Top 55 TV Programs for Feb. 28-March 6, 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 Feb. 28:
NOTE: Times are CST (for EST, add one hour)
SUNDAY, FEB. 28, 2010
••”Big Love” (8 p.m. on HBO): Barb shocks Nicki with news about Joey. Bill looks for clues about J.J. (Zeljko Ivanek, “Damages”) in Kansas.
••”Cold Case” (9 p.m. on CBS): The team decides to kill time at a work acquaintance’s wedding by looking into wther his bride (Rachel Miner, “Californication”) was responsible for killing her former fiance (Noah Bean, “Damages”), who died mere hours after he canceled their nuptials. Sean Maguire (“The Class”) guest stars as the former fiance’s best friend.
••”Desperate Housewives” (8 p.m. on ABC): When Celia comes down with the chicken pox, Gaby must keep her distance. Having never had the chicken pox herself, Gaby stays with Tuc and Bob and is reminded of what it’s like to be single again. Julie Benz (“Dexter”) guest stars.
••”Disease Detectives” (8 p.m. on Discovery Health): This special follows a real-life “Dr. House” and his team of experts inside the Undiagnosed Disease Program at the National Institutes for Health as they attempt to solve real medical mysteries and help desperate patients in just five days.
••”Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (7 p.m. on ABC): Country singer Trace Adkins (“The Celebrity Apprentice”) helps the team rebuild the home of a wounded police officer in Lancaster, Texas, who lost most of his mobility and all of his hearing after being shot while leading a Dallas Police Department SWAT team.
••”Imagination Movers” (9 a.m. on Disney): When Gladys, the new and slightly bumbling Tooth Fairy, has trouble doing her job without waking up the kids, the Movers help show her how to get the job done. Cheri Oteri (“Saturday Night Live”) guest stars.
••”The Marriage Ref” (9:30 p.m. on NBC): Jerry Seinfeld (“Seinfeld”), Alec Baldwin (“30 Rock”) and Kelly Ripa (“Live With Regis and Kelly”) weigh in on a special sneak preview of this new comedy panel series about the unpredictable and hilarious institution commonly known as marriage. Tom Papa (“Come to Papa”) is the “Ref” on the show, which premieres Thursday.
••”Masterpiece Classic” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): This adaptation of John Buchan’s World War I adventure novel “The 39 Steps” follows the fortunes of Richard Hannay (Rupert Penry-Jones), a mining engineer who gets caught up in a conspiracy after a British spy is found dead in his apartment.
••”The Providence Effect” (11 a.m. on TV One): This documentary film that tells the story of a school on Chicago’s impoverished West Side that has been sending 100 percent of its high school graduates to four-year colleges for 30 years.
••”Undercover Boss” (8 p.m. on CBS): Dave Rife, the owner of White Castle, goes undercover in his own company where he accidentally ruins thousands of hamburger buns after mishandling equipment in one of his bakeries. He also discovers low morale among his employees at a local factory.
••”Weather Proof” (8 p.m. on The Weather Channel): Co-hosts Stephanie Abrams and Newton Wimer test everything from windows and mobile homes to see if they hold up against a powerful hurricane simulator – a jet engine. And see how to escape from a stranded vehicle with only seconds to act as dangerous waters rise in a flash flood.
MONDAY, MARCH 1
••”The Bachelor” (7 p.m. on ABC): In the two-hour Season 14 finale, Jake must choose between Tenley and Vienna. Throughout the episode, Tom Bergeron will announce the new cast of “Dancing With the Stars” that premieres March 22.
••”Bewitched” (4 p.m. on TV Land): The Emmy award-winning series that aired on ABC from 1964-1972 joins the network’s weekday lineup. The series follows Samantha Stevens (Elizabeth Montgomery), a stay-at-home wife with a secret. After marrying her husband, ad-exec Darrin Stevens (Dick York, then played by Dick Sargent), she reveals to him that she is a witch.
••”CSI: Miami” (9 p.m. on CBS): Filmmaker and musician Rob Zombie directs this new episode in which the CSI team discovers that a listening device has been covertly planted at a crime scene. Guest stars include Zombie’s wife Sheri Moon (“Halloween”), Malcolm McDowell (“Heroes”) and William Forsythe (“John Doe”).
••”Greek” (9 p.m. on ABC Family): Professor Hilgendorf and his family has moved in next door to the Kappa Tau house, and their presence is putting a damper on the KTs’ festivities. Sam Page (“Mad Men”) guest stars.
••”House” (7 p.m. on Fox): Wilson puts himself on the case when an old friend (Joshua Malina, “The West Wing”) and former patient experiences paralysis in his right arm. House suspects the man’s cancer has returned, but Wilson works overtime to find an alternative diagnosis.
••”How I Met Your Mother” (7 p.m. on CBS): When the gang tries to convince Ted that he is being strung along by Tiffany (Carrie Underwood, “American Idol”), they reflect about relationships where each of them has been in the same situation.
••“Inside the Actors Studio” (6 p.m. on Bravo): Host James Lipton welcomes award-winning director, producer, editor and writer James Cameron to the stage. Cameron’s career trajectory has skyrocketed this small-town Canadian boy to one of the biggest names in Hollywood. He has directed two of the highest-grossing films to date — “Titanic” and “Avatar.”
••”NFL Full Contact” (9 p.m. on truTV): The Pro Bowl honors the NFL’s best players. For the first time, the event is moving to the site of the Super Bowl, with the game being played the Sunday before the NFL championship. But whether this first Pro Bowl of its kind will go off without a hitch remains to be seen.
••”Paralyzed and Pregnant with Twins” (7 p.m. on Discovery Health): This special presents the story of Claudia, a woman who was paralyzed from the armpits down following a car accident that killed her infant son. Claudia hoped that one day she could have more children and, despite doctors’ skepticism, her dream came true.
••”The Real Housewives Top 25: The Early Years” (9 p.m. on Bravo): This special features the 25 favorite moments from the first seasons of New York, Atlanta and New Jersey and the first two seasons of Orange County, as chosen by Andy Cohen (Bravo’s SVP of Original Programming and Development and host of “Watch What Happens”).
••”Rules of Engagement” (7:30 p.m. on CBS): In the Season 4 premiere, Jeff takes Russell’s advice and reciprocates a female colleague’s flirting. Adhir Kalyan, who plays Russell’s assistant Timmy, joins the cast as a series regular.
••”Top Gear” (7 p.m. on BBC America): Jeremy, Ricgard and James immerse themselves in the world of classic cars to find out if they really are more fun than modern machinery. Also, Jeremy interviews AC/DC lead singer Brian Johnson in the studio.
••”Two and a Half Men” (8 p.m. on CBS): Charlie runs off to Vegas and returns with a new wife, but she’s not Chelsea. Stacy Keach (“Titus” ) and John Amos (“Men In Trees”) guest star.
TUESDAY, MARCH 2
••”20/20: Before They Were Famous” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): This special Oscars-themed edition features stories of how some nominees got their big breaks. George Clooney’s father, Nick Clooney, takes ABC cameras inside the actor’s childhood home in Kentucky. Sandra Bullock’s childhood friend shares stories and photos of the first-time nominee as a high school cheerleader in Virginia. Actor Beau Bridges, the brother of five-time Oscar nominee Jeff Bridges, talks about his brother’s early years. And Mo’Nique’s husband, Sidney Hicks, talks about the early years with the talented comedienne turned actress.
••”The Biggest Loser” (7 p.m. on NBC): After viewers learn who was eliminated after the Olympic challenge cliffhanger (Cheryl George from Ardmore or Darrell Hough from Michigan), host Alison Sweeney tells all the contestants they are switching to blue vs. black teams.
••”Frontline” (midnight on OETA-13): The new documentary “The Suicide Tourist” explores the topic of whether we have the right to end our lives in the last stages of painful terminal illness or if life becomes unbearable for other reasons. It includes access to Dignitas, the Swiss nonprofit group that helps people with terminal illnesses to end their lives.
••”The Good Wife” (9 p.m. on CBS): While Peter gets acclimated to life at home and works on a comeback strategy with his political team, including Eli Gold (Alan Cumming, “The L Word”), Alicia and Diane wrestle with spousal privilege laws in a murder case that hinges on their ability to get a wife to testify against her husband. Gary Cole (“The West Wing”) guest stars as Kurt McVeigh, a rugged ballistics expert who Diane finds herself attracted to.
••”Madman of the Sea” (9 p.m. on Animal Planet): This new six-part series follows the adventures of Australian fisherman Matt Watson, He is dubbed the “fish whisperer” by his peers for his ability to lure the biggest, fastest, baddest sea creatures that lurk beneath the surface. He feeds off adrenaline and travels the uncharted seas looking for that next great catch, and he’s willing to do anything to find it.
••”Parenthood” (9 p.m. on NBC): This new dramedy views contemporary family life as reflected by the large and colorful Braverman clan. In the series premiere, Sarah (Lauren Graham, ‘‘Gilmore Girls”), a single mom, returns to Berkeley, Calif., to be closer to her family, while brother Adam (Peter Krause) learns that his son (Max Burkholder) has Asperger’s syndrome.
••”Players” (9:30 p.m. on SPIKE): This new series follows two brothers with conflicting personalities trying to run a successful sports bar. Matt Walsh plays Bruce Fitzgerald, a free-spirited, fun-loving guy who bets on games and dates the cocktail waitresses. Ian Robert plays Ken, his older, uptight brother who tries to keep the focus on turning a profit while avoiding lawsuits and health code violations.
••”Postpartum Nightmares” (7 p.m. on Discovery Health): This special spotlights women who have had a range of postpartum experiences — from depressions to severe anxiety and event psychosis.Viewers will see how these devastating cpnditions can create turmoil during what is supposed to be one of life’s happiest moments — the addition of a new baby to the family.
••”Southland” (9 p.m. on TNT): In the Season 2 premiere, Nate and Sammy investigate a freeway shooting and wind up threatening the integrity of a major undercover operation. And Chickie finds herself in the middle of a mini-riot after her new partner shoots at a 13-year-old boy.
••”White Collar” (9 p.m. on USA Network): When the daughter of a man from his past goes missing Neal volunteers to help find her. Little does anyone realize the kidnapper is an old enemy of Neal’s who is leading him right into a trap. Diahann Carroll (“Julia”) guest stars.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3, 2010
••”Cougar Town” (8:30 p.m. on ABC): Laurie needs a co-signer to buy her first condo and finds her less than stellar, absentee mother (Beverly D’Angelo, “Entourage”) no help at all. Meanwhile, Bobby is mugged by a woman and Travis comes to Barb’s aid after her latest cosmetic surgery procedure.
••”Faces of America” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): Host Henry Louis Gates Jr. demonstrates how to pick up the search for ancestors where the historical record leaves off, linking the distinctive family histories of such guests as Elizabeth Alexander, Meryl Streep, Mike Nichols, Yo-Yo Ma and Eva Longoria Parker to the broader history of ‘‘the family of man.”
••”Gary Unmarried” (7:30 p.m. on CBS): When Gary’s plan to help Tom land a spot on the wrestling team backfires, he challenges the coach, a former high school nemesis, to a wrestling rematch in an attempt to settle their score. David Koechner (“Anchorman”) guest stars as Soup, Gary’s high school nemesis.
••”Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” (8 p.m. on NBC): When a woman from a growing lesbian community is found dead, detectives Benson and Stabler must work with a local activist (Kathy Griffin, “My Life on the D-List”) to uncover the truth behind the woman’s death.
••”The Locator” (9 p.m. on WEtv): Enid native Troy Dunn returns for a fourth season of granting wishes to people wanting to reconnect with loved ones. In the one-hour season premiere, a daughter searches for the father who disappeared from her life and a young woman searches for the sister she didn’t know existed.
••”Mercy” (7 p.m. on NBC): Following the donut shop shooting, Veronica takes off unexpectedly, leaving everyone to worry about her whereabouts. Back at Mercy, the victims of a bus bombing inundate the emergency room. Alison Sweeney (“The Biggest Loser”) guest stars.
••”Modern Family” (7 p.m. on ABC): Gloria is less than pleased with Jay’s reaction to the arrival of Javier (Benjamin Bratt, “Miss Congeniality”), Manny’s infamously unreliable dad. Meanwhile, Phil is suffering from kidney stones and his dramatics leave Claire no other choice but to call for the hot firemen to rush him to the hospital.
••”The New Adventures of Old Christine” (7 p.m. on CBS): When Christine and Barb find their business unexpectedly profitable, Christine must decide whether to spend her share of the newfound money on herself or follow Barb’s lead and give it to charity. Ed Begley Jr. (“Gary Unmarried”) and Ashley Williams (“Side Order of Life”) guest star.
••”The Oprah Winfrey Oscar Special” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Oprah Winfrey brings together some of Hollywood’s biggest stars to interview each other. The revealing and intimate interviews include Halle Berry (“Monster’s Ball”) and Penelope Cruz (“Vicky Cristina Barcelona”); “Avatar” director James Cameron and three stars from the film; Ben Affleck (“Good Will Hunting”) and Jeremy Renner (“The Hurt Locker”); and “Fatal Attraction” stars Glenn Close and Michael Douglas.
••”Psych” (9 p.m. on USA Network): After Lassiter takes a page out of Shawn’s book and claims a shark attack victim was actually murdered, the guys must then scramble to find the fish and prove him right. Jeri Ryan (“Leverage”) guest stars.
••”Radical Parenting” (7 p.m. on Discovery Health): This special explores what some might consider to be extreme forms of parenting — from potty training a newborn baby to breast-feeding beyond the age of two. Find out how they came to these parenting decisions and hear from experts about the pros and cons of their choices.
••”Web Soup” (7 p.m. on G4): The series returns for a second season that captures the “best of the worst” moments on the web and brings viewers a no-holds-barred look at the week’s Internet mayhem. In each episode, comedian and host Chris Hardwick presents a selection of crashes, bloopers, accidents and more, along with his wry commentary, signature sketches and side-splitting reenactments.
THURSDAY, MARCH 4, 2010
••”Burn Notice” (9 p.m. on USA Network): Michael’s worst fears come to life when a world-class terrorist is unleased on Miami, threatening to detonate a bomb if Michael doesn’t give him what he wants. With the FBI hot on his trail, Michael will need every advantage and every friend on his side to defeat this madman in the Season 3 finale.
••”CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (8 p.m. on CBS): When a band member of Rascal Flatts is electrocuted by his own guitar during a concert, the CSI team investigates if it was a case of foul play. Actor Will Patton (“24″) guest stars as CIA Associate Director Craig Halliday.
••”Instant Recall” (7:30 p.m. on GSN): This new game show first tests players’ patience, then tests their memory as unsuspecting participants are caught on hidden camera in unbelievable situations—and are then quizzed on the experience for cash and prizes. Wink Martindale (“Tic-Tac-Dough”) and Angela Daun (“Entourage”) host the competition and award the prizes.
••“The Marriage Ref” (9 p.m. on NBC): Tina Fey (“30 Rock”) and Eva Longoria-Parker (“Desperate Housewives”) are on the celebrity panel for the premiere episode of the series that features couples facing off to settle their marital tiffs. The rotating panel of “experts” will offer their own wit, wisdom and unique opinions.
••”The Office” (8 p.m. on NBC): In this special hour-long episode, Pam’s contractions begin but she and Jim are determined to wait it out as long as possible so they can have more time at the hospital. Meanwhile the rest of the office tries to distract Pam from the pain with food and entertainment. Linda Purl (“Bones”) guest stars.
••”Private Practice” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Things get too close for comfort when Addison, Pete and Sam must come together on a complicated case involving a dad-to-be who comes down with tuberculosis and threatens the future of his new family. Meanwhile, with Violet still gone on her Costa Rican escape, Sheldon takes over helping one of her patients, Natasha (Clea Duvall, “Carnivale”), to get over her crippling fear of flying.
••”The Real Housewives of Orange County” (9 p.m. on Bravo): Season 5 ends with a bombshell, as the tension between Tamra Barney and her husband, Simon, reaches the breaking point at the final party of the summer. Meanwhile, Vicki Gunvalson and her husband, Donn, revel in the newfound strength of their marriage and Lynne Curtin tries to reign in her teenage daughters wild behavior at the party.
••”The Real Housewives of New York City” (10 p.m. on Bravo): In the Season 3 premiere, the ladies are spending their remaining summer days together in the Hamptons, but friendships and alliances have shifted significantly. Ramona, Jill, LuAnn and Alex enjoy a sun-filled day on a yacht that Ramona has commissioned for the day – until nasty comments and tears break loose. Jill shares that she is angry with Bethenny and that the two haven’t spoken in months.
••”Tom Brokaw Reports: Boomer$!” (8 p.m. on CNBC): In this two-hour documentary, Tom Brokaw chronicles the impact 78 million baby boomers have had on American society over the past six decades and explores the challenges they face as they begin to approach the age of retirement.
••”Too Many Babies?” (7 p.m. on Discovery Health): One year ago, the Jones family thought just one more baby would make life complete. Instead, they got the surprise of their lives — quintuplets. This special focuses on how they’re learning the ropes all over again in a life that includes their four-year-old daughter and five newborn babies.
FRIDAY, MARCH 5, 2010
••The 8th Annual Visual Effects Society Awards (9 p.m. on ReelzChannel): Director James Cameron (“Avatar”) will be honored with the VES Lifetime Achievement Award at thyis year’s event that celebrates a monumental year in movie visual effects.
••The 25th Film Independent Spirit Awards (10 p.m. on IFC): Eddie Izzard (“The Riches”) serves as Master of Ceremonies for the event that recognizes the achievements of independent filmmakers.
••”Live From Abbey Road” (7 p.m. on Sundance): Musical artists discussing their work and performing at London’s Abbey Road Studios are Seal, Imelda May and Sugarland.
••”Medium” (8 p.m. on CBS): After Allison is mugged, she decides to take charge by enrolling in self-defense classes. Also, Devalos investigates a teenager’s rape and an undercover cop’s possible murder. Laura Prepon (“That ’70s Show”) and Dean Norris (“Breaking Bad”) guest star.
••”NUMB3RS” (9 p.m. on CBS): Series star Rob Morrow (Don) directed this episode in which the team investigates the deaths of two men who were part of a group of friends that had been suxually abused as children by one of their teachers. Moira kelly (“One Tree Hill”) and Alan Ruck (“Spin City”) guest star.
••”Who Do You Think You Are?” (7 p.m. on NBC): In this new series, celebrities embark on personal journeys of self-discovery as each searches for the roots to his family tree, uncovering stories of love, betrayal, intrigue, heroism and tragedy. The premiere episode spotlights the search of Sarah Jessica Parker (“Sex and the City”).
SATURDAY, MARCH 6, 2010
••”America’s Most Wanted” (8 p.m. on Fox): After nearly 22 years of tracking down the nation’s most notorious criminals, the series will celebrate its milestone 1000th episode with a special broadcast. Hosted by John Walsh, the series has helped capture 1100 criminals, including 17 on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list, and reunited 43 missing children with their families, which is Walsh’s proudest achievement.
••”Castle” (9 p.m. on ABC): Castle is wrestling with how to repair his relationship with Beckett while struggling to finish his soon-to-be-published bestseller, “Heat Wave.” Authors Stephen J. Cannell and Michael Connelly guest star as themselves.
••”CNN Presents: Scream Bloody Murder” (7 p.m. on CNN): CNN chief international correspondent Christiane Amanpour reports from the killing fields of the world where genocide has raged. She takes viewers back in time to witness again the places now synonymous with horror: Auschwitz, Cambodia, Darfur, Iraq, Rwanda and Bosnia. In recognition that her journalism in 1992 to 1995 brought much-needed attention to the human rights crisis in Bosnia during the war there, Amanpour was named an Honorary Citizen by the City of Sarajevo for her coverage.
••”Destination Design” (12:30 p.m. on HGTV): In this new series, designer Taniya Nayak helps homeowners who love to travel but seem to miss the boat on good design. In each episode, she sends homeowners on all-expense-paid luxury vacations to discover colors, textures, images and moments that will inspire them. Upon their return, Taniya will formulate a design plan based on the homeowners’ photos, experiences and inspirational souvenirs.
••“Discover Oklahoma” (6:30 p.m. on KWTV-9): Activities to enjoy during spring break include a walk on the wild side at the zoo, indoor swimming in Kingfisher and a spin around an Oklahoma City raceway.
••”Magic & Bird: A Courtship of Rivals” (7 p.m. on HBO): This special traces the history of the competition between Magic Johnson of the Los Angeles Lakers and Larry Bird of the Boston Celtics. Their rivalry began 30 years ago when they led their midwest universities to the 1979 NCAA Championship game, through a decade of dominance, when the two won three NBA MVP awards apiece and a combined eight NBA titles.
••”Pirate for the Sea” (9 p.m. on Planet Green): This is a biographical film of Captain Paul Watson, the youngest founding member of Greenpeace Canada. He organized early campaigns protesting the killing of seals, whales and dolphins.
••”The Suze Orman Show” (8 p.m. on CNBC): Financial advisor Suze Orman celebrates eight years on CNBC and heads into Season 9 with a new mission to help America become healthier and wealthier.
••”Uncorked” (8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel): When business as usual takes a vacation, Johnny (Julie Benz, “Dexter”) must find something, or someone, else to occupy her time. JoBeth Williams (“In the Land of Women”), Elliott Gould (“Ocean’s Eleven”) and Scott Elrod (“Men in Trees”) also star in this romantic comedy about finding a passion that isn’t a paycheck.
–Penny TV
Happy Birthday, Corbin Bleu
Feb. 21, 2010 — Corbin Bleu Reivers, who played Nathan on “Flight 29 Down” (2005-07), turns 21 today.
He played Chad Danforth in “High School Musical” (2006), “High School Musical 2″ (2007) and “High School Musical 3″ (2008).
His first acting role was as Little Boy in a 1996 episode of “ER.” He was 7.
Best wishes to Corbin and everybody who shares this special day with him.
–Penny TV
Pictured at right: In this photo provided by StarPix, actor Corbin Bleu makes his Broadway debut in “In The Heights” Monday, Jan. 25, 2010 in New York. (AP Photo/Amanda Schwab, StarPix)
Top 30 Guest Stars on TV Shows airing Feb. 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 Feb. 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
••Michael John Anderson (“Carnivele”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••John Aniston (“Days of Our Lives”) on “Cold Case,” 8 p.m. Saturday on CBS.
••Elizabeth Banks (“Seabiscuit”) on “Modern Family,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Julie Benz (“Dexter”) on “Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Sarah Carter (“Shark”) on “CSI: NY,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Jon Cryer (“Two and a Half Men”) on “Hannah Montana,” 7 p.m. Sunday on Disney.
••Snoop Dogg (“Old School”) on “One Life to Live,” 1 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Deanna Dunagan (“August: Osage County”) on “Cold Case,” 8 p.m. Saturday on CBS.
••Yani Gellman (“The Young and the Restless”) on “Greek,” 9 p.m. Monday on ABC Family.
••Tony Hale (“Arrested Development”) on “NUMB3RS,” 7 p.m. Saturday on CBS.
••Chelsea Handler (“Chelsea Lately”) on “The Good Wife,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Cheryl Hines (“Curb Your Enthusiasm”) on “Brothers & Sisters,” 9:01 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Michelle Kwan (Olympic figure skater) on “Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!” 6 p.m. Sunday on Nick Jr.
••Michael Learned (“The Waltons”) on “Cold Case,” 8 p.m. Saturday on CBS.
••Chad Faust (“The 4400″) on “Cold Case,” 8 p.m. Saturday on CBS.
••Matt Letscher (“Eli Stone”) on “Medium,” 8 p.m. Friday on CBS.
••Gilles Marini (“Sex and the City”) on “Brothers & Sisters,” 9:01 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Jack McBrayer (“30 Rock”) on “Phineas and Ferb,” 7 a.m. Saturday on Disney XD.
••Peggy McCay (“Days of Our Lives”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Sienna Miller (“Keen Eddie”) on “Top Gear,” 7 p.m. Monday on BBC America.
••Kevin Nealon (“Weeds”) on “Til Death,” 6 p.m. Sunday on Fox).
••Edward Norton (“Primal Fear”) on “Modern Family,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Joe Penny (“Jake and the Fatman “) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Brooke Shields (“Lipstick Jungle”) on “The Middle,” 7:30 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••William Allen Young (“District 9”) on “Medium,” 8 p.m. Friday on CBS.
Pictured above: HANNAH MONTANA – “The Wheel Near My Bed (Keeps On Turnin’)” – When Lilly’s mom accepts a job in Atlanta, Robby invites Lilly to move into the Stewart home. But after Lilly overhears Miley complaining about their new living arrangement, she picks up and moves into her dad Kenneth’s cramped apartment only to find his antics even more harebrained than Miley’s, in a new episode of “Hannah Montana,” premiering SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21 on Disney Channel. (DISNEY CHANNEL/DEAN HENDLER)
JON CRYER, MILEY CYRUS
TV Premieres and Finales airing Feb. 21-27
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 Feb. 21.
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
••”Weather Proof,” 8 p.m. Sunday on The Weather Channel (series premiere).
••”Aaron Stone,” 7 p.m. Wednesay on Disney XD (second-season premiere).
••”Dude, What Would Happen,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on Cartoon Network (second-season premiere).
••”Destroy Build Destroy,” 7:30 p.m. Wednesday on Cartoon Network (second-season premiere).
••”Police Women on Maricopa County,” 8 p.m. Thursday on TLC (second-season premiere).
••”Live From Abbey Road,” 7 p.m. Friday on Sundance (third-season premiere).
••”Dance-a-Lot Robot,” 5:25 a.m. Saturday on Disney (series premiere).
••”Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,” 8 a.m. Saturday on Disney (third-season premiere).
ENDINGS
••“Men of a Certain Age,” 9 p.m. Monday on TNT (first-season finale).
••”Blood, Sweat & T-Shirts,” 9 p.m. Monday on Planet Green (first-season finale).
••”The Little Couple,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on TLC (second-season finale).
••”Conviction Kitchen,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on Planet Green (first-season finale).
••”The Deep End,” 7 p.m. Thursday on ABC (first-season finale).
••“Pit Boss,” 9 p.m. Saturday on Animal Planet (first-season finale).
Pictured above: VENICE, CA – AUGUST 13: Shorty Rossi, second from right, poses with his staff, from left, Ashley Brooks, Sebastian Saraceno and Ronald Lee Clark with his pit bulls on the patio behind his Venice, California, office. (Animal Planet Photo).
Top 55 TV Programs for Feb. 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 Feb. 21:
NOTE: Times are CST (for EST, add one hour)
SUNDAY, FEB. 21, 2010
••”Academy Awards Preview With Chris Harrison” (7 p.m. on TV Guide Network): “The Bachelor” host Chris Harrison, who began his television career by covering local sports in Oklahoma City, profiles this year’s Academy Award nominees.
••“The British Academy Film Awards” (7 p.m. on BBC America): Hollywood and Britain’s biggest movie stars come together at London’s Royal Opera House to honor this year’s best in film. “Avatar,” “An Education” and “The Hurt Locker” lead the pack with eight nominations each. In previous years, many BAFTA wins have correctly predicted who walks away with the Academy Award a few weeks later.
••“Brothers & Sisters” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Sarah rediscovers the love of her life (Gilles Marini, “Sex and the City”) while Kitty makes a grand entree in to politics with her family and new campaign manager by her side (Cheryl Hines, “Curb Your Enthusiasm”).
••“Cold Case” (9 p.m. on CBS): The team investigates the 1971 death of a teenage circus aerialist whose mid-act fall may have been the result of foul play. Guest stars include Joe Penny (“Jake and the Fatman “), Peggy McCay (“Days of Our Lives”) and Michael John Anderson (“Carnivale”). Several songs by The Doors will be featured throughout the episode.
••“Desperate Housewives” (8 p.m. on ABC): Susan causes quite a stir when she invites a former stripper into her home. Julie Benz (“Dexter”) guest stars.
••“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (7 p.m. on ABC): While their new home is being built in Florida, the Wagstaff family flies to Tulsa to meet rockers KISS. Together, they work with Gibson and Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation to provide instruments for Tulsa’s Wilson Middle School. The family runs a non-profit music school to provide services in the arts for everyone.
••“Hannah Montana” (7 p.m. on Disney): When Lilly’s mom accepts a job in Atlanta, Robby invites Lilly to move into the Stewart home. But after Lilly overhears Miley complaining about their new living arrangement, she picks up and moves into her dad’s cramped apartment. Jon Cryer (“Two and a Half Men”) guest stars.
••“King Tut Unwrapped” (7 p.m. on Discovery): World-renowned Egyptologist Zahi Hawass leads a forensic investigation into the life and times of King Tut that reveals for the first time the identity of Tut’s parents and grandparents, his cause of death and new details of his reign. The two-part special concludes at 7 p.m. Monday.
••”Nature” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): The new installment “Invasion of the Giant Pythons” focuses on predatory pythons that have thrived in the protected wilderness of Everglades National Park, making the refuge more a killing ground than a haven for the endangered mamma;s, trees, plants, birds, turtles and alligators there.
••“School Gyrls” (6 p.m. on Nickelodeon): This new musical comedy follows the adventures of three freshmen at an exclusive all-girls boarding school. It features a real-life teen pop group consisting of Mandy Rain, Jacquelyn Rae Pyles and Monica Parales. The movie also features guest appearances by Nick Cannon, Justin Bieber, Kristinia DeBarge, Reverend Run, Soulja Boy, Angie Stone and Pete Wentz.
••“Sinbad: Where U Been?” (9 p.m. on Comedy Central): Sinbad returns to the stage after a 13-year absence from his last stand-up special. He discusses America’s new black president, the lighter side of the economic recession, the pitfalls of love and marriage and, of course, gives everyone the low down of where he’s been.
••”Sins of the Mother” (7 p.m. on Lifetime Movie Network): Jill Scott (“The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency”) stars in this new movie based on author Carleen Brice’s novel “Orange Mint and Honey.” It tells the story about the harsh realities of love, forgiveness and the closest bonds between mother and daughter.
••“Til Death” (6 p.m. on Fox): When Eddie and Joy befriend Stephen (Kevin Nealon, “Weeds”) and his wife Simona, Eddie clicks with them right away, which causes Joy to feel left out.
••“Undercover Boss” (8 p.m. on CBS): Joe DePinto, the chief executive and President of 7-Eleven, goes undercover in his own company where he discovers that one of his corporate policies has not been implemented on the frontlines.
••”Weather Proof” (8 p.m. on The Weather Channel): Learn how to handle dehydration, infection, hypothermia and more that can occur in the great outdoors to ruin a great camping trip. Co-hosts Stephanie Abrams and Newton Wimer test everything from rain gear and sleeping bags to bug repellant and first aid kits.
••“Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!” (6 p.m. on Nick Jr.): The WuzzOlympic Games are coming to town, and coaching all the participants is Michelle Kwanzelberry (voiced by Olympian Michelle Kwan). Wubbzy and his pals get geared up to compete, and Michelle advises them to prepare, practice and have fun.
MONDAY, FEB. 22, 2010
••”American Masters” (9 p.m. on OETA-13): S. Epatha Merkerson (“Law & Order”) narrates the installment “Zora Neale Hurston: Jump at the Sun.” Hurtson was one of the most celebrated and most controversial fugures of the Harlem Renaissance.
••”Antiques Roadshow” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): Items appraised include photos by American photographer Edward Weston, a table crafted by master furniture maker George Nakashima and an exhibition piece made by Tiffany for the 1893 Columbian Exhibition in Chicago.
••”Best of Cake Boss” (8 p.m. on TLC): In this special episode, Buddy Valastro counts down his top five favorite cakes and re-lives some of the most memorable moments from the past two seasons.
••”Blood, Sweat & T-Shirts” (9 p.m. on Planet Green): In the Season 1 finale, six fashion victims embark on a journey in Mumbai, where they are put to work in the backstreet factories in Asia’s largest slum.
••“Greek” (9 p.m. on ABC Family): Ashleigh is worried that her new boyfriend, Pete (Yani Gellman, “The Young and the Restless”), might be another cheater. Her insecurities are only heightened when her nemesis, Gamma Psi Natalie, starts playing with Ashleigh’s head by insinuating that she and Pete are in a relationship.
••“Men of a Certain Age” (9 p.m. on TNT): Feeling guilty about his rapid downward spiral, Joe decides to stop gambling. Owen finds a new sense of purpose when he goes to work for a rival auto dealership. And Terry’s life spins out of control when his gig on a movie results in disasters at the apartment complex he manages.
••“NFL Full Contact” (9 p.m. on truTV): The New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers head to London, as the NFL makes its third trip across the pond to bring America’s game to the United Kingdom. It may seem like a regular game on TV, but for the people behind the scenes, it’s a daunting task.
••“Nightline” (10:35 p.m. on ABC): This installment highlights a recent “Face-Off” debate on “Is it Okay to be Fat?” Cynthia McFadden moderated the discussion that tackles delicate questions related to dieting and obesity and how it relates to heath.
••“The Secret Life of the American Teenager” (7 p.m. on ABC Family): Ben and Adrian have to deal with the repercussions from last week’s stunning turn of events at the school dance. Anson Williams (“Happy Days”) directed the episode.
••”Top Gear” (7 p.m. on BBC America): Jeremy, Richard and James find themselves entered in a terrifying French ice race. Sienna Miller (“Keen Eddie”) is featured in the “star in a reasonable priced car” segment.
••”Ultimate Cake Off” (9 p.m. on TLC): Master cake decorators Kathy Scott, Bob Broughman and Beth Ayala compete to make the ultimate birthday cake for a Sweet 16 birthday celebration aboard the magical Scarlett Belle Riverboat.
TUESDAY, FEB. 23, 2010
••”American Idol” (7 p.m. om Fox): The top 12 female semifinalists take to the stage hoping to earn another week in the competition as they perform live for judges Simon Cowell, Ellen DeGeneres, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi, as well as fans at home. On Wedneday, the top 12 male semifinalists perform. On the first live results show airing Thursday, two girls and two boys will be eliminated.
••”General Hospital” (2 p.m. on CBS): In the daytime drama’s 12,000th episode, the fallout continues from mobster Sonny Corinthos’ learning that undercover cop Dante is his son, and Elizabeth figures out who the father of her unborn child is.
••”The Good Wife” (9 p.m. on CBS): Alicia deals with tricky office politics when she’s asked to represent the firm’s senior partner after her husband, Peter, is arrested. Chelsea Handler (“Chelsea Lately”) guest stars as herself when she interviews Peter’s mistress on her show.
••”Independent Lens” (9:30 p.m. on OETA-13): “Behind the Rainbow” chronicles the story of how the African National Congress transformed from a liberation organization into South Africa’s ruling party.
••”The Little Couple” (9 p.m. on TLC): It’s moving day for Jen and Bill into their temporary rental. Things get crazy when Bill loses his watch that Jen gave him on their anniversary and when Rocky sneaks under the fence in their new backyard.
••”When Learning Comes Naturally” (9 p.m. on OETA-13): This new special documents innovative outdoor education programs around the country created to help children understand and experience the wonders and joys of nature.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 24, 2010
••”Aaron Stone” (7 p.m. on Disney XD): Season 2 finds champion video gamer Charlie Landers and his legendary crime-fighting avatar, Aaron Stone, taking their game to a whole new level when a group of new villains escape and threaten world domination.
••”Conviction Kitchen” (9 p.m. on Planet Green): The last week of the trainees’ three-month probation, and a star-studded graduation party is being planned.
••”CSI: NY” (9 p.m. on CBS): Following a spray of machine gunfire, the CSI team rises from the chaos; however, when one member’s life is significantly changed, it proves to be the emotional motivation they need to piece together their lives and find the shooter. Sarah Carter (“Shark”) guest stars in a recurring role as Haylen Becall, a forensic school graduate who works as a crime scene clean-up technician and aspires to be a CSI.
••”Destroy Build Destroy” (7:30 p.m. on Cartoon Network): This live-action show, back for Season 2, features two groups of teenage contestants who get to destroy various objects and then build vehicles out of the wreckage.
••”Dude, What Would Happen” (7 p.m. on Cartoon Network): Returning for Season 2 are teen hosts C.J. Manigo, Jackson Rogow and Ali Sepasyar. They wonder what would happen if some wild event, scheme, or experiment were to occur and then try to create the event themselves.
••”Faces of America” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): This hour chronicles how land came to define the settling and identity of the country, host Henry Louis Gates Jr. shows Oscar winner Meryl Streep how her eighth great-grandfather fought in Metacom’s War, while Eva Longoria Parker discovers that a land dispute in Spain forced her ancestors to depart for the New World in 1603.
••”The Middle” (7:30 p.m. on ABC): Frankie fears that a confrontation with trashy neighbor Rita Glossner (Brooke Shields, “Lipstick Jungle”) is at hand when Sue has a run-in with her sons.
••”Modern Family” (7 p.m. on ABC): Claire is determined to surprise Phil with an amazing anniversary present – a private performance by one of their favorite musicians, Izzy LaFontaine (Edward Norton, “Primal Fear”). Meanwhile, Mitchell and Cameron call up their party-girl bestie, Sal (Elizabeth Banls, “Seabiscuit”), for a long overdue night out on the town.
••”One Life to Live” (1 p.m. on ABC): After spending time with his friend Bo Buchanan and his family, guest star Snoop Dogg (“Old School”) will head to Capricorn for his return engagement in Llanview.
THURSDAY, FEB. 25, 2010
••”The Deep End” (7 p.m. on ABC): In the Season 1 finale, the group struggle to close all of their cases before Cliff and Susan’s charity gala. Addy and Malcolm must find a way around a deceitful insurance company, while Dylan and Beth fight to keep a young client out of jail for a text messaged photo.
••“Past Life” (8 p.m. on Fox): When a young girl exhibits physical manifestations from traumatic past-life memories, she is dubbed a saint by the media and is brought to the team’s attention. From saint to sinner, the “Saint” Sarah case leads Kate and Price to a serial killer.
••”Police Women of Maricopa County” (8 p.m. on TLC): Season 2 follows four female deputies at the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office in Phoenix. In the premiere episode, Detective Deborah Moyer takes part in a high-speed chase that ends in the tasing of a naked man.
••”Soundstage” (10 p.m. on OETA-13): Willie Nelson and his eight-piece band perform highlights from his first-ever bluegrass album. He also mixes in elements of folk, blues, classic country, western swing and gospel in his “Soundstage” set.
FRIDAY, FEB. 26, 2010
••”The 41st NAACP Image Awards” (7 p.m. on Fox): The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People recognizes artistic achievements as well as people and projects that promote diversity in the arts during ceremonies at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. This year’s nominees include Denzel Washington, Jamie Foxx, Morgan Freeman, Sandra Bullock, Lenny Kravitz, Mariah Carey, Alica Keys, Rihanna and Whitney Houston. Tyler Perry will receive the Chairman’s Award.
••”Live From Abbey Road” (7 p.m. on Sundance): Season 3 opens with a special tribute to the Beatles’ iconic album, “Abbey Road.” The episode features Seal (“Something”), Counting Crows (“Golden Slumbers, Carry That Weight, The End”), Sugarland (“Come Together”) and Matchbox Twenty (“She Came In Through The Bathroom Window”), as well as other never-before-seen performances of songs from the album in conjunction with its 40th Anniversary.
••”Medium” (8 p.m. on CBS): Allison’s visions could help prevent a massive bioterror attack when samples of a deadly virus go missing. Matt Letscher (“Eli Stone”) and William Allen Young (“District 9”) guest star.
••”Turn the Beat Around” (9 p.m. on MTV): This new movie set in the competitive Los Angeles dance scene tells the story of Zoe (Romina D’Ugo), a struggling young dancer who gets the opportunity to fulfill her dreams when she convinces a wealthy nightclub owner to open a new club with a disco theme.The film features original remakes of classic disco songs by some of today’s most popular new acts.
SATURDAY, FEB. 27, 2010
••”Beauty and the Beasts: A Dark Tale” (8 p.m. on Syfy): In this re-imagining of a classic fairy tale, Estella Warren (“Planet of the Apes”) stars as a young Beauty with a gift for healing. She helps a deformed Prince (Rhett Gilles, “Wraiths of Roanoke”) regain his throne and defeat the ruthless nobleman who wants to be king.
••”Cold Case” (8 p.m. on CBS): The team looks into the 1944 murder of the top pilot from the WASP program, a pioneering group of civilian women who volunteered to fly non-combat missions for the U.S. Army Air Force during WWII. Guest starring are Michael Learned (“The Waltons”) as a former WASP pilot, Deanna Dunagan (“August: Osage County”) as the ex-WASP commander, Chad Faust (“The 4400″) as a WASP flight instructor and John Aniston (“Days of Our Lives”) as a WWII Army Air Force pilot veteran.
••”Dance-a-Lot Robot” (5:25 a.m. on Disney): A combination of animation and live-action, this new short-form series stars Dance-A-Lot, a robot with rhythm. He teaches preschoolers simple original dance steps including the robot, the blue jay, the dinosaur stomp and the clock — all set to the music of Devo’s Mark Mothersbaugh.
••”Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” (8 a.m. on Disney): Season 3 launches with the episode “Goofy’s Goofbot,” in which Goofy builds a super smart and strong toy robot that looks just like him. The third season will also feature the new physical fitness-themed short-form series, “Mickey Mousekersize.”
••”NUMB3RS” (7 p.m. on CBS): The team searches for a geneticist’s daughter who they suspect was abducted by her unstable mother, but become more concerned when they think the young girl may be a clone. Tony Hale (“Arrested Development”) guest stars as Russell Lazlo, an erratically brilliant biotech professor helping the team on the case.
••”Phineas and Ferb” (7 a.m. on Disney XD): Irving’s brother doesn’t believe that Phineas and Ferb are anything special, and since he claims to be the “truth detector,” he can prove it. Jack McBrayer (“30 Rock”) guest stars.
••“Pit Boss” (9 p.m. on Animal Planet): Shorty and his team organize a car wash fundraiser to help pay for the many dog rescues that drain Shortywood Production’s bank account. But a thunderstorm threatens to ruin the big event.
–Penny TV
Top 30 Guest Stars on TV Shows airing Feb. 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 Feb. 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
••Rosanna Arquette (“Pulp Fiction”) on “Private Practice,” 9:01 p.m. Thursday on ABC.
••Michael Badalucco (“The Practice”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Garcelle Beauvais-Nilon (“Eyes”) on “Human Target,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on Fox.
••Mayim Bialik (“Blossom”) on “Til Death,” 6:30 p.m. Sunday on Fox, and “The Secret Life of the American Teenager,” 7 p.m. Monday on ABC Family.
••Christie Brinkley (“Vacation”) on “Ugly Betty,” 9:01 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Bruno Campos (“Nip/Tuck”) on “Private Practice,” 9:01 p.m. Thursday on ABC.
••Baron Davis (Los Angeles Clippers) on “The Forgotten,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on ABC.
••Jordan Farmer (Los Angeles Lakers) on “NUMB3RS,” 9 p.m. Friday on CBS.
••Laurence Fishburne (“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation”) on “CSI: Miami,” 9 p.m. Monday and “CSI: NY,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Adam Goldberg (“The Unusuals”) on “NUMB3RS,” 7 p.m. Saturday on CBS.
••Rick Gonzalez (“Reaper”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Richard Kind (“Spin City”) on “Leverage,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on TNT.
••Eva Longoria (“Desperate Housewives”) on “Sesame Street,” 9 a.m. Thursday on OETA-13.
••Martha MacIsaac (“Superbad”) on “Greek,” 9 p.m. Monday on ABC Family.
••Debi Mazar (“Entourage”) on “Sesame Street,” 9 a.m. Tuesday on OETA-13.
••Sam Page (“Mad Men”) on “Greek,” 9 p.m. Monday on ABC Family.
••Chazz Palminteri (“The Usual Suspects”) on “Modern Family,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Sarah Jessica Parker (“Sex and the City”) on “Sesame Street,” 9 a.m. Tuesday on OETA-13.
••Chris Parnell (“Saturday Night Live”) on “Glenn Martin, DDS,” 7:30 p.m. Monday on Nickelodeon.
••Sarah Paulson (“Down with Love”) on “Grey’s Anatomy,” 8 p.m. Thursday on ABC.
••Walter Perez (“Fame”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Tyler Perry (“Madea Goes to Jail”) on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” 8 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Mitch Pileggi (“The X-Files”) on “Human Target,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on Fox, and “Medium,” 8 p.m. Friday on CBS.
••Autumn Reeser (“The O.C.”) on “Human Target,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on Fox.
••J. August Richards (“Raising the Bar”) on “Grey’s Anatomy,” 8 p.m. Thursday on ABC.
••Peter Riegert (“Damages”) on “The Good Wife,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Raini Rodriguez (“Paul Blart: Mall Cop”) on “I’m in the Band,” 6 p.m. Monday on Disney XD.
••Kenny Rogers (“The Gambler”) on “How I Met Your Mother,” 7 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Paul Rudd (“Role Models”) on “Sesame Street,” 9 a.m. Thursday on OETA-13.
••Sara Rue (“Eastwick”) on “Private Practice,” 9:01 p.m. Thursday on ABC.
••Oleysa Rulin (“High School Musical”) on “Greek,” 9 p.m. Monday on ABC Family.
••Jeri Ryan (“Star Trek: Voyager”) on “Leverage,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on TNT.
••Shakira (Grammy-winning singer) on “Ugly Betty,” 9:01 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Keesha Sharp (“Girlfriends”) on “Cold Case,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS.
••Tom Verica (“American Dreams”) on “Medium,” 8 p.m. Friday on CBS.
••Kevin Weisman (“Alias”) on “Human Target,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on Fox.
Top 55 TV Programs for Feb. 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 Feb. 14:
NOTE: Times are CST (for EST, add one hour)
SUNDAY, FEB. 14
••“The Amazing Race” (7 p.m. on CBS): Oklahomans Jet and Cord McCoy are among the 11 teams competing in the 40,0000-mile race across five continents. Other teams include “Big Brother 11″ houseguests Jordan Lloyd and Jeff Schroeder, 2007 Miss South Carolina Teen USA Caite Upton and her boyfriend, Brent, and Cleveland Indian third-base coach Steve Smith and his daughter, Allison.
••“Cold Case” (9 p.m. on CBS): Newly discovered details about the mugger of Valen’s mother, a joint custody request from Miller’s ex and brewing legal hurdles for Rush (Kathryn Morris) vex those team members as they attempt to solve the 1983 murder of a graffiti artist. Guest starring are Michael Badalucco (“The Practice”), Rick Gonzalez (“Reaper”), Keesha Sharp (“Girlfriends”) and Walter Perez (“Fame”).
••“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (8 p.m. on ABC): Celebrity volunteer Tyler Perry (“Madea Goes to Jail”) joins the team in Prince George’s County, MD, to help a couple who have put the well-being of neighborhood kids ahead of their own living conditions.
••“High Stakes Poker” (8 p.m. on GSN): Season 6 features the toughest line-up of professional poker players ever, resulting in the type of action that any poker fan would yearn for and learn from. Professional poker player Kara Scott joins Gabe Kaplan to co-host this season.
••“How to Make It in America” (9 p.m. on HBO): This new series follows two enterprising Brooklyn twentysomethings as they hustle their way through New York City trying to make a name for themselves in New York’s competitive fashion scene. Ben Epstein (Bryan Greenberg) and Cam Calderon (Victor Rasuk) use their street knowledge and connections to bring their ambitions to fruition.
••“Masterpiece Classic” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): In this adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Northanger Abbey,” Felicity Jones stars as in-love-with-love Catherine Morland, who is thrown into high society via her patrons. She falls in love, but monetary and social issues get in the way.
••“Sexting in America: When Privates Go Public” (8 p.m. on MTV): This 30 minute special examines how ‘sexting’ is impacting youth culture and relationships, the stakes involved and how this trend is becoming a new frontier for teen dating abuse.
••“Sextistics: Your Love Life” (8 p.m. on TLC): Ever wondered if there is a smoother path down the rocky road of love? Or how your love life matches up with the rest of the nation? This special reveals the startling answers.
••”The Simpsons” (7 p.m. on Fox): The Simpsons head to the 2010 Vancouver Games where Marge and Homer compete as part of a curling team. Bob Costas (guest-voicing as himself) reports.
••“Starstruck” (7 p.m. on Disney): Sterling Knight (“Sonny With A Chance”) and Danielle Campbell (“Prison Break”) star in this music and adventure-filled movie about a Hollywood pop star who, after meeting a down-to-earth girl visiting from the Midwest, is faced with either following his heart or doing what’s best for his career.
••”Til Death” (6:30 p.m. on Fox): Ally sends Doug to a shrink (Mayim Bialik, “Blossom”) to cure his mysterious illness.
••“Tool Academy 3” (8 p.m. on VH1): A new class of bad boyfriends and girlfriends learn what it takes to fix their relationships in Season 3.
••“Undercover Boss” (8 p.m. on CBS): When Coby Brooks, President and CEO of “Hooters” goes undercover in his own company, he finds himself struggling to keep up in a fast-paced kitchen and is, later, forced to take immediate action when a restaurant manager steps out of line.
••“The Visitors” (7 p.m. on Documentary Channel): This documentary follows the exhausting journey of individuals as they leave their homes every weekend and travel to various prisons in Upstate New York to visit loved ones. Every Friday night about 800 people, mostly women and children, gather at Columbus Circle in Manhattan and board buses. Depending on the destination, the trips can take 8 or 10 hours one way.
MONDAY, FEB. 15, 2010
••“The 134th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show” (7 p.m. today and Tuesday on USA Network): Tamron Hall (MSNBC Live”) will co-host the event with David Frei, longtime breeder-owner-handler and judge in the world of purebred dogs. Entries this year total 2,500 dogs representing 48 states, the District of Columbia and at least eight foreign countries. The highest breed entered is the Australian Shepherds with 44.
••”Antiques Roadshow” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): Items appraised in Hour One from Madison, Wisc., include an art deco charm bracelet, an heirloom 1938 Martin D-18 guitar and an angry letter from Frank Sinatra to Chicago Daily News columnist Mike Royko.
••“Celebrity Close Calls” (9 p.m. on BIO Channel): Celebrities Jane Seymour (“Modern Men”), Erik Estrada (“ChiPs”), Leif Garrett (“Popstar”) and Coolio (“Three Days to Vegas”) tell their tales where each were forced to face their own mortality in shocking, unexpected twists of fate. They describe the out of body visions they experienced and how they fought “the white light.” Garrett plunged his Porsche off a highway, paralyzing his passenger. Estrada was crushed by his motorcycle on the set of “ChiPs.” Coolio nearly died from an asthma attack. And Seymour was left fighting for her life after a routine injection gone wrong.
••“CSI: Miami” (9 p.m. on CBS): Horatio Caine calls Las Vegas CSI Dr. Ray Langston (Laurence Fishburne, “CSI”) to come to Miami when a severed leg found in the Everglades is discovered to belong to a girl who went missing in Las Vegas a week earlier.
••“Facing Ali” (8 p.m. on SPIKE): This documentary delves into the life of boxing legend Muhammad Ali in and out of the ring through the eyes of those who fought him. Among those interviewed are George Foreman, Joe Frazier, Larry Holmes, Ken Norton and Leon Spinks.
••“Greek” (9 p.m. on ABC Family): Casey is ready to discuss the future with Cappie, and the situation isn’t helped by handsome Washington politician Joel (Sam Page, “Mad Men”), who encourages Casey to envision a potential career in politics after she volunteers to help him with his voter registration campaign at the Cyprus Rhodes campus. Martha MacIsaac (“Superbad”) and Oleysa Rulin (“High School Musical”) also guest star.
••“How I Met Your Mother” (7 p.m. on CBS): While Barney tries to convince Robin to become an American citizen, Ted and Marshall’s fabled road trip takes a wrong turn when Marshall invites Lily. Guest star Kenny Rogers (“The Gambler”) narrates the audio book played during Marshall and Ted’s road trip.
••”I’m in the Band” (6 p.m. on Disney XD): Arlene (Raini Rodriguez, “Paul Blart: Mall Cop”) invites Tripp and his band mates over to her house for a gathering honoring the demise of Hip Hop.
••”One Tree Hill” (7 p.m. on CW): Nathan tries to help Haley and Jamie confront Lydia’s seemingly hopeless situation. Series star Bethany Joy Galeotti (Haley) directed the episode
••“The Penguins of Madagascar” (7 p.m. on Nickelodeon): In the show’s first special, “Dr. Blowhole’s Revenge,” Neil Patrick Harris (“How I Met Your Mother”) guest stars as the penguins’ long-time nemesis out for revenge and to finally conquer the world.
••“Picturing the Presidents” (7 p.m. on Smithsonian Channel): This special that looks at the photos, caricatures and portraits that have captured, satirized and humanized past presidents. From the portrait that enraged LBJ to the bad-hair-day photograph that almost cost Lincoln the election, the pictures that elicit reactions are as divisive as the subjects themselves.
••“The Secret Life of the American Teenager” (7 p.m. on ABC Family): The new school counselor, Dr. Bink (Mayim Bialik, “Blossom”), organizes Grant High School’s first mother/daughter dance during which each group learns a great deal about the other and their respective personal lives.
••”Top Gear” (7 p.m. on BBC America): Jeremy gets chased by the British Army in some of their latest and most deadly toys. Olympic gold-medal winning sprinter Usain Bolt is featured in the “Star in a Reasonably Priced Car” segment.
••“Yoga Inc.” (7 p.m. on Documentary Channel): This documentary takes an in-depth look into the world of yoga, examining an ancient spiritual practice and its controversial transformation into a competitive, commercialized, multi-million dollar industry.
TUESDAY, FEB. 16, 2010
••”16 and Pregnant” (9 p.m. on MTV): This series, back for Season 2, looks inside the lives of 10 teenagers as they face the challenges that come with being a young parent. For 5-7 months, the series follows these teens as they navigate the unfamiliar territory and uncertainty of being pregnant.
••”The Forgotten” (9 p.m. on ABC): The Forgotten Network sets out to identify a 40-year-old woman found murdered in a local bar. One of the primary suspects is a superstar basketball player (Baron Davis, LA Clippers), who had an altercation with Jane Doe days before.
••”The Good Wife” (9 p.m. on CBS): As Alicia prepares to defend a scientist accused of arson, she is caught off guard when Peter’s attorney asks her to testify on Peter’s behalf sooner than she expected. Peter Riegert (“Damages”) guest stars as the judge in Peter’s appeal.
••”Independent Lens” (9:30 p.m. on OETA-13): The new installment “Mine/Home” explores the vital bond between humans and animals, as demonstrated in the attempts by Hurricane Katrina victims to find their pets.
••”Maneaters” (9 p.m. on Animal Planet): Using real footage mixed with dramatic reconstructions, survivors of tiger and leopard attacks talk through their gut-wrenching encounters while experts explain the reasons why these predators are turning on people.
••”Paranormal Cops” (9:30 p.m. on A&E): In the season finale, a fellow police officer calls Ron and the team in to help uncover the mysteries surrounding his night job as a security guard at a banquet hall, where the investigators find there could be multiple spirits trying to communicate with the living.
••”Sesame Street” (9 a.m. on OETA-13): Celebrity guest Sarah Jessica Parker (“Sex and the City”) gets some help from Super Grover while she’s waiting for Big Bird. Debi Mazar (“Entourage”) presents the word on the street, which is “humungous.”
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 17, 2010
••”30 Bizarre Inventions” (7 p.m. on FLN): This special takes a look back at some of the more unique products that have been featured on television over the years.
••”CSI: NY” (9 p.m. on CBS): A big rig accident results in the discovery of an interstate trucking ring that specializes in human cargo and black market organ harvesting, which sets off a race against time to save a hostage. Laurence Fishburne (“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation”) guest stars.
••”American Idol” (8 p.m. on Fox): This season’s Top 24 semifinalists will be revealed.
••”Faces of America” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): The new installment “Becoming American” explores the diverse journeys of new arrivals during the “century of immigration.” Stephen Colbert’s (“The Colbert Report”) great-great-grandfather escapes poverty in Ireland, while chef Mario Batali’s great-grandfather struggles in Montana, and the great-grandfather of Queen Noor of Jordan settles in New York.
••”Human Target” (7 p.m. on Fox): Chance, Winston and Guerrero devise an elaborate plan to break into a maximum-security high-rise to rescue a computer genius (Kevin Weisman, “Alias”) being held against his will. Autumn Reeser (“The O.C.”), Mitch Pileggi (“The X-Files”) and Garcelle Beauvais-Niloon (“Eyes”) guest star.
••”The Inbetweeners” (8:30 p.m. on BBC America): In the Season 1 finale, four hapless heroes at Rudge Park Comprehensive all still trying to work out how to be cool. Season 2 begins Feb. 24.
••”Leverage” (9 p.m. on TNT): Surrounded by FBI, the team decides to hide in plain sight, while continuing to take down the corrupt mayor and his gunrunning partner. Little do they suspect that Nate has a different endgame in mind for them all in the Season 2 finale. Jeri Ryan (“Star Trek: Voyager”) and Richard Kind (“Spin City”) guest star.
••”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): Things should be dreamy at a Bahamas resort, where even Shakira (portraying herself) is staying, but Betty has a nightmarish photo shoot after Willie learns her nemesis, Penelope Graybridge (Christie Brinkley, “Vacation”), snagged a coveted job.
••”The View” (10 a.m. on ABC): Victoria Beckham (“Spice World”) makes her first appearance as a celebrity guest co-host. Her first guest appearance on show as a guest was September 2009.
••”The Woman Who Stops Traffic” (7 p.m. on Planet Green): In the series finale, the journey of professional trouble-shooter Kris Murrin concludes. She provides several services to get the residents of Durham walking, cycling and using public transport.
THURSDAY, FEB. 18, 2010
••”CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (9 p.m. on CBS): Catherine, Nick and the rest of the team help Langston investigate a prostitution ring that may have harbored a hostage he has been searching for in Miami and New York while delving into a human trafficking operation.
••”Grey’s Anatomy” (8 p.m. on ABC): In his new role as Chief, Derek restores the hospital lecture series, and Richard, Bailey and Callie present to the group pivotal surgical cases from their pasts. Sarah Paulson (“Down with Love”) and J. August Richards (“Raising the Bar”) guest star.
••”LA Ink” (9 p.m. on TLC): This docu-series following tattoo artist Kat Von D and her shop, High Voltage, continues to feature new great tattoos with compelling stories behind them. However, it’s not all fun and games as Kat is forced to really manage her business and her employees.
••”Private Practice” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): As Violet continues to help Sam with Maya’s wedding, Naomi refuses to take part as she works with Addison and Pete to save the life of a 25-week-old premature baby. Rosanna Arquette (“Pulp Fiction”), Sara Rue (“Eastwick”) and Bruno Campos (“Nip/Tuck”) guest star.
••”Reporter” (8:30 p.m. on HBO): This documentary follows New York Times columnist Nicholas Kristof as he goes in search of individuals whose stories reflect the desperate crisis unfolding in the war-torn Congo.
••”Sesame Street” (9 a.m. on OETA-13): Celebrity guest Paul Rudd (“Role Models”) plays a prince attempting to rescue a pengiun in distress. Eva Longoria (“Desperate Housewives”) presents the word on the street, which is “exquisite.”
FRIDAY, FEB. 19, 2010
••”Comedy Central Presents” (10 p.m. on Comedy Central): Comedians Tony Rock and Doug Williams are featured in back-to-back premiere episodes for Season 14 of the stand-up talent showcase.
••”The Life and Times of Tim” (8:30 p.m. on HBO): This animated comedy series, back for Season 2, follows Tim, a twentysomething New Yorker who has a habit of befriending unreliable characters who repeatedly get him into serious trouble.
••”Medium” (8 p.m. on CBS): When Allison develops a strange sensitivity to light, the sunglasses she wears reveal mysterious numbers that could tie into people’s life expectancies. Tom Verica (“American Dreams”) and Mitch Pileggi (“The X-Files”) guest star.
••”NUMB3RS” (9 p.m. on CBS): When two FBI agents are killed during a shootout with bank robbers, the team must investigate what exactly happened. Jordan Farmer (Los Angeles Lakers) guest stars.
••”Real Time With Bill Maher” (9 p.m. on HBO): Back for Season 8, this show allows host Bill Maher to offer his unique perspective on contemporary issues and includes an opening monologue, roundtable discussions with panelists and interviews with in-studio and satellite guests.
••”The Ricky Gervais Show” (8 p.m. on HBO): This new series animates podcasts voiced by Ricky Gervais, his longtime collaborator Stephen Merchant and friend Karl Pilkington, whose offbeat musings inspire many of the storylines. The podcasts, which first appeared on The Guardian website, earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for the most downloads.
SATURDAY, FEB. 20, 2010
••”NUMB3RS” (7 p.m. on CBS): Don and the team investigate a series of murders that they realize are being copied from scenes out of a soon-to-be-released movie. Adam Goldberg (“The Unusuals”) guest stars.
••“Precious: The Story Behind the Movie” (7 p.m. on TV Guide Network): This special documents the film’s journey from page to screen and includes never-before-seen film footage, interviews with the director and cast members, and reactions from filmgoers who have seen the movie and been touched by its story.
–Penny TV
Top 30 Guest Stars on TV Shows airing Feb. 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 Feb. 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
••Elizabeth Banks (“Scrubs”) on “30 Rock,” 8:30 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Kathy Bates (“The Blindside”) on “The Office,” 8 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Mayim Bialik (“Blossom”) on “The Secret Life of the American Teenager,” 7 p.m. Monday on ABC Family.
••Linda Blair (“The Exorcist”) on “Pit Boss,” 9 p.m. Saturday on Animal Planet.
••Jon Bon Jovi (“Ally McBeal”) on “30 Rock,” 8:30 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Barry Bostwick (“Spin City”) on “Cougar Town,” 8:30 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Benjamin Bratt (“Miss Congeniality”) on “Modern Family,” 9:30 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Deanne Bray (“Sue Thomas” F.B.Eye”) on “Heroes,” 8 p.m. Monday on NBC.
••David Brenner (“Worth Winning”) on “Modern Family,” 8 p.m. Wednesday on ABC.
••Gary Cole (“The West Wing”) on “NUMB3RS,” 9 p.m. Friday on CBS.
••Bob Eubanks (“The Newlywed Game”) on “Phineas and Ferb,” 8 a.m. Saturday on Disney XD.
••Scott Foley (“The Unit”) on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” 8 p.m. Wednesday on NBC.
••Jasmine Guy (“Dead Like Me”) on “The Vampire Diaries,” 7 p.m. Thursday on CW.
••Richard Kind (“Mad About You”) on “Leverage,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on TNT.
••Perry King (“Melrose Place”) on “Big Love,” 8 p.m. Sunday on HBO.
••Kristin Kreuk (“Smallville”) on “Chuck,” 7 p.m. Monday on NBC.
••John Larroquette (“Boston Legal”) on “Parks and Recreation,” 7:30 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Kristin Lehman (“Prison Break”) on “Human Target,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on Fox.
••Thad Luckinbill (“The Young and the Restless”) on “CSI: Miami,” 9 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••James McDaniel (“NYPD Blue”) on “The Good Wife,” 9 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Tim Meadows (“Saturday Night Live”) on “The New Adventures of Old Christine,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Jim Nantz (“NFL on CBS”) on “How I Met Your Mother,” 7 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Kevin Nealon (“Weeds”) on “Til Death,” 6 p.m. Sunday on Fox.
••Danica Patrick (race car driver) on “CSI: NY,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Amy Pietz (“Caroline in the City”) on “Medium,” 8 p.m. Friday on CBS.
••Kim Raver (“Lipstick Jungle”) on “Grey’s Anatomy,” 8 p.m. Thursday on ABC.
••Pamela Reed (“Jericho”) on “Parks and Recreation,” 7:30 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Elizabeth Rohm (“Law & Order”) on “Heroes,” 8 p.m. Monday on NBC.
••Antonio Sabato Jr. (“The Bold and the Beautiful”) on “CSI: NY,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on CBS.
••Phil Simms (“NFL on CBS”) on “How I Met Your Mother,” 7 p.m. Monday on CBS.
••Sissy Spacek (“Carrie”) on “Big Love,” 8 p.m. Sunday on HBO.
••Joe Spano (“NYPD Blue”) on “NCIS,” 7 p.m. Tuesday on CBS.
••Justin Theroux (“Tropic Thunder”) on “Parks and Recreation,” 7:30 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Joe Torre (Los Angeles Dodgers manager) on “Castle,” 9 p.m. Monday on ABC.
••James Van Der Beek, “Dawson’s Creek”) on “Mercy,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on NBC.
••Michael Weston (“Gamer”) on “House,” 7 p.m. Monday on Fox.
••Fred Willard (“Best in Show”) on “Modern Family,” 8 p.m. Sunday on ABC.
••Zack Woods (“The Honkys”) on “The Office,” 8 p.m. Thursday on NBC.
••Susan Yeagley (“I’m Not Gay”) on “Til Death,” 6 p.m. Sunday on Fox.
Pictured above: 30 ROCK — “Anna Howard Shaw Day” Episode 113 — Pictured: (l-r) — Photo by: Ali Goldstein/NBC
TV Premieres, Finales and Marathons airing Feb. 7-13 (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 Feb. 7 (as well as a few marathons).
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
••“Bathtastic,” 8:30 p.m. Sunday on DIY (third-season premiere).
••“Undervcover Boss,” 9 p.m. Sunday on CBS (series premiere).
••“Antiques Roadshow UK,” 3 p.m. Monday on BBC America (32nd-season premiere).
••“Winter Next X,” 4 p.m. Monday on Disney XD (series premiere).
••“Celebrity Fit Club: Boot Camp,” 8 p.m. Monday on VH1 (seventh-season premiere).
••“NFL Full Contact,” 9 p.m. Monday on truTV (series premiere).
••“Past Life,” 8 p.m. Tuesday on Fox (special preview, series premieres at 8 p.m. Thursday).
••“Faces of America,” 7 p.m. Wednesday on OETA-13 (series premiere).
••“Inside NASCAR,” 9 p.m. Wednesday on Showtime (series premiere).
••“Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains,” 7 p.m. Thursday on CBS (20th-season premiere).
••“Famous Crime Scene,” 8 p.m. Friday on VH1 (series premiere).
••“Kick Buttowski — Suburban Daredevil,” 7:30 a.m. Saturday on Disney XD (series premiere).
••“Survivors,” 7 p.m. Saturday on BBC America (series premiere).
ENDINGS
••“America’s Next Top Model Obsessed,” 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday on Oxygen.
••“Heroes,” 8 p.m. Monday on NBC (fourth-season finale).
••“Friday Night Lights,” 8 p.m. Wednesday on DirecTV (fourth-season finale).
••“The Haunted,” 9 p.m. Friday on Animal Planet (first-season finale).
••“Operation Wild,” 9 p.m. Friday on Planet Green (first-season finale).
MARATHONS
••“Jersey Shore,” 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday on MTV.
••“CSI,” noon Sunday to 3 a.m. Monday on SPIKE.
••“Last Restaurant Standing,” 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday on BBC America.
••“The Nanny,” 10 p.m. to midnight Monday through Feb. 14 on Nickelodeon.
Pictured above: PAST LIFE: Psychologist Dr. Kate McGinn (Kelli Giddish, second from L), Price Whatley (Nicholas Bishop, third from L), Dr. Malachi Talmadge (Richard Schiff, L) and Dr. Rishi Karna (Ravi Patel, R) investigate the world of the unexplained as they work together to solve decades-old mysteries in the new drama PAST LIFE premiering Thursday, Feb. 11, on FOX. Photo Credit: Jeremy Cowart/FOX
Top 55 TV Programs for Feb. 7-13, 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 Feb. 7:
NOTE: Times are CST (for EST, add one hour)
SUNDAY, FEB. 7, 2010
◊“Bathtastic”( 8:30 p.m. on DIY): Season 3 returns to inform viewers about new materials and offer design tips and know-how that will help revitalize any bathroom.
◊“Big Love” (8 p.m. on HBO): Bill pulls out all the stops in his efforts to win Paley’s support for the state senate nomination, while Nicki relishes her role as his campaign’s secret weapon. Sissy Spacek (“Carrie”) and Perry King (“Melrose Place”) guest star.
◊“Face the Nation” (9:30 a.m. on CBS): This installment anchored by Bob Schoeffer will air from the Sun Life Stadium in Miami, Florida. Guests will include NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, “The NFL on CBS” announcers Jim Nantz and Phil Simms, and “The NFL Today” analyst Shannon Sharpe.
◊“Masterpiece Classic” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): See how Jane Austen ties up the tangled affairs of her three heroines and two mystifying men in the final installment of “Emma.” Romola Garai (“Atonement”) stars as Emma.
◊“Modern Family” (9:30 p.m. on ABC): Gloria is less than pleased with Jay’s reaction to the arrival of Manny’s unreliable dad, Javier (Benjamin Bratt, (“Miss Congeniality”).
◊“Martin Clunes: A Man and His Dogs” (8 p.m. on Smithsonian Channel): This two-part program, which concludes Feb. 14, investigates the ancestry of dogs and what makes them man’s best friend.
◊“Puppy Bowl VI” (2 p.m. on Animal Planet): This alternative to the Super Bowl spotlights a bunch of pups frolicking in a stadium-shaped pen, with bunny cheerleaders on the sidelines and a halftime show featuring kittens. It airs multiple times for those who want to watch both the real game and this one.
◊“Street Fight” (7 p.m. on Documentary Channel): This documentary spotlights Cory Booker, a Yale Law graduate, as he takes on the the four-term mayor of Newark, N.J. The city’s political machine unleashes a campaign of harassment and voter intimidation, and the election unfolds amid accusations of terrorism, a Watergate-style burglary and sexual scandal.
◊“Super Bowl XLIV” (5:25 p.m. on CBS): Checotah native Carrie Underwood will sing the national anthem before the game kicks off between The New Orleans Saints and the Indianapolis Colts. The Who will take the stage during halftime to entertain the crowd inside Miami’s Dolphin Stadium and the millions of viewers at home.
◊“Til Death” (6 p.m. on Fox): When Joy urges Eddie to get a check-up from their doctor, Simona, Eddie becomes enamored with her, her husband and their seemingly perfect life. Kevin Nealon (“Weeds”) and Susan Yeagley (“I’m Not Gay”) guest star.
◊“Undercover Boss” (9 p.m. on CBS): In this new series, chief executives go incognito as regular workers in their own companies to see the effects their decisions have on others and get an up-close look at both the good and the bad while discovering the unsung heroes who make their company run. The opener features Larry O’Donnell, president of Waste Management.
MONDAY, FEB. 8, 2010
◊“American Experience: Bombing of Germany” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): British and American bombing of Germany during World War II claimed the lives of nearly half a million civilians. This installment examines the defining moments of the offensive that led the U.S. across a moral divide, and it includes interviews with World War II pilots and archival footage of the bombing and its aftermath.
◊“Antiques Roadshow” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): Among the items appraised in Hour Three from Atlantic City are a 1934 New York Yankees team-signed baseball, a 1900 folk art sculpture and an early 20th-century painting by George Bellows.
◊“Antiques Roadshow UK” (3 p.m. on BBC America): One of the United Kingdom’s longest-running shows begins its 32nd season. It’s part adventure, part history lesson and part treasure hunt, as it showcases treasures hidden in the back of closets and tucked away in attics.
◊“The Black List: Volume Three” (7:30 p.m. on HBO): Following the first two acclaimed editions of “The Black List,” this all-new documentary features black notables sharing candid stories and revealing insights into the struggles, triumphs and joys of black life in the U.S. Among those featured are director-producer Lee Daniels (“Precious”), Oscar winner Whoopi Goldberg (“Ghost”), Grammy winner John Legend and actors Hill Harper (“CSI: NY”) and LaTanya Richardson (“100 Centre Street”).
◊“Castle” (9 p.m. on ABC): A beloved former major league baseball player is found dead after a goodwill trip to Cuba. The investigation, which includes running into Joe Torre (guest starring as himself), leads the detectives into New York’s Cuban community to solve the murder.
◊“Celebrity Fit Club: Boot Camp” (8 p.m. on VH1): Battling the bulge this season are Bobby Brown (“Outsider’s Inn”), Jay McCarroll (“Project Runway” Season 1 winner), KayCee Stroh (“High School Musical”), Kevin Federline (“Britney & Kevin: Chaotic”), Nicole Eggert (“Baywatch”), Sebastian Bach (former lead singer of Skid Row), Shar Jackson (“Moesha”) and Tanisha Thomas (“Bad Girls Club”). The cast will be broken into two teams that will compete for $200,000 in cash and prizes, and the celebrity who drops the most weight will win $50,000 in prizes.
◊“Chuck” (7 p.m. on NBC): Chuck and Hannah (Kristin Kreuk, “Smallville”) unexpectedly become part of the latest mission of agent Daniel Shaw. Meanwhile, Morgan and Ellie continue their mission to get to the bottom of Chuck’s secretive and strange behavior.
◊“CSI: Miami” (9 p.m. on CBS): The CSIs solve the murder of a man who was killed in outer space. Thad Luckinbill (“The Young and the Restless”) guest stars.
◊“Heroes” (8 p.m. on NBC): In the climactic season finale, everyone bands together in an effort to stop Samuel from taking the lives of thousands. Elizabeth Rohm (“Law & Order”) and Deanne Bray (“Sue Thomas: F.B.Eye”) guest star.
◊“How I Met Your Mother” (7 p.m. on CBS): When Lily and Marshall forget to fix up Ted on a blind date for Valentine’s Day, they use one of Barney’s many discarded girls to see if they may become Ted’s future wife. CBS Sports Broadcaster Jim Nantz and Lead CBS NFL Analyst Phil Simms provide color commentary regarding Barney’s dating life.
◊“NFL Full Contact” (9 p.m. on truTV): This new series goes behind the scenes to see what it takes to pull off major NFL events. In the premiere episode, the worlds of football and entertainment collide as the NFL prepares for Kickoff 2009 with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Cameras follow security and staffers as they throw one of the biggest pre-game parties of the year.
◊“The Red Carpet Issue” (8 p.m. on Sundance Channel): This documentary looks at the transformation of the red carpet ceremony from a private event into a popular phenomenon and multi-million dollar business. It considers the risks and rewards – for designers, stylists, media outlets and celebrities – of playing the red carpet game.
◊“Savile Row” (7 p.m. on Sundance Channel): This new documentary series goes inside the venerable bespoke tailoring firms on and around this quiet street in London’s elegant Mayfair district. Over the course of three episodes, the series captures a milieu steeped in pride and tradition, where exquisite craftsmanship goes hand-in-hand with gentlemanly discretion.
◊“The Secret Life of the American Teenager” (7 p.m. on ABC Family): The new guy in Amy’s life doesn’t call after their first date, Adrian is ready to meet Ricky’s foster parents. Mayim Bialik (“Blossom”) guest stars in the episode directed by Barry Watson (“7th Heaven”).
◊“Skate for the Heart” (5 p.m. on Hallmark Channel): Olympic champion figure skaters Michelle Kwan and Peggy Fleming co-host this event to help raise awareness for heart disease. It features performances by “American Idol” Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks, the boy band Honor Society, the five-girl band KSM and a cast of Olympic, World and National figure skating champions.
◊“Winter Next X” (4 p.m. on Disney XD): This action-packed sports series features Winter X-Games athletes Simon Dumont, Andreas Wiig, Sammy Carlson and Chas Guldemond mentoring young amateur competitors in their chosen sport. The show will culminate with one amateur athlete being named the Winter Next X, and he or she will get the opportunity to showcase his or her action sports skills at Winter X Games 14.
TUESDAY, FEB. 9, 2010
◊“American Idol” (7 p.m. on Fox): Ellen DeGeneres joins judges Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi and host Ryan Seacrest in Hollywood to begin winnowing down the contestants.Hopefuls chosen from around the nation endure a grueling rehearsal schedule and pressure-packed auditions as they vie for a coveted spot among the Top 24.
◊“The Biggest Loser” (7 p.m. on NBC): Contestants head to Colorado Springs to train like Olympic athletes at the U.S. Olympic training facility. Olympians Julia Macuso (skier), Jeret “Speedy” Peterson (freestyle skier), J.R. Celski (speed skater), Rockne Brubaker (pairs figure skater) and Allison Jones (paralympic athlete) guest star.
◊“Business Model: Inside the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue” (8 p.m. on CNBC): CNBC business reporter Darren Rovell takes an unprecedented look inside the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, a multimedia franchise that has made more than 1 Billion dollars for its parent company Time Inc. It reveals how business, beauty, fashion and sports come together to create this franchise that alone generated 7 percent of Time Inc. News Group’s annual revenue in 2009.
◊“The Forgotten” (9 p.m. on ABC): When a young man falls to his death from atop a skyscraper, the Forgotten Network takes on the near impossible task of identifying him. Their efforts lead them into the world of “Parkour” or free running, where they learn John Doe may have recently returned to America after an extended stay abroad. Elisha Cuthbert (“24”) joins the series in a recurring role.
◊“Frontline” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): The new installment “Flying Cheap” looks at the crash of Continental 3407, the rise of regional and low-cost carriers and whether the aviation system is being stretched beyond its capacity to deliver service that is both cheap and safe.
◊“The Good Wife” (9 p.m. on CBS): As Alicia defends a husband accused of murdering the babysitter, she and her family prepare for the outcome of Peter’s appeal and his possible homecoming. James McDaniel (“NYPD Blue”) guest stars as the detective on the murder case.
◊“Independent Lens” (9:30 p.m. on OETA-13): The new documentary “P-Star Rising” follows Priscilla, who at 9 is pursuing her dream of being a rap star. She and her single dad and mentor, Jesse, are starting to reap the rewards of her ambition and talent — moving to a four-bedroom apartment and playing at sold-out clubs.
◊“Nova” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): The new installment “Extreme Cave Diving” follows Dr. Kenny Broad as he dives into blue holes — underwater caves that formed during the last ice age when sea level was nearly 400 feet below what it is today.
◊“Past Life” (8 p.m. on Fox): In the series preview, Dr. Kate McGinn and her partner, former New York police detective Price Whatley, attempt to help a teen suffering from regression episodes that include memories of kidnapping and murder from a past life.
◊“Valentino: The Last Emperor” (7 p.m. on Showtime): This 2008 documentary focuses on fashion designer Valentino Garavani — better known by his first name and his reputation as the creator of dresses for Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and others. The film crew follows Valentino at work and at home as he prepares for a 45th anniversary celebration of his work.
◊“Venom in Vegas” (7 p.m. on Animal Planet): This two-hour special recaps venom expert Donald Schultz’s 10-day stay in a glass box with 100 snakes. From Jan. 17 to 26, he ate, drank and slept alongside pythons, rattlesnakes and cobras in a glass enclosure situated on Las Vegas Boulevard.
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 10, 2010
◊“Cougar Town” (8:30 p.m. on ABC): When everyone else makes plans for Valentine’s Day, Jules looks to Grayson for company, only to learn he hates the holiday. Meanwhile, Laurie meets Smith’s dad (Barry Bostwick, “Spin City”).
◊“CSI: NY” (9 p.m. on CBS): Two days before a Grand Prix Race, when a racing legend dies in a car explosion on the streets of Manhattan, the CSIs discover that car tampering is the cause. Antonio Sabato Jr. (“The Bold and the Beautiful”) guest stars as the racing legend. Professional race car driver Danica Patrick guest stars as the racing legend’s top competitor.
◊“Faces of America” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): In earlier installments, Henry Louis Gates Jr. used DNA testing and genealogical research to help prominent black Americans trace their roots. In this new four-part series, he expands that concept to Americans from a variety of ethnic backgrounds. In the opener, he delves into the family histories of film director Mike Nichols, figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi and cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
◊“Friday Night Lights” (8 p.m. on DirecTV): In the Season 4 finale, Coach Taylor tells Vince that he has to be more selfish, Tim makes a difficult decision and East Dillon rallies around the Lions.
◊“Gary Unmarried” (7:30 p.m. on CBS): Gary got a great Valentine’s Day gift from Sasha, and now he has to come up with one for her that isn’t just great, but perfect.
◊“Human Target” (7 p.m. on Fox): Chance is hired to protect a district attorney who is running from her family’s past and marked for murder because of her investigation into an organized crime family. Kristin Lehman (“Prison Break”) guest stars.
◊“Inside NASCAR” (9 p.m. on Showtime): With a two-time Daytona 500 Champion (Michael Waltrip), a team owner (Brad Daugherty) and a life-long NASCAR insider (Randy Pemberton) serving as analysts, this new series will guide viewers through the ins and outs, the sudden turns and the high-octane drama of the racing season.
◊“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” (8 p.m. on NBC): A woman is found brutally murdered, and the main suspect is a recovering alcoholic who can’t remember what happened. Scott Foley (“The Unit”) guest stars.
◊“Leverage” (9 p.m. on TNT): While trying to take down a corrupt local mayor (Richard Kind, “Mad About You”) by exploiting his love of baseball, the team runs into an unexpected complication.
◊“Martha Stewart’s Top Wedding Tips” (7 p.m. on FLN): Martha Stewart shares her great ideas for creating a truly unique wedding, including finding the perfect dress, making your own save-the-date cards and more money-saving tips.
◊“Mercy” (7 p.m. on NBC): Chloe is put to the test in the fast-paced, high-stakes world of the ER after she and Angel get re-assigned by the arrogant new head of the ICU, Dr. Joe Briggs (James Van Der Beek, “Dawson’s Creek”).
◊“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 (“Worth Winning”) guest stars.
◊“The New Adventures of Old Christine” (7 p.m. on CBS): Christine is feeling envious of Richard and New Christine as they prepare for their new baby. She decides she wants one, too, and asks her ex to help. Tim Meadows (“Saturday Night Live”) guest stars as her gynecologist.
◊“We Heard the Bells: The Influenza of 1918″ (10 p.m. on OETA-13): S. Epatha Merkerson (“Law & Order”) narrates this documentary that explores the personal and family experiences of a diverse group of Americans during the influenza pandemic of 1918. Survivors of the pandemic tell their stories, including Oklahoman Annah Elnora Thurber, who survived the influenza in January 1919 in a farmhouse with no running water. Annah’s mother, pregnant with her fourth child, cared for eight very sick family members.
THURSDAY, FEB. 11, 2010
◊“30 Rock” (8:30 p.m. on NBC): To avoid feeling lonely on Valentine’s Day, Liz Lemon schedules a root canal but soon realizes she hasn’t thought it through. Elizabeth Banks (“Scrubs”) begins a multiple episode arc and Jon Bon Jovi (“Ally McBeal”) makes a cameo appearance.
◊“Grey’s Anatomy” (8 p.m. on ABC): It’s Valentine’s Day, and the doctors must treat dozens of injured people after the roof collapses at a popular romantic restaurant. Kim Raver (“Lipstick Jungle”) guest stars.
◊“In Performance at the White House” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): This concert hosted by President and Mrs. Obama in the East Room of the White House features musicians performing contemporary arrangements of music that galvanized the U.S. civil rights movement of the 1950s and ‘60s.
◊“The Office” (8 p.m. on NBC): The office is eager to welcome Sabre chief executive Jo Bennett (Kathy Bates, “The Blindside”) to Scranton, and they are dazzled by her Southern ways. Zack Woods (“The Honks”) also guest stars.
◊“Parks and Recreation” (7:30 p.m. on NBC): When Leslie hears her mom’s story about an old flame (John Larroquette, “Boston Legal”), she and her boyfriend track him down and reunite them on Valentine’s Day. Pamela Reed (“Jericho”) and Justin Theroux (“Tropic Thunder”) also guest star.
◊“Past Life” (8 p.m. on Fox): In the series premiere, the Talmadge Center team meets a young woman dealing with addiction whose regression episodes include graphic details of a violent crime scene.
◊“Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains” (7 p.m. on CBS): The 20th installment of the competitive reality series brings back 20 memorable players from past seasons. The Heroes team includes past winners James “JT” Thomas Jr. and Tom Westman, while the Villains have past Sole Survivors Parvati Shallow and Sandra Diaz-Twine.
◊“The Sword” (8 p.m. on Smithsonian Channel): This two-part program, which concludes Feb. 18, explores the violent virulent history of the sword and its emergence from a hunting tool to a symbol of power and justice.
◊“The Vampire Diaries” (7 p.m. on CW): When Stefan, Damon and Elena work with Bonnie and Grams (Jasmine Guy, “Dead Like Me”) to open the tomb, everyone is shocked by what they discover.
FRIDAY, FEB. 12, 2010
◊“XXI Winter Olympics” (6:30 p.m. on NBC: The two weeks of competition begin with the Opening Ceremonies from Vancouver, British Columbia. NBC has prepared its usual mix of event coverage and human interest segments for the duration.
◊“Famous Crime Scene” (8 p.m. on VH1): This new series takes an in-depth look at the untimely deaths of seven celebrities. Using expert interviews and true-to-life reenactments, viewers will tour virtual crime scenes searching for clues and learn the science behind the investigators’ findings. The murder of Tupac Shakur is investigated in the premiere episode.
◊“Ghost Whisperer” (7 p.m. on CBS): In this episode directed by series star Jennifer Love Hewitt, Melinda gives birth to a baby boy who also has the gift of seeing spirits but with one important difference that will have far-reaching consequences.
◊“Medium” (8 p.m. on CBS): Allison fears the worst about Ariel’s new boyfriend when she suspects him of murdering a man. Amy Pietz (“Caroline in the City”) guest stars as the mother of Ariel’s boyfriend in the episode directed by David Arquette (“In Case of Emergency”).
◊“NUMB3RS” (9 p.m. on CBS): Don and the team must protect high-profile activist Benjamin Polk at a political rally, but it soon becomes a manhunt when they search for a sniper trying to kill Polk. Gary Cole (“The West Wing”) guest stars as the man suspected of trying to hunt down the political activist.
◊“Operation Wild” (9 p.m. on Planet Green): When a hiker goes missing deep in a national park, officers for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission use helicopters, swamp buggies, ATVs and K-9 units to try to track and save him.
SATURDAY, FEB. 13, 2010
◊“Bill Maher… But I’m Not Wrong” (9 p.m. on HBO): Presented live from the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh, N.C., this special features Bill Maher’s typically fearless observations on a wide range of social and political issues. Among the topics Maher is expected to discuss in his ninth HBO solo special are whether the “Great Recession” is really over, the fake patriotism of the right wing and what goes on in the mind of a terrorist.
◊“Elevator Girl” (8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel): When a stuck elevator brings a free-spirited woman and an uptight lawyer together, they are faced with the reality that their separate worlds might be too different for their relationship to get off of the ground floor. Ryan Merriman (“Final Destination 3″) and Lacey Chabert (“Mean Girls”) star in this romantic comedy.
◊“Kick Buttowski — Suburban Daredevil” (7:30 a.m. on Disney XD): This new original 2-D animated series follows an extraordinary kid named Kick who is determined to become the world’s greatest daredevil. Small in stature but big in heart, Kick makes the most out of his suburban surroundings by devising such stunts as riding down Dead Man’s Drop on an ironing board or racing the school bus with a soda-powered jet pack. Oklahoma native Danny Cooksey (“Diff’rent Strokes”) provides the voice of Brad, Kick’s older brother.
◊“Phineas and Ferb” (8 a.m. on Disney XD): Major Monogram sends Agent P on a wild goose chase to find a missing agent, so Agent P enlists the help of a talk show host (Bob Eubanks, “The Newlywed Game”) to find him.
◊“Pit Boss” (9 p.m. on Animal Planet): Shorty turns to his old friend Linda Blair (“The Exorcist”) for help after rescuing 10 newborn pit bull puppies in danger of contracting a fatal disease.
◊“Survivors” (7 p.m. on BBC America): This new British series based on a book by Terry Nation focuses on the world in the aftermath of a virus where only a lonely few are left to start over in a devastated world where everything that was once safe and familiar is now strange and dangerous.
–Penny TV
