men Martini, a Mad Men Manhattan and Kir Royale.
The fun starts at 7 p.m. and we’ll be watching the premiere at 9 p.m.
See you there!
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This week's TV picks
Monday:
‘Cake Boss’ 9 p.m., TLC: A fireworks-themed cake is created, which really makes me nervous about the whole ‘blowing out the candles’ part.
‘Hoarders’ 9 p.m., A&E: This series profiles people with obsessive-hoarding disorder, including a woman who hoards food in two freezers and four refrigerators. Should I be worried that I plan to keep every single episode of this show, along with back-up copies, in big piles of VHS tapes?
Tuesday:
‘More to Love’ 9 p.m., Fox: A group date to a spa and one-on-one dates to a castle and a Moroccan restaurant help Luke cull the remaining ladies to six. Is it right for Fox to put this show on right after ‘Hell’s Kitchen’?
‘Nova scienceNow’ 8 p.m., PBS: Tour a Texas algae farm where researchers work to make biofuel from algae. I’ll be taping this show, too, to use in a future argument with my wife about why not cleaning the shower could actually turn out to be a shrewd investment.
Wednesday:
‘Extreme Collections’ 7 p.m., Travel: Tonight’s episode features collectors of shoes, tarantulas, Barbie dolls and body piercings. Watch out, people … it’s a short drive from collector to hoarder.
‘Survive This!’ 8:30 p.m., Cartoon Network: Sometimes the title of a show writes the mini-review all by itself.
‘Black Gold’ 9 p.m., TruTV: Season 2 of this series following Texas oilmen starts tonight.
Thursday:
‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ 9 p.m., Bravo: The ladies unwind at a King Tut cocktail party. Seriously, King Tut. Somebody’s running out of party themes. And unwinding is never a good idea when there might be mummies around.
Friday:
‘Psych’ 9 p.m., USA: James Brolin guest stars when odd occurrences threaten to close an Old West tourist attraction.
‘A Haunting’ 9 p.m., ID: A strange aura and a shadowy figure plague a home in Tucson. Where’s James Brolin when you need him?
Saturday:
‘Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern’ 7 p.m., Travel: Andrew comes to Texas and checks out the NASA kitchens. He’s supposed to sample a nitrogen-frozen dessert, chocolate bacon and fried alligator. I’m thinking he’s spending some time outside of NASA, because only one of those items sounds remotely like space food. Although, really … chocolate bacon has gotta’ be good anywhere.
Sunday:
‘The Simpsons’ 7 p.m., Fox: Back-to-back reruns from 2009’s resurgent season feature Moe dating a woman he met in an online chat room and Lisa’s experience on anti-depressants. Some of her smiley-faced visions rank among the best visual gags this series has ever produced.
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August 14, 2009
'Mad Men' premiere party update
I’ll be hosting a premiere party for “Mad Men’s” new season at 7 p.m. Sunday, August 16. The party will be at the ‘Mad Men’-ish Belmont, 305 W 6th St. We’ll have trivia questions and raffle prizes, and the Belmont is creating a signature drink for the event. They’re also featuring happy hour pricing all night! So dress up in your best ’60s inspired outfits and join us as we kick off season 3.
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August 13, 2009
Jenna Fischer sets new detective show in San Antonio
Are you ready to see bad guys being chased down the Riverwalk?
Jenna Fischer (Pam from NBC’s “The Office”) is developing a show for that network based on the exploits of Charlie Parker, a real-life San Antonio private eye, according to mysanantonio.com.. The site says Fischer, as producer, claims the show will be a Columbo- or Magnum, P.I.-like comedy/drama.
The script is still being written, so it’s a long way from getting on the air. But let’s keep our fingers crossed — maybe Parker can head over to the Alamo and help Pee Wee Herman find his stolen bicycle.
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August 12, 2009
Live in Austin? Ty Pennington wants to fix up your house
ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” is looking for Austin abodes to upgrade.
From the ABC press release:
“We are looking for the deserving people and inspiring families that America can really root for,” says Casting Supervisor Morgan Fahey. “We’re looking for those special people who have amazing strength of character and never give up. Whether it’s keeping their chin up in really tough circumstances or going out of their way to help others. We want to help people whose stories have really affected their community or made a big difference in other people’s lives.
“There are a lot of people who are heroes to those around them because of the way they inspire others and quietly serve their communities on a daily basis,” Fahey added.
The “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” producers are looking for families whose homes desperately need to be rebuilt. “We really want to help families whose homes present major problems for the family, those big issues that affect the family’s quality of life on a daily basis. We want to find deserving people who just don’t have the resources, ability, or time to fix those serious issues without our help.”
To be eligible, a family must own their own single family home and be able to show producers how a makeover will make a huge difference in their lives. Interested families should e-mail a short description of their family story to casttexas@gmail.com
Nominations may be submitted by the family or by a member of their community. Each nomination must include the names and ages of every member of the household along with a description of the major challenges within the home. Anyone submitting a nomination should be sure to explain why the nominated family is deserving, heroic, and/or a great role model for their community. If possible, include a recent photo of the family. All nominations must include a contact phone number.
The deadline for nominations is August 25th, 2009. For more information on how to apply visit ABC’s website.
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August 10, 2009
'King of the Hill' series finale to air after all
TV By the Numbers reports that Fox will air the final two episodes of “King of the Hill” in a special 1-hour series finale beginning at 7 p.m. CT Sunday, September 13. As recently as last week, Fox president Kevin Reilly had called the airing of any remaining episodes “unlikely.”
This isn’t a finale on par with, say, “The Sopranos” … it’s just Fox burning off remaining episodes. Still, it’s nice to see an institution like “KotH” get a decent send-off.
From Fox’s press release:
After 13 seasons of beer, barbecue, bickering and bonding, the Hill family delivers a Southern-style send-off in a one-hour series finale episode of KING OF THE HILL airing Sunday, Sept. 13 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX.
Since its debut in 1997, KING OF THE HILL has followed the life of HANK HILL (Mike Judge), his wife, PEGGY (Kathy Najimy), their 13-year-old son, BOBBY (Pamela Adlon), their 18-year-old niece, LUANNE (Brittany Murphy), her husband LUCKY (Tom Petty), their newborn baby girl GRACIE and his beer guzzling neighborhood buddies, DALE (Johnny Hardwick), BILL (Stephen Root) and BOOMHAUER (Judge).
In the series finale episode, “The Boy Can’t Help It” / ”The Honeymooners,” Bobby becomes quite the ladies’ man when several girls in his class consider him a potential date for the Homecoming dance. When he realizes the girls are just playing with his emotions and are not really that interested, he asks his pal Connie to the dance. Also in the episode, Hank is shocked when his mother announces she is marrying a man she has only known for a few weeks. Soon after, the newlyweds celebrate by purchasing an RV and heading to Hank’s. When Hank’s mom and new stepfather have a heated argument, she takes off with the RV and Hank is left to rescue his mother once again.
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TV Profile: Scott Fisher
You might know them, but do you know what they watch? A prominent meteorologist kicks off our series of local personalities and their viewing habits, but it could be anybody: a television personality; a politician; that oxymoron of a couch potato from your health club. Check back every Monday to see who’s next.
Scott Fisher,
Chief Meteorologist, KTBC FOX 7
Number of years in this position: Nine Years
I love my job because: I love talking to people and telling stories. You name the topic … I love to talk about it! As a FOX 7 meteorologist, I get to tell stories about the weather — it’s my perfect television job in what I think is the perfect city! The fun for me is each and every day finding new and interesting ways to explain what is happening, why it’s happening, what may lead to weather changes and when and how those changes (even subtle ones) may occur.
Here’s what’s on my DVR:
Family Guy
American Dad
Loads of History Channel Stuff (which is interesting, as I dreaded history in high school)
Forensic Files
South Park
Baseball’s Greatest Games and Heroes
Modern Marvels
My all-time favorite TV show is: Seinfeld but Family Guy is my favorite when it comes to what’s still on the air.
You’ll never catch me watching: C-SPAN but C-SPAN2 is AMAZING (just kidding)
If I have insomnia, the show that lulls me back to sleep is: Antiques Roadshow
A current show I never miss is: Family Guy, South Park, 24, The Mentalist, Prison Break (alas, just canceled) and any METS baseball game.
If my TV is on, it’s probably tuned to this channel: Comedy Central or of course, FOX 7
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August 9, 2009
This week's TV picks
Hey, ‘Mad’dicts … you’ve only got a week to go. AMC photo
Monday:
‘Great American Road Trip’ 7 p.m., NBC: The remaining families head for Vegas, where they take in a show by comic magicians Penn and Teller. Personally, I’d rather watch Penn and Teller than watch other people watching Penn and Teller, but you’ve got to take your Penn and Teller where you can get it.
‘Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien’ 10:30 p.m., NBC: Quick — somebody sound the ‘weird hair’ alarm! Conan and Lyle Lovett will be sharing the same stage at the same time!
Tuesday:
‘Playing for Change: Peace Through Music’ 10 p.m., PBS: A Grammy-winning producer creates a cool mash-up by recording local musicians covering the same tunes worldwide, then mixing their individual performances into one song.
Wednesday:
‘MLB Baseball: Phillies at Cubs’ 7 p.m., WGN America: Go, Cubs!
Thursday:
‘NFL Football Exhibition: Cowboys at Raiders’ 9 p.m., CBS: Go, Cowboys!
Friday:
‘Woodstock: Now & Then’ 8 p.m., VH1 Classic: Admit it … aren’t you really just interested in the ‘then’ part?
‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ 7 p.m., Disney: Justin asks a vampire girl to the prom and Alex is surprised when real zombies turn up at a zombie-themed dance. Meanwhile, my 11-year-old daughter memorizes every line spoken.
Saturday:
‘NFL Football Exhibition: Texans at Chiefs’ 7 p.m., CW: Go, Cubs!
‘It’s Me or the Dog’ 8 p.m., Animal Planet: Okay, I’ve never actually seen this show, in which an expert helps families with their unruly canine pets, but I’ll bet I bellow its title at my house about 50 times a day.
‘The Terminators’ 8 p.m., Syfy: What? You think this direct-to-video release in which humans battle earth-conquering cyborgs is a rip-off of James Cameron’s “Terminator” franchise? Really? Did you miss that “s” at the end of the title? Shame on you.
Sunday:
‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire’ 7 p.m., ABC: Connie Chung is tonight’s expert lifeline. Maybe the contestants should go with phone-a-friend.
‘Mad Men’ 9 p.m., AMC: Pete and Ken find themselves in an unexpected situation at Sterling-Cooper; Sal and Don head out on a business trip and blah, blah, blah who cares what happens? I’d spend the hour watching Betty wash the dishes! ‘Mad Men’ is back everybody! It’s finally back!*
*That reminds me: I’ll be hosting a premiere party for “Mad Men’s” new season at 7 p.m. Sunday, August 16. The party will be at the “Mad Men”-ish Belmont, 305 W 6th St. downtown. We’ll have trivia questions and raffle prizes, and the Belmont is creating a signature drink for the event! Dress up in your best ’60s inspired outfits and join us as we watch the great first episode of season 3.
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August 7, 2009
More Tyra on 'Friday Night Lights,' but not until season 5
Adrianne Palicki is taking a break from “Friday Night Lights.” Dean Hendler photo/NBC
Adrianne Palicki won’t be back on “Friday Night Lights” until season 5, the Chicago Tribune reports.
We’ll see the “goodbye arcs” for Minka Kelly’s and Zach Gilford’s characters Lyla and Matt when NBC airs season 4 in summer of 2010 (DirecTV subscribers will get to watch this October) but “Palicki has some work lined up for the next few months,” Maureen Ryan reports on the Tribune blog, The Watcher. “She’ll be in the remake of ‘Red Dawn’ and she’s also in the third episode of ‘Supernatural’s’ fourth season. As a result, we won’t get Tyra’s farewell arc until Season 5.”
Read the entire story here.
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August 6, 2009
Sample Julia Child nostalgia online
Nora Ephron’s cinematic Meryl Streep/Amy Adams dish, “Julie & Julia,” doesn’t open until Friday. In the meantime, you can satisfy your hunger for Julia Child nostalgia at PBS.org. The Web site has posted classic cooking shows from the late culinary icon for online viewing on their video portal.
Web surfers can learn Julia Child’s tricks of the trade and find tips and recipes. In addition, PBS welcomes viewers to share their own “Julia” stories.
Cooking shows were the original reality television. I remember hearing Julia’s distinctive voice on the television in my childhood home (as if I needed any prodding to cultivate an obsession with food).
Do you have a favorite Julia Child memory? Post it below.
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August 5, 2009
NBC talks 'Friday Night Lights' and 'Chuck'
Gail Pennington reports on the St. Louis Dispatch’s Tube Talk blog that “Friday Night lights” just isn’t that important to NBC.
“It just doesn’t have the ratings that we need it to have to justify it being on our fall schedule,” Pennington quotes NBC Entertainment president Angela Bromstad saying. “Our plan is to use it as a premier summer program.”
We didn’t expect the Austin area-filmed “FNL” would be back ‘til next summer; now we know why.
There was some hope among the creators of the network’s “Chuck,” the blog post reads, that it would be moved up to a fall slot in the wake of new property “Parenthood’s” postponement. Bromstad says no.
Read the whole story — including Bromstad’s take on Austinite Ben Mackenzie’s “Southland,” here.
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Who should replace Paula on 'American Idol'?
This photo illustration shows what the ‘American Idol’ panel could look like next season, if they move judge Kara DioGuardi over to the right of Randy Jackson (and crop her out of this picture) and if Cyndi Lauper were made a new judge and her head became abnormally large. Photo illustration by Dale Roe from Associated Press photos.
So … Paula Abdul, FOX and The Associated Press all say contract negotiations were unsuccessful and that “American Idol’s” original loopy, female judge will not be back.
“With sadness in my heart,” Abdul notified her Twitter fans in a surprisingly lucid tweet, “I’ve decided not to return. I’ll miss nurturing all the new talent, but most of all being a part of a show that I helped from day 1 become an international phenomenon” (actually, that must have been a couple of tweets).
FOX and the show’s producers noted that the “tremendous talent” that is Paula has been “an important part of the ‘American Idol’ family over the last eight seasons and we are saddened that she has decided not to return to the show.”
Wow.
Can you imagine an Abdul-less “Idol?” Was evil Kara DioGuardi brought on to force Paula’s hand and get her to leave? Could you honestly sit and watch Simon and Kara square off every week? I’m not sure it works for me — isn’t “Idol” pretty much the “Simon and Paula Show?”
I’m hoping that this is all just posturing or a stupid, awful sideshow befitting the “Idol” circus. After all, we heard the same thing about the voice cast of “Futurama” weeks ago and that drama ended happily ever after.
But, just in case nobody steps in and fixes this mess (Bill Clinton, are you reading this?), we need an additional female judge on the panel. I’ve seen the name “Cyndi Lauper” bandied about on Twitter and Facebook (okay, I’ve actually joined in on the bandying; I have bandied). I think she’d be okay, but she’s probably too rational and savvy (and, anyway, she’s not “so unusual” any more).
Who would be your pick to replace Abdul? Let me know, below.
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August 4, 2009
Is 'As the World Turns' the next soap to go?
Hot on the heels of the announcement that “Let’s Make A Deal” is replacing “Guiding Light” comes speculation from CBS president Nina Tassler that “As the World Turns” could be next, according to the New York Post.
“It is also having ratings challenges. It is hard to say (if it is safe),” the paper quotes Tassler as saying. “It is one of those things where you watch and you talk. All of daytime is a challenged daypart.”
“The Guiding Light” debuted in 1952 with “As the World Turns” following four years later. The final episode of “GL” will air on September 18. “Let’s Make a Deal’s” new incarnation will find genial celebrity Wayne Brady taking the host mantle famously created by Monty Hall, who is consulting on the show.
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August 3, 2009
TV critics honor 'Battlestar,' 'Big Bang Theory,' 'Mad Men'
“Battlestar Galactica” wowed the Television Critics Association this year.
SyFy’s “Battlestar Galactica” was named Program of the Year at the annual Television Critics Awards ceremony Saturday in Pasadena. The award is notable because the popular series concluded its run this year and was completely snubbed by the Emmy folks. It’s also an odd category, neither best drama nor best comedy.
Those honors went to “The Big Bang Theory” (CBS) and “Mad Men*” (AMC). “Bang,” as a whole, was not nominated by the Emmy voters (although cast member Jim Parsons, who won the best actor in comedy trophy from the TCA, also nabbed a nomination in that Emmy category) while “Mad Men” took home an armload of Emmy trophies last year.
HBO took home the most TCA awards, with three. That doesn’t sound like many, but the critics, being stingy with praise, only dole out ten awards. The pay cable network’s “True Blood” took home best new program, “Grey Gardens” won for best miniseries, and “The Alzheimer’s Project” took top honors in the documentary category.
Bryan Cranston of “Breaking Bad” (AMC) was recognized as best performer (the TCA gives out only one award, as opposed to separate honors for men and women); Nickelodeon’s “Yo Gabba Gabba” was named best children’s program and, finally, NBC’s “ER” won the critics’ Heritage Award.
More than 200 television writers from the United States and Canada vote on the awards.
*Reminder: I’ll be hosting a premiere party for “Mad Men’s” new season at 7 p.m. Sunday, August 16. The party will be at the “Mad Men”-ish Belmont, 305 W 6th St. downtown. We’ll have trivia questions and raffle prizes, and the Belmont is creating a signature drink for the event! Dress up in your best ’60s inspired outfits and join us as we watch the first episode of season 3.
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August 2, 2009
This week's TV picks
Discovery’s “Air Jaws” is a lot less cuddly than Disney’s hoops-shooting “Air Bud,” and he’d probably pop the basketball anyway.
Monday
‘Air Jaws: Sharks of South Africa’ 7 p.m., Discovery: Shark week started last night, so if you turn on Discovery any night this week you’re probably going to see sharks. The creatures profiled in this particular show leap out of the water, hunting seals. Also, 27 of them devour a whale carcass. Sharks are awesome.
‘Obsessed’ 9 p.m., A&E: An OCD-afflicted woman plucks out her eyebrows; another woman can’t stop picking at her skin; a TV critic compulsively checks what’s on other channels right now.
Tuesday
‘Paris Hilton’s My New BFF’ 9 p.m., MTV: Paris chooses one of two remaining hopefuls as her new BFF, which begs the question — what’s that final “F” for if she’s choosing a new one every year?
Wednesday
‘True Hollywood Story’ 9 p.m., E!: Farrah Fawcett gets the bio treatment and I reminisce about that poster I won at the school fair in middle school.
‘Make My Day’ 9:30 p.m., TV Land: This new hidden-camera series follows unsuspecting participants who are set up with the best day of their lives. I thought this show was following me last week when I went to get a Snickers bar from the vending machine and two fell out instead of one.
Thursday
‘So You Think You Can Dance’ 7 p.m., FOX: Season 5’s winner is announced.
‘World’s Wildest Vacation Videos’ 7:30 p.m., truTV: No program description was available but, just to be safe — I can totally explain that weekend in Myrtle Beach.
Friday
‘Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader’ 7 p.m., FOX: Tonight, general-knowledge grade-school questions are posed to a surfer who lost an arm to a shark. Okay, I know it’s Shark Week, but c’mon.
Saturday
‘George Lopez: Tall, Dark and Chicano’ 9 p.m., HBOe: Popular comic Lopez filmed this stand-up special in San Antonio.
‘Dirty Sexy Money’ 9 p.m., ABC: This is the series finale, so that means it’s your last chance to catch the Darlings (as in ‘not viewer darlings’).
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July 30, 2009
Mike Judge talks 'Beavis,' 'Hill" and Texas
John Scott Lewinski over at TV Squad has posted an interview with Mike Judge, the Austin resident who created “Beavis & Butthead,” “Office Space,” “King of the Hill” and the floundering “The Goode Family.”
Lewinski snagged Judge at the annual Comic-Con convention and asked him about “Goode” as well as rumors of a new “Beavis” movie. No surprise, Judge explains that both “King” and “Beavis” grew out of his experiences growing up here in Texas.
Judge also says “never say never” to an “Office Space” sequel. What do you think, TV blog readers? Is it a good idea for Judge to revisit his past?
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July 29, 2009
Look -- I'm a Mad Man! You can be too
AMC has posted a fun online tool that lets you turn yourself into a cartoon version of a Sterling-Cooper denizen. Starting with a basic body shape, you can alter your character’s facial features, clothing and accessories, then plop him or her into a number of scenes familiar to “Mad Men” fans.
Once you’ve styled yourself, you can download desktop-sized scenes; smaller, full-body shots; or avatar-sized head shots (which explains the typhoon of new, cartoonish faces we’ve seen all over Facebook and Twitter).
The drawings were all done by “Mad Men” fan and amazing artist Dyna Moe, who also drew my editor Sarah’s gorgeous wedding invites.
Check out Mad Men Me above (I’m in the middle there — sadly I look more like Bert Cooper than I do Don Draper), make your own, then come back and add it to our gallery here:
Please login before you upload media.
Finally, I’ll be hosting a premiere party for “Mad Men’s” new season at 7 p.m. Sunday, August 16. The party will be at the “Mad Men”-ish Belmont, 305 W 6th St. downtown. We’ll have trivia questions and raffle prizes, and the Belmont is creating a signature drink for the event! Dress up in your best ’60s inspired outfits and join us as we watch the great first episode of season 3.
See you in the funny papers!
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July 27, 2009
More octuplets headed to television
Nadya Suleman has signed a deal to star in a reality television series to be filmed by a British production company. Suleman gave birth to the six boys and two girls in January and also has six other children. Nick Ut/Associated Press
“Octomom” Nadya Suleman has inked a deal for each of her 14 children to earn $250 a day to star in a reality television show to begin filming September 1, according to court documents obtained by the Associated Press. The contract guarantees that the children will earn a total of nearly $250,000 over three years.
15 percent of the pay will be deposited by production company Eyeworks (“Breaking Bonaduce”) into a trust account which can’t be touched until the children turn 18 or become legally emancipated, the story says. That leaves Suleman with only $213,000 of “mad money,” by my count.
What do you think? Will you watch “Nadya Plus Eight Plus Six?” I think I’ll pass.
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July 26, 2009
This week's TV picks
Members of Wilco are, from left, Pat Sansone, Mikael Jorgensen, Jeff Tweedy, Glenn Kotche, Nels Cline and John Stirratt. Autumn De Wilde photo/Nonesuch Records
Monday
‘The Bachelorette’ 7 p.m., ABC: In the season finale, Jillian’s family grills her final two suitors in Hawaii, which seems kind of extreme. Then she reveals her choice (hint: it’s not Wes).
Tuesday
‘You Are What You Eat’ 7 p.m., BBC America: I’m a hunk of potato salad, several slices of brisket slathered in BBQ sauce, banana pudding and a large, unsweet iced tea, none of which are discussed in this episode on healthy food choices.
Wednesday
‘Throwdown with Bobby Flay’ 8 p.m., Food Network: The founders of a Manhattan restaurant chain engage in a sloppy joe cook-off. That reminds me — I’m also a sloppy joe.
Thursday
‘World’s Toughest Fixes’ 8 p.m., National Geographic Channel: The program covers a mission to Switzerland to repair the Large Hadron Collider. Isn’t that the thing that has the potential to send us all back to the Stone Age or into an alternate universe if it malfunctions? Yeah, let’s get that fixed.
Friday
‘Surviving Suburbia’ 7 p.m., ABC: Courtney and Henry fight for control of the downstairs TV. I firmly believe that if any member of my household tries to turn on this program, we’ll be having the same problem.
‘Catch It Keep It’ 9pm, Science Channel: A race to save a pyramid made out of 672 beer bottles before an explosives charge goes off resulting in, quite literally, 672 bottles of beer on the wall.
Saturday
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., KLRU: Okay, so this performance by Wilco is a repeat from 2007; there’s no first-run stuff on tonight that’s any better. Trust me.
Sunday
‘The Storm’ 8 p.m., NBC: In the conclusion, a scientist tries to put a stop to horrific weather conditions — which could lead to world annihilation — brought on by a tycoon’s out-of-control manipulations. Tell you what … if those horrific weather conditions aren’t day after day of sunshine and 100-degree-plus temperatures, that tycoon could probably get asylum here in Austin.
‘Pawn Stars’ 9:02 p.m., History Channel: Among the items featured this week is a 1942 Gibson L-7 guitar supposedly played for Al Capone. Turns out he only wanted to keep the case.
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Austin's Katie Holland on 'Army Wives' tonight
She’s finally maid it! Former Austinite Katie Holland (in the maid costume) on Lifetime’s ‘Army Wives’.
Class of 2003 Austin High Red Dragon Players staple Katie Holland, 24, makes her television debut tonight on Lifetime’s popular ‘Army Wives’. The actress appears in a couple of sexy outfits when the main wives — who think they are attending an at-home housewares party — find themselves at a “spice up your marriage” affair.
Holland, who used to gather up the neighborhood kids to put on plays, now lives outside of Charleston, South Carolina where the series is filmed. “I have always loved theater, have loved acting, ever since I can remember,” she says.
Holland’s mother, who you can bet will be glued to the television Sunday night (“this is a big deal,” she says, “I’ve already bought the champagne”) verifies her daughter’s ambitions. “Katie’s wanted to be an actress since she was about 3,” she says. “It was evident early on.”
Hollands’ theatrical ambitions have been supported throughout her education at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York, her appearances off-Broadway and independent films, and her move to South Carolina, where she performs with a theater group called Reverve. There, Holland was awarded Best of Charleston 2009; New Talent, for a show called ‘Dog Sees God; Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead’.
“We are thrilled and so proud that she had the gumption to go against the grain and follow her dream,” her mom says.
Catch Holland on “Army Wives” at 9 p.m. tonight on Lifetime and in repeats throughout the week. You can watch a trailer for tonight’s episode by clicking here.
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July 24, 2009
Harvey Birdman? The American Bar Association picks 25 best law shows
Harvey Birdman cross-examines.
The American Bar Association Journal has published its list of the 25 greatest legal TV shows. The winners were chosen by a panel consisting of 12 experts (like a jury, get it?) composed of lawyers, scholars and, umm, a TV critic (some of us have had close brushes with the law, and that’s all I’ll say about that).
The list is interesting. “Ally McBeal” beats “Damages,” but that’s balanced out by “Harvey Birdman” besting “Matlock.” “L.A. Law” came in first, just edging out “Perry Mason.”
Do you think the lawyers got it right, or did they set the bar too high? (Har, har.)
Let justice be served! Tell us which of your favorites got left out, below.
If the response is good, maybe next week we’ll be back with a list from the American Dental Association of its favorite “Dick van Dyke Show” episodes featuring dentist neighbor Jerry Helper.
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July 21, 2009
Cronkite biography tonight on BIO
BIO Channel celebrates the life of legendary television news journalist Walter Cronkite, who died July 17 at the age of 92, in a two-hour special tonight at 7 p.m.
From BIO’s press release:
“Through archival footage and interviews with family members, friends and colleagues, BIO Remembers the man who turned a less-than-pretty face, a unique style of delivery, and a simple catchphrase into one of the most storied careers in television, and he set the standard by which all television news people will be forever judged.”
More information is available on the network’s Web site.
In other news, the Associated Press reports that Cronkite’s voice will continue to introduce the “CBS Evening News with Katie Couric.” The network had planned to pull the recording, which Cronkite made in 2006, but members of his family gave the okay for use of the recording to continue, according to CBS News spokesman Jeff Ballabon.
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July 20, 2009
Kate Gosselin coming to Austin
Reality television star Kate Gosselin of TLC’s beleagured “Jon & Kate Plus 8” is slated to appear in Austin at Balance Expo for Women 2009, Saturday August 8 at the Palmer Events Center. The event, sponsored by Mix 94.7, Majic 95.5 and Talk 1370, “explores the variety of resources available addressing family, work, fitness and more,” according to the Expo Web site..
Gosselin, whose strained relationship with husband Jon has been the subject of both the suspended season of her show and tabloid headlines, is slated to discuss “how she balances her career, her life as a TV reality show star, her children, and how she’s handling her much-publicized divorce,” the site says. Family problems don’t seem to be affecting speaking engagements for Gosselin, who is making a similar appearance at a California event.
Other speakers are slated to appear, including: radio talk show host, Dr. Laura Schlessinger; life coach Ann Daly; and “American Idol” Season 7 finalist Michael Johns. The event will be preceded by the Balance 5K - a women’s only 5k benefiting the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition. Register for the run here.
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Would you watch an Abdul-less Idol?
“American Idol” judges, from left, Simon Cowell, Kara DioGuardi, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson. Jason DeCrow, Associated Press photo
The Associated Press and other sources are reporting that Paula Abdul might not be back as a judge next season on “American Idol.”
What do you think? Would you boycott an “Idol” devoid of Paula’s goofy antics or is it time for her to go?
Sound off!
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'Torchwood' tonight on BBC America
On tonight’s “Torchwood” miniseries debut, every single child on Earth stops and becomes an unwitting messenger for an alien race. Adrian Rogers Photography/BBC
“Torchwood: Children of Earth” premieres at 8 p.m. tonight on BBC America.
The miniseries is basically season three of the stylish “Doctor Who” spin-off (the name “Torchwood” is an anagram of “Doctor Who”) which was conceived prior to that show’s revival. Its initial season garnered an iffy reception, but season two garnered much more positive acclaim, and “Children of the Earth” has generated a lot of buzz (its ratings in Britain were nearly five times as high as the lowest ratings from the show’s first season).
“Children of the Earth” once again focuses on Captain Jack Harkness (John Barrowman), the leader of Torchwood Three, an outpost built upon a space/time rift. Harkness, along with Gwen Cooper (Eve Myles) and Ianto Jones (Gareth David-Lloyd) are charged with monitoring the rift and dealing with whatever entities it produces.
Tonight’s episode finds every child on Earth stopping and delivering a message to all the planet’s governments: “We are coming.” A quick escalation of events leads to the potential destruction of civilization.
The remaining four episodes will air nightly this week at 8 p.m.
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July 19, 2009
This week's TV picks
A screen shot from ABC’s ‘Dating in the Dark.’ Okay, not really.
I’m starting to realize that these are coming across more as ‘warnings’ than ‘picks.’ However you take them, here’s hoping they help:
Monday
‘The Bachelorette’ 7 p.m. ABC. The men tell all. Really? Have you seen this show? I think maybe they might want to hold some of it back. Just sayin’.
‘Dating in the Dark’ 9 p.m. ABC. I hate to keep picking on ABC, but this is a show — a television show, on television, a visual medium — in which contestants get acquainted in a completely dark room. Those are going to be some gripping visuals. Incidentally, if the room in question is 3 feet by 4 feet and is filled with hanging clothes and dusty boxes, I think I was on this show in high school.
Tuesday
‘Hell’s Kitchen’ 7 p.m. Fox. In the two-hour season opener, Satan (the lord of darkness) prepares a delightful crème brûlée. Just kidding. Sixteen new contestants form two teams and whip up signature dishes in an effort to win a head chef’s job at a future Olympics event site. I’ll bet the athletes don’t have to humiliate themselves like this.
Wednesday
‘Magic’s Biggest Secrets Finally Revealed’ (rerun) 10 p.m. CW. The CW is repeating this program because, you know — it’s always more fun to learn how a magic trick is done the second time around.
Thursday
‘How Do I Look?’ 8 p.m. Style. Not bad, really. Although, if I’m being honest, you could probably stand to lose a few, especially around the hips.
‘Crime 360’ 9 p.m. A&E. The description reads only, ‘Indianapolis.’ Hmm. ’Nuff said.
Friday
‘Ghost Adventures’ 8 p.m. Travel. Spooky stuff is going on at an English inn that was built over a pagan burial ground. Shocker. Look, I know the real estate is cheap, but c’mon … I wouldn’t even build a Halloween attraction over a burial ground.
Saturday
‘Animal Planet Dog Championships 2009’ 7 p.m. Animal Planet. Behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with owners and trainers at a competition featuring canines from all over the country. It’s like that ‘Best in Show’ movie without the snarky humor, which is why I will be watching ‘Best in Show.’
Sunday
‘Merlin’ 7 p.m. NBC. Morgana helps Merlin when he has to secretly return a druid boy to his people. I hope that’s not Morgana, that busty woman who used to interrupt baseball games by running out onto the fields and kissing the players. Remember her? On second thought, that might make all this medieval mumbo-jumbo more interesting.
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July 17, 2009
Bad news, everybody: Futurama's characters might get new voices
As Bender might say, 20th Century Fox can “bite my shiny, metal (expletive deleted).”
Actually, Bender wouldn’t say “expletive deleted.” And, if the production company gets its way, “Futurama’s” hard-drinking, wise-cracking, troublemaking robot with a heart of gold won’t be saying anything in voice actor John DiMaggio’s gravelly growl anyway.
Variety and a number of other sources are reporting that talks have broken down between the cast (Billy West, Katey Sagal, DiMaggio, Maurice LaMarche and Tress MacNeille) and the production company over compensation for the 26 new episodes slated to begin running next year.
“We love the ‘Futurama’ voice performers and absolutely wanted to use them, but unfortunately, we could not meet their salary demands,” Variety quotes from a 20th Century Fox TV statement. “While replacing these talented actors will be difficult, the show must go on. We are confident that we will find terrific new performers to give voice to Matt and David’s brilliantly subversive characters.”
Let’s hope this is a strong-arm negotiating tactic similar to the one vocal talent for “The Simpsons” encountered when terms could not be met and that DiMaggio and company will be back.
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Catch "Catch it Keep it" tonight on Science Channel
Zach Selwyn and Mike Senese hope their show catches on. Science.Discovery.com photo.
I like Discovery Channel’s “Mythbusters,” but there’s never really anything at stake, is there?
The Science Channel may have solved this problem with “Catch It Keep It,” premiering tonight at 9pm Central.
Part “Mythbusters,” part “Trading Spaces” and part reality show, “Catch It Keep It” follows a trio of competitors guided by host Zach Selwyn as they attempt to win a prize by rescuing it from certain destruction in a span of 48 hours.
In tonight’s episode, for example, the contestants must design and construct a counter weight net system to catch a $2500 Il Bello Fly Scooter when it’s launched off a 15 degree, 80 foot ramp, 26 feet off the ground at 40 MPH. The perilous situation meant to result in decimation for each week’s prize is designed by Science Channel’s “engineer of destruction,” Mike Senese.
At the end of each show, the contestants’ rescue schemes are put to the test. Then Senese tells how he would have solved the puzzle with his own design and build.
Future episodes include rescuing an 100-gallon aquarium from the forces of a level 5 hurricane; protecting a year’s supply of beer from a powerful explosive charge; and saving a Gibson Les Paul guitar from a firestorm of thermite.
In other words, it’s still smashing, burning and blowing stuff up, but there’s a catch.
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July 15, 2009
My Emmy Dream Ballot
The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences is set to announce nominations for the Emmy awards Thursday at 7:30 a.m. We’ll be here covering it live right here but, in the meantime, here’s what I’d like to see. I understand some of these are longshots (I’m looking at you, “BSG,” “FNL” and “FotC”) but, hey — that’s why it’s called a dream ballot (and also, I guess, why I don’t get a real vote):
Best Drama
“Battlestar Galactica” (SYFY)
“Breaking Bad” (AMC)
“Friday Night Lights” (NBC)
“Lost” (ABC)
“Mad Men” (AMC)
“The Shield” (FX)
Lead Actress in a Drama Series
Connie Britton, “Friday Night Lights” (NBC)
Glenn Close, “Damages” (FX)
January Jones, “Mad Men” (AMC)
Mary McDonnell, “Battlestar Galactica” (SYFY)
Elisabeth Moss, “Mad Men” (AMC)
Anna Paquin, “True Blood” (HBO)
Lead Actor in a Drama Series
Kyle Chandler, “Friday Night Lights” (NBC)
Bryan Cranston, “Breaking Bad” (AMC)
Michael C. Hall, “Dexter” (Showtime)
Jon Hamm, “Mad Men” (AMC)
Hugh Laurie, “House” (FOX)
Denis Leary, “Rescue Me” (FX)
Best Comedy
“Big Bang Theory” (CBS)
“Chuck” (NBC)
“The New Adventures of Old Christine” (CBS)
“The Office” (NBC)
“30 Rock” (NBC)
“United States of Tara” (Showtime)
Lead Actress in a Comedy Series
Christina Applegate, “Samantha Who” (ABC)
Toni Collette, “United States of Tara” (Showtime)
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, “The New Adventures of Old Christine” (CBS)
America Ferrera, “Ugly Betty” (ABC)
Tina Fey, “30 Rock” (NBC)
Mary Louise Parker, “Weeds” (Showtime)
Lead Actor in a Comedy Series
Alec Baldwin, “30 Rock” (NBC)
Steve Carell, “The Office” (NBC)
Neil Patrick Harris, “How I Met Your Mother” (CBS)
Zachary Levi, “Chuck” (NBC)
Jim Parsons, “The Big Bang Theory” (CBS)
Either Bret McKenzie or Jemaine Clement, “Flight of the Conchords” (HBO)
Okay, let me have it. Who’s on your dream ballot? Which actors, actresses and shows did I miss? Post your picks below.
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July 14, 2009
A Conchord flies to Fantastic Fest
Jemaine Clement, half of New Zealand’s music/comedy duo “Flight of the Conchords,” is slated to kick off Fantastic Fest 2009 (September 24-October 1) with a live appearance in conjunction with “Gentleman Broncos,” director Jared Hess’ third film. Clement stars as Ronald Chevalier, a legendary fantasy novelist (and apparent script thief).
Clement and bandmate Bret McKenzie were introduced to America on their self-titled HBO show, which recently wrapped up its second season. The duo has also appeared at South by Southwest.
You can find more information about the “Gentlemen Broncos” — and Clement’s pompous character — at this hilarious Web site.
And here’s an inspirational video from Chevalier himself:
Dr. Ronald Chevalier - Inspiring Oneself
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July 13, 2009
Casting begins for new 'Friday night Lights' regulars
Michael Ausiello over at EW.com has posted some casting tidbits for season 4 of “Friday Night Lights.” Producers are looking for four new series regulars.
They are: Vince, an African-American East Dillon junior; Luke, Vince’s rival and a reluctant Lion; Jess, a sophomore/junior who knows football like the back of her hand; and Becky, a beauty queen who competes with her own mother for Riggins’ affection. Sounds soapy!
Check out the whole article here.
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July 7, 2009
Connie Britton hopes Ron Perlman visits 'Friday Night Lights'
If you ever see Hellboy around Austin, you’ll know that Connie Britton has gotten her wish.
Britton, who plays Principal Tami Taylor in the locally filmed “Friday Night Lights,” told E!Online’s Spoiler Chat column that she’s lobbying for her friend Ron Perlman to do a guest appearance on the show. She’d like to see Perlman, known for the “Hellboy” movies and the FX series “Sons of Anarchy,” playing a tough coach.
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July 6, 2009
'Arrested Development' creator to receive Austin Film Festival Award
Mitchell Hurwitz can add an honor from the Austin Film Festival and Conference to his long list of accolades.
The creator of the Emmy-winning comedy “Arrested Development” will receive the 2009 Outstanding Television Writer Award during the festival.
Hurwitz joins an already strong TV lineup at the October event. Other big-name speakers include Matthew Weiner (“Mad Men”) and Paul Feig (“Freaks and Geeks”).
The festival runs Oct. 22-29; the screenwriting conference Oct. 22-25.
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July 5, 2009
Compounds, cooks and cable guys: This week's TV picks
Smarter than a 5th grader? If he was, he probably wouldn’t be a Cubs fan. M. Spencer Green photo/Associated Press
Here are my TV picks for the upcoming week. I’ve done all the work, so program your DVR, sit back and relax:
Monday
‘The Bachelorette’ 7 p.m., KVUE: Jillian heads to Madrid with her final four suitors, including Austin musician Wes Hayden. Will booted Jake Pavelka from Dallas follow them across the ocean to try and mess things up for Wes again? Hey, he’s a commercial pilot … it could happen.
Tuesday
‘Warehouse 13’ 8 p.m., SciFi: Eddie McClintock and Joanne Kelly star as mismatched Secret Service agents in the debut of this X-Files-inspired dramedy with the world’s most annoying press kit. Seriously — it’s like one of those talking greeting cards and I can’t figure out how to make it stop.
Wednesday
‘Top Chef Masters’ 9 p.m., Bravo: Remember that time you told your buddy you could cook a better meal than he could with one hand tied behind your back? You could have been a television writer, because that’s what’s happening tonight. Also, they feed that guy from ‘Doogie Howser’ and ‘How I Met Your Mother.’
Thursday
‘Big Brother’ 7 p.m., KEYE: We meet the Season 11 houseguests, who are locked in the compound and face their first challenge: keeping Janet Reno out. That’s what happens when you lock yourself in a compound.
Friday
‘Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader’ 7 p.m., KTBC: Since the competitors include Larry the Cable Guy, I’m gonna go out on a limb and say ‘no.’
‘The Goode Family’ 7:30 p.m., KVUE: Gerald confronts a celebrity chef after eating supposedly meatless chili laced with chicken. I wonder if he offers to fight him with one hand tied behind his back?
Saturday
‘48 Hours Mystery’ 7 p.m., KEYE: No program description was available for this episode, but if I know network television they’ll figure out a way to work Michael Jackson into it.
Sunday
‘Dear Genevieve’ 7:30 p.m., HGTV: Dear Genevieve, we love you even though (or maybe because) you sound all stuffed up, like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
‘Meteor’ 8 p.m., KXAN: Reverend Jim from ‘Taxi’ discovers that a giant meteor named Kassandra is on a collision course with Earth. Jake from ‘The Bachelorette’ interferes with their rendezvous, trying to convince Kassandra that Earth is already seeing a meteor.
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July 2, 2009
Doogie Howser, Emmy
Michael Ausiello at ew.com is reporting that Neil Patrick Harris has been tapped to host this year’s Emmy awards Sept. 20 on CBS. In his childhood, Harris starred as “Doogie Howser, MD” and he currently plays Barney on “How I Met Your Mother.” He recently garnered rave reviews for his hosting turn at the Tony Awards. Check out his closing number from that broadcast:
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TV fireworks: channels schedule 4th weekend marathons
Our friend Charlie over at Interesting Pile has posted a list of TV show marathons airing over the July 4th weekend. It’s missing some pay cable offerings such as the “Nurse Jackie” marathon on Showtime on Saturday from 7-9pm CT but, for basic cable listings, it’s mighty comprehensive.
There’s something on this list — covering Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5 — for just about everybody, from “Twilight Zone” and “Hannah Montana” to “Ice Road Truckers.”
Thanks Charlie!
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July 1, 2009
FX sets Fall schedule; 'nip/tuck' back in October
FX, has announced its fall season schedule. Returning in September are “Sons of Anarchy” and “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.” The drama “nip/tuck” won’t be back until October.
The most interesting news to me is the announcement that Austin film maker Robert Rodriguez’ one-time squeeze, Rose McGowan, will be guesting on “nip/tuck.” I wonder if the actress will be portraying a client? She has admitted to having plastic surgery following an auto accident, but it sure looks like she’s had a lot more work done since then.
Check out FX’s press release after the jump.
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June 30, 2009
TV Guide Network cobbles together two more Michael Jackson tributes
Is this much MJ coverage “Bad?” Chris Pizzello photo/Associated Press
Haven’t had enough Michael Jackson coverage? I’ve had enough to last a lifetime (maybe the only network that hasn’t aired one!) but as long as y’all keep watching, it’s never going to stop.
TV Guide Network will shamelessly grab for ratings — er, pay homage to Jackson — in two more television specials airing this week: “Stars Reflect on the Man in the Mirror,” premiering tonight at 7:00 p.m. CT includes performance highlights and celebrity interviews from Sunday night’s “BET Awards,” which became a hastily-planned tribute to Jackson; “Michael Jackson: His Music Legacy,” premiering Wednesday, July 1 at 7:00 p.m. CT, features Jackson’s music videos.
“Stars Reflect on the Man in the Mirror” features interviews with Joe Jackson, Smokey Robinson, Ne-Yo, Alicia Keys, New Edition, Ciara, Sherri Shepherd, Arsenio Hall and Wyclef Jean, as they discuss Michael Jackson’s legendary career, his pop culture influence and how he paved the way for so many artists today. (Arsenio Hall? There’s a blast from the past. I wonder how many weeks of coverage we’ll have when he passes away?) The special will also include some of the most memorable tribute highlights from the “BET Awards,” including Janet Jackson’s remarks, Jamie Foxx’s Moonwalk and New Edition’s medley rendition of Jackson 5 hits.
“Michael Jackson: His Music Legacy” will feature music videos from the artist’s solo career, including “Human Nature,” “Bad,” “The Way You Make Me Feel” and “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” among others.
In other words, there’s little here we haven’t seen a thousand times on dozens of channels in the 5 days since Jackson died.
I don’t mean to sound callous; Jackson was a phenomenal entertainer — 25 years ago. He did influence a lot of artists and he left a brilliant musical legacy; a few days of coverage was well-deserved. But I feel there’s some revisionist — or at least, selective — history taking place here: MJ did not create MTV and, although he certainly had a gloved hand in shaping and changing the music video art form, the last time I checked nobody really shows those anymore.
I guess I’m just Thriller’d out. Do you agree? Is the continuing MJ coverage overblown or am I out of line? Post your thoughts below.
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Univision beats ESPN in soccer ratings
KAKW graphic
KAKW Univision 62, a Spanish-language TV station serving the Austin market, delivered the highest local ratings during Sunday’s USA vs. Brazil soccer match, regardless of language, based on average household ratings. Univision beat ESPN, which also aired the live match.
KAKW’s coverage reached approximately 18,000 Austin market households, while ESPN reached 12,000.
In addition, KAKW reached more viewers during the USA/Brazil time period (Sunday, 1:30p-3:30p) and the Wimbledon Early Round match on KXAN, according to the recent Nielsen overnight ratings for Sunday, June 28, 2009.
Do you prefer Univision or ESPN for this type of programming? Why?
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June 29, 2009
Discovery Channel plans marathon Mays tribute
Discovery Channel will air a marathon of “Pitchmen,” their show starring famed gadget-hawker Billy Mays, on Wednesday, July 1 from 10am-10pm CT. The show follows Mays and co-host Anthony Sullivan as they scour inventors’ products in search of good ideas that need both financial and promotional help.
Mays, 50, died unexpectedly in his sleep Sunday morning in his Tampa, Florida home.
Discovery Channel’s statement on Mays can be found by clicking here.
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June 28, 2009
Would ye like some TV picks?
Colin Morgan as Merlin. Nick Briggs photo/NBC
Who’s your TV buddy? Uh-huh. Once again I’ve scoured through hundreds of hours of upcoming television programming so you don’t have to. Here’s some interesting stuff coming up this week:
Monday, June 29
‘Secrets of the Founding Fathers’ 7pm, History Channel: The founding fathers’ connection with Freemasonry is explored. I’m hoping we might also finally learn what Thomas Jefferson was doing in the conservatory with the lead pipe.
Tuesday, June 30
‘America’s Got Talent’ 8pm, NBC: Nationwide auditions continue. After watching this show last week, I’m confused … is the title supposed to be ironic?
Wednesday, July 1
‘I Survived a Japanese Game Show’ 8pm, ABC: No specific program information was available for this episode. That’s probably just as well, because my Japanese is not good and the translation would probably be pretty messed up.
Thursday, July 2
‘Moments of Impact’ 8pm, Discovery Channel: In this reality series debut, a teenager’s pet lion attacks his friend. It’s okay, you can go back and read that again. Alright, are you back? Good. In related news, I am totally going to stop complaining about these little ants that keep crawling across my desk.
Friday, July 3
‘Don’t Tell the Bride’ 8pm, BBC America: A man hopes his bride-to-be will love the medieval-themed ceremony he planned. I hope he ditches the idea to replace the wedding rings with thumbscrews. Also, those custom vows that read, ‘Do you take this wench?’ might not go over so well.
Saturday, July 4
‘48 Hours Mystery’ 9pm, TLC: The 2001 murder of Kent Heitholt in Columbia, Missouri is investigated. There are lots of fireworks stands in Missouri, so there’s your 4th of July tie-in. Happy Independence Day!
‘Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular’ 9pm, CBS: Would I leave you hanging without a real 4th of July-related pick? No. Craig Ferguson hosts and Neil Diamond performs. I picture Diamond throwing his sequin-studded, jump suited arm around naturalized citizen Ferguson and singing, “he’s commmming to America,” but, oddly, I picture that fairly often.
Sunday, July 5
‘Merlin’ 7pm, NBC: Lancelot saves Merlin from a magical, winged creature, so Merlin talks him up to Arthur. I’m not sure if I’ll be sitting on my throne, munching on a turkey leg and watching this program, but I’ll bet that guy from ‘Don’t Tell the Bride’ never misses it.
‘Storm Stories’ 7pm, The Weather Channel: I keep checking, week after week, but they’re still not covering how my wife corrals us all into the bathtub and throws a mattress on top of us every time the wind gets strong enough that we can hear the chimes.
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June 26, 2009
Texas casting call for 'The Biggest Loser'
Everything’s bigger in Texas, and NBC is counting on it. “The Biggest Loser,” the network’s hit weight-loss reality series, is including San Antonio on a contestant-seeking tour this summer. Producers will be in San Antonio July 11 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Nix downtown, 414 Navarro St.
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June 25, 2009
I'll be all 'Idol' in Dallas on Friday
What will you be doing tomorrow at 4 a.m.?
I’ll be up in Arlington, hitting my snooze alarm “one more time” and dragging myself into the shower before heading over to Cowboys New Stadium for ‘American Idol’ tryouts.
No, I’m not auditioning (unless my singing in the shower sounds particularly good!) but I will be pounding the pavement in 100 degree temps to talk with several Austinites who are. I’ll also blog here about the scene and send out frequent updates — including photos — via Twitter.
Is there anything you’d like to ask Austin’s “Idol” hopefuls? Post your questions below and I’ll pass ‘em along.
You can follow me on Twitter by clicking here.
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June 23, 2009
"Friday Night Lights" fan catches Kitsch on SoCo
Kristin at E! Online has a blog item from a “Friday Night Lights” fan who caught up with Taylor Kitsch in Austin. The actor claims his character, Tim Riggins, is “fully in” for FNL season 4 and has an “awesome storyline.”
In the posting, which includes a great photo of Kitsch near Jo’s Coffee on South Congress, the fan says that “FNL’s” casting director told her that filming will start Sept. 1.
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TV's Ed McMahon dead at 86
Ed McMahon and Johnny Carson on “The Tonight Show.” CBS photo
Legendary sidekick Ed McMahon, who sat beside Johnny Carson for 30 years and acted as the viewers’ stand-in — prodding Carson and laughing boisterously at his jokes — died this morning. He was 86.
The television personality had been hospitalized recently, reportedly suffering from bone cancer and pneumonia.
Although he hadn’t regularly appeared on TV since Carson retired 17 years ago, McMahon remained a pop culture touchstone. In addition to his “Tonight Show” career with Carson (who died in 2005) McMahon hosted “Star Search,” a nationally-televised talent show and forerunner to “American Idol.” More recently, he rapped in commercials for Free Credit Report and appeared in Cash 4 Gold Superbowl ads with MC Hammer.
McMahon and Carson took over “The Tonight Show” in 1962, the year I was born, and continued until well after I was finished with school and into my journalism career. While I can’t point to a specific moment, the memories of McMahon’s booming chortles and gentle needling are an indelible part of the soundtrack of my life.
Do you have favorite memories of Ed McMahon? Please share them with us, below. In the meantime, enjoy a couple of Ed McMahon video clips after the jump.
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June 22, 2009
Friday Night Lights: Let's play two?
Connie Britton as Tami Taylor, Kyle Chandler as Eric Taylor. Bill Records photo, NBC
We’ve known for several months that “Friday Night Lights” has been picked up for another two seasons, with episodes to air first on DirecTV and then later on NBC. But Connie Britton, who plays Principal Tami Taylor in the television series filmed largely around Austin, told Entertainment Weekly’s Michael Ausiello that might be as far as it goes.
“I think the intention is to do two more seasons and then that will be it,” Britton reveals in the EW.com interview. In the video, Britton also discusses the show’s Emmy chances and her thoughts about filming without some familiar friends (including Adrienne Palicki, who is appearing in the remake of “Red Dawn”). “It’s gonna be different to be in Austin without our little core group,” Britton admits.
Meanwhile, executive producer Jason Katims is going to have twice as much work on his hands, juggling show-running duties of both “FNL” and new NBC drama “Parenthood.” Katims insisted his heavy workload won’t result in a quality decline for “Friday Night Lights.”
“’ll figure out a way to work it out,” he told TV Guide’s William Keck in March, prior to “Parenthood” landing a fall-season slot. “It might mean staggering some schedules. We have such an incredible team in Texas. It’s a very smooth running operation, so I have every confidence the show will continue to be everything it was in the past.”
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Idol finalists on musical Journey
The “American Idol” Top 10 (well, Top 9 and a wax dummy … see Adam Lambert photo, left) seem to be full of “Glee.” Rehearsing in Burbank for their nationwide summer tour, the performers worked on a version of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” a song which enjoyed a resurgence in popularity after a catchy madrigal version was featured in the pilot of the FOX fall series, “Glee,” according to the Associated Press. I smell some cross-promotion here. Just sayin’.
The tour kicks off July 5 in Oregon.
In this June 7, 2009 file photo, singer Adam Lambert arrives at the Hollywood Life 11th Annual Young Hollywood Awards in Santa Monica, Calif. Dan Steinberg photo, Associated Press
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June 20, 2009
Fuse TV delivers Bonnaroo to you
Bruce Springsteen at Bonnaroo ‘09. Photo: Star Pix/Fuse 2009
Music fans who missed this year’s 4-day Bonnaroo music festival in Tennessee can check out highlights in a one-hour special on the cable and satellite Fuse network Saturday night. “Fuse Fest: Bonnaroo 2009” airs at 8 pm CT.
The special includes performances by Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Beastie Boys, Nine Inch Nails and Phish, among others.
More information and free Bonnaroo downloads can be found at the Fuse Web site.
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June 18, 2009
Readers: send us your TV photos
About a month ago, when I wrote my debut TV column, I received a lot of nice e-mails from readers welcoming me to the beat. One of these readers, Stuart Leibowitz, responded to one of my “25 things you don’t know about me” items — “#10. I have considered planning a vacation to Minneapolis just so I can see the Mary Tyler Moore statue.”
Stu wrote: “I did a business trip to Minneapolis last month and got a photo with the Mary Tyler Moore statue (see attached). You should go! Or maybe you can just “Photoshop” your photo into my picture …
Glad to oblige! Here’s Stu’s original photo, followed by an altered shot from a wise-acre graphic artist. This is what you meant, isn’t it, Stu?
Do you have any vacation photos from TV show locations? Maybe you had coffee in the “Seinfeld” diner or a slice of cherry pie in “Twin Peaks.” Perhaps you had your picture snapped sitting on Carrie Bradshaw’s stoop from “Sex in the City.”
We want to see them! Click here to email us and be sure to attach your snapshots.
Thanks, Stu!
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June 17, 2009
'Guiding Light' fans -- talk to us!
Hey, soap fans … how do you feel about “The Guiding Light” being cancelled? Did you know it has aired on CBS since 1952? If you’re a regular watcher, we’d like to talk to you for an upcoming story.
Please e-mail us by clicking here.
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Is it time for the Letterman/Palin flap to end?
CNN’s political ticker reports that a protest Tuesday afternoon outside of the Ed Sullivan Theater, where David Letterman tapes his late night CBS talk show, mustered only 15 protesters who “held signs and occasionally shouted” from across the street. The group was outnumbered by more than 35 members of the media “and out-shouted by a few very vocal counter-protesters,” the site claims.
The group was picketing Letterman because of an off-color joke the television personality made about a sexual relationship between Yankees player Alex Rodriguez and former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin’s daughter. The quip has cost CBS at least one advertiser and spurred a complaint to the Federal Communications Commission from Austinite Russell Korman, owner of Russell Korman’s Fine Jewelry & Watches.
Meanwhile, fellow comic and HBO talk show host Bill Maher defended Letterman to CNN’s Wolf Blitzer:
“It was an easy and obvious joke to make. It was funny. It was not offensive in any way,” Maher said of the joke, for which Letterman apologized on his show Monday — an apology Palin has accepted. “And they made it sound like he said something completely different. So he’s apologizing for something he never meant, never thought, and never said.”
Here’s Letterman apology. Palin has accepted it. Is it time for this to end? Tell us what you think:
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June 16, 2009
Austinites: Is one of you the next American Idol?
We’re heading up to Dallas for the ‘American Idol’ auditions. Are you?
If you live in the Austin area and plan to try out on Friday, June 26 at Dallas Cowboys New Stadium, let us know. We’d like to meet you up there, ask you some questions, snap a few pictures and give you some ink (you might as well get used to the paparazzi now).
Mostly we’d like to get in good with you so that when you release your debut CD (we’ll give you a pass on the sure-to-be-crummy “coronation song” Simon Fuller will release as your first single) we can hang with you and get a signed copy.
Click here to e-mail us.
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June 10, 2009
Variety: 'Mad Men' back on August 16th
You might be able to finally let out that breath — you know, the smokey, gin-soaked one you’ve been holding since last October. Variety is reporting that AMC’s “Mad Men” will return at 9 p.m. on August 16.
The starting date has been a source of speculation and angst amongst the show’s rabid fans (including yours truly) ever since the network revealed that the Season 3 premiere would be pushed back from July to August.
There’s no official confirmation from AMC, but the network did post the Variety article on its “Mad Men” Web site. The story also addresses the resolution to the argument between AMC and “Mad Men” creator Matthew Weiner over the length of the show’s episodes. The network wanted to cut two minutes off of the their length in order to sell more advertising (ironic, no?). Weiner objected and, in the end, AMC agreed to simply let the show run two minutes into the next hour.
There’s no new video yet, just that frustrating Season 3 promo. So, instead, enjoy this “Simpsonized” clip of the “Mad Men” opening credits from last year’s ‘Treehouse of Horror’ episode:
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June 9, 2009
'Nurse Jackie' could become a new TV addiction
Edie Falco portrays the titular character in Showtime’s “Nurse Jackie”
Did you get my prescription for Monday night television in Monday’s Austin American-Statesman? Take half an hour of Showtime’s conflicted, addicted “Nurse Jackie” at 9:30 p.m., repeat weekly, refill next season. (Disclosure: I am not a doctor and I don’t play one on TV.)
Here’s what I wrote about the show in my print review:
With a mantra of “Make me good, God — but not yet,” Falco plays a conflicted caregiver. Viewed by many of her patients as a saint — and she does saintly things — she also nurses a prescription drug habit (whether she sleeps with All Saints Hospital’s pharmacist out of passion or a need for pills remains unclear); has serious family issues, apparently of her own making; forges patients’ signatures on organ donor cards; and blithely debates with a doctor friend which of them will interrupt their lunch at a nearby restaurant to help a woman who is choking at the next table. She also flushes a thug’s severed ear down the toilet, but not before holding it up to her mouth and delivering a heartfelt epithet straight into it that she could not say to its owner’s face.
“Nurse Jackie” — hilarious and heartbreaking, is so good that I could not stop watching, rifling through six half-hour episodes in one sitting. The ensemble is remarkable, including Peter Facinelli as cocky Dr. Cooper, Eve Best as Falco’s confidante, Dr. Elenor O’Hara, and especially Merritt Wever as overeager nurse trainee Zoey Brakow. If you have Showtime, please watch.
Aside from some uproar from real-life nurses, the show debuted to good reviews:
Entertainment Weekly found it to be an excellent stylized drama.
The Wall Street Journal calls Jackie Gregory House with a heart.
Journalist/critic/author Marshall Fine agrees with me that “Jackie” pairs up nicely with Showtime’s “Weeds.”
Do you disagree? Will you be tuning in regularly? Let us know by posting your comments below.
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June 8, 2009
New 'Futurama' episodes at Comedy Central?
Well bite my shiny, metal keyboard (it’s one of those slick aluminum Apple jobs!). Collider.com has a fresh rumor about Futurama.
Collider cites an “inside source” who claims that Cartoon Network has ordered 13 new episodes of the whip-smart, underappreciated animated series from the creators of “The Simpsons.” Following the adventures of a pizza delivery boy transported to the year 3000, the series ran from 1999-2003 on FOX and its characters were most recently seen in four straight-to-DVD movies which later aired on Comedy Central, current site of ‘Futurama’ reruns.
If the rumor pans out, expect an announcement at July’s Comic Con, where the quartet of movie titles were previously announced.
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'American Idol' Kris Allen sings Anthem, inks contract
Kris Allen sings the National Anthem before game 2 of the 2009 NBA Finals
Fresh off his National Anthem performance before game 2 of the NBA finals Sunday, “American Idol” champ Kris Allen has been officially signed to 19 Recordings/Jive Records, Entertainment Weekly reports.
I hadn’t realized that Allen already has two singles on the Billboard Hot 100, including the stupid, awful coronation theme “No Boundaries” (co-written by Idol judge Kara DioGuardi). If that aural mess can chart so high, it only bodes well for Allen’s full album’s late fall release.
Are you the next American Idol?
The FOX television show just wrapped its 8th season, but season 9 audition dates have been announced and Dallas is on the list. Registrations are June 24-25 with tryouts on the 26th. If you’re planning on hopping the highway to stardom (that would be I-35 North) by auditioning, please e-mail me at droe@statesman.com. We might want to follow you up there for a future story.
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June 7, 2009
'I'm A Celebrity' star Heidi Pratt hospitalized
In what can only be described, if true, as a bone thrown to viewers, tmz.com reports that Heidi Pratt (“The HIlls”) and her husband Spencer, stars of NBC’s summer reality offering, “I’m A Celebrity — Get Me Out Of Here!,” have been “tortured” by the network for attempting to leave the show.
The Web site claims a cast member compared treatment of the Pratts, who were locked in a dark room for a day and night with only rice, water and beans, to that of detainees at Guantanamo Bay. Ms. Pratt was reportedly taken to a hospital where she was diagnosed diagnosed with a gastric ulcer.
It’s hard to imagine how the likes of Sanjaya Malakar or Stephen Baldwin would know about the inner workings at Gitmo (although, if there’s any justice, Rod Blagojevich, former Illinois Governor and wife of the show’s Patti, might eventually spend some time there) but it’s a safe bet that the only real torture NBC is inflicting is upon anyone who accidentally lands on this show while channel surfing.
The Pratts (best name-to-occupation match since my old hometown’s Chiropractor, “Will Tickle”) have been pulling a “we’re leaving … no, we’re staying” routine since the show began last week, successfully making themselves the most annoying and talked-about contestants. It remains to be seen if this hoopla is all just designed to generate more publicity for “Celebrity,” which takes up two more hours of network prime time Monday at 7 p.m.
NBC may be trying to pass this obnoxious couple off as famous, but my prediction is that the only way they’ll get TV time after this show ends is by having octuplets.
Are you a “Celebrity” fan? Do you think this is all orchestrated? Post your comments below.
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June 5, 2009
Bad news for Mike Judge's "The Goode Family"
“The Goode Family” is on the move, but they’re not necessarily movin’ on up. ABC is shifting Austinite Mike Judge’s underperforming animated comedy to Fridays at 8pm starting June 12, according to this TV Week article.
The move does not bode well for the show, which pokes fun at a family of politically correct tree huggers. It debuted to average critical response but has failed to catch on with viewers.
The May 27 pilot episode debuted to nearly 4 million viewers while the third episode (aired just one week later in a “Goode” double-header) attracted just over half that number, and failed to hold a million viewers from that evening’s first outing.
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Comedy Central Command: Colbert takes show to Iraq
In this photo provided by the U.S. Air Force, talk show host Stephen Colbert poses next to an Air Force jet at the Republic airport in East Farmingdale, N.Y. on Friday, May 22, 2009.
“Better know a green zone?” “Tip of the helmet, wag of the finger?” Colbert nation, prepare to mobilize.
Stephen Colbert is taking his faux punditry to Iraq and, as he would be the first to tell you, he is a formidable faux.
From Monday, June 8 through Thursday, June 11 the 10:30 p.m. Comedy Central show becomes a USO tour entitled “Operation Iraqi Stephen: Going Commando,” and Colbert will tape and perform shows in front of the troops.
“The USO counts this as military service, right? I might want to run for office some day,” Colbert said.
The location of Colbert’s road trip, which the show had been keeping secret, was leaked last week when Alaska Governor and former Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin revealed via the social media tool Twitter that she was taping a segment. “Getting ready to tape shout-out for our awesome US troops serving overseas!” Palin tweeted on May 29. “Will be on Colbert Report next month, broadcast from Iraq…”
The shows, taped at an undisclosed military base, will feature segments including Colbert putting together USO care packages for the troops and more shout outs from other notable figures presumably much better at keeping secrets. Guests include: Deputy Prime Minister of Iraq, Barham Salih; Gen. Ray Odierno, commanding general, Multi National Force- Iraq ; and a host of other American and Iraqi military personnel.
Colbert will post his own updates from base on Twitter. You can follow him by clicking here.
Proceeds from sales of “The Colbert Report” on iTunes during the week of June 8 will benefit the USO.
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June 4, 2009
Precursor to Emmys: TV critics announce award nominees
The Television Critics Association just announced the nominees for its 2009 Awards, honoring the finest work of the 2008-09 television season as selected by the association’s 200-plus member critics and journalists. The winners will be announced August 1. Chelsea Handler, host of E!’s “Chelsea Lately,” will open the ceremony.
NBC, fresh off of ribbing from its new “The Tonight Show” host Conan O’Brien about being the network that nobody watches, leads the pack with 11 nominations, including comedies “30 Rock,” “The Office” and “Saturday Night Live,” which garnered 7 nominations total. “Friday Night Lights,” which initially aired on DirecTV, got a nomination along with long-time series “ER.” NBC also received a nomination for its coverage of the 2008 Summer Olympics.
“Battlestar Galactica,” “Lost,” “Mad Men,” Saturday Night Live” and “The Shield” are up for program of the year.
Check out a complete list of TCA Award nominations after the jump.
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June 3, 2009
'Mad Men' promo makes me mad
Hey, tailored, slim-cut suits over at AMC … when are we going to get to see some authentic “Mad Men” season 3 footage?
There’s been a lot of buzz this week on Twitter and Facebook about “the new ‘Mad Men’ trailer,” but this is not a trailer. It’s a teaser. It tells us nothing new and, while it’s nice to see Don Draper and company again, it only serves to spoil several major plot points for anyone who hasn’t watched the previous two seasons.
Season 3 kicks off in August, so hopefully we’ll be seeing some new stuff soon. In the meantime, this is all we’ve got:
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June 2, 2009
Here are some thoughts on last night's 'Tonight,' today
Paul Drinkwater photo, NBC
Like many of you (Gawker reports that the show pulled in the program’s highest Monday numbers in four years) I watched Conan O’Brien’s eagerly anticipated “Tonight Show” debut last night. Unlike most of you, I watched it at 1 a.m. on DVR in an antihistamine-induced stupor, so if some of my observations come across as fevered hallucinations, well, maybe they are. Nevertheless, here are my initial thoughts:
I liked the opening piece with Conan running across America after realizing, a few minutes prior to showtime, that he had forgotten to check off his list item, “Move to L.A.” His impromptu stops in Wrigley Field and, later, a doll shop, were priceless. Nice shout out to the Amish, too.
Did anyone else think it was odd that Conan’s monologue was so long and included so many pre-taped bits? Wasn’t it about a half an hour or so into the program when he finally got over to his desk? Don’t get me wrong — I thought it was funny. I guess I’m just used to seeing the standard format: short monologue with jokes; band plays host over to desk; host does comedy “bit”; first guest. I hope this isn’t the sum total of Conan’s plans to shake up late-night.
I wonder if this will continue to be the pattern. Conan seemed a little needy last night, as if he were throwing everything he had at America; it was clear that he really, really wanted to be liked.
It was nice to see Andy Richter back, but he needs to dial it down. His overboard laughter at everything Conan said led me to believe he might be channeling Ed McMahon (I half expected to hear a shout of “Hey-O!” or to hear him say, “you are correct, oh great one!”) Andy and Conan also talked over each other quite a bit, but I’m confident they’ll get their rhythm back soon. I’m not sure I like Andy being separated from Conan all the way over at that podium; let’s see how long that lasts.
Finally, what was with Conan’s repetitive shout outs to the set builders? We got it the first couple of times. Was it just a case of nerves or have the Teamsters got something on him? Maybe they’re doing some side work on his new California digs. Come to think of it, they probably stuck Andy over at that announcer’s lectern with the plan to eventually tear it down and move him over to the couch with Conan, just so he can thank the set builders again.
I’ll be back with another look at “The Tonight Show” in a few weeks, after Conan’s had a chance to settle in. In the meantime, I’ll be watching. Will you?
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Will Ferrell guests on 'Man vs. Wild' tonight
Will Ferrell, the overgrown, lunkish, man-child star of films such as “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” and “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby” is accompanying Bear Grylls to the northern Sweden wilderness on “Man vs. Wild,” 9 p.m. tonight on Discovery Channel.
In order to promote his movie “Land of the Lost” — opening June 5 — Ferrell hangs from a helicopter by a rope, sleeps in a snow cave and dines on reindeer eyeballs.
As Ron Burgundy might say, “stay classy, Discovery Channel.”
The Associated Press reports that the cable network has been mulling a celebrity version of Grylls’ show and is using the Ferrell episode as a pilot of sorts.
Since Discovery Channel plans to run with this idea, which other pampered celebrities would you like to see tough it out Grylls style? Where would you send them? Post your ideas below.
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June 1, 2009
Boyle loses? Britain's got talons
“Britain’s Got Talent” runner-up and Internet phenomenon Susan Boyle is being treated for exhaustion at a mental health clinic in London today, according to the Associated Press.
Amidst cries of unfair treatment by the media, Boyle was admitted to The Priory, a clinic that caters to celebrities.
“Nobody has had to put up with the kind of attention Susan has had. Nobody could have predicted it,” Piers Morgan, a “Britain’s Got Talent” judge, said on British television.
Admonishment of “elements of a press who like nothing better than to build people up and then drag them down” came from Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmond (Boyle resides in a small Scottish town).
In the end, predicted winner Boyle, who sang “I Dreamed A Dream” from “Les Miserables,” lost to Diversity, a dance group, by almost 5 percent of the 4 million votes cast.
Here are the show’s final performances from Boyle and Diversity, as well as the naming of the winner.
Susan Boyle:
Diversity:
And the winner is …
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'Multiple' happenings on reality television
If Kate and Jon Gosselin’s crumbling marriage leads to the cancellation of their TLC reality show (will you be watching tonight?) we all have something else to look forward to: the Associated Press is reporting that Nadya Suleman has inked a deal to star in her own television gig.
A production company has signed the “Octomom” (who, in addition to her six other children, gave birth to six boys and two girls in January) to a documentary-style show “less intrusive than a reality TV type of program.”
The show hasn’t yet been sold to an American television network. TLC (home of “Jon & Kate Plus 8”) had expressed interest in working with Sulemon following the octuplets’ births but, according to Entertainment Weekly, the backlash against the idea on the cable network’s message boards led TLC to reconsider.
Netherlands production company Eyeworks “came up with this idea, presented (it) to her and she liked it because she’ll get to use a camera and do some of the filming herself,” Sulemon’s lawyer told The Associated Press.
Well, yeah, that explains it. It would be a shame to let the logistics and rigors of raising fourteen kids under the age of 7 as a single mother get in the way of some fun videography — everybody needs a creative outlet!
I haven’t heard of any possible titles being floated for the show, so let me suggest the one of the following — Eyeworks, take your pick:
Eight Isn’t Enough
The More, The Scarier
Ocean’s 14 (hey, she lives in California — there’s gotta’ be a body of water around there somewhere)
The Young and the Restless (whoops, already taken!)
Almost 16 Candles
Fertility Bites
Can’t wait, but hate Jon & Kate? WEtv, home of “Platinum Weddings” and “Women Behind Bars,” debuts “Raising Sextuplets” June 11 at 9 p.m. The show chronicles the lives of proud parents Jenny (TCU grad!) and Bryan Masche, and their babies Savannah Jane, Bailey Elizabeth, Grant William, Cole Robert, Molli Grace and Blake Nickolas.
Jenny describes the “multiples” experience on the WE site:
“The great joy of raising sextuplets is definitely the six smiling faces calling out ‘mama, dada,’ the twelve little feet running toward you and the twelve little arms around your neck hugging you! Six little mouths to kiss and six little ones to cuddle… the amount of love we experience for the six of them is sometimes incomprehensible, and we feel our hearts may burst!”
Don’t worry, Jenny. Should that happen, there’ll be plenty of camera men, wardrobe folks, boom mic operators and other crew members around to dial 911.
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May 29, 2009
'Idol' judge outs Adam Lambert on 'The View'
This morning on “The View,” “American Idol” judge Kara DioGuardi told Barbara Walters that “Idol” runner-up Adam Lambert is gay.
“I don’t think that Adam was ever in (the closet),” DioGuardi told Walters. “I think he was always openly out.”
Lambert has been coy about his sexuality, a subject of speculation and debate during the “Idol” season.
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May 28, 2009
Texas Film Hall of Fame Awards highlights on KLRU tonight
Brendan Fraser and Catherine Hardwicke were among the honorees at the Texas Film Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony at Austin Studios Thursday, March 12, 2009. Thomas Haden Church, right, emceed the event. Photo by Larry Koolvord, Austin American-Statesman
Didn’t fraternize with Fraser? Missed hobnobbing with Billy Bob? See them from 8-9 p.m. tonight as highlights from the 2009 Texas Film Hall of Fame Awards are shown on KLRU. The awards ceremony, which was held at Austin Studios on March 12, 2009, will also be re-broadcast on KLRU2 at 9 p.m. June 3.
Emceed by Thomas Haden Church, this year’s honorees were Larry Hagman, Powers Boothe, Catherine Hardwicke, Thornton and the Wes Anderson film, “Rushmore.” Presenters included Linda Gray, Keith Carradine, Brendan Fraser and Dennis Quaid. Luke Wilson accepted honors on behalf of “Rushmore’s” cast and crew.
Other special guests included “Friday Night Lights” cast members Kyle Chandler, Connie Britton, Brad Leland and Dana Wheeler-Nicholson. Grammy Award-winning musician Ray Benson, 2003 Hall of Fame inductee Tobe Hooper (director of 1974’s “Texas Chainsaw Massacre”), Beastie Boy Adam Yauch and AFS Artistic Director and 2007 Hall of Fame inductee Richard Linklater, who honored the work of Horton Foote, are also featured. Foote was inducted into the Texas Film Hall of Fame in 2003 and died earlier this year at the age of 92.
Located at Austin Film Society’s Austin Studios, the Texas Film Hall of Fame Awards are presented by AT&T and recognize actors, directors, screenwriters, musicians, filmmakers and films from, influenced or inspired by the Lone Star State. The proceeds from the event benefit the educational and artistic programs of AFS.
For more information on Austin Film Society, visit the group’s Web site.
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It's a good start for Mike Judge's 'Goode' comedy
Mike Judge is no stranger to poking fun. “Office Space” skewered corporate America while “King of the Hill” took on the frequently redneck residents of Arlen, Texas. “Beavis and Butt-head?” Well, they pretty much disdained everything they saw, whether it was music videos or each other.
But at the heart of it all — yes, even in “Beavis,” there was a genuine affection for the characters, and that’s what’s missing — so far — in Judge’s “The Goode Family,” a new half-hour animated sitcom which pokes fun at a family of zealous tree-huggers (they even have a vegan dog). The folks in “King of the Hill” were so well-rounded and real, and the dialogue so sharp and authentic, that the show could have been easily produced with a live-action cast. “Goode,” however, is crammed full of jokes, and not the subtle, character-based kind for which “KotH” was famous.
The pilot episode opens cleverly enough, with a close-up of a hybrid auto’s bumper and a sticker which reads, “Support our troops — and their opponents.” The Goodes shop at a Whole Foods-like store even though they can’t really afford it because, well, it’s the right thing to do (and the cheaper stores are off limits because “they don’t even have a mission statement.”)
Hey — it’s not easy being green.
The animation is reminiscent of “KotH” and the voice talent is good, especially Judge as the Goode family patriarch, Gerald, whose cadence is identical to Hank Hill’s even though the two characters could not sound more different. A subplot which poked fun at abstinence-only zealots and chastity balls makes me hopeful that “Goode” is not just the one-note, green-bashing series intimated by ABC’s promos.
Here’s what the perceived left and right thought about “The Goode Family:”
First up, NPR. Under the headline, “The Goode Family”: Mike Judge’s Disappointing New Comedy, Linda Holmes writes:
What Judge is trying to get at here is a richly mockable comedic target; satire about the tensions between environmental responsibility and convenience, the tendency to proselytize about hybrid cars, whatever — there’s plenty of raw material … But the execution just isn’t funny enough to justify watching an entire half-hour show to get to those moments — even in the summer.
Over on the other side, FOX News hasn’t weighed in with a review, but for an advance article about the show, the network found a media expert who called it an antidote to the raft of PC-leaning network comedies.
Did you watch “The Goode Family?” Will you watch again? Are you surprised that FOX News was optimistic while NPR clearly did not like the show?
Post your thoughts below.
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May 27, 2009
AT&T addresses "Idol" Arkansas vote controversy
Addressing the Internet buzz that an inordinate, fishy amount of “American Idol” votes coming from winner Kris Allen’s home state of Arkansas (allegedly 38 million of the 100 million votes cast) tilted the contest in his favor, the Associated Press is reporting that “overeager company employees” helped Arkansas fans vote by text at viewing parties — but didn’t influence the final results.
Adam Lambert fans, what do you think?
Click here for the whole story.
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Will greenies think the new Mike Judge comedy is 'Goode?'
Austinite Mike Judge has a new show, “The Goode Family,” premiering tonight at 8 p.m. on KVUE (ABC). The half-hour, animated comedy from the creator of “King of the Hill” and “Office Space” focuses on the Goodes, a family of hardcore tree huggers whose motto is ‘WWAGD — What Would Al Gore Do?’
Research led me to this post by Mother Nature Network blogger Shea Gunther. He posted a few clips from the show — and a synopsis — but offered little opinion beyond this: “I’m really excited about ‘The Goode Family,’ a new animated series from Mike Judge, the voice and brains behind ‘King of the Hill’.”
I wanted to know why a environmental activist would be excited about a show that appears to have set its satiric sights on environmental activists (apparently so did some of his readers, who responded to his post with disbelief) so I got a hold of Gunther, who was kind enough to elaborate.
“I’m excited about the Goode Family because I’m a huge fan of Mike Judge,” Gunther says. “I think ‘King of the Hill’ is one of the better shows on TV; he has a subtle touch that humanizes the red neck Texan lifestyle as seen through the Hill family. I’m hopeful that he’ll do the same for greenies through the Goode family.”
Gunther insists he’s not worried about the show’s potential to poke fun at environmental activists. “First off,” he says, “we’re a pretty funny group of people — we put our food scraps in special containers on the kitchen counter, wear funky clothes, eat funny food, and sometimes we smell bad. What’s not to laugh about that?”
He claims that a group has to be able to laugh at itself if it hopes to become a mainstream movement.
“You know you’ve hit the big time when either ‘The Simpsons,’ ‘South Park’ or Mike Judge are making fun of you,” he says. “We just have to roll with it and enjoy the ride.”
Gunther claims that environmentalists, as a whole, don’t mind being made fun of.
“The most hilariously stereotypical environmentalists will probably get all huffy about it, not that that’s a hard thing to do. For the most part though, we’re a fun bunch of people and I think ‘The Goode Family’ is going to find many a fan in the world of greenies.”
What do you think? Do you use special containers for your table scraps? What’s your take on “The Goode Family?”
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May 25, 2009
'Jon & Kate' not getting along so great
I must confess that I’m not a “Jon & Kate Plus 8” watcher. Having spent the early years of my marriage around a bunch of daycare infants, I’ve really had no desire to relive the trials and tribulations of child rearing vicariously through the Gosselin couple, their twins and sextuplets.
Lately, though, as the show prepared to head into its fifth season, the hype has been impossible to escape. Salacious tabloid headlines are everywhere, and if “Jon,” “Kate” and “infidelity” were terrorist buzzwords, recent Internet chatter would have placed the country on high alert.
I watched several episodes of the “J&K” TLC marathon, trying to understand what all the excitement was about — the March 23 season four finale scored the best ratings in the series’ history. The big question then was how the couple’s marriage was tolerating their growing celebrity, and a cliffhanger of a fourth-season ender led viewers and the Gosselins alike to wonder if the show would continue.
But here they are and, according to an interview with Entertainment Weekly, they’re doing it for the kids.
Today’s premiere hammered that point home relentlessly as the Gosselins’ celebrated (?) the sextuplets’ 5th birthday party. Opening with separate interviews of a weary-looking, flush and unshaven Jon and an immaculate Kate (was there any doubt she’d have this all compartmentalized and tidy?) the show seemed to dive right into the tabloid controversy but, in reality, barely broke the surface of the shallow end. There were plenty of references to vague indiscretions, but few details and no direct admissions of guilt.
Kate dismissed the claims of an affair with her bodyguard outright, explaining that she travels for her job (she has authored books based on her experiences raising eight children) and must take security with her. The tabloids’ allegations, she protested, made her furious. That’s all we heard about that.
Much more time was indirectly spent on reports that Jon had engaged in an affair with a 23-year-old schoolteacher (photos of the pair driving together are easily found online). Jon says “Whether it’s true or false doesn’t matter — it affects every part of your life.” He claims that he hasn’t been thinking clearly enough for months, but adds, “I never cheated on Kate, and that’s the way it is.”
Still, no matter what they say to each other in private, there’s more going on here than the Gosselins are willing to admit to their audience, at least so far.
Much of the episode focused on preparations for the children’s birthday party. Jon was noticeably absent, and Kate didn’t miss an opportunity to point out that she was handling all of the preparations by herself.
During the party itself, both spouses are in attendance. They walk past each other many times but fail to acknowledge each other’s presence. The children, eating cake and swinging at pinatas, seem oblivious to the marital strife. In the couch interview at the end of the show, when we do finally see Jon and Kate together, they are together in only the most perfunctory way, and they remain so for only a short time.
Neither can describe the status of their relationship; neither can predict where it’s heading.
Kate, wiping tears from her eyes, says the party was important because it could be “our last family picture.” Jon talks about how important it is to be friends and able to get along “whether you’re married or not married.”
They both talk about how they need to make sure their kids remain safe, happy and loved.
It remains to be seen if the show’s many fans will stick with it if its main themes become “can this marriage be saved?” and the paparazzi-bashing cries of “we never asked for any of this” (yes, you did).
My impression heading into this episode was that Kate was depicted as a shrew, constantly putting her husband down and taking him to task. What a difference a few months can make. I am aware that reality show plotlines are skewed to and fro through editing as nimbly as if they were written in advance, but Kate really came across as the sympathetic character here.
In the end, her birthday-party observation about the irony of how we treat cartoonish pinatas serves as an apt subconscious assessment of the growing pains her show (and family) is going through: “You have characters you love,” she says, “and you just beat ’em to death.”
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May 22, 2009
Pamela who? Former Austinite worked on just-cancelled ABC show
There’s a familiar, local name amidst the casualties of ABC’s May 18 cancellation of the Christina Applegate vehicle, “Samantha Who.”
Austinites might remember the show’s executive story editor, Pamela Ribon, from distant past work with local comedy ensemble “Monk’s Night Out” and her contributions to the Big Stinkin’ Sketch and Improv Comedy Festival and FronteraFest. In addition to a slew of local and national theatrical events, Ribon (currently residing in Los Angeles) has also worked on the television shows “Hot Properties” and “Mind of Mencia.” She was a charter contributor to “Technopolis,” The American-Statesman’s late, lamented personal technology section.
“Samantha Who” was the highest-rated sitcom to debut during the 2007-2008 television season, but lost several million viewers while changing time slots in its second season and moving from Monday to Thursday nights this spring. Variety claims that the large number of new series ABC picked up this fall made “Samantha” expendable.
“It was a pleasure working with everybody and I’m honored to have been part of such a fine show,” Ribon says. She’s finishing up her third novel — she calls it “kind of an eat, pray, love about roller derby (eat, cry, shove, if you will)” — and looking forward to her next television adventure.
Read more about the self-proclaimed pop culture princess at her Web site.
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May 21, 2009
Why isn't Adam our 'Idol?'
The Internet sea is roiling today with analysis of Kris Allen’s “American Idol” win and what it says about you, me and our attitudes toward Adam Lambert’s undeclared sexual preference. Here are a few quick takes:
The TV Addict calls the contest a “lose/lose conclusion,” arguing that depending which way the outcome landed, it would have been viewed as either a victory for left-leaning liberals or indication of a conspiracy on the part of “Idol” judges.
New York Magazine’s Chris Rozvar, in its “Vulture” column, argues that loser Adam Lambert’s ambiguous sexuality was not a factor as much as the simple fact that he is different, pointing out that, “when placed in the context of Kris, or even Danny Gokey, (Lambert) represents The Other.”
The American-Statesman’s own Michael Barnes blogs about the show’s gay-straight social dynamic, comparing the two finalists’ victory/defeat embrace to that of last year’s contenders, David Cook and David Archuleta: “The cute, straight, gay-friendly boy (Allen) clearly bonded deeply with the accomplished, glamorous, presumably gay man (Lambert). And both seemed comfortable with the power sharing. That flips last year’s finale relationship, when the cute, friendly, presumably gay boy (I could be wrong) bonded with the accomplished, somewhat glamorous straight man. And both seemed relieved by the outcome.”
The New York Times’ Alessandra Stanley contends that the vote doesn’t reveal as much about the state of America as does the success of the ‘Idol” machine itself: “ ‘American Idol’ matters not just as a pop culture phenomenon, but as an institution that works — with scary efficiency — at a time when so many other American enterprises seem flawed or imperiled. It stands out this season in particular: ‘American Idol’ is a money-making machine in the middle of a worldwide recession, an old-fashioned must-see television hit at a time when the Internet and cable have eaten away at the networks’ hegemony.”
What do you think? Did America crown Kris Allen based solely on his vocal abilities? Are we ready for a possibly-gay Idol? Does it matter? Post your opinions below.
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The CW announces its fall schedule
Last to the party, The CW has announced it’s 2009-2010 primetime schedule.
There are no surprises on Mondays, as the popular “Gossip Girl” and “One Tree Hill” carry on with business as usual.
It’s back to the ’90s on Tuesdays: A reboot of nighttime soaper “Melrose Place” joins the second-season of “90210” in a nostalgic lineup. The new version of “Melrose” finds Laura Leighton reprising her original-version role of Sydney Andrews, now landlady of the elegant, Spanish-style apartment building in the trendy Los Angeles area. 18-year-old Violet Foster (Ashlee Simpson-Wentz, “7th Heaven”) arrives in L.A. with a secret connection to Sydney, joining an ensemble of attractive, 20-something tenants. The pilot episode revolves around a dead body floating in the courtyard pool, but you probably already guessed that.
On Wednesdays, “America’s Next Top Model” leads into a new fashion-fueled drama from producer Ashton Kutcher. “The Beautiful Life” sounds a lot like “Melrose Place, 10021” featuring a cut-throat group of young, beautiful and very sexy models living together in a models’ residence in New York City. The show features Sara Paxton (“Last House on the Left”), Mischa Barton (“The O.C.”) and supermodel Elle Macpherson.
Thursdays go all Adam Lambert-y (shout out to disappointed “Idol” fans — woo!) as the new “The Vampire Diaries” joins “Supernatural” for a gothic-tinged evening (lets call it the “Twilight” zone). “Diaries” follows two vampire brothers obsessed with the same girl as they battle to control a town’s fate.
“Smallville” dons its cape and flies up-up-and-away to Fridays, followed by a less-super encore of “America’s Next Top Model.”
“Parental Discretion Advised” is slated to appear mid-season. Billed as a heartwarming dramedy, the series explores the aftermath of a young girl’s discovery of her biological parents.
Check out the full schedule (with complete synopses) after the jump, courtesy of The CW.
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May 20, 2009
Kris Allen wins 'American Idol'
At the end of a star-studded finale, and after nearly 100 million votes were cast, 23-year-old Kris Allen was named “American Idol” Season 8 champion over rival Adam Lambert. The singer-songwriter from Conway, Arkansas — noted for accompanying himself on guitar or piano and twisting the arrangements of popular songs — bested his rival, 27-year-old actor and singer Lambert.
“Idol” makers seemed to be pushing for Lambert: two weeks ago, Simon Cowell all but told America to vote for him and, during Tuesday’s performance show, Lambert received the lion’s share of the judges’ praise. But America was not ready to crown such an unusual contestant who favored the outrageous and theatrical over Allen’s more mainstream style and homey charm.
The finale was much more elaborate than in recent years, featuring performances from the sublime to the ridiculous: The last female contestant to leave the show, Allison Iraheta, sang a beautiful duet of “Time After Time” with Cyndi Lauper, while Lambert glammed up the stage with KISS. Allen and Lambert (whose vocal stylings have been unwisely compared to Freddie Mercury’s) delivered a spirited rendition of “We Are The Champions” with the surviving members of Mercury’s band, Queen (perhaps Lambert has found his post-Idol gig).
Allen seemed genuinely surprised and gracious, telling host Ryan Seacrest, “I don’t even know what to say right now; I’m not even here,” and claiming that Lambert deserved to win. And in the end, American was forced to endure one final rendition of “No Boundaries,” the awful coronation power ballad co-written by new “Idol” judge Kara DioGuardi. Even seeing DioGuardi almost strip down to a bikini for charity mid-show did not excuse that.
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CBS announces fall lineup: moves 'The Mentalist,' picks up 'Medium'
Here’s the Associated Press report on the CBS fall slate:
NEW YORK (AP) — A couple of television crime-fighters are on the move: Patricia Arquette and “Medium” from NBC to CBS, and Simon Baker’s “The Mentalist” to CBS’ Thursday-night lineup.
CBS, the last of the top four broadcasters to reveal its fall schedule to advertisers this week, said it was canceling “Without a Trace,” “The Unit” and “Eleventh Hour.” New series with Jenna Elfman and Julianna Margulies are moving in.
The nation’s most popular network is a model of stability in a roiled broadcast industry. It’s the only network with more viewers this season than last, yet still lost money because of a depressed advertising market.
CBS moved quickly to grab “Medium.” As an aging show, production costs were going up. But since it is made by a production company owned by CBS Corp., the costs were more easily absorbed by CBS. It lands on CBS’ Friday schedule at 9 p.m., between “Ghost Whisperer” and “Numb3rs.”
Simon Baker’s “The Mentalist” was broadcast TV’s only real new hit this season, and CBS decided to move it from Tuesday nights to Thursday at 10 p.m.
Thursdays are important for networks as they seek income from advertisers like film studios looking ahead to the weekend. CBS also said it sees the chance to gain a competitive edge at 10 p.m. with NBC’s decision to air Jay Leno’s new comedy show at that hour each weeknight.
“No matter how well he does, there’s going to be more (audience) share available at 10 o’clock for people who put on great dramas,” said CBS Corp. chief executive Leslie Moonves, “and that’s what we do.”
CBS tinkered with its Monday-night comedy lineup, except for 9 p.m. stalwart “Two and a Half Men.” The network is moving “How I Met Your Mother” up a half hour to 8 p.m., and shifting “Big Bang Theory” to 9:30 p.m. in the hope of nurturing it as a hit.
Elfman’s new show, “Accidentally on Purpose,” debuts at 8:30 p.m. Based on a true story, it’s about a San Francisco film critic who gets pregnant after a one-night stand with a young slacker, then decides to keep both the baby and the dad.
Much like it did with its “CSI” franchise, CBS is now spinning off “NCIS,” which has surprised even network executives with its burst of popularity the past year or so. “NCIS: Los Angeles” features Chris O’Donnell and rapper LL Cool J as a former Navy SEAL, and will air directly after “NCIS” on Tuesday.
CBS says it has an opportunity on Tuesdays with ABC, NBC and Fox’s schedules that night dominated by reality shows like “Dancing With the Stars” and “The Biggest Loser.” “If you don’t want to watch reality, we are the only game in town,” said Kelly Kahl, CBS’ chief scheduling executive.
Margulies stars in “The Good Wife,” about a stay-at-home mom forced back into the workplace when her politically prominent husband is sent to prison after a sex scandal. It will air Tuesdays at 10 p.m.
CBS is bringing on one other new series in the fall. “Three Rivers,” to air Sundays at 9 p.m., is a medical drama about organ donation.
CBS also renewed the comedy “The New Adventures of Old Christine,” which ABC had been eager to pick up if CBS didn’t want to air it any longer.
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'Idol' speculation: Kris Allen takes it
Kris Allen and Adam Lambert squared off last night in what “American Idol” host Ryan Seacrest called the battle of “the guy next door vesus the guyliner.” Here’s my take:
Round one: Contestants’ choice
Adam reprised his popular rendition of Tears for Fears’ “Mad World,” but with a “Twilight” twist, wearing a floor-length black coat and prowling a stage covered in ethereal clouds of dry-ice smoke. He also imbued it with a more romantic, less desperate tone this time out. I guess he was going for votes from the teen girls and moms who drove that movie’s box office.
Kris slid onto a piano bench and reprised his version of Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine,” a judge and fan favorite from earlier in the season. Sweet and soulful, Kris’ confidence was up, the vocals were solid and the performance seemed sweet and genuine.
Winner: Kris. Both contenders chose the right songs, very important at this point in the competition. The judges heaped praise on each, but Simon called this round correctly.
Round two: Producer’s choice
Simon Fuller chose “A Change Is Gonna Come,” a classic R&B tune — and a really interesting pick — for Adam. It seems like the whole “Idol” machine wants Adam to win, and it’s hard to imagine a better number to woo fans of Danny Gokey, whose votes will decide the winner. Adam cleans up nicely, does a stellar job with the vocals and appropriately tones down the facial tics.
Kris is assigned Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Goin’ On.” This time he brings out an acoustic guitar and strums along and croons with a few bongo players. It’s pleasant enough, but Kris’ fans are used to seeing him really change up the arrangements on these familiar tunes and his performance here is pretty basic. Also, he’s doing that thing again with the strained face that makes him look like the more stupid brother from “My Name Is Earl.”
Winner: Adam. Viewers got to see a different kind of performance from him — and a good one, so different from “Mad World” — while Kris, though good, gave us more of the same.
Round three: Huh?
Fans hoping for a better coronation song from “Idol” judge (and — as we kept hearing all season — professional songwriter!) Kara DioGuardi than previous years’ viewer-penned efforts had to be disappointed with that mess. “No Boundaries” is the aural poster child for the kind of pointless, inspirational power ballad so loved by the show’s runners, but loathed by its target audience. Honestly, who is ever going to run out and buy this song? The show needs to take a clue from its two finalists, neither of whom is suited to interpret this kind of sappy dreck (nor cram that many syllables into a measure way too short for them): the “Idol” dynamic is changing, and this coronation song business needs to keep up with the times.
Both contestants gave it a go, but neither could be expected to do anything special with that material. Perhaps Kris could have tipped the scales by accompanying himself again, maybe on the xylophone. Considering it was a toss-up, the judges’ gushing over Adam and damning of Kris with faint praise seemed especially transparent.
Winner: Anyone whose DVR stopped early.
While I think Adam is more talented and deserves to win, I still believe that the more marketable and familiar Kris will take most of the Danny Gokey votes, and the title.
What do you think?
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May 19, 2009
'Heroes,' 'Chuck' return to NBC this fall; 'Friday Night Lights' back in summer, 2010
Here’s the report on NBC’s fall schedule announcement from the Associated Press
NEW YORK (AP) — NBC is giving the equivalent of broadcast timeshares to “Heroes,” “Chuck” and some of its six new series to keep airing original fare in a schedule where the chief constant is Jay Leno.
The network is building prime time and its hopes to escape fourth place around Leno and the boldest experiment in network television in some time. His comedy show will begin airing at 10 p.m. five nights a week in the fall.
With the workaholic Leno providing new material year-round, NBC felt the need to surround him with as few repeats as possible, said Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment and Universal Movie Studios.
“We’ll have more original programming this year than ever before,” he said.
The oddball secret agent series “Chuck” was on the bubble until saved by an enthusiastic campaign by fans and a sponsorship deal with Subway. It will air 8 p.m. Mondays after NBC televises the Winter Olympics, while “Heroes” occupies that time slot in the fall.
Similarly, NBC will air the new series about paramedics in San Francisco, “Trauma,” at 9 p.m. Mondays next fall. The new science fiction “Day One” will replace it in the spring. The idea of limited-run series has seeped into broadcast TV from cable, with viewers showing little patience anymore for reruns.
NBC will start its new Chevy Chase series “Community” Thursdays after “The Office” in the fall, with the Emmy-winning “30 Rock” coming on the air about a month late due in part to movie commitments this summer by Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin. The network is opening Thursdays with a handful of “Weekend Update” specials from “Saturday Night Live,” followed by the Amy Poehler mockumentary “Parks and Recreation.”
“My Name is Earl” was shown the door, along with “Medium” and the game show “Deal or No Deal.”
The fall schedule will include the return of “Law & Order” for its 20th season, which will tie it with “Gunsmoke” as TV’s longest-running prime-time drama.
NBC had previously announced that sister show “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” will return in the fall, although contract negotiations with stars Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni had yet to be resolved.
Another fall debut is “Parenthood,” produced by Ron Howard and based on the 1989 movie he directed. The family drama, starring Peter Krause, Maura Tierney and Craig T. Nelson, will air 8 p.m. Wednesdays, with new hospital drama “Mercy” set to claim the slot midseason.
“The Biggest Loser” will air for two hours on Tuesday nights. It will lose a half-hour in the spring for NBC to premiere the comedy “100 Questions.”
NBC executives said they were “bullish” on Leno’s chances at 10 p.m., pointing to surveys showing that many viewers were starved for laughs at an hour usually filled by serious dramas on network TV.
Yet NBC isn’t predicting how Leno will do in the ratings, and is lowering expectations. “This is a marathon, not a sprint,” said Marc Graboff, NBC Entertainment co-chairman.
Most series are getting traditional full-season orders of about 22 episodes, but not all. That includes “Chuck” and some other post-Olympic entries, and shows that do better creatively with shorter runs, such as “Heroes,” said Angela Bromstad, prime-time entertainment president for the network.
“The Marriage Ref,” a new reality show produced by Jerry Seinfeld, and “Celebrity Apprentice” will be paired on Sunday after the Olympics.
“Friday Night Lights” will remain on the air, but won’t return until summer 2010, NBC said.
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All singing, all dancing: "Glee" debut; "Dancing" finale
It’s good, old fashioned hoofin’ and hollerin’ on television tonight.
Over on FOX, check out the debut of “Glee,” a rare one-hour comedy series from Ryan Murphy, the creator of “Nip/Tuck” and “Popular.” Tonight’s pilot episode is engaging, especially the snarky first half. Applying equal amounts of “Malcolm in the Middle,” “High School Musical” and “School of Rock,” “Glee” follows an idealistic teacher in his efforts to recruit popular, talented members to McKinley High’s show choir (currently populated by misfits and social outcasts) and regain the group’s former glory. The school’s principal has given him just two months to turn the program around.
Stereotypes abound … students include a conflicted athlete/singer and an arrogant ingenue (see “HSM”), the nerdy kid in the wheelchair (see “Malcolm”), a stutterer and a sassy, full-figured diva (see “School of Rock”).
The teaching staff borrows its own familiar cast of sitcom characters, featuring the gruff football coach, stern cheerleading taskmaster, overly-sensitive counselor and no-nonsense principal. Nothing particularly new here (well, the former glee club director does have a new career selling his extra medical marijuana), but the writing is sharp and the musical numbers are well-executed, if cheesy.
“Glee” works best when it focuses on the funny and romantic … the staff members, especially, are full of surprising quirks, and a budding romance between married club director Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison) and fellow teacher Emma Pillsbury (Jayma Mays, with impossibly big, brown eyes) is, so far, not acted upon and sweet.
Less successful are the overly-earnest “we can do it” and “be who you want to be” scenes, as well as the sticky subplot involving Will’s unhappy marriage. It remains to be seen where “Glee” will go after tonight’s set-up, but I’m hopeful Murphy and crew can keep the maudlin to a minimum. Like the McKinley’s principal, I am willing to give it a couple of months.
Over on ABC, “Dancing With The Stars” stages its Season 8 finale. Actor Gilles Marini and partner Cheryl Burke seem to be the odds-on favorite to take home the Mirrorball trophy, but popular opinion says the three finalist duos are as closely matched as any in the show’s history.
“Glee,” FOX, 8 p.m. “Dancing With The Stars,” ABC, 7 p.m.
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ABC's new season will feature Grammer, Cox
Here’s the report on ABC’s fall schedule announcement from the Associated Press
NEW YORK — ABC plans to launch a comedy night on Wednesdays this fall with familiar sitcom stars Kelsey Grammer, Courteney Cox, Patricia Heaton and Ed O’Neill in new series with roles suited to the times.
The network said it will have 11 new series next season. Under entertainment chief Stephen McPherson, ABC has been the most aggressive network in launching new series and will keep trying even though many new ones have failed in the past few months.
“We’ve got our work cut out for us, but innovative, different and compelling is going to be the key,” McPherson said Tuesday. ABC is the third most popular network behind CBS and Fox, and its viewership declined by 3 percent this season.
Sitcom mainstay Grammer leads “Hank,” playing a corporate titan who’s been laid off. Heaton, who co-starred with Grammer in a short-lived Fox comedy after her best-known role on “Everybody Loves Raymond” finished, plays the wife and mother of an Indiana family trying to survive tough times.
Former “Friends” star Cox is on the prowl in “Cougar Town,” playing a newly single woman learning the new rules of dating in a youth-obsessed culture.
Christina Applegate’s “Samantha Who?” is the highest-profile existing series to be canceled. For the second time in two incarnations, “Cupid” didn’t make it to a second season on ABC.
O’Neill, best known as the harried dad in Fox’s “Married… With Children,” takes on another TV family in “Modern Family.” In the style of “The Office,” this looks at a family from the perspective of an unseen documentarian.
Ubiquitous producer Mark Burnett will make his first series for ABC, “Shark Tank,” where budding entrepreneurs try to convince five millionaires to seed their business ideas.
The new dramas include “Eastwick,” an adaptation of the movie “The Witches of Eastwick”; “The Deep End,” which follows four young lawyers joining a cutthroat firm; “Flash Forward,” a sci-fi series where people black out and get a glimpse of their future; “The Forgotten,” a Jerry Bruckheimer procedural on trying to piece together the stories of missing persons; “Happy Town,” about a Minnesota town that was plagued by kidnappings; and “V,” a remake of a 1980s era miniseries about aliens confronting humans.
McPherson said NBC’s decision to run Jay Leno each weeknight at 9 p.m. gives his network and CBS an opportunity to make inroads with dramas.
“Scrubs” will return for a second season at ABC after departing NBC, although star Zach Braff’s full involvement is unclear. McPherson also said ABC would be very interested in picking up CBS’ “The New Adventures of Old Christine” if CBS doesn’t go forward with it.
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May 18, 2009
FOX fall schedule finds 'Terminator' terminated
Hasta la vista, baby. FOX has accomplished what Sarah and John Connor could not — eliminating a ‘Terminator,’ at least from network television.
The fate of the sci-fi series, which saw half of its viewers bail during the just-concluded second season, was the subject of intense “show-saving” Internet activity by its shrinking but passionate fan base, some expressing hope that the opportunity for cross-promotion with this summer’s big-screen “Terminator: Salvation” reboot would deliver salvation to the small-screen effort.
“Dollhouse,” another low-rated drama with a rabid fan base, will be back for a second season on Friday nights.
“Fringe,” the J.J. Abrams mind-bender with that shocking, alternate-universe season finale featuring a still-standing and fully-functional World Trade Center, gets a second season, moving to Thursdays and following “Bones” in an inspired pairing.
FOX plans to debut four new shows this fall, with an additional three to join mid-season:
“Glee” (premiering Tuesday after “American Idol” — watch for a preview in this space) is an hour-long comedy from the creator of “Nip/Tuck.” It focuses on an inept high school choir trying to regain its former glory. Look for lots of music and biting humor.
“Family Guy” spin-off “The Cleveland Show” follows Peter Griffin’s soft-spoken neighbor’s move to his Virginia hometown. Since the laconic Cleveland seems like the least-likely character to get his own show, this could be interesting.
“Brothers” is a half-hour sitcom starring “Fox NFL Sunday’s” Michael Strahan and Daryl “Chill” Mitchell. The series follows a post-career NFL phenom’s return home (yes, it sounds kind of like “The Cleveland Show;” no, he’s not also Peter Griffin’s neighbor).
Wanda Sykes’ new late-night vehicle (tentatively titled “The Wanda Sykes Show,”) sounds like a no-swear zone version of Bill Maher’s HBO gig: the star’s own comedic takes and panel discussions on current events.
Mid season dramas include: “Human Target” (based on a DC graphic novel) in which mysterious security contractor Christopher Chance immerses himself into imminently dangerous situations in order to save his clients; and “Past Life,” which pairs a believer and a skeptic in mystery-solving adventures based on the concept of reincarnation.
The FOX Network’s only new mid-season comedy is “Sons of Tucson,” a “Malcolm In The Middle”-esque series which finds three brothers recruiting a dad-for-hire con man to stand in for their real father, who has been sent to prison.
See FOX’s full primetime fall and mid-season schedules after the jump.
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May 5, 2009
CW dropping Sunday programming
The CW network will abandon Sunday programming this fall to focus on its more successful weeknight lineup.
Once the change takes effect, local affiliates will determine what airs on Sunday evenings. Eric Lassberg, general manager of Austin’s KNVA, anticipates going with hour-long dramas or a movie from 4 to 7 p.m. In the 7 to 9 p.m. timeslot, Austin’s CW station is eyeing a movie package from distributor MGM that features titles such as “Legally Blonde,” many of them broadcast in high-definition.
Sundays have been a problem area since The CW launched in 2006. Countless shows have come and gone without making much of an impact. The network started the 2008-09 season by leasing the night to an independent production company, according to The Associated Press, but has since resorted to running movies and reruns of shows once aired by other broadcasters, including “The Drew Carey Show” and “Jericho.”
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