Want to know who's coming back—or not—to Smallville? What's up with Mark Salling on Glee? Whether there's any hope for Life Unepected? Click in for the latest exclusive TV scoop...
Redmond: The CW picked up everything except for Life Unexpected. What gives? Is it canceled?
No…t yet. I'm told that no official decision has been made by the CW suits as of today, but it's "not looking good" at the moment. We should know "pretty soon." So if you're a fan, you know what to do: Cross all your fingers and toes (or does that negate the first cross? I always forget) and tell every single person/animal/alien you know to tune into Life Unexpected Tuesday night on the CW.
Addy in New York City: I haven't heard much from you guys about The Walking Dead. Have you seen it, and if so, what did you think?
The Walking Dead is awesome...and scary, with incredible makeup and special effects. (Check out our video sneak peek!) Executive producer Gale Anne Hurd told us, TWD is more than just zombie-killing fun: "It's the emotional resonance of decisions you have to make when you survive and a loved one hasn't"—like one character's zombie wife, who lurches home every day because he doesn't have the heart to kill her.
Monica: Gossip Girl!
The hot boys just keep rolling in... Kevin Zegers (Damian) tells us he's doing one episode of Gossip Girl and will be back for a couple more later in the season. Who'll he be romancing this time? If only Kristen Bell were here to give us the goods!
Dennis: What's the word on Puck and Rachel on Glee? I'm so tired of all the Finn and Rachel news. When are Puck and Rachel getting back together?
Sorry, but Ryan Murphy was totally serious when he said that there's nothing in the works for Puck and Rachel anytime soon. My condolences to any and all Puckleberry lovers. Something tells me someone is getting some lovin', though. Though Ryan wanted to keep the storyline as much of a secret as possible, my frenemy reveals that Chris Colfer and Darren Criss are singing "Baby, It's Cold Outside" lends further proof that eventually, they will be more than friends.
Rebecca: What's the deal on Brothers & Sisters? I hated last night's episode for Kevin and Scotty.
I join you in your hatred, missy girl. But fear not, I'm told things will work out. In other B&S news that is not BS (see what I did there?), I'm told that Dave Annable's real-life now wife Odette Yustman will be sticking around for a few more episodes as his love interest, so it seems that (holy shocker!) there is chemistry there. Also, word is they are just now starting to cast Olivia; Richard Chamberlain will be on roughly three episodes and have heavy scenes with Ron Rifkin; and Nora's new love interest Karl isn't going to make it past the midseason mark.
Meri in Utah: Any dish on The Vampire Diaries?
You know how Katherine likes to pretend she's Elena, just for kicks? Well, Elena's about to take a page from her doppelgänger's book. She pretends to be Katherine in an upcoming ep.
Monica: Any chance Mason will be back on Vampire Diaries?
I'd bet my favorite moonstone he won't. I'm told the death will stick.
Heather: Got any really good spoilers on Supernatural? Impress me!
I'd love to bring you the whole enchilada, but I've been told to only sprinkle a little sauce your way on this one because it's a big reveal. I'm told there's a really cool twist coming up regarding something that is missing. I know. I can't believe I just told you all that too! It's like you just watched the whole rest of the season!
@themagicoflaura (via Twitter): Anything on FNL or 90210! :D
I'll take FNL FTW! The final season of Friday Night Lights starts this Wednesday on DirecTV and is not to be missed. I know. You are so shocked that his quality show is, like, quality! But true story: I loved the season premiere. Tami reunites with her hubby at his school, Julie has all grown-up girl stuff going on (moving away to college), and the new QB Grey Damon (who was also the new quarterback on True Blood last season—but this time isn't hooked on "V") is totally drool-worthy. Plus, I've heard a thing or two about how the series wraps up, and at least one storyline is so giddy-good just the mention of it brought tears to my eyes. Either I'm that pathetic (don't answer) or it will be that good.
Heather: Any word on Michael Rosenbaum returning to Smallville?
I wish! But not as much as the producers and Tom Welling wish. That's what I'm hearing from sources—that Smallville producers have asked him to come back for the final season, but so far, Michael has not signed on. I'm told Tom himself also reached out to ask (beg?) him, but again, so far, no dice. Who's got a plane that can skywrite? Let's get creative, people! In other spoilery (and related!) news I'm told that Tess is a ******. Any guesses on which letters fill in those six blanks?
Veronica: Will Kristin Kreuk or Annette O'Toole return to Smallville?
I'm told there's nothing in the works right now on Kristin but Annette is likely to return. Tip: Don't forget to put gas in that skywriting plane before you take it out to skywrite all your Smallville casting pleas.
Beth in Hollywood, Calif.: Do you know anything more about Teri Hatcher's part of Smallville?
Have a box of Kleenex handy for this one, because Smallville bosses Kelly Souders and Brian Peterson tell us Teri Hatcher's role as Lois Lane's mom, Ella, is a major tearjerker. Apparently someone close to a crew member found out she was dying, so she "sat down and made these videos for her child. What we did with Ella Lane was pull that into the show because it was so heart wrenching," says Brian. "It came together beautifully," adds Kelly. "I just watched three takes and I had to stop for awhile because it was so heart wrenching. Teri just had an incredible performance, and it was beautiful."
Athena: So excited for the January return of Big Love. Any scoop?
Chloë Sevigny tells us, "I think that finally you see the Henricksons having to deal with some consequences, for their actions and for their lifestyle. And they are finally getting a little bit of comeuppance."
Riley in Palm Desert, Calif.: Peter Weller (aka RoboCop) deserved an Emmy nomination for his guest spot in Fringe—are we going to see more of him in Dexter?
Dexter is going guest star to the max! The inimitable Peter Weller returns as Quinn's (Desmond Harrington) private Doakes dick; joining him are Chris Vance (Mental, Burn Notice) as security chief for motivational speaker Jordan Chase (Eli Stone's Jonny Lee Miller). You knew Boyd's creepy "Take it now!" tapes would come back to haunt us, right?
Jojo via Twitter: I need to know what's going to happen with Lumen on Dexter. The tension is killing me!
You're not the only one! Next week Dex finally targets a fresh kill—but as usual, things don't go smoothly. This botched attempt leads to a hilariously staged murder scene—but also a deeper, trusting relationship between Dexter and Lumen (Julia Stiles). We just wish we didn't have to see that bloody bathtub again. Don't people take showers anymore?
Marion in California: Got anything on Will and Alicia in The Good Wife?
When the Lockhart & Gardner team has to leave a fundraising dinner early, Peter and Will's new lady, Tammy (Elizabeth Reaser), have time to chat. Tammy drops some not-so-subtle hints about Will being in love in college and now. Needless to say it just adds to Peter's long list of growing suspicions. On a related note, anyone else wishing for a Will and Alicia at Georgetown flashback episode?
Brandon: Hot mother of all, when will Teddy come out of the closet on 90210? Also, dying to know if Annie and Liam will get back together?
Actually, I'm only the mother of 1.5, but to answer your first question: Next year. And to answer your second question: Soon. That's the word on the scoop batphone anyway.
Megan in New York: Any news on my fave guilty pleasure 90210?
Shenae Grimes is the new Bette Davis, yes? This theory will be tested when 90210 launches an All About Eve storyline for Annie. Annie's cousin Emily comes to visit Beverly Hills and steal away all of Annie's acting jobs and friends while deceptively pretending to be a clueless naïf from the sticks. Interesting…Any casting ideas from the Lucy Hale/Willa Holland/SMG division of tiny fierce actresses?
Jamie in North Carolina: Got anything on No Ordinary Family?
Jim has been keeping a secret from Stephanie, J.J.'s superpower secret finally comes out, and Daphne's powers uncover a student/teacher relationship that is practically an epidemic on TV these days. Also, the Powells might not be the only supers in town. They're getting new neighbors who are harboring a secret—so either this new family has powers too, or they're hiding a homicidal relative in their basement, à la Desperate Housewives back in the day.
Berrycar via Twitter: Got anything on Chuck?
Jeffster is getting some fun-filled airtime tonight on Chuck's awesome "Aisle of Terror" Halloween episode. Says Scott Krinsky (Jeff): "We're given the task of decorating the Buy More for Halloween, [which becomes] another little mission for Jeff and Lester." Adds Vik Sahay (Lester): "[This is] yet again an instance where their worlds cross over into Chuck's world." Translation: Danger ensues. Also, NBC is having a fun virtual viewing party tonight on Philo (for both East and West Coasts!) to support the show, so just click here if you want to join in and the rest is easy.
Alice in Georgia: I love Sam Page, and I love that he's on every show I watch! Can you tell me anything about his upcoming gig on The Event?
Yes ma'am, we can! Sam tells us this about his bad-boy Event character: "I play somebody from Sean's (Jason Ritter) graduate school. We used to be computer hackers, but Sean went the route of video game design, and my character went the route of stock broker. So when Sean's on the run and he needs some help from someone who can find information [through] hacking, he calls me." Sounds like some sexy covert operation fun!
Jesse in Carlsbad, Calif.: What's coming up on Cougar Town?
An Andy (Ian Gomez)-centric episode, that's what. Our favorite Cougar Towner (shhh, don't tell!) is about to ponder his place in the cul-de-sac crew and whether or not he would even be a part of it—better yet, if he'd even be friends with Jules (Courteney Cox)—if he hadn't married Ellie (Christa Miller). Don't worry, Penny Can will live to see another day, it's just a fun look at Jules and Andy's attempt to become besties without his wife hanging around.
Terri in Georgia: Cougar Town has turned into such a great ensemble show—more people should watch. Got any scoop?
We'll soon be meeting Grayson's ex-wife. Hope Jules isn't the jealous type...
Boris in New Jersey: The Office Halloween episodes are always epic. What can we expect from this season's installment?
Get ready to see The Office's version of Lady Gaga, Bill Compton, Sookie Stackhouse, a sexy nurse (from an unexpected Dunder Mifflinite), Popeye and his ladylove Olive Oyl, MacGruber, Michael Moore, Kevin in drag, a shirtless Andy and a bucktoothed Michael—and guess what? Most of these things aren't even part of the Halloween costume contest! Oh, and the return of Michael's always offensive BFF Todd Packer.
Gail: What's coming up on Community?
If you liked Community's paintball episode "Modern Warfare" last season, you'll love this week's Halloween zombie adventure, "Epidemiology." It's on the same action-movie scale, plus there are crazy-scary special effects and some un-freaking-believable "undead" makeovers.
wingster55 via Twitter: I'd like to know if Community is going to return to romantic subplots again (Jeff/Britta, etc.).
As of now, what you see is what you get. The subtle flirty moments (à la Troy and Britta in the space bus episode) between characters will pop up every so often, but right now romance between the gang is on the backburner.
Jessica in Portland, Ore.: Yay for a full season of Hellcats! Any scoop?
If you're still a little anti-Alice (Heather Hemmens), you might actually switch teams in the not so distant future. Hellcats will soon be introducing Alice's rough-around-the-edges dad and his very young wife, and we'll finally get to see why she's as messed up as she is, and learn that there's a much softer side to the bitchy cheer gal.
Melody in Kentucky: I love Raising Hope. Dish!
In case you didn't see it, check out our scoopy convo with Raising Hope show runner Greg Garcia! Plus, we can tell you that tomorrow night's Halloween ep is a big one for Jimmy and Sabrina, who finally have their first date. Sort of.
Edward: Looking forward to the return of Burn Notice in a few weeks. Will Coby Bell still be around in the new eps?
Yes, Coby Bell is still on Burn Notice when it returns Nov. 11 (hallelujah!), even though he's feeling a little (understandably) snippy about having been taken advantage of by Michael, Fiona and Sam. (Dear Burn Notice Powers That Be: Can we please keep Coby for the duration of the series? Pleeeeasse?! Thanks!)
Showing posts with label Burn Notice. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Burn Notice. Show all posts
Monday, October 25, 2010
Watch with Kristin Spoiler Chat 10/25/10
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Ask Ausiello 9/15/10
Question: I know you are busy and all with getting your fall season tactics together, but can you please give me some Private Practice scoop? —Vernice
Ausiello: Fall season tactics? You tickle me, Vernice. Let’s grab a drink sometime. Here’s your Private spoiler: Something tragic will happen to a major character during November sweeps. It’s probably the darkest story PP has ever tackled—and this show has tackled some dark stories. Consider yourself warned.
Question: Seriously, no Fringe scoop last week? Why do I even bother to read this column? —Brett
Ausiello: That’s between you, your therapist, and the lovely people at CVS. If it’s any consolation, I have Fringe scoop this week. Actually, I’ve got a few Fringe scoops. The first one comes courtesy of John Noble, who reveals exactly how Walternate plans to pull Peter’s strings from the alt-universe. “[Walternate] has to ensure that [Peter] continues to work on our side,” says Noble, “and he’ll do that through alt-Olivia.” Okay, I’ll bite: How exactly will Bolivia manipulate Peter? Noble hesitates before whispering, “She seduces him… Did I just say that? Did I just drop a big teaser?” I believe you did, sir!
Question: Does the fact that Fringe is setting every other episode “over there” mean that we’re going to see more of Charlie this season? —Melissa
Ausiello: That’s precisely what that means. Charlie remains active in the alt-world’s Fringe division, so look for him to appear in multiple episodes—beginning with next Thursday’s season premiere.
Question: Can I get some good Grey’s Anatomy news regarding Der and Mer? —Betsy
Ausiello: Among the manifestations of Derek’s post-bloodbath adrenaline junkie phase will be an increased sexual appetite. “[There's] a lot of sex,” says series creator Shonda Rhimes. “He’s on the high that a person gets when they face death and survive it.”
Question: I heard a rumor that Kevin Sorbo will be on The Big Bang Theory playing Sheldon’s much less geeky, way older brother. True? —Ish
Ausiello: False.
Question: I’ll be watching six shows this fall: House, Chuck, Glee, Bones, The Office, and Smallville. You have to have a scoop on at least one of them! Please? —Hillary
Ausiello: How about more on Glee’s emotional third episode? Cory Monteith will be in the spotlight, performing R.E.M.’s “Losing My Religion” as Finn finds—and loses—his faith in the course of the hour. “So cool,” Monteith says of his solo. “I’ve been a huge Michael Stipe fan all my life.” Apparently he’s a Joan Osborne fan as well: “We end the episode with ‘One of Us,’” he says. “I think it’s been a long time since the song was done properly. I hope we do it well.”
Question: We’re so close to the premiere of Dexter and yet there was nothing in the last AA. Shame. —Adam
Ausiello: A scene in the Sept. 26 premiere in which Astor and Cody learn that their mother has been savagely murdered features a twisted-even-by-Dexter-standards piece of product placement. Hint: The folks at Disney are gonna be out for blood!
Question: My fiancé and I just watched all four seasons of Dexter in one week, and we’re completely hooked. Got any scoop on season 5? —Leslie
Ausiello: The premiere flashes back to Dex and Rita’s very first date. And given what went down on date No. 1, you’ll be shocked they made it to No. 2.
Question: Rumor has it House was shooting some big event on location in downtown Los Angeles last week. Got any deets? —Claudia
Ausiello: You sitting down? Good, ’cause a little birdie confirms to me exclusively that they were shooting a wedding! Now go ahead and stand back up because the bride and groom are, well, nobodies. At least they’re nobodies to us. They’re somebodies to House and Cuddy, who attend the nuptials along with Sam and Wilson. “None of our series regulars are getting married that I know of right now,” says exec producer and aforementioned little birdie Katie Jacobs. “But weddings tend to be a flashpoint for couples. And every couple that has to attend this wedding [ends up] examining where they are in their own relationship.”
Question: Please tell us who kidnaps Lois in the Smallville premiere. Or at the very least give us a hint. —Brian
Ausiello: It is not Lex Luthor. It is, however, the next worst thing.
Question: How much longer will Crosby and Jasmine be doing the long-distance thing on Parenthood? —Christine
Ausiello: “As the season progresses, all three of them find that [the arrangement] hasn’t really worked out,” says exec producer Jason Katims. “So things start to evolve pretty early on in the year. I don’t want to give away exactly what happens, but their living arrangements change.”
Question: Help me! I need some 90210 scoop that doesn’t involve Teddy being gay! —Ely
Ausiello: Look for Deb (Lori Loughlin) to pay an unannounced visit to Cougar Town—the metaphorical one, not the literal one—when she randomly hooks up with Ryan (Ryan Eggold) in November. For those keeping track at home, there’s a 20-year age difference between the two. Not that there’s anything wrong with that.
Question: Sorry to hear about your wrist! What’s making you feel better as you convalesce? —Ben
Ausiello: My good friend Paulie Percocet has been cheering me up. And in between doses his visits, I watch this.
Question: Did you break your wrist watching the House premiere? —@Sudsy95
Ausiello: No, I broke it *a****g *f* a ******. In related news, the first person to correctly solve that asterisk quiz wins this. Please email your most educated guess to ausielloscoop@ew.com and be sure to include “House contest” in the subject line.
Question: The DirecTV press release about the final season of Friday Night Lights doesn’t mention anything about Gaius Charles returning. Does this mean Smash is not in season 5? If so, did they want to bring him back and couldn’t for scheduling reasons, or was it a creative choice? —Jake
Ausiello: Smash will not be back for the fifth and final season, and, according to exec producer Jason Katims, creative and scheduling considerations came into play. “It was a combination of [Gaius'] availability and the storytelling,” he tells me. “With only 13 episodes, we ended up having to pick and choose which stories and characters to service. The story drives everything. We didn’t want to bring [alums] back just to bring them back. We wanted to make sure we had a good story for them.” That said, Katims says Smash is “referenced” in one of the episodes. “We find out how he’s doing in school.”
Question: Could you give us a clue about your wedding blind item from a while ago? —Jaimee
Ausiello: It’s not Grey’s Anatomy. Or Private Practice.
Question: How about a scoop on Community? All those commercials on Emmy night got me excited for season 2! —Jenny
Ausiello: Señor Chang’s transition from teacher to student will be a rocky one—and that’s a good thing, insists Ken Jeong. “Watching him assimilate into the school he once abused is all sorts of fun,” enthuses Jeong. “I’m having more fun than I’ve ever had on the show right now.”
Question: I’m very disappointed by the lack of Spartacus: Blood and Sand spoilers. To make up for this, how about a spoiler on the second season? It’s only fair. —Carol
Ausiello: I broke my wrist *a****g *f* a ******. Don’t lecture me about fairness, Carol. Having said that, your timing is fortuitous as I just got off the phone with series creator Steven S. DeKnight. Sparty’s boss told me that the search for a new Big Bad (or big Bads) to fill the void left by John Hannah’s Batiatus will soon get under way. “There will be some new people on the villain side,” he says. “But we’re not far enough into [season 2] to nail down any big casting news.” DeKnight went on to say that he “kicked around” the idea of a romance between sworn enemies Spartacus and Ilithyia, but he added that “it’s a tricky thing since she tried to kill him several times, and he firmly connects her to Glaber, who he partially blames for the death of his wife. But will they have some interesting interactions in season 2? Absolutely.”
Question: I have a craving for anything Castle! —Trish
Ausiello: I’ve got three words for you: Castle. Beckett. Nudity. Allow exec producer Andrew Marlowe to explain: “They have to go to a strip club to investigate a murder, and Castle is very excited about this. Unfortunately for him, it turns out to be a male revue with crazy bachelorettes running around. He, of course, ends up being fresh meat.”
Question: Can I have a scoop on Bones please? —Pauline
Ausiello: The rumors are true: Angela, who had a little pregnancy scare last season with boyfriend Wendell, is actually having a baby with husband Hodgins. Actress Michaela Conlin expects Angela to “weave in some of her craziness” to their impending parenthood. “I think we may see her interviewing some doulas and wild pediatricians and things like that. And hopefully, she’ll be eating a lot of weird stuff,” Conlin says. “I think it’s going to be nice to see another side of her this season.”
Question: I love Sweets on Bones, but I hate to see him get the short end of so many sticks. Any news on what’s in store for him this season? —AJ
Ausiello: A possible reunion with Daisy is in store—provided he’s able to forgive her for choosing her career over him. “He’s taking baby steps to finally let [Daisy] back into his heart,” reveals Sweets’ portrayer, John Frances Daley. “He has a very fragile heart. He’s been through a lot. Obviously, they have very strong feelings for each other, and they can’t really stay apart for too long—as we establish [in he premiere]. He’s a good guy generally, so I think ultimately, yeah, he’ll take her back.”
Question: I know TPTB on How I Met Your Mother have said that season 6 is going to be more Ted-centric, but do you think there is even the slightest glimmer of hope for Barney and Robin?—Jessica
Ausiello: “No comment,” responds exec producer Craig Thomas. Adds fellow EP Carter Bays: “We can’t say one way or the other. But we, like everyone, love them together. There is chemistry there that is undeniable.”
Question: Please elaborate on your recent item about a major character being killed off of Burn Notice when it returns in the fall. I’m seriously freaking out here! —Pat
Ausiello: The major character in question is [spoiler alert]. Furthermore, [spoiler alert] will ********** be [spoiler alert]. Hope that helps!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Ask Ausiello 9/9/10
Question: Have you seen the House premiere? If so, thoughts? —Robin
Ausiello: Yes, I’ve seen it—it’s the reason this column arrived a little late. If you’re a Huddy fan, you’re going to swoon yourself silly. The Sept. 20 opener features the star-crossed lovers cuddling, bathing, massaging, champagne-toasting, and—of course—kissing. I think I counted a dozen smooches in the first 15 minutes alone. The episode will also answer the burning question “What does Hugh Laurie look like wearing nothing but a laptop?”
Question: Should we read anything into the fact that Chase is touching Thirteen’s shoulder in House‘s season 7 key art? —Nina
Ausiello: After watching the premiere, I would have to say HELL YES, YOU SHOULD.
Question: How does House’s team—specifically Chase, Taub, and Foreman—react to House and Cuddy being an item? —Brandon
Ausiello: To quote Dr. Crankenstein in episode 2, one is “in favor,” another is “indignant,” and a third is “indifferent.” Now head to the comments and match the adjective with the character! But first, repeat after me: “Games are fun.”
Question: Is the “S” on Lois’ chest in the Smallville picture you posted Photoshopped on, or is it on her in the actual episode? —Mike
Ausiello: It’s on her in the actual episode.
Question: I, for one, am pulling for Jennifer Morrison to get that role on How I Met Your Mother. When does the character first appear? Any scoop on the premiere? —Dave
Ausiello: Ted’s new love interest—who (BREAKING NEWS!!) will definitely be played by Morrison—is slated to show up in episode 5. As far as the premiere goes, it’s (a) very old-school HIMYM—i.e., ridiculously funny and incredibly moving—and (b) twisty as hell! I don’t think it’s giving anything away to say the biggest curveball involves the return of Rachel Bilson’s Cindy.
Question: Please give us scoop on the season finale of My Boys. Are we going to get any hope for P.J. and Brendo? —Funmi
Ausiello: That’s negatory. By the end of the Sept. 12 finale, P.J.’s in a pretty happy place with Bobby. The future is also looking bright for another Boys duo. Are those wedding bells I hear?
Question: How serious are things between Booth and that new girl on Bones? —Catelynn
Ausiello: That new girl has a name—Hannah. Show some respect. And to quote Booth in the Sept. 23 premiere, their relationship is “as serious as a heart attack.”
Question: So these new Bones promos have me super-excited for the new season (and more than a little bit heartbroken for Brennan), but I’m confused: Is Hannah going to show up in the premiere, or in episode 2? —Amy
Ausiello: You mean that new girl? She shows up in episode 2.
Question: Will we see more of Parker on Bones this season? —Brianna
Ausiello: Mini Booth actually plays a pivotal role in the opener, as he’s essentially the reason Big Booth returns home from Afghanistan. (And yes, you will actually see him.)
Question: Got a Bones scoop? I’m such a good girl. —Galle
Ausiello: My fave moment from the premiere involves Brennan and Daisy channeling their inner action heroines—well, it involves Brennan channeling her inner action heroine while Daisy suffers a series of mini strokes on the sidelines.
Question: We haven’t gotten any Fringe intel in forever. Please say you have some! —Jennifer
Ausiello: I have some!
Question: Any news on what will happen to Castiel on Supernatural this season? —Minha
Ausiello: This season’s first two episodes will be Cas-free, but the full-powered angel returns in spectacular fashion in week 3. “Let’s just say some angels show up that are not so happy,” teases exec producer Sera Gamble. “Cas and an angel go through a window at one point, and the result is not pretty. It’s a pretty spectacular stunt.”
Question: You’ve given us great scoop about the final (shed a tear) season of Friday Night Lights, but one thing remains unanswered: Are we going to be lucky enough to have Minka Kelly return for a few episodes? Riggins putting her on the bus with a soulful “Goodbye, Lyla Garrity” is not enough closure for me. —Becky
Ausiello: Well, it was enough closure for exec producer Jason Katims—and he’s the boss! “I thought her final episode was so powerful,” says Katims. “We talked about bringing her back, but I didn’t really feel like anything we came up with beat the [Tim-Lyla] story in that episode, which I thought was really poignant. It wasn’t a happy ending, but it was a really satisfying ending for me. It was a satisfying resolution to that story line.”
Question: Do you have any scoop on that proposed Heroes telefilm to wrap up loose ends from last season? —Josh
Ausiello: THIS JUST IN: Production on the Heroes reunion pic will officially get under way…probably never.
Question: Give a Blair fan one reason to watch Gossip Girl this season! —Karen
Ausiello: The train-station-set reunion scene between Chuck and Blair at the end of episode 2 is stunningly shot and impeccably acted by Ed Westwick and Leighton Meester. Need another reason? ‘Cause I got a ton!
Question: Gossip Girl scoop? —Lisa
Ausiello: By the end of the second episode, the question you (and everyone else) will be asking yourself is “Who the hell did Serena piss off?”
Question: Please tell me Mozzie is not dead on White Collar! —Vin
Ausiello: Mozzie is probably most likely not dead.
Question: Glee returns in two weeks! Got anything new? —Timothy
Ausiello: The show wastes no time showing off Chord Overstreet’s, um, impressive body of work. When we first meet his possibly gay football-jock character, Sam, in the premiere, he’s in the shower singing “Every Rose Has Its Thorn.” For his part, Chris Colfer believes that scene is proof positive that Sam will not turn out to be Kurt’s BF. “After seeing the episode, I feel like it’s not going to happen because all the girls are going to fall in love with him and they’re not going to want to see [him with Kurt],” he says. “And I don’t want to be the guy girls hate. I’m the gay guy the girls love. I don’t want to become the target. I don’t want the letters that say, ‘Kurt needs to get off our man. Stop kissing our boyfriend.’ Young girls can be vicious. I don’t want to know how Kristen Stewart feels. I don’t want to be the Bella of the Glee world. I like being the guy everyone likes.” Colfer adds that there’s no sign of romantic tension between Sam and Kurt in the first four episodes. “Maybe it is too obvious,” he theorizes. “Our writers have a way of avoiding the obvious and throwing curveballs.” BONUS GLEE SCOOP: Someone’s going to the slammer!
Question: I heard a rumor that Terri will date Principal Figgins on Glee this season. Please say it’s not true. Team Twill FTW! —Rion
Ausiello: According to Terri’s portrayer, Jessalyn Gilsig, it’s “definitely not” true. Gilsig does confirm that the former Mrs. Schuester will “get into a relationship of some kind that brings her around the glee club and the school, but I’m not at liberty to say who.” Guesses? Hit the comments! More fun games!
Question: How’s about serving up a steamy hot dish of Burn Notice scoop? That finale really burned me up. I’ll stop with the puns now. —Hope
Ausiello: The following scoop is rated S and RH for Sizzling and Red-Hot: A major character will be killed off during the show’s fall run.
Question: I am eagerly anticipating your handy-dandy Fall TV Show Premiere cheat sheet! —Traci
Ausiello: And I’m anticipating the day you actually start reading my blog. I posted it two weeks ago. Sigh…
Question: I’m dying for anything you can dig up on Pretty Little Liars. —Jared
Ausiello: Ian Harding (hottie English teach Mr. Fitz) just got his hands on the script for the first episode back in January, and he offered this tease: “They’re not wasting any time with some reveals and secrets and juiciness.”
Question: I have not seen anything on season 2 of Justified. Got any scoop on that? —Carolyn
Ausiello: Production resumes in mid-October, and newly minted series regular Walton Goggins tells me “the pendulum will swing in a completely different direction for Boyd, and religion may receive his ire. He may become an agnostic vigilante, [but] I won’t say against who.”
Question: It’s less than a week until Life Unexpected returns. Surely you have scoop! —Laura
Ausiello: The three new characters I told you about previously are introduced in the Sept. 14 premiere, and one of them has a not-so-surprising connection to a main character. Bonus scoop: Bug and Lux consider taking a big step forward in their relationship, but something happens to trip them up.
Question: Ellen Pompeo and Patrick Dempsey were shooting a Grey’s Anatomy scene at the courthouse! Please, Ausiello, tell us if Mer-Der are going to make that Post-it legal! —Amber
Ausiello: A Grey’s insider confirms to me exclusively that you’re as high as a kite.
Question: I’m pulling overnight shifts, so I think in all fairness you should give some Parenthood spoilers, please. —Amanda
Ausiello: Lauren Graham’s Sarah will be caught in a workplace love triangle with a hunky blue-collar forklift operator (True Blood‘s Kevin Alejandro) and Adam’s wealthy white-collar business partner (Billy Baldwin). “She has to make a choice between the two of us,” says Alejandro, before adding with a laugh, “Does she want money or just rugged good looks?”
Question: Can I get a Mad Men spoiler? —Derek
Ausiello: Assuming he submits last week’s flawlessly written and acted Don-and-Peggy-centric episode, Jon Hamm will be the first Mad thesp to win an Emmy next year, beating out fellow nominees Kyle Chandler, Steve Buscemi, Hugh Laurie, Michael C. Hall, and Peter Krause. Mark my words.
Question: I may have to go all Russell Edgington on somebody if I don’t get some more True Blood finale scoop. —Sara
Ausiello: This is sort of finale-related: Season 4 will pick up immediately where season 3 left off.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Ask Ausiello 8/25/10
Question: Any Glee scoop? —Ines
Ausiello: I’m hearing a major character (a series regular!) will find himself/herself in a literal life-and-death situation in this season’s third episode. In possibly related news (I say possibly because I honest-to-goodness don’t know), Chris Colfer’s Emmy-nominated TV dad Mike O’Malley tells us that episode 3 will be “another emotional, emotional episode” for father and son. The actor goes on to hint that the show will revisit the complicated dynamic between Burt and Kurt’s crush, Finn. “The last time I was on the show, [Burt] threw Finn out of the house. There [may] be some resolution there. One of the things I think is really important in life and for human beings is to forgive and be able to rise up from our mistakes. I’m hoping that Finn and Burt are able to cross that chasm.”
Question: I seem to recall you said that Chord Overstreet (a.k.a. Glee‘s newest stud) wouldn’t turn out to be Kurt’s new boyfriend. Jane Lynch tells it differently. —Ashley
Ausiello: Actually, Jane Lynch tells it exactly the same way I did. Snap.
Question: Will Glee ever cast Rachel’s “two gay dads”? Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick are my top picks! —Kim L
Ausiello: Series creator Ryan Murphy sounds doubtful. Though “people always ask me to do that…I don’t know that we ever will.” Maybe he’ll go with Lea Michele’s idea. Says the boss, she suggested “we see them in season 3, like a shot of Elton John cheering her on in an audience. I haven’t decided how I’m going to do that.”
Question: Got any Grey’s Anatomy scoop concerning the Alex/Lexie/Mark triangle? —Maura
Ausiello: Yep—said triangle no longer exists! “At the end of the season Alex was asking for Izzie,” Shonda Rhimes reminds me. “It’s really hard to feel like there’s a love triangle going on if the man Lexie loves is clearly asking for another woman. And she’s very clear on that by the time the [season premiere] is over.”
Question: Some news about the future of Josh Holloway in television? —Olivia
Ausiello: Funny story: Shortly after I posted my story linking Holloway to NBC’s Rockford Files remake, Doc Jensen emails me and says he had a conversation with JH about Rockford back in April when NBC started casting the pilot. Doc J mentioned to him that after watching the “Sawyer & Miles” cop show in the sideways world, he thought Holloway would make a perfect Jim Rockford. Holloway’s response? “I thought so, too! And I was like, no way, don’t even go there… because I love The Rockford Files. And I thought Ken [Leung] would be great for [Rockford's sidekick]. I would have loved that show. But I wanted to give movies a shot, so I never even pursued it.” But that was April. This is August. Fingers crossed Holloway is having a change of heart.
Question: Is it too early to get any plot-related Big Love scoop? —Rachael
Ausiello: It’s sure not. Ex-president Gregory Itzin tells us that his senator character and newly elected Bill “will butt heads. [Since] he’s come out as a polygamist, he’s taking a lot of political heat, and I become the spearhead for that, because I am the Speaker of the House.” But before the conclusion of the 24 baddie’s arc—he’s in at least five of the season’s 10 episodes—”I extend an olive branch, and he does too. But,” he adds, “I don’t know how long that will last.”
Question: Some Gossip Girl scoop regarding Rufus and Lily, please. They’re my favorite couple, and we’ve heard nothing about them. —Sly
Ausiello: A certain rat Bass-tard is going to come between them early in the season—relax, I’m not talking romantically. While Lily is more than willing to forgive Chuck for what happened with Jenny, Rufus is having a harder time moving past it. And just when he finally starts to come around, Eric lets him in on a little secret (hint: It pertains to an ugly incident from the pilot). Cue World War III.
Question: I fell in love with Dan and Vanessa last season on Gossip Girl. Needless to say, Dan’s out-of-nowhere “signs” about Serena in the finale threw me for a loop. Please say Dan and Vanessa aren’t over for good as a couple. —Sarah
Ausiello: I’m guessing it’s not over, since they move in together in episode 3!
Question: Got anything on Brothers & Sisters? —Tim
Ausiello: Producers are looking for a “celebrity name” to play Gilles Marini’s gorgeous (natch) sixtysomething TV mom, who comes to town and makes quite an impression on the Walker family. Got casting tips? Hit the comments!
Question: What happened to Duck on Mad Men? —Karen
Ausiello: I have a sneaking suspicion we’ll find out in this Sunday’s episode. Meanwhile, Rich Sommer (Harry) says he’s optimistic that current contract talks between series creator Matthew Weiner and Lionsgate will yield a positive outcome. “I think the show is him,” he says. “Could a show called Mad Men exist without Matt Weiner? It wouldn’t be the Mad Men that we know and care about. Hopefully everything will get worked out soon, and I will get the phone call saying so.”
Question: I will be cutting my Smurf doll in half unless I receive some good How I Met Your Mother scoop. Your move, Ausiello. —Matt
Ausiello: Back away from the doll! [Beat] Take another step back. [Beat] You’re still too close. [Beat] Okay, that’s good. Marshall and Lily waste no time starting Project Concepción. “We’re going to pick up right where season 5 left off—it’s night 1 of them trying to have a baby,” previews exec producer Craig Thomas. “I’m not saying it’s going to be pornographic, but we are going to dig right into Attempt No. 1. We’re going to join them at the very beginning of that journey.” In other HIMYM news…wedding scoop!
Question: I’m in desperate need of some Weeds scoop, especially regarding Andy! —Kristen
Ausiello: Someone’s about to get gang-spanked, and that someone is Andy.
Question: Please tell me some good 30 Rock scoop! —Cindy
Ausiello: Would you settle for good-ish? A casting call has gone out for an African-American male in the 30s-60s age range to play Rutherford Rice, the distinguished, well-spoken host of Right On, a fictitious talk show focusing on African-American issues. Is it racist of me to assume this probably involves Tracy? Probably.
Question: Are you going to make a list of the new shows we should watch, and the ones that we should miss? I have no idea how to set my DVR! —Amanda
Ausiello: Help has arrived…
Watch: Lone Star (Fox), Undercovers (ABC), The Event (NBC), No Ordinary Family (ABC), Raising Hope (Fox), Mike & Molly (CBS), Better With You (ABC), Hawaii 5-0 (CBS), and Nikita (The CW).
Miss: $#*! My Dad Says (CBS) and Hellcats (The CW).
If a new show you’re curious about isn’t listed above, it means either I’m on the fence (e.g., CBS’ The Defenders) or I haven’t watched the pilot yet (e.g., Outlaw).
Question: I’m sure you’re sick of Castle/Beckett-related questions, but it has to be asked: Is there any good news on the horizon for them? —Darla
Ausiello: There is good news: Series creator Andrew W. Marlowe confirms that they will hook up—eventually. “There will come a time in the series when [a relationship] will be worth exploring,” he says. “But I don’t think the characters are ready to go to that level now. We still have a lot of storytelling—a lot of near misses—left to explore and play with. In many ways, Beckett is still a mystery to Castle. She has other things going on in her life that she’s very cautious about exposing to him because she feels that he’s not ready. I think the fun of the series is watching them do that dance. And the dance can continue evolving to the point where they can be in a relationship. I just don’t think they’re ready for that right now.” That’s sorta good news, right?!
Question: Got any Castle scoop for us? —Jennifer
Ausiello: There’s a somewhat significant death in the second episode. I’m also hearing something about Castle revealing his REAL name.
Question: Thanks for the scoop about Monet Mazur (Gina) returning in Castle‘s fifth episode. Can you tell us anything else about the episode? What brings her back? —Heather
Ausiello: Per Marlowe, “Castle has to attend a charity event that Gina’s throwing that’s honoring her. Of course, Martha’s take on it is that it’s very narcissistic, but we find out later on that she’s doing it for all the noble reasons. The theme of the episode is the things we do for love.”
Question: Many fans of The Office are concerned that Pam dated Timothy Olyphant’s character post-Roy and pre-Jim. Is this the case? Is Jim just finding out about it now? —Matt
Ausiello: Yes to all of the above! According to executive producer Paul Lieberstein, Pam dated Olyphant while Jim was with Karen. “Everyone in the office makes a big deal of it, and we get into Jim’s jealousy a little bit,” he says. “It bothers him a little.”
Question: You tell us that Erica Durance is playing Isis on Smallville and you don’t elaborate? WTH? —Steve
Ausiello: Do you still not understand how this works? Ausiello TV is where the seed gets planted, and Ask Ausiello is where we watch the flower grow. Put another way, Ausiello TV is the foreplay to Ask Ausiello’s full-on shag. So whaddaya say we get down to business? “It’s an inhabitation story,” explains exec producer Brian Peterson of the Lois-Isis connection. “Lois is actually going to be possessed by the spirit of Isis.” Was it good for you, Steve? BTW, quick clarification: Smallville‘s Isis isn’t the DC Comics character Isis. It’s the Egyptian goddess Isis with a nod to the DC Isis. Understand? Good, now explain it to me.
Question: Anything on Chloe’s return yet on Smallville? —Maria26
Ausiello: Allison Mack will appear in the premiere and then return “in the middle of the season in a very impactful way in Clark’s life,” reveals Peterson. “It’s a great wrap-up to her character, and it also dovetails into the Chloe/Oliver relationship.”
Question: I have loved this season of Burn Notice so far, and I’m totally digging the addition of Coby Bell. But last week’s episode has me wondering: Now that (SPOILER ALERT!) Jesse knows that Michael burned him, what will become of Mr. Bell? —Kristina
Ausiello: He’ll be back for the second half of the season, don’t you worry. In the meantime, Jesse makes a choice in this week’s finale that will affect Michael in a major way. In possibly related news, the cliff-hanger finds Michael in the most perilous situation we’ve ever seen him in. And this dude’s been in some seriously perilous situations.
Question: The last two Ask Ausiellos haven’t had any scoop on the best series at this moment: The Good Wife! —Ingmar
Ausiello: Good thing we spoke to Alan Cumming over the weekend at the Creative Arts Emmys or else it would’ve been three in a row. Look for Eli to get “more heavily involved in Peter’s campaign,” he teases about his character’s story line this fall. “He gets meaner and ruthlesser.” Regarding his recent upgrade to series regular, Cumming says the biggest difference is “I get paid more. And I sort of have an idea of where my character is going now. [Before] I had no idea what was going to happen. The next week I could’ve been a murderer.”
Question: What are the chances Chuck will get a back-nine order? I’m freaking out over here! —Eric
Ausiello: I assumed exec producers Chris Fedak and Josh Schwartz would be too. But they’re not. As Schwartz points out, “We never started a season with more than 13 episodes. Like last year, we will hope for the best, plan for the worst, and be ready to have an incredible final episode 13 if need be with a contingency plan to keep the season going.” Adds Fedak: “Episode 13 no matter what will be epic.”
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
USA’s ‘Facing Kate’ plans, plus ‘Burn,’ ‘Psych’ dates
USA firmed up its fall and January premiere dates schedule, locking in its latest procedural "Facing Kate" and scheduling "Psych," "Burn Notice," "Royal Pains" and "White Collar."
Here's the deal:
-- Legal drama "Kate" debuts in January (full description below).
-- "Royal Pains" and "White Collar" will also return in January.
-- "Psych" and "Burn Notice" will return in November, the former on Wednesday Nov. 10 and the latter on Thursday, Nov. 11.
FACING KATE centers on Kate Reed (Shahi), a top litigator frustrated with the endless bureaucracy and daily injustices she witnesses, who turns on the system to become the ultimate anti-lawyer: a mediator. Using her knowledge of the law, along with her savvy, intuition and a whatever-it-takes approach to resolving conflict, Kate finds the middle ground for a wide variety of adversaries -- from Fortune 500 corporations to bitter divorces. After the death of her father, she finds herself at odds with the new boss, her stepmother Lauren Reed (Virginia Williams)...and in bed with her soon-to-be ex-husband, Justin Patrick (Michael Trucco), a top gun in the DA’s office. Helping her keep all of this chaos at bay is her trusted, geek-chic assistant Leonardo (Baron Vaughn). FACING KATE was created and is written and executive produced by Michael Sardo. Steve Stark also serves as executive producer and the series comes from Universal Cable Productions.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
TV Guide Megabuzz 8/10/10
What's Cristina up to when Grey's Anatomy returns? — Jenni
ADAM: She won't be great. While Cristina is usually the rock the other docs lean on, her reaction to the traumatic season finale rampage takes longer to sort out than some of the other surgeons. In fact, when she is finally cleared to go back into surgery, an accident in the OR freaks her out so much that she collapses into a sobbing mess on the floor.
Can we get some more Modern Family scoop? — Rusty
MICKEY: If you were as tickled as we were to discover that Mitchell and Claire were once an figure-skating duo named Fire and Ice, you're going to love the next nugget of shame we extract from the Pritchett family vault. It seems that young Mitch was once ... a child actor. Roll the tapes, please!
Have you learned any extra details about Sela Ward's character on CSI: NY? — Elle
ADAM: I got a few straight from Ward's mouth during a recent visit to the set. Her character, Jo Danville, has a son, whom she adopted from a woman she helped put away. She's also amicably divorced, which Ward says she hopes will lead to some romantic tension between Jo and Gary Sinise's Mac. Also, her first day on the job will be a doozy: She finds a dead body — in the crime lab!
I haven't heard anything about a Sam Waterston type for Law & Order: Los Angeles yet. Will there be a district attorney? — Joel
MICKEY: Yep, and we're hearing that Deputy District Attorney Dekker (Terrence Howard) is not a fan. Like most DAs in the Law & Order universe, LO:LA's will be very politically motivated, especially when it comes to the police, whose support he needs for re-election. Another fun LO:LA fact: Skeet Ulrich's character, Detective Winters, is married to a woman who was once his partner — and his mistress!
I'm dying to know how One Tree Hill will resolve the Quinn-Clay cliffhanger! — Samantha
ADAM: They both initially survive the shooting, but Clay is in pretty bad shape. We're hearing that he is still in the hospital as of Episode 3, and it could get even more grim: In that same episode, viewers will spend lots of time with Clay's ghost.
This baby-switch storyline on Desperate Housewives seems a little dark. How can the powers that be possibly avoid tragedy in telling it? — Angela N.
MICKEY: I don't know, but it seems that they can. We've been sworn to secrecy, of course, but suffice it to say that people can be related in many ways. Perhaps the switch happened for a very good reason, and that it's ultimately for the best — for both kids in question.
Is it really over between Rigsby and Van Pelt on The Mentalist? — Amber
ADAM: It is for now, at least on the surface. "They're skirting around the idea. They're pretending that they're OK with the fact that they're not dating anymore, but they're not OK with it," says Amanda Righetti, who feels the 'shippers' pain. "I was sad they weren't together longer. There's something about his protectiveness with her that I think is really charming."
Who are the new boyfriends this season on Gossip Girl? — Lisa
MICKEY: We already told you that Serena will play le field a bit in Paris. But besides armfuls of couture and croissant-related love handles, she may also tote a cute boy back to New York. But don't get too attached. He's an older man with responsibilities — and he may not have the patience for S. & Co.'s collegiate antics.
What can you tell me about the returns of Brainiac and Supergirl on Smallville? — Jeff
ADAM: James Marsters returns as Brainiac 5, who, despite being a member of the Legion of Super-Heroes in the comic books, executive producer Kelly Souders describes as "a slippery fish" with a questionable moral compass. As for Supergirl, expect her to have a more dramatic impact this time around: "She's going to shake up the world for our superheroes," Souders says.
Is Bill really going to be in the state Senate this season on Big Love? — Cheryl Lin
MICKEY: Yes, although so far it seems like the greater legacy of Season 4's wild tangle of plotlines is going to be Bill's dangerous declaration. Joining him at the Statehouse will be two young Mormon men who have taken very different paths to get there. The first is a former "lost boy" who, like Bill, has eked out a respectable life despite his challenges. The second has had it easier, and his sheltered upbringing will present itself in his most unusual relationship with women.
When will Jesse figure out that Michael burned him on Burn Notice? — Mitch
ADAM: It will definitely happen before the finale, and things are going to get ugly — and deadly — fast. "There is a big blowout," Sharon Gless tells us. "I can say without ruining the story that Jesse's going to try to kill Michael." Wow, what can't she say?
Confirm for me my suspicion that Kate is not really dead on White Collar. — Jonathan S.
MICKEY: I'll do no such thing. Instead I'll say only that Kate will be returning to the show in a manner that will present her character, and that plane explosion, in a very different light. It won't be good news for poor Neal.
Adam's Mega Rave: Three episodes in and Jon Hamm already has his Emmy tape for this season of Mad Men. His effortless transition into Dick Whitman was punctuated this time around by his heartbreaking goodbye to the unknowingly cancer-stricken Anna, who, sadly, probably won't ever meet the Draper kids.
Mickey's Mini Rant: If you stay in the house, Angelina, you really are going to get your a-- beat — by Jersey Shore viewers.
Reader Quote of the Week: "I wish we could find a remote island somewhere and move the Palins, the Gosselins, Mel Gibson, Lindsay Lohan, the balloon boy and his family there. They could all start their own dysfunctional society." — marsky, reacting to Levi Johnston's decision to run for mayor of Wasilla, Alaska — for a reality show, of course.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Cable shows with the wealthiest viewers
Two-time drama series Emmy winner "Mad Men" returned to AMC on Sunday night after a whirlwind of previews and promotions in print, broadcast and online.
Despite all the attention and the show's affluent viewership, "Mad Men" has averaged far fewer viewers than other summer cable dramas like USA's "Burn Notice," and ad rates also are lower.
An average 30-second spot on first-run episodes of "Mad Men" fetches about $20,000-$25,000, according to a recent trade media report -- not much, but it is a multiple of AMC's primetime movies. Plus, AMC bets that marquee shows boost its visibility, image and value.
"Shows like this help improve their branding, which increases their value to multichannel operators," SNL Kagan analyst Derek Baine said. "They are hoping with more original high-profile programming, they can increase license fees."
Ratings for Sunday's Season 4 premiere of "Mad Men" are expected Monday.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
‘Burn Notice’ prequel movie announced
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by Philiana Ng | July 22nd, 2010 at 12:56 pm | View Comments
USA has just announced at Comic-Con a "Burn Notice" prequel movie, starring none other than Bruce Campbell.
Campbell will produce and star in the project, said USA programming chief Jeff Wachtel.
The movie will show Sam Axe on his last day of military service and how he became the character he is today.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
TV Guide Megabuzz 7/20/10
Got any good info on Season 3 of The Mentalist? — Connor
ADAM: Get ready to meet Patrick Jane's con man brother-in-law. He's charismatic and uses his charm and bravado to mask his anxieties. Even though he blames Jane for his sister's death, he'll have to rely on him when he's suspected of murder.
Who will Quinn hook up with on Glee this season? — Oleg
MICKEY: Dianna Agron will have quite a full dance card this season. There's sure to be the inevitable push-pull between Finn and Puck, but more surprising will be her role in Kurt's new romance. Cheerleaders love football players, right?
Any more teases before the Mad Men premiere? — Danny
ADAM: Someone has a new "fiancé" (not who you think) and someone goes on a blind date (also not who you think).
Give me something on the new season of Desperate Housewives. — Kathy
MICKEY: Paul Young's new wife has a secret, and it's a doozy. Remember: They tied the knot while he was in the slammer, and, well, they were never able to consummate their union. Now that he's free and they can finally be together, that's going to be a problem.
I need some Grey's Anatomy scoop. Got anything on McSteamy? — Janelle
ADAM: Sloan will team with Callie to perform a major operation in the Season 7 premiere. The patient is a 19-year-old young man who suffers twitches and facial drooping because of an advanced tumor. It's so advanced, in fact, that his family has already held a living memorial for him before the surgery.
So ... what is the event of The Event? — James
MICKEY: Great promos, right? As you've seen, there are several strange events that occur within the first hour of NBC's new mystery thriller series. But trust me when I tell you that none of them compares to the one that closes the episode. It will definitely have you wondering what takes place in Episode 2.
It's been a while since we've heard anything about Castle. What do you know? — Kelly
ADAM: I hear the show is looking to add a (possibly recurring) character to the cast. A middle-aged former cop-turned-bounty-hunter, the character is described as a larger-than-life figure with a good sense of humor. I smell a one-liner showdown with Castle.
Will Liam and Annie ever really get together on 90210? — Tracy
MICKEY: You might think that Naomi is an obstacle, since irrational jealousy and self-centeredness are kind of her thing, but after a windfall of good luck, she'll be otherwise occupied by more materialistic pursuits. Instead, look for Annie's eye to turn toward an older man, whose love of words appeals to her inner actress. (Here's hoping it stays inner.)
I would love some intel on the new season of Smallville. — Will
ADAM: And I'd love to give you some: Carter Hall (aka Hawkman) will return in Season 10's second episode, presumably to help Clark & Co. fight this season's big bad. And there will also be a new face, as Clark gets assigned a new partner at the Daily Planet when Lois takes a temporary leave. The character, who seems to be hiding something, is very vocal in her disdain for masked superheroes.
Based on last week's storyline about Drama's new show, will John Stamos ever actually appear on Entourage? — Dana L.
MICKEY: Yes! Before he brings his Kokomo on over to Glee, Uncle Jesse will brighten up an upcoming episode with a characteristic cameo — characteristic for the show, that is. Stamos plays himself as a spoiled, petulant actor who's also a sore loser, which might be Drama's downfall.
Any scoop on what's coming up on Burn Notice? — Skye
ADAM: Burt Reynolds guest-stars in Thursday's episode as Paul Anderson, a retired spy whose work during the Cold War comes back to haunt him in the form of a Russian special-ops team of assassins. While Michael protects Paul, Fiona has to destroy some evidence to keep Jesse from discovering that Michael burned him.
Are we going to see Divya's wedding on Royal Pains? — Fil
MICKEY: It's unclear when that might take place within the show's "eternal summer" timeline. Divya's engagement to Raj is still on, but her fidelity will be tested when she meets a man one might call heroic. Their flirtation is both poignant and hilarious, and might just lead to something real, if Jill has anything to say about it.
Adam's Mega Rave: Note to casting agents looking for baddies: Put Titus Welliver on your show. Fresh off Lost and The Good Wife (and soon returning to Sons of Anarchy), he gave a menacing performance that elevated this week's episode of The Closer.
Mickey's Mini Rant: Why is guest star Scott Caan's Scotty Lavin the most interesting character on Entourage?
Reader Quote of the Week: "Kara, make yourself useful and teach that boy how to fly!" — Chappel, upon hearing that Laura Vandervoort will reprise the role of Kara Zor-El, aka Supergirl, on Smallville
Thursday, July 1, 2010
TV’s New Summer Dramas Are Struggling, But They Still May Be the Networks’ Best Option
This summer ABC and Fox execs made a decision: no more using the summer as a time to coast on reruns, reality, or dumped regular-season rejects like The Goode Family and Mental, two shows you don't remember for very good reasons. No, this year they would spend the money to pack June, July, and August with original scripted series. After all, cable proved that you can build buzz in the summer, what with past hot-weather debuts as Mad Men and True Blood.
Unfortunately, it looks like all of the networks' viewers aren't cooperating: Only one of these new scripted shows, ABC's Rookie Blue, has gotten any notable sampling. It would seem like the great Original Programming Gamble of 2010 has been a crushing failure … except for one thing, say network execs: In the new, diminished world of network television, even these dismally rated shows may be their best option.
Summer used to be the season of reruns; extra airings cost little and usually generated fair Nielsen numbers. And viewers had no choice but to watch them because, well, what the hell else were they gonna do? But now we're in the world of TiVo, Hulu, and "Hey, I'll just watch the whole season of 24 on Netflix!" While some shows — half-hour comedies, just about everything on CBS — still draw acceptable numbers the second (and third) time around, the rest drop precipitously. "At one point, a repeat [earned ratings] of about 50 percent of the original run," says Fox strategist-in-chief Preston Beckman. "Now it's often 20 or 25 percent. You're always going to repeat some of your schedule ... but it's changed."
The networks first tried to fill the summer with cheap reality shows, which have been showing diminishing returns: They don't get the buzz they used to, and producers have been upping their rates. Plus, advertisers pay more for scripted shows than for reality. So this year ABC and Fox aggressively ordered original dramas, and made every effort to turn them into hits. Take Fox's The Good Guys, a breezy caper starring Bradley Whitford and Colin Hanks created by Matt Nix (who also made USA's summer hit, Burn Notice). The network promoted it relentlessly during the late spring, touting the show during such hits as American Idol and House, and previewing the first episode after one of the last Idols of the season. Yet barely 4.6 million folks tuned in for the June 7 premiere, fewer than who watched the premiere of TV Land's Hot in Cleveland. By this week, Good Guys's number was down to 4.2 million. "The Good Guys is not doing as well as we had hoped," concedes Beckman.
The Alphabet network green-lit a trio of first-run shows: the quirky con-man dramedy Scoundrels, supernatural The Gates, and young-cops hour Rookie Blue (or Grey's Academy, as some have tagged it). Rookie had a notable debut; it was sampled by more than 7 million viewers, giving ABC its best numbers for scripted summer fare in six years and drawing solid numbers with young adults. But the other two originals, paired on Sunday, only had so-so kickoffs in early June and have only cooled off since: Last week's episodes were seen by barely 3 million viewers, down about 25 percent from their premieres.
However, as awful as these numbers might seem, they're in line with the ratings of most mid-level scripted cable summer shows, like Lifetime's Drop Dead Diva and TNT's Leverage. More important, most are actually doing better than the ratings Fox and ABC generated last summer with repeats. "Even at a 1.1 [in the key demo of 18-49], The Gates is doing better than the 0.6 we did last year in the time slot with a repeat," notes ABC scheduling chief Jeff Bader.
But is it financially viable? After all, scripted shows are more expensive to make, right? Not necessarily, as the networks have found ways to cut costs without (completely) sacrificing quality. For example, they're now picking up shows originally produced for other countries (like the Canadian-born-and-aired Rookie Blue, whose sub-$500,000 per episode license fee is less than a third the cost of a typical U.S.-produced drama). And, they're green-lighting series — such as The Good Guys — with built-in international partners who will air the show in their countries; it's a model that lets U.S. networks have a say in how a show is put together without having to pay full freight for its production.
Meanwhile, summertime cable hits like Burn Notice and TNT's The Closer, with audiences over 6 million, are now regularly matching or exceeding the tune-in numbers for many network reality shows and repeats. That means networks face losing even more summertime ad dollars to cable if they don't find a way to better compete in the off-season.
So while the networks would obviously like ratings for scripted summer fare to be higher, original dramas (and maybe one day first-run comedies) can still turn a profit for networks, even when the numbers seem tiny. "The license fees [on most summer originals] are reasonable," says another network executive, "which allows us to not freak out about the numbers in the same way we might if they cost as much as regular season shows."
But why isn't anyone showing up to see these new shows? The Gates and Scoundrels are certainly no Mad Men, but had they premiered in September, they probably would have gotten a better sampling. A big part of the problem is that, after decades of networks clearing out after May sweeps, viewers have been conditioned not to look for new scripted series on broadcast TV during summer. And this habit can't be broken in just one season. (It doesn't help that some networks are still using summer for burn-off theater; see NBC's 100 Questions and Persons Unknown.) "We've trained the audience to think summer is not a time to watch scripted shows on the networks," Bader theorizes. "There's a part of me that thinks people say: 'It's summer; these shows can't be good.'"
One way to change that perception, execs say, is to start blurring the lines between the regular season and summer by having shows premiere in, say, April and air through September (or by having June bows remain in prime time until December). The latter strategy is one Fox has said it plans to use with The Good Guys: After a summer run on Mondays, Guys will shift to Fridays (along with Lie to Me Human Target) during the fall. The low ratings for Guys has already prompted clucking from rival networks that Fox won't possibly keep such a low-rated series on the air though the fall. But Beckman says: Why not? "There's been no discussion about doing anything but keeping our heads down and staying the course," he says. "If Guys were going to be our Monday show in the fall, maybe we'd have to reconsider. But given the low bar we and the other networks have set for ourselves on Fridays, if the show stays where it is, that's okay for us."
Beckman and ABC's Bader are also both strong advocates of practicing patience with summer shows. After all, HBO's True Blood premiered in late summer 2008 to barely 1.5 million viewers, grew to 3.7 million with its second season bow last June, and this year started off its third year with over 5 million viewers. "The longer you leave a show on, the more sampling it gets," Bader says. "If there's more buzz, if people hear about a show again and again, they might" check it out.
That's why, despite the seemingly soft early numbers for the summer class of 2010, it won't be a complete shocker if a show like the Scoundrels or Rookie Blue ends up returning for another season next summer. "This isn't an experiment that's going to go away," Bader says. "This is just the start." As Beckman puts it, "We aren't going back." And unless viewers prefer reruns of the canceled FlashForward, they might want to help them go forward.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Ausiello spoilers: Fringe, Burn Notice, more
Fringe fans, the wait is over: Producers have officially settled on the title of the show’s third-season premiere, and the latest episode of Ausiello TV is the only place you’ll find it. (Hint: Said title is very much in keeping with Fringe tradition. And it makes complete sense given the events of the season 2 finale.) Speaking of exclusives, you’ll also be treated to a first look at an explosive (literally!) Michael-Fiona clip from Burn Notice‘s July 15 episode, as well as a never-before-seen “prop” from the set of the upcoming Smurfs feature film. Enjoy!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
USA gives Burn Notice, Royal Pains 18 episodes, In Plain Sight only 13
USA is giving "Burn Notice" and "Royal Pains" their longest seasons yet.
Both series are set to run 18 episodes this season with their summer finales (after 12 episodes) set for Thursday, August 26. Each will then return in the winter for their six remaining installments.
In addition, USA has provided the details behind its decision to wrap "In Plain Sight's" third season after 13 episodes:
"John McNamara, executive producer and showrunner of USA Network's IN PLAIN SIGHT, took a leave of absence for medical reasons," producer Universal Cable Productions said in a statement released to the site exclusively. "John Romano assumed executive producer responsibilities for the remaining episodes. Given the unexpected change, we decided to end the season at a natural spot -- with the surprising cliffhanger of episode 13."
Originally set for 16 installments, the current season will instead conclude Wednesday, June 30 at 10:00/9:00c.
Numb3rs Vet Navi Rawat On Burn Notice
Numb3rs vet Navi Rawat is jumping right back into troubled waters with a dark, sexy role as a mystery woman named Kendra who gets involved with Jeffrey Donovan's Michael Westen on USA Network's Burn Notice.
"My character starts out as the girl next door, but it turns out she's not at all what she appears to be," teases Navi, whose three-episode arc kicks off June 24. "Fiona (Gabrielle Anwar) is investigating a case when she first meets my character who is involved in her neighborhood watch program. I appear to be a good, upstanding citizen, but it turns out she has ties to the underworld. She's a pretty explosive surprise."
Navi grew up in Miami where Burn Notice shoots and had come home for a friend's wedding when she was offered the role. "I was able to give the cast and producers a lot of restaurant tips," says the actress, 33. "Miami has a lot of hidden gems."
Navi says her character will turn out to be the polar opposite of her Numb3rs character, Amita, who never got the big splashy wedding to Charlie (David Krumholtz) that Navi had long hoped for.
"To be honest, I would have liked for them to have had a more proper wedding instead of that makeshift wedding," says the actress of the long-running CBS drama's series finale. "We were supposed to have a big wedding and Amita was supposed to get a nice promotion. It all got wrapped up too quickly. But that's what happens when a show gets cancelled. Was it the ideal ending? I don't think so, but in light of the fact that our episode order was reduced, I think they did the best they could. All that was really important was for the two of them to end up together. Rob Morrow said we were lucky we even had a month to pull a finale together."
So what's the chance of her Burn Notice character getting a splashy wedding to Michael Westen? Navi just laughs, turning coy. "We'll see," she says. "There's definitely sparks. I was very excited to work with Jeffrey and had a wonderful time with him and was made to feel very much at home."
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Ask Ausiello - 6/9/10
Question: I love the idea of Lynda Carter playing Ma Bartowski on Chuck. Do you know if she’s seriously being considered for the role? —Andy
Ausiello: I asked Josh Schwartz that very question and here’s what the boss man had to say: “I’m a big fan of women with lassos. [Lynda's] an icon as an actress and is someone who fits the show’s universe…but not necessarily for this role.” Translation: It’s a long shot. So what kind of actress is he looking for to play Chuck’s MIA spy ma? “I don’t want to shed too much light on the character,” he hedges, “but we need someone who can kick ass.” Okay, let’s go with my second choice then: Jamie Lee Curtis. Who’s with me?
Question: I’m looking for a Community bulletin. —Frida
Ausiello: If by that you mean, will I give you some fall scoop, sure, Frida. Though we now know that Senor Chang isn’t qualified to be a Spanish professor anyplace but Sesame Street, Ken Jeong will be back. Even before his character was exposed as a fraud, “I was worried,” he admits, “because I knew they couldn’t take Spanish forever at community college.” But now the teacher will become a student. And “I think he will definitely try to hang with Winger a lot more,” Jeong suggests. “He’ll relate to him, because [the former lawyer] is also at Greendale because he got caught without the credentials for his job.”
Question: What were you doing on the Parks and Recreation set last week (aside from giving your iPhone camera a workout)? —Chandler
Ausiello: I was shooting a very special episode of Ausiello TV, to debut at some point next week. In the meantime, here’s some hot scoop straight from Pawnee: A certain female character will be involved in a new romance at the start of season 3. Oh, looky here — a clue!
Question: I am desperate for some True Blood! Can you help a girl out? —Kelley
Ausiello: While on the set last week for the Ultimate Fan Experience, I spied a very creepy scene being shot between Lafayette (Nelsan Ellis) and his new beau, Jesus (played by Kevin Alejandro) that sheds new light on something Ellis told my colleague Tim Stack in this week’s Entertainment Weekly cover story. “There is absolutely more to him than meets the eye,” he teased. “There is something supernatural about Jesus, and how dark it is has yet to be seen.”
Question: Any chance True Blood will bring Maryann back from the dead? —Will
Ausiello: No chance. But exec producer Alan Ball hints that, “We will be seeing some people that we thought were gone this year.” He also reveals that this season’s Big Bad will prove far more difficult to get rid of than Michele Forbes’ bat-s— crazy maenad. “We’ve had two seasons where the arch villain sort of met his or her demise,” he says. “I’m looking at a different way to dispatch our arch villain this year so that he might be able to come back in the future.” I can’t be sure but I think he’s talking about this guy.
Question: Not to jump the gun, but I’ve already seen season 4 of Friday Night Lights (on DirecTV), so I’m dying for some season 5 scoop on coach Taylor & Co. —Hattie
Ausiello: When Jason returns to Dillon, he’ll be a full-fledged sports agent and a married man.
Question: You wouldn’t happen to have any scoop on whether Smallville will be casting a new baddie for its 10th and final season? —Zach
Ausiello: While I have no official info on season 10′s Big Bad, I think we can safely assume — based on a certain scene in last month’s season finale — that Clark will be squaring off against DC Comics’ fire-eyed baddie Darkseid. Got casting suggestions? Hit the comments!
Question: Could you tell me if Sarah Drew is coming back next season on Grey’s Anatomy? Her performance was the best thing about the finale. It’d be a shame if Shonda Rhimes doesn’t bring her back. —Newton
Ausiello: Extra! Extra! Read all about it!
Question: That’s great news about Jesse Williams becoming a series regular on Grey’s Anatomy. Let’s hope Shonda does the right thing and pairs him with Sandra Oh. I love me some Jackson and Cristina. —Marsha
Ausiello: Unfortunately, Williams’ gut is telling him Jastina is not in the cards next season. “My hunch is that if I were to get a love interest, it would be someone new,” he says. “I feel like everyone has been with everyone and most people seem secure in their relationships for now. But I really like working with Sandra so it would be fine by me…But full disclosure, I know nothing. The writers and Shonda have disclosed nothing to me about season 7. But I’m excited for him to make more fully developed relationships with the other [characters]. I want to get myself more embedded and do more doctor work. People always ask about the romance stuff, but I find the hospital business and the surgeries way more fascinating.”
Question: Any chance for a romantic spark between Cal and Gillian on Lie to Me? —Julie
Ausiello: They hug in this Monday’s very eventful episode, but I hear it’s more tender than romantic.
Question: I don’t suppose you could give us a list of the TV shows that will be at Comic-Con this year. Pretty please? —Jeff
Ausiello: Can I link you to a rundown instead? Pretty please?
Question: Please tell me that Gossip Girl is not going to play the amnesia card with Chuck next season. —Simone
Ausiello: Gossip Girl is not going to play the amnesia card with Chuck next season. But the little Bass-tard will emerge from his near-death experience a very changed man.
Question: Any Gossip Girl scoop regarding Nate and Serena? Are they really finished? —Kayla
Ausiello: The fact that producers are casting a new love interest for Nate should answer your question.
Question: Do you have any idea how Dexter will “resurrect” Rita next season? —Mark
Ausiello: I know how they won’t. They won’t flash back to her grisly murder at the hands of Mr. T. And they also won’t pick up right where they left off — with Rita drowning in a pool of blood. And in both cases I say, thanks very much Dexter writers!
Question: On 30 Rock, Jack’s lady Avery is preggo. Does that mean Elizabeth Banks is sticking around the Rock full time next season? —Andrea
Ausiello: Nope, it sure doesn’t. While Banks will definitely be back, there are no plans for her to become a series regular. As my former Scrubs costar told me back in January, “[I'm] having too much fun making movies [to commit to a TV show]. The [TV jobs] are a really fun thing to do between movie gigs.”
Question: Burn Notice scoop? Anything? —Craig
Ausiello: Later this season, look for Michael to go undercover as ex-CIA bigwig Gustav “Gus” Avrakotos. Sort of. According to Jeffrey Donovan, an upcoming episode was inspired by “Philip Seymour Hoffman’s character in Charlie Wilson’s War. I take on that type of persona. That was a lot of fun to do.”
Question: What’s the buzz on NBC’s The Cape? —Clint
Ausiello: Well, if the pilot is half as entertaining as the interview I conducted with the show’s stars (David Lyons and Summer Glau) at NBC’s upfront event, I predict a massive hit!
Question: I hate to admit it, but I kind of dug Pretty Little Liars. I'm worried about the central mystery dragging on forever though. Please put my mind at ease. —Jennifer
Ausiello: I'll let the show's star Lucy Hale do the honors instead. "By the end of the first season, viewers will find out what happened to our friend and who is threatening us," she reveals. "And there are a bunch of twists and turns that would take us into season two — should we be so lucky."
Question: Amazing job hosting the True Blood Q&A! But do you have any scoop on Greek's upcoming season? —Joanna
Ausiello: What say you, series creator Sean Smith? "Mid-way through our 10-episode cycle we have an episode entitled 'All About Beav,' which tells the story of an episode through the perspective of our Beaver. He's an awesome character played by the strapping Aaron Hill, who has been in the periphery of so many of our episodes. He's a huge fan favorite and we finally get to see more of his life. As well as a love interest for him. Someone our audience might even know pretty well." Who's Beav's sweetie? Hit the comments with your guesses!
Monday, June 7, 2010
Casting News for Burn Notice, Covert Affairs, Parks and Recreation
* Burn Notice: John Seda (Homicide, The Pacific) will guest star on the USA smash later this season as Cole, a disgruntled ex-Marine who now works as a killer for hire. Elsewhere, Tim Matheson and Garrett Dillahunt have signed on to reprise their respective roles as “Dead” Larry Sizemore and jailbird Simon.
* Covert Affairs: The forthcoming USA thriller has tapped Friday Night Lights‘ D.W. Moffett to play a magnetic and powerful senator and chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee. Annie (Piper Perabo) is assigned to investigate the Senator after a leak is suspected in compromising a number of overseas military operations. Lauren Holly (NCIS) will appear as the senator’s refined and graceful wife.
* Parks and Recreation: Carlo Mendez (brother to Eva) has booked a multi-episode arc on the unfairly-benched-till-mid-season comedy. He’ll play a love interest for [major spoiler alert].
