“Whitechapel,” “American Horror Story” and “The Walking Dead” among top choices for Halloween-related viewing
From left, Phil Davis, Rupert Penry-Jones and Steve Pemberton of "Whitechapel" - BBC America Photo
My three top choices to get the Halloween goosebumps going for the Halloween television viewing season are as follows:
- BBC America delivers some pre-Halloween chills with the U.S. premiere of the series “Whitechapel” at 9 p.m. Wed., Oct. 26.
“Whitechapel” is set in modern day East London where the police are trying to solve murders that echo cases from the past, including those involving Jack the Ripper and the 1960s crime twins Ronnie and Reggie Kray.
The six part series, from the producers of “Downton Abby,” stars Rupert Penry-Jones (“MI-5,” “Persuasion), Phil Davis (“Sherlock,” “Bleak House”) and Steve Pemberton (“The League of Gentleman).
- “American Horror Story” continues its bloodcurdling run at 9 p.m. Wed. Oct. 26 on FX, with the first of two “Halloween” episodes: Part 1 features the line between the living and the dead blurring on Halloween and two of the house’s previous residents giving the Harmons decorating advice. Part 2, airing at 9 p.m. Wed., Nov. 2, involves Tate coming face-to-face with his past and Ben and Vivien being haunted by one of the house’s newest guests.
Dylan McDermott, Connie Britton and Jessica Lange star in “American Horror Story.”
- “The Walking Dead,” which has just been renewed for a third season, airs its third spine-chiling episode of its second season at 8 p.m. Sun., Oct. 30 on AMC, in which the group desperately awaits Shane’s return as he finds himself trapped in a school surrounded by zombies, while Daryl and Andrea search for someone in the woods.
Andrew Lincoln, Jon Bernthal, Sarah Wayne Callies, Laurie Holden, Jeffrey DeMunn and Steven Yeun star in “The Walking Dead.”
– Melissa Hayer
mhayer@opubco.com
Follow me on Twitter: @MelissaHayer
Other various Halloween-related viewing options include:
- “Ghost Adventures” airs at 8 p.m. Fri., Oct. 28 on the Travel Channel – Zak, Nick and Aaron have come to Letchworth to unlock “The Village of Secrets.”
- “Iris Johansen’s The Killing Game,” based on the bestselling crime novel of the same name and starring Laura Prepon (“How I Met Your Mother”), airs at 7 p.m. Sun., Oct. 30 on Lifetime Movie Network.
- “Martha Stewart’s Haunted House” re-airs at 9 a.m. Mon., Oct. 31 on the Hallmark Channel, actor Justin Long is a guest.
- “The Sing-Off” airs at 7 p.m. Mon., Oct. 31 on NBC and features an opening medley of “This Is Halloween,” “Werewolves of London” and “Ghostbusters.”
- “Watch What Happens Live” airs at 10 p.m. Mon., Oct. 31 on Bravo – live Halloween party hosted by Andy Cohen in the Bravo Clubhouse.
- The Sundance Channel is offering some movies to whet your Halloween appetite, including “Dream Home,” airing at 10:30 p.m. Fri., Oct. 28, which centers on the story of a newlywed couple who wanted the American dream but end up in the middle of a nightmare. Gary and Jessica have moved into a suburban home in the rural countryside when Jessica begins to have strange, haunting visions of a mysterious woman wandering the halls and the shady locals hint at a morbid and tragic back story to the house; and “One Missed Call,” which airs at 9 p.m. Sat., Oct. 29, and is about college student Beth Raymond, whose friends have all been dying in droves and the one connecting factor between all of the incidents is that just before their deaths, each of the victims received a message in which they heard themselves being killed. Beth receives her own terrifying phone call and has only three days to solve the mystery and cheat death.
- If you’d like some humor instead of horror, ABC’s Tuesday and Wednesday (Oct. 25 and 26) night comedies, including “Last Man Standing” (7 p.m. Tues.), “The Middle” (7 p.m. Wed.),” “Suburgatory” (7:30 p.m. Wed.), “Modern Family” (8 p.m., Wed.) and “Happy Endings” (8:30 p.m. Wed.) have Halloween themes.
- NBC’s Thursday (Oct. 27) night comedies featuring Halloween episodes include “Community” (7 p.m) “Parks & Recreation” (7:30 p.m.) and “The Office” (8 p.m.)
- Additionally, “The Simpsons’” 22nd annual installment of “Treehouse of Horror” airs at 7 p.m., Sun., Oct. 30, on Fox.
(Information on programs provided by BBC America, FX, AMC, Sundance, ABC, NBC, Fox, Travel Channel, Lifetime Movie Network, Hallmark Channel and Bravo.)
From left, Atticus Shaffer, Patricia Heaton, Jake Netter, Devon Laos, Andrew J. Fishman, Mason Cook and Aidan Potter of "The Middle" - ABC Photo
Top 30 Guest Stars on TV Shows airing April 4-10, 2010
Friday is when The Oklahoman posts a list of the top guest stars (and all the premieres and finales, see separate blog) appearing on TV next week.
And here are 30 (or more) celebrities making special TV appearances the week of April 4.
If a well-known personality was missed, feel free to add his or her name in the comments section to help make this list a complete and accurate source for TV watchers everywhere.
NOTE: Times are CST (for EST, add one hour)
GUEST STARS
••Jessica Alba (“The Killer Inside Me”) on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” 7 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Madchen Amick (“My Own Worst Enemy”) on “CSI: NY,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Fred Armisen (“Saturday Night Live”) on “Parks and Recreation,” 7:30 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Bryan Batt (“Mad Men”) on “Ugly Betty,” 9:01 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Barry Bostwick (“Spin City”) on “Cougar Town,” 8:30 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••David Brenner (“The Hollywood Squares”) on “Modern Family,” 8 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Gary Cole (“Entourage”) on “The Good Wife,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Josh Cooke (“Big Day”) on “In Plain Sight,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on USA Network.
••Aunjanue Ellis (“True Blood”) on “The Mentalist,” 9 p.m. Thursday on CBS.
••Pam Grier (“The L Word”) on “Smallville,” 7 p.m. Friday on CW.
••Kathy Griffin (“My Life on the D-List”) on “The Marriage Ref,” 9 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Tess Harper (“Crash”) on “In Plain Sight,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on USA Network.
••Peter Horton (“Thirtysomething”) on “Life Unexpected,” 7 p.m. Monday on CW.
••Allison Janney (“The West Wing”) on “In Plain Sight,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on USA Network.
••Adam Kaufman (“Without a Trace”) on “NCIS,” 7 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Lainie Kazan (“My Big Fat Greek Life”) on “Til Death,” 6:30 p.m. Sunday on Fox.
••Minka Kelly (“Friday Night Lights”) on “Parenthood,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on NBC.
••Nathan Lane (“The Producers”) on “The Marriage Ref,” 9 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Jay Leno (“The Tonight Show”) on “Garage Mahal,” 8 p.m. Friday on DIY Network.
••Ross Mathews (“The Tonight Show”) on “America’s Next Top Model,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on CW.
••Dina Meyer (“Burn Notice”) on “NCIS,” 7 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Tracy Morgan (“30 Rock”) on “The Marriage Ref,” 9 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Martin Mull (“Mrs. Doubtfire”) on “Til Death,” 6:30 p.m. Sunday on Fox.
••Olivia Munn (“Iron Man 2″) on “Accidentally on Purpose,” 7:30 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Michael O’Neill (“The West Wing”) on “Miami Medical,” 9 p.m. Friday on CBS.
••David Paymer (“Line of Fire”) on “The Good Wife,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Kim Raver (“Lipstick Jungle”) on “Grey’s Anatomy,” 8 p.m. Thursday on ABC.
••Guy Ritchie (“Sherlock Holmes”) on “Top Gear,” 7 p.m. Monday on BBC America.
••Jason Ritter (“Joan of Arcadia”) on “Parenthood,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on NBC.
••Katee Sackhoff (“Battlestar Galactica”) on “The Big Bang Theory,” 7 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Michael Shanks (“Smallville”) on “Supernatural,” 8 p.m. Thursday on CW.
••Mary Steenburgen (“Joan of Arcadia”) on “Criminal Minds,” 8 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Susanna Thompson (“Once and Again”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Kate Walsh (“Private Practice”) on “Grey’s Anatomy,” 8 p.m. Thursday on ABC.
••Forest Whitaker (“The Last King of Scotland “) on “Criminal Minds,” 8 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
Pictured above: Host Bill Goldberg and late night talkshow host Jay Leno during DIY Network’s largest garage renovation as featured in a special episode of “Garage Mahal” (DIY Network Photo)
Top 55 TV Programs for April 4-10, 2010
Sunday’s Oklahoman, which includes TV Week, hits the newsstands in the Oklahoma City area on Saturday afternoon. And it arrives at the doorstep (or hopefully nearby) early Sunday morning.
But for those who can’t wait to begin planning the upcoming week around the best TV has to offer, here is a sneak peek at programs worth watching the week of April 4:
NOTE: Times are CST (for EST, add one hour)
SUNDAY, APRIL 4
••The 18th Annual Trumpet Awards (8 p.m. on TV One): Nicole Ari Parker (“The Deep End”) and Malcolm Jamal Warner (“Sherri”) co-host the event honoring African-American achievements in diverse fields such as law, religion, politics, public service, sports and entertainment. During the telecast, comedian, actor and radio personality Steve Harvey will be presented with the Pinnacle Award.
••”Antonio Treatment” (9 p.m. on HGTV): Built in the 1950s, the Highland Gardens Hotel (formerly the Landmark Hotel) has been the scene for some legendary Hollywood history — most notably as the place where rocker Janis Joplin died from an overdose back in 1970. But it hasn’t been updated much in the past few decades, and the owners assign Antonio Ballatore to give their rock ’n’ roll landmark a new party room.
••”Cold Case” (9 p.m. on CBS): After determining the serial killer’s identity – and some of his likely future targets – the team and the FBI work together to apprehend him while trying to locate and protect the people he’s preparing to kill. Susanna Thompson (“Once and Again”) returns as FBI agent Diane Yates.
••”Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (7 p.m. on ABC): Celebrity volunteer Jessica Alba (“The Killer Inside Me”) joins the team in Kemah, Texas, to surprise a big-hearted family of 15, all living together in a small trailer.
••”Good Luck Charlie” (7:30 p.m. on Disney): This new comedy focuses on what happens when a new baby joins the Duncan household and roles shift for everyone in the family, including teen siblings PJ and Teddy and tween brother Gabe, who must adjust to the many changes baby Charlie brings.
••”How to Make It in America” (9 p.m. on HBO): In the Season 1 finale, Cam suspects Rene of having something to do with the theft of the Rasta Monsta truck filled with his and Ben’s Crisp tees.
••”Masterpiece Classic” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): In “Sharpe’s Peril,” the new adventures of Richard Sharpe (Sean Bean) continue as he and Harper (Daragh O’Malley) lead a ragtag party of civilians and soldiers on a march across India.
••”Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom” (6 p.m. on Animal Planet): Season 8 kicks off with “Bearwalker of the Northwoods.” Dr. Lynn Rogers illustrates that many of the perceptions people have of black bears are wrong as he gets incredibly close to them — from taking naps with them in the woods to being able to put radio collars on them without sedating them.
••”Nature” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): The new installment “Moment of Impact: Hunters & Herds” focuses on savannahs and grassland, where the planet’s largest concentrations of herd animals come up against some of nature’s most successful hunters.
••”The Pacific” (8 p.m. on HBO): Finally enlisted as a Marine, Sledge trains for combat at Camp Elliott. The 1st Marine Division lands at Cape Gloucester on the Japanese-held island of New Britain.
••”Storm Riders” (8 p.m. on The Weather Channel): Get a sneak peek at the new series featuring scientists Juston Drake and Simon Brewer on a storm hunt. With no high-tech equipment, gadgets or antennas, these chasers are armed with a meteorology degree, map and cell phone as they rely on their education and gut instincts to get them to the center of the storm. The series is scheduled to premiere in fall.
••”Sunday Best” (7 p.m. on BET): Season 3 features gospel recording artists Pastor Donnie McClurkin and Yolanda Adams as new judges. In addition to the U.S. talent pool of competitors, the series hosted by Kirk Franklin goes to Lagos, Nigeria, for the first-ever international auditions to see who will become the next great gospel star.
••”Til Death” (6:30 p.m. on Fox): When Ally and Doug announce that they’re going to be parents, Joy has a meltdown about becoming a grandmother, forcing Eddie to call in his mother-in-law for help. Lainie Kazan (“My Big Fat Greek Life”) and Martin Mull (“Mrs. Doubtfire”) guest star.
••”Treasures of the Gilcrease: Charles Russell, Western Story Teller” (6:30 p.m. on OETA-13): Charles Russell remains one of the most significant American artists of the early 20th century. His depictions of cowboys, American Indians, historical figures and Western fauna are among the most well-known portrayals of the late 19th and early 20th century Western experience.
••”Two Wheel Oklahoma” (8:30 a.m. on OETA-13): This locally-produced travel show hosted by Tulsa motorcycle enthusiasts Brad Mathison and Rex Brown features scenic highways, unique destinations and interesting people they meet as they travel in and around Oklahoma.
••”Weatherproof” (9 p.m. on The Weather Channel): Meteorologist Stephanie Abrams and special effects technician Newton Wimer reveal how your home or car stacks up against deadly twisters as they create scenarios that could help make all the difference.
••”Undercover Boss” (8 p.m. on CBS): President and COO of Roto-Rooter Rick L. Arquilla goes undercover in his own company and finds himself overwhelmed with emotion while working alongside several employees who force him to reflect on his past as well as his future legacy as the boss of their company.
••”Unfaithful: Stories of Betrayal” (8 p.m. on Discovery Health): This special takes a look at why spouses have cheated and the reckless actions that lead to devastating consequences. It also provides insight and analysis from doctors.
MONDAY, APRIL 5, 2010
••”Adventure Time With Finn & Jake” (7 p.m. on Cartoon Network): This new animated series introduces viewers to unlikely heroes Finn and Jake, buddies who traverse the mystical Land of Ooo and encounter its colorful inhabitants. Finn, a silly kid with an awesome hat, and Jake, a brassy dog with a big, kind heart, depend on each other through thick and thin.
••”Antiques Roadshow” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): Items appraised in Hour 2 from Denver include a Dodger’s game-used jersey worn by Don Drysdale and an heirloom 1817 needlework family portrait.
••”Arthur” (3:30 p.m. on OETA-13): In the new episode “When Carl Met George,” George is excited about spending time with his new friend, Carl, who loves to draw trains and knows all kinds of facts about them. George discovers that Carl has Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism, and that Carl sees the world a bit differently than George and many kids. The story is followed by a live-action segment featuring kids with Asperger’s and autism.
••”The Big Bang Theory” (7 p.m. on CBS): After he’s humiliated on National Public Radio, Sheldon vows to destroy Kripke, while Wolowitz tries not to destroy his new relationship with Bernadette. “Battlestar Galactica” star Katee Sackhoff appears as herself, offering Wolowitz some relationship advice.
••”Christian Siriano: Having a Moment” (9 p.m. on Bravo): Get a glimpse into the life of the ‘‘Project Runway” Season 4 winner-turned-minimogul in this new special as he prepares for his third runway show. He oversees every aspect of his line from start-to-finish, model fittings, Emmy-dress appointments and balancing work and life with family, friends and work associates.
••”Empress Hotel” (7 p.m. on Documentary Channel): This film follows the stories and lives of 10 individuals living in San Francisco’s Empress Hotel and their battles against addiction and mental illness.
••”Life Unexpected” (7 p.m. on CW): With her wedding on the horizon, Cate decides to take a road trip with Lux to find her father, Gordon (Peter Horton, “thirtysomething”), who abandoned her when she was a little girl.
••”Little People, Big World” (7 p.m. on TLC): Season 5 continues with twins Zach and Jeremy, recently graduated from high school, taking off on their own for a European backpacking adventure. Soon, the rest of the Roloffs join for a full family vacation that includes visits to Italy and France.
••”Runaway Squad” (9 p.m. on A&E): This new real-life series follows former NYPD detective Joe Mazzilli and his team of private investigators, who track, rescue and reunite runaways with their families.
••”Saving Grace” (9 p.m. on TNT): As Grace deals with the aftermath of her dramatic fall from a building with Neely, she also struggles with the impending death of her grandfather, GeePaw. Meanwhile the squad investigates a double homicide involving a water dispute between two ranchers, and Rhetta discovers a secret about her daughter.
••”Storm Stories” (7:30 p.m. on The Weather Channel): This installment titled “Midwest Outbreak” spotlights a tornado sighted May 10, 2008, near Chetopa, Kansas. Before it is over, this mile-wide twister will destroy the town of Picher and claim more than 20 lives – including that of a 21-year-old firefighter from Missouri.
••”Top Gear” (7 p.m. on BBC America): Jeremy travels to Belfast to conduct an extremely thorough gtest of the Renaultsport Twingo 133. British film director Guy Ritchie (“Sherlock Holmes”) is featured in the star in a reasonably price car segment.
TUESDAY, APRIL 6, 2010
••”Dad’s in Heaven With Nixon” (7:30 p.m. on Showtime): This documentary by writer, director, producer Tom Murray traces his fractured childhood in 1960s Southampton, New York. He recounts his grandfather and father’s battles with bipolar disorder and, conversely, his brother’s prosperity through autism and how their afflictions affected their large, affluent Irish-American family.
••”The Good Wife” (9 p.m. on CBS): Alicia and Will defend a college student accused of killing her sorority sister while under the influence of a sleep aid. Gary Cole (“Entourage”) returns as ballistics expert Kurt McVeigh. David Paymer (“Line of Fire”) returns as Judge Richard Cuesta.
••”Inside the Perfect Predator” (9 p.m. Animal Planet): This special looks at four predators — the cheetah, great white shark, crocodile and falcon — in an attempt to understand how they accomplish their extraordinary killing feats.
••“Paris Hilton’s British Best Friend” (9 p.m. on TV Guide Network): Paris Hilton puts 12 hopeful Brits through the test of true friendship. In the end, one lucky contestant will get to walk the red carpet with Paris on their arm.
••”NCIS” (7 p.m. on CBS): The death of a Navy officer leads Gibbs and the team into the world of high-priced call girls, relying on D.C. Madam Holly Snow (Dina Meyer, “Burn Notice”) to help them catch a killer. Adam Kaufman (“Without A Trace”) reprises his role as Homicide Detective Philip McCadden.
••”NCIS: Los Angeles” (8 p.m. on CBS): When an undercover operation has the NCIS team investigating a MMA gym and its fighters, Sam Hanna is tasked with donning gloves and entering the cage for a one-on-one fight. Making special giest appearances are MMA fighters Dan Henderson, Frank Shamrock, Gilbert Melendez, Josh Thomson, KJ Noons and Cung Le.
••”NOVA” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): ‘‘Hunting the Edge of Space” looks at how the telescope has evolved from the simple spyglass used by Galileo into sometimes enormous pieces of equipment perched on mountains, orbiting the Earth and even circling other planets.
••”Parenthood” (9 p.m. on NBC): Kristina’s worrying affects her six life, while Crosby tries to tell his parents he has a son. Minka Kelly (“Friday Night Lights”) and Jason Ritter (“Joan of Arcadia”) guest star.
••”Southland” (9 p.m. on TNT): In the Season 2 finale, John gets an unexpected request from his ex-wife just as he, Ben and Chickie are sent out as part of a maximum deployment to capture the “Canyon Rapist,” a perp who has been impersonating a cop.
••”Storm Stories” (7 p.m. on The Weather Channel): After a quiet start to the 2009 tornado season, an EF-2 touches down in rural Nebraska June 17. As it moves toward the city of Aurora, meteorologists track the storm and warn residents to take shelter. But for some residents, it takes seeing storm chasers parked outside their home to begin a frantic run for cover.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 7, 2010
••”Accidentally on Purpose” (7:30 p.m. on CBS): Zack is upset when Billie hires a baby nurse without consulting him. Meanwhile, Davis and Ryan are faced with a difficult choice when they learn surprising news about the nurse. Olivia Munn (“Iron Man 2″) guest stars as Nicole, Billie and Zack’s sexy nurse.
••”America’s Next Top Model” (7 p.m. on CW): The girls pose with comedian Ross Mathews (“The Tonight Show”) before heading to New York City’s garment district to be completely transformed in faux fashion wardrobe.
••”Being Erica” (9 p.m. on SoapNet): In the Season 2 finale, Erica’s perfect life is turned upside down when she finally makes some big decisions. Dr. Tom adds a major twist to her therapy that opens up a world of possibilities.
••”The Buddha” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): Richard Gere (“Amelia”) narrates this documentary about the life of the Buddha, an Indian sage who gained enlightenment as he sat under a fig tree. The Buddha never claimed to be God or his emissary on Earth. He said only that he was a human who had found a kind of serenity that others could find, too.
••”Cougar Town” (8:30 p.m. on ABC): Bobby and Jules are at an impasse over letting Travis go to a party where he’ll undoubtedly be drinking, Ellie is determined to triumph as alpha dog over Grayson, and Laurie meets Smith’s dad (Barry Bostwick, “Spin City”).
••”Criminal Minds” (8 p.m. on CBS): The Behavioral Analysis Unit travels to San Francisco to investigate the murders of several homeless men and teams up with a separate group of BAU operatives who are working another case they think is connected. Forest Whitaker (“Last King of Scotland”) guest stars as Special Agent Sam Cooper, and Mary Steenburgen (“Joan of Arcadia”) guest stars as Director Beth Griffith.
••”CSI: NY” (9 p.m. on CBS): When a woman linked to an unsolved murder case is found dead, the evidence and autopsy both suggest a suicide. But Stella is unconvinced and risks her life to pursue the case. Madchen Amick (“My Own Worst Enemy”) guest stars.
••”In Plain Sight” (9 p.m. on USA Network): The new episode ‘‘When Mary Met Marshall” flashes back to the day Mary joined WitSec. Prompting those memories is a present-day break-in that threatens the security of the first witnesses Mary and Marshall handled together. Allison Janney (“The West Wing”), Tess Harper (“Crash”) and Josh Cooke (“Big Day”) guest star.
••”Modern Family” (8 p.m. on ABC): Phil and Claire break from their traditional Valentine’s Day dinner date and plan a little “role play” excursion. Meanwhile, Jay and Gloria’s ideas of romance clash when he takes her to a comedy show. David Brenner (“The Hollywood Squares”) guest stars as himself.
••”The Oprah Winfrey Show” (4 p.m. on KOCO-5): The cast of “Glee” visits Oprah for an hour of behind-the-scenes secrets, revealing interviews, unseen backstage moments and a show-stopping performance.
••”Shear Genius” (9 p.m. on Bravo): Season 3 comes to a close when the final three stylists team up with fashion designer Henry Duarte for their biggest challenge yet.They’ll each style six models for a fashion show where the designer will debut Duarte’s new line of edgy rock-and-roll inspired clothing.
••”Top Chef Masters” (10 p.m. on Bravo): World-renowned chefs revert to basics and compete against one another until one claims the title of Top Chef Master and a prize for the charity of his or her choice. Food journalist Kelly Choi returns as host for Season 2, and back on the Critics’ Table are restaurant critics Gael Greene and Jay Rayner and culinary expert James Oseland.
••”Ugly Betty” (9:01 p.m. om ABC): As Hilda’s wedding day approaches, Betty asks Daniel to be her plus-one, Ignacio invites Elena, and Amanda is set on fixing up Marc with her new client, soap opera star Spencer Cannon (Bryan Batt, “Mad Men”).
THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2010
••”Big Money in the Middle East” (7 p.m. on CNBC): CNBC correspondent Erin Burnett gathers an exclusive panel of billionaires betting big on the region to talk opportunity and, for the first time, the big risks of putting money in the Middle East. Joining Burnett is the richest man in Egypt and all of Africa. The other? A self-made American billionaire.
••”Bones” (7 p.m. on Fox): Star David Boreanaz (Seeley Booth) directs the series’ 100th episode, which recounts the first time Booth and Brennan worked together on a case. This look back at their beginnings has a profound effect on them and may change their feelings for each other forever. The episode also provides a glimpse at the other Jeffersonian team members to see how their relationships began and the influence they have had on each other’s lives.
••”CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (8 p.m. on CBS): Langston’s investigation into the murder of a family brings him one step closer to catching the Dr. Jekyll serial killer as the CSI team traces the perp to the house next door to the murder site.
••”Grey’s Anatomy” (8 p.m. on ABC): Mark flies Addison to Seattle to help with a difficult procedure on his pregnant daughter, Sloan, Owen questions Teddy’s motives when she assigns Cristina the lead on a complicated surgery, and Derek’s suspicions are raised when the Chief recruits Meredith to assist with a high profile operation. Kate Walsh (“Private Practice”) and Kim Raver (“Lipstick Jungle”) guest star.
••”LisaRaye: The Real McCoy” (8 p.m. on TV One): This new reality series follows LisaRaye (“All of Us” and former First Lady of the Turks and Caicos) as she works to fully re-establish her critically acclaimed acting career, while balancing a far-flung and complex personal life.
••“The Marriage Ref” (9 p.m. on NBC): Celebrity panelists Tracy Morgan (“30 Rock”), Kathy Griffin (“My Life on the D-List”) and Nathan Lane (“The Producers”) offer their wit, wisdom and unique opinions to couples in marital tiffs.
••”The Mentalist” (9 p.m. on CBS): When a “Jane Doe” with amnesia and covered in blood steps in front of Cho and Van Pelt’s car, Patrick Jane must use all of his skills to discover who she is, her last location and why she lost her memory. Aunjanue Ellis (“True Blood”) returns as the CBI’s new boss, Special Agent Madeleine Hightower.
••”Parks and Recreation” (7:30 p.m. on NBC): Leslie plays host to the Parks and Recreation department from Pawnee’s sister city, Boraqua, Venezuela, and is shocked at the cultural differences. Fred Armisen (“Saturday Night Live”) guest stars.
••”Private Chefs of Beverly Hills” (9 p.m. on Food Network): This new series follows six gifted cooks from Big City Chefs, Beverly Hills’ premiere private chef placement agency. On-call 24/7, the chefs must cater to the whims of their over-the-top and eccentric clientele in Los Angeles’ most posh neighborhood.
••”Stateline” (8:30 p.m. on OETA-13): This installment of OETA’s award-winning documentary series takes a look back at prohibition. Oklahoma had been officially dry since statehood in 1907. But that hadn’t kept anyone from having a cocktail. Liquor was available by free delivery 24 hours a day from bootleggers. And cocktails and wine were served at banquets and in clubs, restaurants and hotels.
••”Supernatural” (8 p.m. on CW): Sam and Dean are outnumbered by demons, but are saved at the last minute by Rob (Michael Shanks, “Smallville”) and his townspeople, who are aware of the Apocalypse, and have been training to fight and kill demons.
FRIDAY, APRIL 9, 2010
••”The Awkward Comedy Show” (11 p.m. on Comedy Central): This stand-up special features five quirky and eclectic comedians — Hannibal Buress, Eric Andre, Baron Vaughn, Marina Franklin and Victor Varnado — who uncover humor in a world full of stereotypes.
••”Danger Coast” (8:30 p.m. on CMT): This new series follows the dramatic exploits of Miami-Dade County’s elite waterborne Marine Operations Bureau as they engage in unexpected, life-saving activities that no training or experience could prepare them for. These heroes fight against overwhelming odds to selflessly protect the public at large, while risking their own lives.
••”Garage Mahal” (8 p.m. on DIY Network): In the Season 2 premiere, host Bill Goldberg (“The Longest Yard”) and the DIY team transform the the messy garage of late-night talk show host Jay Leno. In six days, they turn Leno’s unruly six-car, three room space into a showcase, complete with technology out of a James Bond film.
••”Gator 911″ (8 p.m. on CMT): Conservationist Gary Saurage, the owner of Texas adventure park Gator Country, goes on the hunt for his park’s namesake reptiles. Rescuing gators from unusual and precarious places, he collects them and brings them to a new and safe home.
••”Live From Abbey Road” (7 p.m. on Sundance): Musical artists discussing their work and performing at London’s Abbey Road Studios are Lyle Lovett, Doves and Noisettes.
••”The Message” (9 p.m. on TLC): In this special. private investigator Christopher Bauer gives three families the chance to send heartfelt messages to some they are desperate to find.
••”Miami Medical” (9 p.m. on CBS): One member of the team learns a secret about Dr. Proctor’s past while treating the victims of a hotel shooting. Meanwhile, Dr. Deleo is offered a prestigious career move. Paul McCrane (“ER”) directed this episode. Michael O’Neill (“The West Wing,” “The Unit”) guest stars as orthopedic surgeon Dr. Bruce Kaye.
••”Smallville” (7 p.m. on CW): Tess creates an elaborate hoax in order to kidnap Green Arrow, and she delivers him to Amanda Waller (Pam Grier, “The L Word”), who tells him that that the government is recruiting him to serve his country.
SATURDAY, APRIL 10, 2010
••”24/7 Mayweather/Mosley” (9 p.m. on HBO): This four-episode, all-access series follows two of boxing’s top performers – Floyd Mayweather and Shane Mosley – as they prepare for their May 1 welterweight pay-per-view showdown in Las Vegas. This is Mayweather’s fourth time on “24/7,” which previously chronicled his relationship with father Floyd Sr. and uncle and trainer Roger.
••”Discover Oklahoma” (6:30 p.m. on KWTV-9): This installments of the locally-produced series spotlights the world’s largtest cattle auction that is held in Oklahoma City, a Duncan meat market and Perryman Ranch in Jenks.
••”Mega Piranha” (8 p.m. on Syfy): Barry Williams (“The Brady Bunch”), Tiffany (1980s singing sensation) and Paul Logan (“Megafault”) star in this new movie about a group who form an alliance to stop a mutant strain of giant ferocious piranhas that have escaped from the Amazon and are eating their way to Florida.
••”Patricia Cornwell’s At Risk” (8 p.m. on Lifetime): In this TV adaptation of crime writer Patricia Cornwell’s book, Daniel Sunjata (“Rescue Me”) and Andie MacDowell star as Massachusetts state investigator Win Garano and Boston district attorney Monique Lamont. The latter plans to launch a bold new anti-crime initiative by introducing new DNA evidence into a cold-case murder, putting herself and Garano in danger.
••“Renovation Realities” (8 p.m. on DIY): When Josh Hissong, an accomplished kitchen designer living in Spokane, Wash., bought his dream fixer-upper home, he decided to start his renovations in the kitchen. Setbacks ranging from broken windows to using the only kitchen floor-plan to start a fire when the power goes out plague this project from the very beginning.
••”Shots That Made History at the Masters” (1:30 p.m. on CBS): Hosted by CBS Sports’ Jim Nantz, this special looks back at the strokes of genius by some of the game’s greatest players that have thrilled golf fans for the last 75 years. Highlights include Gene Sarazen’s double eagle in 1935, Jack Nicklaus’s birdie on hole No. 16 in 1975 and Tiger Woods’ chip-in on hole No. 16 in 2005.
–Penny TV
Top 30 Guest Stars on TV Shows airing March 21-27, 2010
Friday is when The Oklahoman posts a list of the top guest stars (and all the premieres and finales, see separate blog) appearing on TV next week.
And here are 30 (or more) celebrities making special TV appearances the week of March 21.
If a well-known personality was missed, feel free to add his or her name in the comments section to help make this list a complete and accurate source for TV watchers everywhere.
NOTE: Times are CST (for EST, add one hour)
GUEST STARS
••John Barrowman (“Torchwood”) on “Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Julie Benz (“Dexter”) on “Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Melinda Clarke (“The O.C.”) on “The Vampire Diaries,” 7 p.m. Thursday on CW.
••Sheryl Crow (Grammy winner) on “Cougar Town,” 8:30 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Dana Delany (“Desperate Housewives”) on “Castle,” 9:01 p.m. Monday on ABC.
••Celine Dion (“Big Sky”) on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” 7 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Anne Dudek (“Big Love”) on “How I Met Your Mother,” 7 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Francis Fisher (“Titanic”) on “Two and a Half Men,” 8 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Patrick Gallagher (“Glee”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Tricia Helfer (“Battlestar Galactica”) on “Two and a Half Men,” 8 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Jonas Brothers(“Jonas”) on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” 7 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Lainie Kazan (“My Big Fat Greek Wedding”) on “Til Death,” 6:30 p.m. Sunday on Fox.
••Chris Thomas King (“Ray”) on “Imagination Movers,” 8:30 a.m. Friday on Disney.
••Mary Stuart Masterson (“Kate Brasher”) on “Mercy,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on NBC.
••Joel David Moore (“Avatar”) on “Bones,” 7 p.m. Thursday on Fox.
••Glenn Morshower (“24″) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Tim “Timbaland Mosley (“Boogie”) on “FlashForward,” 7 p.m. Thursday on ABC.
••Donna Murphy (“Trust Me”) on “Ugly Betty,” 9:01 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Kathy Najimy (“Sister Act”) on “Ugly Betty,” 9:01 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Chazz Palminteri (“The Usual Suspects”) on “Modern Family,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Grace Park (“Battlestar Galactica”) on “Human Target,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on Fox.
••Robert Patrick (“The Unit”) on “NCIS,” 7 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Pauley Perrette (“NCIS”) on “NCIS: Los Angeles,” 8 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Laura Prepon (“That ’70s Show”) on “How I Met Your Mother,” 7 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Nelly (“The Longest Yard”) on “CSI: NY,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Gavin Rossdale (“Little Black Book”) on “Criminal Minds,” 8 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Amy Sedaris (“Strangers With Candy”) on “The Middle,” 7:30 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Michael Sheen (“The Twilight Saga: New Moon”) on “Top Gear,” 7 p.m. Monday on BBC America.
••Christian Slater (“The Forgotten”) on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” 7 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Skeet Ulrich (“Jericho”) on “CSI: NY,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Greg Vaughan (“General Hospital”) on “90210,” 7 p.m. Tuesday on CW.
••Rumer Willis (“Sorority Row”) on “90210,” 7 p.m. Tuesday on CW.
Pictured above: COUGAR TOWN – “Everything Man” – Grayson introduces girlfriend Sara to Jules and company, on ABC’s “Cougar Town,” WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31. Jules and Sara hit it off, but when Grayson is overly attentive to his new girl, Jules warns him to back off before Sara pulls away. Meanwhile, Jules’ perfect new bathroom — complete with a “talking toilet” — becomes the main attraction in her home; and Grayson finds inspiration for a new song with a little help from Sara. (ABC/MITCH HADDAD)
SHERYL CROW, JOSH HOPKINS
Top 55 TV Programs for March 21-27, 2010
Sunday’s
Oklahoman, which includes TV Week, hits the newsstands in the Oklahoma City area on Saturday afternoon. And it arrives at the doorstep (or hopefully nearby) early Sunday morning.
But for those who can’t wait to begin planning the upcoming week around the best TV has to offer, here is a sneak peek at programs worth watching the week of March 21:
NOTE: Times are CST (for EST, add one hour)
SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2010
••”BBC Earth” (2 p.m. on BBC America): Sir David Attenborough (“The Blue Planet”) narrates five back-to-back documentaries from “The Life of Mammals” series that introduce viewers to the most diverse group of animals on Earth and tells their epic tale of survival.
••”Breaking Bad” (9 p.m. on AMC): Series star Bryan Cranston (Walt White) directs the Season 3 premiere episode titled “No Mas.” This season will explore the heightened battle and repercussions of Walt’s ruthless swirl of drugs, murder, mayhem and family.
••”Cold Case” (9 p.m. on CBS): Vera goes missing, and his team members hope that a new twist to a 2006 arson case, which Vera was secretly obsessing about, might supply some quick leads to his whereabouts. Glenn Morshower (“24″) plays a fire marshal who partnered with Vera on the arson/homicide case in 2006, and Patrick Gallagher (“Glee”) portrays a bartender at a bar where Vera’s recently become a regular. Several songs by rock group Pink Floyd will be featured throughout the episode.
••”Desperate Housewives” (8 p.m. on ABC): Angie’s ex-boyfriend, Patrick (John Barrowman, “Torchwood”), emerges after her trip to New York. Meanwhile it’s game on between Gaby and Susan, as they go to shameless lengths to top each other’s kids. Julie Benz (“Dexter”) also guest stars.
••”Dora the Explorer” (7 p.m. on Nickelodeon): In the 10th anniversary special “”Swiper the Explorer,” Swiper attempts to swipe Dora and Boots’ ball and ends up helping them with a lost baby fox. The adventure is a big success and Swiper learns to say “thank you.”
••”Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (7 p.m. on ABC): Celebrity volunteer Christian Slater (“The Forgotten”) joins the “Extreme” team in Hattiesburg, Miss., to help build a new home for an Army National Guard hero and his family. Celine Dion and the Jonas Brothers also make special guest appearances.
••”Gene Simmons Family Jewels” (8 p.m. on A&E): Season 5 begins with a terrifying moment for rock star Gene Simmons and his non-traditional family. Shannon has a health scare that makes the family rally and Gene is caught between two worlds – being there for the mother of his two children and being on tour with KISS.
••”Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Get a sneak peak at this new series in which chef Jamie Oliver starts a new cooking initiate that he hopes will change the way Americans eat. The series moves into its regular time period at 8 p.m. Friday, March 26.
••”Kirstie Alley’s Big Life” (9 p.m. on A&E): This new reality series chronicles the life of Golden Globe and two-time Emmy winner Kirstie Alley from her journey with her weight loss program to her life as a single mother trying to raise two normal teenagers in the Hollywood spotlight.
••”Life” (7 p.m. on Discovery): Oprah Winfrey narrates this 11-part wildlife series. The first episode titled “Challenges of Life” spotlights the ways in which animals have adapted to secure the food they need to survive.
••”The Pacific” (8 p.m. on HBO): Part 2 in this 10-part series finds Basilone (Jon Seda) and the 7th Marines arriving on Guadalcanal to reinforce Leckie (James Badge Dale) and the rest of the 1st Marine Division as they continue to defend the crucial airstrip.
••”Thin Ice” (6 p.m. on ABC): This competition for the world’s top professional figure skaters concludes. Hosts Elisabeth Hasselbeck (“The View”) and Kurt Browning (Canadian skating champion) announce the winners of the event decided by viewer votes (50 percent) and a panel of judges.
••“Til Death” (6:30 p.m. on Fox): When Joy’s mother (Lainie Kazan, “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”) pays her daughter a visit, she drives Joy up the wall with her constant criticism, and Eddie makes a valiant attempt to ease the tension.
MONDAY MARCH 22, 2010
••”Be Good Johnny Weir” (9:30 p.m. on Sundance Channel): The final installment of this eight-part documentary series culminates with the U.S. Men’s National Figure Skating Championships in January, as Johnny Weir attempts to secure what may be his last chance at a place on the Olympic team.
••”The Big Sleep” (7 p.m. on TCM): This 1946 film stars Humphrey Bogart as Raymond Chandler’s classic detective Philip Marlowe, who becomes involved with a socialite, played by Lauren Bacall. Former NBA player Kareem Abdul-Jabbar discusses the film with TCM host Robert Osborne during breaks. He also shares his thoughts on 1941′s “The Maltese Falcon” (9 p.m.), 1976′s “The Shootist” (11 p.m.) and 1939′s “Stagecoach” (1 a.m.).
••”Castle” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): In this two-part episode that concludes March 29, Dana Delany (“Desperate Housewives”) guest stars as Federal Agent Jordan Shaw, an insightful and accomplished Federal Investigator who teams with Richard Castle and Detective Beckett to hunt down an elusive serial killer.
••”Dancing With the Stars” (7 p.m. on ABC): A new cast of celebrities and their professional dance partners hit the floor for with two hours of dancing. Season 10 contenders are Buzz Aldrin, Pamela Anderson, Erin Andrews, Shannen Doherty, Kate Gosselin, Evan Lysacek, Niecy Nash, Chad Ochocinco, Jake Pavelka, Nicole Scherzinger and Aiden Turner.
••”CSI: Miami” (9 p.m. on CBS): Horatio’s son, Kyle, returns from combat and promptly turns to his father for help in solving a murder.
••”Hardwood” (7 p.m. on Documentary Channel): This documentary follows the journey of Hubert Davis, the son of former Harlem Globetrotter Mel Davis, as he sets out to answer questions about his life. He uses personal interviews, archival footage and home movies to delve into his father’s past in the hope of finding a new direction for his own.
••”How I Met Your Mother” (7 p.m. on CBS): When Ted ruins Lily’s birthday dinner celebration by bringing a date, Lily goes to great lengths to keep her out of the traditional photo she takes every year of the gang. Laura Prepon (“That ’70s Show”) returns as Karen, Ted’s ex-girlfriend and Anne Dudek (“Big Love”) guest stars as Natalie, one of Ted’s dates.
••”Let’s Make a Deal” (2 p.m. on CBS): Monty Hall makes television history with a sixth decade of appearances on the game show. He will appear with host Wayne Brady every day this week and play one game on his own with audience members of his choosing. Hall originally teamed with writer-producer Stefan Hatos in 1963 to create “Let’s Make a Deal,” which ran until August 1986. In 1990, he returned to do the game show for another cycle.
••”Nurse Jackie” (9 p.m. on Showtime): Edie Falco returns for a second season as a New York nurse who struggles to balance her demanding job with a family and long-hidden secrets that could cost her both.
••”Rules of Engagement” (7:30 p.m. on CBS): Jeff and Audrey get into an argument when she discovers he does not believe her claim that she saw her grandmother’s ghost.
••”Three Sheets” (9 p.m. on FLN): Host Zane Lamprey travels around the world in search of the world’s best drinks and bar scenes, and then he tests out the local hangover cures the next morning. Wacky hangover remedies featured in this week-long marathon include sucker-fish boiled in wine (today), acupressure foot massage (Tuesday), “Star Trek” wedding vow renewal (Wednesday), 300-foot canyon swing (Thursday) and deep-fried pizza (Friday).
••”Top Gear” (7 p.m. on BBC America): Jeremy, Richard and James attempt to save the planet by building their own electric car out ogf TVR chassis and milk float batteries. Michael Sheen (“The Twilight Saga: New Moon”) is featured in the star in a reasonably price car segment.
••”Two and a Half Men” (8 p.m. on CBS): Charlie has a return engagement with Chelsea’s best friend, while Alan has an unexpected effect on a new female patient. Tricia Helfer (“Battlestar Galactica”) returns as Chelsea’s best friend and Francis Fisher (“Titanic”) guest stars as Alan’s chiropractic patient.
••”United States of Tara” (9:30 p.m. on Showtime): Toni Collette returns for a second season as a suburban wife and mother who struggles to handle the pressures of everyday suburban life while dealing with multiple personalities.
••”Unsung” (8 p.m. on TV One): Back with four new episosodes is this biographical series that celebrates the lives and careers of artists who, despite great talent, have been under-appreciated. Today’s installment focuses on Rose Royce, one of the top-selling groups of the 1970s. Upcoming episodes feature Sylvester (March 29), Stacy Lattisaw (April 12) and the Bar-Kays (April 19).
TUESDAY MARCH 23, 2010
••“90210” (7 p.m. on CW): Debbie confides in Kai (Greg Vaughan, “General Hospital”), her yoga instructor, about the arrival of Dixon’s birthmother. Meanwhile, Gia (Rumer Willis, “Sorority Row”) encourages Adrianna to audition for a new band.
••”The Biggest Loser” (7 p.m. on NBC): The contestants return to their hometowns to visit family and friends. But with those happy reunions come the challenge of continuing to eat right and exercise despite all the distractions and temptations away from the ranch.
••”The Good Wife” (9 p.m. on CBS): When a judge overturns a straightforward plea deal arranged by Alicia, she and Kalinda delve into the jurist’s record in an effort to understand his motivation.
••”How Much is Your Dead Body Worth?” (9 p.m. on CNBC): The medical industry’s demand for human tissue has created a lucrative black market, and some people will do anything to get their hands on your dead body. This special looks at the value of each part and uncovers the story of Michael Mastromarino, a dentist turned body snatcher, who makes millions from stolen corpses, including the body of a legendary broadcaster.
••”NCIS” (7 p.m. on CBS): A murder investigation prompts Gibbs and the team to play family counselor to his former mentor, Mike Franks, in the hopes of preventing a bloody international conflict. Robert Patrick (“The Unit”) guest stars.
••”NCIS: Los Angeles” (8 p.m. on CBS): Forensic scientist Abby Sciuto (Pauley Perrette, “NCIS”) joins the Los Angeles NCIS team when a murder case resembles the pattern for a serial killer she has been tracking.
••”V: The Arrival” (9:06 p.m. on ABC): Catch up on the visitors and their plan for the himan race in this special clip show from the first four episodes. The series returns March 30.
WEDNESDAY MARCH 24, 2010
••”Cougar Town” (8:30 p.m. on ABC): Sheryl Crow guest stars as Sara, a confident wine representative who sets her sights on Grayson. Meanwhile, when Ellie tells Jules she can’t change past a certain age, Jules is determined to prove her wrong by giving up wine for a month.
••”Criminal Minds” (8 p.m. on CBS): The Behavioral Analysis Unit follows a trail of murders that seems to align with the tour schedule of a rock star. Gavin Rossdale (“Little Black Book”) plays a Goth performer who has become lost in the frightening alter-ego that he portrays on stage — an alter-ego the BAU team suspects may be a brutal serial killer.
••”CSI: NY” (9 p.m. on CBS): After a body falls from the 59th Street Bridge, the CSI team finds a compass near the body pointing east and realizes it’s the third victim of the “Compass Killer.” Skeet Ulrich (“Jericho”) returns as the “Compass Killer.” Nelly (“The Longest Yard”) returns as an informant who helps Detective Flack.
••”Fly Girls” (8 p.m. on CW): This new series follows five Virgin America flight attendants as they jet from one glamorous location to the next, including Las Vegas, South Beach and New York City, while pursuing good times, great parties, adventure and love.
••”Great Performances” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): The “Dance in America” production titled “NY Export: Opus Jazz” is a new adaptation of Jerome Robbins’ 1958 ballet in sneakers that was filmed on location all over the five boroughs of New York. The 16 characters are updated for modern times, but the story still embodies the same theme of being young in the Big Apple.
••“Human Target” (7 p.m. on Fox): Chance is knocked out when he meets the beautiful daughter of a former heavyweight champ in Vienna and must jump in the ring to protect a prize fighter on the run from a ruthless businessman. Grace Park (“Battlestar Galactica”) guest stars.
••”Mercy” (7 p.m. on NBC): Veronia begins the difficult process of confronting her Post Traumatic Stress Disorder with her therapist (Mary Stuart Masterson, “Kate Brasher”). But she finds herself at odds with Dr. Sands over a patient’s treatment.
••”The Middle” (7:30 p.m. on ABC): Frankie fears her job at the car dealership may be on the line when hardcore motivational consultant Abby (Amy Sedaris, “Strangers with Candy”) is hired to whip the sales staff into shape. Meanwhile, with Frankie putting in extra hours at work, Mike has to deal with issues at home.
••”Modern Family” (7 p.m. on ABC): Mitchell plants the seed in Jay’s head that he thinks one of Jay’s old buddies (Chazz Palminteri, “The Usual Suspects”)might be secretly gay.
••”Ugly Betty” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Betty is thrilled to get her braces off, courtesy of her chatty new orthodontist, Dr. Frankel (Kathy Najimy, “Sister Act”). But before this can happen, she gets knocked unconscious at a photo shoot of the “Million Dollar Bra” at the Guggenheim, spinning her into a dream sequence. Donna Murphy (“Trust Me”) also guest stars.
THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2010
••“Bones” (7 p.m. on Fox): Hodgins, Sweets and Jeffersonian intern Colin Fischer (Joel David Moore, “Avatar”) take turns camping out for tickets to a movie premiere in “The Gamer in the Grease.”
••”FlashForward” (7 p.m. on ABC): Aaron delves deeper into why the black-ops Jericho unit is after his daughter and Mark continues to question Lloyd about a phone conversation that took place during their flashforwards. Tim “Timbaland Mosley (“Boogie”) guest stars.
••”The Real Housewives of New York City” (9 p.m. on Bravo): At a show during New York Fashion Week, LuAnn makes a snide remark to Bethenny, who launches into a verbal attack. Later, Bethenny hosts an event for a designer, and both Alex and Kelly show up to support her.
••”The Tiger Next Door” (8 p.m. on Animal Planet): This special spotlights a man in Indiana who has been keeping, breeding and selling Bengal tigetrs from his backyard for more than 15 years. He claims to know exactly what they are thinking by the look in their eyes.
••“The Vampire Diaries” (7 p.m. on CW): Matt and Caroline are surprised by the sudden reappearance of Matt’s mother Kelly (Melinda Clarke, “The O.C.”).
FRIDAY, MARCH 26, 2010
••”Chandon Pictures” (8 p.m. on Sundance Channel): This Australian comedy series follows a deluded documentary filmmaker, whose portfolio doesnt extend much beyond weddings and children’s birthday parties. But with the help of his loyal cameraman and producer, he manages to twist each client’s brief to match his creative dreams of making “films that matter.”
••”Harriet the Spy: Blog Wars” (7 p.m. on Disney): Based on the popular books by Louise Fitzhugh, this movie is a contemporary twist on the iconic character as Harriet “The Spy” Welsch (Jennifer Stone, “Wizards of Waverly Place”) vies to become the official blogger of her high school class.
••”Imagination Movers” (8:30 a.m. on Disney): The Movers help famed blues musician T-Bone Crosby when, after years of writing songs, he seems to be out of ideas. Grammy Award-winning blues artist and actor Chris Thomas King (“Ray”) guest stars.
••”Live From Abbey Road” (7 p.m. on Sundance): Musical artists discussing their work and performing at London’s Abbey Road Studios are Counting Crows, Melody GArdot and Hockey.
••”Top Yam: The Louisiana Yambilee Queen Pageant” (9 p.m.on TLC): Take a behind-the-scenes look at this five-day festival in Opelousas, La. Every year, the town gathers to celebrate their main crop, the yam, by holding yam cook-offs, a Yam-i-mal contest, a carnival and the pageant featuring girls competing for $500 and the opportunity to be the community’s spokesperson.
••”Who Do You Think You Are?” (7 p.m. on NBC): Matthew Broderick (“The Producers”) discovers that his grandmother, Mary Martindale, was a descendant from a Civil War hero, Robert Martindale, who fought at Gettysburg and joined the historic march through Georgia.
SATURDAY, MARCH 27, 2010
••”Believe in Oklahoma: Gone Country” (6:30 p.m. on KOCO-5): This special features music and interviews with several of the state’s top country music stars, including Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire, Black Shelton, Shauna Russell and Miranda Lambert.
••”Nickelodeon’s 23rd Annual Kids’ Choice Awards” (7 p.m. on Nickelodeon): Kevin James (“The King of Queens”) hosts the event live from UCLA’s Pauley Pavilion. The slime will flow for the no-holds-barred kudo/mess-fest on the night kids rule and get to honor their favorites from the worlds of film, music, sports and television. First time Kids’ Choice nominees President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama will compete in the new cutest couple category.
••”Paranormal Court” (9 p.m. on TLC): This special follows Robert Hansen, a renowned psychic medium who steps in to help families get the answers they need because the death of a loved one has left them with questions and a lack of closure. It Hansen’s psychic abilities in solving disputes when two parties come together and agree to be bound by the ruling enlisted from the other side.
••“Victorious” (8:30 p.m. on Nickelodeon): This new comedy series follows Tori Vega (Victoria Justice, “Spectacular!”) as she unexpectedly finds herself navigating life at an elite performing arts high school. It features an ensemble cast of teens who act, sing, dance and perform to original music. The series will move into its regular 7 p.m. Sunday timeslot on April 11.
–Penny TV
Top 30 Guest Stars on TV Shows airing March 14-20, 2010
Friday is when The Oklahoman posts a list of the top guest stars (and all the premieres and finales, see separate blog) appearing on TV next week.
And here are 30 (or more) celebrities making special TV appearances the week of March 14.
If a well-known personality was missed, feel free to add his or her name in the comments section to help make this list a complete and accurate source for TV watchers everywhere.
NOTE: Times are CST (for EST, add one hour)
GUEST STARS
••Jim Abele (“24”) on “Greek,” 9 p.m. Monday on ABC Family.
••Jason Alexander (“Seinfeld”) on “The Marriage Ref,” 9 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Sharif Atkins (“ER”) on “CSI: Miami,” 9 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Eric Bana (“Hulk”) on “Top Gear,” 7 p.m. Monday on BBC America.
••Julie Benz (“Dexter”) on “Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Cedric The Entertainer on “The Marriage Ref,” 9 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Corbin Bernsen (“Psych”) on “The New Adventures of Old Christine,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Sarah Carter (“Shark”) on “CSI: NY,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Alan Cumming (“The L Word”) on “The Good Wife,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Minnie Driver (“The Riches”) on “Modern Family,” 8 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Robert Gant (“Queer as Folk”) on “CSI: Miami,” 9 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Gilbert Gottfried (“Greg the Bunny”) on “Til Death,” 6 p.m. Sunday on Fox.
••Sticky Fingaz Jones (“Platinum”) on “NCIS: Los Angeles,” 8 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Rachael Harris (“The Hangover”) on “Gary Unmarried,” 7:30 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Carol Kane (“American Dreamer”) on “Ugly Betty,” 9:01 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Heidi Klum (“Project Runway”) on “Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Sugar Ray Leonard (boxer) on “Antonio Treatment,” 10 p.m. Sunday on HGTV.
••Mario Lopez (“Nip/Tuck”) on “Antonio Treatment,” 10 p.m. Sunday on HGTV.
••Kelly Lynch (“The L Word”) on “90210,” 7 p.m. Tuesday on CW.
••Alyssa Milano (“Charmed”) on “Castle,” 9 p.m. Monday on ABC.
••Shanna Moakler (“Law & Order”) on “NCIS,” 7 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Diane Neal (“Law & Order”) on “NCIS,” 7 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Emily Osment (“Hannah Montana”) on “Kick Buttowski — Suburban Daredevil,” 7:30 a.m. Saturday on Disney XD.
••Robert Patrick (“Terminator 2: Judgement Day”) on “Chuck,” 7 p.m. Monday on NBC.
••Roddy Piper (“The Portal”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Martha Plimpton (“Parenthood”) on “The Good Wife,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Paulina Porizkova (“As the World Turns”) on “Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Andy Samberg (“Saturday Night Live”) on “Parks and Recreation,” 7:30 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Allison Scagliotti (“Warehouse 13″) on “Destination Truth,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on Syfy.
••Lara Spencer (“Entertainment Tonight”) on “Gary Unmarried,” 7:30 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Martha Stewart (“Martha”) on “The Marriage Ref,” 9 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Alan Thicke (“Growing Pains”) on “How I Met Your Mother,” 7 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Jay Thomas (“Murphy Brown”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Lea Thompson (“Back to the Future”) on “Greek,” 9 p.m. Monday on ABC Family.
••Skeet Ulrich (“Jericho”) on “CSI: NY,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Ralph Waite (“The Waltons”) on “Bones,” 7 p.m. Thursday on Fox.
••Kris Williams (“Ghost Hunters”) on “Destination Truth,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on Syfy.
Pictured above: GREEK – “Camp Buy Me Love” – Casey and Cappie get a surprise visit from Cappie’s parents, April (Lea Thompson) and Tobias (Jim Abele) – who proceed to invite the couple to join them on a camping trip. (ABC FAMILY/ADAM LARKEY) SCOTT MICHAEL FOSTER, LEA THOMPSON, JIM ABELE
TV Premieres and Finales airing March 14-20, 2010
Friday is when The
Oklahoman posts a list of all the premieres and finales (and all the guest stars, see separate blog) coming up on TV next week.
And here are the shows beginning and ending the week of March 14.
If one was missed, the network did not issue a press release about it. But feel free to add it in the comments section to help make this list a complete and accurate source for TV watchers everywhere.
NOTE: Times are CST (for EST, add one hour)
BEGINNINGS
••”Minute to Win It,” 6 p.m. Sunday on NBC (series premiere).
••”Sonny With a Chance,” 7 p.m. Sunday on Disney (second-season premiere).
••”The Celebrity Apprentice,” 8 p.m. Sunday on NBC (third-season premiere).
••”The Pacific,” 8 p.m. Sunday on HBO (first installment of 10-part miniseries).
••”Ultimate Recipe Showdown,” 8 p.m. Sunday on Food Network (third-season premiere).
••”Sons of Tucson,” 8:30 p.m. Sunday on Fox (series premiere).
••”America’s Worst Driver,” 9 p.m. Sunday on Travel Channel (series premiere).
••”Antonio Treatment,” 9 p.m. Sunday on HGTV (series premiere).
••”Fatal Attraction,” 9 p.m. Sunday on Animal Planet (first installmne of 3-part miniseries)
••”Zeke and Luther,” 6:30 p.m. Monday on Disney XD (second-season premiere).
••”Top Gear,” 7 p.m. Monday on BBC America (14th-season premiere).
••”Home Rules,” 8 p.m. Monday on HGTV (series premiere).
••”Jessica Simpson’s The Price of Beauty,” 9 p.m. Monday on VH1 (series premiere).
••”Transform Me,” 9:30 p.m. Monday on VH1 (series premiere).
••”Justified,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on FX (series premiere).
••“Love Games: Bad Girls Need Love Too,” 10 p.m. Tuesday on Oxygen (series premiere).
••”Marriage Under Construction,” 10 p.m. Tuesday on HGTV (series premiere).
••”Addicted,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on TLC (series premiere).
••“South Park,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on Comedy Central (14th-season premiere).
••”Ugly Americans,” 9:30 p.m. Wednesday on Comedy Central (series premiere).
••“FlashForward,” 7 p.m. Thursday on ABC (series returns).
••“My First Sale,” 7:30 p.m. Thursday on HGTV (series premiere).
••“Selling New York,” 8 p.m. Thursday on HGTV (series premiere).
••”Tough as Nails,” 8:30 p.m. Thursday on HGTV (series premiere).
ENDINGS
••”Hannah Montana,” 6:30 p.m. Sunday on Disney (third-season finale).
••“Ultimate Power Builders,” 7 p.m. Sunday on Planet Green (first-season finale).
••“Scrubs,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on ABC (ninth-season finale).
••“Archer,” 9 p.m. Thursday on FX (first-season finale).
Pictured above: MINUTE TO WIN IT — Season 1– Pictured: (l-r) Lauren Gilmore, Guy Fieri, Alli Wang — Photo by: Chris Haston/NBC
Top 55 TV Programs for March 14-20, 2010
Sunday’s Oklahoman, which includes TV Week, hits the newsstands in the Oklahoma City area on Saturday afternoon. And it arrives at the doorstep (or hopefully nearby) early Sunday morning.
But for those who can’t wait to begin planning the upcoming week around the best TV has to offer, here is a sneak peek at programs worth watching the week of March 14:
NOTE: Times are CST (for EST, add one hour)
SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2010
••”30 for 30″ (8 p.m. on ESPN): The new documentary ‘‘Winning Time: Reggie Miller vs. The New York Knicks” explores how Reggie Miller of the Indiana Pacers became the most despised opponent of the New YorkKnicks.
••”America’s Worst Driver” (9 p.m. on Travel Channel): In this new series, bad drivers in eight cities compete in various driving challenges to identify the worst local driver. The participant earning the distinction of the worst from each city will watch as their car is destroyed before moving on to the finale.
••”Antonio Treatment” (9 p.m. on HGTV): ‘‘HGTV Design Star” Sesaon 4 winner Antonio Ballatore helps transform lackluster homes, offices, restaurants, stores, recording studios and more into radically original-yet functional-custom creations. In the second hour of the series premiere, he helps Mario Lopez (“Nip/Tuck”) upgrade his home and office gyms from makeshift spaces into a boxer’s paradise. He also receives a visit from boxing great Sugar Ray Leonard.
••”The Celebrity Apprentice” (8 p.m. on NBC): In the two-hour Season 3 premiere, Donald Trump divides 14 celebrities into men versus women and instructs them to choose a team name. Their first task is running a New York City diner. The celebrities are Darryl Strawberry, Cyndi Lauper, Bret Michaels, Sharon Osbourne, Michael Johnson, Holly Robinson Peete, Bill Goldberg, Carol Leifer, Sinbad, Summer Sanders, Rod Blagojevich, Maria Kanellis, Curtis Stone and Selita Ebanks.
••”Cold Case” (9 p.m. on CBS): The team reopens the case of a dock worker who was moonlighting as an indy-circuit wrestler until he was shot dead in 1986, and Valens secretly looks into a lead on the man who mugged and raped his mother. Roddy Piper (“The Portal”) and Jay Thomas (“Murphy Brown”) guest star.
••”The Cutting Edge: Fire & Ice” (7 p.m. on ABC Family): Figure skater Alexandra ‘‘Alex” Delgado (Francia Raisa), who gave up competing in favor of teaching after her partner became injured, agrees to team up with banned speed skater James McKinsey (Brendan Fehr, ‘‘Roswell”). But their relationship on and off the ice heats up as they get closer to competition.
••”Desperate Housewives” (8 p.m. on ABC): Gaby and Angie head to New York in search of Danny and Ana. While in the Big Apple, a chance encounter with supermodels Heidi Klum and Paulina Porizkova leads Gaby to an unexpected revelation about herself. Julie Benz (“Dexter”) also guest stars.
••”Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (7 p.m. on ABC): The design team stops in Slaughterville, Okla., to help build a home for Brian and Audra Skaggs. Their son, Jhett, 3, survived a heart transplant at eight months of age, but the family’s moldy, rotting, termite-ridden home poses serious risks to his weakened immune system. Helping with the build are celebrity guest designer Jillian Harris (“The Bachelorette”), Xzibit (“Hoodwinked!”), Ideal Homes of Norman and almost 2,000 volunteers.
••”Fatal Attractions” (9 p.m. on Animal Planet): This three-part miniseries gets inside the minds of people who own venomous reptiles, deadly big cats and chimpanzees to see what drives their obsessions. While their love, admiration and intrigue is genuine, these exotic pet owners often ignore the fact that their choice of a pet could cost them, innocent bystanders or their beloved pets their lives. It kicks off with the reptile episode, followed by big cats (March 21) and chimpanzees (March 28).
••”Hannah Montana” (6:30 p.m. on Disney): In the third-season finale, Miley Stewart faces the biggest decision of her life – whether to say goodbye to her life in Malibu or to listen to her heart and return to her Crowley Corners ranch and beloved horse Blue Jeans in Tennessee. Meanwhile, Jackson moves into his own apartment, Lilly is contemplating what to do after her mom accepts a job in Atlanta and Oliver must decide whether to stay with his two best friends or go on the road to pursue his fledgling music career.
••”Killer Aliens” (7 p.m. on Animal Planet): Florida is being overrun by lethal Burmese pythons, feral hogs, Nile monitor lizards and Gambian rats the size of cats. With no natural predators, their populations are spreading disease, destroying vegetation and crops, preying on native species and harming humans.
••”Minute to Win It” (6 p.m. on NBC): Guy Fieri hosts this new game show that leads competitors through a series of challenges using everyday household items. Each game has a 60-second time limit, and 10 have to be completed to win $1 million.
••“National Geographic Magazine’s Top Photos of the Year” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): This special counts down the Top 10 photos from the magazine and reveals the stories behind the photographs.
••”The Pacific” (8 p.m. on HBO): Based on the true stories of three World War II Marines, this 10-part miniseries follows them from their first battle with the Japanese on Guadalcanal to their return home. In the aftermath of Pearl Harbor. Sgt. John Basilone (Jon Seda) departs for the Pacific, Robert Leckie (James Badge Dale) joins the Marines, and Eugene Sledge (Joe Mazzello) cannot enlist because of a heart murmur.
••”Sonny With a Chance” (7 p.m. on Disney): Season 2 follows Sonny as she lives out her dream of starring on her favorite sketch comedy show for tweens, “So Random!” in Hollywood. She tries to balance her friendships with the everyday problems that pop up at school and on set.
••”Sons of Tucson” (8:30 p.m. on Fox): This new family comedy follows three young brothers (Benjamin Stockham, Frank Dolce, Matthew Levy) who hire a charming slacker (Tyler Labine, ‘‘Reaper”) to pose as their dad when their real father is sent to prison.
••”Summit on the Summit: Kilimanjaro” (8 p.m. on MTV): This 90-minute documentary features a group of artists and activists as they attempt to reach the top of Tanzania’s Mt. Kilimanjaro to raise awareness of the global clean water crisis. Grammy-nominated musician Kenna is the mastermind behind the expedition, and he will be joined by Jessica Biel, Emile Hirsch, Lupe Fiasco, Santigold, Isabel Lucas, Elizabeth Gore, Alexandra Cousteau, Kick Kennedy and more.
••”Til Death” (6 p.m. on Fox): When Joy and Eddie meet their rather unconventional new neighbors, Eddie can’t seem to get the idea of being with a younger woman out of his head. Gilbert Gottfried (“Greg the Bunny”) guest stars.
••“Ultimate Power Builders” (7 p.m. on Planet Green): In downtown Guangzhou, China, one of the greenest structures is being built. The 71-storey building known as Pearl River Tower will rely on just wind and sunlight for its power supply.
••”Ultimate Recipe Showdown” (8 p.m. on Food Network): Guy Fieri returns for the third season of this culinary competition. Each episode pits four great home cooks against one another for a $25,000 prize. In this first of six episodes, the contestants have just 30 minutes to dish up the ultimate comfort food recipe.
••”Weather Proof” (8 p.m. on The Weather Channel): In the episode “Tornadoes: The Twisted Truth,” host Newton Wimer creates a special test to reveal just how safe a safe room really is in tornado-like conditions.
MONDAY, MARCH 15, 2010
••”Castle” (9 p.m. on ABC): When Castle and Beckett are called to a wedding to investigate the death of a bridesmaid, Castle is stunned to discover that the soon-to-be bride is his old flame, Kyra (Alyssa Milano, “Charmed”).
••“Celtic Thunder — It’s Entertainment” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): Filmed in front of a live studio audience in Toronto, this show is musical review spans six decades and reflects the romance and nostalgia of times gone by.
••”CSI: Miami” (9 p.m. on CBS): After the lab is attacked, Horatio must give in to a gunman’s bizarre request to save five hostages, including the newest CSI team member, Jesse Cardoza. Sharif Atkins (“ER”) and Robert Gant (“Queer as Folk”) guest star.
••”Chuck” (7 p.m. on NBC): Casey carries out a side mission for his old commanding officer (Robert Patrick, “Terminator 2: Judgement Day”) that leads to him committing treason.
••“Gossip Girl” (8 p.m. on CW): In this episode directed by Andrew McCarthy (“Pretty in Pink”) Rufus and Lily grow suspect of Jenny’s relationship with Damien.
••”Greek” (9 p.m. on ABC Family”): Casey and Cappie get a surprise visit from Cappie’s parents, April (Lea Thompson, “Back to the Future”) and Tobias (Jim Abele, “24″), who proceed to invite the couple to join them on a camping trip. While at first reluctant, Casey decides to go, in hopes that they may be able to encourage Cappie to choose a major and graduate with her.
••”HGTV Dream Home Giveaway” (7 p.m. on HGTV): A new, contemporary Pueblo-style home near Santa Fe, N.M., awaits the winner of the 14th annual giveaway. Host Jamie Durie (“The Outdoor Room With Jamie Durie”) will be on location, using stealth maneuvers to surprise the winner at home.
••”Home Rules” (8 p.m. on HGTV): In this new series, life coach and former WNBA player Fran Harris will explore why a frazzled family is struggling to find harmony at home. After assessing the issue, Fran will help the family establish rules to help ease the pandemonium, and a designer will help create a well-designed space that enhances the family’s life.
••”How I Met Your Mother” (7 p.m. on CBS): After Barney and Robin hit a rough patch in their relationship, Lily devises the perfect plan to break them up, calling in help from Robin’s famous friend, Alan Thicke (“Growing Pains”).
••”Jessica Simpson’s The Price of Beauty” (9 p.m. on VH1): In this new reality series, Jessica Simpson and her closest friends embark on a worldwide tour to examine what constitutes beauty in different cultures and what measures women will take in order to achieve it.
••”Top Gear” (7 p.m. on BBC America): Season 14 features a new search for the greatest driving road in the world, a novel approach to caravanning and the invention of a new motor sport…well sort of. The premiere episode also features Eric Bana (“Hulk”), who does a lap in the reasonably priced car segment.
••”Transform Me” (9:30 p.m. on VH1): Each episode of this new series follows the makeover of one woman badly in need of a transformation — on the outside and inside. They’ll be transformed by three transgender women, including Laverne Cox (“I Want to Work for Diddy”).
••”Zeke and Luther” (6:30 p.m. on Disney XD): Season 2 of the skateboarding comedy series kicks off with an episode that pays homage to a seminal sitcom moment, as Zeke attempts to jump a shark.
TUESDAY, MARCH 16, 2010
••”90210″ (7 p.m. on CW): Ryan meets free-spirited Laurel (Kelly Lynch, “The L Word”) at a bar, but soon they move to her car so they can get to know each other even better.
••“Andrew Rieu Live from Dresden” (8:30 p.m. on OETA-13): Recorded at the Semper Opera House in 2008, this is not only a concert, but also a readl wedding party. The bride and groom are part of the famous “Vienna Debutantes.”
••”Bad Girls Club Reunion Special” (9 p.m. on Oxygen): Perez Hilton (celebrity blogger) hosts this two-part reunion special that concludes March 23. The “Bad Girls” come together for the first time since living together, and mayhem ensues as Hilton instigates rivalries and plans surprise guest visits.
••”The Biggest Loser” (7 p.m. on NBC): Chef Curtis Stone (“The Celebrity Apprentice”) stops by to help host Alison Sweeney judge a food cook-off challenge. Each team has 30 minutes to make an appetiser, entree and dessert using only 12 ingredients.
••”The Good Wife” (9 p.m. on CBS): In an emergency courtroom set up in a hospital, Alicia and Will battle Patti Nyholm (Martha Plimpton, “Parenthood”) and an insurance company that refuses to pay for life-saving in-utero surgery. Alan Cumming (“The L Word”) also guest stars.
••”Justified” (9 p.m. on FX): From the pages of crime novelist Elmore Leonard comes this series about Raylan Givens (Timothy Olyphant), a no-nonsense deputy U.S. marshal who returns to his native Kentucky to fight crime. In the premiere episode, Givens goes up against a buddy from his youth, Boyd Crowder, who has resurfaced as a violent white-power leader.
••“Love Games: Bad Girls Need Love Too” (10 p.m. on Oxygen): This new dating competition series features three former “Bad Girls Club” members — Amber (Season 3), Kendra (Season 4) and Sarah (Season 3) vying for the man of their dreams from a pool of 13 eligible bachelors. After a series of challenges and intimate group dates each week, in the end, only one Bad Girl and her beau will be left standing.
••”Marriage Under Construction” (10 p.m. on HGTV): This new weekly series follows newlyweds Natalie and Rodney as they purchase, renovate and decorate their new home. An expert foreman and an aspiring designer will help the couple transform their new house into a home as they adjust to married life and managing a household budget.
••”NCIS” (7 p.m. on CBS): The team discovers striking similarities between themselves and their Coast Guard Investigative Services counterparts when a Navy diver seeking sunken treasure is found dead. Diane Neal (“Law & Order”) and Shanna Moakler (“Law & Order”) guest star.
••”NCIS: Los Angeles” (8 p.m. on CBS): The investigation of a drive-by shooting has the NCIS team searching Los Angeles for the dead marine’s younger brother who may be the next target and the one with the answers. Sticky Fingaz Jones (“Platinum”) guest stars.
••”Samurai” (7 p.m. on History Channel): Actor/martial arts champ Mark Dacascos (“The Crow”) takes a personal journey in search of the life and legacy of Japan’s most celebrated and enigmatic warrior.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17, 2010
••”Addicted” (9 p.m. on TLC): This new docu-series will demonstrate the debilitating disease of addiction and how it not only affects the addict but the family as well. Interventionist Kristina Wandzilak will pull from her own experiences to help bring a level of understanding and compassion to the healing process.
••“CSI: NY” (9 p.m. on CBS): When two bodies are discovered at the north and south ends of the city, Mac and the team deftly begin to navigate the trail of evidence left behind by the killer. Skeet Ulrich (“Jericho”) and Sarah Carter (“Shark”) guest star.
••”Destination Truth” (9 p.m. on Syfy): The crew heads to Ireland in search of the legendary leprechaun. Allison Scagliotti (“Warehouse 13″) and Kris Williams (“Ghost Hunters”) are guest investigators.
••”Gary Unmarried” (7:30 p.m. on CBS): When Gary finds out that he and Allison’s divorce papers were never filed, he uses the information to manipulate her into giving him his stuff back. Rachael Harris (“The Hangover”) and Lara Spencer (“Entertainment Tonight”) guest star.
••“Modern Family” (8 p.m. on ABC): Claire feels slightly inadequate when her old friend, Valerie (Minnie Driver, “The Riches”), visits and is nothing like Claire remembered. Meanwhile Jay has an unsettling locker room moment when he and Cameron go play racquetball.
••”The New Adventures of Old Christine” (7 p.m. on CBS): After Barb has her lawyer send over divorce papers, Christine hires an aggressive divorce attorney (Corbin Bernsen, “Psych”), who convinces her that Barb owes her alimony.
••”The Price Is Right” (10 a.m. on CBS): The longest-running game show celebrates St. Patrick’s Day by giving away prizes such as a greem Mini Cooper convertible adna trip to Ireland. With most of the audience in a sea of green, the luck of the Irish seems to work for several contestants who come away as big winners.
••“Priests in Concert at Liverpool” (8:30 p.m. on OETA-13): Internationally acclaimed artists The Priests perfom inspirational classic at the historic Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King in Liverpool, England.
••“Scrubs” (7 p.m. on ABC): On the Season 9 finale, the med students of Winston University finally find something to be thankful for when Cole identifies his true calling in surgery, Drew finds the love of his life and Lucy finds the inspiration to become a doctor.
••“South Park” (9 p.m. on Comedy Central): The foul-mouthed fourth-graders return for more shenanigans Season 14.
••”Ugly Americans” (9:30 p.m. on Comedy Central): This new animated horror-comedy series follows Mark Lilly, a social worker at the “Department of Integration,” as he helps new citizens, both human and “other,” adapt to hectic life in New York City. There are easier tasks than weaning vampires off blood, socializing land-whales and housebreaking werewolves, but Mark is up to the challenge.
••“Ugly Betty” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Justin loves his acting class, helmed by the eccentric Lena Korvinka (Carol Kane, “American Dreamer”), and finds himself in an unexpected triangle with his new pals, Austin and Lily. When Betty drops by class, she’s smitten with a cool young playwright whom she will profile for Mode.
THURSDAY, MARCH 18, 2010
••“Afghan Star” (8 p.m. on HBO): Since 2005, millions in Afghanistan have been tuning in to Tolo TV’s “American Idol”-style series. This documentary chronicles contestants on the show and the country’s ongoing struggle for modernity.
••“Archer” (9 p.m. on FX): In the Season 1 finale, questions about the identity of Archer’s real father lead him into a trap and a confrontation with Malory.
••“Benise: The Spanish Guitar” (9 p.m. on OETA-13): Flamenco guitarist Benise’s special will transport viewers to exotic place with video, new songs and an ever-changing set.
••”Bones” (7 p.m. on Fox): Booth’s grandfather Hank (Ralph Waite, “The Waltons”) comes to live with him and tags along as Brennan and Booth investigate ashes and charred remains found by a real estate agent while showing a property to prospective buyers.
••“FlashForward” (7 p.m. on ABC): Mark is suspended from duty at the FBI and must meet with a Bureau-appointed therapist in order to regain his badge. But he resumes his own investigation into his disappearance of Lloyd. The series is scheduled to air without repeats through the end of the season.
••“The Marriage Ref” (9 p.m. on NBC): Celebrity panelists Jason Alexander (“Seinfeld”), Martha Stewart (“Martha”) and Cedric the Entertainer (“The Steve Harvey Show”) offer their wit, wisdom and unique opinions to couples in marital tiffs.
••“My First Sale” (7:30 p.m. on HGTV): Each episode of this new series follows a different first-time home-seller as he or she face the frustrations of a challenging real estate market. Viewers will get valuable takeaway information and expert advice to help demystify the home sales process.
••”Parks and Recreation” (7:30 p.m. on NBC): After Jerry gets mugged by a bunch of kids, Leslie meets with the head park ranger (Andy Samberg, “Saturday Night Live”) in hopes of improving park safety.
••“Selling New York” (8 p.m. on HGTV): This new series follows a colorful group of assertive, razor-sharp brokers from two upscale boutique real estate firms, The Core Group and the Kleier family of Gumley Haft Kleier. These realtors will do whatever it takes to sell a property, from scheduling photo shoots and last-minute open houses to pampering a potential buyer with an excursion to New York Fashion Week.
••“Tough as Nails” (8:30 p.m. on HGTV): This new docu-drama follows successful Boston developer Cindy Stumpo as she juggles the demands of running her booming construction business and living her family life.
••”True Crime With Aphrodite Jones” (9 p.m. on Investigation Discovery): In this installment, journalist and bestselling author Aphrodite Jones uncovers new information about the fall of former football player O.J. Simpson.
FRIDAY, MARCH 19, 2010
••“CMT Crossroads” (9 p.m. on CMT): Taped before an invitation only audience, Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band bring their tropical tastes and rousing performances to each other’s hit songs such as Jimmy Buffett’s “Margaritaville” and “Son of a Sailor” and Zac Brown Band’s “Chicken Fried” and “Toes.”
••”Live From Abbey Road” (7 p.m. on Sundance): Musical artists discussing their work and performing at London’s Abbey Road Studios are Green Day, Bat for Lashes and Starsailor.
••“Thin Ice” (7 p.m. on ABC): Elisabeth Hasselbeck (“The View”) and Kurt Browning (Canadian figure skating champion) co-host this event, in which pro figure skaters compete in pairs for a panel of judges led by Kristi Yamaguchi and Dick Button. The winners are decided by a combination of the judges’ scores and viewer votes and will be revealed March 21. Competitors include Jamie Sale, Patrice Lauzon, Shizuka Arakawa, Shae-Lynn Bourne, David Pelletier, John Zimmerman and Michael Weiss.
••”Who Do You Think You Are?” (7 p.m. on NBC): Lisa Kudrow (“Friends”) travels from Los Angeles to Belarus and uncovers the answer to her father’s life-long unasnwered question.
SATURDAY, MARCH 20, 2010
••“Freakiest Foods” (9 p.m. on FLN): Host Adam Gertler takes a peek as some of the most unique and unusual foods around the country, including pork brain sandwiches, Rocky Mountain oysters and tempura battered tarantula.
••“Handy Manny Big Race” (6 p.m. on Disney): In this primetime special for preschoolers and parents, Manny and the tools hit the motor speedway as a pit crew for the highly anticipated Wood Valley 500. NASCAR champion Dale Earnhardt Jr. guest stars.
••“Healing Hands” (8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel): A near-death experience leaves Buddy (Eddie Cibrian), a humble janitor, with the ability to heal others through a simple touch, and he feels newly empowered when strangers start coming to him for help. But as his gift begins to jeopardize his own health, as well as his plans with the woman he loves (Lisa Sheridan), he must decide what is more important: others’ futures or his own.
••”Kick Buttowski — Suburban Daredevil” (7:30 a.m. on Disney XD): Kick causes the school bus to get trapped during a blizzard. Without the support of class president Kendall (Emily Osment, “Hannah Montana”), Kick and Gunther take it upon themselves to rescue their classmates by creating a snowmobile.
••“Moveable Feast” (10:30 a.m. on OETA-13): This special brings together six American chefs, including Oklahoma native Rick Bayless (“Mexico One Plate at a Time”), to represent the diversity of food and culture in the United States.
–Penny TV
Happy Birthday, John Barrowman
March 11, 2010 – John Scot
Barrowman, who played Captain Jack Harkness on “Torchwood” (2006-09), turns 43 today.
He played Peter Williams on “Titans” (2000-01).
His first acting role was as Street Person on a 1987 episode of “The Untouchables.” He was 20.
Best wishes to John and everybody who shares this special day with him.
–Penny TV
Pictured at right: John Barrowman who plays Captain Jack Harkness in BBC television series “Torchwood” is seen on the set at the BBC studios in Cardiff, Wales, Monday, Nov. 17, 2008. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)
Top 30 Guest Stars on TV Shows airing March 7-13, 2010
Friday is when The Oklahoman
posts a list of the top guest stars (and all the premieres and finales, see separate blog) appearing on TV next week.
And here are 30 (or more) celebrities making special TV appearances the week of March 7.
If a well-known personality was missed, feel free to add his or her name in the comments section to help make this list a complete and accurate source for TV watchers everywhere.
NOTE: Times are CST (for EST, add one hour)
GUEST STARS
••Madchen Amick (“Gossip Girl”) on “CSI: NY,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••John Amos (“The West Wing”) on “Two and a Half Men,” 8 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Kathy Baker (“Boston Public”) on “Medium,” 8 p.m. Friday on CBS.
••Kathy Bates (“The Blindside”) on “The Office,” 8 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Mayim Bialik (“Blossom”) on “Til Death,” 6:30 p.m. Sunday on Fox.
••Timothy Busfield (“The West Wing”) on “Law & Order,” 9 p.m. Monday on NBC.
••Billy Campbell (“The 4400”) on “Melrose Place,” 8 p.m. Tuesday on CW.
••Bucky Covington (country singer) on “Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?” 7 p.m. Tuesday on My Network TV.
••Alan Cumming (“The L Word”) on “The Good Wife,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Larry David (“Curb Your Enthusiasm”) on “The Marriage Ref,” 9 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Loretta Devine (“Grey’s Anatomy”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Devo (new wave band) on “Yo Gabba Gabba,” 9:30 a.m. Thursday on Nickelodeon.
••Steven Eckholdt (“The L Word”) on “Two and a Half Men,” 8 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Eve (“Eve”) on “Glee,” 8 p.m. Tuesday on Fox.
••Ana Gasteyer (“Saturday Night Live”) on “The Good Wife,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Ricky Gervais (“The Ricky Gervais Show”) on “The Marriage Ref,” 9 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Bruce Gray (“Playmakers”) on “Medium,” 8 p.m. Friday on CBS.
••Judy Greer (“27 Dresses”) on “Modern Family,” 8 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Joel Grey (“Cabaret”) on “Grey’s Anatomy,” 7 p.m. Thursday on ABC.
••Jamie Hector (“The Wire”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Perez Hilton (celebrity blogger) on “America’s Next Top Model,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on CW and 6 p.m. Saturday on KOCB.
••Jack Ingram (country singer) on “Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?” 7:30 p.m. Tuesday on My Network TV.
••Elton John (“Tommy”) on “The View,” 10 a.m. Thursday on ABC.
••Wesley Jonathan (“What I Like About You”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Lainie Kazan (“My Big Fat Greek Life”) on “Ugly Betty,” 9:01 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Stacy Keach (“Titus”) on “Two and a Half Men,” 8 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Perry King (“Melrose Place”) on “Big Love,” 8 p.m. Sunday on HBO.
••Jay Leno (“The Tonight Show”) on “Top Gear,” 7 p.m. Monday on BBC America.
••Jennifer Lopez (“Monster-in-Law”) on “How I Met Your Mother,” 7 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Madonna (“Evita”) on “The Marriage Ref,” 9 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Brian Stokes Mitchell (“One Last Thing”) on “Ugly Betty,” 9:01 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Martin Mull (“Roseanne”) on “Til Death,” 6 p.m. Sunday on Fox.
••Niecy Nash (“G-Force”) on “Gary Unmarried,” 7:30 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Lena Olin (“Alias”) on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on NBC.
••Sam Page (“Mad Men”) on “Greek,” 9 p.m. Monday on ABC Family.
••Lou Diamond Phillips (“SGU: Stargate Universe”) on “NUMB3RS,” 9 p.m. Friday on CBS.
••Lauren Prepon (“That ’70s Show”) on “House,” 7 p.m. Monday on Fox.
••Faith Prince (“Huff”) on “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” 8 p.m. Thursday on CBS.
••Stephen Root (“Office Space”) on “24,” 8 p.m. Monday on Fox.
••Nestor Serrano (“24″) on “Ugly Betty,” 9:01 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Ally Sheedy (“The Breakfast Club”) on “Psych,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on USA Network.
••Sarah Silverman (“The Sarah Silverman Program”) on “Yo Gabba Gabba,” 9:30 a.m. Monday on Nickelodeon.
••Emmitt Smith (“Dancing With the Stars”) on “Who Do You Think You Are?” 7 p.m. Friday on NBC.
••Sissy Spacek (“Carrie”) on “Big Love,” 8 p.m. Sunday on HBO.
••Vincent Spano (“Lone Rider”) on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” 8 p.m. Wednesday on NBC.
••Ben Stiller (“Tropic Thunder”) on “Phineas and Ferb,” 8 p.m. Monday on Disney XD.
••Joe Torre (Los Angeles Dodgers manager) on “Gary Unmarried,” 7:30 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Alexa Vega (“Spy Kids”) on “The Middle,” 7:30 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Weezer (alternative rock band) on “Yo Gabba Gabba,” 9:30 a.m. Tuesday on Nickelodeon.
••Steven Williams (“The X-Files”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Rumer Willis (“Sorority Row”) in “90210,” 7 p.m. Tuesday on CW.
••Weird Al Yankovic (“Halloween II”) on “Yo Gabba Gabba,” 9:30 a.m. Monday on Nickelodeon.
••Ian Ziering (“Beverly Hills 90210″) on “CSI: NY,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
Pictured above: WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? — “Emmitt Smith” — Photo by: Kent Eanes/NBC
