Time for a Break

Now that another TV season is in the books, I thought I would take a few days off…

In the meantime, if you didn’t see it in today’s H-D, be sure to check out my final thoughts on the finales of “Lost” and “24” here.

Everyone have a happy and safe Memorial Day!

One More Goodbye to Get Through

It’s been an incredibly emotional week…

Monday night I bawled at the finale of “24.” Wednesday night, I teared up at Simon’s goodbye to “Idol.” And just when I’m starting to think I don’t have any more tears left, I’ve got one more goodbye to get through.

And yes, I will cry…

Tomorrow night, Kevin Eubanks is saying goodbye to “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.”

I’ve been a fan of “Tonight” since the very beginning (the first time) so I remember how the show didn’t gel until Kevin took over as the leader of the band. And now I just don’t know how it’s going to be without him.

Kevin will be doing a special performance to close out the show tomorrow night. I know Jay will probably tear up, so why shouldn’t I?

“The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” airs weeknights at 11:35 p.m. on NBC…

A "Lost" Finale Question Is Answered...

There are still TONS of questions. But one question about the “Lost” finale has been answered…

The final scene during the closing credits of the plane wreckage had some people thinking that the castaways all died during the plane crash.

But EW.com reported today that ABC actually added that footage themselves and that it was not meant to be part of the story. They said they added the footage to separate the emotional ending from the local news and didn’t realize that some viewers would consider every scene a clue.

Did they never watch the show?

Now if someone would answer my other questions. Like… Why was The Man In Black trying to destroy the island? And what was he hoping to accomplish when he did? What did Widmore want with the island? Or what did Juliet mean when she said, “It worked” before she died?

Feel free to help me out if you can…

Sending Out Some Love to the "Law & Order" Fans

Last night, after commiserating together for the billionth time about all the love that “Lost” has been getting while people ignore “24,” I told my friend that it could have been worse.

We could be “Law & Order” fans…

Seeing the way I reacted to the end of “24” last night, my heart goes out to all of you “L&O” fans who were ripped of any kind of closure. I know there has been some discussion about a wrap-up movie or the stars of the original showing up to get closure on the new spin-off. But the show deserves more than that. It deserved a real finale that wasn’t on the busiest night of the TV season.

And if 20 years doesn’t deserve a retrospective, then I don’t know what does…

Now, some of you will argue that “L&O” has never been about the characters and their personal lives so a real finale wouldn’t work. But I believe it deserved something. Maybe some of our old favorites could have returned for just one night for some purpose. And if there was any chance to have gotten Michael Moriarity back into that courtroom? Well that would have seriously rocked.

I haven’t been a “L&O” fan since Chris Noth was forced off the show, but at one time “L&O” was my “24.” The show I was totally obsessed with. So to see it treated so rudely in the end still really hurts.

And maybe what hurts most of all is that the show could probably get that record-breaking 21st season on TNT if NBC would just loosen its grip and do some negotiating.

Because that is really what the show deserves…

Photo Credit: Virginia Sherwood/NBC

My Thoughts on the "24" Finale: I Need More Tissues

I started the evening fighting ants (Don’t ask.) and I ended it fighting tears…

I haven’t cried that much at a TV show in a long time, maybe not ever. And though the last scene of “24” was definitely emotional, I think I was crying more at the thought that it was all coming to an end…

Warning: If you have not yet seen the finale of “24,” stop reading now…

The finale got off to an auspicious start as President Taylor went one step too far in preserving the peace. I was willing to buy her going along with Logan because I believed she desperately believed in peace and she wanted to preserve her legacy. But when she threatened Dalia Hassan with a nuclear strike against her country, that was just too much. I had to put down the Kool-Aid.

But no worries, I quickly picked it back up again…

There were so many good moments throughout the two hours that I found a way to go along with it. Necar Zadegan was brilliant as the betrayed Dalia Hassan. Cherry Jones sold the story well, although I’m not sure she personally liked it. And Gregory Itzin was his usual brilliant self as the ultra-slimy Logan. I just know he won’t get the Emmy love he deserves.

When President Taylor put the cap back on the pen and didn’t sign the treaty? I actually yelled, “Woo Hoo!” I was so happy. If she had signed the treaty, there would have been no redemption to her character. And Frank John Hughes finally got something to do as trusted Presidential adviser Tim Woods was forced to deal with a near hysterical president.

And although it was sad to see the greatest villain in “24” history end his run (Interesting how they kept him alive), Logan acted exactly how you would expect him to. Like a coward, unable to face the consequences. I’m just sorry he felt like he had to take Jason (the incredibly appealing Reed Diamond) with him.

But the finale was really all about Jack and Chloe. As it should be. The moment between the two of them as Chloe struggled to shoot Jack was completely amazing. Mary Lynn Rajskub said that Kiefer Sutherland helped her get over the hump for those scenes and it showed as the chemistry between them was incredible and she showed some real acting chops.

And that ending. WOW!

I actually started crying during President Taylor’s phone call to Jack, not because it was emotional—after all, we had kind of seen it before at the end of season four with Jack and President Palmer—but because I knew it was all coming to an end.

And what an end it was. As Jack told Chloe how much she meant to him I was crying as hard as she was. And then when he looked into the camera and told her thanks, I was a goner.

The final moment of Jack looking into the camera as Chloe told Arlo to shut it down was beautiful. Add to that the amazing score of Sean Callery (who totally rocked the entire finale), and it was a perfect ending.

Was the finale as a whole perfect? Not by any means. But then the show was never perfect either. There were a lot of stories that didn’t make sense and a lot of reality we had to suspend along the way. But that was all part of its charm. Tonight, there was the Taylor story to get past. And the ending was a little too rushed. And I have no idea why Jack felt it necessary to bite Jason’s ear. But in the end, they brought it all home.

Just typing the words, in the end have got me tearing up again…

But I’m comforted by the thought that Jack Bauer lives to fight another day. As a fugitive in another country, but still out there nonetheless. And you know that’s all that matters…

What about you guys? What are your thoughts on the end of “24”?

Photo Credit: Kelsey McNeal/FOX

24 Days of "24": The Final Day

Tonight, I say goodbye to my beloved “24.”

You can all think I’m crazy for taking it so hard, but I can’t help it. For me, it’s not just about the show…

It’s about my Monday night (and Tuesday night before that) ritual of turning out all the lights and jumping on the couch to watch, not letting anything else interfere for an entire hour…

It’s about my friend in Canada whom I’ve never met, but with whom I’ll be chatting on Facebook as we experience the final episode together…

It’s about nine years of experiences, not all of them good…

As we countdown to the final hours of the show, I can’t help but think about my mother and how she would react. She wasn’t a “24” fan but she always supported me being one. I just know that she would call me after the show tonight or sometime tomorrow to make sure I was okay…

Hey, laugh if you want, but this is the woman who called to congratulate me when Kiefer Sutherland won his Emmy. I know she would’ve had something to say about the show coming to an end.

And no doubt, I will have something to say tonight after the finale is over. So be sure to check back for my thoughts…

The two-hour series finale of “24” airs at 8 p.m. on FOX…

Photo Credit: Kelsey McNeal/FOX

My Thoughts on the "Lost" Finale: ???

So I promised that I would post my thoughts about the “Lost” finale immediately after it aired.

But honestly, I’m not sure what to say…

Warning: If you have not yet seen the finale of “Lost,” stop reading now…

As the two and a half hours progressed, I found myself caring way more about the sideways world than I did the island world. Because in the sideways world, all of our favorites were reuniting. It was great to see Sawyer and Juliet and Shannon and Sayid back together again. Even though we didn’t know how or why.

And quite frankly, we still don’t really. Other than we know that somehow they all created this church as a place where they could all find each other. And so they left the world they created for themselves in death and reunited to move on with each other?

Did that make any sense to anyone?

Team Darlton said in the retrospective that it was more about the people on the island than the island itself and I think that was made pretty clear by the finale’s final moments. Although we were introduced to more mythology with Desmond putting out the light, we got no explanation of that at all.

In fact, we got very little explanation of anything related to the island. Darlton said there would be questions unanswered, but I never dreamed there would be this many.

Which leads to my big question about the finale. If the show was more about the people on the island than the island itself, then why have all that mythology at all?

To me, it felt like Team Darlton threw in all of those reunions so we’d be so happy about them that we’d ignore the fact that they didn’t explain anything about the island or what in the world the sideways world was to start with. We’d be so busy wiping away tears and swallowing away lumps in our throats (Thanks to a very well done score by Michael Giacchino.) that we wouldn’t stop to think about those pesky unanswered questions.

As far as interesting drama, I thought the first two hours and 15 minutes were pretty good. Minus the whole Desmond stuff that didn’t make sense. But that ending. I’m okay with them all reuniting in death. I think that’s nice. But the ending has left some people so confused that they think they died in the pilot. And we know that’s not true…

Don’t we?

So now it’s your turn. What did you guys think of the “Lost” finale. Sound off by posting a comment below or sending me an e-mail to hdstaytuned@hotmail.com...

24 Days of "24": Behind the Scenes of the Finale

FOX has shared this short clip of what happened behind the scenes on the last day of filming of "24."

The first 20 seconds of the clip has no audio--no doubt to conceal some important spoilers...

As if you need reminded, the finale of "24" airs tomorrow at 8 p.m. on FOX...

The Only Show That Can Touch "Lost" Tonight

There is only one show capable of cutting into the ratings and buzz of the finale of “Lost” tonight. And would you believe it’s on NBC?

Real life has intervened with reality TV making “Celebrity Apprentice” one of the most-talked about shows on TV. And if Donald Trump is smart. He’ll take full advantage.

In case you don’t know, Holly Robinson Peete and Bret Michaels are competing for the title of Celebrity Apprentice and money for their charity.

But let’s be honest. If after everything he’s been through in recent weeks, Bret Michaels does end up sitting across from Donald Trump in the boardroom during the live finale tonight, is there any way the Donald can actually fire him?

I know that the winner is supposed to be based on the task at hand. And based on what I’ve heard, Bret is not handling this last task very well. But people will be tuning in to see if Bret can get a happy ending. And as big of a publicity hog as Trump is, I can’t imagine that he won’t give the people what they want.

Surely even Holly knows that. If I was her, I’d just give it to Bret right now…

The season finale of “Celebrity Apprentice” airs Sunday, May 23rd at 9 p.m. on NBC…

Photo Credit: Ali Goldstein/NBC

Pick of the Week: The End of An Era

It’s time once again for my Pick…

Do you even have to ask?

My Pick of the Week is the series finale of “24.”

I didn’t get the advanced screener that I was hoping for. But everything I’ve read says that it will be very emotional.

Like it wouldn’t be for me anyway…

The two-hour series finale of “24” airs Monday, May 24th at 8 p.m. on FOX…

Photo Credit: Kelsey McNeal/FOX

This Week's May Sweeps Schedule

Here we are. The last three days of May sweeps and the TV season. And they are jam-packed—especially Monday, which could be the busiest night of the year.

Here’s a sample of what you’re scheduled to see…

Monday, May 24th
24—8 PM—FOX—Series Finale
**Eriq LaSalle guests.
Dancing With the Stars—8 PM—ABC—Season Finale, Part 1
How I Met Your Mother—8 PM—CBS—Season Finale
Rules of Engagement—8:30 PM—CBS—Season Finale
The Bachelorette—9 PM (2 hrs.)—ABC—Season Premiere
**Ali from the last round of “The Bachelor” returns.
Two and a Half Men—9 PM—CBS—Season Finale
**Stacy Keach and John Amos return.
The Big Bang Theory—9:30 PM—CBS—Season Finale
**Mayim Bialik guests.
Law & Order—10 PM—NBC—Series Finale
CSI: Miami—10 PM—CBS—Season Finale
**Esai Morales guests.

Tuesday, May 25th
Inside the Actors Studio—7 PM—Bravo
**Sean Combs sits in the chair.
American Idol—8 PM—FOX—Season Finale, Part 1
The Biggest Loser—8 PM (2 hrs.)—NBC—Season Finale
NCIS—8 PM—Season Finale, Part 2
NCIS: Los Angeles—9 PM—Season Finale
Dancing With the Stars—9 PM (2 hrs.)—ABC—Season Finale, Part 2
Parenthood—10 PM—NBC—Season Finale
The Good Wife—10 PM—CBS—Season Finale

Wednesday, May 26th
American Idol—8 PM—10:07 PM—FOX—Season Finale
Wednesday Movie of the Week—8 PM—ABC
**Transformers
Saturday Night Live Presents: Sports All-Stars—8 PM—NBC
**NBC combats the “Idol” finale with an encore of this SNL special showing clips with sports stars, including Peyton Manning.
Criminal Minds—9 PM—CBS—Season Finale
**Tim Curry guests.
CSI: NY—10 PM—CBS—Season Finale

Photo Credit: Sonja Flemming/CBS

24 Days of "24": The Six Biggest "24" Moments

The something special that I promised you was a review of the finale. But since my screener didn’t arrive today as promised, I’ll have to give you something else.

So how about my picks for the six biggest moments in “24” history?

#6 Jack kills Nina (Season 3)
Nina was one of the show’s greatest villains, but she had this one coming. We waited for this for a long time and it was worth the wait. But the reason I ranked it so high is because it’s the moment that turned the show around. The show lost its way a little during the second half of season two and didn’t find it again until this moment. After Nina’s death, the show got back on track and didn’t veer off again for two and a half more seasons.

#5 Jack kills Chappelle (Season 3)
Ryan Chappelle was probably one of the most unpopular characters in “24” history. He was the CTU division guy that always stood in Jack’s way. So his death was not unwelcome. It was the way he died that was so powerful. Stephen Saunders, the big baddie of the third season, said he would release a deadly virus unless Chappelle was killed. President Palmer authorized it and Jack carried it out. It was the first of the “Oh no they won’t” moments. But they did. The other interesting thing about this moment is that it aired on a Sunday, because the regular airing was pre-empted by a Presidential address.

#4 Nina is revealed as the mole (Season 1)
CTU moles are a “24” tradition. But Nina Myers was the first and most shocking. The show had worked so hard to convince us that it wasn’t Nina that we never saw it coming.

#3 Edgar’s death (Season 5)
There have been a lot of deaths in the show’s history, but none were more powerful than this one. I had already figured out that Edgar was the death the promos were promising, but that didn’t lessen its impact. The shot of Chloe watching her friend die from behind the protective glass with no way to stop it was one of the most emotional moments of the series.

#2 “Alan” suffocates Janet (Season 1)
I didn’t rank this one so high because it was the moment that hooked me on the show. I ranked it so high because it was the first “24” twist and the moment “24” became “24.” Alan York and Teri Bauer were working together to find their missing daughters Janet and Kim. And they rushed to the hospital when Janet was found and brought there. But when Alan entered her room, Janet’s question of “Who are you?” was a stunner. Even more stunning was when “Alan” reached over and smothered her with her oxygen mask.

#1 Teri’s death (Season 1)
Could it really be anything else? This was one of the most shocking moments in TV history, let alone “24” history. The hero is supposed to save the day and be reunited with his family. Those are the rules. But “24” announced that it didn’t care about the rules when Jack found his wife, Teri, dead in the final moments of the first season. It was the moment that put the show on the map so it’s hard to believe now how deadset against it Kiefer Sutherland was at the time. I can’t even imagine how different the show would’ve been if Teri had lived.

And there you have it. My choices for the biggest moments in “24” history. What do you think? Did I leave any out?

Photo Credits: Isabella Vosmikova/FOX, Nicola Goode/FOX, Kelsey McNeal/FOX, Richard Foreman/FOX, EW.com

24 Days of "24": The 24 Biggest Moments Part 3

Let’s crack into the top 10 as we continue my countdown of the biggest moments in “24” history…

#12 Hacksaw (Season 2)
It was the moment when Jack Bauer became Jack Bauer. Brought into CTU for the first time since his wife’s death, Jack was asked to go undercover. An informant was brought in to help form his cover. But instead of listening to him, Jack pulled out a gun and shot him dead. When George Mason, the CTU director, charged into the room, Jack looked him in the eye and said “I’m gonna need a hacksaw.” The hacksaw, of course, was to cut the informant’s head off so Jack could show it to the group he was going undercover with. It was the first really crazy move we saw Jack make to get the job done.

#11 President Hassan Death (Season 8)
You’d think after all these years we’d know better. We should know that Jack doesn’t always save the day and the good guys don’t always win. But somehow we still didn’t see this one coming. The heartbroken look on Jack’s face as he found the murdered President Hassan spoke volumes.

#10 Chase Hand Chop (Season 3)
A classic Sean Callery music cue told me what was going to happen, but I was screaming at the TV anyway. Jack’s partner—and his daughter’s boyfriend—Chase Edmunds attached a deadly virus to his wrist to keep it out of the hands of terrorists. But when the terrorist armed the device to release the virus, Jack had no choice but to chop Chase’s hand off to allow Jack to take the virus to a safe place.

#9 Air Force One Shot Down (Season 4)
They had been hinting at something for weeks, but when the pieces finally came together as to what was going to happen, it was a total “oh no they won’t” moment. In fact, I was still sure they wouldn’t do it—all the way up to the moment we saw the flames rush through Air Force One’s cabin. The moments leading up to the plane going down were some of the most tension-filled of the series.

#8 Mason’s death (Season 2)
I’ve already told you this is my favorite moment from the show, but it’s a significant moment in the show’s history because it was, as music composer Sean Callery told me, a real turning point for the show. And it was really the first time we saw the redemption of a disliked character.

#7 President Palmer’s Death (Season 5)
Palmer’s portrayer, Dennis Haysbert, is still bitter about this one as President Palmer was gunned down in the first 10 minutes of the season premiere. But this one event led to all the amazing events of season five. So personally I think the sacrifice was worth it.

24 Days of “24” continues tomorrow with something very special—I hope…

Photo Credits: Isabella Vosmikova/FOX, Greg Gayne/FOX, Mitchell Haaseth/FOX

"Grey's Anatomy" Season Finale: Did It Run Out of Gas?

I don’t watch “Grey’s Anatomy,” yet somehow I always end up watching the season finale. Usually I just tune into the last 15 minutes or so to see how it ends. But last night, I got sucked into watching the entire two hours (minus 15 minutes or so)…

Warning: If you have not yet seen the season finale of “Grey’s Anatomy,” stop reading now…

You’ve got to hand it to that Shonda Rhimes. She does know how to get you watching. Meredith’s opening narration, in which she said she “loved” the hospital, past tense, really made you wonder if she was going to survive this episode or not. And then you wondered if maybe Derek wouldn’t make it. Or Alex. Or…

The first hour was pure adrenaline. And I mean that as a compliment. At first I thought they were just ripping off the “ER” episode where Carter got stabbed, but it turned out to be much more than that as many characters got taken down. Since Michael O’Neill usually plays the cop, or the Secret Service agent, or the FBI agent, it was interesting to see him on a murderous rampage. But he played it well. Also playing their part well was guest star Mandy Moore, who was called on to do a lot of emotional scenes. And she was great doing them.

There were several key moments that were beautifully directed. When Bailey suddenly started sliding out from under the bed when the shooter found her. Or when the shooter appeared in the OR. The dramatic tension built beautifully.

But then that ending…

I can totally appreciate and respect the show’s desire not to end in a cliffhanger (as it normally does), but so much more could’ve been done. The show purposely left us wondering whether Webber or the shooter were shot. But instead of revealing that in dramatic fashion, we just saw Webber strolling through the hospital. Where was the shot of the shooter being wheeled out on a gurney so that all the principals could dramatically watch him leave? Or the shot of Webber dramatically holding the shooter’s flask while the shooter lay dead in front of him?

I’ve never been a fan for introducing a character just to kill them, so I am certainly not a fan of making a character pregnant just for them to lose the baby in the same episode. And I know the undramatic fashion in which Meredith reacted was supposed to show us her coolness under pressure, but I thought it just came off wrong. And the final shot of her throwing her positive pregnancy test in the trash? A real bummer ending after all of the drama.

And I know that drama wouldn’t have happened otherwise, but can I just say that was the worst SWAT team in history! They let the guy get away numerous times—even after shooting him. And they were supposed to be evacuating floor by floor, so what floor was Bailey on that no one got to her? And I appreciate the drama of Bailey crying and freaking out (which will probably earn Chandra Wilson an Emmy), but according to that absolutely pointless montage of 911 calls, Bailey called 911, which means she had access to a phone. So why didn’t she use it to call someone to tell them to send the SWAT team to her floor?

I thought it was a very strong hour and 50 minutes. But for me, it just ran out of dramatic gas at the end…

What do you guys think? Do you think it was the best “Grey’s” episode ever as many are touting or were you too disappointed in the ending?

The CW Closes Out Upfront Week

Today, The CW closed out Upfront Week by announcing its schedule.

From the official press release, here’s a look…

MONDAY

8:00-9:00 PM 90210 (New Night)

9:00-10:00 PM GOSSIP GIRL


TUESDAY

8:00-9:00 PM ONE TREE HILL (New Night)

9:00-10:00 PM LIFE UNEXPECTED (New Night)


WEDNESDAY

8:00-9:00 PM AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL

9:00-10:00 PM HELLCATS (New Series)


THURSDAY

8:00-9:00 PM THE VAMPIRE DIARIES

9:00-10:00 PM NIKITA (New Series)


FRIDAY

8:00-9:00 PM SMALLVILLE

9:00-10:00 PM SUPERNATURAL (New Night)

The network, as expected, cancelled “Melrose Place.”

Here, again from the press release, are descriptions of the new shows…

“HELLCATS”
HELLCATS is a coming-of-age story about Marti Perkins, a young, pre-law student at Lancer University in Memphis, Tennessee. Marti is cool, hip and alt, but her world flips upside down, literally and figuratively, when she loses her scholarship, and realizes the only way she can stay in school is by reigniting her dormant teen gymnastic skills to win a place on Lancer’s legendary cheerleading team, The Hellcats. Against her every instinct, Marti goes for it and makes the squad, and is thrust into a world of camaraderie, backstabbing and the intersection of sports, backroom academia and big money. Marti’s new roommate, Savannah Monroe, a petite, peppy Texan, is among the diverse cast of athletes, undergrads, family and friends, all set on the sprawling campus of a powerhouse college football program in the deep South. The series stars Aly Michalka as Marti Perkins, Ashley Tisdale as Savannah Monroe, Heather Hemmens as Alice Verdura, Robbie Jones as Lewis Flynn, Matt Barr as Dan Patch, with Sharon Leal as Vanessa Lodge and Gail O’Grady as Wanda Perkins. HELLCATS is from Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Tom Welling Productions, Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios with executive producers Kevin Murphy (“Desperate Housewives”), Tom Welling (“Smallville”) and Allan Arkush (“Heroes,” “Crossing Jordan”). The pilot was directed by Allan Arkush.

“NIKITA”
When she was a deeply troubled teenager, Nikita was rescued from death row by a secret U.S. agency known only as Division, who faked her execution and told her she was being given a second chance to start a new life and serve her country. What they didn’t tell her was that she was being trained as a spy and assassin. Ultimately, Nikita was betrayed and her dreams shattered by the only people she thought she could trust. Now, after three years in hiding, Nikita is seeking retribution and making it clear to her former bosses that she will stop at nothing to expose and destroy their covert operation. For the time being, however, Division continues to recruit and train other young people, erasing all evidence of their former lives and turning them into cold and efficient killers. One of these new recruits, Alex, is just beginning to understand what lies ahead for her and why the legendary Nikita made the desperate decision to run. The series stars Maggie Q as Nikita, Lyndsy Fonseca as Alex, Shane West as Michael, Aaron Stanford as Birkhoff, Ashton Holmes as Thom, Tiffany Hines as Jaden, with Melinda Clarke as Amanda and Xander Berkeley as Percy. NIKITA is from Warner Bros. Television in association with Wonderland Sound and Vision, with executive producers Craig Silverstein (“Bones,” “K-Ville”), Danny Cannon (“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” “Chuck”), McG (“Supernatural,” “Chuck,” “The O.C.,” “Charlie’s Angels”), and Peter Johnson (“Supernatural,” “Chuck”). The pilot was directed by Danny Cannon.

For Mid-Season:

“SHEDDING FOR THE WEDDING” (working title)
They are two of the most stressful things in life – planning a wedding and losing weight. Ten overweight engaged couples will live together and battle for the wedding of their dreams over a three-month period. Every episode, the couples will face off in a big physical challenge, competing to win one element of their wedding – from the invitations, to the cake, to the rings. Whatever they win will be theirs to keep. Together, they will plan their weddings with the help of the nation’s top wedding planners, they will take a vow to eat right and exercise, and world-class trainers and nutritionists will completely overhaul their bodies. At the end of each episode, the couples will step on the scale and be weighed together – the couple who lost the least amount of combined weight that week will be eliminated. In the end, one couple will win their fantasy wedding – a once-in-a-lifetime event – that America will attend. SHEDDING FOR THE WEDDING (working title) is from Raquel Productions Inc. with executive producers Dave Broome (“The Biggest Loser”) and Rick Hurvitz (“Pimp My Ride”).

24 Days of "24": Chloe Speaks!

Chloe O’Brian herself, Mary Lynn Rajskub, talked to the media via conference call today about the “24” finale and the show’s legacy…

Several media members on the call had actually seen the finale, which made me a little jealous that for whatever reason I didn’t make the cut. But it also led to some juicy tidbits—one of which was so juicy, I’m leaving it out…

Here’s some of what Mary Lynn had to say…

On why “24” worked: “I think that’s exactly what the producers have talked about in the different press panels and things that I’ve read and talked about. They didn’t think it was going to go, and I think that’s exactly the reason why it did go because it was original. It was different. It was well done. It was a passionate project, and if you were around at every level from the producers and the writers to the camera crew to Kiefer, those are all key players that set the tone and the passion to make this concept that could’ve been a terrible idea.

It could have really fallen apart, but instead turned into this wonderful thing that, okay, two years, three years, five years in it’s like, okay, we’ve got to do this 24-hour concept again and make it fresh. I think that’s part of, viewers can feel that, that it’s challenging them, and it has the familiarity with all the plot lines that they burn through and all the characters that died. That’s the thing that holds it is this concept that you know it’s on this time clock and how’re they going to make it work and how’re they going to make this fresh again. I think that’s kept it exciting all this time.”

On whether Chloe will be in the movie: “Well, I hope so for gosh sake. I’ve not heard much, but I am very much hoping that I will be involved. I think that could be very interesting to see how that happens. How are they going to make it into a film? I have no idea, and I’ve not talked to anybody about that. I know that Kiefer’s really excited. I did an interview for Extra TV yesterday, and he told me that Kiefer told him that there were three movies. They’re planning on three, and so I always kind of get my news from what has already been said in the press.

In that regard I’m sure you guys know more than me, so please let me know if you hear that I’m in the movie. Please call me at home any time day or night. Yes, I’m kind of out of the loop, but I think it could be interesting and a creative challenge to see how they would handle that.”

On her favorite Chloe moment: “I’ve been getting a lot of those kinds of questions lately, and I have more fun kind of coming up with a moment that’s in my memory. I’ve twittered that, and then I get back like 12 moments that the fans remember that I didn’t even remember. Certainly, having the gun and having to be on the run and on location was great. Edgar’s death is something that people remember, and that was a very kind of a turning point I think for my character, watching him die was hard. I’ve just liked it better and better, and it’s all kind of a big mush in my head, but this year it’s been a whole new set of things which is amazing that there’s so much left to explore in having those extra responsibilities and weighty questions of how to deal with. That was a whole new set of cool moments.”

On whether she’s ever had to fight for Chloe’s life: “No, and I think that’s kind of funny you should say that. I think it’s worked in my favor that I haven’t fought for stuff. I’ve kind of hoped for stuff, but I’ve been pretty hands-off. I was not one of the people who walked up to the producers’ rooms and knocked on the doors and had big conversations. I was very impressed that Carlos did that, maybe a little bit jealous, like he just talked them into making his character come back to life. I thought that was pretty ballsy and pretty awesome, but I’m very happy with what’s happened to my character. There have been certain years maybe where I wish I would’ve been able to do more, but at the same time, I was very happy that I kind of was always that anchor in CTU. I don’t feel bad about maybe leaving them wanting more as well as wanting more myself, but I think this year I’ve gotten to do a lot that I didn’t before which is great.”

On whether her relationship with Kiefer has changed like Chloe’s relationship with Jack: “Good question. I’m afraid I might have a disappointing answer, not really. I was going to say because my relationship with Kiefer has kind of remarkably been the same that it’s been since I met him which is on set when he’s playing Jack Bauer very intense, a little bit scary, keeps you on the edge of your toes, immediately just a very impressive guy in terms of his commitment to the story and making it good and keeping the pace. I was probably a little bit more scared of him when I first started than I ended up being, so that would be a change because he’s a sweetheart.

He helped me get over, there was a hump sort of. I talked about it a lot from being a computer geek in CTU to then helping Jack. What was I talking about? Sorry. He helped me with the emotional stuff and the high intensity that I had never done before, like when I had to look at his computer screen and kind of be watching my friend being hurt. I told him that I was really nervous to do that, and he stood off camera. He coached me through that to help me to kind of how he talked as if I was watching what was happening on the screen. You know what I’m saying and helped me be a better actor and learn how to do that.”

On whether she was ever concerned that Chloe would die: “I like that choice of words, significantly concerned. Using that word I would say no. I was not ever significantly concerned, but I would sometimes out of nowhere have a little panic, like, oh God, what if die? I think for the first few years, like I said, it was more a worry of just being picked up again because they could’ve easily have just phased me out too. That’s the beauty of “24.” It’s only one day. They could come back the next season and just not have me there.

That was a great blessing and compliment to me that they’d have me back in the place where I worked where they would have a whole new staff almost every year. That was exciting. I maybe stupidly, naively believed that I wouldn’t get killed because I was in CTU, but we all know bad things happen in CTU, so maybe I falsely believed that I wouldn’t, but then again not because I’m still here.”

And now a little finale scoop…

At one point during the call, David Martindale with Hearst Newspapers asked this: “In Jack’s big speech at the end he tells Chloe how he never dreamed when she first showed up how important she would be to him. I was wondering if you can relate to what your expectations were, you as Mary Lynn Rajskub, the actress, when you first showed up on the set? In retrospect are you surprised as Jack was?”

Her was her answer: “It kind of mirrors real life in that way because when he says that speech to me that was exactly how I felt about this whole job. I had no idea when I started, and I think that’s kind of truthful to what the character has been and what this job has been for me, starting out with four episodes and then six episodes and thinking I was going to be fired. I’m just the geeky computer tech weird kind of by-the-book girl when I first started, but people were really annoyed because they people in their office that you remind me of this annoying person that works in my office with me to then be Jack’s most loyal helper for lack of a better word that’s not coming to my mind, the confidant and friend. It’s been pretty amazing and unexpected for sure.”

Photo Credit: Kelsey McNeal/FOX

24 Days of “24”: Will I Go Jack Bauer on “TV Guide”?

Normally, I’m very happy when my “TV Guide” comes in my mailbox. But tonight when I started flipping through it, I just got angry…

No surprise, “Lost” is on the cover—even though the finale will air before this issue’s listings begin. There’s a six-page feature on Team Darlton’s favorite moments. Okay, fair enough.

So what coverage does the finale of “24” get, which is actually airing during the listings week? One page. A “Keck’s Exclusives” feature that already ran on TVGuideMagazine.com. No spotlight in the Monday highlights. Not even a picture.

Is that how a magazine about TV should pay tribute to a show that changed TV as we know it? Need I remind everyone again that there would be no “Lost” without “24”?

I know I promised all of you more of the biggest moments in “24” history tonight, but because I’ve had a long night and I’m a little angry, I don’t think I would do them justice. So I hope you’ll all forgive me if I postpone posting them.

Tomorrow, 24 Days of “24” is scheduled to continue with comments from Mary Lynn Rajskub’s conference call…

Meet the New CBS Shows

Here from the offical CBS press release are descriptions of the new CBS shows...

The New Comedies are:

$#*! MY DAD SAYS, based on the popular Twitter feed by Justin Halpern, stars Emmy Award winner William Shatner as Ed Goodson, a forthright and opinionated dad who relishes expressing his unsolicited and often wildly politically incorrect observations to anyone within earshot. Nobody is immune from Ed's rants, including his sons, Henry, a struggling writer-turned-unpaid blogger; and Vince (Will Sasso), the meek half of his husband/wife real estate duo with domineering Kathleen (Nicole Sullivan). When Henry finds he can no longer afford to pay rent to his pretty roommate -- and secret admirer -- Sam (Stephanie Lemelin), Ed reveals a soft spot and invites Henry to move in with him. Henry agrees, knowing that the verbal assault will not abate and now there will be no escape. Describing their father/son relationship is tricky - but Ed will easily come up with a few choice words. Emmy Award winners David Kohan and Max Mutchnick are executive producers for Warner Bros. Television. Emmy Award winner James Burrows directed.

MIKE & MOLLY is a comedy from Chuck Lorre ("Two and a Half Men," and "The Big Bang Theory") about a working class Chicago couple who find love at an Overeaters Anonymous meeting. Officer Mike Biggs (Billy Gardell) is a good-hearted cop who sincerely wants to lose weight. Mike's partner, Officer Carl McMillan (Reno Wilson), is a thin, fast-talking wise-guy, who despite his teasing encourages Mike on his road to slimness and romance. While speaking at an O.A. meeting, Mike meets Molly Flynn (Melissa McCarthy), an instantly likeable fourth-grade teacher with a healthy sense of humor about her curves. For Molly, focusing on smart choices isn't easy because she lives with her sexy older sister, Victoria (Katy Mixon), and their mother, Joyce (Swoosie Kurtz), both of whom flaunt their healthy appetites and slender figures. Mike also faces temptation at the diner he and Carl frequent, where they've become friends with the Senegalese waiter, Samuel (Nyambi Nyambi), who finds trying to eat less a foreign concept. For Mike and Molly, thanks to their mutual love of pie and the desire to resist it, finding each other may have been worth the "weight." Chuck Lorre and Mark Roberts are executive producers for Chuck Lorre Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television.

The New Dramas are:

HAWAII FIVE-0 is a contemporary take on the classic series about a new elite federalized task force whose mission is to wipe out the crime that washes up on the Islands' sun-drenched beaches. Detective Steve McGarrett (Alex O'Loughlin), a decorated Naval officer turned cop, returns to Oahu to investigate his father's murder and stays after Hawaii's governor persuades him to head up the new team: his rules, her backing, no red tape and full blanket immunity to hunt down the biggest "game" in town. Joining McGarrett is Detective Danny "Danno" Williams (Scott Caan), a newly relocated ex-New Jersey cop who prefers skyscrapers to the coastline but is committed to keeping the Islands safe for his 8-year-old daughter; and Chin Ho Kelly (Daniel Dae Kim), an ex-Honolulu Police Detective wrongly accused of corruption and relegated to a federal security patrol, who is also a former protégé of McGarrett's father. Chin's cousin, Kono (Grace Park), is a beautiful and fearless native, fresh out of the academy and eager to establish herself among the department's elite. McGarrett vows to bring closure to his father's case while the state's brash new FIVE-0 unit, who may spar and jest among themselves, is determined to eliminate the seedy elements from the 50th state. Peter Lenkov, Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci are executive producers for CBS Television Studios.

THE DEFENDERS stars Jim Belushi and Jerry O'Connell in a comedic drama about two colorful Las Vegas defense attorneys who go all-in when it comes to representing their clients. Nick and Pete are the local go-to guys with an eclectic client list who are still looking to hit their own jackpot. Leading the law firm of Morelli & Kaczmarek are Nick Morelli (Belushi), an earnest, hard-charging attorney who represents his clients to the best of his ability, no matter how big or small the case, and his partner, Pete Kaczmarek (O'Connell), whose passion for the law is matched only by his love of fast cars, beautiful women and expensive clothes. Joining them in their growing law practice is new associate Lisa Tyler (Jurnee Smollett), an enthusiastic young attorney looking to put her exotic dancing days behind her; and their young assistant, Sophie (Tanya Fischer), a spunky and sweet ingénue who is eager to please her bosses. As Lady Luck shines on their legal careers, the partners have their hands full when it comes to their personal lives. While Pete is busy cruising the Vegas Strip for his latest romantic conquest, Nick is focused on repairing his fractured marriage to his estranged wife, Jessica (Gillian Vigman), while remaining present in the life of their young son. No matter the offense, Nick and Pete aim to prove that when the stakes are high they're willing to bet the house on the clients they defend in Sin City. Carol Mendelsohn, Niels Mueller and Kevin Kennedy, Joe and Harry Gantz, and Davis Guggenheim are the executive producers for CBS Television Studios.

BLUE BLOODS is a drama about a multi-generational family of cops dedicated to New York City law enforcement. Frank Reagan (Tom Selleck) is the New York Chief of Police and patriarch of the Reagan brood, which he heads as diplomatically as he does the force, even when dealing with the politics that plagued his unapologetically bold father, Henry (Len Cariou), during his stint as Chief. A source of pride and concern for Frank is his eldest son Danny (Donnie Wahlberg), a seasoned detective, family man and Iraqi War vet who on occasion uses dubious tactics to solve cases. The sole Reagan woman in the family, Erin (Bridget Moynahan), is a N.Y. Assistant D.A. and newly single parent, who also serves as the legal compass for her siblings and father. Jamie (Will Estes) is the youngest Reagan, fresh out of Harvard Law and the family's "golden boy." However, unable to deny the family tradition, Jamie decided to give up a lucrative future in law and is now a newly minted cop, a career change seemingly supported by his beautiful girlfriend, Sydney Davenport (Dylan Moore), a first year lawyer. Jamie's life takes an abrupt turn, however, when he's asked to become part of a clandestine police investigation even his father knows nothing about, and one that could impact the family's legacy. Emmy Award winners Mitchell Burgess, Robin Green and Leonard Goldberg are executive producers for CBS Television Studios.

The Midseason Series:

CRIMINAL MINDS SPINOFF stars Academy Award-winner Forest Whitaker in a drama about an elite team of agents within the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit who use unconventional methods of investigation and aggressive tactics to capture the nation's most nefarious criminals. Unit chief Special Agent Sam Cooper (Whitaker) is a mentally and physically fierce natural leader who is not afraid to put his career on the line in order to stand by his convictions. Cooper strives to avoid political bureaucracy and has handpicked an eclectic group of profilers to work outside the confines of Quantico: Former British Special Forces soldier Mick Rawson (Matt Ryan), confident and handsome, works as a highly-skilled marksman with an undiluted eye for rooting out evil; John "Prophet" Sims (Michael Kelly), a former convict with a street-smart edge and a calm, Zen-like presence, who is determined to make amends for past sins; and Gina LaSalle (Beau Garrett), an attractive, tough agent armed with a cunning sense of perception. This exceptional group of FBI operatives is strong in their beliefs and steadfast in their mission to bring the country's most dangerous criminals to justice. Chris Mundy, Edward Allen Bernero, Mark Gordon and Deborah Spera are executive producers for ABC Studios in association with CBS Television Studios.

CBS Makes Some Big Changes

When you’re #1, you would think you wouldn’t make too many changes, right?

Not CBS, who is making some big changes to its line-up this fall including a pretty big shakeup of its successful Monday night line-up…

First, the network is moving “The Big Bang Theory” to Thursdays at 8, which makes some sense since “Bang” has proven it can work without “Men” and that would give CBS another comedy block on a very important night. But since they were already winning Thursdays at 8 with “Survivor,” I’m a little skeptical.

Second, they’re moving “CSI:NY” to Fridays at 9. That actually makes perfect sense because Friday nights on CBS are known for procedurals and “NY” would be competing directly against “Law & Order: LA” if it stayed on Wednesday. But Fridays are known to be where shows go to die.

But here’s the big one. CBS is moving “CSI:Miami” to Sundays at 10 p.m. That’s right. Against “Sunday Night Football.” And with the slipping ratings this one has been experiencing, CBS could have some trouble here—at least for the first half of the season.

I can’t help but wonder if the age of “CSI” is about to come to an end…

In the meantime, from the official press release, here is the 2010-2011 CBS schedule…

MONDAY
8:00-8:30 PM HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER
8:30-9:00 PM RULES OF ENGAGEMENT
9:00-9:30 PM TWO AND A HALF MEN
9:30-10:00 PM MIKE & MOLLY (N)
10:00-11:00 PM HAWAII FIVE-0 (N)

TUESDAY
8:00-9:00 PM NCIS
9:00-10:00 PM NCIS: LOS ANGELES
10:00-11:00 PM THE GOOD WIFE

WEDNESDAY
8:00-9:00 PM SURVIVOR (NT)
9:00-10:00 PM CRIMINAL MINDS
10:00-11:00 PM THE DEFENDERS (N)

THURSDAY
8:00-8:30 PM THE BIG BANG THEORY (NT)
8:30-9:00 PM $#*! MY DAD SAYS (N)
9:00-10:00 PM CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION
10:00-11:00 PM THE MENTALIST

FRIDAY
8:00-9:00 PM MEDIUM (NT)
9:00-10:00 PM CSI: NY (NT)
10:00-11:00 PM BLUE BLOODS (N)

SATURDAY
8:00-9:00 PM CRIMETIME SATURDAY
9:00-10:00 PM CRIMETIME SATURDAY
10:00-11:00 PM 48 HOURS MYSTERY

SUNDAY
7:00-8:00 PM 60 MINUTES
8:00-9:00 PM THE AMAZING RACE
9:00-10:00 PM UNDERCOVER BOSS
10:00-11:00 PM CSI: MIAMI (NT)

For the record, CBS cancelled "Gary Unmarried."

24 Days of "24": The 24 Biggest Moments Part 2

So while I try to get some images from last night’s episode out of my head, let’s rejoin my countdown of the 24 biggest moments from “24” history…

#18 Aaron to the rescue (Season 5)
When Secret Service agent Aaron Pierce got in the car with the First Lady Martha Logan it seemed like his fate had been sealed. After all, the car, also carrying the Russian President and First Lady, was just minutes away from being attacked. And when the attack did happen, it appeared that Aaron was down and out. But he revived and ended up saving the day by blowing up the bad guy with the flamethrower. It was a great moment for a great character, but maybe more importantly, the show finally established a compelling B storyline. In fact, Jack barely appeared in the episode. And we were still completely riveted.

#17 Above the kneecap (Season 5)
In a recent interview, “24” EP/Showrunner Howard Gordon called this scene a mistake. I couldn’t disagree more. This moment was a classic “24” shocker. Jack, trying to get information from Henderson held a gun to his leg. But when Henderson refused to talk, Jack suddenly turned the gun on Henderson’s wife and shot her in the leg. When Henderson protested, Jack proclaimed he had shot her above the kneecap so she could still walk. Kiefer Sutherland recently said it was one of his favorite moments.

#16 Tony’s death (Season 5)
Ranking this one on the list was tough since the show totally redid this in Season 7. But it was a very intense moment at the time, culminating in Jack crying while holding his lifeless friend. The death itself was a little lame but the aftermath was one of the show’s most emotional moments ever.

#15 Jack cries (Season 3)
It certainly wasn’t the last time, but it was the first time we really saw Jack crumble. It came after his friend Tony was carted off to jail and he was forced to chop his daughter’s boyfriend’s hand off.

#14 Jack fakes his death (Season 4)
I knew it was all fake. I knew that Jack wasn’t actually going to die. But I still held my breath until Jack started breathing again. Adding to the intensity was the scene where Bill told Audrey Jack was dead, Jack’s goodbye to Tony and Michelle and Jack’s goodbye to President Palmer. It was all topped off by that gorgeous shot of Jack walking off into the sunrise.

#13 Jack lets Paul die (Season 4)
When the husband of Jack’s girlfriend, Audrey, appeared, we were sure he was a bad guy. But instead, Paul helped Jack and even saved his life, getting shot in the process. But when a nuclear researcher crucial to stopping a terrorist threat is critically wounded, Jack forces the surgeon to stop working on Paul and save the researcher. Paul crashes and dies leaving a devastated Audrey to blame Jack for Paul’s death.

We'll crack into the top 10 starting tomorrow...

Photo Credits: Michael Desmond/FOX, Kelsey McNeal/FOX & Isabella Vosmikova/FOX

Meet the New ABC Shows

From the official press release, here is a description of ABC’s new series…

DRAMA

“BODY OF PROOF”
Dr. Megan Hunt (Dana Delany) was in a class of her own, a brilliant neurosurgeon at the top of her game. Her world is turned upside down when a devastating car accident puts an end to her time in the operating room. Megan resumes her career as a medical examiner determined to solve the puzzle of who or what killed the victims. Megan’s instincts are sharp, but she’s developed a reputation for graying the lines of where her job ends and where the police department’s begins. It turns out her career isn’t the only thing that will need to be rebuilt; Megan’s family has taken a backseat to her ambition, and now she’ll discover there’s a lot of work to do when it comes to dissecting her relationships with the living.

Dana Delany stars as Dr. Megan Hunt, Jeri Ryan as Dr. Kate Murphy, Geoffrey Arend as Dr. Elliot Gross, John Carroll Lynch as Detective Bud Morris, Windell Middlebrooks as Dr. Curtis Brumfield, Nic Bishop as Peter Dunlap, and Sonja Sohn as Detective Samantha Baker.

“Body of Proof” is from ABC Studios. Christopher Murphey wrote the pilot, which was directed by Nelson McCormick. Murphey and Matt Gross serve as executive producers.

“DETROIT 1-8-7”
What does it take to be a detective on America’s most dangerous streets? Get ready to be part of the action when a documentary crew rolls with some of Detroit’s finest, offering an insider's glimpse behind the curtain of a Homicide Unit. The cameras unearth the crisis and revelation, heartbreak and heroism of these inner city cops - moments of raw exposure when they address us directly, as well as private moments when they forget they're being filmed.

There’s the damaged, but driven, Detective Louis Fitch, a wily homicide vet who is the most respected -- and misunderstood -- man in the division; Detective Damon Washington, Fitch’s new partner, who finds the first day on the job is a trial by fire, complicated by the imminent birth of his first child; Detective Ariana Sanchez, sexy, edgy and beautiful, has emerged from a rough background to become a rising star in the department; Narcotics undercover cop John Stone, a streetwise smooth talker, clever and quick with a smile made for the movies, is teamed with Sanchez -- a combustible pairing rife with conflict and sexual tension; Sergeant Jesse Longford, a 30-year veteran struggling with his impending retirement from the force and the city he loves, and with his partner Detective Aman Mahajan -- a fully Americanized son of Indian immigrants, they are an amusing mismatch of experience and enthusiasm, intellect and instinct, old school and new world, whose combined skills have never encountered a case that couldn’t be cleared; and all are headed by Lieutenant Maureen Mason, a strong-willed single mom struggling to balance home and work.

The men and women of Detroit Homicide are as smart and tough as they come. They have to be, working the neighborhoods of the once and future Motor City, a rebounding bastion of middle America still saddled with the highest murder rate in the country.

“Detroit 1-8-7” stars Michael Imperioli (“The Sopranos”) as Detective Louis Fitch, Jon Michael Hill as Detective Damon Washington, James McDaniel (“NYPD Blue”) as Sergeant Jesse Longford, Aisha Hinds (“True Blood”) as Lieutenant Maureen Mason, Natalie Martinez as Detective Ariana Sanchez, D.J. Cotrona as Detective John Stone, and Shaun Majumder as Detective Aman Mahajan.

The series is produced by ABC Studios. The pilot was written by Jason Richman and the executive producers are Richman, David Hoberman and Todd Lieberman, as well as executive producer David Zabel. Jeff Nachmanoff directed the pilot.

“MY GENERATION”
What a difference ten years can make. In 2000, a documentary crew follows a disparate group of high schoolers from Greenbelt High School in Austin, TX, as they prepare for graduation in the year 2000 and revisits these former classmates ten years later as they return home to rediscover that just because they’re not where they planned doesn’t mean they’re not right where they need to be.

Each of these students couldn't wait to graduate and head out into the real world. But the world they were entering got very real, very fast. As these classmates return home to revisit their old hopes for their future, they'll discover that even if you don't get exactly what you thought you wanted out of life, it’s not too late to get what you need.

“My Generation” stars Michael Stahl David as Steven, Kelli Garner as Dawn, Jaime King as Jacqueline, Keir O’Donnell as Kenneth, Sebastian Sozzi as Falcon, Mechad Brooks as Rolly, Anne Son as Caroline, Daniella Alonso as Brenda and Julian Morris as Anders.

“My Generation” was created and written by Noah Hawley (“The Unusuals,” “Bones”), who is also an executive producer along with Warren Littlefield, Henrik Bastin, Patrick Magnasson and Martin Piersson. Craig Gillespie directed the pilot. The project is from ABC Studios.

“NO ORDINARY FAMILY”
The Powells are about to go from ordinary to extraordinary. After 16 years of marriage, Jim and Stephanie’s relationship lacked the spark it once had, and their family life now consists of balancing work and their two children; leaving little time for family bonding. During a family vacation set up by Jim in an attempt to reconnect, their plane crashes into the Amazon River. But this is where the fun starts for the Powells as they soon discover that something’s not quite right. Each of them now possesses unique and distinct superpowers. But saving and savoring their family life will be equally important as they try to find purpose for their new power and embark on a journey to find out what defines and unifies them. The Powells are a totally relatable family that happens to be a little bit amazing.

Michael Chiklis (“The Shield”) stars as Jim Powell, Julie Benz (“Dexter”) as Stephanie Powell, Romany Malco (“The 40-Year-Old Virgin”) as George St. Cloud, Tate Donovan (“Damages”) as Mitch McCutcheon, Autumn Reeser as Katie Andrews, Christina Chang as Yvonne Cho, Kay Panabaker as Daphne Powell, and Jimmy Bennett as JJ Powell.

The pilot was written and executive produced by Jon Feldman and executive produced by Greg Berlanti, Morgan Wandell and David Semel, who directed the pilot. Joe Hartwick, Jr. serves as producer and the series is produced by ABC Studios.

“OFF THE MAP”
Executive producers Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers (“Grey's Anatomy,” “Private Practice”) and creator Jenna Bans (“Grey's Anatomy”) bring you an uplifting medical drama that explores how far you have to go to truly heal.

Welcome to "la ciudad de las estrellas" (the city of stars), a tiny town in the South American jungle which has one understaffed, under-stocked medical clinic. That's where idealistic young Dr. Lily Brenner just landed, along with fellow doctors Mina Minard and Manny Diaz. All of these young doctors are running away from personal demons, but they aren't the only ones with emotional baggage. Take the legendary and enigmatic Ben Keeton, who was the youngest Chief of Surgery at UCLA. He walked away from it all to found the clinic. Together with his right-hand doctor Otis Cole, he'll teach these newcomers how to save lives in the most challenging environment they've ever worked in.

In this ensemble drama, five doctors who have lost their way will go to the ends of the earth to try to remember the reasons why they wanted to become doctors in the first place.

“Off the Map” stars Martin Henderson as Ben Keeton, Caroline Dhavernas as Lily Brenner, Enrique Murciano as Manny Diaz, Mamie Gummer as Mina Minard, Jason George as Otis Cole, Valerie Cruz as Zita (Zee) and Jose Julian as Charlie.

“Off the Map” is executive produced by Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers and created/executive produced by Jenna Bans. The series is produced by ABC Studios.

“THE WHOLE TRUTH”
This unique legal drama chronicles the way a case is built from the perspective of both the defense and prosecution. Showing each side equally keeps the audience guessing, shifting allegiances of guilt or innocence until the very final scene.

Kathryn Peale, the product of a New England background and a sheriff father, is the Deputy Bureau Chief in the New York State District Attorney's office. Jimmy Brogan, born and raised in Hell's Kitchen and a friend of Kathryn's since their days at Yale Law School, is one of New York's rising criminal attorney stars. Buoyed by their respective teams, these evenly matched lawyers — each with a strong streak of competitiveness, a fervent belief in their clients and an equally intense passion for the law — go about creating two different stories from the same set of facts. As this up-close, behind-the-scenes look at the legal process mirrors the excitement of a great championship match, it becomes evident that truth has nothing to do with innocence or guilt — at the end of every trial, the only thing that matters is what the jury believes.

“The Whole Truth” stars Rob Morrow (“Numb3rs”) as Jimmy Brogan, Joely Richardson (“Nip/Tuck”) as Kathryn Peale, Eamonn Walker (“Oz”) as Sr. ADA Terrence “Edge” Edgecomb, Sean Wing as Chad Griffin, Anthony Ruivivar as Alejo Salazar and Christine Adams as Lena Boudreaux.

The series is produced by Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Jerry Bruckheimer Television and Warner Bros. Television. The pilot was written and co-executive produced by Tom Donaghy and the executive producers are Jerry Bruckheimer and Jonathan Littman, while Alex Graves was an executive producer and director for the pilot, and KristieAnne Reed serves as a co-executive producer.

COMEDY

“BETTER TOGETHER”
Maddie and Ben have been dating for nine years. They know each other inside and out, a relationship marked by contentment and affection, seeing their commitment to one another as a "valid life choice," something they proclaim often — and, often, loudly. Maddie's younger sister, Mia, has been dating Casey for seven weeks. With a shared c'est la vie attitude, Mia and Casey are smitten with each other, and thrilled to explore the oh so many things they don't know about each other yet. But when they announce they are getting married and having a baby, it's news that completely throws Maddie for a loop. Surprisingly, the girls' parents, Vicky and Joel, couldn't be more pleased. Married 35 years, they have recently adopted a carpe diem type of attitude, much like Mia's, mostly due to getting older and losing a good portion of their savings when the economy tanked. With three very different relationships tightly intertwined in one family, will it be free thinkers versus over-thinkers, or will each couple begin to see things a little bit differently?

“Better Together” stars JoAnna Garcia as Mia, Jennifer Finnigan as Maddie, Josh Cooke as Ben, Jake Lacy as Casey with Kurt Fuller as Joel and Debra Jo Rupp as Vicky.

The series is from Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Silver and Gold Productions and Warner Bros. Television. Shana Goldberg-Meehan is executive producer and writer. The pilot was directed by James Burrows.

“HAPPY ENDINGS”
Forget who gets to keep the ring – when a couple splits the real question is, who gets to keep the friends? In this modern comedy, a couple's break up will complicate all of their friends' lives and make everyone question their choices. When life throws you for a loop... hold on tight to the people you love. Every circle of friends has someone who's the gravitational center. For years, perfect couple Dave and Alex drew their friends in and held them together. Now that they've split, does this group have the stuff to stay together? Or do Max, Brad, Jane, and Penny have to choose sides? Suddenly every event is a negotiation. Like, who gets to go on the annual ski trip? There are a lot of big questions to be answered, but this group has been together so long, somehow, little by little, they'll figure out how to hold on, even though their center is split up. It helps that Dave and Alex have agreed to stay friends. But there will definitely be other complications down the road – like Penny's long-suppressed feelings for Dave. What is the waiting period for dating a friend's ex? This show isn't afraid to ask the embarrassing personal questions that inevitably arise in every long-term, close-knit group of friends.

“Happy Endings” stars Elisha Cuthbert (“24”) as Alex, Eliza Coupe as Jane, Zachary Knighton as Dave, Adam Pally as Max, Damon Wayans, Jr. as Brad and Casey Wilson as Penny.
From executive producers Jamie Tarses, Jonathan Groff, Anthony & Joe Russo, and co-executive producer David Caspe, “Happy Endings” examines the complex network of long-term friendships. The pilot was written by David Caspe and directed by Anthony & Joe Russo and is from Sony Pictures Television and ABC Studios.

“MR. SUNSHINE”
Matthew Perry stars as Ben Donovan, the self-involved manager of a second-rate San Diego sports arena, who begins to re-evaluate his life on his 40th birthday. Working alongside him is his boss and arena owner Crystal – attractive, powerful and highly erratic; Alice -- the cute, tomboyish marketing director and Ben's friend with benefits; Alonzo – a former basketball player, handsome and unbelievably happy; Ben's assistant Heather – pretty, sweet, but terrifying because she once lit a boyfriend on fire; Crystal’s son Roman – sweet-faced, clueless and Ben's newest employee; and a hapless operations crew whom Ben refers to collectively as the "Steves."

“Mr. Sunshine” stars Matthew Perry (“Friends”) as Ben, Allison Janney (“The West Wing”) as Crystal, Andrea Anders as Alice, James Lesure as Alonzo, Nate Torrence as Roman and Portia Doubleday as Heather.

Matthew Perry, Alex Barnow, Marc Firek, Jamie Tarses and Thomas Schlamme are executive producers. The Pilot was written by Matthew Perry and Alex Barnow & Marc Firek and directed by Thomas Schlamme. "Mr. Sunshine" is a Matthew Perry Production, Shoe Money Productions, Barnow and Firek Productions and FanFare Production in association with Sony Pictures Television.

ALTERNATIVE SERIES

“SECRET MILLIONAIRE”
"Secret Millionaire" is a one-hour alternative series that follows some of America's wealthiest people for one week as they leave behind their lavish lifestyles, sprawling mansions and luxury jets, conceal their true identities, and go to live and volunteer in some of the most impoverished and dangerous communities in America. Surviving on welfare wages, their mission is to discover the unsung heroes of America - deserving individuals who continually sacrifice everything to help those in need. Throughout this incredible experience, the Secret Millionaires will attempt to remain undiscovered, coming face to face with extraordinary and amazing people battling the odds every day of their lives. On the final day, in an emotional and dramatic climax, they reveal their true identities. Ultimately, the millionaires will each give away at least $100,000 of their own money, changing lives forever.

Executive Producers of “Secret Millionaire” include Grant Mansfield, Claire O'Donohoe and Leslie Garvin. Co-executive producer is Paul Osborne and it is directed by Bruce Ready. It is an RDF USA Production.

The Spotlight Turns to ABC

Today, it was ABC’s turn to take the stage and present its 2010-2011 schedule.

From the official press release, here’s a look…

MONDAY: 8:00 p.m. “Dancing with the Stars”
10:00 p.m. “Castle”

TUESDAY: 8:00 p.m. “No Ordinary Family”
9:00 p.m. “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show”
10:00 p.m. “Detroit 1-8-7”

WEDNESDAY: 8:00 p.m. “The Middle”
8:30 p.m. “Better Together”
9:00 p.m. “Modern Family”
9:30 p.m. “Cougar Town”
10:00 p.m. “The Whole Truth”

THURSDAY: 8:00 p.m. “My Generation”
9:00 p.m. “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m. “Private Practice”

FRIDAY: 8:00 p.m. “Secret Millionaire”
9:00 p.m. “Body of Proof”
10:00 p.m. “20/20”

SATURDAY: 8:00 p.m. “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY: 7:00 p.m. “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m. “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m. “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m. “Brothers & Sisters”

Notice that “V” is not on the schedule. It is slated to return mid-season or maybe as soon as November. “Supernanny” and “The Bachelor” will also return at some point. New shows slated for mid-season are “Off the Map,” “Happy Endings,” “Mr. Sunshine,” and “Secret Millionaire.”

Breaking News: CBS Drops the Ax on “Whisperer” and “Christine”

CBS is dropping the ax big time today, and it fell on two veteran shows that were probably expecting to return…

“The Hollywood Reporter” is reporting that CBS has cancelled “Ghost Whisperer” and “The New Adventures of Old Christine.”

Also getting the ax were “Cold Case,” “Numb3rs,” “Miami Medical” and “Accidentally on Purpose.” “Medium” and “Rules of Engagement” were both renewed.

There had been some talk that CBS would completely wipe out its Friday dramas, but I would’ve thought they would keep “Whisperer” over “Medium.” I’m presuming it’s a money thing.

And I don’t watch “Christine,” but I’ve got to believe that it’s funnier than “Engagement.” If I was one of the other networks, I would be on the phone trying to get my hands on “Christine” right now.

I’ll have much more on this tomorrow after CBS announces its full schedule…

Stay Tuned…

24 Days of "24": The 24 Biggest Moments Part 1

Finding the best moments from eight seasons of television is not an easy task—especially when you’re as close to the subject as I am to “24.”

But after some help from some friends and a few websites, I’ve finally come up with my list of the 24 biggest moments in “24” history, which I will share over the next few days. They’re ranked according to their significance to the show and not by personal preference. You’ll also notice that these are all good moments—no cougars allowed.

#24 Tony gets “blown up” by Mandy (Season 4)/Kim to the rescue (Season 7)

In the big picture of “24,” this moment was a pretty small one, but it’s always been one of my favorites so I had to put it on the list. Our favorite terrorist-for-hire Mandy (Mia Kirshner) returned and ended up taking Tony (Carlos Bernard) hostage. She then tried to use Tony to get his ex-wife Michelle (Reiko Aylesworth), the CTU director, to help her escape. But unlike Tony had done in the exact same situation, Michelle didn’t go along with her. And an angry Mandy appeared to blow Tony up. We knew that wasn’t what happened, but Michelle didn’t. And her anguished cry of “No” as she stumbled toward the monitor was a very powerful moment. This scene led to another powerful/scary moment when it appeared Michelle might take her own life—a scenario the writers apparently discussed.

For six seasons, Kim Bauer (Elisha Cuthbert) was known as the damsel in distress. So when she was once again a target in season 7, you couldn’t help but roll your eyes. But this time, Kim got away from the bad guys. And then she ran into a burning car to save an important piece of evidence. It was a real turning point for a despised character.

#23 The nuclear bomb goes off (Season 6)

Since it was only episode four, you never dreamed something like this would happen. After all, this was the threat Jack was going to stop. But instead a broken Jack helplessly watched the bomb go off, driving him to get back to work. As shocking as this moment was it probably deserves to go higher on the list—except that after this moment, the show went completely off the rails and has honestly never really recovered.

#22 President Taylor and Jack emerge from the White House safe room (Season 7)

The story of General Juma (Tony Scott) and his men invading the White House was a little far-fetched, but it produced some very powerful moments. And none was more powerful than when Jack emerged from the safe room with President Taylor (Cherry Jones). After watching Juma threaten her daughter, President Taylor ordered Jack to open the door. It was a moment of total defeat—especially when Juma slapped the president a few moments later. Fortunately, Jack hadn’t opened the door without a plan and with the help (and sacrifice) of Bill was able to save the day.

#21 A commercial plane is blown up by a terrorist (Season 1)

When the cast and crew of “24” was shooting the pilot, they probably thought the story was a little far-fetched. A terrorist blows up a commercial plane by sneaking in bomb parts in everyday items and killing a stewardess. But then 9/11 happened, forcing the episode to be edited and forever linking “24” with real-life events.

#20 President Logan is revealed as the villain (Season 5)

The best season in the show’s history took a very interesting turn as President Logan (Gregory Itzin) was revealed to be behind all of the day’s events, including the assassination of David Palmer. Usually a twist like this comes out of nowhere, and is simply for shock value. But this one actually made sense (At the time. The show has since messed with the story.) Plus, Itzin’s transformation was fantastic and earned him an Emmy nod (He was gipped of the award.).

#19 Slow boat to China (Season 5)/Chloe gets tough (Season 4)

It was bad enough to see Jack’s face beaten to a pulp after he was kidnapped by the Chinese. But the final scene of a boat headed to China with Jack on it was a big shocker. Too bad the writers didn’t know quite what to do with it.

When Chloe was forced to go out in the field to do some computer work, she found herself in a dangerous situation as she was shot at by assassins. With Jack talking her through it, Chloe did what she had to do, picking up the semi-automatic and blowing away the bad guys.

I’ll have my next six moments for you tomorrow…

Photo Credits: Isabella Vosmikova/FOX, Kelsey McNeal/FOX and FOX

Our First Sneak Peek at the Final Hours of "24"

If you missed it,here's the previews of next week's "24" series finale they showed at the end of tonight's episode...



HOLY CRAP!

Meet the New NBC Shows

Straight from the official press release, here are the descriptions of NBC’s new shows…

New Dramas

'THE EVENT' -- "The Event" is an emotional, high-octane conspiracy thriller that follows Sean Walker (Jason Ritter, "The Class"), an Everyman who investigates the mysterious disappearance of his fiancée, Leila (Sarah Roemer, "Disturbia"), and unwittingly begins to expose the biggest cover-up in U.S. history. Sean's quest will send ripples through the lives of an eclectic band of strangers, including: newly elected U.S. President Martinez (Golden Globe nominee Blair Underwood, "In Treatment"); Sophia (Emmy Award nominee Laura Innes, "ER"), who is the leader of a mysterious group of detainees; and Sean's shadowy father-in-law (Scott Patterson, "Gilmore Girls"). Their futures are on a collision course in a global conspiracy that could ultimately change the fate of mankind. Ian Anthony Dale ("Daybreak") and Emmy winner Željko Ivanek ("Damages") also star in the ensemble drama. "The Event" is a production of Universal Media Studios and Steve Stark Productions. Stark ("Medium," "Facing Kate") serves as executive producer, Nick Wauters ("The 4400," "Eureka") is creator/co-executive producer and Jeffrey Reiner ("Friday Night Lights," "Trauma") is the director/executive producer; Evan Katz ("24") also is an executive producer. 'UNDERCOVERS' -- Acclaimed writer/producer/director J.J. Abrams ("Star Trek," "Fringe," "Lost," "Alias") serves as co-writer, executive producer – and also directs – his first direction of a TV series pilot since "Lost" in "Undercovers" with executive producer/writer Josh Reims ("Brothers and Sisters"). "Undercovers" is a sexy, fun, action-packed spy drama that proves once and for all that marriage is still the world's most dangerous partnership. Outwardly, Steven Bloom (Boris Kodjoe, "Tyler Perry's Madea's Family Reunion," "Soul Food," "Resident Evil: Afterlife") and his wife, Samantha (Gugu Mbatha-Raw, "Doctor Who," "Bonekickers"), are a typical married couple who own a small catering company in Los Angeles and are helped by Samantha's easily frazzled younger sister, Lizzy (Jessica Parker Kennedy, "Smallville"). Secretly, the duo were two of the CIA's best spies until they fell in love on the job five years ago and retired. When fellow spy and friend Nash (Carter MacIntyre, "American Heiress") goes missing while on the trail of a Russian arms dealer, the Blooms are reinstated by boss Carlton Shaw (Gerald McRaney, "Deadwood") to locate and rescue Nash. The pair is thrust back into the world of espionage as they follow leads that span the globe -- and Steven and Samantha realize that this supercharged, undercover lifestyle provides the excitement and romance that their marriage has been missing. Also starring is Ben Schwartz (NBC's "Parks and Recreation"). "Undercovers" is from Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Bad Robot Productions and Warner Bros. Television. The pilot was written by J.J. Abrams & Josh Reims and directed by Abrams. Abrams, Reims and Bryan Burk ("Fringe," "Lost, "Alias") are the executive producers.

'THE CAPE' -- "The Cape" is a one-hour drama series starring David Lyons ("ER") as Vince Faraday, an honest cop on a corrupt police force, who finds himself framed for a series of murders and presumed dead. He is forced into hiding, leaving behind his wife, Dana (Jennifer Ferrin, "Life on Mars") and son, Trip (Ryan Wynott, "Flash Forward"). Fueled by a desire to reunite with his family and to battle the criminal forces that have overtaken Palm City, Faraday becomes "The Cape" his son's favorite comic book superhero -- and takes the law into his own hands. Rounding out the cast are James Frain ("The Tudors") as billionaire Peter Fleming -- The Cape's nemesis -- who moonlights as the twisted killer: Chess; Keith David ("Death at a Funeral") as Max Malini, the ringleader of a circus gang of bank robbers who mentors Vince Faraday and trains him to be The Cape, Summer Glau ("Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles") as Orwell, an investigative blogger who wages war on crime and corruption in Palm City; and Dorian Missick ("Six Degrees") as Marty Voyt, a former police detective and friend to Faraday. "The Cape" is a Universal Media Studios and BermanBraun production from executive producer/creator Thomas Wheeler ("Empire"), executive producer/director Simon West ("Con Air"), the executive producing team of Gail Berman and Lloyd Braun (NBC's "Mercy), and executive producer Gene Stein ("Accidentally on Purpose").

'CHASE' -- "Chase" is a fast-paced drama from Emmy Award-winning executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer ("CSI" franchise, "The Amazing Race," "Pirates of the Caribbean" films) and executive producer Jennifer Johnson ("Cold Case") that drops viewers smack into the middle of a game of cat-and-mouse as a team of U.S. marshals hunts down America's most dangerous fugitives. Kelli Giddish ("Past Life") stars as U.S. Marshal Annie Frost, a cowboy boot-wearing deputy whose sharp mind and unique Texas upbringing help her track down the violent criminals on the run. Cole Hauser ("K-Ville"), Amaury Nolasco ("Prison Break"), Rose Rollins ("The L Word") and Jesse Metcalfe ("Desperate Housewives") also star as members of Frost's elite team. "Chase" is produced by Bonanza Productions Inc., in association with Jerry Bruckheimer Television and Warner Bros. Television. Bruckheimer, Jonathan Littman ("CSI" franchise, "The Amazing Race," "Cold Case") and Johnson serve as executive producers, while KristieAnne Reed is co-executive producer. David Nutter ("The Mentalist," "Without a Trace" "The X-Files") directed and is executive producer of the pilot that was written by Johnson.

'OUTLAW' -- Starring Emmy Award winner Jimmy Smits ("NYPD Blue," "The West Wing"), "Outlaw" is a new drama from executive producer John Eisendrath ("Alias," "Felicity," "Playmakers"). Cyrus Garza (Smits) is a U.S. Supreme Court justice who abruptly quits the high-level position. A playboy and a gambler, Garza had always adhered to a strict interpretation of the law until he realized the system he believed in was flawed. Now that he's quit the bench and returned to private practice, he's determined to represent "the little guy" and use his inside knowledge of the justice system to take on today's biggest legal cases -- and he's making plenty of powerful people unhappy along the way. Jesse Bradford ("The West Wing"), Carly Pope ("24"), Ellen Woglom ("Californication") and David Ramsey ("Dexter") also star. "Outlaw" is a Universal Media Studios production along with Conaco productions. Eisendrath is executive producer along with Terry George ("Hotel Rwanda," "Reservation Road"), Conan O'Brien, Jeff Ross and David Kissinger ("Andy Barker, P.I."). "Outlaw" is written by Eisendrath and directed by George.

'HARRY'S LAW' -- Emmy Award-winning creator David E. Kelley ("The Practice," "Boston Legal") brings his unique storytelling to "Harry's Law," a series about fate and the people it brings together, starring Academy Award winner Kathy Bates ("Misery," "About Schmidt"). Harriet (Bates), Matthew (Ben Chaplin, "Me and Orson Wells") and Malcolm (Aml Ameen, "Kidulthood") couldn't be any more different. Harriet is a curmudgeonly ex-patent lawyer who, having just been fired from her cushy job, is completely disillusioned with her success and looking for a fresh start. Her world unexpectedly collides with Malcolm's -- a young man trying to figure out life. When he finds out Harriet is a lawyer, he begs her to represent him in an upcoming criminal case. Matthew, a dreamer at heart and also recently fired from his job as a high school teacher, is introduced to Harriet through Malcolm, a previous student of his. When these three cross paths, they realize they're all looking for a fresh start. Now, the most unlikely of people are starting a law practice in the most unlikely of places--a rundown shoe store. "Harry's Law" also stars Brittany Snow ("Hairspray") as Harriet's assistant, Jenna Backstrom and Beatrice Rosen ("Dark Knight") as Eve, a high school French teacher."Harry's Law" is produced by Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with David E. Kelley Productions and Warner Bros. Television. David E. Kelley ("Boston Legal," "The Practice") and Bill D'Elia ("Boston Legal," "The Practice") serve as executive producers. D'Elia also is the director.

'LAW & ORDER: LOS ANGELES' -- The new "Law & Order: Los Angeles" is a procedural crime drama that will follow the theme and storylines similar to the "Law & Order"-brand series on the streets of Los Angeles. The series, from executive producer Dick Wolf and Blake Masters "("Brotherhood"), is a Wolf Films production in association with Universal Media Studios. Casting and pre-production work are continuing.

New Comedy Series
"PERFECT COUPLES' -- "Perfect Couples" depicts the misadventures of three engaging couples as they struggle to find out what makes the ideal relationship -- and how to maintain it through humorous trial-and-error. The series explores their heroic journey in search of the perfect relationship without destroying each other in the process. Dave (Kyle Howard, "My Boys") and Julia (Christine Woods, "Flash Forward") are the relatable, normal couple, but Julia's hope of remaining the cool, low-maintenance chick is tested by Dave's attempts to keep both his wife and his needy best friend Vance (David Walton, "Heist") equally happy. Vance, along with the neurotic Amy (Mary Elizabeth Ellis, "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia"), are the high-passion, high-drama couple who bring out the best and worst in each other. The third duo features Rex (Hayes MacArthur, "She's Out of My League"), a reformed party guy, and, and his wife, Leigh (Olivia Munn, "Attack of the Show"), who considers herself as the group's mother hen. Believing that they are relationship experts, Rex and Leigh have attended every class and seminar on relationships -- and regard themselves as the "perfect couple." Jon Pollack ("30 Rock") and Scott Silveri ("Friends") are the executive producers while Andy Ackerman ("Seinfeld," "The New Adventures of Old Christine") is the director. The series is produced by Universal Media Studios.

'OUTSOURCED' -- "Outsourced" is a comedy where the Midwest meets the exotic East in a hilarious culture clash. The series centers on the all-American company Mid America Novelties that sells whoopee cushions, foam fingers and wallets made of bacon -- and whose call center has suddenly been outsourced to India. Todd Dempsy (Ben Rappaport, off-Broadway's "The Gingerbread House") is the new company's manager who learns that he's being transferred to India to run the operation. Overwhelmed, Todd discovers that his new staff needs a crash course in all things American if they are to understand the U.S. product line and ramp up sales from halfway around the world. But as strange as America seems to his eclectic sales team, Todd soon realizes that figuring out India will be more than a full-time job. Rizwan Manji ("Privileged"), Sacha Dhawan (BBC's "Five Days II"), Rebecca Hazlewood (BBC's "Doctors"), Parvesh Cheena ("Help Me Help You"), and Anisha Nagarajan (Broadway's "Bombay Dreams") also star as members of Dempsy's off-shore team; Diedrich Bader ("The Drew Carey Show") and Jessica Gower (Network Ten's "The Secret Life of Us") additionally star. "Outsourced" is produced by Universal Media Studios. Robert Borden ("The Drew Carey Show" and "George Lopez") is executive producer/writer. Ken Kwapis ("The Office") developed the project through his company, In Cahoots, and serves as executive producer/director. Alex Beattie serves as co-executive producer.

'THE PAUL REISER SHOW' -- "The Paul Reiser Show" is a new single camera comedy from Emmy and Golden Globe nominated comedian-author-producer-actor Paul Reiser ("Mad About You") and writer-producer Jonathan Shapiro ("Life"). The show stars Paul Reiser as…Paul Reiser. It's been a few years since Paul's hit TV series went off the air. Since then, he's been enjoying the quiet life at home with his lovely wife and kids and generally minding his own business. Lately, however, Paul has been thinking that it's time he did something new, something meaningful. As to what that next thing might be, he has no idea. In his quest to figure it out, Paul is helped and hindered by his new "friends." Like most men his age, Paul didn't choose these friends. They're the husbands of his wife's friends, the dads of kids that his boys go to school with. Thrown together by circumstance, Paul and his friends form an unlikely comradeship -- and a horrible basketball team. In addition to Reiser, Ben Shenkman ("Angels in America") stars as Jonathan, Omid Djalili ("The Infidel") as Habib, Duane Martin ("All of Us") as Fernando, Andrew Daly ("MADtv") as Brad, Amy Landecker ("A Serious Man") as Claire, Brock Waidmann as Zeke and Koby Rouviere ("Greenberg") as Gabe. The pilot is executive produced and written by Reiser and Shapiro, produced by Craig Knizek ("Mad About You"), Merri Howard ("Cold Case") and Peter Safran ("Heist"), and directed by Bryan Gordon ("Curb Your Enthusiasm"). "The Paul Reiser Show" is a production of Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Nuance Productions and Warner Bros. Television.

'FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS' -- From Oscar and Emmy winner Brian Grazer ("A Beautiful Mind," "Arrested Development"), "Friends With Benefits" is a half-hour comedy revolving around a group of twenty-something singles as they navigate the difficult, and often confusing, world of dating. Ben Weymouth (Ryan Hansen, "Party Down") is on the hunt for the perfect woman who meets his unique set of standards, while his best friend, Sara Maxwell (Danneel Harris, "One Tree Hill"), is just looking for a man to settle down with and raise a family. Ben and Sara have fallen into the habit of turning to each other for moral and physical support as they wait for Mr. and Ms. Right to arrive. Their friend Aaron (Fran Kranz, "Dollhouse"), a romantic at heart, doesn't approve of Ben and Sara's complicated friendship, but he, along with womanizer Hoon (Ian Reed Kesler) and straight shooter Riley (Jessica Lucas, "Cloverfield"), are all distracted with their own dating trials and tribulations. David Nevins ("Lie to Me," "Arrested Development") joins Grazer as executive producer for Imagine Television. Also serving as executive producers are David Dobkin ("Wedding Crashers"), who directs the pilot, writers Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber ("(500) Days of Summer"), and Jeff Kleeman. "Friends With Benefits" is a production of 20th Century Fox Television, Imagine Television and Big Kid Pictures.

New One-Hour Comedy Series

'LOVE BITES' – From Emmy Award-winning writer-producer Cindy Chupack ("Sex and the City"), "Love Bites" is an hour-long romantic comedy anthology series featuring three loosely connected, modern stories of love, sex, marriage and dating. Each episode contains multiple vignettes, all illuminating the theme of love with an edgy, irreverent spin. Becki Newton ("Ugly Betty") stars as Annie and Jordana Spiro ("My Boys") stars as Frannie, the last two single girls standing after all of their friends get married. Annie is an infectiously bubbly optimist and Frannie is an always-a-bridesmaid realist. Their story will anchor the series, while other romantically-challenged characters will come and go each week. The pilot's guest cast includes Jennifer Love Hewitt ("Ghost Whisperer"), Greg Grunberg ("Heroes"), Craig Robinson ("The Office"), Jason Lewis ("Sex and the City"), Lindsay Price ("Lipstick Jungle"), Larry Wilmore ("The Daily Show"), Charlyne Yi ("Knocked Up"), Pamela Adlon ("Californication"), Stacy Galina ("Hidden Hills"), Brian Hallisay ("Privileged"), Kyle Howard ("My Boys") and Steve Howey ("Bride Wars"). "Love Bites" is a production of Universal Media Studios and Working Title Television, which is a new division of Working Title Films (the U.K. production company behind box office hits including "Love Actually," "Bridget Jones's Diary" and "Four Weddings and a Funeral"). Chupack is creator, executive producer and writer. Emmy Award-winning producer-director Marc Buckland ("My Name Is Earl") also is executive producer and directs the pilot. Eric Fellner, Tim Bevan and Shelley McCrory from Working Title Television are executive producers. "Love Bites" is Working Title Television's first U.S. commission.

New Alternative Series

'SCHOOL PRIDE' – From executive producers Cheryl Hines ("Curb Your Enthusiasm") and Denise Cramsey ("Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" and "True Beauty"), "School Pride" is a proactive, alternative series that tells the stories of communities coming together to renovate their aging and broken public schools. While transforming the school, the community also restores its sense of value and school pride. The cameras follow students, teachers and parents as they roll up their sleeves and rebuild their own schools, concluding with the unveiling of a brand new, completely transformed school. They are motivated by a quartet of community organizers and personalities -- SWAT Commander Tom Stroup, interior designer Susie Castillo ("House of Payne"), comedian and former substitute teacher Kym Whitley ("Til Death") and political correspondent Jacob Soboroff ("AMC News"). Together, the team of experts will lead the community through the makeover process. Months later, cameras will revisit the school to discover the lasting effects of the transformation -- a renewed sense of school pride and an increase in student achievement scores. "School Pride" is produced by Horizon Alternative Television.