Fall 2011 TV Preview - NETWORK


Once again, Labor Day has come and passed. The summer is officially over. That means a few things: school is back in session, NFL just restarted, MLB playoffs are a few weeks away. But for me, the most important item on the Fall agenda is the renewal of TV. After a few months of Press Tour, Comic Con, TCA sessions, and mad advertising, the 4 1/2 Networks are back with their Fall offerings.
In today’s column, I will highlight NETWORK shows, both old and new, that I am anticipating/dreading for the new season. In tomorrow’s Part II, I will tackle CABLE shows. For Network, I will go by weekdays (Weekend TV blows). For Cable, by premiere dates. BOOK IT!!!
MONDAY -
- 2 Broke Girls [CBS, 8:30pm] - (*NEW*) This new comedy has potential for some laughs. Created by comedienne Whitney Cummings, who is starring in her own show on NBC, the title is basically the show’s premise. Kat Dennings has always been cute. (Giving It A Shot)
- Two and a Half Men [CBS, 9:00pm] - I am only mentioning this because of the Kutcher factor. Will he be able to make people forget about Sheen? I doubt it. But let’s see where this new trio takes us. (Worth A Try)
- Terra Nova [FOX, 8:00pm] - (*NEW*) I cannot recall a network show that has been this hyped for as long as this one has. After several premiere delays, FOX seems (semi) ready to unleash this epic Dinosaur tale to us. (Skeptical)
- The Playboy Club [NBC, 10:00pm] - (*NEW*) This Mad Men knockoff looks utterly superficial and boring. They may have the T & A down pat, but the story seems so generic and blah. (This Will Fail)
TUESDAY -
- New Girl [FOX, 9:00pm] - (*NEW*) The always adorable Zooey Deschanel is starring in her own show, or in other words, every hipster’s dream. Although she seems a bit TOO perfect for FOX, I am eager to see what this show has in store for us. (My Interst Is Piqued)
WEDNESDAY -
- Happy Endings [ABC, 9:30pm] - This show was a mid-season replacement last season that ended up gaining some steam. Fun and likable cast. Looking forward to good things this full first season. (Watch This)
- Revenge [ABC, 10:00pm] - (*NEW*) After her family was scorn 17 years ago, Emily returns to town with one thing on her mind, vengeance. (Potential)
- The X Factor [FOX, 8:00pm] - (*NEW*) Simon Cowell is back with his second smash hit show from the UK. The guy is a baller! (He’s Back!)
- Up All Night [NBC, 8:00pm] - (*NEW*) Will Arnett has had an unlucky track record when it comes to network sitcoms. I think this time he found a winner. Christina Applegate and Maya Rudolph round out this funny threesome. (Should Have Laughs)
THURSDAY -
- Charlie’s Angels [ABC, 8:00pm] - (*NEW*) Basically, the only reason to watch this 70’s rehash it for the smoking hot broads. (Sexy Filler)
- How To Be A Gentleman [CBS, 8:30pm] - (*NEW*) If you tell me that you are putting together: Kevin Dillon (Johnny Drama), Dave Foley (News Radio), Rhys Darby (Flight of the Conchords) and Chloe from 24, I am in! (Geared To Guys)
- Community [NBC, 8:00pm] - Season 3 of this awesome cult favorite is back. If that wasn’t enough to cheer, they’ve added Walter Sobchak and Omar Little to the cast! (Hell Yes!)
- Parks and Recreation [NBC, 8:30pm] - This is the BEST sitcom on (network) TV. Has been for two years running. WATCH IT!!! (Tremendous)
- The Office [NBC, 9:00pm] - We are going Michael Scott-free for the first time. James Spader has joined the employees of Dunder Miflin as the new manager. Should be an interesting season. (Cautiously Optomistic)
- Whitney [NBC, 9:30pm]- (*NEW*) Cummings is this season’s “It Girl”. NBC is going heavy into this plunge. Based on the trailers, I am somewhat questioning that decision making. (No Idea What To Expect)
FRIDAY -
- Shark Tank [ABC, 9:00pm] - Mark Cuban is back with his popular reality show. This season should outdo lasts. (Money Hungry)
- Chuck [NBC, 8:00pm] - After a wild ride, the show is finally coming to end this year. If the gossip from the showrunners is correct, should be an excellent ending to the cult series. (Nerd Fun)