Who Will You Ring In the New Year With?

For those of us who don’t go anywhere on New Year’s Eve, we rely on TV to relay the excitement of the New Year dawning.

And there are several choices for us to ring in 2011 with…

Of course, there’s the standby “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest” at 11:30 p.m. on ABC. Jenny McCarthy will join Dick and Ryan in Times Square and Fergie will host the Los Angeles pre-taped portions. Dick Clark’s Primetime New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest” will get you warmed up at 10 p.m. Among the performers are Jennifer Hudson, Willow Smith, Ne-Yo, Avril Lavigne, Drake, Jason Derulo, La Roux, Mike Posner, Natasha Bedingfield, Far East Movement and Train…

Carson Daly does the honors for NBC with “NBC’s New Year’s Eve with Carson Daly” at 10 p.m. (with a half-hour break for local news). Carson has some heavy hitters as Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj and My Chemical Romance are scheduled to perform. Carson is also scheduled to speak with Bono and The Edge about “Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark”…

But for me it’s a toss-up between the choices on Bravo and CNN. Bravo is giving us “Watch What Happens Live: Andy’s New Year’s Party” beginning at 10:30 p.m. Andy will be joined in the Bravo clubhouse by several Bravolebrities and there will be live performances by Kim Zolciak and Jenni Pulos. Plus, a wig drop at midnight. And no, I don’t know what that is either, but I want to find out…

Over on CNN, we welcome back the one and only Kathy Griffin. They said she was banned after she accidentally dropped the f-bomb on live TV last year. But CNN is desperately seeking buzz these days, so they’re welcoming Kathy back to co-host “CNN New Year’s Eve” with Anderson Cooper beginning at 11 p.m. I commend CNN for taking another chance because Kathy and Anderson are awesome together…

Should we really have to choose between Kathy and Andy? It’s a good thing I’ve got two VCRS…

Photo Credits: Craig Sjodin/ABC & Bravo

A Look at This Year's New Year's Marathons

New Year’s Day weekend means marathons. Here’s just a few that you’ll be able to enjoy this weekend…

USA is presenting two marathons this year. On New Year’s Eve, it’s the “Fun House Marathon” with episodes of “House” airing from 6 a.m. to 6 a.m. There will be an hour interruption at 9 a.m. with the Holiday Bowl Parade. On New Year’s Day, it’s the “Resolve to Watch Marathon” with “NCIS” airing from 6 a.m. to 4 a.m. There will be an hour interruption at 2 a.m. for the WWE…

Syfy will present two days of “The Twilight Zone” beginning New Year’s Eve at 8 a.m. and ending at 6 a.m. January 2nd…

ABC Family has a marathon of “America’s Funniest Home Videos” New Year’s Day from 7 a.m.-1 a.m…

TV Land will marathon six of the best “Hot In Cleveland” episodes of the season beginning with the pilot at 8 p.m. New Year’s Day. The episodes will be followed by the hour-long special, “Behind the Hotness,” at 11 p.m…

But for me, the most interesting marathons are on CMT. New Year’s Eve, it’s “The Dukes of Hazzard” from 1:30 p.m.-3 am. Then New Year’s Day, it’s select episodes from seasons one and two of “Dallas” from 2 p.m. to 3 a.m. Then, Sunday, January 2nd, it’s a marathon of “Green Acres” from 2 p.m. to Midnight…

Photo Credits: Art Streiber/CBS & CMT

CBS Makes Its Midseason Tweaks

January is the time when the networks haul out their mid-season schedules. For a network like NBC, it’s pretty much a new start, but for CBS, it’s just a few minor tweaks to an already solid schedule.

And I have to say, the tweaks are pretty good…

The first tweak will occur Wednesday, January 19th when “Blue Bloods” replaces “The Defenders” at 10 p.m. “Defenders” moves to Fridays at 8 p.m. beginning February 4th when “Medium” wraps up its run. And yes, that is bad news for “Defenders.”

“Bloods” will return to Fridays at 10 p.m. when “Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior” premieres Wednesday, February 16th.

Monday, February 21st will see the premiere of the new comedy, “Mad Love,” at 8:30 p.m. The show stars Judy Greer, Sarah Chalke and Jason Biggs. “Rules of Engagement” will move to Thursdays at 8:30 p.m., replacing “$#*! My Dad Says.”

Friday, April 1st, CBS will take “The Defenders” off the air and replace it with the new CIA drama, “Chaos.”

There will be a test on all of this later…

Photo Credit: Craig Blankenhorn/CBS

"A Christmas Story": A Moneymaking Machine

This year I watched “A Christmas Story” for the very first time…

It’s not going to replace “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” or the remake of “Miracle on 34th Street” in my Christmas movie pantheon, but I did think it was really cute.

Here’s a great article from “Variety” about the moneymaking machine that the movie has become. It’s incredible to think that a guy not at all associated with the movie has turned it into a career.

Photo Credit: Copyright Turner Broadcasting, Inc., a Time Warner Company. All Rights Reserved.

"Million Dollar Listing" Gets a New Agent

When Bravo’s “Million Dollar Listing” returns in February, it will be missing a familiar face…

Chad Rogers has left the show and will be replaced by Josh Altman. Josh Flagg and Madison Hildebrand are returning.

I like this show, but Chad could seriously get on my nerves with his constant grooming and his voice that made it sound like he was always reading cue cards. I’m not disappointed to see him gone and look forward to what the new guy will bring.

“Million Dollar Listing” premieres Tuesday, February 1st at 10 p.m. on Bravo…

Photo Credit: Isabella Vosmikova/Bravo

Catching Up With the SAG Awards

Let me play some catch-up by talking about the Screen Actors Guild nominations for TV. Here they are with some comments…

Female Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries:*
Winona Ryder, “When Love Is Not Enough: The Lois Wilson Story”
Claire Danes, “Temple Grandin”
Catherine O’Hara, “Temple Grandin”
Julia Ormond, “Temple Grandin”
Susan Sarandon, “You Don’t Know Jack”
*Note there are no supporting TV categories at the SAGs.

Male Actor in a Television Movie or Miniseries:
John Goodman, “You Don’t Know Jack”
Al Pacino, “You Don’t Know Jack”
Dennis Quaid, “The Special Relationship”
Edgar Ramirez, “Carlos”
Patrick Stewart, “MacBeth”

Ensemble in a Drama Series:*
“Boardwalk Empire”
“The Closer”
“Dexter”
“The Good Wife”
“Mad Men”
*Since the SAGs are all about the actors, this is their equivalent of a series award.

Male Actor in a Drama Series
Steve Buscemi, “Boardwalk Empire”
Bryan Cranston, “Breaking Bad”
Michael C. Hall, “Dexter”
Jon Hamm, “Mad Men”
Hugh Laurie, “House”

Female Actor in a Drama Series:
Glenn Close, “Damages”
Mariska Hargitay, “Law & Order: SVU”
Julianna Marguiles, “The Good Wife”
Elisabeth Moss, “Mad Men”
Kyra Sedgwick, “The Closer”

Ensemble in a Comedy Series:
“30 Rock”
“Glee”
“Hot In Cleveland”*
“The Office”
“Modern Family”
*Kudos to the Guild for acknowledging “Cleveland.” I don’t think it’s the best traditional comedy, but it’s nice to see a traditional comedy on the list. I’m actually rooting for it.

Male Actor in a Comedy Series:
Ed O’Neill, “Modern Family”
Ty Burrell, “Modern Family”
Alec Baldwin, “30 Rock”
Chris Colfer, “Glee”
Steve Carell, “The Office”

Female Actor in a Comedy Series:
Edie Falco, “Nurse Jackie”
Tina Fey, “30 Rock”
Jane Lynch, “Glee”
Sofia Vergara, “Modern Family”
Betty White, “Hot In Cleveland”*
*Kudos to the Guild for acknowledging the outstanding year Betty White had. Since this is actors voting for actors, is there any way she can lose this? I mean, would you vote against her?

The SAG Awards will air January 30th on both TNT and TBS.

Photo Credits: Andrew Eccles/TNT and Patrick Ecclesine/FOX

My Thoughts on Larry King's Goodbye

I know I’m a little late with this, but I felt like I should say something…

Larry King said goodbye as the host of “Larry King Live” December 16th. I thought the hour was a great way to say goodbye to a legend and a show that defined a network for decades.

But I think he illustrated just how out of touch he has become during the finale when he admitted that the first time he met Ryan Seacrest he didn’t know who he was and had to be told by his wife.

A man whose job is to interview newsmakers and he doesn’t know the host of the biggest TV show on the planet?

“Saturday Night Live” further illustrated that point with a sketch the following night. You can see it here.

Catch Jennifer Love Hewitt's Golden Globe Nominated Performance This Weekend

Lifetime is celebrating Jennifer Love Hewitt’s Golden Globe nomination with an encore presentation of the movie that earned it for her.

Lifetime will air “The Client List” Sunday, January 2nd at 7 p.m. Inspired by a true story, the movie tells the story of a woman who ends up in the middle of a prostitution ring when she and her husband lose their jobs.

Hewitt is nominated for Best Performance by an Actress in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television.

Photo Credit: Jack Rowand/Lifetime

The New "Survivor" Twist

When “Survivor” returns in February, there’s going to be a new twist…

“Survivor: Redemption Island,” which was filmed in Nicaragua, will give contestants voted out a second chance—if they can beat out everyone else vying for a second chance.

Basically, when the first contestant’s torch is extinguished, he or she is not out of it. They’ll go to Redemption Island, where they will rough it just like everyone else. When the next person joins them, there will be a contest with the loser going home. At a certain point the person who survives will be allowed to reenter the game.

Because each episode will feature a Redemption Island duel, the format of the show will have to change slightly. There will most likely be just one combined reward/immunity challenge.

“Survivor: Redemption Island” premieres Wednesday, February 16, 2011.

Photo Credit: CBS

Merry Christmas to You and the Griswolds in Your Neighborhood!

I have to admit I was a little slow to catch the Christmas spirit this year. For a number of reasons, it just didn’t feel like the holidays.

It’s the first year I can ever remember feeling that way. But then, I did spend five years living next to the best holiday season kickoff ever.

Like clockwork, the weekend after Thanksgiving, I would lie in bed and listen to the sound of my neighbors putting up Christmas lights all around their house. And when I say around the house, I mean it. They wrapped those lights all the way around—even over windows. And no surprise, everyone in town called them the Griswolds, like from “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”

Even though I often laughed at the display, it always filled me with the Christmas spirit. And now that they no longer decorate their home, I miss seeing that neon pink baby Jesus terribly. But I always think of them every year when I watch “Vacation.”

I know many of you have Griswolds in your neighborhood, so my advice is to enjoy them while you can and be sure to let some of their enthusiasm rub off on you this holiday season.

You can enjoy the fictional Griswolds Christmas Eve at 8 p.m. and Christmas Day at 8 a.m. on TV Land.

If the Parker family is who you’d rather spend your Christmas with, you’ll be happy to know that TBS is once again running its 24-hour marathon of “A Christmas Story” beginning Friday at 8 p.m.

And on Christmas Day, when you’re finished unwrapping all of the presents and have nothing left to talk about, you can enjoy TV Land’s “11th Annual Merry-Thon” featuring Christmas episodes of your favorite comedies like “Roseanne,” “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Everybody Loves Raymond.” The marathon will be interrupted at 5 p.m. by an airing of the movie “Independence Day.” I guess that’s because nothing says Christmas like watching aliens destroy the world.

But however you spend your holiday, I hope it’s a happy and safe one. Merry Christmas, everyone!

"Vacation" photo courtesy of Warner Home Video. "National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Ultimate Collector’s Edition" is offered in both Blu-ray™ and DVD. "Andy Griffith Show" photo courtesy of TV Land.

This Week's Column: My Five Favorite Christmas TV Episodes

This week’s “Stay Tuned” column lists my five favorite Christmas TV moments.

Here’s some video for each of my choices…

5) “The Andy Griffith Show”: “A Christmas Story”
You can find the episode in three parts on YouTube:

Part One

Part Two

Part Three

4) (Tie) “Animaniacs”: “A Christmas Plotz/Little Drummer Warners”
Here is the heart of the “Drummer” portion of the show. It still carries a lot of meaning even after all these years.



"The O.C.": "The Best Chrismakkuh Ever"
Unfortunately, TheWB.com took down the complete episode sometime this week (Where is their Chrismakkuh spirit?) But I did find this YouTube video featuring moments from the episode, as well as the season two Chrismakkuh episode. If you've never seen the whole episode, the hour is truly "The O.C." at its very finest. Man, do I miss that show...



3) “Friends”: “The One With the Holiday Armadillo”
Here’s a YouTube edit of the episode, featuring only the Armadillo moments.

2) “Everybody Loves Raymond”: “The Toaster”
You can see my favorite moment from this episode in this montage of Frank moments. It’s not only hilarious because of the line, but also because you can clearly see Doris Roberts trying to hold it together.

And here’s a video of Ray Romano and show creator Phil Rosenthal discussing the real story behind the episode.



1) “The Big Bang Theory”: “The Bath Item Gift Hypothesis”
Here’s a link to the YouTube video of the big scene when Penny gives Sheldon her gift.

Do you have a favorite TV Christmas moment? Feel free to share it with me by posting a comment, sending an e-mail to ahendersonbentley@hotmail.com, following me on Twitter at @angelahbentley or liking me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/angelahbentley.

Last Minute Help for the Holidays #1: Star Wars and Dora Ideas for Kids...and Adults

There are only a few more shopping days left until Christmas. And I’m here to help with some last minute ideas…

Let’s start with some ideas for kids…

There have been many different kinds of “Star Wars” action figures over the years, but none as special as the very first ones. And now they’re back…

This year, Hasbro has introduced the “Star Wars” Vintage Collection. The packaging for each figure looks exactly like the old original Kenner packaging complete with the Kenner logo. Even the figures for the newer movies get the retro look most of them never had.

It’s a great way to introduce new young fans to the classic toys. And I know a lot of adults who will enjoy them as well…

Books are always a great gift and here’s a unique one for “Dora the Explorer” fans,,,

Dora teams up with Shakira for World School Day in “World School Day Adventure,” a story written by Shakira. Dora and Boots travel the world to make sure each school has all the supplies it needs for the celebration.

The book, which is beautifully illustrated, not only teaches about different kinds of schools in different countries, it also teaches the importance of sharing and helping others. It’s a wonderful gift for Dora fans that kids and parents can enjoy together.

“World School Day Adventure” is available in both English and Spanish versions.

Photo Credits: Hasbro and Nickelodeon

"Family Guy: It's a Trap!" Review: Hilarious Fun For All Us Geeks

It’s not normal for a show to actually introduce itself by telling viewers to lower their expectations. But then nothing about “Family Guy” has ever been normal…

When “Family Guy: It’s a Trap!” the last in the show’s “Star Wars” spoofs begins, that’s exactly what the scroll on the screen encourages us to do. The introduction tells us that no one associated with the show wanted to do a third “Star” movie and FOX made them do it. And in the DVD commentary, creator Seth MacFarlane says that’s totally true.

But since we’re talking about MacFarlane here, it’s hard to tell whether it’s true or not. I’m just glad a third one was made because things wouldn’t have been the same without it…

Now, I will admit that I don’t think this one is as funny as the other two. And there are a few more inappropriate jokes than normal (including one about Leia in the gold bikini that will have “Star Wars” fans scratching their heads). But the movie is still hilarious as you will go back and forth between laughing out loud and saying out loud, “That’s not funny.”

As in “Blue Harvest” and “Something Something Dark Side,” each of the “Family” characters takes a role from the movie with the Griffins—Chris (Luke), Peter (Han), Lois (Leia), Stewie (Darth Vader) and Brian (Chewbacca)—taking on the major roles (Since there are very few female characters in “Wars,” Meg is once again reduced to playing a monster.). You’ll also see characters from “American Dad” and “The Cleveland Show” taking part to fill in the roles.

“Trap” is not as much of a scene-by-scene recreation as “Harvest” or “Dark Side,” but it hits all of the movie’s major parts. The real difference between this one and the others is that it takes more shots at the actual movie. Jabba the Hutt’s gibberish, the method used to destroy the Death Star and even Yoda’s death scene all get brought down to size. And, no surprise, the Ewoks take a lot of hits (Am I the only “Star Wars” fan that liked them?).

But my favorite target of “Trap” is George Lucas himself as several shots are taken at changes made for the special edition. And if I’m not mistaken, the movie even uses the original Ewok song for the ending that Lucas actually changed, only proving that Lucas should have left well enough alone.

Yes, “Trap” is inappropriate and sometimes just downright wrong. But that doesn’t make it any less hilarious. If you’re a “Family Guy” fan, you must own this one. And if you’re a “Star Wars” fan who hates the Ewoks, or Lucas’ changes or any other part of “Jedi,” you’ll want to see this one as well. It will make you feel like there’s someone out there who understands you…

The DVD also has some pretty funny extras. There’s a voice mail message from Darth Vader to Luke, a behind-the-scenes look at the drawing process and a commentary with the writers, director and creator Seth MacFarlane. But my favorite extra is “Star Wars Trivial Pursuit: The Ultimate Championship,” which shows an actual game of “Star Wars Trivial Pursuit” between the four writers and producers. It’s fun because you can actually play along with them. And I actually did pretty well.

Which only proves what I already knew—I am a geek. And maybe that’s why I really love “Trap.” It’s something created just for us by people just like us—big old geeks.

“Family Guy: It’s a Trap!” is available in stores and online Tuesday, December 21st. Also hitting stores tomorrow is “Laugh It Up Fuzzball: The Family Guy Trilogy.”

Photo Credit: Fox Home Entertainment

Today's Column: All About "V"

Today's "Stay Tuned" column in the "Herald-Dispatch" is all about "V."

But since it didn't run in the paper, here is the picture that goes with it.

Awesome, isn't it?

You can read the column here.

Photo Credit: Jeff Petry/ABC

A Final Word About Last Week's "Top Chef All-Stars"

So before tonight’s new episode of “Top Chef All-Stars,” let me say a final word about last week’s doozy of an episode…

Jen did not get eliminated because she talked back, but talking back did help her get eliminated.

Here’s what I mean…

By so vehemently defending a dish the judges thought was bad, Jen made herself look clueless as a chef. So when choosing between a chef that made a bad dish she thought was really great and a chef that messed up his dish and knew it (Tre), they had to go with the first one.

And let’s face it. If Jen hadn’t mounted such a stern defense and told them that not having Jamie hurt the dish, she would’ve been safe. I believe the judges would’ve taken her disadvantage into consideration.

So what happened? Why did Jen snap? I honestly have no idea. And it’s one thing to defend your dish, but to call the judges stupid?

It was pretty surprising behavior from someone who had never exhibited it. The judges were pretty stunned as well. Jen said, “Welcome to Jen All-Stars,” but I have to think there was something else at play.

I encourage you to visit BravoTV.com and read the judges’ blogs about their decisions. You can also watch a video from Jen’s boss, Eric Ripert, who shares his thoughts on how he would’ve voted.

There are now 16 cheftestants left and two are going home tonight. And Jen’s elimination proves no one is safe.

“Top Chef All-Stars” airs tonight at 10 on Bravo…

Photo Credit Rene Cervantes/Bravo

Congratulations to Andy Cohen!

Congratulations to the one and only Andy Cohen, who has been rewarded with a promotion from Bravo.

The network announced today that Andy has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Original Programming and Development. Andy was previously Senior Vice President, Original Programming and Development.

This means Andy will continue to oversee Bravo’s development and production slate. He will also continue as host and executive producer of “Watch What Happens: Live,” which is enjoying season highs as of late, and continue to host Bravo reunion specials. He also will continue to write “Andy’s Blog” at BravoTV.com.

Photo Credit: Bravo

The Golden Globes Get Eclectic

The Golden Globes nominations were announced today and although the movie categories get the most attention, there are TV nods too. And as usual, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association has served up a pretty eclectic bunch.

Here’s a look…
Best Actress in a TV series, comedy
Toni Collette, “United States of Tara”
Edie Falco, “Nurse Jackie”
Tina Fey, “30 Rock”
Laura Linney, “The Big C”
Lea Michele, “Glee”

Best Actor, TV series comedy
Alec Baldwin, “30 Rock”
Steve Carell, “The Office”
Thomas Jane, “Hung”
Matthew Morrison, “Glee”
Jim Parsons, “The Big Bang Theory”

Best Actress in a TV series, drama
Julianna Margulies, “The Good Wife”
Elisabeth Moss, “Mad Men”
Piper Perabo, “Covert Affairs”*
Katey Sagal, “Sons of Anarchy”
Kyra Sedgwick, “The Closer”
*The Golden Globes are known for giving out of left field newcomers some love, which I guess explains the nod for Perabo.

Best Actor in a TV series, drama
Steve Buscemi, “Boardwalk Empire”
Bryan Cranston, “Breaking Bad”
Michael C. Hall, “Dexter”
Jon Hamm, “Mad Men”
Hugh Laurie , “House”

Best Actress in a mini-series or TV movie
Hayley Atwell, “Pillars of the Earth”
Claire Danes, “Temple Grandin”
Judi Dench, “Return to Cranford”
Romola Garai, “Emma”
Jennifer Love Hewitt, “The Client List”*
*Kudos to Lifetime for getting some Golden Globe love.

Best Actor in a mini-series or TV movie
Idris Elba, Luther
Ian McShane, Pillars of the Earth
Al Pacino, You Don't Know Jack
Dennis Quaid, The Speicla Relationship
Edgar Ramirez, Carlos

Best Supporting Actress in a series, mini-series or TV movie
Hope Davis, “The Special Relationship”
Jane Lynch, “Glee”
Kelly MacDonald, “Boardwalk Empire”
Julia Stiles, “Dexter”
Sofia Vergara, “Modern Family”

Best Supporting Actor in a series, mini-series, or TV movie*
Scott Caan, “Hawaii Five-0”
Chris Colfer, “Glee”
Chris Noth, “The Good Wife”
Eric Stonestreet, “Modern Family”
David Strathairn, “Temple Grandin”
*You can’t really get more eclectic than this group as a result of the Golden Globes not separating the supporting categories. It’s nice to see Caan get some acknowledgment for being one of the few breakout stars of the new season. Notice, however, the absence of Neil Patrick Harris.

Best TV movie or mini-series
“Carlos”
“The Pacific”
“Pillars of the Earth”
“Temple Grandin”
“You Don't Know Jack”

Best TV Series, comedy
“30 Rock”
“The Big Bang Theory”
“The Big C”
“Glee”
“Modern Family”
“Nurse Jackie”

Best TV series, drama
“Broadwalk Empire”
“Dexter”
“The Good Wife”
“Mad Men”
“The Walking Dead”*
*Kudos to the HFPA for acknowledging the only real breakout hit of the year. I think I’m the only person who doesn’t watch.

Find Out Why It's So "Hot In Cleveland"

You can’t blame TV Land for wanting to keep some momentum going with their sitcom, “Hot in Cleveland.”

Because personally, I think they’ve got something really special going on here. And tonight’s one-hour special does nothing to convince me otherwise…

“Hot in Cleveland: Behind the Hotness” takes a look back at the show’s first season by showing you each character’s best moments. We also see all of the guest stars like Carl Reiner, Tim Conway and Hal Linden.

But more than that, we see that this show stars four women—Valerie Bertinelli, Wendie Malick, Jane Leeves and Betty White—who genuinely like each other and have a great time together. That’s obvious during the bloopers segment, which shows some really funny moments.

The show is a great recap, but it’s also an excellent introduction for anyone who has never watched the show. If you’ve never seen it, it’s about three women who are all at a crossroads in their lives. On the way to a vacation in Paris, they discover a place where they are appreciated for who they are—Cleveland. You could get tripped up by the somewhat flimsy premise, but then you’d miss the breezy comedy between four sitcom veterans.

I don’t think there’s any doubt that people tuned in to see Betty White. But what they found was a funny traditional sitcom. There’s nothing fancy about “Hot,” but sometimes a show doesn’t need a high concept to be worth watching.

And this special proves that point by showing us a small glimpse of what’s coming ahead for season two. It looks like things are going to get even hotter in Cleveland…

“Hot In Cleveland: Behind the Hotness” airs tonight (Sunday, December 12th) at 9 p.m. on TV Land…

Photo Credit: TV Land

A Local Stylist to the Stars Takes Over Sunday Night

Sunday night, two different cable networks will premiere two brand new movies.

But although the movies are on different networks, they have one local connection in common—hair stylist Richard Boggs.

Boggs was born in Ashland and graduated from Huntington School of Beauty Culture. But he now lives in Atlanta where he has worked on a number of movies and television shows.

Those include the two that will premiere Sunday night—ABC Family’s “Christmas Cupid” starring Chad Michael Murray and Christina Milian and Lifetime’s “Marry Me” starring Lucy Liu.

“Christmas Cupid” premieres Sunday, December 12th at 8 p.m. on ABC Family, with an encore at 10 p.m. “Marry Me” airs in two parts Sunday, December 12th at 9 p.m. and Monday, December 13th at 9 p.m. on Lifetime.

And you can read more about Richard in an upcoming issue of “The Herald-Dispatch”…

Photo courtesy of Richard Boggs

The Truth About the Ed O'Neill-Jane Lynch Feud

You’ve no doubt heard the story that Ed O’Neill (“Modern Family”) is feuding with Jane Lynch because he said she didn’t deserve her Emmy for playing Sue on “Glee.” But I’m guessing—since apologies are not as juicy—that you didn’t hear the rest of the story…

“TV Guide Canada” apologized to O’Neill for misquoting him in its story that said O’Neill didn’t think Lynch should have gotten the Emmy.

In a statement issued to “Entertainment Weekly,” O’Neill said “Of course I root for my dear friends Sofia Vergara and Julie Bowen (and all of my colleagues on our show) at Emmy time, but I absolutely never said, nor do I believe that Jane—whom I think is an enormous talent—was undeserving of the award. I reached out to her yesterday to ensure she knew I'd been misquoted but I wanted to clear this up publicly as well.”

You can read the rest of the story here. I'm glad this has been cleared up because O'Neill was starting to look like a jerk...

"The Biggest Loser" Loses a Fave

“The Biggest Loser” is losing one of its most recognizable faces…

Jillian Michaels announced on her Twitter page: “Season 11 of Biggest Loser will be my last J have to finish out my contract.” She also tweeted that her replacement had already been hired and that she would be helping to launch her in season 11.”

As for why Jillian is leaving, she tweeted to a fan that she wanted to take a year off TV and “focus on becoming a mommy and doing more charity work.”

Reports are that the new trainer will be introduced during next week’s season finale…

Photo Credit: Andrew Southam/NBC

"The Closer" Gets Ready to Say Goodbye

One of the best female characters in the history of TV is saying goodbye next year…

TNT announced Friday that “The Closer” will wrap up its run in 2011 after seven seasons. According to the press release, the decision was made by the show’s star, Kyra Sedgwick.

In the release, Sedgwick said, “I cannot fathom how difficult it will be to say goodbye to the incredible family we’ve created on ‘The Closer.’ I will always be grateful to James Duff for his love and friendship, as well as for creating such a rich and complex character who I have loved living with year after year. Mike, Greer, Rick and all of our outstanding cast and crew are forever in my heart. I want to thank TNT and Warner Bros. Television, as well as the incredible fans of ‘The Closer,’ for all of their unwavering support over the last seven years.”

During the final season, the show will air its 100th episode. Production of the 15-episode season will begin in the spring.

Photo Credit: Andrew Eccles/TNT

The CW Asks: Do You Believe In Heroes?

The CW is asking if you believe in heroes…

The question is part of a new promotion for the final season of “Smallville” called the “Smallville: Believe in Heroes Challenge.”

In the February 4th episode called “Beacon,” Clark’s friends will assure him that he is making a difference as The Blur. To illustrate their point, they will show him videos from the Internet in which people say what The Blur means to them and what it means to be a hero.

Until Monday, December 20th at 11:00 a.m. PT, fans can submit their own video testimonial by uploading videos to the show’s website. “Smallville” producers and the CWTV.com team will review the videos and choose some of them for use in the episode. Additional videos will be selected to be posted to CWTV.com after the episode airs.

For more information, visit the website at http://www.cwtv.com/smallville...

Photo Credit: James White/The CW

The Hoff Gets Pulled Off the Air

It’s been a rough year for The Hoff…

First, he got voted off early on "Dancing With the Stars." Now, A&E has already pulled his reality show, “The Hasselfhoffs,” off the air after only two episodes. Two episodes that aired on the same night, no less.

If you missed it—and judging from the ratings, you most likely did—the show followed The Hoff as he helped his daughters in their entertainment careers. There are eight unaired episodes remaining. No word on what will happen to them.

I think I would have given it at least another week. At least so Joel McHale could have had some good clips for “The Soup”…

Meanwhile, EW.com is reporting that Hasselhoff is in talks to be a judge on “Britain’s Got Talent,” possibly replacing Simon Cowell…

Photo Credit: Ian White/Comedy Central

Has "Love Bites" Already Been Bitten?

It’s never a good sign when a show has its episode order cut. But it’s an even worse sign when a show has its episode order cut before it even airs…

That’s the case for the NBC show, “Love Bites.” “The Hollywood Reporter” reports that the order has been cut from 13 to 9 episodes.

The article says that the reason was to make room for other midseason shows, but I wouldn’t be so sure…

According to NBC, “Bites” is “an hour-long romantic comedy anthology series featuring three, loosely-connected, modern stories of love, sex, marriage and dating. Each of the multiple vignettes will involve an array of talented guest stars every week and will illuminate the theme of love with a fresh, irreverent spin.”

It stars Becki Newton, Greg Grunberg and Constance Zimmer. No premiere date has been set…

"America's Most Wanted" Breaks Another Case

Tonight, “America’s Most Wanted” takes a closer look at the Ronni Chasen case.

It was a tip from an anonymous “AMW” viewer that led police to interview Harold Martin Smith, who later killed himself when approached by police. Earlier this week, the police confirmed the gun he used in his suicide matches the gun used in the Chasen murder.

You can also learn more at www.amw.com.

“America’s Most Wanted” airs Saturday, December 11th at 9 p.m. on FOX…

Spike TV Names a Surprise Video Game Awards Host

Saturday, Spike TV will air its annual Video Game Awards. Since Spike prides itself in being the macho network, I was a little surprised at who will be hosting the awards this year…

None other than NPH—Neil Patrick Harris.

Now, I adore NPH and he’s a fantastic host. It’s just that when I hear Spike TV Video Game Awards, his is not the first name that comes to mind
In case you’re wondering the connection, NPH did voice Amazing Spider-Man in the hottest superhero game of the year, “Spider-Man Shattered Dimensions.”

Also scheduled to appear are Dane Cook, Chris Hemsworth (the “Thor: God of Thunder” game), Tony Hawk and cast members from “It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia.”
The show will also feature 13 world premieres of games scheduled to release in 2011 and beyond.

The Video Game Awards air live on Spike TV Saturday, December 11th at 8 p.m…

Photo Credit: Eric McCandless/FOX

Are You As Big a "24" Fan As These Guys?

I am a huge “24” fan, but not even I could do this…

Three men set a Guinness World Record Monday for the longest continuous TV-watching period as part of a “24” marathon event to coincide with the release of the complete series on DVD next week.

The time? 86 hours, six minutes and 41 seconds. Kevin Coon, Farris Hodo and Victor Lopez each won $10,000 as the remaining three of a group of 100 that began watching Thursday night at the Hollywood and Highland Center in Hollywood. 49 had dropped out by Friday afternoon, but still received copies of the complete series.

The real question is how did those guys get through Season 6? I barely made it through that and I was only watching once a week…

The complete series DVD set, as well as the final season on DVD, hit stores December 14th.

No New Year's Plans? Then Party With Andy Cohen!

Haven’t made your New Year’s Eve plans yet? Let me see if I can help you out…

Bravo announced yesterday that Andy Cohen will host the first ever Bravo New Year’s Eve party Friday, December 31st beginning at 10:30 p.m.

Andy’s guests will include Sandra Bernhard, various “Housewives,” Jeff Lewis, Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy McMillan the leader of “The rent is too [darn] high” party. There will also be live performances from Jay Sean, Jenni Pulos (“Flipping Out”) and Kim Zolciak.

Plus, TV’s first ever wig drop will happen at Midnight.

The New Year’s Eve Special comes on the heels of “Watch What Happens Live” airing five consecutive nights next week at 11 p.m. with guests Anderson Cooper, Diane Von Furstenberg, Amy Sedaris, Denise Richards and Tom Colicchio.

ABC Sets the Date for Matthew Perry's Return to TV

ABC has announced the date for Matthew Perry’s return to series television…

His new comedy, “Mr. Sunshine” will premiere Wednesday, February 9th at 9:30 p.m. for a nine-week run, filling in for “Cougar Town.”

I am thrilled that Perry is coming back to TV, but couldn’t ABC have thrown us “Friends” fans a bone and put “Cougar” and “Sunshine” back to back?

Another new ABC comedy, “Happy Endings” starring Elisha Cuthbert, will premiere Wednesday, April 13th at 10 p.m., followed by fan favorite episodes of “Modern Family,” giving ABC a three-comedy block on Wednesdays, like NBC will have on Thursdays.

The "Dora the Explorer" Lawsuit Gets Settled

Caitlin Sanchez, the former voice of "Dora the Explorer" has settled her lawsuit with Nickelodeon over claims that the network forced her to sign an unfair contract.

You can get all the details here.

Having talked to Catilin, and knowing how much she loved playing Dora, I’m glad to see this get worked out. I wish her nothing but the best as she moves on to other roles…

Is the "Chase" Coming to an End?

I think the chase may soon be coming to an end…

NBC has reduced the episode order for “Chase” from 22 to 18, according to “The Hollywood Reporter.”

As if that wasn’t bad enough, “Chase” is poised to take on “American Idol” when it moves to Wednesdays at 9 p.m. beginning on January 12th.

"All-Star Superman" Gets Set to Take Flight

DC Comics/Warner Home Video has announced the next in their series of DC Universe original animated movies. The classic story getting the DVD treatment this time is Grant Morrison’s “All-Star Superman.”

James Denton (“Desperate Housewives”) will voice Superman, with Christina Hendricks (“Mad Men”) as Lois Lane, Anthony LaPaglia (“Without a Trace”) as Lex Luthor, Ed Asner as Perry White, Frances Conroy (“Six Feet Under”) as Ma Kent and Matthew Gray Gubler (“Criminal Minds”) as Jimmy Olsen.

In the story, based on the Eisner Award-winning DC Comics series/graphic novel, Superman rescues an ill-fated mission to the sun, but in the process is oversaturated by radiation, accelerating his cell degeneration. Knowing his end is near, Superman finally tells Lois the truth, confronts Lex, and does whatever he can to ensure Earth is safe when he’s gone.

The 2-Disc Special Edition of the DVD will feature a sneak peek at the next DC Universe movie, “Green Lantern: Emerald Knights.” It will also have a featurette looking at Superman now and two episodes from “Superman: The Animated Series.” The Blu-Ray combo pack adds a conversation with Grant Morrison, audio commentary from producer/director Bruce Timm and Grant Morrison and a digital comic book.

“All-Star Superman” hits stores February 22, 2011.

Photo Credit: DC Comics

TV Land Greenlights Fran Drescher Pilot

I don’t always report on pilot news, because there’s no guarantees about which ones will see the light of day, but this one totally intrigued me…

TV Land has announced that it has given a cast-contingent greenlight to a new pilot from Fran Drescher and Peter Marc Jacobsen, the team behind “The Nanny,” called “Happily Divorced.”

“Divorced” centers on how Drescher deals with dating after finding out her husband is gay as she juggles her relationships with her current boyfriend and her ex-husband.

The kicker here is that the show is based on Drescher’s real life.

Drescher and Jacobsen were high school sweethearts (thus the title card at the end of “The Nanny”) who married in 1978. They divorced in 1999. In June, Drescher admitted Jacobsen was gay.

I’m hoping there’s a part for Drescher’s former “Nanny” co-star, Charles Shaughnessy, somewhere…

Some Exciting News for "Burn Notice" Fans

“Burn Notice” fans got some pretty big news last week as USA announced a two-hour prequel to the show will begin shooting in January.

The prequel will star Bruce Campbell as his “Burn” character Sam Axe. Jeffrey Donovan, the show’s star, will direct the movie.

Here is the description from the USA press release:

“The prequel, set in late 2005, begins after a faction of Columbian rebels makes trouble for the locally stationed military platoon, with Lieutenant Commander Sam Axe (Campbell) being sent down to advise. As the mission unfolds, Sam begins to uncover the dark secrets of the area, learning the truth about sacrifice, deception, and ultimately what’s worth fighting for.”

The movie is scheduled to air in Spring 2011.

"A Christmas Story" Hits the Stage

TBS will once again this year be giving us our “A Christmas Story” fix with a 24-hour marathon beginning Christmas Eve at 8 p.m.

But before that happens, lucky fans in Seattle will be able to see the movie in a whole new way—as a musical.

“A Christmas Story: The Musical!” will run December 9th through the 30th at Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theatre. The show includes an original score from Broadway composing duo, Benj Paske and Justin Paul.

The show’s executive producer is none other than Peter Billingsley, who played Ralphie Parker in the movie. Billingsley has made a pretty good career for himself behind the camera, producing the films, “The Break Up” and “Four Christmases.” He also directed “Couples Retreat.”

Be sure to click on this link to see the original story from “The Hollywood Reporter” and to see a picture of what Billingsley looks like now.

TV Land Goes "Behind the Hotness"

TV Land—hoping to keep the buzz alive during its hiatus—will air a “Hot in Cleveland” special entitled “Behind the Hotness” Sunday, December 12th at 9 p.m.

The special will show behind-the-scenes moments including bloopers and new cast interviews. Plus, we’ll get a sneak peek of the second season, which premieres Wednesday, January 10th at 9 p.m.

By the way, season one of “Hot” will be available on DVD January 11th.

Harry Smith Teaches Us a Lesson in Class

Last week, one of the truly good guys got the boot at CBS…

Harry Smith, along with Maggie Rodriguez and Dave Price were fired from “The Early Show” in yet another attempt to revamp the third place morning show.

Smith wasn’t left completely unemployed, however. He’ll become the permanent CBS substitute anchor, subbing for Katie Couric on “The CBS Evening News,” Charles Osgood on “CBS This Morning” and Bob Schieffer on “Face the Nation.” Rumors are swirling that he might even replace Katie Couric when her contract runs out.

Here is an interview Smith did with “The New York Times,” which gives us all a great example of how to stay classy in the face of diversity…

"Dexter" Renewed for Sixth Season

Let the mayhem continue!

“The Hollywood Reporter” reports that Showtime has renewed “Dexter” for a sixth season. Production will begin next spring.

David Nevins, Showtime’s president of entertainment, called it “the easiest decision I’ve made since I got to Showtime.”

"Top Chef All-Stars" Is My Fave in Trouble?

It was really hard for me to say what I wanted to last week about “Top Chef All-Stars” without giving anything away.

So now, let me say it. I think my guy Blais is in serious trouble…

What has me so concerned? The words of Tom Colicchio and Anthony Bourdain…

Before Thanksgiving, Tom and Anthony did a conference call with reporters about the season. Of course, they had to be very careful about what they said, but I think they dropped some major clues…

First, Anthony said, “There are a lot of surprises. Surprisingly, there were some talented people that fell.”

Then, when a reporter from Atlanta asked specifically about Blais, Anthony said that based on his previous season only, “It is clear this guy’s enormously talented.” Tom admitted that Blais should have won his season, and then added, “He’s been doing burgers for the last couple of years. So it could be a handicap.”

Then toward the end of the call, Tom said this: “We are as objective as possible. We focus on this food and this food only. There were times we felt like, ‘I can’t believe this person is going home.’”

See what I mean?

Add to that Blais’ issue with time in the premiere and his lack of appearances in the previews of the season, and I think he’ll be gone in a matter of weeks. That won’t stop me from watching the show, but it will disappoint me…

However, if I’m wrong, I’ll be the first to admit it. I, of course, hope that I am…

So besides shaking my confidence in my all-time fave, what else did the dynamic duo of Tom and Tony have to say? Seriously, these two should have their own show…

On how the contestants have changed:
Tom: “Dale [Talde] has matured a lot since Chicago. Spike has done a lot. They all seem to have matured a lot. Once you get the chance to see yourself, you kind of rein it in yourself.”

On why Anthony can’t do a whole season:
Anthony: “I’m a huge fan of the show. In a perfect world, I’d be there all the time. It’s just a matter of logistics.”

On who they’d like to hang out and have a beer with:
Tom: “Anthony.”
Anthony: “I find Fabio very loveable.”

On the line-up of contestants:
Tom: “We’re not involved in casting. We have a great lineup. It would have been great to have Bryan Voltaggio [“TV Guide” reports he turned the show down, as did Stefan Richter of season five.].”
Anthony: “I was enjoying this season as a ‘Top Chef’ fanboy. I was really pleased with the lineup.”

On judging the contestants now that they know them:
Tom: “It made it very difficult to judge them. It’s much easier when you don’t know them. The judging is more constructive [this season].”
Anthony: “We have higher expectations maybe. It makes you a little more passionate about strengths and weaknesses.”

On judging in general:
Anthony: (Discussing his season four appearance, when he helped send Dale Talde packing) “I thought Dale was an excellent competitor that year. Seeing talented people do something so inexplicably bad is fascinating. At the end, it’s all about the food. We only see the food really,”
Tom: “We’re not privy to what goes on behind the scenes.”
Anthony: “You live and die by what you put on the plate this week.”

On this year’s contestants as a whole:
Tom: “Like any all-star game, you’re playing with the best of the best. You want your competition to think highly of you as well. That’s as important as winning the show—respect from your peers.”
Anthony: “They’ve been toughened up by the process. If I wasn’t on the show, I’d enjoy watching it…It’s a real attempt to get New York right this time.”

On Fabio:
Anthony: “He’s an enormously likeable guy, very charming. If I’m bitter about anything in my life, it’s that I’m not Italian-American.”

On whether the show has changed the food world:
Tom: “I think it’s made people really aware of the creative process. I still think Americans are still very conservative when it comes to food. The barriers are coming down.”

Finally, Anthony revealed why he came off so nice in his only judging appearance on “Top Chef D.C.”: “The most perverted thing I could do was make Eric Ripert the bad guy.” Then he added, “I’m trying to be cuddlier.”

I hope for all of our sake’s he doesn’t mean that…

“Top Chef All-Stars” airs Wednesday, December 8th at 10 p.m. on Bravo, with special guests Joe Jonas and guest judge Katie Lee.

Photo Credits: Bravo and David Giesbrecht/Bravo

Katie Lee Returns to "Top Chef"

This week’s “Top Chef All-Stars” will welcome back a face familiar to both “Top Chef” fans and to the Tri-State.

Milton’s own Katie Lee, who hosted season one of “Top Chef,” is returning this week as a guest judge.

In this week’s “TV Guide,” head judge Tom Colicchio said, “It was great to have her back on set.” According to the article, the two have remained friends.

Here’s the description of the episode entitled “Night at the Museum”: “Pop singer Joe Jonas enlists the gourmets to prepare a snack for children taking in a sleepover at New York’s American Museum of Natural History. Later, prehistoric sustenance inspires breakfast items for the children.”

“Top Chef All-Stars” airs Wednesday, December 8th at 10 p.m. on Bravo…

Photo Credit: Myles Aronowitz/Bravo

"Psych": Shawn and Gus Visit "Twin Peaks"

It’s hard for me to believe, but there is only one show that my husband watches on a regular basis (Well, there are those “Family Guy” reruns, but I’m talking about new shows.).

And that lucky show is USA’s “Psych,” which continues its fall run tonight.

At first glance, the description of tonight’s episode doesn’t seem all that strange. Shawn and Gus (James Roday and Dule Hill) are invited to a festival in the small town of Dual Spires. But while there, they get caught up in a mysterious murder.

But in Dual Spires, nothing is quite what it seems. And that’s exactly the point. Because tonight’s episode is a tribute to the quirkiest show of them all—“Twin Peaks,” which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

Get it now? Dual Spires? Twin Peaks? Am I the only one who thinks that’s really clever?

The episode features guest appearances by a number of “Peaks” stars including Sherilynn Fenn, Ray Wise and Sheryl Lee. Roday actually co-wrote the episode and Julee Cruise, who performed music for “Peaks,” will perform the “Psych” theme song.

It’s hard for me to believe that “Peaks” is 20 years old. I didn’t watch it, but I remember my mom and dad watching the first episode. I remember them telling me how much they enjoyed it and me telling them that from what I saw there was just something not quite right about the show. Of course, I reminded them of that when they complained that the show got too weird…

I don’t think they were fans of little people who talked backward…

By the way, the teenage girl who’s murdered in the episode is named Paula Merral. “Peaks” fans will recognize that as an anagram for the “Peaks” murder victim, Laura Palmer.

Come on. You’ve got to think that one’s clever…

The “Dual Spires” episode of “Twin Peaks” airs tonight (Wednesday) at 10 p.m. on USA. If you miss it, you can catch encores Thursday, December 2nd at Midnight; Sunday, December 5th at 9 a.m.; and Tuesday, December 7th at 11 p.m.

Photo Credit: Alan Zenuk/USA

Pick of the Week: Did You Even Have to Ask?

Apparently, I’m suffering from some kind of post-holiday jet lag because I’m running about two days behind this week.

And of course there was that pesky Cyber Monday thing…

So let me get back on track by giving you my Pick of the Week. But let’s be honest. Did I even have to tell you what it was?

My Pick of the Week is the premiere of “Top Chef All-Stars.”

I pretty much said everything I am allowed to say about it in my column a few weeks ago, but I’ll have more to say after the episode airs and you know the first chef eliminated.

All I’ll say for now is prepare to be surprised…

“Top Chef All-Stars” premieres tonight at 10 on Bravo…

Photo Credit: David Giesbrecht/Bravo