TV Gal

Will Work for a Good Storyline

2009-11-20T17:52:39Z

I don't know how I feel about all the cast shenanigans on "House" this season. Many of us have known since the beginning of the season that Cameron would be leaving the show and that 13 and Taub would be back. So it made it a little difficult to get that into the whole Chase kills a malevolent dictator story line as it often seemed like a means to an end. Chase and Cameron spent much of the last two seasons waiting for a good story line to come their way. And when they did appear, however briefly, it often felt like an after thought to appease fans. A little morsel to tide us over. This season seemed forced. I never quite believed that Chase would kill a patient. And as heart breaking as Cameron's speech to House was at the end of the episode, I didn't think Cameron would give up on her marriage so easily even if she did think House had ruined Chase.

I've said this before but I wish the producers and the writers could have figured out a way to include all the characters in story lines equally. Chase and Cameron are good characters who deserve better. Here's who else I think is in need of a good story line.

Mike on "Desperate Housewives:" Yes "Desperate Housewives" has some big problems this season. Starting with the fact that I'm only mildly curious about who the strangler is and I know the show has "Housewives" in the title but the husbands are really suffering this season. I'm ready to let Orson go - he's kind of become this pathetic character that I simply can't muster up the energy to care about any more. Here's hoping he's one of the causalities in the big December 6 plane crash episode. However, I've always liked Mike. He's often the only voice of reason among the Wisteria Lane clan and when he's front and center in the mystery (like he was in the first season and last season), the show gives him a lot to do. But this season he's had nothing to do but react to Susan and Katherine's nonsense. He deserves more.

The parents on "90210:" See I kind of liked it that the show was hinting at the fact that Kelly might come between Harry and Debbie. But now they've been relegated to the Jim and Cindy role of merely reacting to their children's antics. Debbie tells off Dixon's suddenly psycho girlfriend. Harry tells Annie she can't date Jasper (by the way, my revelation this week is that Jasper is this version's Emily Valentine). I think teen soaps do much better when the adults have their own problems and issues. Plus I'd be happy if Kelly Taylor were in every episode.

Dell on "Private Practice:" Maybe it's because I'm loyal to Chris Lowell because he played Piz on "Veronica Mars," but I've really been missing Dell this season. He pops up only occasionally to deliver a baby or talk about his daughter but he hasn't really had a story line of his own. He's such a different character than the rest of cast and his presence gives the show more balance. Why can't he have an improbable romance like everyone else on the show?

Angela on "The Office:" Last year, she was in the middle of a very dysfunctional love triangle. But since both Dwight and Andy have broken up with her, one of the show's funniest characters hasn't had nearly enough to do.

Mercedes on "Glee:" As the season has progressed, the series has become less myopically focused on Quinn, Finn and Rachel. We've seen more of Kurt and of Artie. But except for knowing that Mercedes had a crush on Kurt, we haven't learned much about her. The show is too much potential to relegate Mercedes to a sassy stereotype.

What characters would you like to see have a better story line? Talk about it below.

Where Have I Seen Them Before?

Hallee Hirsh was the pregnant bride who had cheated on her husband on "Private Practice." She was Mark's daughter Rachel on "ER" and was seen very briefly as Hannah Vasquez on "90210." Gina Ravera, Detective Irene Daniels on "The Closer" and Pratt's girlfriend Bettina on "ER," was the woman both Pete and Sheldon met in a bar. Ever Carradine was the pregnant woman who had been in a car crash. We saw her last season as Erika on "24." Among her many TV roles, she was also Tiffany on "Once & Again," Heather on "Women's Murder Club," and Lexi on "Eureka." We also saw her last month as Julia on "Supernatural."

Francie Swift was the image consultant Peter hired on "The Good Wife." She's Nate's mom, Anne Archibald, on "Gossip Girl" and Arthur's wife Holly Frobisher on "Damages." Jill Flint appeared briefly as Kalinda's FBI friend. Flint is Jill Casey on "Royal Pains" and also Melissa, the woman Coop dated this season on "Nurse Jackie."

Diane recognized Caroline Lagerfelt as the Ojai board member Nora told off on "Brothers & Sisters." She's Serena's grandmother CeCe on "Gossip Girl" and Diane remembers that many years ago she played Spike's mother on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer."

Steve recognized Jolene Blalock as Lexa, the wife of the porn star on "House." Blalock was Sub-Commander T'Pol on "Enterprise."

Do we think that Sarah Drew is on some kind of mission to be on every TV show? Dennis and Michelle recognized her as Suzy Pepper, the high school student who used to have a crush on Will on "Glee." Drew has been seen as Dr. April Kepner on "Grey's Anatomy" (remember she was fired), Judy on "Private Practice" (the college student giving up her baby for adoption), Sal's wife Kitty Romano on "Mad Men," and Megan's best friend Caryn on "Privileged." And, of course, she was Hannah on "Everwood." It's now officially time for Drew to be placed in my "deserves her own show" file.

Dennis also recognized Charlotte Ross as Quinn's mom on "Glee." Ross was Connie on "NYPD Blue," Bree on "The 5 Mrs. Buchanans," and Lori on "Beggars and Choosers." But like me Dennis always remembers her as Eve on "Days of Our Lives."

Alan Ruck and Rachael Harris played Frank and Shanna on "Cougar Town." Ruck, who will always be Cameron from "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," is currently Dean Bowman on "Greek" and was Stuart on "Spin City." Harris was Blair on "In The Motherhood," Cooper on "Notes from the Underbelly," and Kevyn on "Fat Actress."

Sarah Wright was Claire the woman Lily tried to warn about Barney before she became a target of the Scuba Diver on "How I Met Your Mother." Wright was Jane on "7th Heaven." Annie recognized Eva Amurri as Shelly, the schoolteacher Lily wanted to set Ted up with. Amurri is Jackie on "Californication."

Quotes of the Week

"Mom it's a joke. I'm just playing along. I'm not gay." Justin to his mom on "Ugly Betty." I have to say I really like what the show is doing with this story line this season.

"Yeah, yeah selfish Gabby. Same old song. Join in if you know the words." Gabby to Lynette on "Desperate Housewives."

"Look how happy she is. It's a shame things are about to get so hard for her." One of the Observers about Olivia on "Fringe."

"You know, people think you are this weird robot man, and you totally are, then it is like that movie 'Wall-E' at the end. You are so full of love and help the fat people out of the floatie chairs!" Penny to Sheldon on "The Big Bang Theory." Thanks to Ryan for the quote.

"But we're a team. We could travel the world together. We could try out for the Amazing Race." Damon to Stefan on "Vampire Diaries." Thanks to Sandy for the quote.

"When I hired you to give this place a makeover I didn't mean smear it with lipstick and turn it into a five dollar hooker. This office pathetic." Amanda to Caleb on "Melrose Place." I don't know if "Melrose" can be saved but it was great to have Amanda delivering putdowns again.

"Mommy if that lady slept over at Mr. Ellis's house does that mean they're in love?" Travis to his mom about Grayson's one night stand on "Cougar Town."

That's all for today. I'm back on Monday to check in on some of my favorite new shows of the season -- "The Good Wife," "Cougar Town," "V" and "FlashForward" - and see how they're doing. Have a question? Seen a familiar face? Want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for discussion? Write me at mailto:amytvgal@zap2it.comor follow me on Twitter. Have a great weekend. Talk to you on Monday.

Most Improved Characters of the Season

2009-11-16T21:42:26Z

So here's my big announcement of the week. I think the big "CSI" trilogy worked.

I do like Dr. Ray Langston better now than I did two weeks ago.

Sure there were laughable moments. I couldn't stop giggling every time Horatio called him "Dr. Ray." I don't know how David Caruso can make saying someone's name melodramatic but he did. And it was kind of preposterous that Ray would be able to tell these other CSI teams things they didn't already know. But the episodes gave viewers much more insight into Ray's character. He was committed to finding out what happened to the missing girl and getting an answer for her mother. The trilogy made him more human and less stiff. Do I think he's a great character? No but I do think he's on the road to improvement. Do I think "CSI" will ever go back to being the show it was when Gil Grissom was on? I'm not sure but I think that's much more of a possibility now than it was last season.

So I started thinking. What other characters are better off this season than they were last season?

Matt on "Ugly Betty:" Many of you have written me that you think Matt is better off this season because of his snazzy new haircut. And I definitely subscribe to the theory that as the hair goes, so goes the character. But I think it's more than Matt's coifed locks that have improved him this season. I actually always liked Matt - unlike Henry, he didn't have a pregnant ex-girlfriend he left Betty for and he made for a good love triangle when Henry made his way back onto the scene. But last season he was a bit of a doorMatt (sorry I couldn't resist). He was like a little puppy dog around Betty. This season he has much more of a personality, a personality independent of Betty. That's due to his new job and his outright anger at Betty. I kind of liked it when he was so furious with Betty. Plus I enjoyed that he was totally clueless that Amanda was smitten with him. There is much more to do with him this season to make him his own, independent, interesting, character.

Leslie on "Parks & Recreation:" As I stated at the beginning of the season, Amy Poehler's Leslie Knope went from being a goofy, awkward one-dimensional character this season to a complete character. And with each episode, she gets better and better. Sure Leslie is still goofy and awkward but thanks to Poehler's nuanced performance Leslie is optimistic but not an idiot. She actually might be good at her job. I like that she has a boyfriend this season. I like that her friendship with Ann has continued to blossom and I like that she got that darn pit filled. It also helps that the show has become much more funny. The Halloween episode that had Leslie facing off against her teenage nemesis was definitely a highlight.

Meredith on "Grey's Anatomy:" I know last week I said I didn't miss Meredith. And I haven't. It actually served the show quite well to give viewers Meredith in smaller doses. This season Meredith is more happy, more confident, and less annoying. I actually remember why we all wanted Meredith and Derek together in the first place. Having Meredith and her story line take a backseat to the other characters, allowed current characters to get more quality time (some good stuff with the Chief last week) and also allowed the show to introduce new characters (let's hope Kim Raver's cardiologist sticks around for awhile. I'm all in for a Cristina/Owen/Teddy love triangle). And while I haven't enjoyed every episode, I've appreciated that the show has played with its format this season. I'm ready to root for Meredith again. Are you?

But while some characters have improved, others are still really struggling:

Ryan on "Brothers & Sisters:" The main problem with Ryan isn't that he's out to ruin the Walker family business, it's that he only appears on the screen when he's behaving badly. He currently has no role on the series but to play the villain. He might as well twirl his moustache when he says his lines. And it's ridiculous to think that he would have been brought into the company's inner sanctum so quickly. The man looks squirrelly. But maybe no one is suspicious of him because they never see him. I have to think the series is regretting the whole story line, which only existed to de-Walker Rebecca and allow her romance with Justin. I want the Walkers to figure out what Ryan is up to soon and send him packing.

Annie on "90210:" Alas, poor Annie. Not only have her friends ostracized her this season but the show has as well abandoning her in a romance with a drug dealer. The drug dealer who happens to be the nephew of the man she hit with her car (will the show ever close the loop on that story line?) The story hasn't made Annie any less grating, but it has made her more stupid and petulant. In my opinion, she's gone from bad to worse this season.

Who are the characters you think are most improved this season? Who still needs improvement? Talk about it below.

All times listed are Eastern Standard Time for November 16-22

Tricia Helfer is the first "Battlestar Galactica" alum to guest on a CBS comedy this month. She'll play a friend of Chelsea's on "Two and a Half Men" (Monday, CBS, 9 p.m.). Next week Katee Sackhoff stops by "The Big Bang Theory."

I'm working on managing my expectations of Heather Locklear reprising her role of Amanda Woodward on "Melrose Place" (Tuesday, CW, 9 p.m.). I'm so excited because Locklear created one of my all time favorite television characters and I'm psyched to see Amanda again (inquiring minds want to know - did she leave Peter on the island?) But, except for Michael, the series has blundered the return of other former "Melrose Place" residents and I don't want them to ruin Amanda. I have great faith in Locklear, but I'm concerned. How about you?

The biggest casualty of everything worth watching airing on Thursday night has been "Fringe." I so wish FOX would move the show back to where it was last season because then everyone would get to see this week's terrific episode (Thursday, FOX, 9 p.m.). I don't want to say too much but it's a very revealing episode where we learn more about the mysterious Observer and the role they play in the show's mythology. We also gain more insight into Walter and the love he has for his son. The hour has everything you want in a science fiction series - good characters, humorous moments, creepy moments and an ending that will leave you wanting more. After you've watched this week's episode of "Fringe," let me know what you think.

Even though this season has been so boring, I do think Althea, Irina and Carol Hannah were probably the best three to make it to Bryant Park (although I couldn't help rooting for underdog Christopher) but I still can't abide Irina's attitude. Although I do appreciate they're all nice to Tim Gunn. I still haven't recovered from Kenley being so rude to him last season. Who are you rooting for to win "Project Runway" (Thursday, Lifetime, 10 p.m.) And raise your hand if you are so happy that the show is heading back to New York next season.

November sweeps is always a good time for family to stop by. Ralph Waite, best known as the patriarch on "The Waltons," is Booth's grandfather on "Bones" (Thursday, FOX, 8 p.m.). Frankie Faison is Dr. Bailey's dad on "Grey's Anatomy" and Stephen Collins (Reverend Camden to you and me) is Addison's father on "Private Practice" (Thursday, ABC, 10 p.m.).

That's all for today. I'm back on Friday to talk about characters most in need of a good story line, what's happening on "FlashForward," quotes of the week, familiar faces and more . Have a question? Seen a familiar face? Want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for discussion? Write me at amytvgal@zap2it.com or follow me on Twitter. Have a great week. Talk to you on Friday

Rick Castle, the most charming man in prime time

2009-11-13T21:28:15Z

Sawyer. Tim Riggins. Don Draper.

You all had some great guesses about who I would pick as the most charming character currently on TV. But I would still watch "Lost," if Sawyer wasn't there to give everyone a nickname. And my TiVo would still be religiously devoted to "Friday Night Lights," even if Tim Riggins wasn't there to oh-so-sexily tuck his hair behind his ears. I would still sing the praises of "Mad Men" even if Don Draper wasn't around to hit on every woman who crossed his path.

But I'm telling you right now I would drop "Castle" like a hot remote if Rick Castle weren't on the show. He is the only reason I tune in each week. The rest of the characters, while basically fine actors, merely dance around him. It's the perfect role for Nathan Fillion. He's charming without being smug andable to completely sell both his ongoing flirtatious banter with Beckett and his devotion to his daughter. The man totally makes me believe that a fiction writer would a) be allowed to work every case with the police force; b) be allowed to continued given his ongoing shenanigans; and c)actually solve the crimes. Comparisons could be made between Rick Castle and Patrick Jane on "The Mentalist" but I think Jane, while charming can be a little too pleased with himself and his cleverness. Castle never loses his devil-may-care, aren't-we-all having fun charm.

So he's my pick for the most charming character currently on television. What's yours?

"The Prisoner"

Let me start off by saying I was on a total AMC high this week.

The third season finale of "Mad Men" was absolutely stellar. Don, Roger, Bert and even Lane forming their own firm made total sense (it's a plot line that's been brewing since the season two finale) but also came as a perfect surprise. I was tense and nervous throughout the episode and actually found myself chanting "Joan, Joan, Joan" when Roger said he was going to make a phone call. I loved seeing who they brought with them and who they left behind. My only complaint is that they didn't call Salvatore Romano to be part of their new company. I can only hope they'll realize they need him next season. It's the best cliffhanger any show has had in a long time.

So I approached "The Prisoner," the three night, six hour mini-series premiering Sunday at 8 p.m. on AMC full of excitement. Jim Caviezel stars as Six in this remake of the 1967 series. After quitting his job, Six inexplicably wakes up in The Village, an idyllic community where there is no escape. People he doesn't know claim to be his family. Cabs go nowhere and a mysterious leader known as Two (Ian McKellan) continually plays mind games with him.

I regret to inform you that I could only make it through the first three hours before I had one of those "life is too short to watch this" moments. First of all, "The Prisoner" is confusing. Not confusing like "Lost" or "FlashForward," confusing like there is no real linear story happening anywhere. It's just one big mash up of flashbacks, hallucinations and present day mischief. But worst than that, "The Prisoner" is boring, boring, boring. I give AMC credit for taking on such an ambitious project but I can't give "The Prisoner" more than two and a half stars. If you watch the show, let me know what you think.

Where Have I Seen Them Before?

Every so often I have what I like to call a familiar face epiphany. I had one last night and thought I must share this with you all. Somehow I had totally missed that Alison Brie, Annie on "Community," is also Trudy Campbell on "Mad Men."

Catherine recognized Erica Gimpel as the mom of the little boy who died on "Grey's Anatomy" last week. Gimpel was Wallace's mom on "Veronica Mars," the social worker Adele on "ER," and I'll always remember her as Coco on "Fame."

Kim recognized Matthew Davis as the new teacher Mr. Saltzman on "The Vampire Diaries." He played Adam on "What About Brian" and Warner on "Legally Blonde."

George Newbern was the oncologist who asked Addison out on "Private Practice." Among his many TV roles, Newbern was Owen on "Providence." But I always think of him as the groom-to-be in "Father of the Bride" and Julia's son, Payne, on "Designing Women." Rosalind Chao was Addison's patient who gave Addison her cat. She was the principal, Dr. Kim, on "The O.C."

Cree recognized Lindy Booth as Amanda Barrow on "NCIS." She was the Pizza Girl on "October Road" and we saw her last summer as A.J. on "The Philanthropist."

Rebecca caught Mark Moses, Duck on "Mad Men," as Blake Wellesley on "Castle." Moses was also Paul Young on "Desperate Housewives." Gregg Henry was his brother Winston Wellesley on "Castle." Henry was Hugh on "The Riches," Logan's dad, Mitchum Huntzberger, on "Gilmore Girls," and we will see him next week as Quinn's dad on "Glee." Hattie Winston, Margaret on "Becker," was the aunt who had sent her nephew's package by messenger service on "Castle."

Cheyenne Jackson is the new cast member on "30 Rock." We saw him last season as the rock star Sebastian Grace on "Life on Mars" and he's currently starring in "Finian's Rainbow" on Broadway.

Marcus Giamatti was the comic book writer the teenage patient idolized on "House." He was Peter on "Judging Amy." Eric Lutes was the father of the sick girl. Lutes was Del on "Caroline in the City" and the dad in the Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen series "So Little Time."

Ryan recognized Penny Johnson Jerald as Joanne Torrence on "NCIS." Jerald was Sherry Palmer on "24" and Dean Etwood on "October Road."

Quotes of the Week

"I know everything about this town and about these murals and that's why this is a dream come true - literally. I have had a dream where I design a mural. But then it turned into a nightmare because the mural started talking and it came alive and it was whispering and I couldn't hear what it was saying so I leaned in close and then it ate me. At one point Gina Gershon was there." Leslie on "Parks and Recreation." Thanks to Michelle for the quote.

"I love you more than I love being a star." Kurt to his dad when explaining why he threw the "Diva-Off" on "Glee." Thanks to Joe for the quote.

" Good Morning. Sterling, Cooper, Draper and Pryce. How may I help you?" Joan answering the phone on "Mad Men." Thanks to Wendy for the quote.

"I feel about as useless as a mom's college degree." Kenneth on "30 Rock."

"If I'm dead, I want you to honor my memory by taking my memory to the Hamptons and recreating 'Weekend at Bernies.'" Barney in a video to Ted on "How I Met Your Mother."

"I hope you get what you always wanted." Don to Betty on "Mad Men."

Exchanges of the Week

"Peggy, can you get me some coffee?" Roger to Peggy on "Mad Men."

"No." Peggy's response. Thanks to Wendy and Liz for the exchange.

*****************

"Are you two together?" Suspect to Castle and Beckett on "Castle."

"Definitely not." Beckett's response.

"Not yet." Castle's response.

That's all for today. I'm back on Monday to talk about the season finale of "Project Runway," Heather Locklear's return to "Melrose Place," "FlashForward," "Fringe" and more. Have a question? Seen a familiar face? Want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for discussion? Write me at mailto:amytvgal@zap2it.comor follow me on Twitter. Have a great weekend. Talk to you on Monday.

Let's all 'Gleek' out!

2009-11-09T21:58:31Z

Full confession - I think most of you know that I'm a Red Sox fan. So once the Sox are out of the baseball playoffs, the games going from nail-biting excitement to a sports event that gets in the way of my TV viewing.

Thankfully the pesky World Series is out of the way and FOX returns to its regular TV schedule this week. So let's talk about "Glee," which returns this Wednesday at 9 p.m. with a fantastic episode entitled "Wheels."

First of all, let me admit that I was wrong. I was so concerned that the show had suffered from over exposure after only one episode. Back in August, I fretted that "Glee" was receiving too much attention, too soon and there would be some sort of universal "Glee" backash.

But there was nothing to worry about. Everyone, it seems, appears to be gleeking out. There's the cast on the cover of Entertainment Weekly, singing at the World Series, and releasing an album I can't wait to listen to. It seems instead of being tired of them, we can't get enough of them.

And I thought this week's episode was one of the best of the season. Here's why:

1.There's no sign of Terri who I believe has become an unsalvageable character. Her fake pregnancy that Will STILL hasn't caught on to completely drags down the show. But her other story lines have been just as tedious. I'm all for the willing suspension of disbelief but when Terri was hired as the school nurse that just makes the entire world of "Glee" completely preposterous. Obviously you need medical qualifications to be a school nurse, no matter how inept your principal is. Also the story line managed to make Will even more of a doormat - you think he would be a little more upset that his wife had drugged his students.

2.There's no sign of the Emma and the coach story line. Emma pining for Will, I don't mind. Will not coming to terms with his true feeling for Emma, well that's good too. Actually I really like the Emma character. But Emma dating and getting engaged to man she doesn't even want to touch her just makes Emma a silly, pathetic character. I don't know about you, but I don't like pitying TV characters.

3.We get to see a softer side of Sue. It's a little cliched but I think it's important for the show to begin to flesh out her character. Sure her one liners are fantastic and no one can deliver a biting quip like Jane Lynch. But if the writers don't give more depth to her character, she'll quickly become one of those "a little of her goes a long way" characters. Actually, Sue may already be in that category for many of you.

4.Mike O'Malley is back as Kurt's dad. It's a great role for O'Malley, who has really grown as an actor, and I love the relationship between Kurt and his dad. If you don't have a tear in your eye in the final scene between Kurt and his dad this week, you're a stronger person that I am.

5. Kurt and Artie both take center stage in tonight's episode. The show will be better served the more it uses its ensemble cast. It's fantastic listening to Kurt (Chris Colfer) and Rachel (Lea Michele) singing "Defying Gravity" from "Wicked." And it's even more delightful to see Artie (Kevin McHale) have a solo number and gain more insight into his character.

Sure the show still has issues - Will and the Glee Club seem to be on pretty much the same story cycle every week. Will does something wrong, the Glee Club is mad at him or members of the Glee club are mad at him, Will realizes the errors of his ways and all is fine by the end of the hour. And I know it's the singing and the dancing and not the plots that keep me coming back each week, but I still applaud the show for being different than anything else on TV and always bringing a smile to my face.

Are you excited "Glee" is back this week? How do you think the season is going? Talk about it below.

Highlights of the Week Ahead

All times listed are Eastern Standard Time for November 9-15

"House" is also back this week (Monday at 8 p.m. on FOX). I don't know about you but I find the show to be so unsettling these days. I wish the writers could find a way to have all the characters part of every episodes. I'm glad for Cameron and Chase to be back on the show but I don't know why that means I don't get to see Taub any more (who, by the way, is still considered a series regular). The only one who has survived all this rigmarole unscathed is Foreman. I'm hoping the show settles down soon. This week, House, Cuddy, and Wilson attend a medical conference while the team tries to diagnose a girl who becomes ill after a night of partying.

Now I don't want you to be frightened but (long dramatic pause while I take off my sunglasses and stare intently at you) I am going to watch "CSI: Miami" this week (Monday, CBS, 10 p.m.). Laurence Fishburne is travelling to all three "CSI" shows this week and I don't know if this will endear him more to me but I'm willing to give it a chance.

You probably remember that Callen (Chris O'Donnell) was shot last season on the special episodes of "NCIS" that introduced the cast of "NCIS: Los Angeles?" We'll find out more about that in this week's episode of "NCIS: Los Angeles" (Tuesday, CBS, 9 p.m.).

Here's a fun game to play. Who do you think is the most funny cast member on "Modern Family?" As you know, I was first voting for Ty Burrell's Phil but now I may have to go with Eric Stonestreet's Cameron who is terrific with both the goofy parts of his role and acting like his partner's family is completely nuts. Who's your pick for the best character on "Modern Family?" Ponder that question while all the ABC comedies sit out this week so ABC can air the "CMA Awards" at 8 p.m. on Wednesday.

If you thought last week's episode of "Supernatural" (Thursday, CW, 9 p.m.) was tongue-in-cheek, wait until you see this week's episode which has the brothers attending a "Supernatural" convention and running into fans who dress up just like them.

There's a lot happening on "Grey's Anatomy" (Thursday, ABC, 9 p.m.) this week. Kim Raver begins her guest star stint as cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Teddy Altman, Loretta Devine is back as the Chief's wife and Izzie is back at Seattle Grace. I have to say I haven't really missed Izzie or Meredith, have you?

Adam Rodriguez begins his guest star stint as Justin's teacher and Betty's former crush on "Ugly Betty" (Friday, ABC, 9 p.m.). It's too bad that so many people aren't watching "Ugly Betty" because the show is having a very entertaining season. The series was wise to put Betty in completely new circumstances at work and I'm liking her (non)romance with Matt more now than I did last season. Sure I could do without the Daniel joins a cult sub-plot or Wilhemenia being swindled by her daughter, but over all I'm enjoying the season.

I'm so happy Jon Tenney is on "Brothers & Sisters" (Sunday, ABC, 10 p.m.). As much as I love him as Fritz on "The Closer," I do think he's seriously underused on that show. So I'm glad he's using his down time to sweep Nora off her feet.

That's all for today. Sorry this was so late going up, I was in a fight with my Internet connection all day. I'm back on Friday to talk about the new AMC miniseries "The Prisoner" and launch a debate about who is the most charming character currently on TV (can you guess who I vote for?). Have a question, seen a familiar face, want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for discussion? Write me at mailto:amytvgal@zap2it.comor follow me on Twitter. Have a great week. Talk to you on Friday.

Season finale of 'Mad Men'

2009-11-06T22:09:35Z

You have to laugh at AMC's official description of Sunday's season finale of "Mad Men."

"Don has an important meeting with Connie. Betty receives some advice. Pete talks to his clients."

I'm all for keeping important plot twists and turns under wraps, but could they be any more vague? It's like a haiku about the finale. It would definitely be a fun game to come up with three sentence synopsis of all the episodes of "Mad Men." A description of the episode "The Gypsy and the Hobo" from two weeks ago could be - "Betty talks to Don. Joan calls Roger. Sally goes trick or treating."

I have loved this season of "Mad Men." What I've particularly appreciated is that the show has advanced some key plot points at precisely the right time. I didn't feel like they were rushing the plot nor did I feel like they had waited too long. Since the show began, the one of the key questions has been "When will Betty learn the truth about Don?" I loved that it happened before I was expecting it. I was surprised as Betty was when she opened Don's desk drawer. I feel like Don coming clean about his past made him realize in a way he hasn't before how much he values his family and the life that he has built for himself. I'm also hoping this revelation will put an end to the endless cycle of women who come in and out of Don's life. His track record of extra-marital affairs was getting a little tedious. Yes he's charismatic and good-looking but there has to be a woman out there who could resist his charm.

And I have to confess I was surprised that the show decided to directly deal with the assassination of President Kennedy. In a way, how could they not since it was the defining event of the early 60's and changed our nation forever. In another way, it's challenging to address an event this huge and not make it a clichÃ©. I think "Mad Men" avoided the clichÃ© pratfalls by showing the minutiae of how people were affected. By a wedding that only half the invited guest attended, by an ad men worried about how many of his TV ads wouldn't air, by a maid and her employer grieving about the same thing. I thought it was a stunning episode.

I'm not sure what will happen Sunday night. I hope, no I demand, that we see Joan and Salvatore but other than that, I'm happy to sit back and watch the magic of the show unfold. Are you excited for the third season finale of "Mad Men?" Talk about it below.

Talk to me about "V"

Sometimes we are totally in sync. You like what I like. I like what you like. Our season pass managers match up and our DVRs record in a harmonious fashion. We think each others' unspoken TV thoughts.

And I honestly thought "V" was going to be one of those times. But by Wednesday afternoon, I had received emails and Twitter messages riddled with words like "clichÃ©d," "predictable," and "boring." And I'm trying to figure out what happened. Was I so high on "V" because I first watched the show when I was making my way through all the pilots this summer. I mean when you're watching shows like "Mercy" and "Accidentally on Purpose," all shows are kind of graded on a curve.

But I don't think that's it. "V" totally held up during my second viewing of it last week. I can't wait to see next week's episode. So talk to me some more about what you liked or didn't like about the premiere. Will you be tuning in next week?

Where Have I Seen Them Before?

Jeanine recognized Tracy Middendorf as Gaynor Rabin on "Bones." I'll pull Middendorf out of my "deserves her own show" file to tell you that we just saw her on "CSI" as the supervisor who was having an affair with the victim of the week. She was also Bonnie on "Lost," Carla Matheson on "24," and Jeanine and many others always think of her as the woman Angel couldn't save in the series premiere of "Angel."

This one was driving me crazy all through the episode. Michael McMillian was the man who had killed the architect on "The Mentalist" last week. He was Henry on "What I Like About You" and we saw him this season as Steve on "True Blood."

Dylan Baker is the leader of the Phoenix group on "Ugly Betty." We saw him over the summer as William on "Kings." He was also John on "Drive" and Roger on "The Book of Daniel."

Faran Tahir was the patient with the spinal tumor that Derek operated on on "Grey's Anatomy." He was Captain Robau on the "Star Trek" movie over the summer.

Anne Ramsay was the wife of the music producer on "Castle." We saw Ramsay over the summer as Dr. Brenda Marshall on "HawthoRNe." Among her many TV roles, I always think of Ramsay as Lisa, Jamie's sister on "Mad About You."

Emily Bergl was the lawyer Bree on "The Good Wife." She's Sammy's wife Tammy on "Southland" and Annie on "Men in Trees." I always think of her as Rory's frenemy Francie on "Gilmore Girls." Nestor Serrano was the detective who arrested the wrong man on "The Good Wife." He was Navi Araz on the fourth season of "24."

Robin recognized Michael Learned, Olivia Walton on "The Waltons," as Louis Patterson on "Cold Case." We also saw her last season as Mrs. Wilk on "Scrubs."

Joey recognized Amy Davidson as Dana on "Ghost Whisperer." She was Kerry on "8 Simple Rules"

Francesca recognized Natalie Morales, Wendy on the dear departed "The Middleman," as Agent Lauren Cruz on "White Collar."

Quotes of the Week

"Calm Down? I'm wearing sunglasses at night. You know who does that? No talented douche bags. I hate this game. I hate that we're in a procedural cop show. And you wanna know why? Because I hate procedural cop shows. There's like 300 of them on television and they're all the freaking same." Dean to Sam when they get stuck in a "CSI: Miami" type show on "Supernatural." Thanks to Sandy for the quote. Hmmm . . . how do you think the writers really feel about their competition?

"Oh I'm sorry I couldn't hear you over your loud shirt." Betty to Marc on "Ugly Betty."

"Oh my God. A bubble bath? This is now a bad Jackie Collins movie." Susan to Katherine on "Desperate Housewives."

"I don't think we've had a dinner like that since the last time you were here." Kitty to Tommy on "Brothers & Sisters." Um, Kitty I don't know what show you think you're on but you all have a dinner like that every Sunday.

"I don't have bed bugs Kenneth, I went to Princeton." Jack to Kenneth on "30 Rock."

"They're not running the one where everyone gets trapped in the mall are they?" Joe to Bridgette after she tells him they are running a zombie movie marathon on TV on "Medium." Thanks to Russ for the quote. Russ remembered that Jake Weber, who plays Joe, was one of the stars of the 2004 remake of "Dawn of the Dead" which mostly plays out in a shopping mall.

That's all for today. I'm back on Monday to talk about the return of "House" and "Glee," (hooray!), the new AMC miniseries "The Prisoner," and launch a debate about who is the most charming character currently on TV. Have a question, seen a familiar face, want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for discussion? Write me at mailto:amytvgal@zap2it.com or follow me on Twitter. Have a great weekend. Talk to you on Monday.

'The Vampire Diaries' takes a bite out of my expectations

2009-11-02T20:39:44Z

I think you know my television pet peeve is when I'm able to play predict-a-plot.

You know when ten minutes into a crime drama, you say "that's the killer" and you turn out to be right. Or to pick a very current example, you think you already knew what was up with the new neighbors on "Desperate Housewives" by the second episode.

That's one of the reasons I was so absolutely delighted with last week's episode of "The Vampire Diaries" (Thursday, CW, 8 p.m.). The show continues to defy my expectations and ruin my game of predict-a-plot. First they had Elena find out that Stefan and Damon were vampires. That's something that could have dragged on for seasons and would have become increasingly annoying. It's hard to root for the heroine when you think she's too dumb to even know that her boyfriend is one of the undead when the clues are all around her. But the series quickly let Elena in on the big secret.

Then the show turned Vicki into a vampire. Instead of continually threatening that one of the characters could become a vampire, they allowed it to happen. And THEN the show did the unthinkable, they killed Vicki off. I watched the whole episode assuming that somehow Stefan would prevail and that Vicki would remain a volatile threat. I never thought Stefan would kill her. I was shocked. SHOCKED. And, let me tell you, that doesn't happen that often. When you're in the opening credits and still not safe, that's a good show because viewers are never going to know what to expect. It's the same technique employed by "Lost" and "24." (And, by the way, I still think Vicki could come back. The show has me thinking that absolutely anything could happen.)

"Vampire Diaries" is managing to advance its plot without feeling like its racing through story lines. It's turning out to be a better show than I originally thought it was going to be. My only caution is that the series can only use the mind erase thingy so many times. It made sense to use it on Jeremy but I wouldn't make it a habit. This week, Stefan's old girlfriend Lexi (Arielle Kebble) visits while Elena deals with all that has happened.

What do you think of "The Vampire Diaries?" Talk about it below.

Two Reasons Why This is Going to Be a Good Week

TNT picked up "Southland:" Beginning January 12 at 10 p.m., the network will air the first seven episodes of the first season and the six episodes that were filmed for this season but never aired because NBC cancelled the show before it premiered.

Gregory Itzin is returning to "24:" Charles Logan, one of the best villains "24" ever created, will be back for the eighth longest day of Jack Bauer's life. You'll recall that we haven't seen him since his wife Martha (Jean Smart) stabbed him and he was rushed off via ambulance. Apparently he survived and President Taylor (Cherry Jones) needs his help. Now we just have to get the show to bring back Jean Smart. I need to know that the former First Lady and Aaron are happy somewhere. Also, if the show could be a love and somehow bring back Dina Araz, my most favorite "24" character ever, I'd really appreciate it.

Highlights of the Week Ahead

All times listed are Eastern Standard Time for November 2-8

Barney and Robin have their first big fight on "How I Met Your Mother" (Monday, CBS, 8 p.m.) I have to admit that as much as I thought it was a good idea creatively for the show to run with the Robin and Barney romance, it hasn't quite worked out the way I had hoped. Mostly because everybody has behaved differently since the duo got together. Marshall and Lily are awkward and act like they haven't been friends with Barney and Robin for years, Ted often seems to forget he also dated Robin and Barney has lost much of what made him Barney. November sweeps usually means couples are getting together or coming apart. And I'm actually rooting for Robin and Barney to break up - perhaps that will get the series back on track.

Between mid-season finales, season finales, winter finales, summer finales and all the other terms networks have made up for when they don't have any more new episodes to offer us, it gets a little confusing. What I can tell you is that after tonight, "Greek" (Monday, ABC Family, 9 p.m.) won't be back with new episodes until next year. I was actually surprised to hear from so many of you who don't want Cappie and Casey together. Maybe it's because Cappie is one of my favorite TV characters or maybe it's because I'm a sucker for a TV bad boy who just wants to do right by the woman he loves, but I thought the final scene of last week's episode was fantastic. (Granted Cappie is more of a goofball than a bad boy, but in the "Greek" world, I think he qualifies as a bad boy). In tonight's "finale," ZBZ wants to win the Songfest competition. Thankfully Oleysa Rulin of "High School Musical" is suddenly a ZBZ pledge who can help. Also look for trouble in Cappie and Evan's newly renewed friendship.

Is it just me or has "Gossip Girl" (Monday, CW, 8 p.m.) become exceedingly tedious? Didn't we already have the story line where Jenny became a queen bee bitch? How many times can the show repeat the same Little J story line? Don't Blair and Serena end their friendship every other week? And why does Serena whine everything she says? The series is turning into a daytime soap opera. You can skip months at a time, tune in and the characters are pretty much where you left them. The show is losing me and fast. This week Olivia (Hilary duff) says something she regrets during her appearance on Jimmy Fallon's show.

Just a reminder to not miss the season premiere of "V" on Tuesday at 8 p.m. on ABC. If you missed my review in Friday's column, click here. Also let's try not to panic that ABC is only going to air four episodes before yanking the show off the schedule because of the Winter Olympics. Sure it doesn't seem like the best scheduling decision ever to come down the ski slope, but let's not blame the show for its network's foibles.

I don't think I made a fearless prediction about this but I totally would have bet on "Trauma" being picked up for the full season and "Mercy" being cancelled. They both aren't great shows (I remain thisclose to breaking up with NBC) but I did think "Trauma" was the (slightly) better show. But it's "Trauma" that won't be back after its initial 13 episode run and "Mercy" that's been picked up for the full season. So I may tune into "Mercy" (Wednesday, NBC, 8 p.m.) this week if only for the guest stars. Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara (Ben Stiller's parents) guest star as does Elisabeth Moss, Peggy on "Mad Men." Hey, at least this gets Peggy away from Duck.

Alex Kingston returns to "FlashForward" as a MI6 agent Fiona Banks. She'll help Mark, Demetri and Gough research the Blue Hand club that we learned about last week. Very excited to have Dominic Monaghan on the cast even if it is taking me awhile to adjust to the idea of Charlie as a bad guy. My friend and are trying to come up with theories about why Olivia and Lloyd are together in their flashforward beside the obvious explanation that they are, in fact, having an affair. My friend thinks that maybe Olivia is just trying to get information out of Lloyd since he's obviously connected to what happened and that she's using the fact that Lloyd thinks they have an affair to her advantage. I'm not sure I'm totally on board with that theory but I'm hoping that it's more than just a plain old affair. How about you?

Megan Mullally guest stars as Ron's ex-wife on "Parks & Recreation" (Thursday, NBC, 8:30 p.m.). And from my "how did I not know this" file, did you know that Mullally is married to Nick Offerman, who plays Ron on the series? I had no idea. Unlike "Community," I think "Parks & Recreation" gets better and better each week. Louis C.K. is the perfect straight man to Leslie's antics, the friendship between Leslie and Anne is believable and Andy has really blossomed into a great part of the show (no surprise, we all know how good Chris Pratt was on "Everwood").

Jane ends up in prison on "The Mentalist" (Thursday, CBS, 10 p.m.) But that's not the really big news, the big news is that the show put Rigsby and Van Pelt together (another thing I didn't expect to happen so soon). I liked that the show didn't drag out their romance for too long and that Rigsby told her exactly how he felt. I think shows are really starting to veer away from the endless "will they or won't they" teasing of viewers and that's a good thing.

So here's my problem with "Project Runway" (Thursday, Bravo, 10 p.m.). I really do think Irina has the best designs but she's just so nasty about her talent. I mean she's not Kenley but she's still not that pleasant to watch. Therefore I think I'm going to have to go ahead and root for Althea, whose designs I also like and appears to be much nicer. And I don't think she stole Irina's ideas, do you?

That's all for today. I'm back on Friday to talk about the season finale of "Mad Men" (love the dovetail between the defining event of 1963 and the possible end of Don's marriage), quotes of the week, familiar faces and more. Have a question, seen a familiar face, want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for discussion? Write me at mailto:amytvgal@zap2it.com or follow me on Twitter. Have a great week. Talk to you on Friday.

They're here! 'V' premieres on ABC

2009-10-30T20:45:15Z

If I were ABC, I would be very worried that other networks would be plotting to steal my development executives away. I know we have had our issues with the network in the past (see the cancellation of "Eli Stone," "Samantha Who?," and "Life on Mars") but you have to admit they've been on a creative roll this season.

Three funny comedies ("Modern Family," "The Middle," and "Cougar Town"), one extremely compelling drama ("FlashForward") and now "V," which premieres next Tuesday at 8 p.m.

Morena Baccarin stars as Anna, the leader of the aliens, known as the Vistors in this remake of the 1983 miniseries. (By the way, I never saw the original. The show was definitely on Mr. and Mrs. Amatangelo's "not for children" list.) It's the perfect part for Baccarin, who most of us know for playing Inara on "Firefly" and "Serenity." She's simultaneously ethereal and sinister. With her pixy face, benevolent smile and cropped haircut, it's easy to understand why humans are so ready to accept that Anna and her people have come to earth with noble, good intentions.

Of course, if that were true, the show would be over in five minutes (hooray, we're all happy. Aliens are awesome. The end!) Enter Elizabeth Mitchell as FBI Counter Terorist Agent Erica Evans, who isn't exactly ready to start drinking the Kool-Aid. As anyone who watches "Lost" knows, Mitchell is able to express so much without any words. You'll immediately root for her as a mom trying to protect her teenage son and a FBI agent trying to protect her country. And while I believe I'm predisposed to like Scott Wolf in anything he's in, playing an ambitious news anchor is a great role for someone with his innate charm and (still) boyish good looks. Morris Chestnut is equally equally as a man about to propose to his girlfriend before the Vistors arrive.

Without being preachy, the series is able to make the show both current and relevant. There's an undercurrent of compelling social commentary that adds an extra layer to the viewing. So all the right ingredients are here to make a good show but that wouldn't mean anything if the plot wasn't captivating. And it is and there are too many good surprises in Tuesday's pilot for me to even hint at them here. All I can tell you is to watch and we shall talk more after you've seen the show. Four out of five stars.

November sweeps

Let's talk about two of the major events coming to a TV set near you in the next couple of weeks:

Heather Locklear returns to "Melrose Place" on November 17: I keep trying to tell myself that the original "Melrose" was not a good show before Amanda hit the scene and that she could have the same magical effect on this new version. And I do think Heather Locklear is that good, but the current "Melrose Place" seems to be in some sort of free fall creatively. I've said from the beginning that it was a huge mistake to have killed of Sydney in the pilot. After Amanda, she's the absolute best character the original series had. Think of how much fun the show would be now if she were still alive and not seen only through hazy flashbacks. And the show has really not done a good job of re-introducing other former characters. I didn't even understand the point of the Jo story line. It was such a waste. And when did Jane become evil? The fact that the show is getting rid of Auggie, one of the more interesting characters doesn't exactly inspire confidence. Do you think Heather can save the show? Talk about it below.

Dr. Ray Langston visits all three "CSI" shows beginning November 9: As much as I like Laurence Fishburne, his Ray Langston still hasn't caught on and giving him a week of serious over-exposure isn't going to make my TV remote grow fonder. There's something about his character that has never quite seemed at home on "CSI." I think originally that was part of his character arc - it made sense that Ray wouldn't immediately feel comfortable in a totally new work setting. But now I think his awkwardness is holding the show back. Do you agree? Will you watch Dr. Langston on thee "CSI" shows? Talk about it below.

Where Have I Seen Them Before?

Charles Malik Whitfield was the husband of the woman who had been raped on "Private Practice." He was James on "The Guardian." Tracie Thoms as his wife. She's Kat on "Cold Case." Lucy Kate Hale was the teen mom who had run away from home. She was Rose last season on "Privileged" (sniff), Becca on the remake of "Bionic Woman" and was just in the Lifetime movie "Sorority Wars." Kristin Bauer was her mother. Bauer is Pam on "True Blood."

Erinn Hayes was the burn victim who died on "Grey's Anatomy." She was Melanie last season on "Worst Week" and Alison on "The Winner." And we recently saw her on "HawthoRNe" as the woman whose mother had a stroke and she accidentally left her baby in her car. Bill Fagerbakke was the firefighter who was worried about the boy he had tried to save. He was Dauber on "Coach."

Carl, Kim and Jen recognized Barbara Alyn Woods as the mother who accused Gabby of being a bad mother on "Desperate Housewives." She's Deb Scott on "One Tree Hill." Jen also caught Aisha Hinds as the maid who didn't approve of Bree's affair. She was on "HawthoRNe" this season as Isabel, the homeless woman who had a baby. She was also Miss Jeanette on "True Blood."

Mary Page Keller was Annabelle, Roger's ex-girlfriend on "Mad Men." She was Will's mom last season on "Privileged" and the patient Andrea Hall on "Nip/Tuck." For some reason I always remember her as Zoe's mom on "Zoe, Duncan, Jack & Jane"

Candace was excited to see Michael O'Neill, who played Secret Service Agent Ron Butterfield on "The West Wing," as CIA Director Keller on "FlashForward."

Vincent Ventresca was the wealthy man obsessed with Sierra on "Dollhouse." I'll always remember him as the title character in the "The Invisible Man." He was also Jimmy on "Complete Savages."

Quotes of the Week

"How long do I have to work here before they insert a bug up my ass. You guys are all so cranky." Avery to Cristina on "Grey's Anatomy."

"We've got a gypsy and a hobo. And who are you supposed to be?" Carlton to Don on "Mad Men."

"You know, Bobby, killing you is officially on my bucket list." Dean, who's trapped in an 80 year old man's body, to Bobby on "Supernatural." Thanks to Sandy for the quote.

"I care about old people. I watch 'Desperate Housewives.'" Rebecca to Casey on "Greek."

"We're doing a Haunted House this Halloween which is actually kind of spooky because as legend has it on this very site there used to be a productive paper company." Jim on "The Office."

"Our experiment killed 20 million people Simon. What more is there to say?" Lloyd to Simon on "FlashForward."

"But please, don't pretend to feel sorry for me Marc. I know exactly what you did. And you know we both deserve this job, but I got it, so deal with it, and act your age...your new age." Betty to Marc, who just had a birthday. Thanks to Abby for the quote.

Exchanges of the Week

"What exactly are you supposed to be?" Alexis to her dad when he dress up like Captain Mal from "Firefly" on "Castle."

"Space cowboy." Castle's response.

"OK, (a) there are no cows in space; (b) didn't you wear that, like, five years ago?" Alexis

"So?" Castle.

"So, don't you think you should move on?" Thanks to Jeff, Joshua, Henry and Mark who were the first to submit what may turn out to be the most popular exchange of the year.

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"You're her." Lloyd to Olivia on "FlashForward."

"Not yet." Marc's response.

********

"Step on the wrong shoes and you get an involuntary reassignment to Fairbanks" A man trying to convince Don to come work for him on "Numb3rs."

"Fairbanks, never been there." Don's response and a nice inside joke shout out to "Northern Exposure" fans. Thanks to Gerald and Kevin for the exchange.

That's all for today. I'm back on Monday to talk about "The Vampire Diaries," "How I Met Your Mother," "The Mentalist," "FlashForward" and more. Have a question, seen a familiar face, want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for discussion? Write me at mailto:amytvgal@zap2it.comor follow me on Twitter. Have a great weekend and a Happy Halloween. Talk to you on Monday.

Are you ready for some football? 'Friday Night Lights' returns

2009-10-26T20:50:52Z

I feel like we've know each other long enough that I can tell you I waved at the TV when Tim Riggins first appeared during the fourth season premiere of "Friday Night Lights" (Wednesday at 9 p.m. on DirectTV's 101 Network). Yes I know deep down he's a fictional character but I was just so happy to see him. (And he still represents my only exception to the "no long hair on male TV characters" rule).

Besides getting to spend some much needed quality time with the ever dreamy Tim Riggins, what I love about "Friday Night Lights" is its ability to constantly mine real, nail-biting drama with high school football and small town Texas life as a back-drop. It's the only show I can think of that is able to so seamlessly weave in new characters and exit old ones. Because, like in life, every year some high school students graduate and others begin their freshman year.

Last season, the series shook up its formula by introducing rookie quarterback J.D. McCoy (Jeremy Sumpter) and his terror of a father Joe McCoy (D.W. Moffett). J.D. is back this season but the shy, insecure football player is not. Sumpter is utterly believable as the football player who suddenly finds himself to be the big man on campus and uses his new social status for all its worth.

As the season kicks off, Coach Eric Taylor (Kyle Chandler) is now the coach of East Dillon High which doesn't have the money, the resources or the players that West Dillon High did. A new school and a new year means the introduction of new players. Michael B. Jordan (who I remember as Wallace on "The Wire") joins the cast as Vince Howard, a troubled student show joins the football team after the police strongly encourage him to do so. The new team doesn't exactly take to Eric's coaching style. But as a viewer, it's exciting to see Coach Taylor build up a whole new team and interact with new players. When he tells the team "Clear Eyes. Full Hearts. Can't Lose," I got a little misty. And as always, with "Friday Night Lights," the results of the games are never predictable. The game in the premiere ended in a way I definitely did not expect.

While the town is divided in a whole East Dillon/West Dillon brouhaha, Matt (Zach Gilford) and Tim (Taylor Kitsch) are dealing with life post high school. "So what's it like being the guy who used to be Tim Riggins," he's asked. Both men are trying to establish what their life will be like now and both are struggling with what to do next. And Riggins is definitely back to his old ways. The series is easily able to fuse the new characters with the old, the drama of a high school football with the drama of moving on after football. And yes, Eric and Tami (Connie Britton) still have the best and most realistic marriage on TV.

Honestly, I couldn't love this show more. It remains one of the absolute best shows on television. Five out of five stars. My only regret is that most of you will have to wait until next year to see it when it airs on NBC. I'll probably hold off on talking more about the show until we are all able to enjoy "Friday Night Lights." But if you have DirectTV, definitely let me know what you think of the fourth season premiere after you've seen the show.

On the opposite end of the football spectrum, FX premieres its new series "The League" this Thursday at 10:30 p.m. The comedy follows a group of friends all in a fantasy football league. Peter (Mark Duplass) is the reigning league champion. Kevin (Stephen Rannazzisi) desperately wants to win and often turns to his wife Jenny (Katie Aselton) for advice. Ruxin (Nick Kroll) and his wife (played by Nadine Velazquez, Catalina on "My Name is Earl," so happy to see her again) just had a baby. Andre (Paul Scheer) keeps picking players who have retired and Kevin's younger brother Taco (Jon Lajoie) isn't quite ever sure why he's there. I turned to my in house expert, my husband who is in a fantasy football league every year, to vouch for the show's authenticity. He says the show definitely captures the trash talking, trades and draft picks of a real league. I can tell you there were moments on the show that I thought were absolutely hilarious. Like "Rescue Me" and "My Boys" the show captures the hilarious banter that can occur between friends. And, don't worry, you don't have to follow football to think it's funny. But there were other times when I thought the show was unnecessarily vulgar. The show has the potential to be extremely funny. It doesn't need the crutch of being crass. I'm also a little concerned that I thought the pilot was stronger than the second episode available for review. For now, three and a half out of five stars.

Highlights of the Week Ahead

All times listed are Eastern Standard Time for October 26 -November 1

"Greek" has its mid-season finale next Monday which means Thanksgiving comes a little earlier to the students at Cyprus Rhodes. Casey hosts a Thanksgiving dinner for all the college students left behind at 9 p.m. on ABC Family. I know this show wants to drag out the academic year as much as possible and I don't want Cappie, Ashleigh, Casey or Evan to graduate any time soon but it's a little ridiculous that it's only Thanksgiving, don't you think? Think of it - since September Rusty fell for another guy's girl, dated her, fell in love with, and then watched her leave for New York. The whole Frannie faux sorority happened this year too. By the way, is there anybody out there who doesn't want Cappie and Casey to get back together? Anyone?

Shows are all about Halloween this week. Castle and Beckett investigate the death of a man found in a graveyard with fangs and a stake through his heart on "Castle" (Monday, ABC, 10 p.m.).

No matter how many times I've seen it, I still want to watch "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" (Tuesday, ABC, 8 p.m.) every time it airs.

With Meredith on bed rest and Izzie MIA, McDreamy takes center stage on "Grey's Anatomy" this week (Thursday, ABC, 9 p.m.). Chandra Wilson, Dr. Bailey to you and me, directed the episode. I know it just started but I already think I'm just about ready for the whole merger story line to be wrapped up. It's making me think they're all bad doctors. Seriously after last week's episode, if I was ever injured in Seattle, I would insist on being airlifted to another state.

I know I complain early and often about "Private Practice" (Thursday, ABC, 10 p.m.) but I have to say I do like the way the show is handling the Violet story line so far. One of the things that irks me the most on a TV series is when a character suffers a major trauma and is back to normal within a few episodes. Violet should still be traumatized. It makes sense to me that she wouldn't be able to bond with her baby. The current story line almost makes up for the horror movie ending of last season - almost. This week, Violet faces Katie (Amanda Foreman) in court and a story line from last season returns. Remember the two patients whose embryos were switched? They're back.

You definitely want to tune into "Medium" (Friday, CBS, 9 p.m.) this week. Patricia Arquette is inserted into the movie "Night of the Living Dead" just in time for Halloween.

How do you know it's November sweeps? Familiar faces start to return to their old TV stomping grounds. That means Tommy is back on "Brothers & Sisters" this Sunday at 10 p.m. on ABC. Also is anyone else having trouble taking Roxy Olin seriously as Michelle considering she's also on "The City" or is that a problem only I suffer from?

For those of you who have complained that not enough happens on "Mad Men" (Sunday, AMC, 10 p.m.) or that the plots move too slowly, I hope you tuned into last night's episode. In one hour, Betty confronted Don about his past and Don confessed everything. I really like that this long kept secret is out in the open because I don't see Betty just brushing this aside, do you? And I was thrilled (thrilled!) that Joan smashed a vase over her husband's head. Now I just hope she takes it one more step and leaves him.And that wasn't even the biggest surprise. Who knew Roger would want to remain faithful to Jane. I'm not going to lie to you. It's kind of stressing me out that we only have two episodes left.

That's all for today. I'm back on Friday with a review of the new ABC series "V," a round-up of some of the most exciting events coming our way during November sweeps, quotes of the week, familiar faces and more. Have a question? Seen a familiar face? Want to nominate a quote of the week? Write me at amytvgal@zap2it.com or follow me on Twitter. Have a great weekend. Talk to you on Friday.

'White Collar' oozes charm and fun

2009-10-23T19:50:55Z

USA gets away with a lot by having absolutely charming male characters at the center of its dramas.

"Royal Pains" would be a much more boring medical show without Hank. "Burn Notice" wouldn't sizzle as much without Michael Westen. And we all know that without Monk there wouldn't be a show.

The network applies the same formula to its newest series "White Collar," premiering tonight at 10 p.m. on USA. Matt Bomer (Bryce Larkin on "Chuck") stars as master criminal Neal Caffrey. In the pilot, Neal cleverly escapes from jail only to be caught again by his benevolent nemesis FBI Agent Peter Burke (Tim DeKay). Burke offers him a deal - help me catch other bad guys and you can stay out of jail.

Bomer has a delightful carefree approach to the role. He looks like he's having fun so how can viewers not go along for the ride? And I've been a fan of DeKay's since he played Kirsten's husband many, many years ago on "Party of Five." He's been a television fixture for a long time - popping up as Bizarro Jerry on "Seinfeld," as Jonesy on "Carnivale," and as one half of a fairly dysfunctional relationship on "Tell Me You Love Me." It's really fun to see him in such a high profile role. And Peter is a great foil for Neal and vice versa. The pilot is a breezy, amusing hour of television.

I only have two complaints. Like many of USA shows, there's a lot of character but not necessarily enough substance. The plot in the pilot was pretty weak. And I'm just not sure what to make of Tiffani Thiessen as Peter's wife Elizabeth. The whole episode I kept waiting for a big reveal that somehow she's involved in the intrigue of the show - maybe she's an FBI agent too or shares a past with Neal -but right now she's just the wife. I keep thinking there has got to be more to her character.

But all in all, I liked the show. Three and a half out of five stars. After you watch tonight's premiere, let me know what you think.

Monk

Bitty Schram returns to "Monk" as Adrian's assistant, Sharona, tonight at 9 p.m. on USA. It's a fun episode for two very specific reasons:

1. I always thought the series did a fantastic job of making Natalie a completely distinct character from Sharona and really set up how different Sharona's relationship with Adrian was from Natalie's relationship with Mr. Monk. So it's highly entertaining to see Natalie and Sharona together.

2. Something happens in this episode that I've wanted to happen since Sharona was on the show. I won't spoil it for you but I think you'll be very happy when you see it.

But other than that, I was disappointed in the episode because the show continues to be so goofy and, far too often, has Monk acting like a fool. I know as the show works towards its series finale, Monk is finally going to solve the mystery of his wife's murder. That's a serious topic and one that right now the show doesn't tonally seem ready for. What do you think?

TV News This Week

Let's discuss the big stories that happened on TV this week starting with the good news first:

1. "Glee:" As "Glee" gears up for the second half of its season, a lot of fun news broke this week. Joss Whedon will direct an episode. That just seems like the perfect combination, doesn't it? As someone who still goes around singing the soundtrack to "Once More With Feeling," I cannot wait for this. We also learned that there will be an episode this season featuring only Madonna songs. I already have visions of the glee club belting out "Express Yourself" and Emma crooning "Crazy for You" to Will. The possibilities are endless. I almost can't take it.

2. Colin Egglesfield and Ashlee Simpson-Wentz are off "Melrose Place:" I sum it up like this, right decision with Ashlee, totally wrong decision with Colin. I don't think there's anything the show could do at this point to salvage Violet. She, Annie from "90210," and Billie from "Accidentally on Purpose," should go off and form their own annoying sitcom together. But I really liked the Auggie character. On a show that is clearly struggling, he was one of the more interesting characters and certainly had a lot of potential.It makes me even more worried about the show that the network couldn't see that.

3. FOX pulls "Dollhouse" for November sweeps: Enjoy tonight's episode of "Dollhouse" (Friday, FOX, 9 p.m.) because after tonight, the show won't be back on the schedule until December 4. And when it comes back, FOX will air the episodes back to back on Friday night. This makes me extremely nervous. Not only isn't it a vote of confidence, it's usually the first sign of cancellation. I'm trying not to panic but this is not looking good.

What do you think of the big TV stories this week? Talk about it below.

Where Have I Seen Them Before?

Ryan recognized Navi Rawat, Amita on "Numb3rs," as Maya on "FlashForward." She was also Theresa on "The O.C."

Reed Diamond was the husband who switched the babies at birth on "Castle." We saw Diamond last season on "Dollhouse" as Laurence Dominic and in this season premiere of "Monk" as the FBI agent who needed Monk to pose as a mob boss. He was also Jack on "Journeyman," Stuart on "Judging Amy," and Detective Mike Kellerman on "Homicide."

Dan recognized Travis Schuldt as the agent Walter experimented on on "Fringe." He was Elliot's boyfriend Keith on "Scrubs."

Robin recognized Hallee Hirsh as Carol on "Criminal Minds." Hirsh was Mark's daughter Rachel on "ER" and she popped up on the series premiere of "90210" as Andrea's daughter Hannah Vasquez.

Jon Seda was the police detective convinced he was going to die when he was 40 on "House." Seda was Detective Paul Falsone on "Homicide" and Ray on "Close to Home."

Marshall Allman was Danny Farrell, the brother of the teacher Don's having an affair with on "Mad Men." Allman was LJ on "Prison Break."

Alexie Gilmore was the patient who needed a kidney transplant on "Grey's Anatomy" and "Private Practice." Gilmore was Dr. Sara Dillane on the short-lived FOX series "New Amsterdam."

Quotes of the Week

"Punching your employees, even I know not to do that in public." Wilhelmina to Daniel on "Ugly Betty."

"I have mercury poisoning from constantly taking my rectal temperature." Jenna to Liz on "30 Rock." Ah the entertainment industry will never tire of making fun of Jeremy Piven. Thanks to Mark for the quote.

"Question 1. Do you want to be a Canadian? Question 2. Really?" Barney's version of the Canadian citizenship test on "How I Met Your Mother." Thanks to Barry for the quote.

"This place is better than a telenovela." Dr. Bailey while visiting Oceanside Wellness on "Private Practice."

"When my Mom applied to college she put being popular as her main extra-curricular activity, and she got into Arizona State." Quinn to Emma on "Glee." Thanks to Caitlin for the quote.

"And I'm not sneaking in the window Katie Holmes style. 'Dawson's Creek?' Forget it. You were too young." Dixon's older girlfriend to Dixon on "90210."

"That could have gone one of two ways, but I never expected her to be upset." Michael after he tells Pam he's dating her mother on "The Office."

Exchanges of the Week

"No wonder she hates him." An intern observing Cuddy and House on "House."

"That's not hate. It's foreplay." Another intern's response.

**********************

"Mommy, she's not Margaret. She's Jane. She's my wife." Roger to his mother when his mother calls Jane by his daughter's name on "Mad Men."

"Does Mona know?" Roger's mom's response.

"Yes she knows." Jane's response.

**********************

"You know some people appreciate my sense of humor." Evan to Ashleigh on "Greek."

"Some people appreciate Crocs." Ashleigh's response.

That's all for today. I'm back next week to talk about my love for Tim Riggins, I mean with a review of the fourth season premiere of "Friday Night Lights." I'll also have a round-up of some of the most exciting events coming our way during November sweeps. And don't forget that Joan is finally back on "Mad Men" this Sunday (all together now "Hooray!") Have a question? Seen a familiar face? Want to nominate a quote of the week? Write me at amytvgal@zap2it.com or follow me on Twitter. Have a great weekend. Talk to you on Monday.

I like 'Cougar Town.' Do you?

2009-10-19T19:44:28Z

I've been trying to figure out why some people (including me) have really been enjoying "Cougar Town" (Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. on ABC) and some people loathe it with a passion I reserve for shows like "Accidentally on Purpose" and "The Ex List."

Sure shows and performances have divided us before and certainly one person's favorite show is another's most hated. We all don't like the same things nor should we. But for some reason I didn't expect this kind of dividing line to be drawn with "Cougar Town." I thought once people saw it - and got past the tongue-in-cheek title - they would either find it funny or not, but wouldn't have such a strong reaction. Some readers have written to me that they find the show offensive and too vulgar. In general, scripted television offends me much less that reality TV does (for example nothing scripted will ever be as offensive to me as people who allow their children to be part of reality TV shows - the family edition of "The Amazing Race" being the rare exception). Do I think children should be watching "Cougar Town?" No I don't but I don't find the show offensive at all. I kind of think the characters talk and joke about things people do in real life but rarely do on television.

Also I've heard the complaint that Courteney Cox is completely unbelievable as Jules a somewhat insecure woman pinching the fat on her stomach, worrying about her face in the magnifying mirror and obsessing over the heels of her feet. But I totally believe it. Maybe it's because I, too, have one of those evil magnifying mirrors, but who among us hasn't fretted about some aspect of our appearance? No matter how good we look. I actually find it somewhat comforting that someone who looks like Jules is just as neurotic as the rest of us.

Plus I think the show is really funny. I couldn't help but laugh when Jules' son Travis (Dan Byrd) and his father Bobby (Brian Van Holt) drove around town in a golf cart. Or when Jules explained how she gets up an hour early to put on make up so that when Josh (Nick Zano) wakes up he thinks that's how she always looks. And I really like her rapport with Grayson (Josh Hopkins), the across the street neighbor she's obsessed with making her friend. We do live in a double standard society where it is easier for a man to re-enter the dating world at 40 than it is for a woman. Why shouldn't Jules be annoyed with that? I love that the show is exploring this topic in its own humorous way. This week, this get even more annoying for Jules when Bobby and Grayson become friends. (As a side note, is Grayson going to be the name of TV season kind of like Logan was a few years ago. It's now on both "Drop Dead Diva" and "Cougar Town").

Do I still think Christa Miller is too much like her character she played on "Scrubs." Absolutely. Do I think Cox is playing a version of Monica Geller if Monica had gotten married young and now was trying to re-live the years she missed out. Absolutely. But I wanted to defend and support "Cougar Town" as the hilarious, promising series I think it is. We have so few good comedies on TV and those of us who watch a lot of TV know how hard it is to make a viewer laugh. I'm thrilled "Cougar Town" was picked up for a full season. Do you agree with me? Disagree? Talk about it below.

Ask TV Gal

Why has Rachel Griffiths been missing from Brothers & Sisters for several episodes? With Tommy gone, that's huge chunks of the Walker clan missing, and it shows. Any news on Southland getting picked up by a cable network? Jason

Rachel Griffiths gave birth to her third child at the end of June and was written out of the early episodes this season to accommodate her maternity leave. But we'll be seeing more her now that Sarah's back from Paris and her French fling (Gilles Marini) followed her back to Pasadena. As for "Southland" there is some good news. Executive producer John Wells is apparently in talks with two different networks to pick up the show. Since production on the series has been shut down, the network that acquires the series will most likely air the seven episodes from last season and the six from this season that have already been shot as one complete season. Right now, the most likely candidate is TNT. I'm cautiously optimistic but I definitely don't want to count my TiVos before they're on. So let's all just keep our fingers crossed.

I know the fourth season of Friday Night Lights is about to start airing on DirecTV. Have you seen any of it? Do you know if it is going to continue to be one of the best shows on tv or is it something I should add to my dvr and watch it later list? Thanks, Katie

Katie your question is perfectly timed because I just received the season four premiere of "Friday Night Lights" in the mail. The show premieres on DirectTV's the 101 network next Wednesday, October 28 at 9 p.m. The season will kick off with Coach Taylor as the coach of East Dillon High and having to build up a football team now that the entire town has undergone redistricting. Meanwhile Tami is still the Principal of West Dillon High. I haven't watched the episode yet but I'll definitely have a review of the season premiere in next Monday's column. The entire fourth season will air on NBC in late spring/summer 2010.

Highlights of the Week Ahead

All times listed are Eastern Standard Time for October 19-25

Will this be the episode where "How I Met Your Mother" (Monday, CBS, 8:30 p.m.) gets its mojo back? I hope so. Barney tries to convince Robin to become a U.S. citizen and I'm also hearing that they'll be another significant plot development tonight as well.

Will Wheaton, who we just saw on an episode of "Leverage," guest stars as himself on "The Big Bang Theory" (Monday, CBS, 9:30 p.m.). It seems that Sheldon has, no surprise, a gripe with him. Meanwhile, Wolowitz wants to be set up with one of Penny's friends. The show is doing a great job of having Penny and Leonard together without it affecting the overall dynamic of the show. I think that's partly due to the fact that the Penny/Leonard potential romance never dominated the show and that Penny and Leonard together annoys Sheldon even more.

I think I've told you guys this story before, but when the original "Beverly Hills 90210" first premiered, I didn't watch the show. It aired opposite "Cheers" and so I never checked the show out. But one Thursday, "Cheers" was in repeats and I tuned into the episode that had the gang dressing up for Halloween - remember Donna as a mermaid? I was hooked. So I have high hopes for this week's episode of "90210" (Tuesday, CW, 8 p.m.) which will be Halloween themed (think Adrianna as Marilyn Monroe). Also it looks like Dixon will try to end his relationship with Sasha this week - emphasis on the word "try." Dixon is about to head into a very familiar teen soap opera story line.

Daphne Zuniga returns to "Melrose Place" Tuesday at 9 p.m. on the CW. Jo is still a photographer and just guess who has been hired to do Riley's photo shoot? Crazy coincidence, right?

Alicia must prove that a train company, and not its engineers, was responsible for a train crash on "The Good Wife" (Tuesday, CBS, 10 p.m.). Martha Plimpton, who we just saw as the mother of the teenage boy with inexplicable pain in the two-hour season premiere of "Grey's Anatomy" guest stars as the attorney for the train company. I continue to really enjoy the story line of Alicia's personal life. Last week, when she realized a gift from her husband may have been a bribe he received from someone else was so gut wrenching. Julianna Margulies is great at playing a woman who is trying to hold it all together and not let anyone else see how difficult her whole situation is. I also think the cases of the week are getting stronger. They're still not what gets me to tune into the show but they are entertaining.

Finn being naÃ¯ve about Quinn's pregnancy doesn't bother me as much as the Will/Terri story line on "Glee" (Wednesday, FOX, 9 p.m.). I'm okay with a high school student being that clueless. This week, everyone finds out that Quinn is pregnant and it turns the school's most popular couple into outcasts. We'll also learn a little bit more about Sue's personal life.

Last week's "Modern Family" (Wednesday, ABC, 9 p.m.) was the best yet. It was wonderful to watch Shelley Long's humor fit right in with the rest of the family. Here's hoping she's back soon. It seems like every episode offers up something that still makes me chuckle days later. Last week, it was Phil screaming "I've got Gloria" during the fight between Gloria and Dede. This show just makes me so happy because every week it's funny. It sounds so simple, but it's true. Make me laugh and I'm a happy TV Gal. This week, Gloria and Phil have the family over for a cookout and, as you might expect, all does not go well.

Like a lot of you, I definitely thought "The Office" suffered with both Jim and Pam out of the office. I liked that they weren't there in the sense that it was true-to-life that they would be on their honeymoon, but without Jim and Pam the show just isn't as funny. They're back this week and Pam finds out who her mother has been dating at 9 p.m. on NBC.

Don't forget Will Arnett is back on "30 Rock" Thursday at 9:30 p.m. on NBC.

So what did you think of "Ugly Betty" (Friday, ABC, 8 p.m.)? Guest stars abound this week. Hamish Linklater (Christine's brother on "The New Adventures of Old Christine") guest stars as a designer, Adam Ferrara (the chief on "Rescue Me") pops up as Hilda's customer and Jamie-Lynn Sigler ("herself" on "Entourage") is a woman Daniel meets in his bereavement group.

We'll find out why Sierra entered the "Dollhouse" this Friday at 9 p.m. on FOX.

That's all for today. I'm back on Friday with a review of new USA drama "White Collar," this Friday's episode of "Monk" (featuring Sharona), this week's familiar faces, quotes of the week, and more. Have a question? Seen a familiar face? Want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for discussion? Write me at amytvgal@zap2it.com or follow me on Twitter. Talk to you on Friday.

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'Ugly Betty' is Beautiful in Season Four

2009-10-16T20:51:33Z

It finally happened.

Ever since "Ugly Betty" premiered, I've been waiting for Betty (America Ferrera) to start dressing a little more sophisticated and put together. I didn't want her to lose the things that made her Betty but I also thought it odd that she worked at a fashion magazine for three years and not a single thing seemed to be rubbing off on her. Things finally start to rub off as the fourth season kicks off tonight (Friday at 8 p.m. on ABC)

In addition to her outward appearance, there's a lot of change is afoot for Betty which is fantastic because we want to see our lead characters evolve and grow as the seasons progress. And as tonight's two-hour season premiere demonstrates, things really have changed for Betty. She's been promoted to associate features editor much to the chagrin of both her former-boyfriend-turned-boss Matt and her colleague Megan (a spot on Smith Cho).

While often I've felt the show has wandered a little aimlessly, the fourth season begins with most of the characters off to strong story lines. You find out early on who shocked Wilhelmina at the end of last season and it's a story line that allows Wilhelmina to be Wilhelmina while also showing her softer side. In particular, I really liked the interaction between Justin, who struggles as he enters high school, and Marc, who knows a lot about what those struggles are about. Marc becomes a more grounded character when he helps Justin out and I think Justin's story line will be familiar to anyone who didn't find high school, for whatever reason, to be the best time of his or her life.

The only story line I didn't love was Amanda with Daniel's new temp (played by Kristen Johnston). I continue to think that Amanda can be much more than a one-note character with biting one liners. I would really like for her to get a much stronger story arc this season.

But all in all, I think the show is off to a strong start (four out of five stars). I'm just hoping people still find the show in its new time slot. Will you be watching "Ugly Betty" tonight? Talk about it below.

Discussion Topics of the Week

As much I'm still enjoying "Glee" (as I've said before, the way to my season pass manager is through a well done musical number), I just cannot stand Terri faking her pregnancy. It makes no sense. Will can't possibly be that dumb. Even if we concede that Will never sees his wife naked or gets to know her in the biblical sense any more. He's okay with never seeing his wife without her shirt on? He never wants to touch her stomach? He doesn't bump into her while they're sleeping and feel that she has something attached to her body? He really thinks it's okay that the doctor puts up a sheet during an ultrasound? I need this story line to be wrapped up fast. The other thing I'm concerned about is that every episode is a variation on the same theme - something or someone breaks up the glee club before they're eventually brought back together by the end of the episode. I think we also need to get to sectionals fast. How about you?

Okay I've been trying to put off this conversation because it pains me to say it but (deep breath) here I go - since the season premiere, I don't think "How I Met Your Mother" has been that funny this season. I'm so disappointed because, as you know, I think "HIMYM" is one of the best comedies on TV. But the plots this season have been more preposterous than usual. It's ridiculous that Marshall and Lily would act so silly when they had Robin and Barney over for dinner or that the conversation would be so awkward. The gang hangs out all the time. One of the things I love about "HIMYM" is that it usually taps into what a real group of friends are like. Sure it's always exaggerated for television but it's been grounded in reality. The show seems to have lost sight of that this season. Do you agree?

Are you still watching "Dollhouse" this season? I hope so because the show is really hitting its stride. I like having Ballard working to bring down the Dollhouse from the inside. I like that we got to see November/Mellie/Madeline again and hear why she entered the Dollhouse in the first place. Next week, we'll learn why Sierra entered the Dollhouse. And I think the assignment of the week stories have been much better - particularly last week's that had a serial killer's personality ricocheting all over L.A. All that plus some of our favorite actors from the Whedonverse - Amy Acker, Alexis Denisof, and, starting next week, Summer Glau. What have you thought of "Dollhouse" so far this season.

Where Have I Seen Them Before?

Mike Starr was the insurance salesman Andy and Dwight thought was a member of the Mafia on "The Office." Starr was Kenny on "Ed."

Dennis B. recognized Tiffany Dupont, Frannie on "Greek," as the prostitute who helped Lauren escape the yacht on "Melrose Place." Dennis A. recognized Kevin Alejandro, who we won't be seeing as Detective Nate Moretta on "Southland" (just for fun, let's say it again - Boooo NBC, Boooo!), as the designer Anton V. on "Melrose Place." Alejandro was also Rudolpho on "Weeds" (remember he kidnapped Celia), Santos on "Ugly Betty," and Danny on "Shark." And we just saw him on "Drop Dead Diva" as the man wrongfully accused of a crime.

Steve recognized that Joe Morton had double primetime duty this week. He's Justin's professor on "Brothers & Sisters" and Peter's lawyer on "The Good Wife." Morton is Henry Deacon on "Eureka."

Toby recognized Tyler Hoechlin as the violin instructor on "Castle." Hoechlin was Martin on "7 Heaven" and Owen Scott on "My Boys."

Anne and Steve recognized Leslie Hendrix, Dr. Elizabeth Rodgers on "Law & Order" and "Law & Order: Criminal Intent," as the jury consultant on "The Good Wife." Chris Bauer was the opposing counsel. Bauer is Detective Andy Bellefleur on "True Blood" and I always remember him as Frank on "Third Watch" and Frank Sobotka on "The Wire."

Ginni recognized Brian Hallisay, Will on "Privileged," as Joanna's former fiancÃ© on "Eastwick." Rachel Boston, Beth on "American Dreams," was his new fiancÃ©e.

Marc Blucas, Riley on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," was Jack Rader, the rival truth telling expert on "Lie to Me." Mary Mara was the hospital administrator trying to figure out where the tainted blood came from. I'll always remember Mara for playing Loretta many years ago on "ER" (remember she was the prostitute Carter was always trying to help.)

It was quite traumatic to see Ben Feldman, Fred on "Drop Dead Diva," as Jack, the victim of the week (and not a nice one either) on "CSI." Tracy Middendorf was his boss. I'll pull Middendorf out of my "deserves her own show" file to tell you she was Carla Matheson during the second season of "24," Bonnie on "Lost" (remember she worked at The Looking Glass station), Elsa Kaplan on "Alias" (she played Christian Slater's wife) and I'll always remember her as Laura Kingman on "90210,"

Gina Torres is Felicia, Wedeck's wife, on "FlashForward." Among her many TV roles, Torres was Anna Espinosa on "Alias," Julia Milliken on "24," Jasmine on "Angel," and Zoe on "Firefly." Kim Dickens was Aaron's ex-wife on "FlashForward." She's Cassidy, the woman Sawyer conned on "Lost" and Matt's mom Shelby on "Friday Night Lights."

Quotes of the Week

"There's just got to be more to life than eating pudding and watching 'CSI'" Elderly patient to McSteamy on "Grey's Anatomy."

"I know my methods are extreme. I know I'm not like the rest of you hippies, caring about the kids' feelings as if they're real." Sue to Will on "Glee."

"Irina's actually a really good designer. The only problem with her is that she's a bitch." Nicholas on "Project Runway." Thanks to Jackie for the quote.

Exchange of the Week

"What do we want?" Kenneth to the striking pages on "30 Rock."

"To get your sandwiches." The striking pages chant back to Kenneth.

"When do we want it?" Kenneth.

"Whenever it will be convenient for you!" the pages' response. I didn't love the strike story line but I found this particular exchange hilarious.

That's all for today. I'm back on Monday to check in on new shows and see how they're doing (are we still liking "Cougar Town" and "Modern Family") and I'll also have a review of the new USA drama "White Collar." Have a question? Seen a familiar face? Want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for discussion? Write me at amytvgal@zap2it.com or follow me on Twitter. Have a great weekend. Talk to you on Monday.

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I'm Jonesing for Joan on 'Mad Men'

2009-10-12T20:17:10Z

Last night's episode of "Mad Men" was great except for one thing - there was no Joan. "Mad Men" has created this world where characters effortlessly move in and out of episodes from the background to the center of the action. For example, we saw little of Pete and a lot more of Sal last night and this format serves the show extremely well. But I need more Joan. Except for her brief and devastating appearance as a department store manager last week, Joan has been missing in action for far too long. I can't stand not knowing what's going on with her and her awful marriage. It's unacceptable. How is she doing now that she's not working at Sterling Cooper. I feel like there's a whole show I'm missing out on. Because let me be clear, I would watch a TV series centered around Joan. We don't get that many episodes of "Mad Men" per season. It's stressing me out that Joan is missing from so many of them. (Granted, I was already stressed yesterday because of the extremely upsetting Red Sox game -- the lack of Joan just added to it.)

You know who else I miss? Taub on "House." While I don't loathe Thirteen like many of you do, I think it's a mistake that right now she's the only one of new cast remaining. Sometimes I feel like the show has written itself into a corner with so many good characters and not know how to handle them all. I know we've been wanting to see more of Chase on but what happened with his character last week seemed to come out of nowhere, don't you think? Chase would suddenly unilaterally decide to kill a patient? That kind of wild character arc (it will play out over the next several episodes) seems more like "Grey's Anatomy" than "House." It feels like the show is playing musical chairs with its cast because it is.

And I really don't understand "Melrose Place" bringing back both Laura Leighton and Thomas Calabro and the so under using them. (Why Jane Mancini is suddenly evil is a topic for another time.) The show would be so much stronger if Sydney were still among the living. I watch every episode hoping this is when we learn Sydney faked her death AGAIN.

But you know what character I think should be totally dropped? Let the Ryan story line go on "Brothers & Sisters." I don't think it was the actor's fault. He was doomed from the start since none of us were that interested in learning about another Walker illegitimate sibling. And having him try to bring down the Walker family business just isn't that interesting to me.

Who do you want to see more of? Who do you want to see less of? Talk about it below.

Highlights of the Week Ahead

All times listed are Eastern Standard Time for October 12-18

My friend Korbi tells me we definitely need to watch "How I Met Your Mother" (Monday, CBS, 8 p.m.) tonight. Jason Segel will be singing as Marshall and Lilly and Barney and Robin go on a double date. As much as I love the show, the past two episdoes have been a bit of a let down. Here's hoping tonight's episode gets the show back on track.

I think by now you know that "Cheers" remains one of my all-time favorite TV shows. So I'm beyond thrilled that Shelley Long is appearing on "Modern Family" (Wednesday, ABC, 9 p.m.) as Jay's ex-wife and Claire and Mitchell's mother.

Scott Foley, who we can't see in "The Unit" any more, pops up on this week's "Law & Order: SVU" (Wednesday, NBC, 9 p.m.). Many of you have written to me that you're not a fan of Christine Lahti's new ADA. I SO agree. As much as I like Lahti, I just can't stand her character. No character is entertaining when they are that one-dimensional and unreasonable.

I'm sorry I just couldn't bring myself to watch the premiere of "Nip/Tuck" (Wednesday, FX, 10 p.m.) I usually try to watch everything when it premieres but this show lost me a long time ago. For those of you who will still be tuning in, look for Katey Sackoff, Rose McGowan, Linda Hunt, Mario Lopez, and Wayne Knight to guest star. And if you think the show has improved, definitely let me know.

If you were hesitant to start watching "FlashForward" for fear ABC would cancel it abruptly (a completely reasonable fear given ABC's track record with dramas we like), you can go ahead and get hooked. ABC has picked up the series for the full season. (The network also picked up "Modern Family," "The Middle," and "Cougar Town" for full seasons). This week on "FlashForward," Peyton List returns as Nicole, Mark and Olivia's babysitter. I don't know about you but I have to keep reminding myself that List is also Roger's wife Jane on "Mad Men."

So we already know I'm just looking for a reason to not watch NBC anymore and totally launch a full on boycott of the network to protest they way they've treated "Southland." But that's not going to happen anytime soon since I loved, loved, loved last week's wedding episode of "The Office." Can you imagine being the couple who had their wedding video on YouTube? It's one thing to be on "The Today Show," it's quite another to inspire an episode of "The Office." What I liked the most about the episode is that it was "The Office" at its best. Amid all the hilarious inanity, the emotions between Jim and Pam were so relatable. My favorite part was when Pam said, "This was supposed to be our wedding day. Why did we invite all these people?" I have to tell you there were times I felt precisely like that. And the whole scene at the end that juxtaposed Jim and Pam getting married on the Maid of the Mist with everyone else's ridiculous dancing was just perfect. I totally see tourism to Niagra Falls going way up. We won't see Jim and Pam on "The Office" (Thursday, NBC, 9 p.m.) this week and executive producer Paul Lieberstein (Toby) told critics over the summer that with Jim and Pam off on their honeymoon, "the coalition of reason" is gone from the Scranton branch. Therefore, everyone becomes convinced that Michael is doing business with the mafia.

"30 Rock" is back for a fourth season Thursday at 9:30 p.m. on NBC. The gang is informed by Jack that they need to become more relatable to the American public. So that means Jenna is doing promos for NBC sports and Tracy takes to the streets to meet the common man. Meanwhile Kenneth organizes a strike but his demands are very Kenneth-like. The episode has some genuine laughs. I particularly appreciated the digs at NBC (which I was so in the mood for) and the rather snarky tag at the very end of the episode. But, overall, I didn't think the episode really worked. It felt clunky and awkward to me. On a scale of what I know "30 Rock" is capable of, I'm giving the premiere three and a half out of five stars. The show definitely mines its humor from being absolutely absurd but the outrageousness needs to be grounded in something and I think that's missing from the premiere. I definitely like next week's episode, featuring my not-so-secret TV boyfriend Will Arnett, much better. But I do worry about the direction the show is taking Jenna (Jane Krakowski). You know I've always felt like the Jenna character was the weak link of the show and she's more ridiculous that usual in the first two episode.

Enrique Murciano, who we can't see on "Without a Trace" anymore, guests on "CSI" (Thursday, CBS, 9 p.m.) as a detective.

Chandra Wilson's Dr. Bailey descends on "Private Practice" (Thursday ABC, 10 p.m.) to try to talk some sense into Oceanside Wellness. As much as I wasn't a fan of the Addison/Noah story line, I'm glad the show isn't completely dropping it and pretending like the whole thing never happened. We'll see more of the Noah/Addison fall out this week.

It's the season finale of "Psych" this Friday at 10 p.m. on USA, but don't worry the show will return with new episodes in January.

"Being Erica" has been picked up for a second season and will begin airing on SOAPnet on January 20, 2010. If you're like me, you might have missed some of the episodes of the first season. SOAPnet begins reairing the first season this Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 11 p.m.

I feel as though I must issue a formal apology to "Brothers & Sisters" (Sunday, ABC, 10 p.m.). Although I was prepared to totally despise the "Kitty has cancer" story line and I definitely could do without another Walker family dinner that dissolves into a screaming match, I must admit that the show is handling the story line quite well. It's been heart-wrenching and believable to see the family's reaction to Kitty's diagnosis. This week Gilles Marini (the object of Samantha's lust in the "Sex and the City" movie) guest stars as the sexy man Sarah met while she was on vacation in France.

That's all for today. I'm back on Friday with a review of the two-hour premiere of "Ugly Betty," why you should be watching "Dollhouse" (the show has been so good this season) and this week's familiar faces (Fred as very bad man) and quotes of the week. Have a question? Seen a familiar face? Want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for conversation? Write me at mailto:amytvgal@zap2it.comor follow me on Twitter. Talk to you on Friday.

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'Drop Dead Diva' saves me from my cancellation blues

2009-10-09T20:47:14Z

Let me just warn everyone right now: I'm mighty cranky today. I'm talking the kind of cranky where no amount of dark chocolate peanut M&M's can comfort me.

Why?

Because NBC has cancelled "Southland" before the show even premiered. The show was scheduled to return to the schedule for a second season on Friday, October 23. Instead we'll be treated to more episodes of "Dateline." Apparently the show was deemed too dark for the 9 p.m. hour, an excuse I don't tend to believe at all since NBC airs "Law & Order: SVU," not exactly a particularly cheery show, in the 9 p.m. hour. What will become of the six episodes that have already been shot for the second season? One can only hope that a cable network picks up the show (seems perfect for FX, doesn't it?) To me this feels like the final straw with NBC. If it wasn't for "The Office" and "30 Rock," I think I'd be ready to let the whole network go. Why should we even listen to networks anymore? They pick up shows they never air. Renew shows that don't come back. Announce premiere dates that are continuously moved. Like I said, I'm so cranky.

Therefore, let's move on to happier topics. Like the season finale of "Drop Dead Diva," this Sunday at 10 p.m. on Lifetime. "Drop Dead Diva" was perhaps the most delightful show of the summer and the rare show that I thought got better with every episodes. Who knew such a wacky, completely improbably premise could be so enjoyable? I'm kind of loving everything about Brooke Elliot's performance as Jane (yes even her distinctive walk and the way she flips her hair). And I love how the Grayson/Jane relationship has evolved, particularly how we now understand what he saw in Deb and how in love Deb and Grayson were. The show also has done a great job of making Kim not simply a completely bitchy character and Stacy not your typical dumb blonde. Credit goes to the writers and the actors for ensuring that none of the characters devolved into one-note clichÃ©s.

The best thing about "Drop Dead Diva" is that it ends its first season with several cliffhangers looming especially Grayson and Jane's relationship which gets a quite a bit screen time. The big reveal to me seems a little forced and unnecessary but that's a small complaint about an otherwise completely enjoyable hour. Alas we won't see Fred (Ben Feldman) on Sunday but according to my friends at Lifetime, he'll be back in a big way in season two.

Before the season finale of "Diva," you can catch the third season finale of "Army Wives" at 9 p.m. on Lifetime. You know how I've been complaining that not enough happened on the show this season (Roxy doesn't like the dog! Pamela gets a new house!). Well it seems that the showrunners saved everything for the season finale because A LOT happens - both good and bad-- and nothing is really resolved at the end of the hour. The most believable plot developments happen between Pamela and Chase. I had to look up what happened in the second season finale because Michael being relocated to Europe just didn't pack that much of punch. I think this is a season finale fans will remember.

Are you excited for the season finales of "Drop Dead Diva" and "Army Wives?" Talk about it below.

The Vampire Diaries

So I have to confess I'm liking this show much more than I thought I would. I'm still giving the majority of the credit to Ian Somerhalder's deliciously evil Damon. A vampire show needs a good villain and Damon definitely is one. But I think it's Nina Dobrev's Elena who has really sold me on the show. She's got some spunk and one of my pet peeves with shows like this is when the damsel in distress is so clueless (see Lana Lang on "Smallville"). I like that Elena is already all "What the heck is up with your secrecy?" and starting to put together the clues. I think the show would be stronger if more people knew Stefan's secret -- a main character continually and improbably keeping a secret can get really old, really fast. I'm with all of you who think the drug storyline with Jeremy and Vicki is a little tired. I'm not quite sure the show needs this particular angle. But other than that I'm enjoying the mix of teen angst, romance, quip dialogue and horror. How about you?

Where Have I Seen Them Before?

Diane was the first to recognize the slew of familiar faces on "Castle" this week. Julian Sands played the fashion designer Teddy. Over the summer, Sands was Reg Hunt in "Bollywood Hero." Among his many TV roles, Sands was also Hector on "Lipstick Jungle" and Vladimir Bierko during the fifth season of "24." Diane remembers him most as George on "A Room with a View." Torrey DeVitto was the model. DeVitto was Karen on "Beautiful People" and played the psycho Nanny Carrie on "One Tree Hill."

Myra recognized James Frain as the schizophrenic patient who was in a car accident with his mother on "Grey's Anatomy." Frain is Thomas Cromwell on "The Tudors" and we recently saw him on "In Plain Sight" as the man who had assumed the identity of his college friend. He was also Audrey's husband Paul during the fourth season of "24." For some reason, I'll always remember Frain as Forney in the movie "Where the Heart Is." Adrienne Barbeau was his mother. She was Ruthie on "Carnivale" and, of course, Carol on "Maude."

Gordon recognized David Marciano as Wilson's neighbor on "House." Marciano was Detective Billings on "The Shield" and Ray on "Due South."

Katie wanted to make sure we all know that Marguerite MacIntyre, Nicole Trager on "Kyle XY," is the sheriff on "The Vampire Diaries." And Elizabeth wanted to make sure we know that we can catch Matt Dallas, Kyle XY himself, as Chad on "Eastwick."

Kristoffer Polaha was the man who hired Echo to be his wife on "Dollhouse." Polaha is also Carlton Hanson on "Mad Men" - remember he's married to Betty's friend Francine (Anne Dudek). He was also Tim on "Miss Guided" and Danny on "Valentine." We'll see him soon in the upcoming CW series "Life UneXpected."

Jessica Collins was the assistant district attorney prosecuting the case against Alicia's client on "The Good Wife." Collins was the miniature killer Natalie on "CSI" and Lizzie on "The Nine."

Max Greenfield was the real estate agent who accused Jonah of stealing a client's necklace on "Melrose Place." He also appears in the online campaign promoting the show. Greenfield was Nick on "Ugly Betty," Michael on "Greek," and Leo on "Veronica Mars."

Brooke Burns was the famous model accused of murdering her husband on "Drop Dead Diva." She's currently playing Michael Mancini's wife Vanessa on "Melrose Place." She was also Lisa on "Miss Guided" and Kathy on "Pepper Dennis."

Quotes of the Week

"The human mind is like Van Halen. If you just pull out one piece and keep replacing it, it just degenerates." Topher to Barry on "Dollhouse." Thanks to Barry for the quote.

"Oh my god. It's three years ago. Does that mean I'm still crazy?" House when Cameron and Chase walk in with Foreman on "House."

"I'm not going to be one of those pathetic girls whose world stops spinning because of some guy." Elena to her aunt on "The Vampire Diaries."

"You can't eat me. See, I'm not a Paris Hilton BFF. I've never even seen House of Wax." Dean to the Paris Hilton lookalike pagan god on "Supernatural." Thanks to Sandy who particularly liked this quote because Sam is played by Jared Padalecki who starred in "House of Wax."

Exchange of the Week

"What are you doing?" Oscar to Kevin on "The Office."

" I'm trying to decide if I have time to pee." Kevin's response.

"How long do you take to pee?" Oscar

"The peeing is fast Oscar. It's getting my tie back on." Kevin. Thanks to Josh for the exchange.

That's all for today. I'm back on Monday with a review of the return of "30 Rock" and a list of characters we need to see more of (how much do we miss Joan on "Mad Men") and those we see too much (I'm talking to you Ryan Walker). Also coming next week a review of the premiere of "Ugly Betty" (assuming ABC doesn't move the premiere again. I trust no one these days). Have a question? Seen a familiar face? Want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for conversation? Write me at mailto:amytvgal@zap2it.com or follow me on Twitter. Have a great weekend. Talk to you on Monday.

Sherri Shepherd is funny, her show not so much

2009-10-05T20:21:57Z

I don't think my life would be good as a sitcom. Oh look how hilarious it is that she sits at her computer all day long. Isn't it funny how sometimes she doesn't shower until 3 o'clock because she's so busy writing? What about her addiction to seltzer water and dark chocolate? That's comedy gold!

But there actually wasn't anything that funny about Sherri Shepherd's life either. As anyone who watches "The View" knows, Shepherd's husband cheated on her and had a child with another woman. Shepherd divorced him and now she's turned the experience into the premise of her self-titled sitcom "Sherri," premiering Monday at 7 p.m. on Lifetime. (The series will air every night this week at 7 p.m. before moving to it's regular time slot next Tuesday at 10 p.m.).

She's taking that "when life gives you lemons" clichÃ© to a whole other level. The entire show has a "you go girl" vibe. Shepherd is an extremely likeable and relatable TV star. There's something about her that makes it seem like you could call her up and make plans to go shoe shopping together. She also has a way with delivering zingers that she perfected on show like "Suddenly Susan" and "Less Than Perfect" and that we still see on display on "30 Rock" where she occasionally appears as Tracy's wife.

The problem with "Sherri" is that the script doesn't live up to Shepherd's talents. She's surrounded by a great cast including Malcolm Jamal-Warner as her ex-husband and James Avery as her dad. I would totally recast Sherri's office mates who are trying way too hard and it's just not working. Right now Sherri is a four star comedic actress stuck in a two star series. But we know she's faced greater adversity than this so I'll keep tuning in to see how the show does.

After you watch "Sherri," let me know what you think.

Highlights of the Week Ahead

All times listed are Eastern Standard Time for October 5-11

We talked about this episode awhile ago. James Marsters guest stars on "Lie to Me" (Monday, FOX, 9 p.m.). Lightman's ex-wife Zoe (Jennifer Beals) asks Cal to help her defend a football player accused of statutory rape.

Does anyone else find it funny that it's Dixon whose trying to pretend to be an adult on "90210" (Tuesday, CW, 8 p.m.) when it's Teddy who looks like he's had at least 10 good years since he graduated from high school (That's actually an understatement. Trevor Donovan turns 31 next week.). I'm used to actors looking older than the teenagers they play but Donovan is definitely stretching any semblance of credibility the show has going. I'm also not that into the burgeoning Navid/Adrianna/Teddy love triangle the show has brewing. As we all know, every teen soap needs a good love triangle and "90210" has yet to come up with one. This week, Dixon's girlfriend catches on to Dixon and, most importantly, Ann Gillespie returns as Kelly and Silver's mom. Silver runs into when she attends an AA meeting with Adrianna and learns exactly what has been going on with her mom.

Skeet Ulrich played the good guy on "Jericho" but he begins his guest star stint as a serial killer on "CSI:NY" (Wednesday, CBS, 10 p.m.).

I thought the second episode of "FlashForward" (Thursday, ABC, 8 p.m.) definitely lived up to the promise of the pilot. I like that there are characters who question the show's premise and the episode ended on an extremely creepy note that left me wanting more. My husband thinks the show is moving too slow but I don't find that to be true. How about you?

To make Thursday nights even more stressful, there's a slew of guest stars popping up on Thursday night this week. Jasmine Guy is on "The Vampire Diaries" (Thursday, CW, 8 p.m.), Leonard Nimoy is back as William Bell on "Fringe" (Thursday, FOX, 9 p.m.) and in what should be a very fun cameo, Paris Hilton pops up as herself on "Supernatural" (Thursday, CW, 9 p.m.) when the brothers investigate a slew of murders being committed by famous people.

NBC takes "Community" out of its fairly cushy post-"The Office" time slot this week and moves the show to its new time slot of Thursday at 8 p.m. this week (next week "30 Rock" moves into the Thursday at 9:30 p.m. time slot). I'm not sure how well the show will do when it's the lead off for the night. I liked last week's episode the best of the three that have aired but I'm still not completely sold on the show. It's clear that "Community" is still trying to figure out the right tone - is it going to be totally over the top like "30 Rock" or a slightly more grounded comedy like say "Two and a Half Men." It's okay that it doesn't know yet - it's only been three episodes - but I still would like to be laughing more. This week, John Oliver returns as Professor Duncan and Jeff tries to stop gossiping about Britta and her new boyfriend.

Jim and Pam get married in a special one hour episode of "The Office" (Thursday, NBC, 9 p.m.). As you know, the happy couple was hoping no one from work would be able to attend since they are getting married in Niagara Falls but Michael gave everyone the day off so the whole gang will be there to see them say their "I do's." We'll also meet Jim and Pam's family. I'm so glad the show is continuing to advance the Jim and Pam story and that Jim is showing even more initiative this season. One of the things that's tricky about Jim's character is that in real life, he might have moved on to a different company by now so it's great to see him jockeying for a promotion. Last week also was another great moment where viewers could see that Michael sometimes actually does know what he's doing. Jim may think Michael has bad ideas and wastes way too much time but Michael's job is much more difficult that Jim thought it was.

Sure the story line may have been developed to set up the temporary departure of Katherine Heigel (she's shooting a movie) but I have to say that the merger story line on "Grey's Anatomy" seems to really be tempering the show's typical shenanigans. It's also allowed for Meredith and Derek to have quite a few angst-free weeks, which the show really needed - especially because Meredith will soon be missing from episodes (Ellen Pompeo is on maternity leave). This week (Thursday, ABC, 9 p.m.), Jeff Perry returns as Meredith and Lexie's dad.

So what did you think of the season premiere of "Private Practice" (Thursday, ABC, 10 p.m.)? I'm certainly glad the show did not kill off Violet or her baby and the fact that Cooper, in his mind, failed Violet twice (the first time when he was at her door and didn't go in her house and the second when he didn't answer his pages and get to the baby sooner) will definitely lead to some great stuff between Cooper and Violet, which as I've previously stated, is my favorite relationship on the show. This week Addison and Naomi try to rebuild their friendship. Raise your hand if you even remotely care about that.

If you're waiting for the fourth season premiere of "Ugly Betty," you have to wait one more week. Last Friday, ABC decided to delay the premiere of the show until next Friday, October 16. The upside is that means for one more week ABC will be repeating this week's episode of "FlashForward" Friday at 8 p.m. I really hope the network can find another time slot to repeat the show in - we need all the help we can get on Thursday night.

I'm liking quite a bit about this season of "Desperate Housewives" (Sunday, ABC, 9 p.m.). I'm warming to Drea de Matteo and Jeffrey Nordling as this season's mysterious neighbors - even if Nordling's New York accent leaves something to be desired. And I like that many of the secondary characters have been brought to the forefront, particularly the always amusing Richard Burgi as Susan's ex-husband Karl and Andrea Bowen as Julie. The only thing I can't abide is that they are making Katherine a crazy person. I was okay with her breakdown during the wedding but that was as far as I was willing to take it. I don't want her completely delusional. When Orson seems totally sane compared to her, we've got a problem. It doesn't seem like a story line worthy of the show or worthy of Dana Delaney's talents. This week Jesse Metcalfe returns as John, Gabby's one-time paramour.

That's all for today. I'm back on Friday with reviews of the season finales of "Army Wives" and "Drop Dead Diva" (how many times can they take Fred away from us?) I'll also have thoughts on "The Vampire Diaries," this week's familiar faces and quotes of the week and more. Have a question? Seen a familiar face? Want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for discussion? Write me at mailto:amytvgal@zap2it.comor follow me on Twitter. Have a great week. Talk to you on Friday.

The vampire detective returns but in a show without any bite

2009-10-02T16:11:45Z

Alex O'Loughlin is one of those actors who we've been waiting to have back on TV on a regular basis.

Even those of us who didn't love "Moonlight" (sorry, even with Jason Dohring, I never could quite get into the show) liked O'Loughlin. The man oozes charm and sincerity - a nice combination for any lead character.

It's too bad that it's "Three Rivers," premiering Sunday at 9 p.m. on CBS, is the show that is bringing him back to TV. As you may have heard, the original pilot was completely scrapped and reshot. But unfortunately the changes just took the show from being a not great show about transplant surgeons to a generic, fairly boring medical series.

O'Loughlin stars as Dr. Andy Yablonski, the premiere transplant surgeon at Three Rivers Hospital. Katherine Moenning ("The L Word") co-stars as Dr. Miranda Foster and Alfre Woodard plays chief of surgery Dr. Sophia Jordon. Nothing about Sunday's episode stands out. Even with the transplant angle, the stories seem exceedingly generic, overly familiar and melodramatic which is odd because transplant surgery could obviously be a fascinating topic. It was so easy to see what's coming. The minute Andy tells a husband he has a heart for his pregnant wife, you know something is going to go wrong - you'll even be able to predict exactly what is going to go wrong long before it happens. Even for viewers like us, who have seen a lot of medical dramas in our time, things should not be that predictable.

The other weird thing about the show is while Dr. Yablonski is mired in a transplant crisis, Dr. Foster is in a run-of-the-mill medical story line. I think the show would have been much better off to keep the focus on transplant surgery.

Of course, I'll watch a few more episodes - there's no denying O'Loughlin has star power. Maybe he'll be able to work magic on "Three Rivers" or maybe it will get better now that it has the stress of having to completely remake the pilot behind them. After you watch "Three Rivers," let me know what you think. Three stars.

Question of the Week

You know how some people (me included) positively adore John Noble's performance on "Fringe" while others find him annoying and affected? I'm beginning to think that Ty Burrell is eliciting that same type of divisive response for his performance on "Modern Family." I've been a fan of Burrell's ever since the CBS comedy "Out of Practice." I watched him on "Back to You" and was thrilled when he popped up on "Damages." I've been waiting for him to have a hit series - and I think "Modern Family" is it. His performance as clueless dad Phil is spot on. I think he's hilarious. I giggle every time I think about him explaining that "WTF" means "why the face?"

I've heard from some of you who think Burrell's performance is far too reminiscent of Michael on "The Office." While both directly address the camera, to me that's where the similarities end. Michael is totally incompetent and simultaneously needy and full of himself. Phil is more well-meaning and clueless. I'm loving his performance on "Modern Family." How about you?

Where Have I Seen Them Before?

Lesley and Robin recognized that the young Grace on "Cold Case" was played by Ashley Johnson. Johnson was Sharlee Cates on "Dirt" and Mel Gibson's daughter in "What Women Want," but to many of us she'll always be little Chrissy Seaver on "Growing Pains." Lesley also caught Sharif Atkins, Gallant on "ER" and Gary on "The 4400," as the hostage taker on "CSI: Miami." Monique Gabriela Curen, Detective Beaumont on "The Unusuals" (a show that so deserved a second season), was the receptionist who was shot.

Sam Page was the abusive client who refused to pay Lauren on "Melrose Place." He's currently playing Joan's husband Dr. Greg Harris on "Mad Men." He was also Casey on "Shark" and Jesse on "Point Pleasant."

Lindsay Sloane was Ted's repeat blind date on "How I Met Your Mother." I'll always remember Sloane as Marcy on the late, great satire "Grosse Pointe." She was also Valerie on "Sabrina, the Teenage Witch."

Faith Prince was Jane's mom on "Drop Dead Diva." She was Claudia on "Spin City" and Kelly on "Huff." Like "Diva" star Brooke Elliot, Prince has also starred in several Broadway productions.

Michelle recognized Linden Ashby as the doctor who treated Sarah Elizabeth on "Army Wives." He was Coop on "Melrose Place."Ashby's real life wife, Susan Walters, Christine on "Melrose Place" and Meg on "Point Pleasant," was the army wife Pamela ran into who told her Chase had gone to the shooting range. Michelle also remembered her as the woman whose name rhymed with a female body part on "Seinfeld." Perhaps Ashby and Walters have a thing about working together - they both appeared in the pilot of "Drop Dead Diva" as the couple that was divorcing. Remember, Jane represented Vicky Wellner, played by Walters.

Where Have I Seen Someone Who Looks Like Her Before?

Candace recognized that Makenzie Vega plays Grace Florrick, Alica's daughter on "The Good Wife." She's the younger sister of Alexa Vega, who currently stars as Ruby on the ABC Family series "Ruby & the Rockits." Alexa was also Carmen in all the "Spy Kids" movie.

Where Have We Seen That Before?

Laura and Amy were the first to recognized that Cappie and Evan were working for the Party Down catering company - as in the Starz series "Party Down" -- on "Greek." They even had the pink bow ties!

Quotes of the Week

"I am all of them, but none of them is me." Echo to Ballard on "Dollhouse."

"The scary part is of the two women you could marry, that's the stable one." Julie to Mike about Susan on "Desperate Housewives."

"After you, Dr. House." Scanlon to Allison who is walking with a cane on "Medium." Thanks to Karen for the quote.

"I admit that things are different since Grissom left." Catherine in the understatement of the year on "CSI."

"Put your nose down and pay attention to your work because there's not one thing that you've done here that I couldn't live without." Don to Peggy on "Mad Men." Wasn't that just so devastating?

"I'm not as easy to ignore as you thought, am I? That's because I ooze charm." Sylar to Parkman on "Heroes." Thanks to Mark for the quote.

"That was before I discovered 'The Biggest Loser' marathon on cable. I like to pretend they can see me eating." House to Wilson on "House."

"Excuse me, Meryl Streep could be Batman and be the right choice." Cameron on "Modern Family" when someone at play group suggests that Meryl Streep wasn't the right choice for "Mamma Mia." Thanks to Ritchie for the quote.

"But we were done, Tom, we were across the finish line. No more diapers. No more strained carrots. No more reading stupid 'Good Night, Moon.' And with Preston going to Europe we even had one moving out! We will never be done if we birth two every time one moves out. That's just math!" Lynette to Tom on "Desperate Housewives." Thanks to Daphne for the quote.

Exchanges of the Week

"They were blown off for another mixer and so stayed in for mud masks and a TV series about old people having old people sex." Rebecca to Casey and Ashleigh on "Greek."

"They were watching 'Private Practice?'" Casey's response.

**********************

"What's so special about this Bella girl? Edward so whipped." Damon to Caroline on "The Vampire Diaries."

"You gotta read the first book first. It won't make sense if you don't." Caroline to Damon.

"I miss Ann Rice. She was so on it?" Damon's response. Thanks to Sandy for the exchange.

That's all for today. I'll be back on Monday with a review of the new Lifetime series "Sherri," thoughts on "The Office" (Jim and Pam are going to the chapel and they're gonna get married), "Grey's Anatomy, "The Vampire Diaries" (are we still liking the show?) and more. Also coming next week, a review of the fourth season premiere of "Ugly Betty." Have a question? Seen a familiar face? Want to nominate a quote of the week or a topic for discussion? Write me at amytvgal@zap2it.com or follow me on Twitter. Have a great weekend. Talk to you on Monday.

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