The Ted Williams Story

Unless you have been busy living under rock this past week, or never returned to modern civilization from the New Year holiday, you have more than likely heard or seen the story of now newly famous, Ted Williams.

Ted Williams (More commonly known as 'Golden Voice') recently careened into the national spotlight, after being discovered while pan-handling near a Columbus, Ohio freeway by a videographer from the local newspaper (Who somewhat inadvertently broke the story).

According to reports, the videographer had been driving to work and noticed then homeless, Williams standing road side holding a sign, "I have a GOD given gift of voice, I'm an ex-radio announcer who has fallen on hard times. Please any help will be gratefully appreciated..."

Real Life Rags to Riches?
One could not help but feel inspired from such a fantastic story (As my good friend always laments, "Real Life Really Is Stranger Than Fiction"). Producers everywhere are clamoring for an interview, and more than likely someone has already purchased the rights to his story for a full-length feature film (Similar to The Pursuit of 'Happyness').

Moreover, Ted has received numerous offers from various corporate interests and media. Let's take inventory of the known/confirmed employment offers (Aside from the numerous monetary gestures of a generous few):

• An offer of a full-time announcing job with Cleveland Cavaliers
• Voice Over gig with Kraft Macaroni & Cheese
• A gig with cable channel MSNBC's Lean Forward campaign (Thank you, TV Squad!)
• New house (Mortgage paid by a loan company)
• Numerous Websites dedicated to Williams
• Numerous television appearances (CBS, NBC)

All of the recent media attention has brought into question a number of considerations of concern.

First, are said companies merely jumping on the 'Ted Williams Story' bandwagon simply for good PR, and would said companies even give the light of day to an average person (Meaning, those without a platform) who may have had similar run-ins with the law? Not certain there would have been the same gesture for the person on the street that is in desperate attempt to turn his/her life around.

Many Other 'Ted Williams Stories' Are Out There...
Personally, I have been involved with a number of causes and have been actively involved with my own brand of vigilant efforts to impact homelessness. Hearing this story was immediate reason to bring the issue of homeless back into the national spotlight and I would strongly recommend that Ted take up the cause (Once settled). As a former member of the community, he would have far greater impact than someone in the media (Yours Truly).

What's Your Talent?
More important, it returns the question of just how many other similar stories are out there? Every person homeless or not, certainly has a skill/talent or as Ted writes, "A GOD given gift of_______", it's just a matter of finding the right vehicle to exploit a possible opportunity, or in this case, a second chance.

I live in a town filled to the virtual brim with talent (And, often not) and each and every day, droves of the inspired aspire to being discovered for something that will translate into their, "Big Break".

The strange and unusual thing is that ANYONE can become famous - someone just needs to tell these people...

Best Wishes, Ted and we will see you at the top!

The Coco Speaks

After Months of Waiting, former The Tonight Show host Conan O'Brien Opens Up About The NBC Debacle.

In a recent interview, O'Brien told 60 Minutes that he decided to leave NBC because the "relationship" was clearly "toxic."

First, break-ups are always uncomfortable and as one reader stated, "Coco now has the opportunity to move away from the D-Bags". Well said. However, remember that everything is a business proposition and according to NBC (Jeff Zucker), The Tonight Show was allegedly losing money (Although presumably, Jay Leno at 9 PM was THE biggest money loser).

The business decision was made somewhere along the lofty ranks of NBC to reduce The Tonight Show by 30 minutes and return Leno back to the original time slot. Sounded like a great plan to CYA. Only one slight inconvenience - Mr. O'Brien did not go along with said plan. As luck would have it, Leno was aptly available to back stab replace or as he termed in a recent interview, "...Both got screwed".

Right, who would guess these days, "...Got screwed" means once again getting your own show after miserably failing from another in a curious programming experiment that created such a contentious environment that forced someone else out of their job/livelihood? Ah, life is good.

On a lighter note, O'Brien is on a nationwide comedy tour, "Legally Prohibited From Being Funny On Television", which kicked off earlier this month as TBS announced that it had signed the comic for a late-night program set to bow in November. (Photo/Reuters)

That's Not Funny...

A couple weeks ago Craig Ferguson taped an entire episode of The Late Show (Charlie Rose) without an actual audience.

According to friends, there are 100 seats - 10 are reserved for house guests and 30 - 40 are available through requests for tickets. The remaining seats (50-60), are each paid for by the show (At $20 per hour, per person - more later). So, why not save $1,000 bucks an hour and just get rid of the audience, right? Brilliant!

Well, without giving away ALL of the secrets, but maybe some: When I had first moved to L.A., I had seen numerous ads for "Paid Audience" jobs; News Flash: There are entire agencies dedicated to just filling seats for every conceivable show that tapes live in front of a Studio audience.

The requirements were simple (ID and just show up for 8-10 hours at the designated studio *conveniently* located in Burbank). The job simple enough, sit and watch the show as part of a studio audience - for $8 per hour ($20 studio pay per hour, $12 to agency and $8 to you!) - that sounded like a fun temp job. Only issue, I began working - so, the idea was immediately nixed. I do have friends that went through the experience (More on that later, too).

Anyway, in the spirit of saving show budget, maybe I would recommend investing in a high-quality laugh track, a licensed copy of Final Cut Pro, and the latest version of Adobe After Effects...Ah, maybe even a low tech approach using mannequins wearing wigs for the over the shoulder shots and the quick sweeping pans of the 'Fake' audience - Alright, I'm done...

Super Super Bowl

Unless you were living under a rock (I call this being busy), you were either aware of or watching the Super Bowl 44 on Sunday. The Saints beat the Colts in a surprise and stunning victory. Even more impressive is the fact that it was the most watched program in US television history (Or, so we are told).

Not your average misogyny, the game had just under 107 million viewers according to Nielsen - first time that a televised sporting event captured a hundred million viewers, otherwise stunning news for advertisers. (Photo/Reuters)

Dave Beign Bad!

Issue: David Letterman
Recently reported that David Letterman was involved in an alleged extortion scheme by a CBS Producer for sexual conduct with employees. Letterman has admitted to such affairs with staff members (Nonetheless, while involved with long-time Common Law Wife and former staff writer Regina).

My Comment (s): Tisk, tisk - this is a situation, proceed with caution...First, I can certainly understand how this situation could transpire within the workplace. There are a number of concerns with this headline melodrama that need to unfold in greater detail.

It is highly likely that we have not heard the entire story of the Letterman debacle. Letterman has a unique advantage, by way of a convenient regular television audience, to express select details of the dilemma (Leaving question of possible manipulation) without much refute or rebuttal. If there is an actual trial - the real and true story will unfold.

One plausible conclusion on the surface would be one of dismissal, if a person chooses to disregard their marital (By way of Common Law Marriage) obligations to their significant other, that is their private concern/business/dirty laundry. Fine. Whatever.

Where this wicket becomes sticky is a possible underlying legal issue - which is now the greater concern of the matter.

Alarming is the social implications that women in general continue to support Letterman over which could very likely be a situation of blatant sexism, favoritism and harassment. As a person within similar capacity (People working in your company), I would choose not to be involved with a subordinate, nor otherwise, within the same organization. Now, outside of the organization would be an entirely different story, of course...

Strangely, the females within the Letterman situation do not appear to be stepping forward to publicly speak of the matter, nor refute what appears to be a "Hostile" working environment (-?).

Which leads one to believe that perhaps the matter or claims made by Letterman are actually a gross exaggeration of the real truth - it is highly likely that events and the circumstance did not transpire as we have been led to believe. Returning to the point, Letterman admitted to having relations with "Members of his staff" - we presume this to mean "Women".

Really, the statement could have meant ONE, plus the woman who is now Letterman's wife (A former member of his staff) - for a total 2 women on his staff at Worldwide Pants, Inc., who were involved with the old man (Oops). In context, hardly the same story and less than the gross conjecture perceived that there were a number of women, as a result of Letterman's public statements on his program.

As reasoned above within my seemingly resounding logic on this subject, hardly a public scandal and this would be the only sensible explanation as to why there has not been complete upheaval and revolt by female staff at Worldwide Pants, Inc.

Think about it, what a fantastic Publicity stunt all this would create for Letterman - the matter has certainly caused substantial fodder and as said, "ANY publicity is good publicity".

Ridiculous.

TV Casualties Of Summer 2009

Speaking of pressing matters, the Networks 'Nets' have been busy canceling shows over the past few months of summer. In fact, this entire action of mass cancellation had occurred while most of you were basking poolside (Well, at least the ones in which I am aware).

Assuredly, I have been watching and keeping track of every detail and after all my line of work is largely: Buying, Creating, and Selling TV - ah, that's my newly condensed occupational mission statement; I am sure you appreciate.

We have taken the liberty to compile a list (We have detailed stats, but I will refrain from sending you into oblivion with such over speak...This time).

Here is what we have so far:

ABC

• Cupid: Aired for a season: Canceled in June.
• Dirty Sexy Money: Aired for a couple of seasons: Canceled in August.
• Eli Stone: Aired 2 seasons: Canceled in July.
• In the Motherhood: Aired 1 season: Canceled in July.
• Pushing Daisies: Aired 2 seasons: Canceled in June.
• Samantha Who?: Aired 2 seasons: Canceled in July.
• Surviving Suburbia: Aired 1 season: Canceled in August.
• The Unusuals: Aired 1 season: Canceled in June.
  

CBS

• Eleventh Hour: Aired 1 season: Canceled in April.
• Harper's Island: 1 season: Bye Bye in July.
• The Unit: 4 seasons: Canceled in May.
• Without a Trace: 7 seasons: Canceled May.
• Worst Week: Aired 1 season: Canceled June.
  

FOX

• King of the Hill: Aired 13 seasons: Canceled in September.
• Prison Break: Aired 4seasons: Canceled in May.
• Sit Down, Shut Up: 1 season: Canceled in November.
• Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles: Aired 2 seasons, but canceled in April.
  

NBC

• Crusoe: 1 season: Canceled in April.
• Kath & Kim: 1 season: Canceled March.
• Kings: Aired 1 season: Canceled July.
• Knight Rider: 1 season: Canceled March.
• Life: Aired 2 seasons: Canceled in April.
• Lipstick Jungle: Aired 2 seasons: Canceled in January
• Medium: Aired 1 season (Went to CBS): Canceled in June.
• My Name is Earl: Aired 4 seasons: Canceled in May.
  

The CW

• Everybody Hates Chris: Total of 4 seasons: Canceled in May.
• The Game: 3 seasons: Canceled in May.
• Privileged: 1 season: Canceled in February.
• Reaper: 2 seasons: Canceled in May.
• The Beautiful Life (TBL): Barely 1 season: Canceled in same month.
  
  

FX Network

• The Riches: Aired 3 seasons: Canceled in June.

USA Network

• The Starter Wife: Aired for 2 seasons: Series Canceled in June.

Now then, some of you may have ideas of either A). Sending your concerns directly to the Network responsible for demise of your favorite (Remember, Jericho) and/or B). Take the liberty of expressing your grief of the canceled with Yours Truly.

One of the before mentioned is a completely futile attempt and I will leave to you to determine which method. Alright truth be told, they are both indeed futile, but why spoil all of your fun...

Talk soon.

Your Daytime Emmy Award Winners...

Anyway, I bring more good news: The recipients of the 2009 Daytime Emmy Awards were announced last Sunday evening at the Orpheum here in Los Angeles.

Aside from a major upset, compliments of The View finally getting rid of Ellen from the top spot by taking the award in the Best Talk Show Host category; a title of which has been occupied by daytime cackler Ellen DeGeneres, the show was a complete sudsy success.

The other major beneficiary of the evening was Soap show, The Bold and the Beautiful garnering the award for Outstanding Drama Series (It's first win in the entire 22 years the show has been on the air).

Here is a quick rundown of your 2009 Daytime Emmy Award winners:

• BEST DRAMA SERIES -- The Bold and the Beautiful
• BEST ACTOR, DRAMA SERIES -- Christian LaBlanc, The Young and the Restless
• BEST ACTRESS, DRAMA SERIES -- Susan Haskell, One Life to Live
• BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR, DRAMA SERIES -- Jeff Branson, Guiding Light
• BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS, DRAMA SERIES -- Tamara Braun, Days of Our Lives
• BEST YOUNG ACTOR, DRAMA SERIES -- Darin Brooks, Days of Our Lives
• BEST YOUNG ACTRESS, DRAMA SERIES -- Julie Berman, General Hospital
• BEST MORNING SHOW -- Good Morning America
• BEST TALK SHOW (ENTERTAINMENT) -- Rachael Ray
• BEST TALK SHOW (INFORMATIVE) -- The Tyra Banks Show
• BEST TALK SHOW HOST -- Joy Behar, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Whoopi Goldberg, Barbara Walters, The View
• BEST GAME SHOW -- Cash Cab
• BEST LEGAL PROGRAM -- Cristina's Court
• LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD -- Sesame Street
  

Quite frankly, I might only agree with a few on the list (Cash Cab, Sesame Street). Having said, I am not exactly the target audience for Daytime fair -

Really, I attempt to watch television in my office during the daytime, but evidently it is largely an unsuccessful endeavor due to phone calls from clients, the media, managers, agents, lawyers and miscellaneous execs, assistants, oh, and random PEOPLE walking into my office trying to speak of matters of which they know not (Ah, there I go again saying too much)...

Nothing but Soap.
Speaking of lathered success, perhaps maybe CBS (Proctor & Gamble) will bring back The Guiding Light which had been scheduled for cancellation this September, the show has been on the Network since 1952. Amazing.

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.

The 51st Grammy Awards: GOOD FUN!

Salut!

Here we are at the start of yet another GREAT week. This week has already began with a good start, if you count Sunday evening's Grammy Awards ceremony.

Did you watch the show? How FUN WAS THAT?!

Alright, I had not anticipated spending the time to watch the entertainment, I prefer to Time Shift (Ha, Love the way that sounds) ala TIVO. See, I really do have control of ALL decisions (No matter how small), I am the 'Decider' - at least when it comes to watching TV.

Now, if I could only figure out how to do this in real life as well, but I digress...sigh.

Really, the show was thrilling (I rarely EVER use these terms) and quite frankly the best Awards program that I have seen for some time. Moreover, the program was well worth the time spent - Ken Ehrlich, David Wild (Executive Producers) PHENOMENAL WORK!

Performance Plus: Hip & Irreverent
I tuned in just to view little Katherine Hudson (I mean Katie Perry) take the stage to perform her kissing mega-hit.

Followed by Kanye West and Estelle performing American Boy - I ABSOLUTELY LOVE this song, it's such a cool tune and it makes me dream of being a vibrant, young(er)sophisticate living in London (Incidentally, I have never lived in London - but, would have had this song been around back then - I just needed a reason to instantly relocate to London).

A True Concert...Aside from the above mentioned, we also had performances by Jennifer Hudson (Outstanding), Radio Head, TI and Justin Timberlake and Al Green, Adele, Taylor & Miley, Paul McCartney, Neil Diamond, Lil'Wayne and Robin Thicke (I like him) just name a few.

Of particular highlight outside of the performances, were the presenters: Sam Jackson (My favorite actor!), Gwyneth Paltrow, Jack Black & Father-In-Law, Queen Latifah, and Gary Sinise.

Anyway, the show did not fail by any measure - the performances were stellar, the roster of presenters was top notch, and the pace was great for those of us with an attention span no greater than 5 minutes max. The show provided equal diversity in all of its parts.

Now Then...

I have a few concerns. As you know, I watch Vh1 in the morning for Music Videos. Really, Music Videos have always been the vehicle throughout my entire life that has allowed me to stay current on new music - what used to be MTV is now Vh1.

The point of where I am sauntering is the fact that by the time the show airs in February,the song for which the award is being given - is already more than year old and excruciatingly tired. The performers win awards for songs that have already expired during the previous year!

If you listen to the radio as a kid, I am sure that your favorite tune was in what we call in Radio, "Heavy Rotation".

Meaning, you would hear the popular songs at least once every hour or even 2 an hour. A little trick, DJs (I mean Air Talent) would ask for request, however the requests would only get played if it was the popular song already scheduled to be played.

It would be great to view show during the current year of the song - that is when I am most likely to purchase the song - not after I have already seen the video 500 or 600 times, or heard the song played on the radio 6,000 times (Yes, I am embellishing the actual numbers,but I am sure the tally nationwide is the similar).

Lifetime of Grammy Awards-?
Strangely, I have watched the Grammy Awards each year - however, I cannot recall the shows,the performers, or any of the presenters.

The only show in which I have full and complete recollection was the Grammy Awards show of 1985 when Michael Jackson sang Billy Jean and Moon walked across the stage - It was the most electrifying musical performance I had ever seen...EVERYONE was talking about it at school the next day - It was truly special and AMAZING!

To Attend or Not To Attend
As you also may be aware, it's definitely 'Awards Season'. My friend (Publicist) always calls me out of the blue to inform me that she cannot speak because it's Awards Season - as if I may have fallen off the planet (Although, I do occasionally like to disappear and mysteriously re-appear).

Frankly, I am equally amazed that people actually schedule their entire year around the Awards Season, usually starting with the SAG Awards, followed by the Grammy Awards, and the Academy Awards. Even more, there are always a number of opportunities to attend said events. An former boyfriend (Well, meaning not current) is in the music business and sends a thoughtful invitation each year to Attend the Grammy Awards (So, sweet...).

Although I have very close ties and have gained a number of friends/Artists in the Music industry within recent years- I always lament, that if I had not been interested in being in Television (Check), a Media Mogul(Check), an Internet/Technology Entrepreneur (Check), a Professional Tennis or Volleyball Player, a Pro Female Golfer (10 years prior), or Real Estate Tax Accountant or CPA (The hope and dream for my career once held by my Parents) - Ah, a career in the Music business would definitely have been 10th on my list...

Maybe I will actually show up next year.

Your Winter 2008 - 2009 TV Schedule

Hi Friends!

Well, first thank you for your responses to my last Blog concerning last week's big debut of The Secret Millionaire (Which really could be you some day), happy to have provided you with some inspiration and glimmer of the possibilities, 'For every cloud, there is silver lining', Babe.

I bring more good news...During our last visit I made mention of my review of the new schedule - looks pretty good thus far, and we have a plethora of new and returning entertainment for your viewing pleasure.

It has been said on previous occasion, Networks love it when I talk about their shows and I love to talk about them...Apparently, I have been lavished as "Voice of Influence" -Ah, well I am certainly no Oprah (Yet, that is...), but I certainly appreciate the intention of the sentiment.

So having said, today's topic is dedicated to your refrigerator list for the remainder of 2008 through the first of 2009.

Ready? Let's begin:

• Intervention (A&E) December 15
• Momma’s Boys (NBC) December 16
• Bromance (MTV) December 29
• The City (MTV) December 29
  
  The 2009 Rundown
  
• Countdown to the Crown (TLC) January 2
  
• Superstar Dancers of the World (NBC) January 4
• The Bachelor 13 (ABC) January 5
• True Beauty (ABC) January 5
• The Biggest Loser 6 (NBC) January 6
• Homeland Security USA (ABC) January 6
  
• 13: Fear is Real (The CW) January 7
• The Real World Brooklyn (MTV) January 7
  
• The Exterminators (A&E) January 7
• American Idol 8 (Fox) January 13
• Hell’s Kitchen 5 (Fox) January 29
• Jockeys (Animal Planet) February 6
• Wingman (Fine Living) February 10
• Survivor 18 (CBS) February 12
• The Amazing Race 14 (CBS) February 15
• High School Reunion 5 (TV Land) February 18
• Celebrity Apprentice 2 (NBC) March 1
  
• Dancing with the Stars 8 (ABC) March 9
  

On the Slate, but not scheduled:

• Project Runway (Lifetime) January 2009
• Gone Country 3 (CMT) January 2009
• Running in Heels (Style) March 2009
• Confessions of a Teen Idol (Vh1)
• The Cougar (TV Land)
• Creature (Animal Planet)
• Dance Your Ass Off (Oxygen)
  
• Ghost Hunters (Sci Fi)
• How’d You Get So Rich? (TV Land)
  
• Jingles (CBS)
• Untitled Larry Birkhead series (E!)
• Make Me a Supermodel 2 (Bravo)
  
• Make My Day (TV Land)
• The Phone (MTV)
  

Of course, the list continues with a number of additional items that have not yet been scheduled, such as Shark Taggers (NBC), Toddlers and Tiaras (TLC) and the uncertain, but long awaited When Women Rule The World (Fox).

However for our time today, I think we have more than enough to keep us watching (At least for the next 3 or 4 months) and you can be assured that we will have much conversation over the next few weeks - we will never be remiss in not having anything to discuss. Talk soon!

The 2008 Presidential Election: TV Politics

My Fellow Citizens!

Well, we are on the verge of another week and on the eve of one of the most important events in U.S. history, the Presidential Election.

Tuesday Night Television
Tomorrow evening, you can expect live, uninterrupted election coverage across network television (ABC, CBS, NBC) throughout the day and well into the Prime Time schedule Tuesday evening. As well, you can expect coverage on Cable News Network (CNN), Fox News, CNBC, MSNBC, and TV One.

It is expected that tomorrow night will have a record TV viewing audience and ratings; highest of the season for the networks and the highest within the last two decades of political coverage.

Record Ratings for History?
I am not a ratings speculator (My, that would be a useful skill), however all of this anticipation sounds more like ratings GOLD for the networks and you can be sure there will also be prime advertisers.

This is an optimal condition, broadcasters supply the ratings, via you the viewing audience, and advertisers supply the dollars to be seen during the program - it is guaranteed audience reach.

More importantly, this election is largely historic on a number of levels as we will have either the first Black American President or the first female Vice President in office (Although, I did wish that Hillary was the V.P. equivalent on the other side for a possible favorable combination). With my suggested, we could have two historic moments covered in a single sweep.

So, what if you are not into watching the political coverage?
You can always rely on the non-news cable networks for regular programming, should you not wish to view continuous coverage. The highlight/recap in the morning papers and news sources should be more than adequate for non-political viewing participants. Or, you could also rely on HBO.

Either way, we should have a good show...

No Problems - Only Solutions!
Quite frankly, I am looking forward to the end of all of this political rhetoric so that we may return to focus. Perhaps I am somewhat unimpressed with hyperbole - for you see, it all comes down to results.

Grand standing, appearances on Saturday Night Live, and face time on every conceivable Talk Show simply do not leave one with a clear understanding of qualification or convincing ability to achieve results. We have yet to hear actual, real and quantifiable solutions. I want answers, not entertainment - wait, that's my job!

I continue to hear, "It's time for Change", to which I reply,"Yeah, that sounds really good. What did you have in mind?" however never really hear exact details of said proposed "Change".

Having said, I do like and appreciate the intention of the possible. However really, change could mean a number of things and could honestly sway for the better or worse, depending on the circumstance. I would strongly suggest that the 'Admin' find a way to define and articulate conditions of said "Change" as soon as possible.

On the other side, there does not seem to be much talk about "Change" or really anything of relevance except shout out to 'Joe the Plumber' and an unknown group of 5th graders...

Ah, maybe my common sense getting the best of me...Anyway, may the best, and most qualified candidate win (Despite history).

The Fall 2008 TV Schedule

Welcome Back!

Another end to another great week?

Now that summer is finally beginning to wind down, I am not displeased. I have more than enjoyed the 'Warmth', now it is time to return to cute hats, trendy coats, sweaters and real shoes - finally! For some reason, I have my greatest fashion inspiration during the summer months for fall wearing.

With all of this wishful thinking and good cheer, it's time for our favorites both old and new to return to the small screen.

Coming to a Television Near You...
Having said, I am anxiously awaiting the return of America's Next Top Model (Although, not sure why as I will claim a loss of interest after the first episode), but never mind that...I am confident something within the line-up will garner your TV watching attention.

Below is your full Fall 2008 TV schedule, compliments of Yours Truly and as well, your favorite networks. Again, as always, please feel free to copy, duplicate, disperse, re-broadcast, and tape to your refrigerator.

As follows:

• America’s Toughest Jobs (NBC) 8/25/08
• High School Stories (MTV) 8/25/08
• My Super Sweet 16 Presents: Exiled (MTV) 8/25/08
• Janice Dickinson’s Modeling Agency (Oxygen) 8/26/08
• Grizzly Man Diaries (Discovery) 8/29/08
  
  
• America’s Next Top Model 11 (CW) 9/03/08
• Top Design 2 (Bravo) 9/3/08
• Kitchen Nightmares (Fox) 9/04/08
• Dogtown (National Geographic) 9/05/08
• The Locator (WE) 9/06/08
• Rachel Zoe Project (Bravo) 9/08/08
• Hole in the Wall (Fox) 9/11/08
• Solo: Lost at Sea (National Geographic) 9/15/08
• The Biggest Loser 6: Families (NBC) 9/16/08
• Survivor Gabon (CBS) 9/18/08
• In Harm’s Way (CW) 9/21/08
• Dancing with the Stars 7 (ABC) 9/22/08
• Opportunity Knocks (ABC) 9/23/08
• Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (ABC) 9/28/08
• The Amazing Race 13 (CBS) 9/28/08
• World’s Toughest Fixes (National Geographic) 9/28/08
  
  
• Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style 2 (Bravo) 10/02/08
• Supernanny (ABC)10/03/08
• Wife Swap (ABC) 10/03/08
• Real Housewives of Atlanta (Bravo) 10/07/08
• Gimme My Reality Show! (Fox Reality) 10/11/08
• Stylista (CW) 10/29/08
  

Other shows set for fall debut, but not yet on the schedule:

• Top Chef (Bravo)
• Project Runway (Lifetime)
• Rock of Love: Charm School (Vh1)
• Scream Queens (Vh1)

Ah, as you can see with such a line-up of programming, the good news is that we will have literally hours and hours of conversation and much to discuss in greater detail as the shows unfold this season - great news all around!

Our Summer of Reality

Here we are...

Welcome friends, we are in the middle of yet another week on the dry arid wasteland (aka Los Angeles) - hot enough for you? The weather is certainly delivering more sunshine and heat than one could have hoped and I will finally admit to being 'a little warm' in this pre-summer season.

Let The Season Begin.

While everyone is busy viewing the season ending episodes of the network ratings behemoths, America's Next Top Model, The Bachelor, Dancing with the Stars (Congrats to Kristi Yamaguchi), and American Idol - I am simply too busy (Meaning, I refuse to make time) to sit down to watch regular television, when all of the 'great' entertainment is on the web (Gasp!).

Having said, we can all commend the networks for trailing into the Internet space with carefully selected clips (Rather than full-episode) - all we need are the highlights. However, the cable networks have the right idea and a clear vision of the inevitable future of distribution, as they are presenting a much better offering of original web based content AND complimentary full-episodes.

On The Web

Admittedly, I watch more shows on the web, than on regular television...As peculiar as this may sound, I am all about 'Control'. Oh, read this now networks and cable companies of America, I need to watch what I want, when it is convenient for my schedule!

What upwardly mobile person has time to sit around waiting for a scheduled program to air, and provide viewership at the same day and time for 13 weeks? Of course, the measure of convenience would simply be to just make the show available on the web and it will somehow, miraculously make my schedule.

Speaking of schedules...

The summer officially begins this week and we should look ahead with giddy excitement to this summer of reality - Alas, there are plenty of season ending episodes to watch from your lovely air conditioned (I hope) abode.

So as promised, let us proceed to the line-up (Again, you are encouraged to fax, email, and re-broadcast this list - I grant you temporary reprint rights):

• The Bachelorette 4 (ABC) May 19
  
• So You Think You Can Dance 4 (FOX) May 22
  
• Last Comic Standing 6 (NBC) May 22
  
• Bridezillas (WE), June 1
  
• The Next Food Network Star 4 (Food Network) June 1
  
• The Mole 3 (ABC) June 2
  
• Legally Blonde The Musical (MTV) June 2
  
• 30 Days (FX) June 3
  
• She’s Got the Look (TVLand) June 4
  
• Design Star 3 (HGTV) June 8
  
• Master of Dance (TLC) June 8
  
• Ice Road Truckers (History) June 8
  
• Nashville Star 6 (NBC) June 9
  
• Celebrity Circus (NBC) June 11
  
• Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List (Bravo) June 12
  
• America’s Got Talent 3 (NBC) June 17
  
• Flipping Out (Bravo) June 17
  
• Baby Borrowers (NBC) June 25
  
• Shear Genius 2 (Bravo) June 25
  
• Dance Machine (ABC) June 27
  
• Greatest American Dog (CBS) July 10
  
• Big Brother 10 (CBS) July 13
  
• I Love Money (Vh1) July 13
  
• High School Musical: Get in the Picture (ABC) July 20
  
• Jingles (-Working Title) (CBS) July 27
  
• How to Look Good Naked (Lifetime) July (Re-scheduled)
  
• My Super Sweet 16 Presents: Exiled (MTV) August 25

So, there you have it - Your Summer Reality TV schedule for 2008. Some of the shows you know, by way of this what I would like to believe is an informative, entertaining, witty and insightful Blog. Rest assured, looking at the above list, we will have much to keep us talking for a long, long, long time this season.

As they say, Check your local listings....

*The image above is the cover of TV Guide Magazine featuring Dancing with Stars, provided by Gemstar-TV Guide International, Inc.

The Stars Have No Secret Talent

Hey Sunshine!

We have had another busy week around the ranch - and I am sure you have seen the headlines of the big events that transpired this week.

Of course, I am not speaking of world, economic or political events - this is not a news Blog. Why, I do not even watch conventional news programs nor read articles in the newspaper - it's a bit negative for my interest. As well, I am working on a low or no-negative information diet. I encourage you to try it - Bliss can be AMAZING!

Yes, I realize this is not what we are taught in school, however I prefer to be immersed in more immediate events that transpire and that in which can be controlled around me.

Anyway, here is what you may or may not have missed: Mariah and Madonna have topped records (Previously held by Elvis - which is amazing in itself), the American Idol Gives Back telecast raised just north of $60 million (Incidentally, ratings for CSI have topped American Idol), NBC and Lifetime are in legal fisticuffs over Project Runway (More on this later), and this devastation: CBS has canceled Secret Talents of The Stars.

Just No Love
Wait, before you throw yourself into a deep dark cavernous place of depression, did you even watch the show?

My guess is probably not.

Welcome back...For you see, the reality show was canceled by CBS due to low ratings - that's how this business works. If you do not watch, there is no reason to continue to finance a show - it's far too expensive; even when product placement and sponsors are paying for the show, the production must still be able to make enough money to keep all parties involved 'in the black' on the balance sheet.

As well, I cannot let you take all of the blame - I did not write about the show before hand to promote and encourage your participation. As 'Your Guide to Pop Culture', I share the concern. Even better, the networks love it when I talk about their shows and I love to talk about them.

More than 4, but Less Than 5
If you were among the lucky 4.6 million who tuned in, you saw George Takei (Officer Sulu) from the original Star Trek sing "On the Road Again", and Clint Black (Country Singer) performing a stand up routine, and singer Mya tap dancing.

According to CBS:
[The Show] is about celebrities showing off their hidden talents"Each week, celebrities will compete in a tournament-structured format to determine who has the BEST unknown talent.

Each performance will be critiqued by three judges - but it's the viewers who get to vote for the celebrity that has impressed them the most. Each week, the viewer vote will determine which celebrities move on in the competition, and who will go home."

My question: What Went Wrong?
The premise of the show sounded entertaining at first pass. Was it the 'Stars', was it a lack of 'Talent', wrong schedule?

With a line-up up George Takei, Clint Black, Marla Maples, Ben Stein, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Sheila E., and Danny Bonaduce how could there not be interest? Ah, perhaps the 'Problem' rests with what we call the 'talent'...

Talent could mean many things and in this case the term could easily apply to the 'Stars' or the 'Talents' in which they were performing ranging from stand up, to singing, to playing an instrument, rapping, dancing salsa, or magic tricks - there was just so much.

I know that you are not tired of reality shows as record numbers of you continue to tune in each and every week. I am truly amazed at how many people comment about reality shows, yet can tell me everything that went down on any given show - now that takes a talent.

So, I am left to conclude that if it were say HOT Brad Pitt, cutie-pie Justin Timberlake, or hunky Matthew McConaughey and my recent interest "My other husband", Scottish import Gerard Butler (Alright, I will try to tone it down), maybe you would have been inclined to watch - ?

Perhaps it is possible there just simply was not enough talent to keep this show on the air...Well, if the before mentioned was the talent at least I know of one person who would have been watching the show (smile).

If you missed show, you can watch the first and quite possibly the only episode of Secret Talents of the Stars on the CBS website:

http://www.cbs.com/primetime/secret_talents_of_the_stars/

*The Secret Talents of the Stars logo above is provided compliments of CBS/Viacom.

America's Top Dog

Well, well...

You know of my particular fondness for the show America's Next Top Model (Although, my interest has been waning a bit during this last season) and I have often commented that ANTM has inspired many, many new reality shows.

Well move over Tyra, it appears CBS has ordered a new show produced by RJ Cutler (Actual Reality Pictures) called, America's Top Dog.

According to friends at CBS, "America's Top Dog is a new one hour-long series where 'man's best friend' can help its owner win big money!

From 'pageant dogs' to those dogs simply trained at home - will live together and battle it out in a dog competition that puts the dog's relationship with the person who has raised and trained it to the test.

In the end, only one team of loving owner and faithful dog will emerge the winner in this dog-eat-dog competition!"

Owners and Their Dogs

Personally, and this may shock many of you, I am not so much a dog person (Gasp). Alright, do not misunderstand, I appreciate dogs as someone else's pet and have a number of friends that prefer canine ownership.

Undoubtedly, dogs are truly 'loyal' and provide love unconditionally to their owners. Equally, owners are just as passionate (Obsessed) about their best four-legged friends and often consider them a member of the family.

Dogs in particular are often considered the reflective of an owner and they are often adorned with standard names generally given to most infants and are often treated as a 'baby' member of the family.

Having said (Yes, a non-sequitur), I am often puzzled as to why people say "Good Boy" to their dogs and speak to them using a silly tone one would generally use when speaking to babies. Literally interpreted, a dog is not a 'Boy', nor a baby. Perhaps I have missed the rules and special code of dog ownership that requires you treat your dog as a human child...

As well, I have never heard someone call a cat "Good Boy" - and use the silly infant talk when speaking to feline pets. Further, cats tend to have more 'Animal' related names than their dog counterparts (Ala Toonces, Socks, Smokey, Ms. Kitty and the like). Think about it...

The Dog and Pony Show
Many of you may have watched the competitive dog shows on television. The Westminster Dog Show has been airing for many years and is one of the most highest rated programs during its broadcast.

As a matter of fact, one of my favorite movies is the hysterical tongue-n-cheek Christopher Guest Mock-u-mentary Best In Show, which takes you behind the scenes of a major canine event competition with colorful characters, witty dialog and clever scenarios.

The brilliant and comical events all transpire around the hotel, in which the dogs and owners are staying and the convention center of where the 'show' event is set to commence.

Drama In The Doggie Park
The underlying theme is that dog shows/competitions are very similar to real life beauty pageants, complete with inherent drama, endless preparation and consumption, and stage-moms/dads. The pressure and the stakes are just as high and unrelenting.

Further, what you may not have noticed within the above Top Dog descriptive synopsis is that in true reality style (Remember, we have discussed in previous posts), is the fact that the owners and dog pets are competing against each other.

To magnify situations for the purpose of being interesting and really cue the drama, the owners and dog pets will ALL BE LIVING TOGETHER (Probably in a mansion, for 13 weeks - you should know this standard reality show ingredient by now).

What's The Deal?
What has yet to be determined is exactly what it is in which they (Dogs and owners) are competing.

Is it similar to America's Next Top Model where the winner gets the title of being America's Next Top Model (In this case, America's Top Dog) a feature in 17 Magazine (In this case, a pet magazine?), a $100,000 modeling contract with (Insert Pet Food Company Here), and the job as spokes dog for Pet Smart? These important details have yet to be announced...

Should be good fun and the show is expected to air later this year.

Your Reality TV Schedule for 2008

Hello, hello, hello...

As we have officially returned back to regularly scheduled programming (Amidst the horrific writer's strike - which continues to halt production here in Los Angeles and now apparently around the entire world). Friends, neighbors and countrymen/women - Stop the MADNESS!

Where's The Promised Hollywood Ending?
Before we begin today's escape, I wish to quickly mention just as friends at the Weinstein Company, we are also in the process of making our own deals with independent writers - if all of the independents joined together, we can force an end to this debacle. We need a Hollywood Ending.

More Reality on The Schedule
Now, on to a more hopeful subject is the new and returning reality offerings for 2008.

I am often asked, do I know about shows before the air on television - um...YEAH! Sometimes I hear about shows a year or more in advance and by the time it is aired I am usually thinking, "Did we not already see that show?".

The second most frequently asked question is "Do I actually watch reality shows?". Again, yes. When I make time, I am usually watching a reality show or a movie when I REALLY create time.

So, let's see what we will be watching this season (Yes, you may print this list and tape to the refrigerator):

• American Idol 7 (FOX), Jan. 15
  
• My Fair Brady…Maybe Baby? (VH1), Jan. 20
  
• Millionaire Matchmaker (Bravo), Jan. 22
  
• Gauntlet III (MTV), Jan. 23
  
• Survivor 16 (CBS), Feb. 7
  
• Big Brother 9 (CBS), Feb. 12
  
• Baby Borrowers (NBC), Feb. 18
  
• Pussycat Dolls 2: Girlicious (CW), Feb. 18


• America’s Next Top Model 10 (CW), Feb. 20
  
• Oprah’s Big Give (ABC), March 2


• When Women Rule the World (FOX), March 3


• Dancing with the Stars 5 (ABC), March 17
  
• The Bachelor 12 (ABC), March 17
  
• Top Chef 4 (Bravo), March 19


• Hell’s Kitchen 4 (FOX), April 1
  
• The Real World Hollywood (MTV), May 21

Not to worry, there are many more reality shows beyond May 21st and I will provide witty analysis (aka 'Comment') on each of the shows as we near closer to the broadcast date.

We can still look forward to the debut of Randy Jackson's Best Dance Crew (Formerly known as World Moves), Farmer Wants a Wife, and My Dad is Better Than Your Dad (Return to 5th grade - this is not part of the title, however the statement should be)...

As well, all of this reality fare around Superbowl 500 (Not really, I am just feeling largely despondent that my Seattle is no longer in contention for the title, for yet another year!).

Wait There's More...
Having said, future Blogs are guaranteed forthcoming on the new shows, such as Millionaire Matchmaker (Bayonne Entertainment), Baby Borrower's (Love Productions), Oprah's Big Give (Produced by Harpo Productions), When Women Rule the World (Rocket Science Labs) - which promises to be not only realistic (IMHO), but as well, entertaining - Can you say, "Man Servant?" - this should be good fun!

The good news is that from the appearance of the above schedule, you should have continuous reality entertainment each and every night of the week (Or, at least that is the idea)...

The Reality Departed of 2007

Ah, I am finally getting up-to-date, thank you for all of your email messages and holiday wishes!

While I was busy discussing all of my favorite things last week, Entertainment Weekly published it's list of Best/Worst of 2007. Some of the items were deserved of being deemed "Best" while others were relegated to the Junk pile.

So....I started thinking about some of the "Disappointments" last year in the world of reality television. I know it is difficult to believe that there could possibly be reality TV show casualties, but alas there were some real ("Insert words here"), in 2007.

Allow me to refresh your memory with the following:

1. On the Lot (Fox). What happened with this show?! I have had many conversation about this show with numerous people. Although the show had all of the right American Idol type ingredients (3 credible judges, a host, amateur talent, and a public voting system), something just did not keep the interest. Even Mark Burnett does not even know what happened!

2. The Next Great American Band (Fox). Again, another AI scenario - One foreign judge with an accent, 80's Diva (Sheila E. this time), cutie pop rocker Johnny Rzeznick (Goo Goo Dolls) and some dude who was trying to be Ryan Seacrest = Snoozefest.

3. The Apprentice (NBC). Well, we know what happened here (Mass commercial product placement disguised as 'tasks').

Quite frankly, Don does not even know the names of the marketing executives who commandeer being written into the show (It's tough to believe that some nameless marketing execs at some corporation are "Good friends" of Trump). Even more, the 'tasks' always involve a plug for Trump's latest project (Golf course, casino, condo, shuttle, business suits, cuff links, steaks, water, et al). So far, the success of this new season will be subjective.

4. The Great American Dream Vote (ABC). This show seemed like a good idea - who does not want their dreams to come true? You mean, Donnie Osmond could not appeal to the masses? Or, maybe the problem was the show...Viewers commented that the said 'Dreams' of the contestants were the issue (Guy who wanted hair plugs to propose to his girlfriend). The dreams just were not big enough...

5. The Bachelor (ABC). Oooh, apparently many of you are still discussing the final episode in which Bachelor Brad did not pick either of the two remaining hopefuls - I still think he made the best choice by choosing to remain single...We do not want to see yet ANOTHER failed Bachelor.

Well, the good news is that despite a lousy track record for The Bachelor, ABC is already working on The Bachelor 12. My suggestion is that they consider bringing in a professional matchmaker or relationship counselor - but, that's a different show.

6. Hey Paula! (Bravo). Yes, this deserves yet another mention. Paula announced that she will not be returning for another season of her version of reality, claiming that it was too painful for her to watch - many would agree.

7. National Bingo Night. Come on, your grandparents probably played it - why would it not work on prime-time network television?

8. Armed & Famous (CBS). Celebrities as Police Officers....In Muncie, Indiana. This should could have gotten lively had the location been here in Tinseltown, but I digress. You proved a point that we cannot mix 'D-List' celebs as Police Officers in a small town on a national network - Got it!

9. Nashville (USA). Have I mentioned American Idol too many times within this post? You cannot use the same ingredients and expect to have something unique in every dish...Huh?

Finally, last place goes to not one, but two One-hit wonders:

10. Anchorwoman (Fox) and The Victoria Beckham Show (NBC). Anchorwoman (About a former something or other who moves across country to a small town to work at a TV station) - yanked after one episode.

As for the Victoria Beckham Show - a similar tale about another former something moving across country (Literally) to a small town (L.A.) to work on a reality show. Only her show was pared down from a full blown reality series, to an hour special.

I like Victoria Beckham fine, and am looking forward to the Spice Girls reunion. However, British Press was over embellishing that American Producers were 'Clamoring' or in this case 'Clamouring' and falling all over ourselves to sign Beckham to a deal....Not quite. Most people on this side of the pond do not even know of Victoria Beckham. This could easily go down as the most expensive $10 Million dollar one-off reality show deal in recent history.

Let's look forward to more reality show departures in 2008 - Just go easy on the ones that are mine!

The Night of The Red-Nosed Reindeer

Feeling the holiday cheer?

Well there is nothing to get you into the festive cheer than the great classic holiday favorites. With less than 2 weeks until the big holiday, I am definitely in the holiday cheer...

With all of this merriment, you may have seen a plethora of holiday perennial classics such as Frosty the Snowman, How The Grinch Stole Christmas, Miracle on 34h Street, A Diva's Christmas Carol (Not really a classic - I just like the way it sounds), A Charlie Brown Christmas (My personal favorite), and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Ah, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - remember this animated classic?

Admittedly, when I was little I used to cry every time watching this one...Frankly, the thought of Christmas being cancelled due to bad weather was simply heart wrenching when I was a 6 year old (If you have seen the show, this horrific thought will make more sense). Now as an adult, I have not seen the show in years and the last time I had seen the program, I do recall smiling during the entire show.

Snap to 2007: The Models vs. The Red-Nosed Reindeer
So here we are today and it appears that you still like holiday programs as last week CBS aired Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Rudolph's ratings (Over 14 million viewers) literally trounced the ratings for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, which also ran on CBS (two hours later) with 7 million viewers, (Roughly 14 million to 7 million viewers).

The point being, Rudolph and company received double the ratings of the models sashaying down the runway in their underwear.

Quality Family Entertainment
So what does it all mean? First, it is possible that families still get together and watch quality entertainment (That's encouraging news). Rudolph has been around since 1964, I wonder if people (Meaning families) have been watching it since then? I know that I had watched the show for at least a couple of decades.

And just what about the models? Maybe it is possible that viewers are just simply not all that interested in watching models parade around in underwear (Albeit Victoria's Secret) and fake angel wings...

According to reports, the VS show had gains this year over last (more than 7% - thanks to the Spice Girls). However ratings for the show have been declining every year since the original debut on ABC in 2001 (Over 12 million viewers back then).

Perhaps viewers just are not that interested in watching a show about nothing but underwear?

Right, I mean just what exactly is that intriguing about watching a lengthy infomercial disguised as runway fashion show for under garments? Oh, and just in case you were wondering what to buy your wife/girlfriend, why not purchase some lingerie as featured here on the world's leading supermodels...

Having said, my question is who is the target audience for this show?

You might be quick to conclude male. However upon a visit to the store, it is highly unlikely that you will ever see a male shopping in a Victoria's Secret store....At least, not that I have noticed and believe me - Here's some free advice to men, you would definitely get noticed in Victoria's Secret store! Okay, so they must be shopping...online. Would we ever see a Calvin Klein "Boxers or Briefs" fashion show with male models? I am merely suggesting equal time (You see, another great idea).

Now, I am not implying that every show on television have relevance (Obviously that would be biting the hand that feeds), simply stating that when I feel like shopping (Which is a daily affliction) - I am not watching television.

Here's a thought, what if every retailer had their own show - we would not be in the store buying merchandise, we would be at home watching television (This is far from Rocket Science).

Which leads me in precarious thought to provide more free advice: Play Your Special IN THE STORE, not on a national television network where the results may be subject to marginal impact (Marketing 101: match the right message with the right vehicle).

Yeah, I will wait for the next broadcast of Rudolph....Happy Holidays.



*The photo image "Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer" (1964) featuring the voice of Burl Ives is provided by CBS/ Classic Media.

About The Strike...

I was just thinking of you....So, have you started noticing re-runs (I mean, re-broadcasts is the new term) of your favorite shows yet?

In case you have been living under something (I call it being busy), you may have noticed that we are in the midst of a Writer's strike. After a week into this fiasco, it's time to take a quick inventory of the casualties....

Before We Begin

First, although I am a writer - I am not on strike. However, I completely support the writers and feel they are worth EVERY Penny. If you have ever attempted to write something, you already have insight into how much talent, concentration, and creativity is required.

Just as many, I began my career writing. At the time it was news reports that started with brief 5 minute newscasts consisting of re-writes ripped from the AP Wire to eventually the writing of full-blown investigative reports. I was into writing and reporting all things related to news - there was not a story that I did not already have a story written and, yes I believed that news broadcasting was going to be my entire career...More on this later...

Writing the news is a different kind of writing comprised of factual for the purpose of dissemination of information and not nearly as fun as writing fiction (Of which requires a much more creative effort).

Week 1

As mentioned, we are now 7 days into the bull-horns and whistles of a strike and so far we have casualties to report including layoffs (NBC's Conan/Tonight Show), delayed seasons (24), job losses (NBC's The Office), celebrities joining the picket lines (Even Rage Against The Machine front man and Jesse Jackson - who knew he cared so much about the entertainment industry, as well), threats of legal action against Showrunners (20th Century Fox and CBS Paramount), and the area coffee shops are also affected.

During all of this, the biggest of the calamity apparent to viewers has been suffered by the late-night talk shows. Who knew that Jay Leno and Dave required someone to write jokes for them? You mean you are not charming and witty enough to do a live show?

I mean, how are we going to hear the latest movie project of the celebrity du jour, without late-night puerile humor and chit-chat? Good grief, I am coming undone...Get the shows back on the road...Stat!

Despite the late-night fare, other shows were not immediately affected, including the daytime dancing chatter fest Ellen, which will continue production. Host Ellen DeGeneres told her studio audience at Tuesday's taping, "That she was obligated under her contract to continue the show, although she supported the striking writers". Does someone actually write her dancing routine at the beginning of her show or something?

Having said, several 'daytimers' continue to air including Oprah (Who probably has an entire stock inventory of shows - you know we are in dire straights if we start noticing 'Classic' Oprah shows suddenly back on the schedule - it's all big hair and shoulder pads), gabfest The View and blabber Dr. Phil also remain on the air without incident, and Tyra Banks is still walking to New York.

On Hold

Amidst the turmoil, a few actually lament the strike could actually become a positive. Ailing shows can take a breather before heading to the block: Yes, I am already speaking of a series in which we all had high hopes: Bionic Woman and Friday Night Lights may be looming near a sudden conclusion.

On the other side, one studio (Fox/News corp) is already reporting 'zesty optimism' stating, "We are saving more money in terms of deals" - says, Peter Chernin, President of News corp.

Perhaps, but my question, are you making money? - simply because that is what matters and it is a question of glass half-empty or glass half-full. Financial lesson 1, short-term savings does not equal long-term effect. Many would agree, this is certainly not the time for under estimating the pending yet-to-be determined impact of such an event with grandiose over assessments.

A Reality Glimmer of Hope

However, where there is not scripted - there is unscripted opportunity and Fox is the purveyor of all things Idol (Set to re-emerge in January), and should the strike continue it is likely that more viewers will tune in to watch Idol rather than other network re-broadcasts...I was enjoying the break.

My final note to the networks (Ben, Kevin, and Steve), forget Ultimate Fighting let's get some new reality shows on the air - those ideas don't sound all that bad, now do they?

The photo above features actors Maura Tierney and John Stamos joined in support with protestors from the Writer's Guild of America at Warner Bros. Television Studios in Los Angeles, Calif., Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2007 and is compliments of ABC News.

The Week In Review

Tons of stuff has happen over the past week (My weeks are 7 days - yeah, a little unconventional, go with me on this one), so let's take a look back at the major events in Reality:

The highly controversial show Kid Nation debuted with fairly decent ratings on CBS. Really, it is great news to hear that all of the miscellaneous publicity, pre-judgment, flagrant criticism and overly concerned speculation may have actually helped viewership of the show. We just love watching the kids as they attempt to build and manage their own little town without supervision!

It's Time to Get Fierce
Of course, I was way too busy watching America's Next Top Model on CW (No TIVO for my top show) to view any of the other shows that had also aired on the same night - I have my priorities. Quite frankly, I was not able to get through the first 30 minutes of the show without dislodgement - my various phones are always on and within easy reach.

Hell In The Kitchen
Fox also gave us Nightmares...I mean, Kitchen Nightmares last week with Chef Gordon Ramsay. What I would like to know: WHO is running this guy's restaurants while he is away telling everyone else how to run their restaurant?

In other news, the two-hour season finale of Last Comic Standing aired on NBC - Although Bill B is a friend of mine, I could not tell you who won the laughfest or what it was they had won.

On that joke (?), it is safe to conclude that perhaps my 'Comic burn-out' happened somewhere along an episode of Kathy Griffin's "My Life on The D-List" - congratulations on the Emmy. It only hurts when I laugh...

Beauty & the Geek also had a big debut in it's encore presentation on Fox and there appears to be a new twist -- Ashton Kutcher, you continue to impress -- a hunky guy and one nerdy girl. I am good with the recent induction....

Surviving Survivor?
The 15th installment of Survivor (CBS): This time in China, met a great opening week with nearly 15 million viewers according to the ratings report. Good news considering that show is the first American reality program to be filmed in the country.

Every Battle is Won, Before it is Ever Fought
Right, I admire the fact that the group was instructed to leave behind 'worldly possessions' and then subsequently given a copy of Sun Tzu's The Art of War...An orchestrated gesture that seemed somewhat overdone for your benefit.

Anyway, I read The Art of War when I was just a kid, around about the same time I had read Donald Trump's book The Art of The Deal.

Who knew that being in world's oldest civilization and the teaching of Bing Fa on a modern day reality show for a month is much like the battle of corporate, conglomerate business warfare (?).

Alright Grasshopper, so it is quite possible that I am missing the point (if one exists), however would the experience be considered valuable on a resume when it is time to apply for a real job?

Good Riddance...
Last and very, very least, Evel (Not a misspelling) Dick (Again, not a misspelling) won Big Brother 8 (CBS).

Ah, with all of the bandannas, tatts, piercings, wild hair and the overall general appearance of poor hygiene, I thought the guy was a member of the band Motley Crew - not quite and not that cool.

Get Ready For This Week
The good news is that we are into a new week, and we have Dancing with the Stars (ABC), the finale of the Pick-up Artist (Vh1), the premiere of The Bachelor (ABC), Ultimate Fighter 6 (Spike), Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (ABC).

...and most important, the re-imagined Bionic Woman (NBC) - hardly a reality show I know, but I am excited about this one and had to find a way to mention the show in this post...