The Hoff's Got Talent!

A&E has officially pulled the plug on The Hasselhoff’s reality television show, canceling after just two episodes.

“The Hasselhoffs” reality television show was centered on the former “Knight Rider” and “Baywatch” star with daughters, Hayley (18) and Taylor Ann (20), who were both trying to break into show business (More specifically, music).

According to friends, the fate of "The Hasselhoffs" had been determined on its first night when the second consecutive episode saw viewing figures drop from 718,000 to 505,000.

I was not able to view the initial, nor subsequent episode of the program, however are we beginning to notice a pattern of predictability?

A reality show premier has become similar to a movie premier, where in which the numbers (Viewership for TV, Box Office receipts for movies) must show clear signs of potential profit.

If recent history is an indication (Sarah Palin's Alaska/TLC), most reality programs typically receive high viewership for the initial episode, due to heavy promotion and marketing, only to quickly drop the following week.

The family filmed 10 episodes - with one showing their dog having therapy for tennis ball addiction. Execs had hoped it would match the success of fly-on-the-wall show The Osbournes but, according to sources, the remaining eight episodes will not be aired, until further notice.

First to admit, I have quite a fondness and think the world of David Hasselhoff (No, I'm not German). Hasselhoff never fails to present a high level of entertaining 'machismo' and often a shameless characterization of his brazen bravado (Frequently refers to himself in third person).

I grew up watching "Knight Rider" (More or less) and even occasionally enjoyed watching the show Baywatch - everyone has seen Baywatch at one point or another.

Having said, it is likely that 'The Hoff' knows something in which we are all unaware. After all, he has with stood the test of time spanning many decades of television: Knight Ridder, Baywatch, America's Got Talent, Dancing with the Stars, numerous music videos, a Roast, a drunken cheeseburger viral video, and a self-titled reality show.

By all intents and purposes, 'Hoff' has relished in a long-time music career throughout Europe (Particularly Germany - where Germans LOVE David Hasselhoff), and has a full schedule of concert tour dates.

Hello? 'The Hoff ' even has his own iPhone App - You know you've made it big when you have your own iPhone App and is active on Twitter.

One lesson to be learned from 'The Hoff' is that he does not take himself too seriously and has incredible interaction, appreciation for his fans - This could quite possibly be the secret to longevity in Hollywood stardom.

Recently I had the pleasure of being stuck in traffic right behind 'The Hoff', our vehicles were literally bumper-to-bumper for a good 40 minutes. I did not even have a chance to say "Hello" as I was on the phone in heavy negotiation...I slowed and waved upon passing his vehicle.

And, now for the good news...

The 58-year-old actor, who was once a judge on “America’s Got Talent”, will now be one of the esteemed judges on "Britain's Got Talent" - thus replacing Piers Morgan. It was announced in the spring of 2010 that Morgan would be the successor to the retiring Larry King (Larry King Live/CNN).

Go Hoff!

How To Kill A Moose...You Betcha!

Welcome to the Sarah Palin Show Better Known As Sarah Palin's Alaska

Former Vice-Presidential candidate and the woman who will just not go away, Sarah Palin has become the latest victim (Oops, 'Talent') to score a reality television show on TLC (Discovery Communications), thus joining the ranks of Kate Plus 8, Big People Little World, Cake Boss, Toddlers and Tiaras, and a number of 'unique' others.

Step Away From The Dead Moose
Both A&E and Discovery had proposed ideas of their shows, however it appears as if the "Prize" went to Discovery. According to friends, the price per episode would pay Palin between $1-1.5 million. Wait, is Palin still being paid a salary as former Governor?

Well, as mentioned on several previous occasions, for someone who condemns Hollywood and the Media at every possible Photo Opp and Press Conference (-?) - she appears to be in desperate search to extend her 15 minutes in the spotlight. Hey Tina Fey, I mean Sarah Palin - just remember Jon & Kate, Nick & Jessica, Travis & Shanna, Hulk & Linda, Reggie & Kim - just a thought...(Photo/Reuters)

Hoff-Tastic!

Former Baywatch star, David Hasselhoff, has announced that he is leaving America's Got 'Chicken Catcher' Talent, to star in his own reality show on A&E.

I was behind David one day in lovely grid-lock traffic on 405 freeway for a nice 45 minutes, so I have a soft spot for Hoff (Watching Knight Ridder as kid also helped).

Even better, I'm guessing the show will be called something revolutionary such as, "Hoff" - ? Or, another variation of a title that would undoubtedly contain his name and/or reference.

Having said, one could be certain the show will be big in Germany. You gotta' love the confidence...
(Photo/ANI)

Make Believe Action Hero - Real Life Lawman?

A&E Television Networks (A&E) has reported record breaking premiere of the new series, 'Steven Seagal: Lawman' with just over 3 million viewers.

My Comment: You are well aware of my great love for A&E - one of the few Cable Nets that I personally spend time watching.

Aside from having a content rich and aesthetically pleasing website (I do pay attention), miraculously and equally as impressive, I always happen to see obscure broadcasts of The Matrix - one of my favorite movies (Friends at A&E, I am watching...).

However for some unknown reason, I managed to miss the "Cops meets Above The Law" skein starring the over characterized, older, wider version of 'Casey Ryback'. So what if our scowling Action Star does not actually do any of his own scowling stunts, or play the same one dimensional scowling character hell bent on a scowling revenge, or even involved in a fabricated scowling affiliation with a secret, unconfirmed nor denied, government agency....Ah, but in a twist, really just the scowling cook...Amazing.

More important, I have yet to take a formal survey from you, my group of trusted constituents, as to the general temperature check and overall feedback on the show. After all, we are the pulse of Pop Culture. Having said, remember the show, 'Armed and Famous' -?

Emails welcome.

Your Reality TV Emmy Nominees...

Friends!

Well, here we are in another great week...Hope all is well. On this side, business is robust and I could not be happier (Ah, let me rephrase this comment, on the subject of more profits, I am always in a good mood).

Speaking of, I bring even more good news. We have received the latest group of Emmy Nominations, so without further delay, let us get right down to business.

Here is what we have that pertains to our favorite subject of Reality TV...

Twenty-two reality television shows received a total of 63 nominations in last week's announcement of the 61st Annual Primetime Emmy Awards nominees -- with the number of shows and amount of total nominations both representing the genre's highest figures ever.

Leading the 2008-2009 reality TV Emmy Awards nomination field for the third consecutive year is Dancing with the Stars (ABC), which received 10 nominations from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences -- besting the eight it had received each of the last two years.

In addition, Dancing with the Stars (10 nominations) represents the most ever for a reality series in a single year and the show was able to claim two Emmy Awards last year after it had previously been shut out in 2006-2007. The series had received six nominations in its first season in 2005-2006 and won a total of exactly two, to be precise.

American Idol (Fox) received eight nominations, tying its previous record in 2005-2006 and placing it second behind only Dancing with the Stars. AI has claimed one Emmy Award in each of the last two years after it had previously been shut out during its first four years of eligibility, despite receiving 22 nominations.

The Amazing Race (CBS) quite possibly the most successful reality show at the Emmys with 11 statues -- received seven nominations, placing it behind only Dancing with the Stars and American Idol. The seven nominations represent the highest total ever for The Amazing Race, which had been nominated for six Emmys last year and five Emmys in each of the previous three years.

Moreover, The Amazing Race was once again nominated in the Outstanding Reality-Competition Program category, which it has won every year since the Academy first created the category six years ago.

The host of the show, Phil Keoghan, was recognized by receiving a nod in the Outstanding Host For A Reality Or Reality-Competition Program category.

Keoghan will be competing in a six-nomination field that also includes a shared nomination for Top Chef (Bravo) host Padma Lakshmi and "co-host" and top judge, Tom Colicchio.

The remaining competitors also within the category, American Idol host Ryan Seacrest, Project Runway host Heidi Klum 'Seal', Dancing with the Stars host Tom Bergeron, and Survivor host Jeff 'Dimples' Probst -- all of whom were included in the category's inaugural set of nominees last year and the group of hosts that cannot ad-lib in front of a live audience, if you may recall (Minus Howie Mandel).

Bravo's Top Chef and So You Think You Can Dance (ABC) each received their highest total of nominations ever with a total of 5 nominations (Both in their fourth year of eligibility and won one award each last year).

Other nominees included: Kathy Griffin's My Life On The D-List (Bravo), Dirty Jobs and Deadliest Catch (Discovery) - Hi Tom B!, Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations (Travel Channel), MythBusters and Dog Whisperer (National Geographic), Intervention (A&E), and The American Life (Showtime).

How I Met Your Mother star Neil Patrick Harris, who was nominated as an outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series, will serve as your host.

The 61st Primetime Emmy Awards airs September 20th, on CBS.

Welcome To Your 2009 Reality!

Hey Fans!

Happy New Year -

Just returning from the holiday break and there is a ton of 'stuff' to address.
I have thousands of emails (Not that I read any of them - who has time?!), voice messages, text messages, Twitters to catch up (I call them Tweets), Myspace friends, Blog postings, Skype calls, YouTube video updates, evites, meeting requests and whatever other form of communication we choose to use in this modern age of Social Media!

So, today let us get right down to business....

There are a number of new shows, which are apparently all debuting this week - Ha, welcome back! Here is what we have for your television viewing enjoyment (Pithy commentary included from Yours Truly):

• Countdown to the Crown (TLC) -- Season Underway --
  I like the idea of this show, and in fact had a similar idea about 2 years prior. However, I just cannot determine why I am largely not interested.
  
  
• Confessions of a Teen Idol (Vh1) -- Season Underway --
  I had seen the debut episode of this show. Really, I only recognized 2 out of the what 6 former Teen Idols? Eric Nies from the Grind (MTV) and Jamie Walters from 90210. My initial thought was positive - Vh1 has stepped up and debuted a show that is worthy of the time spent.
  
  
• Superstars of Dance (NBC) -- Season Underway--
  Well, I am a little 'Danced Out' at the moment. Let me know if you catch this show.
  
  
• The Bachelor 13 (ABC) January 5
  Oh, here we are setting ourselves up for failure again - will this be the season where the 'Love' is actually meaningful and lasting? Hopefuls unite!
  
  
• True Beauty (ABC) January 5
  Tyra, is that you again?
  
  
• The Biggest Loser 6 (NBC) January 6
  Have you seen Celebrity Fit Club? It would be a blast to merge the two shows together, "The Biggest Loser Celebrity Fit Club" - I am just full of ideas (-?).
  
  
• Homeland Security USA (ABC) January 6
  Yeah, sounds political. Let me guess, more inconvenience and missed flights over a tube of toothpaste at the airport?!
  
  
• 13: Fear is Real (The CW) January 7
  Fine, a Horror Reality Show...Fear Factor meets Saw meets Blair Witch Project - is that not what most so called "Horror" movies marketed to young adults consist of?
  
  
• The Real World Brooklyn (MTV) January 7
  I like RW, but all of the episodes are beginning to become predictable with the same predictable casting of the same predictable characters.
  
  
• The Exterminators (A&E) January 7
  Got Pests? Do they have to be bugs, snakes or rats?
  

Let The TV Show War Begin
Amazingly, you will notice there is more than one show debuting on the same night - nothing like a game of competition between the networks.

The winter season is truly one of the most important times for viewership and audience metrics, as this season largely determines the pace of the entire year. Get ready for Fox to join fray with the return of American Idol, later this month. Should be good fun.

Alright, I have said more than enough...Let me know which shows you decide to watch and we will discuss later. Happy viewing!

How Many Hosts Does It take To...

Ciao, Ciao!

Welcome to another week. Indeed much has happened since our last visit...Some good and some not so much.

However for this brief moment of entertainment, I will focus on what can be largely controlled positive here in the world of news and politics (aka Hollywood).

So, let's get right down to business.

And The Award Goes To...
Just as many, I am sure that you viewed the 60th Annual Emmy Awards last Sunday evening.

The big winners of the evening were 30 Rock (NBC) and Mad Men (AMC). Surprisingly, Mad Men made history with the win, being the first basic cable program to win for Outstanding Drama.

Really, I could not be more thrilled as for the most part, I do not spend time regularly watching Network shows. Most of my viewing (Largely accomplished by Tivo), transpires on cable. Most of my favorite shows are not Network based programs, but the boutique programs offered by way of cable.

Having said, I would have preferred to see an actual category for Outstanding Reality Series in which a cable Reality Show (Non-scripted, Non-Competitive) could be recognized and rewarded.

The deserved contenders of such an award would be powerful and insightful programs such as A&E's riveting Intervention, Discovery Channel's Deadliest Catch, or The History Channel's Ice Road Truckers.

Friends of the Academy, such a pertinent category is long overdue!

The Not So Opener
As mentioned in earlier post, the show slightly modified in format included not only one, but as well, four additional hosts....All Reality Show (For the most part) favorites such as Heidi Klum (You either in or you Auf Wiedersehen), Howie Mandel (Who came a long way from stand-up), Tom Bergeron (?), Ryan Seacrest (Cornerstone of E! programming), and Jeff Probst (Dimples).

What was expected and lauded as a historic moment, was soon bandied the worst in historic moments for the long running awards show.

Quite frankly, the thought of one, two, three, four, and even five hosts sounded like a good idea - If you can get such a great response from the usual one host, why not have several?

More important, why don't we dispel rumors of the notion that Reality Shows are largely unscripted by having them (The myriad of hosts) babble about on stage. No, we don't need rehearsal, just get up on stage and just say whatever comes to mind....Or, not....

Show Opener: MASSIVE FAILURE.

Flashback 2007...Speaking of tragic events, you may recall, the Writer's Strike late last year in which we lost Billions of dollars in production, ad revenue and sponsorships, time and countless jobs in a period of just 4.5 months.

During the tumult, what most discovered is that the hosts of said Reality Shows are actually reciting SCRIPTED dialog from an actual professional, creative writer. Yes, even your beloved David Letterman uses scripted jokes and dialog written by the hand of an experienced raconteur.

Reality Show Host + Live Television = Real Live Hosted Disaster
How was it ever expected that Reality Show hosts are actually useful in real situations?!

Further, how could said hosts ever have agreed to such a potentially disastrous laden circumstance? Was there some level of trickery involved or was the Academy attempting to prove a point.

Perhaps the intended message was something like, "You're not as Real as you think - you Reality Show people" (-?).

Alas, although Reality Shows are absolute fodder for many, the realism is that the top rated shows on television continue to be Reality Shows, season after season.

My irreverent position: This only the beginning and we will definitely see even more integration of Reality Shows into the television landscape as we move forward....

Get ready for another 10 years of American Idol, Survivor, Project Runway, Deal or No Deal, and America's Funniest home videos. Good Fun.

Guns, Cigars and Gold Chains...

Hi Friends!

Well, can you believe another great week has passed? It's AMAZING!

As I sit here on another beautiful Sunday afternoon in 'LaLa Land' watching my favorite movie The Matrix (Thank you A&E - You know I am happily watching).

I have full reflection of the major events (Related to television, not Brad and Angelina - although it is easy to keep gorgeous Brad on the brain!) this past week:

1. Tyra Banks said she wants to leave Top Model (Meanwhile the show is as lackluster as ever - alright, do not be upset with my comment- you must admit the seasons are all the same story lines).


2. The Celebrity Apprentice was won by fellow Brit Piers Morgan (Again, this show was a little more exciting, but does anyone really care? I say bring Omarosa back next season as a Judge/Panel member - Don, are you reading this?).


3. Jack Klugman (The original CSI on Quincy) is taking legal action against NBC for unpaid royalties (Always take a percentage of the gross - not the net),


4. And now this big announcement: The A-Team is now on the countdown to the big screen.
   

Alas, the subject of today's post: The A-Team movie.

Chases, Pursuits and More Chases...
I am a big fan of the legendary Stephen J. Cannell (Super writer/producer, creator of the A-Team and many, many other hit shows), and frequently receive emails from his team. Talk of an A-Team movie has been circulating for quite some time (10 + years).

According to synopsis of the early to mid 80's show:

"Heroic, daring and more than just a little colorful, The A-Team is a brave band of brothers who will stop at nothing to get the bad guys. This unforgettable series features Mr. T, one of television's most unique and popular superstars, in his most memorable role."

The funny thing is that I never really watched the show in the 80's - however just as many, I am fully aware of Mr. T! Quite frankly, I could not tell you the name of any other character on the show, or even Mr.T's character name - without proper research.

Admittedly, I did have a small, very small crush on Dirk Benedict from show Battlestar Galactica - I was an aspiring technology/show business cool girl geek even back in my young childhood. The A-Team was never of interest as I preferred Charlie's Angels and sometimes CHips (Poncherello was way cuter than Mr. T's group of associates).

Pity The Fool Who Will Play Mr.T?
According to published reports, gritty director John Singleton (Boyz in the Hood, Four Brothers) is at the helm of this 80's flipped big screen classic.

Singleton has been reportedly "Hounded" by members of the press of who will play what role, however, many are largely concerned with who will play the role of Mr.T's character in the adaptation? One name has been mentioned, but Singleton has denied final casting decision.

Really, can anyone play Mr. T - I doubt whomever is cast in the role will be able to live up to such a big, over-the-top personality of one who could scare most grown adults, yet simultaneously manage to befriend small children; That is a lot of pressure.

The 80's TV On Demand
Undoubtedly, there is great anticipation of this movie which brings one to recount the recent big TV to big screen adventures: Charlie's Angels, Mod Squad, Wild Wild West, American Dreamz (Based on the show American Idol), Transformers (Loved it!), Miami Vice (A complete un-inspiring disaster), Sex and the City (TBD), and a whole host of Saturday Night Live skits that somehow made it to multi-million dollar production with limited audience appeal and/or next to no chance for investor recoupment.

You know what happened to these movies, right? Critics had an absolute field day tearing them apart frame by frame, word by word, transition to transition. Critics analyzed, chastised and over dramatized, fans complained, and all was wrong with TV to big screen remakes.

Be careful of that you wish...Yes, My point is if you are going to clamour for remakes of a small screen show to big screen fare - do not return crying when you have spent your $40 (Or more) at the theater - You wished for it, you got it! Proceed with caution.

The show, I mean movie, is set for summer release in 2009.

*The photo above is provided compliments of the NBC/Universal classic archive."

What A Week?

Hey!

So, there were some exciting events that transpired last week and I have received a number of emails from you on a few of the most popular subjects.

In today's blog, let's talk about a few of the more obvious and newsworthy topics (Although I usually prefer to remain within my realm of TV related fare, I have added a few additional items for the adventure).

Let the discussion begin:

1. I Am Legend - Did you see it? Apparently, many of you had seen the Will Smith starrer over this past weekend as box office estimates are just north of $75 Million, since the movie opened on Friday.

As you know, I love to clear to my schedule to watch anything that looks cool - however being this close to the holidays, I was not able to spare the time to visit the theater to see it with you...It's on the list.

Will Smith also received a "Star" on the Hollywood walk of fame this past week and has been all over town promoting his new movie - so you see, despite the recent excuses for box office flops - you do not need to have a plug on a late night talk show to have a successful movie!

2. Most Influential Infant - Forbes magazine presented it's list of "Most Influential Infants" and it is causing quite a mention of idle mockery (Not of the infants, but of the adults).

First just to mention, Forbes magazine is one of my premiere publications that I actually read cover to cover and I visit the site quite frequently - I know Forbes, which is the reason I am perplexed by the latest "Study".

Having said, it is reasonable to conclude the question of why such a list (Most Influential Infants) even exists and have the editors simply run out of financial topics that they must as well attempt to get into the tabloid wrangling fare?

Having brought up the subject, I should mention the editors at Forbes have named Shiloh Jolie-Pitt as THE most influential...Who knew?

Quite frankly with such an esteemed title, I am expecting baby Shiloh to begin giving riveting speeches at the United Nations, call for world peace (Where ALL of the leaders actually cooperate), solve world hunger, stop global warming, come up with an alternate health care plan that works, and handle social security - AT ANY MOMENT...Now, that's influence!

Ah not to be misunderstood, I love infants in their natural environments (Not leading World Economic Peace Summits) but I do not want to pressure them out to be influential before they can even walk...That's simply ridiculous expectation.

3. Paranormal State - Although I do not customarily re-visit subjects in which I have already written (Last weekend's post), this one is to your compliment. Thanks to you, A&E's new show Paranormal State had FANTASTIC numbers and record high ratings in the show's debut, last Monday night...Great job!

4. America's Next Top Model - Congratulations to the end of another great season and wishes to the winner Saleisha Stowers as the new Cycle 9 winner.

Now, there appears to be controversy over the new winner. Apparently, Ms. Stowers has modeling experience, which according to the rules of the ANTM competition, is cause for ineligibility. Further, many are claiming a pre-existing relationship with Tyra Banks was also a reason of concern.

Relatively speaking, I am happy the season is over...Regardless of who wins and the reason why. Time to move on to Cycle 10 ladies and gentlemen.

5. KITT - Earlier this week, NBC announced the new star of the updated version of Knight Rider; A Ford Mustang.

Not to be one that says, "I told you so" but....As mentioned in a previous post it was a highly likely choice.

Personally, I was hoping they (NBC) would have taken up my suggestion of having KITT return as a high-end Mercedes Benz (See my vision on the lower left) - it's time to add a little class, style and sophistication to his image (Ah, but that's just me).

Next the big question who will be the voice of KITT? Will it be male or female?

I have already presented my list of whom should NOT be cast as the voice of this high-tech computer car including Jerry "What-is-the-deal?" Seinfeld, Fran Drescher, Gilbert Gottfried, Donald Trump, Rosie O'Donnell, Chris Rock, Hulk "Brother!" Hogan, Eartha Kitt, or any foreign Supermodel (To name just a few - the list is far too long and would take up the majority of this post).

For no apparent reason, I still think Kelsey Grammer would make an interesting choice of the voice of KITT (Not sure as a Ford Mustang though how that would work out, I picture him far more upscale, rather than American muscle). Ah so many choices, from which not to choose...

Happy Holidays!

*All photo images are the respective property of their owners (Studios, Networks, and Publications).

Feeling Paranormal?

Next week one of our beloved networks, A&E will be premiering back-to-back episodes of a new dramatic Real life series titled, Paranormal State and since A&E is airing my favorite movie (The Matrix) this weekend, I am beaming with warm and fuzzy appreciation...

Paranormal State (Produced by Go Go Luckey) is about the case files of the Paranormal Research Society (PRS), a renowned group comprised of Penn State University college students, who travel the area investigating reports of paranoia - I mean, paranormal activity.

Not Normal, but PARAnormal
Prior to having seen the great promos for the new show (Provided through the A&E Club), I was thinking just what exactly does Paranormal mean?

As a blissful diversion from more pressing matters, I thought it would be fun to conduct some brief research into said subject and by brief research I mean reference the dictionary.

According to one of my favorite sites dictionary.com, the word paranormal means: "Of or pertaining to the claimed occurrence of an event or perception without scientific explanation, as psychokinesis, extrasensory perception, or other purportedly supernatural phenomena."

Do You Believe?
According to a recent study, over 70 percent of adults believe in 'supernatural phenomena'. Which may suggests that most have experienced (Directly or indirectly) unexplained events and occurrences.

With such a subject matter, I am certain there will be an endless supply of recount provided by many unique stories from average, everyday people and families, worthy of investigation by the young students of Penn State University.

A Friendly Non-Related Tangent...
Frankly now that I think about it, my entire university tenure was a 'Paranormal' experience to say the least...

Between my battles with my Marketing, Accounting, and Communications professors (I was running a successful business in the real world and felt their tutelage was completely worthless) - Note, most Business school professors (Purveyors of theory) do not have any clue how to run an actual business.

Amazingly, I received a letter of recommendation from the Dean of the Business school and subsequently made the Dean's list for academic performance.

Right, now what career allows one to argue all day for a living? Oh yeah, a LAWYER! So it appears that I may have just escaped a professional career...You see, all of that incessant arguing paid off and here we are today (-?).

Back to The Paranormal
When I had heard about the show sometime last year, I thought well what events would be featured during this type of show that will keep viewers intrigued - here is where it gets good:

The new 30-minute show features the PRS organization (started in 2001), director/ founder Ryan Buell and his college-age team of paranormal investigators. Throughout the show, the PRS team handily spend their time investigating the strange and bizarre while trying to find balance within their young adult lives as they attend classes at Penn State University - brilliant!

There's more...Each week Ryan and the PRS team investigate the unusual and terrifying mysteries when they are contacted for help by everyone from The Catholic Church to ordinary families to investigate poltergeists, hauntings and the darkest areas of the unknown.

Final Thoughts
While we are on the subject, really there are several mysteries in which I would like to have answers.

Honestly, why does the Loch Ness Monster only have that one fuzzy out of focus photo, why have we not visited the moon since the 1960's (Although people are selling real estate there), and why did someone say that there was a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow? - Well, I have actually been to the end...nothing there...I WANT ANSWERS!

Alright, not quite the stories featured during the show, but it should be good fun...

Paranormal State airs Monday, December 10th and you can read more about the show on the A&E website: http://www.aetv.com/paranormal-state/



*The A&E logo featured above is property of A&E Networks.

A Bumpy Week In Review

Well, we have experienced another unbelievable week in the world of 'Entertainment'.

In today's post, I have decided to write random comments about random events, rather than just one dedicated subject. Believe me, I would love to write extensively in what I hope are witty escapes of each topic, however there is simply more than enough 'stuff' happening to dedicate full thought to just one subject.

Second, I am currently barraged with emails and phone calls from various outlets for quotes/comments about a few specific events of this week.

So, here are my 'half-thoughts' on the most discussed happenings (Related to television, not in the world of entertainment). Okay, I will state the known facts of each case and then relate comment, as follows:

Item #1 "The Strike"

Who: The Writers Strike.

What: Monday writers in Hollywood will be on strike (As of this writing).

Where: Hollywood.

Why: Writers contend they are not receiving fair compensation of ancillary and digital profits (Currently making 4 Cents, asking for increase).

How: Negotiations between the union (Representing the writers) and the studios/networks have come to a stand still.

(My) Comments: They say it has been 20 years since the last Writer's Strike (1988) and it cost the industry an estimated $500 million in losses and thousands were out of work for months. Should there be a strike within the next few hours, the financial impact could be close to $1 Billion this time around - it's a lose-lose situation for everyone.

While on the surface, most will not immediate see the initial impact as many writers and union employees may be on strike, the creative and financial long-term consequences could be undoubtedly devastating.

From a creative position, studios/networks will exhaust their current inventory of scripts, stories and shows. However if the strike continues or is prolonged, it could mean that you may see repeated broadcasts (re-runs) of your favorite shows, indefinitely until the conclusion of the strike.

On the production side of this equation, as I write this Blog multi-million dollar features are in development/production, we are 3/4 of the way through the fall TV schedule, and the holidays are around the corner - it's just not a good time.

The above may seem like a dramatic statement, however there is just too much money at stake and we all stand to lose and yes reality shows are also vulnerable as well, not just your scripted favorites. In conclusion, all are hopeful that a resolution can be made within the last few hours, otherwise we all hope the strike ends as quickly as it began.

Item #2 "Dog Dirty Mouth"

Who: Duane "Dog" Chapman, star of A&E's Dog The Bounty Hunter.

What: Controversial phone conversation.

Where: Hawaii.

Why: In question.

How: Chapman's phone conversation (Laced with racial epithets) was released to the press (National Enquirer).

(My)Comments: Quite frankly, I stand behind A&E network and their pro-active decision to "Shelve" the show for a while not just because of reported advertiser withdrawal, but as well to avoid inevitable public consequences and negative publicity.

Personally, I have never seen the show. However, I find the personal choice of a public figure rather disappointing, regardless of whether or not it is public or private conversation. Further, I could say more, however I think most of you have already expressed your disgust (One reader commented that Dog needs to have his mouth washed out with soap! - my thoughts exactly...) and I need not further spend my time on discussing the senseless matter.


Item #3 "Brouhaha on NBC's Phenomenon"

Who: Criss Angel and contestant.
What: On air scuttle.

Where: NBC.

Why: Host disagreed with contestant's alleged ability.

(My) Comments: The event was unfortunate, however the title of the show is called "Phenomenon", meaning something is impressive or extraordinary (According to the dictionary). It does not necessarily mean REAL.

If you have not seen the show, NBC describes the show as the search for the next great mentalist where illusions and intrigue can lead to a top prize of $250,000.

Each week, the contestants demonstrate their mystifying talents on a panel of celebrity guests who experience the spellbinding illusions live, along with the studio audience. In each competition, the experts (Criss Angel (Mindfreak) and Uri Geller) will assess and then offer their unfiltered opinions as 10 carefully selected contestants compete...

So you see, all of this is a great "Much a do about nothing". In favor, Criss (Who is one of my friends through MySpace) is a master illusionist and quite convincing, it is going to be difficult to fake him out on the show and the contestants should be aware of this fact. For this reason, Producers have hired Criss to purposefully provide an honest professional assessment of each contestant's abilities.

My final thought after last week's turmoil: "Let's all just kiss and make up."

(The A&E Logo is the respective property of it's owner. The photo Phenomenon starring Criss Angel and Uri Geller is compliments of NBC).

Meet Your New Bachelor

Earlier this summer, ABC announced the latest unlucky-in-love choice Brad Womack to play the lead in this fall's 11th season of The Bachelor and with just a few days left until his special debut, it is time to get to know our man.

Hot, hot, hottie
According to ABC: The new "BACHELOR" is a sincere, sexy, successful, self-made man who may be the series' hottest guy yet."

Let's see...sincere, sexy, successful, self-made and HOT? ABC has handily summarized my kind of man in just a single sentence. Why Is it Christmas already? Finally, someone understands my superficial interests!

I would have to add one more item to our shopping list ABC - INTELLIGENT - although this may not seem all that important at first, believe me in a number of ways it plays a role in sustaining a relationship.

Enter The New Brad
The network is touting the Atlanta-born, Texas-raised Womack as a self-made entrepreneur, marking a drastic change from the pedigreed guys of years past.

The 34 year old ambitious Brad comes to us from Austin, Texas where he co-owns a chain of bars along with his two other brothers (one of which is his twin, Chad).

Further, ABC would like us to believe that for all of Brad's hard earned accomplishments, there is one thing missing from Brad's life he's ready to find his soul mate, settle down and have the family life he has so long desired. Oh, that clever marketing department....

Looking for Reality Love
The amazing thing about looking for love on a reality show is that it never seems to last. Why is that?

As you may be aware, I have a fascination with dating shows. The interest is more related to the psychology and composition of the orchestrated events.

I often wonder exactly what do people (The lovelorn) expect to find? Do they really think they will be successful on a television dating show, rather than finding true love in real life? Is it even possible?

Well, let's look into the construct of a reality dating show:

• One suitor (9 out of the past 10 seasons of the show of topic, have been male);
  
• Something like 20 other women competing for the same suitor (After the initial elimination the number is somewhere equal to the number of weeks of the episodes);
• There are always several dates that occur (Everyone has to kiss the same mouth);
• Everything is always a competition (Even eating dinner becomes a dramatic event);
• Confessional is MANDATORY (Because we care about what everyone is thinking);
• There is always an elimination 'ceremony' (People just can't walk off the show);
• The families always have to get involved (a.k.a The Hatrocks);
• Oh, and everyone lives together in a mansion (For 13 weeks).
  

True Love vs. Entertainment Value
Out of all of the reality dating shows such as The Bachelor, Beauty & The Geek, Joe Millionaire, Age of Love, For Love or Money, tons of others and even Flavor of Love - NONE of the before mentioned have successfully managed to pair a lasting couple.

The only exception to the above was the one and only season of The Bachorlette (Trista & Ryan).

Which raises another question, are women better than men at finding true love on said dating competition shows? And with such an unsuccessful track record for bachelors, why have there been more seasons featuring a bachelor? The model may be flawed...

Neilsen ratings for The Bachelor have indicated a steady decline over the years - perhaps this is an indication that the public really does have an interest in successful, lasting love stories.

It's Time for Professional Expertise
I would like to see an actual matchmaker on of these shows - Let's get serious and really try to bring together the next reality show super couple, rather than another public spectacle.

While on the subject - A&E (Yeah, I am quite fond of them as well) has a great show called, Confessions of a Matchmaker - East coast pro-matchmaker Patti Novak dishes tough love and advice to hopeful daters.

I say, maybe it is time for some tough love counseling on a few other shows as well! I have an idea to bring these two shows together (Think of it as Confessions of a Matchmaker for the Bachelor)...

As for our new Bachelor, Brad will begin passing out his roses to 25 contestants - I mean women, in a 90-minute season premiere on Monday evening (9/24) on ABC.