Grey's Anatomy

Last night's episode of Grey's Anatomy was much better than the season premiere. I'm totally over the love triangle of Meredith-McDreamy-McVet. Besides, since Chris O'Donnell will only be around for a couple of more episodes, it's already written who her ultimate choice will be. I did admire Meredith's stance to "date" before choosing one guy over the other. Let that be a lesson to all women. Men have no problem "dating" more than one woman at a time. I think we should give it a try, too! Diahann Carroll looks for worse for the wear than her days of playing another "you're not good enough for my child" mother on A Different World. I think Cristina has finally met her match. I don't want Burke's mom to run her off, because I like them as a couple, but this could be the challenge their relationship needs to see if it's going to survive (and if Burke, who seems to be a mama's boy, will stand up to her and choose Cristina). I love how Callie is being integrated into the group. Big ups to her for claiming the panties to save Meredith. Meredith certainly didn't deserve it, but Callie is a loyal person, so she took the L on her behalf. Plus, now that she's been kicked out of her hospital "apartment," looks like she's moving into Meredith's house with the rest of the gang. My favorite scene of the episode:
Alex: So you and O'Malley? How did that happen?
Callie: You a surgeon? How'd that happen?
Callie gets the best material to work with. Plus, cellulite was the guest-star of the night on ABC. First on Ugly Betty then, Callie showing her stuff here. I love it. Yes, that's what real women look like, thank you very much.
I really wanted one of Izzie's muffins - they looked delicious. I'm glad to see she's finally working through her pain. Hopefully by next week she'll be back on her feet and back at the hospital. I shed real, hot tears when Bailey came over to the house and said she accepted partial blame for what happened to Denny because she became "soft" after having her baby. A classic moment in Grey's Anatomy history. "Enough muffins."
Finally, Derek and Addison are done (fingers crossed). When McSteamy stepped out of the (literally!) steamy bathroom (BARELY wearing a towel - thank you Shonda Rhimes!), my mouth fell open. Go 'head and get your groove back Addie. For a moment there, I felt that McDreamy was going to offer his wife a chance for reconciliation, but McSteamy sealed the deal. "I feel much better now." I certainly did after watching the show.

A few works on Six Degrees: It's becoming a bit of a stretch connecting these six people. As much as I had hoped last week to see more of Damian brother, he's annoying. Love, love, love Zoe Saldana, but what's her purpose here? How can a nanny just decide on her own that her charge isn't going to school today? I'm most curious about the connection between the photographer and the grieving widow - wasn't that a picture of her he had? How do they connect? We need more of Jay Hernandez - he's definitely the bright spot here. It's so painfully obvious that Whitney's guy is a dud. I want to reach through the screen, shake her by the shoulders and tell her, "he's just not that into you." I know that when that relationship goes belly-up, she's going to run right into the arms of her rogue photographer. This show has promise, but it's becoming too obvious and two-dimensional. I'll keep watching and hope for better.

Ugly Betty season premiere!

Ugly Betty not only lived up to the hype, it exceeded all expectations. America Ferrara is stunning as "ugly" Betty. The camera certainly loves her face. Tonight's episode felt like a page (or two) was ripped from my diary. I'm not going to get into specifics of how eerily similar Betty and I are, but needless to say, I identify with her stronger than I ever imagined possible. I could wax on poetically for hours on everything I liked about the show (how about everything!), but I'll highlight some of my favorite moments:
Salma Hayek's starring role in the cheesy telenovela Betty's dad loves to watch...great way to do double duty Salma, as producer and guest-star!
Vanessa L. Williams is simply delicious as the bitchy Wilhemina. I was not surprised to see her romping in bed with the photographer and that, my friends, is only one example of how devious I think her character is going to get. I love her latchkey, Marc, who also doubles as Botox injector! Vanessa looks great...we should all hope to look as good as she does as her age. I like the white wardrobe motif. It helps to contrast her with the rest of the cast and is ironic given how devilish she is.
Hey Caleb Nichols...oops, I mean, Bradford Meade. Was anyone else having The O.C. flashbacks? I had no idea he was going to be on this show. What a pleasant surprise! Very much not dead Fey Summers must have some real dirt on him! I can't wait to see how it plays out.
Betty's metrosexual young nephew is the gay man (here, in training) every woman needs in her life. And her bossy sister reminds me of my own, always up in my business, telling me what to do, particularly about my love life.
Speaking of which, Betty handled the deadbeat boyfriend situation realistically. She could have chosen to mope around and go the "woe is me" route, but she didn't let it get her down. Despite her willingness to bend over backward at work to get the job done, she takes no prisoners in her personal life. Hopefully, those flashes of moxie will play out at work as well. My favorite scene was when she marched over to skanky Gina's house to break up the love tryst (oops, wrong guy) but slammed the door so hard, Gina's expensive plasma TV skidded down the wall and crashed to the floor. DEAD!
Betty's quick-save of her boss, giving him credit for the Fabia campaign idea, was sweet. I hope Daniel appreciates Betty and won't continue to take advantage her. He needs all the help he can get to deal with Wilhelmina.
Please, please, please bring Gina Gershon back again. She was hilarious - a cross between Donatella Versace and Paris Hilton!
Betty's Australian (is that right?) friend is cool. For a second there, I thought she was working against Betty, but I'm glad she's going to turn out to be an ally.
Overall, Ugly Betty is fabulous. I laughed, I cried, I loved. That's what TV should be about!

No more "Love"

Though I think it's the worst show in the history of TV, I'd be remiss to not comment on Flavor of Love. Here's some good news. Flavor Flav has said that enough is enough and plans to put the show to rest after the conclusion of the third season. Praises!

About last night...

Before I start talking about last night....tonight is the highly anticipated series premiere of Ugly Betty. I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am for this show. I love, love, LOVE America Ferrara and since I'm in the magazine industry (hint, hint) I know I will definitely be able to relate to this show. Come back tomorrow for my (glorious) review of tonight's episode.

So, on to last night's festivities. I despise Monique on America's Next Top Model. If only the girls could be voted off based on their behind-the-scenes behavior, Tyra would have every right to get rid of her. But, the girls are judged primarily on their photos and modeling performance, so she's still here. Imagine if real models were judged based on their off-camera or off-runway antics. Naomi Campbell would be in the poor house!
The makeovers went well, though OUCH to Anchul's hair threading. It hurts just when I do my eyebrows, so I can't even imagine the pain she endured getting her hairline threaded, but the results were subtle, yet dramatic - good call Tyra, queen of the five-finger forehead! I *heart" Jaeda's "Halley Berry-esque" cut. I totally want to do that to my hair, and seeing it on her is giving me the courage to make the plunge. I was laughing my toosh off at Monique dramatics and crocodile tears because she didn't want anyone to see her without her weave. Girl, please. Who were you fooling? Long-time fans of Top Model will recall a similar stunt pulled by Cycle 1 contestant Robin, who was trying to pass her weave off as real hair. The expression on those White girl's faces when the jig came up was priceless. I'm glad that someone finally called these ungrateful girls out on their behavior. Jay Manuel read them the riot act after tiring of their bitching and whining about their makeovers. Do you know how many women, myself included, would kill, or at least sell a limb, for an opportunity like that?
Queen Latifah was under-utilized in her quick guest-appearance. I would have loved for her to stick around to be one of the judges, or at least, since her whole spiel is about self-esteem in women, to talk to them about that. Note to the Queen: How about you doing your own version of Top Model, but for full-figured women? That would be hot! I was so happy that Monique missed the elevator, but what was up with her mom, or whomever she was talking to during her 3-hour marathon phone session, talking about "don't mess with a child of God?" Who are you talking about? Not Monique, the girl who stole another person's bed and proceeded to spill water on the comforter to make it seem like she peed on it. "Child of God" would not exactly be the words I'd use to describe her. Of all the girls, Jaeda has the most potential to succeed and I hope that being in the bottom two this week will push her to move beyond the blank stare and start showing her stuff. Stay tuned...

I was totally prepared for Michael to be Auf'd on Project Runway last night. And you know, how much I LOVE Michael. He's slipped considerably during the past few weeks, and I'd hate to think that his brief success went to his head. I agree with Michael Kors - Michael's strength is sportswear - so what was he doing with his hideous evening gown last night? It wasn't even cute. All of the contestants seemed dazed and confused. I guess their creative juices are dried up, but this would be the time for those juices to kick into high gear now that we're coming down to the end, with the potential to create a whole collection for the Fashion Week runway show. Even Jeffrey, designer to all street-walkers and ladies of the night, tried to whip up some "romantic" frilly dress. So not his style. I think Uli summed it up best when she said that they had all become used to designing with restrictions, the freedom to do whatever they wanted was paralyzing. That does not bode well for any designer when they can't come up with their own creation and run with it. I wouldn't be too upset if Michael didn't win. Besides, I saw all four collections presented at Fashion Week last week, and his was honestly the worst of the four. I think the final decision will come down between Jeffery and Uli, who are very strong designers, and had the best collections at the fashion show. This felt like a throwaway episode, particularly since no one left. And next week is another, the reunion episode. I see that Heidi and Bravo are going the route of MTV/Real World/Road Rules and trying to milk the cow dry. I don't mind, really, because you know I'll be there for the finale to see who wins. Stay tuned...

About last night...

Vivica continues to excel on Dancing with the Stars, but she needs to cut the dramatics. There's no need to break down into tears at every compliment or word of praise thrown her way. Also, the 1920's finger-waves were less "Dorothy Dandridge" than just plain old-school. I'd like to see Vivica update her look. Dressing and styling her hair in these old-fashioned styles only makes her look and appear older than she already is. I've seen Vivica rock the red carpet in some cute stuff, so I know she can pull it off. Emmitt Smith is still tops on my list - watching him waltz across the dance floor is like a breath of fresh air. My other two faves are Mario Lopez and Joe (umm...Joey) Lawrence.

Nip/Tuck was back on track last night. I was growing weary of all the ruminations and sexual identity crises. Things were very much back to normal. Julia was back to being the selfish mother she's known to be. I wasn't too pleased with her self-diagnosis of postpartum depression. It's a very serious condition, not to be taken lightly, but she seemed just to be looking for an excuse to pop some pills and ease her worries, while leaving her baby in a lurch. I was a bit spooked by the angel/devil scene with Sean, but it was great to see two enigmatic characters (Megan and Escobar) back, even for just a little while. I don't believe Michelle's story. I think there's more to it than she's letting on to Christian, but I knew he'd get the girl in the end. Christian always gets the girl. I was totally unprepared for Shari Noble's (played brilliantly by Melissa Gilbert) love affair with her dog. Yuck, yuck and triple yuck! She deserved to have her nipple bitten off for that. You really have to suspend reality when you're watching Nip/Tuck. For example, the male nurse (have we learned his name yet?) was painting that (hideous) mural on the wall while Conor was sleeping right underneath him in his crib. What about the chemicals and fumes? Hello...that's hazardous, but it didn't bother Julia or Sean. I think Liz's kidney harvesting experience will come to play full-force as the season progresses. How about a kidney stealer on the loose, as was last year's Carver? Stay tuned...

Tragedy

TVnista has learned that our favorite TV couple, Rev. Run and Justine of MTV's Run's House, suffered an incredible loss last night. TMZ.com is reporting that their newborn baby girl was born with organs outside her body and died shortly after birth. Justine's pregnancy was last season's cliffhanger and a third season was in the works for viewers who have been anxiously following the pregnancy and awaiting the birth.

My prayers are with the family during this difficult time.

What are we watching?

Over the weekend, I stumbled upon a new show on MTV called Parental Control. The premise is that parents finally get a say in who their son or daughter dates. The parents send their child on two blind dates in hopes that he or she will choose one of them and dump his or her girlfriend. In the episode I saw, the son chose to stay with his girlfriend who bickered with his mom constantly. Needless to say, mom was disappointed that he didn't choose the girl she picked for him. It seems like an alright show, typical MTV fare perfect to catch on a rainy weekend marathon in between episodes of Laguna Beach and Real World/Road Rules Challenge, but MTV kills me with all this reality programming...where are the "music videos?"

I was torn last night between watching North Country with Charlize Theron on HBO, and catching the season premieres of Cold Case and Desperate Housewives. From what I saw of Cold Case, it's definitely coming back strong. Desperate Housewives looks like it's finally returning to the confident swagger of the first season. Susan didn't annoy me as much as usual and her scene with a comatose Mike in this hospital bed was poignant. Bree's sexual awakening was hilarious, and all too real, as a majority of women never reach "the promised land" or it takes years to get there, as in Bree's case. Bree seems to have the worst luck with men - now her fiancé is accused of murdering his wife, and I believe it. Lynette's deft handling of her husband's baby mama is a cautionary tale for anyone even thinking of dating or marrying a man with kids - DON'T!

So far this season, the penis count is two-for-two. Last week it was Mayor Royce; this week, Omar. What can I say about The Wire that hasn't already been said? It's the best show on TV. Last night's episode didn't disappoint. The neighbors scurrying away in fear from Omar on his cereal run to the corner store was all the more ironic given that he was unarmed...unfortunately the gun didn't go with this outfit. McNulty's turnaround from bad to good is becoming a bit disturbing. I think that there's more to that 180 degree turn than meets the eye. And, while he's playing daddy to his girlfriend's kids, where are his own sons? Prez is in so way over his head with these students. I think Prez represents the viewing audience who is also watching in awe and stunned by what these children are capable of. Marlo is such a charismatic young fellow, and I see Michael as his protégé in the making. I fear, yet can't wait to see what happens, when Marlo and Michael link up. It's inevitable. I feel kind of bad for Bodie, but he can't hold it down on his own. He too may have to join forces with Marlo. I'm glad "Amsterdam" Colvin is back and I feel that he represents the intentions of The Wire's producers, who know that the best way to understand why drugs, violence and crime is so prevalent in the ghetto is to look beyond the current crop of drug dealers and gang bangers - they're already lost. Any hope rests on the shoulders of the younger kids in middle school and junior high, and to get to them before they turn to life on the streets. My heart literally broke when Dukie turned his little fan to blow on the face of the girl who slashed the face of her fellow student who had been taunting and teasing her. While everyone is busy tending to the victim, only Dukie pays attention to the angry girl. Perhaps he wishes he had the strength and courage to do what she did.

Say it ain't so....

According to eurweb.com, Mara Brock Akil, executive producer of Girlfriends, and showrunner for the new spinoff, The Game, is being sued by Staci Robinson who claims that The Game's plot closely resembles her unpublished book, similarly titled, "Game." In a lawsuit filed Sept. 14 in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles, Robinson seeks $40 million from Akil, other producers on the show, the CW and its owners. Robinson also seeks a temporary restraining order to prevent the network from airing the series, which is scheduled to premiere next Sunday, October 1. In her lawsuit, Robinson says she showed Akil a manuscript of her novel in 2001, when she interviewed for a writers assistant job at Kelsey Grammer's Grammnet Productions. Akil and Grammnet are named as defendants in the suit, along with CW and its owners, CBS and Warner Bros. Both the novel and show follow a woman who is torn between her college dreams and a love interest in the NFL, according to the suit.

I really hope that this is just a coincidence. I have the utmost respect for Mara Brock Akil and I'm sure she wouldn't intentionally steal Staci Robinson's idea and make it her own. I'll definitely be keeping on top of this story. Stay tuned....

Green light means go!

HBO has given a green light to a fourth, 12-episode season of Entourage. The inside-Hollywood spoof about Vincent Chase and his posse of hanger-ons will return next year for the final 8 episodes of the interrupted third season. Good news for those of us who can't get enough of the friendly-banter between Ari and Drama!

MTV has also greenlit eight half-hour episodes of Adventures in Hollywood, a reality series that will tail Academy Award-winning rap group Three 6 Mafia. Umm...not really sure what this is going to be about, but expect a lot of haze and hoes!

About last night...

Despite my excitement that Grey's Anatomy is back, I can't let that overshadow my disappointment with last night's season premiere. Overall, the episode was uneven. I understand that it's been four months since the last new episode, but I felt like I was watching a recap episode. None of the storylines were really advanced beyond were we left off in May. I get it, we pick up just hours after last season ended, but why? Couldn't we have a few days, a week, or month in between to see the growth and development of the characters in the interim? It felt stale. First of all, those flashbacks. I'm sorry, but Grey's is not Lost (and that's a good thing.) The flashbacks seemed kind of random and for me, didn't add much to the story. It's not as important to me how the interns all met, just that they met. It doesn’t really help me understand any better the relationship between Derek and Addison to see what happened the night he walked in on her having sex with his best friend. She cheated...end of story. I particularly did not like the flashback to when Christina introduced herself to Burke for the first time. If that were me, there would be no way I'd end up with him. He treated her so coldly and with such disinterest. But now, they're in a relationship? Too cold and hot for my taste. Izzy was still pining away for Denny. OK, Denny died. Right. So, now what? Is lying on the bathroom floor going to help? No, not really. I was really surprised by Izzy's behavior last night. She's always been the most pro-active of the interns but she stalled last night. Maybe the old Izzy will be back next week, because she did finally peel herself off the floor and say "I'm ready." Finally...it took you a whole hour to realize that. One of the reasons ER began to flounder was because the focus shifted from the emergency room to the private lives of the characters. Grey's always seemed to maintain a fine balance between both, but that was broken last night, since most of the action took place in Meredith's house. Why weren't Meredith or Christina on duty? There was an outbreak of the flu/plague at the hospital, yet they're sitting shiva at home. Also, this whole "outbreak of the plague" was handled all wrong. Once again, where was the urgency? It's the freaking plague, people. I would have rather seen the interns running around the hospital working on that than hanging around the house making sandwiches and lying on the bathroom floor. One last thing that bothered me...the complete randomness of the chief's wife showing up, all out of the blue, with an ultimatum to choose her or the hospital. She said she made an appointment because she had something important to tell him. What...are you pregnant? got cancer? No, she wants him to retire. It felt completely out of place.

About Addison...the woman we all want to hate but just can't, because she tops Meredith anyday, despite cheating on McDreamy. I have a nagging suspicion that this abandoned baby storyline will reverberate throughout the season. I sensed Addison's baby hunger, but I don't think that McDreamy is going to fulfill that need in her. (Or, going on a longshot here...perhaps she's already been pregnant and lost the baby. Call me crazy, but it seems plausible. And no, the baby's father was NOT McDreamy!).

There were some things to like though, namely Callie. I'm glad she's going to be a regular on the show because there's a lot about her to love. She had the best lines last night: "I'm a total freak. I'm that girl in the back of the class who eats her hair.”; “I'm gonna leave the room for a long period of time for no reason whatsoever.” ; and the killer..."This is 7th grade but with scalpels." Chandra Wilson was robbed, robbed I tell you, of an Emmy. Last night was enough to (hopefully) guarantee her a win for next year. The vulnerability the usually tough Nazi/Bailey showed last night was the best acting of the night. I teared up slightly when she identified Denny's body and whispered to him, "I'm sorry." But the tears really came down when she tried to comfort a distraught Omar when his wife died, asking him to put his hand on hers through the glass panel on the door. Steve Harris' performance last night was so raw. Interesting how the two people who lost loved ones reacted so differently last night...Izzy on the bathroom floor and Omar crying, ranting and hyperventilating.

Grey's is still #1 in my book, so I'm not ready to give up. I know it will get even better as the season progresses. I'll treat last night's episode as Part I to a two-parter that will conclude next week and hope that once we get all this old stuff out of the way, we can move on with these characters. Stay tuned...

Six Degrees looks very promising. I like the direction the show is going in, the pacing works and the characters are believable. I'm glad Carlos is leading the show. His sweet, wide-eyed optimism is encouraging. I've been a fan of Jay Hernandez for a long time, ever since I saw him in the fantastic movie "Crazy/Beautiful" with Kirsten Dunst. I'm intrigued by how these characters' lives will intersect and I can't wait to get to know them better. There seems to be a lot of mystery brewing within each character and if the writing and acting continue to hold up, it will be a very compelling show. Why is Mae on the run? From her parents? Who is the guy giving her advice on the phone? At first, I thought that Laura's husband was still in Iraq, but when she rewound the tape, it became brutally apparent that he really won't be coming back. I think Whitney will learn a tough lesson about love with her boyfriend who just so happens to have a profile on a dating website - trust, that's happened to a LOT of women, you'd be surprised. I hope Damien doesn't succumb to a clichéd illegal lifestyle to pay off his debts but I hope his brother, played by Michael K. Williams, will be a recurring character. I'll be watching....stay tuned...

About last night...

First up is America's Next Top Model, or rather The Tyra Banks Show: What you didn't see on air. I read in Entertainment Weekly that since cycle 7 of Top Model was filmed while Tyra was on hiatus from her talk show, Tyra is more involved in this season, and it's evident here that Tyra had wayyy too much time on her hands. I have a confession: I actually prefer when Tyra takes a back seat and lets the drama unfold amongst the model contenders. I always used to cringe when Tyra would come to the house and play "den mother," having her one-on-one conversations with the girls to get them to confess their deepest secrets and insecurities. Tyra was all over this season premiere. She was "imitating" bad model behavior in a very bizarre simulation and then insisted on fixing all of the models' clothes when they came up for critique of their photos. It was annoying. And while I'm at it...this show has not been the same since the first season, and you want to know why...Kimora Lee Simmons. Get rid of Twiggy and bring KLS back, and Janice too. I was surprised that Christian was shown the door so quickly - of all the "Black girls" I liked her best - no comment on Monique who stole a bed and proceeded to mark her territory by pouring water on the comforter and saying she peed on it. Either of the twins are the front runner, since their look is the one popularized by fashion magazines like Vogue. Oh...and is Tyra really doing a magazine or was it just as a prop for the show? I've heard that she may be trying to go the Rosie/Oprah/Martha Stewart and start her own magazine. Given that the past two or three seasons of Top Model have been dry, due to the casting, this season looks promising since these girls have really distinct personalities. It's a good mix, so I'll be tuning in for all the drama sure to follow. I'll just have to close my eyes when Tyra comes on the screen....

I didn't get the memo that Project Runway would be a repeat.

I was a bit underwhelmed by Kidnapped. It was a little boring. I felt like it wasn't moving fast enough. Given that a 15-year-old boy had been kidnapped at gunpoint, his driver shot in the head and the bodyguard left for dead in the middle of the street, there was no sense of urgency. Everyone seemed to be moving in slow motion. I didn't feel that the parents were worried or even cared that their son was gone...if anything, Ellie, the mom seemed somewhat relieved, and proceeded to get on the phone with whom - I'm thinking either a current or ex-boyfriend. Woman...where are your priorities? Conrad and Ellie don't even seem to like each other, but then again, that could just be the normal state of their (and most) marriage. I just wish the pacing was more intense, but I'm willing to stick with it, because I like the supporting characters, including a surprise appearance from Audra McDonald. I've always been a fan of Delroy Lindo and I like the pairing with Jeremy Sisto. Carmen Ejogo (Jeffrey Wright's wife) is breathtakingly beautiful and she seems to have some spunk and attitude that was sorely missing from last night's episode. The only time the show brightens is when Jeremy Sisto (yes, Elton from Clueless) is around, so I'm willing to stick it out and see if he can bring Leopold home. Stay tuned...

About last night...

So, I missed Dancing with the Stars. My bad! But I promise to watch the results show tonight for the recap.

I did watch Nip/Tuck, though. The tenuous relationship between Christian and Sean is slowly unraveling. I wasn't sure if Christian's unwillingness to stand by his partner and best friend was because (a) nagging feelings of doubt about his sexual identity, or (b) discomfort with the pending birth of a disabled child, or (c) pure selfishness. Either way, I sense that Sean has had enough and realizes that he will have to find a way to stand on his own, without Christian. I knew that the heavy flirtation between Sean and nanny-candidate Monica in the car would lead to him cheating on Julia. It wasn't surprising - I know a couple who had a similar experience. The wife was having a very difficult pregnancy and on bed rest, while the husband was left out in the cold to fend for himself and ultimately had an affair. Not to say that it's right, but it was a normal reaction under the circumstances. I really dislike how both Sean and Christian use free plastic surgery as either a reward or pay-off - what message are we sending where major surgery is treated so casually and without consequence?
I'm growing a bit weary of the sexual ambiguity surrounding Christian. The pseudo-porn shower scene with Mario Lopez served what purpose, really, other than to showcase two bare behinds. If Christian is going to be gay, then let him be gay. This back and forth is annoying. The previews for next week's episode show him swinging back to the hetero side, as he tries to woo Michelle. I don't think he genuinely wants to be with her, rather Christian always wants what he can't have. I could see Michelle's firing of Liz coming from 10 miles away. I'm curious to learn more about Michelle, her back story, and where this mystery woman hits in.
Baby Conner was born with ectrodactyly and Julia wants to hire the "height-challenged" male nurse, who seems to have a crush on her. Nip/Tuck never fails to disappoint with intriguing storylines and shocking scenarios. Stay tuned...

News & Notes...

Hollywood Reporter says that Christina Vidal has come on board the CW's comedy Girlfriends as a recurring character, playing a tough celebrity fitness trainer. Remember her from Nickelodeon's Taina? I have to admit it, I watched that show religiously. I figured Jill Marie Jones was going to be replaced, but I'm not clear on what direction they're going in with the addition of Christina Vidal...

In other news...expect a very-Brady Thanksgiving on Everybody Hates Chris. Wayne Brady guest-stars on the Nov. 19 holiday-themed episode as Chris' uncle. Also check out Party Fabulous on the Style Network, a one-hour special that follows the behind-the-scenes escapades of the always (ghetto) fabulous Kimora Lee Simmons during Fashion Week. The special airs on September 30 @ 8pm.

About last night...

I was pleasantly surprised by Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, which has quickly ascended (yes, after only one episode) into my top 5 TV shows, right behind Grey's Anatomy, The Wire and Nip/Tuck (the jury's still out on Ugly Betty until it debuts next week). I had my reservations about Studio 60 initially, mainly because of Matthew Perry. I feared that this would be Friends 2: The Matt Perry Show. Come on, he was one of the least likable characters on Friends, so if the lovable Joey/Matt LeBlanc's show could fail, Matthew Perry's chances were slim to none. But rest assured, there's no sign of Matthew Perry in at least the first 30 minutes of Studio 60.
For the first time in recent memory, we have a show about New York where the characters actually talk like they're in New York, not with a slow drawl of the South or Midwest. They talk very fast here on Studio 60, so you have to keep up, and the dialogue is intense and chock-full of tidbits you must file away for later use. Plus, you're not really sure what's going on to begin with, since we're coming in mid argument on something. I don't mind. It's refreshing for a TV show to not dumb down to (or, the word of the night, lobotomize!) the audience. It's very smartly written and I hope it keeps up in upcoming episodes.
I liked having Felicity Huffman and Three 6 Mafia there (and playing themselves) as a way to ground the show in a real world context beyond the back-stage hijinks. They were just like us, standing by and watching the drama unfold around them. Felicity nervously worries about her opening monologue and Three 6 Mafia...well...they use some herbal remedies to alleviate their anxieties (quote of the night from Jordan, "I'll grab the loose joints.")
Amanda Peet was so fierce! Let's create a new nomination at the Emmy's for the fiercest female actress - I've already got two nominees, Amanda Peet and Sanaa Lathan. I loved how unflappable she was the entire episode, and almost seemed amused by everything going on around her, with a slight smirk on her face. As a woman in her position, the new president of the NBS network, she brought to reality the phrase, "never let them see you sweat." The only time she seemed the tiniest bit frazzled was when she couldn't find her office, but since it was only her second day on the job, so we'll give her a pass (and another pass for thanking the "caterers" for a fabulous meal right in front of her hostess, whom I'm sure was trying to pass the food off as homemade). I can tell that she doesn't give a rat's behind what other people think about her and that will serve her well in this role. I'm excited about the prospect of the writers including Amanda's real life pregnancy into her character. Wouldn't that be funny...the new president of the network announces her pregnancy only days after filling the position? I really hope so. Then we can delve into the life of powerful studio executive trying to balance her role as mom. I love it!
Back to Matthew Perry...he was almost likable as Matt Albie. He donned an invisible Superman cape and came to the rescue of his struggling writing partner Daniel Tripp, played with vulnerable honesty by Bradley Whitford. I hope they don't dwell on Matt's volatile relationship with ex-girlfriend Harriet. It's hard to sympathize with her appearance on the 700 Club as the reason for her breakup - it seems almost warranted, no?
Since it's only the first episode, my fingers are still crossed that D.L. Hughley will have his chance to step to the forefront and shine. I have a good feeling about Studio 60. I hope Aaron Sorkin is busily readying his Emmy speech in between writing episodes because there's good stuff here. I can't wait for more. Stay tuned...

LL Cool J is The Man

Reuters reports that Anthony Zuiker, creator of the CSI franchise, is teaming up with LL Cool J to develop The Man, a CBS drama starring the rapper-actor as an undercover LAPD officer who juggles his nights as an upper echelon crime-stopper with his days as a adoptive parent of three troubled youth - an abused boy, a former streetwalker and a recovering drug addict. Zuiker says he was influenced by LL Cool J's own dual existence as a "multi-platinum rapper and an amazing father" of four. "He has such an amazing spirit and has a great connection with the audience." For Zuiker, working with LL Cool J is a "childhood dream come true," he said. "I remember going to his concert when I was 14 years old, wanting to be as famous as him." Upon pitching the concept to LL Cool J, Zuiker says, "He loved it, and we're now officially in business."

This sounds like a good look for LL Cool J, particularly given his problems with Def Jam and Jay-Z. Maybe it's time for him to leave music alone and fully concentrate on his acting career. He was such a gem on In the House. I hope things work out for him again with The Man. Stay tuned...

New show for Brandy?

A few details have emerged about another possible sitcom run for R&B singer/actress/mom/reality show judge Brandy. According to an entry on imdb.com, TV writer and Girlfriends creator Mara Brock Akil is developing an as-yet-untitled project for the singer. The plot outline for the show involves a "young New Yorker" who "moves to Los Angeles to work as an entertainment editor." This won't be Akil's first time collaborating with Brandy for television-she previously worked as a writer on the singer's UPN show Moesha. I had heard rumblings about this show, back when UPN was UPN and WB was WB. Now, with the new CW network, I'm not sure where these plans stand. And while we're on the subject...I wonder what's going on with Shonda Rhimes new pilot about a group of young female journalists? Last I heard, our favorite Grey's Anatomy heart patient, Denny (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) had been cast. Stay tuned...

TVnista's Fall 2006 TV picks

Since the new Fall season will roll out over the course of the next two weeks, here's a breakdown, day-by-day, of what we'll be watching and critiquing. If one of your favorite programs is not listed, let me know and I'll see if we can add it to the rotation. I'm open to suggestions. As you can see, I'm not really into sitcoms (except for the "Black Block" on CW on Sunday night), but if you can make a convincing argument why I should check out, say The Office or My Name is Earl, let me know.

[* denotes a new show]

SUNDAY
7pm - Everybody Hates Chris - CW (October 1)
7:30 - All of Us - CW (October 1)
8pm - Girlfriends - CW (October 1)
8:30 - The Game* - CW (October 1)
9pm - Desperate Housewives - ABC (September 24)
10pm - THE WIRE - HBO

MONDAY
8pm - The Class - NBC (September 18) / Prison Break - FOX / Deal or No Deal - NBC (September 18)
9pm - Heroes - NBC (September 25) / Vanished - FOX
10pm - Studio 60* - NBC (September 18) / CSI: Miami - CBS (September 18)

TUESDAY
8pm - Dancing with the Stars - ABC / Friday Night Lights - NBC (October 3)
9pm - Law & Order: CI - NBC (September 19)
10pm - Nip/Tuck - FX / Law & Order: SVU (September 19)

WEDNESDAY
8pm - 30 Rock* - NBC (October 11) / America's Next Top Model - CW (September 20) / Dancing with the Stars (results show) - ABC
9pm - Lost - ABC (October 4)
10pm - Project Runway - BRAVO (season finale Oct.18) / Kidnapped* - NBC (September 20) / The Nine* - ABC (October 4)

THURSDAY
8pm - Ugly Betty* - ABC (September 28)
9pm - Grey's Anatomy - ABC (September 21) / CSI - CBS (September 21)
10pm - Nick Cannon Presents Wild N' Out - MTV / 6 Degrees* - ABC (September 21) / ER - NBC (September 21)

FRIDAY
9pm - Las Vegas - NBC (October 20)
10pm - Law & Order - NBC (September 22)


Keep your schedule open for other guilty pleasures - The O.C. returns on November 2 - and miscellaneous MTV reality shows, particularly The Real World: Denver (debuts December 5). I wonder if 8th & Ocean is coming back? Stay tuned...

About last night...

Who am I to argue with the critics (Entertainment Weekly, GQ, San Francisco Chronicle) who call THE WIRE the best show on TV? I wholeheartedly agree. Nowhere else on TV will you see issues compounding the African-American community dealt with in a very honest and raw way. Some folks have complained that this season is weaker than previous seasons since the drama has moved from the street corners to the schools. I actually feel that this season is more fascinating than any of the pervious seasons because we are taking a look at the issues from their inception - where do these drug dealers who terrorize our street corners and neighborhoods come from? More often than not, it’s from dysfunctional families and the failed school system. The young Black actors portraying Namond, Randy, Michael and Dukie, the students of both the street and in school, are enormously gifted and talented. I like how the producers are playing a sort of "strip-tease" with the viewers, gradually reintroducing familiar faces. Last week we caught up with McNulty, Kima, Bodie, Carver and Herc. Last night we saw what Bubbles and Cutty have been up to, as well as checking in on Wee-bay (a personal fave). Looks like the man we love to hate - Stringer Bell's killer, Omar, will make his reappearance next week. Watching an episode of THE WIRE is like reading a chapter from your favorite novel. You want to savor each word and scene, but are afraid to jump ahead for fear of what's going to happen at the end. I appreciate the way the story unfolds, very methodically. Memorable moments from last night: Herc walking in on Mayor Royce in a "compromising" situation (I can't wait to see the fall-out from that little peep-show); the joy riding youngsters; Marlo's impromptu shooting range; Bubble’s helper, Sherrod, inability to make a simple mathematical calculation – and he looks to be about 17 or 18 years-old; Cutty's inattention to the affection of the neighborhood women bringing him plates of food; the homicide detectives playing tag with the phone to see "who's it?”; and the juxtaposition of the debate against the Xbox shooting game Namond plays to end the show. I feel that the best is still yet to come with THE WIRE. Plus, HBO's already renewed it for a fifth (and perhaps, final) season, which will incorporate a media angle - finally! Stay tuned...

About last night...

Survivor: Cook Islands was...eh...not very exciting. The most interesting part for me was the opening sequence when everyone was grabbing supplies and food off the boat. Why take a live chicken? Would you seriously consider killing it, plucking the feathers, draining the blood and frying it up with a side of mac-and-cheese and cornbread? Thanx! I paid special close attention to the "African-American" team. Did you peep the ratio of two men to three women? I'd take those odds any day, given that those odds are actually better than what exists in the real world Black community. Sekou was too bossy and I'm glad he was voted off. I can see that each racial group is falling into their proper stereotypes, as scripted (anyone who doesn't believe that so-called "reality shows" are scripted is a total fool!). Honestly, I won't be watching this show anymore. Once Ugly Betty starts next Thursday, it's a wrap for Survivor. Stay tuned...

What to watch tonight...

Though I should boycott Survivor: Cook Islands for moral and ethical reasons, I'll reserve judgment until I see it for myself. Tune in tonight on CBS @ 8pm for the season premiere. Honestly, I haven't watched Survivor since the days of Richard Hatch (um...yes, the first season), so it should be interesting. I agree with the producers that there is a definite lack of minorities represented on reality shows, but is this necessarily the right way to go about it, by pitting racial groups against each other. We'll see. Stay tuned...

About last night...

I told you so...Tucker Carlson is toast. He was the worst of the entire bunch, and I'm glad that the rest of America agreed with me. Emmitt Smith continues to amaze me. What is it about football players and dancing? Who knew that those burly men could be so light on their feet? Emmitt has such an ease about him when he's dancing and Cheryl Burke, the reigning champ, is simply amazing (all those other so-called dancers...cough, cough...The Pussycat Dolls and Bouncy...need to watch and take notes)! Emmitt and Cheryl are really having fun together, and it shows! What was up with the production quality of the show toward the end with that horrid red lighting and the dead silence? Come on people, let's get it together. I know it's live, but still!

My first thought about Project Runway is one of disbelief...what very much pregnant Laura really drinking that champagne? My mouth was agape watching her! How irresponsible! I almost wanted to hate her until she had her breakdown and my heart went out to her - we've all been here. And damn right, she's tired. She's pregnant and having to hang around these young (and somewhat immature) fellow contestants. I think her victory last night was a pity win. Of course, Michael should have won. Big ups to him for giving Kayne a helping hand. He's a better person than me, because I would have left Kayne alone with his tacky and outlandish design. LOL at Jeffrey's facial expression when Angela came back...and then his inability to see the bright side in her return.

Here how I judged the dresses, from my least to most favorite:
Angela: One word...H.A.M.
Vincent: I don't think cotton is the best material for evening cocktail attire. It looked cheap and was ill-fitting (despite the last minute model change).
Jeffrey: Why did Paris and Nicky Hilton immediately pop into my head when I saw his look come down the runway? Seems like something either (or both) of them would wear. The dress itself was cute (I'm partial to polka-dots, which are so hot this season), but the faux-leather leggings were trashy as best. He needs to move on from street-walker couture.
Kayne: The front of the dress was OK, but the back, H.A.M.
Uli: I liked the print, but then again, all Uli does are these same prints. It's getting boring, and if she doesn't switch it up for the next challenge, she's going to get Auf'd. The necklace, though, H.A.M and completely unnecessary.
Laura: Very cute and feminine with gorgeous detail.
Michael: Once again, and always, the winner in my book. Flawless. Spectacular. Absolutely beautiful. I was ready to grab my keys and coat and run out to the store to buy that dress. I need it now! So chic, cool and modern. If Michael doesn't win the entire competition, there's going to be a problem.
Sidenote: Did you see Heidi Klum's face when Michael Kors was mocking Uli's accent? Boy, if looks could kill, Michael, you'd be a dead man! We're getting close to the end, kids, so as always...stay tuned...

What to watch tonight...

Tune in to ABC @ 8pm for the Dancing with the Stars result show. Then, be sure to flip to Bravo @ 10pm for the best reality show on TV...Project Runway! Who do you think is going to win? I think Michael has this sewn up (pun intended)! I can't wait for his clothing line to come out. We need more Black designers. And for the record, Baby Phat (Kimora Lee Simmons), Sean John (P. Diddy), Rocawear (Jay-Z), and House of Disaster...oh...I mean Dereon (Tina "Mama" Knowles and Beyonce "Bouncy" Knowles) are not designers, thank you very much. I love Tracy Reese and all, but Michael is going to kill it!

TV News 9.13.06

HBO renews THE WIRE for a fifth season!

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 13, 2006 - The critically acclaimed, Peabody Award-winning HBO drama series THE WIRE has been renewed for a fifth season, it was announced today by Carolyn Strauss, president, HBO Entertainment. Created and executive produced by David Simon, the show just kicked off its 13-episode fourth season last Sunday, Sept. 10, and debuts new episodes Sunday nights (10:00-11:00 p.m. ET/PT).

"We are delighted - though not surprised - at the initial critical response to the new season of THE WIRE," said Strauss. "David Simon and his remarkable team have created a riveting and thought-provoking series that's unlike anything else on TV."

Having depicted an American city over the course of 50 episodes, THE WIRE will use its fifth and concluding season to examine the role of the mass media within that city.

The new fourth season has already prompted resounding critical praise. The New York Times said the show "is the closest that moving pictures have come so far to the depth and nuance of the novel." Daily Variety observed, "When television history is written, little else will rival THE WIRE," hailing the show for its "extraordinary depth and ambition." Entertainment Weekly called the series "a staggering achievement," while the Washington Post described it as "electrifying and disturbing...a gripping saga," and the New York Post termed it "the single finest piece of work ever produced for American TV."

Season four of THE WIRE centers on the lives of four young boys as they traverse adolescence in the drug-saturated streets of West Baltimore. The new episodes of the series examine their world through the theme of education, asking viewers to consider the world that awaits these boys, and to consider further the American commitment to equal opportunity.

The third season of THE WIRE ended its run in December 2004. The first season looked at the dysfunction inherent in the national drug war through the microcosm of a West Baltimore housing project, while the second season addressed the decline of the working class by focusing on a longshoremen's union and its struggle to survive. In its third season, the drama further developed its portrait of a fictional Baltimore by exploring the role of the political leadership in addressing a city's problems or reforming its institutions.

Says Simon, a former newspaperman and the author of two books of narrative nonfiction, "The last question we want to ask is this: For four seasons, we have depicted that part of urban America that has been left behind by the economy and by the greater society, and chronicled entrenched problems that have gone without solution for generations now. Why? What is it that we see and sense about these problems? To what are we giving attention, and what is it that we consistently ignore? How do we actually see ourselves?"

THE WIRE was created by David Simon. Fourth season credits: executive producers, David Simon and Nina Kostroff Noble; co-executive producer, Joe Chappelle; producers, Edward Burns and Karen Thorson; consulting producer, Eric Overmyer.

Nip/Tuck 9.12.06

It's never been more apparent, than in last night's episode, that Sean and Christian have savior complexes. They want to save people from themselves, and in a way, fix themselves along the way. It was great to see Kimber, looking fabulous as always. I can't wait until she gets her claws into Mike...um...I mean Matt (doesn't John Hensley bear a strikingly eerie resemblance to Michael Jackson?) But I was a bit turned off by Kimber going all Tom Cruise on Matt. I was having flashbacks to his infamous Today Show interview with Matt Lauer. I think Sean totally overreacted to Annie's attempt to recreate her unborn brother's disability. So, Sean meets a man in the coffee shop with a facial deformity and offers to fix him for free - if only Sean could fix his soon-to-be born son. Then, as Christian struggles with his sexuality, he tries to "convert" another confused soul away from the brink of homosexuality by taking him to a strip club, along the way trying to validate his own heterosexuality. Are these mere coincidences? I think not - it's way too obvious IMO but Nip/Tuck has never been known for it's subtley. For the first time in four seasons, Julie is actually acting like a real mother - it suits her. I only have one word to describe Sanaa Lathan's character...delicious. I love how she's standing up to Sean and Christian...but does everyone on this show have to be gay, bisexual or having some sort of sexual identity crisis? One thing about Nip/Tuck, it always keeps you guessing. Next week's episode looks like it's going to be a real doo-sey. Stay tuned....

Dancing with the Stars 9.12.06

Generally, I though the show was a little stiff, including the dancers. I hope that as the season progresses, they will loosen up a bit, but you could definitely read the nerves on the contestants' faces. Emmitt Smith and Cheryl Burke totally deserved their standing ovation. Emmitt was very natural and light on his feet. Watch out Jerry Rice! Tucker Carlson was like a board - looks like he belongs behind a news desk. Monique Coleman from High School Musical was forgettable. Vivica A. Fox surprised me. She looked very pretty and seemed to be having fun. I expect Vivica to go far in this competition. Jerry Springer was a H.A.M (hot a** mess - get used to the acronym, because I use it A LOT!). Overall, a solid start to the new season, but I'm hoping my attention won't wander to more interesting pastures unless they liven things up a bit. Stay tuned...

How will Vivica dance tonight?

Tune in tonight for the season premiere of Dancing with the Stars. ABC @ 8pm. How do you think Vivica A. Fox will do? Will she out fox the fox trot or fall flat on her face? Stay tuned....