Program Planner | Television Blog

Program Planner: Jan. 4-10

Posted by television

on January 1, 2009 at 5:00 am

SUNDAY, JAN. 4
◊“Golden Globe Awards Preview With Joey Fatone” (7 p.m. on TV Guide Network): Arrive fashionably early to the most glamorous award shows in 2009 with Joey Fatone (”Dancing With the Stars”). He will be joined by Lisa Rinna (”Days of Our Lives”) for upcomning coverage, including “Countdown to the Golden Globe Awards” (3 p.m. Jan. 11), ◊“Live at the Golden Globe Awards” (5 p.m. Jan. 11) and “Golden Globe Awards Fashion Wrap With Lisa Rinna” (7 p.m. Jan. 12).
◊“Masterpiece Classic” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): Gemma Arterton (”Quantum of Solace”) stars in the new adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s novel “Tess of the D’Urbervilles” about a woman violated by one mand and forsaken by another. Hosting the new season of “Masterpiece Classic” is Emmy winner Laura Linney (”John Adams”).
◊“Running the Sahara” (8 p.m. on Showtime): Matt Damon (“The Bourne Ultimatum”) narrates and executive produces this documentary that chronicles three men’s historial quest across the Saraha Desert. It took them 111 days to trek 4,300 miles through six countries.
◊“Superstars of Dance” (8 p.m. on NBC): Michael Flatley (”Lord of the Dance”) and Susie Castillo (”House of Payne”) co-host this new competitive reality series that pits teams of dancers from eight countries — India, Argentina, Australia, Russia, Ireland, China, South Africa and the U.S. — against one another in a variety of dance styles. Each country’s team is made up of two solo dancers, a duo and a larger group.
◊“Ultimate Recipe Showdown” (8 p.m. on Food Network): Guy Fieri (”The Next Food Network Star”) is back for Season 2 of the series in which a new batch of home cooks put their prized personal recipes to the test. Each week’s winner will receive $25,000 and the chance to have his or her recipe featured nationwide at TGI Friday’s restaurants.

MONDAY, JAN. 5
◊“Antiques Roadshow” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): Season 13 opens with one of the most valuable object ever appraised on the show. It is a 1937 oil painting by noted abstract expressionist Clyfford Still worth $500,000. It was received as a housewarming gift.
◊“The Bachelor” (7 p.m. on ABC): Jason Mesnick, the first single dad in “Bachelor” history, gets a second chance at love when the 13th edition of the romance reality series begins. In last season’s finale of “The Bachelorette,” DeAnna Pappas rejected his proposal.
◊“Daddy’s Girls: From Run’s House to Our House” (9:30 p.m. on MTV): Over the course of five seasons, viewers have watched Vanessa and Angela Simmons grow up on “Run’s House.” This new series focuses on the Simmons Sisters as they take a major step toward independence by moving to Los Angeles and working on their already successful apparel line, Pastry.
◊“Diet Tribe” (9 p.m. on Lifetime): This new five-episode series follows five best friends who have made a commitment to lose weight together. Fitness trainer Jessie Pavelka and psycholotherapist Stacy Kaiser lend their expertise.
◊“Masters of Illusion” (8 p.m. on My Network TV): This new series will feature non-stop magic from the world’s greatest illusionists. All acts were filmed in front of an audience without camera or computer tricks.
◊“The Secret Life of the American Teenager” (8 p.m. on ABC Family): The show’s second season opens with the wedding of Amy and Ben,
while Anne tells George she wants a divorce.
◊“The Story of India” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): In this new miniseries, historian Michael Wood introduces viewers to India’s sights, sounds, people, places and history.
◊“True Beauty” (9 p.m. on ABC): This new competitive reality series features six women and four men competing for the title of most beautiful. What they don’t know is that they’re being judged on their inner beauty as much as their looks. Vanessa Minnillo (The Bold and the Beaituful”) is host and serves on the judges panel with Cheryl Tiegs (”Just Shoot Me!”) and Nole Marin (”America’s Next Top Model”).
◊The University of Oklahoma takes on Maryland Eastern Shore in men’s college basketball action airing live at 7 p.m. on FSOK

TUESDAY, JAN. 6
◊“10 Items or Less” (10 p.m. on TBS): Shot on location in a real, working grocery store in Reseda, Calif., this series combines improvisation with a loose script as it delves into the offbeat lives of Greens & Grains employees. The third-season premiere episode will air commercial free.
◊“The Biggest Loser: Couples” (7 p.m. on NBC): It’s the biggest season ever, as 11 couples begin the seventh edition with a combined weight of more than 3.5 tons. Teams of two – including mother/daughter, father/son, sisters, best friends, grandparents, cousins, an engaged couple and former models – come together hoping to transform their bodies, their health and their lives.
◊“Dirty Jobs” (8 p.m. on Discovery): Host Mike Rowe, who travels the country to showcase jobs that most people would go out of their way to avoid, opens Season 5 with a visit to a bologna factory.
◊“Homeland Security USA” (7 p.m. on ABC): This new series gives viewers an unprecedented look at the agencies and people who protect our country. Each episode covers eight or more locations on the “front lines” where the officers and agents work each day.
◊“Lost Tapes” (9 p.m. on Animal Planet): This new series brings the experience of first-person encounters with bizarre animals to viewers. The premiere episodes feature “Swamp Creature” and “Monster of Monterey.”
◊“Nip/Tuck” (9 p.m. on FX): Earlier this season, plastic surgeons Dr. Sean McNamara and Dr. Christian Troy departed Miami for Los Angeles seeking a fresh start. As Season 5 continues, McNamara/Troy faces an unexpected medical crisis.
◊“Primetime” What Would You Do?” (9 p.m. on ABC): From light-hearted situations like missing out on a supermarket prize to potentially life-threatening scenarios where people are faced with how to handle a baby left alone in a hot car, this new series will look at what people actually do in the face of everyday dilemmas.
◊“Scrubs” (8 p.m. on ABC): The medical comedy moves from NBC to ABC for its eighth season, which opens with bac-to-back episodes. In the premiere, Dr. Kelso’s beautiful but unethical replacement, Dr. Maddox (Courteney Cox, “Friends”), shakes things up at Sacred Heart.
◊“Vice Squad” (8 p.m. on My Network TV): This new series features exclusive ride-along access with local police agencies across the country as they take down real-life criminals involved in the world of narcotics, prostitution and gambling. Viewer are let in on everything from the plan, to the tactic and ultimately, the arrest of hardened criminals.
◊“Without a Trace” (9:01 p.m. on CBS): Cast member Marianne Jan-Baptiste (Vivian Johnson) directs this episode in which the team investigates a kidnapping after a teen, last seen with her mother, vanishes.
◊Mustang takes on Edmond Santa Fe in high school basketball action airing live at 6:30 p.m. (girls) and 8 p.m. (boys) on Cox-3.
◊“Wreckreation Nation” (9 p.m. on Discovery): Host Dave Mordal (“Last Comic Standing” finalist) travels the country to compete in events like fruitcake chucking, lawnmower racing and catfish wrangling.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 7
◊The 35th Annual People’s Choice Awards (8 p.m. on CBS): Queen Latifah (”Chicago”) hosts the event, but fan votes determine the winners of the awards that cover movies, music and television. Carrie Underwood from Checotah is up for three awards and the musical group Rascal Flatts, featuring guitarist Joe Don Rooney from Picher, has two nominations.
◊“13 — Fear is Real” (7 p.m. on CW): This new horror reality series chronicles 13 people as they compete to “stay alive” while facing their deepest fears.
◊“Barbara Walters Special” (9 p.m. on ABC): Patrick Swayze gives his first interview since his pancreatic cancer diagnosis became public. The 56-year-old actor and his wife, Lisa Niemi, chat with Barbara Walters from their California ranch.
◊“Damages” (9 p.m. on FX): Oscar winners William Hurt (“Kiss of the Spider Woman”) and Marcia Gay Harden (“Pollock”) join the cast of the show for its second season. The series, which also stars Emmy winners Glenn Close and Zeljko Ivanek, follows the lives of high-stales litigator Patty Hewes and her protoge Ellen Parsons.
◊“Great Performances” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): This production of “Cyrano de Bergerac” had a limited run on Broadway about a year ago. It stars Oscar winner Kevin Kline (“A Fish Called Wanda”) as the warrior with the big nose who uses words to woo Roxane (Jennifer Garner, “Alias”).
◊“Meet the Browns” (9 p.m. on TBS): This spin-off is based on characters from Tyler Perry’s popular movie and play. David Mann (”Madea’s Family Reunion”) stars as the fun-loving but sometimes crass “Downtown” Leroy Brown trying to fulfill his father’s last request by opening a retirement home.
◊“The Real World: Brooklyn” (9 p.m. on MTV): Season 21 sets up residence in Brooklyn with eight new roommates. Cameras will track their every move as they descover who they really are and how false first impressions may be.

THURSDAY, JAN. 8
◊The 14th Annual Critics’ Choice Awards (8 p.m. on VH1): The Broadcast Film Critics Association honors the year’s finest achievements in cinema. The films “Milk” and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” both received eight nominations. The rock band Rooney will serve as this year’s house band for the event.
◊“30 Rock” (8:31 p.m. on NBC): Jack makes a connection with his mother’s nurse, Elisa (Salma Hayek, “Frida”) and helps Tracy and wife Angie (Sherri Shepherd, “The View”) arrange a “post-nup.”
◊TCM Birthday Tribute: Elvis Presley was born on this day in 1935, and TCM celebrates by airing six of his films, including 1958’s “King Creole” (6:30 a.m.) and 1961’s Blue Hawaii” (10:15 a.m.).
◊“Ugly Betty” (7 p.m. on ABC): Betty struggles to impress her idol, Jodie Papadakis (Bernadette Peters, “Living Proof”), the editor running YETI. But things go from bad to worse when she encounters Teri (Nikki Blonsky, “Hairspray”), an assistant an ELLE magazine.

FRIDAY, JAN. 9
◊“Flashpoint” (8 p.m. on CBS):Returning for Season 2 is this drama inspired by the Toronto police’s Emergency Task Force. It centers on a superelite team of police officers who handle the most delicate cases.
◊“Howie Do It” (7 p.m. on NBC): Howie Mandel (”Deal or No Deal”) hosts this new hidden camera series in which he plays hoaxes on unsuspecting citizens.
◊“Lipstick Jungle” (8 p.m. on NBC): Nico asks Dahlia (Rosie Perez, “Pineapple Express”) to help boost her proffesional status and lands her a guest appearance on the “Today” show with Kathie Lee Gifford and Hoda Kotb.
◊“Miss America: Countdown to the Crown” (9 p.m. on TLC): All 52 of the Miss America contestants move into the Queen Mary ocean-liner and compete in a series of team and individual challenges. In the final challenge, viewers will vote four girls into the pageant’s Top 15.
◊“Stargate Atlantis” (8 p.m. on SCI FI): In the final episode of this spinoff from ‘‘Stargate: SG-1,” the Atlantis team races the clock to destroy an advanced wraith hive ship that’s threatening Earth.

SATURDAY, JAN. 10
◊“Animal Planet Sporthorse Cup” (2 p.m. on Lifetime): This all-star event features a three-round show jumping competition designed for television. Competing will be a limited invitational all-star field of international competitors and horses.
◊“Expecting a Miracle” (8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel): Jason Priestley (”Love Monkey”) and Teri Polo (”Meet the Parents”) star as a couple who take an unexpected detour to a small town in Mexico that discover it is exactly where they need to be.
◊The University of Oklahoma takes on Kansas State in men’s college basketball action airing live at 12:30 p.m. on KOCB-34.
◊Oklahoma State University takes on Iowa State in women’s college basketball action airing live at 3 p.m. on FSOK.
◊The University of Oklahoma takes on Nebraska in women’s college basketball action airing live at 7 p.m. on KAUT-43.
◊Oklahoma State University takes on Texas A&M in men’s college basketball action airing live at 8 p.m. on ESPNU.
– Penny TV

comments

Program Planner: Dec. 28-Jan. 3

Posted by television

on December 28, 2008 at 9:30 am

SUNDAY, DEC. 28
◊“Cold Case” (8 p.m. on CBS): The team searches for a serial bomber whose latest pipe bomb maimed the wrong target and whose three previous bombings, in 1999, 2001 and 2003, collectively blinded a man and killed two others. Timothy Omundson (”Jericho”) guest stars as the missed targtet of the latest bombing.
◊“Nick News With Linda Ellerbee” (8 p.m. on Nickelodeon): The new installment “Boys and Girls: In a Class of Ther Own?” visits several schools to get the students’ view on whether a single gender education is better.
◊“Summer Heights” (9:30 p.m. on HBO): In the first-season finale, Mr. G revels in the premiere of his musical and Jonah gives a gift to the students and teachers of Summer Heights High as the semester ends.

MONDAY, DEC. 29
◊“100 Greatest Hard Rock Songs” (9 p.m. today through Friday on VH1): In addition to counting down the 100 best guitar-driven, head-banging jams in rock history, this five-night compilation will feature updates on where various rock idols are today.
◊“The City” (9 p.m. on MTV): Whitney Port (“The Hills”) chases big dreams in the Big Apple in this new reality series. She strikes out on her own for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work at global design house Diane Von Furstenberg in New York City.
◊“Greatest Holiday Moments: Hilarious Home Video Countdown” (7 p.m. on NBC): This special will rank the best amateur footage America has to offer, from memorable moments to classic Christmas chaos.
◊“Le Cirque: A Table in Heaven” (7 p.m. on HBO): This new documentary tells the story of one of New York’s premier restaurants, which has occupied three different Manhattan locations since opening in 1974.
◊“Momma’s Boys” (9 p.m. on NBC): Food Network chef Tyler Florence presents the women with their next suitability challenge – a cooking competition in which they must make either the boys’ favorite meal or impress them with their own personal recipes.
◊“Ron Howard: 50 Years in Film” (7 p.m. on TCM): Oklahoma-born Ron Howard, who went from child star (”The Andy Griffith Show”) to Oscar-winning director (”"A Beautiful Mind”) sits down with film critic and documentarian Richard Schickel (”Spielberg on Spielberg”) for an in-depth interview. The special will be followed by an airing 1977’s “Grand Theft Auto,” which was Howard’s directorial debut.

TUESDAY, DEC. 30
◊“The 31st Annual Kennedy Center Honors” (8 p.m. on CBS): Caroline Kennedy returns as host of the event that recognizes recipients for their lifetime contributions to American culture through the performing arts. This year’s recipients are actor Morgan Freeman, country singer George Jones, choreographer Twyla Tharp, Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey of the Who, and singer-actress-producer-director Barbra Streisand.
◊“Happy New Year, Charlie Brown” (7 p.m. on ABC): Chad Allen (”Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman”) provides the voice of Charlie Brown in this 1986 “Peanuts” special. Over Christman break, Charlie Brown has to read “War and Peace” and write a report out it, But holiday distractions keep getting in the way.
◊“Leverage” (9 p.m. on TNT): To retrieve the money promised to the family of an innocent man who took the fall for a Mafia boss, the Leverage team poses as the wedding planners for the don’s only daughter on her big day. Dan Lauria (”The Wonder Years”) and Nicole Sullivan (”The King of Queens”) guest star.
◊“One Life to Live” (1 p.m. on ABC): The rock band Puddle of Mud will help the citizens of Llanview ring in the New Year with a performance of their hit single, “We Don’t Have to Look Back Now.” Lead singer Wes Scantlin will also act in scenes with Rex and Gigi.
◊“Rudolph’s Shiny New Year” (7:30 p.m. on ABC): The world’s most famous reindeer must help find Baby New Year before midnight. Red Skelton (“Three Little Words”), Frank Gorshin (“Batman”) and Morey Amsterdam (“The Dick Van Dyke Show”) provide voices for characters.
◊The University of Oklahoma takes on Arkansas in men’s college basketball airing live at 7 p.m. on KAUT-43.
Games from the boys high school basketball Tournament of Champions will air live at 6:30 p.m. on Cox.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 31
◊“NBC’s New Year’s Eve With Carson Daly” (9 p.m. on NBC): The fifth-annual event, which will be broadcast for the first time with one hour airing in primetime and one hour in late night, will feature performances by Elton John, Ludacris, Katy Perry, The Ting Tings and T.I. NBC News correspondent Luke Russert and Saturday “Today” co-anchor Amy Robach will report from various locations.
◊“Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest” (9 p.m. on ABC): Co-hosts (and executive producers) Dick Clark and Ryan Seacrest will lead America into the New Year with three-and-a-half hours of specials and the famous countdown to midnight from New York City’s Time Square. Kellie Pickler (”American Idol”) will be the Times Square correspondent, Fergie will host the West Coast party. Scheduled performers include Jonas Brothers, Taylor Swift, Natasha Bedingfield, Fall Out Boys, Jesse McCartney, Ne-Yo, Pussycat Dolls, Solange, Lionel Richie, will.i.am and Robin Thicke.
◊“Live From Lincoln Center” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): The New York Philmarhomic ushers in 2009 with mezzo-soprano Susan Graham. Renee Fleming hosts the show, which marks Maestro Lori Maazel’s last as music director of the Philharmonic.
◊“Lucy’s New Year’s Eve Countdown” (7 a.m. on TV Land): This 13-hour marathon will feature the top “I Love Lucy” episodes that were voted on by viewers — from from Lucy’s “Vitameatavegamin” commercial to Lucy and Ethel’s candy factory debacle.
◊“New Year’s Eve Live” (11 p.m. on Fox): Spike Feresten (”Talkshow With Spike Feresten”) and Mark Thompson (”Hole in the Wall”) co-host the celebration live from the Mirage in Las Vegas. “American Idol” Season 7 winner David Cook and Grammy-winning musician Scott Sweiland are scheduled to perform, while daredevil Robbie Knievel will attempt a 200-foot motorcycle jump over Mirage’s renovated volcano.
◊New Year’s Eve Live With Anderson Cooper and Kathy Griffin” (10 p.m. on CNN): The CNN host and the comedienne will report on celebrations worldwide. Musical guests will include Li’l Wayne, My Morning Jacket, Coolio, 3 Doors Down and the Oklahoma band Hinder.
◊“Red Bull: New Year: New Year. No Limits” (10 p.m. on ESPN): The sports network will air two stunts live from Las Vegas. Rhys Millen will attempt to do a complete back-flip of an off-road truck, while Robbie Maddison will try to land his motorcycle on top of the Arc de Triomphye replica in front of the Paris Las Vegas Hotel.
◊“Totally New Year” (5 p.m. on Disney): “Wizards of Waverly Place” cast members Selena Gomez, David Henrie, Jake T. Austin and Jennifer Stone will co-host this 6 1/2-hour programming block that will feature viewers’ favorite Disney Channel episodes, moments and music videos.

THURSDAY, JAN. 1
◊“The 120th Tournament of Roses Parade” (10 a.m. on NBC and HGTV): This year’s theme is ‘‘Hats Off to Entertainment,” and the grand marshal is Oscar- and Emmy-winning actress Cloris Leachman. Al Rocker (”Today”) and Nancy O’Dell (”Access Hollywood”) co-host NBC’s coverage. Gardening expert Paul James from Tulsa will be part of HGTV’s broadcast team.
◊“Cinema’s Exiles: From Hitler to Hollywood” (8:30 p.m. on OETA-13): Sigourney Weaver (“Aliens”) narrates this documentary about the German film professionals who fled Hitler’s Germany and escaped to Hollywood.
◊“Dear Genevieve” (noon on HGTV): Get a sneak peek at the new series featuring popular designer Genevieve Gorder (”Trading Spaces”). She will delve into viewer-submitted emails and demonstrate the answers in-person for a lucky online user who submitted his or her design dilemma to www.HGTV.com/deargenevieve/. The series will air Mondays at 7:30 p.m. beginning Jan. 5.
◊“Great Performances” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): Julie Andrews (”The Sound of Music”) hosts the 25th annual holiday celebration with the Vienna Philharmonic.
◊“Desperate To Buy” (2 p.m. on HGTV): This new docu-drama follows desperate homebuyers and their real estate broker through the high-stress process of finding the perfect home fast. The series will air Wednesdays at 9:30 p.m. beginning at Jan. 7.
◊“HGTV Dream Home 2009″ (8 p.m. on HGTV): This special offers a private tour inside this year’s luxurious HGTV Dream Home, located in Sonoma, Calif.
◊“Income Property” (3 p.m. on HGTV): Renovation expert Scott McGillivray hosts this new series that will help homeowners with high mortgage payments and low cash flow create “rental suites” in their homes as a way to help cut monthly expenses. The series will air Wednesdays at 8:30 p.m. beginning Jan. 7.
◊“The Property Shop” (9 p.m. on HGTV): This new series follows Realtor-turned-broker Tatiana Londono as she competes head-to-head with major real estate agencies to rise to the top of the real estate world. The series will air Thursdays at 9:30 p.m. beginning Jan. 8.
◊“The Unsellables” (1 p.m. on HGTV): In this new series, property guru and British TV personality Sofie Allsopp, along with contractor Anthony Sayers, will show viewers how to tackle cluttered kitchens, messy bedrooms and outdated design to create real estate gems out of homes considered “unsellable.” The series will air Fridays at 9:30 p.m. beginning Jan. 9.

FRIDAY, JAN. 2
◊“Blame It on Fidel” (9 p.m. on Sundance): Set in Paris in 1970, this insightful comedy unfolds from the perspective of Anna, 9, who has to make adjustments when her parents plunge full-time into leftist activism.
◊“Everybody Hates Chris” (7 p.m. on CW): Chris is determined to spend New Year’s Eve in Times Square, but Rochelle says Chris can only go if he finds a responsible adult to accompany him. The only problem is that the only people Chris can find to be his chaperone are two ex-convicts, Peaches (Tisha Campbell-Martin, “Rita Rocks”) and Malvo (Ricky Harris, “Moesha”).
◊“The Game” (8:30 p.m. on CW): Tasha and Malik are totally freaked out when it is accidentally revealed that Tasha’s boyfriend, Rick (Rick Fox, “Dirt”), and Malik’s wife, Robin (Robin Givens, “Courthouse”), have a past together.
◊“Janis Ian Love From Grand Center” (9 p.m. on OETA-13): The Grammy winner performs 15 songs from her 40-year career. The special also features archival footage, including Ian singing “Society’s Child” at age 15.
◊“NUMB3RS” (9 p.m. on CBS): Don and the team come under pressure when a former FBI subcontractor (Enrico Colantoni, “Veronica Mars”) shoots an agent inside the FBI headquarters and takes one of their own as a hostage, leaving them with a severely restricted plan of action.

SATURDAY, JAN. 3
◊“Everyday Food” (10 a.m. on OETA-13): Back for a fifth season are the show’s five hosts who present step-by-step instruction of reciped featured in Everyday Food magazine.
◊“Game Show in My Head” (7 p.m. on CBS): Joe Rogan (”Fear Factor”) hosts this new hidden camera game show in which contestants compete for the chance to win $50,000 by completing outrageous challenges in public.
◊“Huntik” (9:30 a.m. on CW): This new animated series focuses on a group of seekers who travel the world in search of an ancient amulet with the power to control monsters.
◊“Nanny Express” (8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel): Vanessa Marcil (“Las Vegas”) is a nanny with a knack for healing a hurting family in this new movie that co-stars Dean Stockwell (“Quantum Leap”), Stacy Keach (“Prison Break”) and Brennan Elliott (“Strong Medicine”).
◊“RAH! Paula Abdul’s Cheerleading Bowl” (11 a.m. on MTV): This 90-minute special spotlights five collegiate squads hand-selected by Paula Abdul (former Los Angeles Laker Girl) as they travel to New York City to compete in the ultimate cheerleading competition.
◊“Underdog to Wonderdog” (7 p.m. on Animal Planet): This new series follows the Doggie Wonder Team made up of a trainer, groomer, carpenter and host, as they use their canine expertise to revamp down-on-their-luck shelter pups just in time to place them in a good home.
◊“Smother” (8 p.m. on Lifetime): After losing his job, a man (Dax Shepard) deals with pressure from his wife (Liv Tyler), who wants to have a child, and from his mother (Diane Keaton), who moves in.

–Penny TV

comments

Program Planner: Dec. 21-27

Posted by television

on December 18, 2008 at 9:00 am

SUNDAY, DEC. 21
◊“America’s Funniest Home Videos” (6 p.m. on ABC): Holiday-themed clips include a montage of Santa mishaps (26 Santa falls in 35 seconds) and a boy who loses some loose teeth when he tries to open gift wrapping with his mouth.
◊“A Christmas Proposal” (8 p.m. on Lifetime): Nicole Eggert (”Baywatch”) and Tom Arnold (”Roseanne”) star in this 2008 holiday film about an attorney who will do whatever it takes to stop the demolition of the small ski town of Fillmore.
◊“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (7 p.m. on ABC): Host Ty Pennington and his crew rescue an animal-loving Wyoming family from their toxic home filled with life-threatening radon gases. Pro soccer player David Beckham presents a soccer scholarship to a member of the family, and singer Wynonna performs for the volunteers.
◊“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (8 p.m. on ABC): The Jonas Brothers (“Living the Dream”) and Cincinnati Reds pitcher Bronson Arroyo make an appearance in the “Akers Family” episode. Two of the Akers girls were diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy, and the “Home” crew builds a more accessible home for them.
◊“Million Dollar Password” (7 p.m. on CBS): The modern update of the classic game show returns for a second season with Regis Philbin as host. William Shatner (”Boston Legal”) and Aisha Tyler (”Ghost Whisperer”) are the celebrity players in the season premiere.
◊“Skins” (9 p.m. on BBC America): In the first-season finale, it’s the day of gang’s exam results and Chris’s funeral. They have all made a pact not to look at their grades until after they’ve said goodbye to Chris.

MONDAY, DEC. 22
◊“Antiques Roadshow” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): The special edition “Roadshow Remembers” celebrates the best appraisals of the show’s first decade, including a collection of original Franki Lloyd Wright sketches and planning documents valued between $100,000 and $125,000.
◊“Christmas at Luther: Night of Glory, Dawn of Peace” (9 p.m. on OETA-13): The symphony orchestra, hand bell choir and Christmas Brass and Percussion Ensemble from Luther College in Iowa perform holiday favorites in this annual holiday concert.
◊“Forbes’ Celebrity 100 2008: Who Made Bank” (9:30 p.m. on E!): Forbes Magazine picks its top 100 stars, ranking them according to income, web hits and pop culture popularity in the year ending June 2008.
◊“The Hills” (9 p.m. on MTV): When Lauren and Heidi have a run-in, they put their feud aside and remember why they used to be friends on the fourth-season finale. It is followed by a live “after show” featuring a performance by The Pussycat Dolls.
◊“Jesus in India” (8 p.m. on Sundance): This new documentary explores questions surrounding Jesus’ whereabouts from the ages of 12 to 30. It also delves into the legend that Jesus survived the crucifixion and secretly returned to India, where he lived out his days.
◊“The Life a House Built: The 25th Anniversary of the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): This new documentary celebrates the quarter century that the former president and his wife have spent working with Habitat for Humanity, which uses volunteer labor from the community to build homes for the needy.
◊“Momma’s Boys” (8 p.m. on NBC): Dana White, Ultimate Fighting Championship president, and some of the UFC’s top trainers and fighters put the 32 women through a demanding challenge as the Moms look on to determine which of the young women are the best mates for their sons.
◊“Prison Break” (8 p.m. on Fox): In the show’s fall finale, Lincoln and his new partners arrive in Miami to recover Scylla from its shocking new owner, and Sarah searches for a missing Michael, who learns some surprising information about his past.
◊“UFC 92 Countdown” (10 p.m. on SPIKE): This special provides a glimpse into the preparation and training camps of the fighters set to headline the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
◊The University of Oklahoma takes on Rice in men’s college basketball action airing live at 7 p.m. on FSOK.

TUESDAY, DEC. 23
◊10th Annual A Home for the Holidays With Faith Hill (7 p.m. on CBS): The country singer will host the latest edition of the annual special that advocates adoption. Other performers include Melissa Etheridge, Jamie Foxx and Tim McGraw. Presenting stories about foster care adoption will be Kristin Chenoweth (“Pushing Daisies”), Patricia Heaton (“Everybody Loves Raymond”) and Martin Short (“Saturday Night Live”).
◊“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (7 p.m. on ABC): The original 1966 animated special featuring Boris Karloff as the narrator and The Grinch, will air with additional footage from a “making of” documentary. Among those interviewed for the documentary was Theodore “Dr. Seuss” Geisel.
◊“Frank TV” (10 p.m. on TBS): Impressionist Frank Caliendo spoofs Donald Trump taking over Tom Hanks’ role in Forrest Gump, William Shatner trying to weasel his way into the new “Star Trek” movie and Jack Nicholson following up his sorority pillow-fight workout video with a sorority pillow-fight kit.
◊“Funniest Commercials of the Year: 2008″ (8 p.m. on TBS): Kevin Nealon (”Weeds”) returns as host for the fourth annual event that features up to 50 spots, 10 of which were voted as the year’s best commercials.
◊“Independent Lens” (10 p.m. on OETA-13): “Grey Gardens: From East Hampton to Broadway” traces the impact of the lives of Edith Bouvier Beale and her daughter, “Little Edie,” on art, fashion and popular culture.
◊“Rediscovered” (8 p.m. on ABC): The producers of this new special went through decades of audition tapes from young hopefuls and brought five of them, now grown, to Los Angeles for another chance to show their stuff. Donny and Marie Osmond host the special, which also has clips from the very early work of Britney Spears and others who did make it big.
◊“ABC’s The List” (9 p.m. on ABC): Australia’s popular TV personality Rove Hough will host this new special that will take viewers on a funny, informative and provocative countdown through everything that’s happening in the world of entertainment and pop culture.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 24
◊“A Christmas Story” (7 p.m. on TBS): This 1983 comedy will air nonstop for the next 24 hours. Peter Billingsley stars as Ralphie, whose desire for a Red Ryder BB gun leads to hilarious complications. It is based on the writings of Jean Shepherd, who also narrates the movie.
◊“Christmas on Mars” (11 p.m. on Sundance): This unconventional holiday film from the Oklahoma-based art-rock group The Flaming Lips makes its world television premiere. The Flaming Lips frontman Wayne Coyne directed the film with Bradley Beesley and George Salisbury and wrote the screenplay.
◊“Christmas With the Mormon Tabernacle Choir” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): The King’s Singers, England’s premier vocal choral ensemble, join the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra for a Christmas celebration.
◊“It’s a Wonderful Life” (7 p.m. on NBC): This 1946 holiday classic stars James Stewart as the financially ruined family man who wants to end it all … until an apprentice angel (Henry Travers) shows him how much worse off the world would be without him.
◊“Yule Log: The Golden Age of Christmas” (8 p.m. on WGN): Listen to nine hours of classic radio programs while watching the flames burn on the Yule Long hearth. Among the radio versions of classic Christmas programs are “Burns & Allen,” “Fibber McGee & Molly” and “The Great Gildersleeve.”

THURSDAY, DEC. 25
◊“2 Movie Guys Holiday Countdown Spectacular” (6:30 p.m. on KFOR-4, 9 p.m. on KAUT-43): Ryan and Lucas host a half-hour holiday special featuring appearances by Oklahoma celebrities, including the All American Rejects, the OKC Thunder Girls, Count Gregore, Jason White, Bart Connor and Nadia Comaneci.
◊“Hallmark Heroes With Regis Philbin” (7 p.m. on Hallmark): This new special honors ordinary people with extraordinary hearts. Jane Seymour (“Dear Prudence”) is also recognized for her effort on behalf of the Measles Initiative of the American Red Cross.
◊“Heroes at Home” (7 p.m. on My Network TV): In this special, six veterans of the war in Iraq — five men and one woman — share their experiences. All were injured in the line of duty and are struggling to put their lives back together and care for their families.
◊“The Price Is Right” (10 a.m. on CBS): A repeat of the show’s 2007 Christmas episode.
◊“Supernatural” (8 p.m. on CW): It’s Christmas time, and Sam and Dean investigate a series of murders where the victims were pulled up through the chimney.
◊“Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade” (9 a.m. on ABC): Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa (”Live With Regis and Kelly”) co-host the festivities from Orlando, Fla., while Ryan Seacrest (”American Idol”) handles the duties at Disney World’s Calfornia counterpart. Scheduled performers during the 25th annual parade are Miley Cyrus (”Hannah Montana”), Tulsa resident David Cook (”American Idol”) and the Jonas Brothers (”Camp Rock”).
◊TCM Birthday Tribute: Humphrey Bogart was born on this day in 1899, and TCM celebrates by airing five of his films, including 1942’s “Casablanca” (7 p.m.) and 1941’s “The Maltese Falcon” (11 p.m.).

FRIDAY, DEC. 26
◊“Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?” (7 p.m. on Fox): A bank teller who can’t pass the class gets a second chance at cash when “Don’t Forget the Lyrics” host Wayne Brady invites her to carry a tune and sing for money on this speciall crossover edition.
◊“CMT Online Awards 2008″ (2:30 p.m. on CMT): Kellie Pickler (”American Idol”) hosts the third annual event. The winner in each category received the highest number of streams, clicks and views on www.CMT.com. Presenters include Jessica Simpson (”The Dukes of Hazzard”), Larry the Cable Guy (”Witless Protection”) and Hulk Hogan (”American Gladiators”).
◊“E! Special: Jennifer Aniston” (8 p.m. on E!): A profile of the former “Friends” star who has appeared in a string of blockbuster movies.
◊“Ghost Whisperer” (7 p.m. on CBS): A ghost who believes he is Santa Claus (Gordon Clapp, “NYPD Blue”) has lost touch with the true meaning of Christmas, and it is up to Melinda to help him discover the true gift of giving.
◊“NUMB3RS” (9 p.m. on CBS): Charlie works to find an extremely rare comic that was stolen during a deadly robbery at a comic book convention Christopher Lloyd (”Taxi”) guest stars.

SATURDAY, DEC. 27
◊“30 Minute Meals” (9 a.m. on Food Network): Host Rachael Ray whips up a quick and casual New Year’s Eve meal. She starts with steakhouse sliders with a side of mini steak fries. As a side, she makes a gorgonzola spinich artichoke dip.
◊“CMT Top 20 Countdown of the Year” (10 a.m. on CMT): Host Lance Smith counts down the year’s best country music videos. Contenders include Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney and Taylor Swift.
◊“A Kiss at Midnight” (8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel): Faith Ford (”Murphy Brown”) and Dyan Cannon (”Heaven Can Wait”) star in this new romantic comedy about a personal matchmaker who finds herself competing for business against a computer program, while she struggles with her own emotions.

–Penny TV

comments

Program Planner: Dec. 14-20

Posted by television

on December 12, 2008 at 5:00 am

SUNDAY, DEC. 14
◊“The Age of Believing: The Disney Live Action Classics” (6 p.m. on TCM): Angela Lansbury narrates this new special devoted to Disney’s classic live-action movies. Stars including Kurt Russell (‘‘The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes”), Dean Jones (‘‘The Love Bug”), Tim Conway (‘‘The Apple Dumpling Gang”) and Karen Dotrice (‘‘Mary Poppins”) share their memories.
◊“America’s Funniest Home Videos” (6 p.m. on ABC): Someone will go home with $100,000 in prize money. Clips in the running include footage of a toddler with a special dance for each state of the union, a cat resisting a bath, an over-eager tot trying to blow out the birthday candles too soon, a toddler making a break from his crib, a hula-hoop-challenged three-year-old, two boys mocking their sister’s dance routine, and a four-year-old’s musical tribute to Barry Manilow.
◊“Californication” (9 p.m. on Showtime): In the season finale, Hank finishes Ashby’s biography, but his celebratory mood is dampened by Karen’s announcement that she’s taking a job in New York.
◊“Chicano Rock! The Sounds of East Los Angeles” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): Edward James Olmos (“Battlestar Galactica”) narrates this documentary that tells the story of generations of young Mexican-Americans who expressed their identity through music.
◊“Skins” (9 p.m. on BBC America): In the season finale, the gang is moving on from high school but first they must come together one last time to say a final goodbye to Chris.
◊“Snow 2 Brain Freeze” (7 p.m. on ABC Family): Tom Cavanagh (”Ed”) reprises his role as Nick Snowden in this sequel to ABC Family’s 2004 original movie “Snow.” In the rush to get his reindeer ready for Christmas, Nick jumps through his magic mirror and hits his head upon landing, causing him to lose his memory and forget who he is.
◊“Spike TV’s Video Game Awards 2008″ (8 p.m. on SPIKE): The sixth annual event airing live from Los Angeles celebrates the entertainment revolution of video games and provides a glimpse at the future of gaming.
◊“Survivor: Gabon” (7 p.m. on CBS): The winner of the $1 million grand prize is determined in a last Tribal Council in this two-hour finale. Host Jeff Probst presides as those previously voted out of the game return to pass judgment. An hourlong reunion special follows.
◊“Unwrapping the Shroud: New Evidence” (9 p.m. on Discovery): This special examines the findings of Ray Rogers, a chemist who was a member of the original team of scientists who examined the Shroud of Turin. After hearing that the test sample used in 1988 had been taken from a section of the Shroud that had been repaired in the 16th Century, Rogers went back to examine the Shroud.
◊“The White House: America’s Most Famous Home” (8 p.m. on C-SPAN): This new documentary recounts highlights of the White House — from George Washington’s first design decisions to an exclusive tour of the private residence given by First Lady Laura Bush.
◊Oklahoma State University takes on Texas A&M-Corpus Christi in men’s college basketball action airing live at 3 p.m. on KOCB-34.

MONDAY, DEC. 15
◊“Antiques Roadshow” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): This new special edition of “Trash or Treasure” highlights relics from Louis Comfort Tiffany’s Laurelton Hall mansion, destined for demolition until salvaged by a carpenter, valued at $80,000 to $100,000.
◊“Cat Dancers” (7 p.m. on HBO): This new documentary profiles Ron Holiday, Joy Holiday and Chuck Lizza, who were one of the world’s first exotic-tiger entertainment acts. Tragedy struck in 1998, when a tiger killed Chuck and then Joy a few weeks later.
◊“Drama High: The Making of a High School Musical” (8 p.m. on ABC): When a predominantly white high school in Virginia decides to stage “The Wiz” — the black musical version of the “Wizard of Oz” — over 100 kids audition. Viewers get to see up close the high-stakes high school game of who’s in and who’s out, as the students make their way from the auditions to the final performance.
◊“I Want a Dog for Christmas, Charlie Brown!” (7 p.m. on ABC): This 2003 animated special centers on ReRun, Linus and Lucy’s little brother, who turns to to Snoopy for holiday cheer.
◊“Intervention” (8 p.m. on A&E): Returning for a sixth season is the three-time Prism Award-winning series that profiles people who are struggling with addictions and the friends and family members who are seeking to help them.
◊“Sandra Lee’s Semi-Homemade Holiday” (7 p.m. on Food Network): The bestselling author and Food Network star will show viewers how to create a holiday party with ease using her trademark concept of preparing meals with 70% store-bought products and 30% fresh ingredients. Her holiday spread includes a polar espresso, sausage stuffed mushrooms and wreath cupcakes.
◊“White House Tours by Presidents and First Ladies” (8 p.m. on C-SPAN): Get an exclusive look at the White House private residence in this new tour with First Lady Laura Bush. Also see a tour filmed in 1968 with Lady Bird Johnson and Jackie Kennedy’s 1962 White House tour.

TUESDAY, DEC. 16
◊“According to Jim” (8 p.m. on ABC): Jim’s desire to make enough money to give his five children a decent Christmas leads him to cast the twin babies in a movie opposite Steve Guttenberg (played by himself).
◊“Behind the Scenes: The Working White House” (8 p.m. on C-SPAN): Take a tour of the Oval Office with White House Curator Bill Allman. Also see other areas of the White House at work, including the chocolate shop, the calligrapher’s office and the White House theater.
◊“The Biggest Loser: Families” (7 p.m. on NBC): While only one contestant in this reality series takes home the $250,000 grand prize at the end of the two-hour season finale, you could say that everyone who took part in the competition was a winner. All received expert diet help and fitness training that can only benefit them as they continue working toward their goal weights.
◊“Breaking the Huddle: The Integration of College Football” (9 p.m. on HBO): This new documentary chronicles the integration of college football in the South, focusing on the Civil Rights movement of the ’60s and its effect on the racial status quo of college athletics.
◊“Independent Lens” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): The new documentary ‘‘Wonders Are Many: The Making of Doctor Atomic” follows composer John Adams and director Peter Sellars as they turn the story of J. Robert Oppenheimer, architect of the Manhattan Project, into a musical production.
◊“Momma’s Boys” (9 p.m. on NBC): This new reality dating show centers around three possessive, yet loving mothers who must help their complacent sons choose the perfect woman — and ultimately poses the question: “Who is really the most important woman in every man’s life?”
◊“Spirit of Christmas” (7 p.m. on My Network TV): This two-hour special is filled with holiday-themed performances by some R&B legends, including Gladys Knight, Smokey Robinson, Lionel Richie and Brian McKnight.
◊“Starz Inside: Ladies or Gentlemen” (9 p.m. on Starz): Host Richard Roeper examines some of the most daring cross-sexual performances in Hollywood history.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 17
◊“Christmas in Washington” (7 p.m. on TNT): Dr. Phil and Robin McGraw return as hosts of this holiday music concert benefiting the National Children’s Medical Center. Featured performers include Tony-winning actress Kristin Chenoweth from Broken Arrow, rising country star Julianne Hough, Grammy winner Darius Rucker, Christian music group Casting Crowns and a cappella sensations Straight No Chaser.
◊“Christmas is Here Again” (7 p.m. on My Network TV): Jay Leno (”The Tonight Show”) narrates this animated holiday special that follows a young orphan girl and a band of adventurers who team up to recover Santa’s magical toy sack.
◊“The White House Gardens and Grounds” (8 p.m. on C-SPAN): A look at the beauty and history of the 18 acres inside the President’s Park, featuring White House grounds superintendent Dale Haney.
◊“Great Performances” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): In ‘‘Dance in America: San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker,” Maria Kochetkova and Davit Karapetyan dance the lead roles of Clara and the Prince, with Vanessa Zahorian as the Sugar Plum Fairy. This production relocates the action to the Panama-Pacific International Exposition, held in San Francisco in 1915.
◊“L.A. Holiday Celebration 2008″ (9 p.m. on OETA-13): Ex-Doors drummer John Densmore will kick off this year’s performance with his group Tribaljazz. The special highlights the largest multi-cultural holiday show in the country, performed before an audience of 9,000-plus in the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in downtown Los Angeles, home to 166 ethnic cultures.
◊“The Money Chase: Inside Harvard Business School” (9 p.m. on CNBC): CNBC reporter Carl Quintanilla takes a special look inside the “West Point of capitalism” as it celebrates its centennial.
◊“A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa” (7 p.m. on NBC): In this new holiday special, Kermit and company accidentally intercept three children’s letters to Saint Nick. They vow to hand-deliver them to the North Pole themselves with a little help from co-stars Whoopi Goldberg (”The View”), Nathan Lane (”The Producers”) and Uma Thurman (”Kill Bill”).
◊“Oklahomans” (8 p.m. on KWTV-9 in Oklahoma City and KOTV-6 in Tulsa): Becky Dixon hosts this bi-annual special that has been profiling the state’s most celebrated sons and daughters for 18 years. Featured in this holiday edition are Megan Mullally (former soloist with the Oklahoma City ballet who won Emmys for “Will & Grace” in 2000 and 2006); Wes Welker (led Heritage Hall High School to a state football championship in 1998 and tied a Super Bowl record with 11 catches); and Sarah Coburn (Muskogee native who received rave reviews with the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Opera and the Chicago Opera Theater).
◊“Pushing Daisies” (7 p.m. on ABC): When Emerson turns down Vivian’s request to look into the sudden disappearance of Dwight Dixon, she turns to another private investigation team, lead by Emerson’s bitter rival, Magnus Olsdatter (guest star Orlando Jones).
◊“White House Christmas 2008” (8 p.m. on HGTV): Host Sabrina Soto (“Get It Sold”) gives viewers an exclusive look at what it takes to decorate the hokme of the president and the first lady for the holidays.

THURSDAY, Dec. 18
◊The 15th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards nominations (8 a.m. on TNT): Angela Bassett (”ER”) and Eric McCormack (”Will & Grace”) will join Screen Actors Guild president Alan Rosenberg (”The Guardian”) to announce nominees for the 15th annual SAG Awards. The awards ceremonies will be broadcast Jan. 25 live on TNT and TBS.
◊“The Lincoln White House” (8 p.m. on C-SPAN): An evening at Lincoln’s White House, featuring an interview from the Lincoln Bedroom with Lincoln historian Harold Holzer.
◊“Ugly Betty” (7 p.m. on ABC): Wilhelmina, prepping her first issue of the magazine as editor, tries to lure Betty over to the dark side by offering her a job at Mode as her assistant.
◊Tulsa Edison takes on Tulsa Memorial in high school basketball action airing live at 6:30 p.m. (girls) and 8 p.m. (boys) on Cox.

FRIDAY, DEC. 19
◊“Essence of Emeril” (9:30 a.m. on Food Network): Chef Emeril Lagassi creates a menu for entertaining family and friends. He starts with a cinnamon-citrus glazed ham and prepares corn pudding and bruzzels sprouts gratin on the side.
◊“Faith Hill: Joy to the World: A Soundstage Special Event” (9 p.m. on OETA-13): Faith Hill presents favorites from her holiday album Joy to the World. The progarm was taped over two nights at the Chicago-area Sears Centre Arena.
◊“Ghost Whisperer” (7 p.m. on CBS): Melinda assists a ghost who must face hard facts about her marriage. Rena Sofer (“Blind Justice”) guest stars.
◊“Whale Wars” (8 p.m. on Animal Planet): The Sea Shepherds find the most important ship in the Japanese waling fleet, the Nisshin Maru factory ship. And despite warnings from the Japanese whalers, the Sea Shepherds strike.

SATURDAY, DEC. 20
◊“Christmas in Wonderland” (7 p.m. on ABC Family): Christmas mayhem is afoot when a family stumbles onto a couple of bumbling crooks at the local mall in this new holiday movie starring Patrick Swayze (”Ghost”), Carmen Electra (“Summerland”), Tim Curry (“Family Affair”) and Chris Kattan (“Saturday Night Live”).
◊“Our First Christmas” (8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel): This new holiday movie stars Julie Warner (”Tommy Boy”) and Steven Eckholdt (”Secret Santa”) as newlyweds whose children want to spend Christmas with their respective grandparents (Dixie Carter, “Designing Women,” and John Ratzenberger, “Cheers”).
◊“A Very Merry Daughter of the Bride” (8 p.m. on Lifetime): Joanna Garcia, Luke Perry and Helen Shaver star in this 2008 holiday movie. A twenty-something wedding planner disapproves of her mother’s whirlwind romance. Unable to stop her mother’s wedding, she decides to take control of it.
◊“WWE Tribute to the Troops” (8 p.m. on NBC): WWE Chairman Vince McMahon along with today’s top WWE Superstars and Divas will visit forward operating bases, meet the troops and perform in front of a military crowd in Iraq.
◊Oklahoma State University takes on Rhode Island in men’s college basketball action airing live at 6:30 p.m. on ESPN Classic.
◊The University of Oklahoma takes on VCU in men’s college basketball action airing live at 9 p.m. on ESPN2.

–Penny TV

comments

Program Planner: Nov. 30-Dec. 6

Posted by television

on November 27, 2008 at 9:00 am

SUNDAY NOV. 30
◊“Britney Spears: For the Record” (8 p.m. on MTV): Britney Spears granted access to filmmaker Phil Griffin to tell her side of the story in her own words in this 90-minute documentary. It includes footage of Spears recording her new album “Circus” that will be released Dec. 2 on her 27th birthday.
◊“Britz” (7 p.m. today and Monday on BBC America): This two-part drama tells the story of brother and sister Sohail and Nasima (Riz Ahmed, Manjinder Virk), British-born Muslims who have conflicting personal experiences in post 9/11 Britain.
◊“Cheech & Chong Roast” (9 p.m. on TBS): In this new special, friends and fellow stars pay tribute to Richard Anthony “Cheech” Marin and Tommy Chong. Brad Garrett (“Everybody Loves Raymond”) hosts the event and roasters include Tom Arnold (“Roseanne”), television journalist Geraldo Rivera, magicians Penn & Teller and Wilmer Valderrama (“That ’70s Show”).
◊“Cold Case” (8 p.m. on CBS): Rush and the team reopen the 2005 murder case of a young black politician who vowed to rid the lower-class neighborhood he grew up in of drug dealers. Jonathan LaPaglia (”The District”) guest stars as Assistant District Attorney Curtis Bell.
◊“Faith Hill, Joy to the World” (7 p.m. on CMT): backed by an orchestra led by conductor David Campbell, the Grammy winner performs holiday favorites from her upcoming Christmas album “Joy to the World.”
◊“Home For the Holidays” (7 p.m. on HGTV): Monica Pedersen (“Designed to Sell”) hosts this new special that shows viewers how HGTV’s top designers celebrate the season. Among those sharing holiday traditions with viewers are Vern Yip (“Deserving Design”), Kim Myles (“Myles of Style”) and Steve Watson (“Don’t Sweat It”).
◊“Laffapalooza!” (10 p.m. on TBS): Tracy Morgan (“30 Rock”) hosts this comedy show that will feature performances by comedians Mark Curry, Sheryl Underwood, Earthquake, Corey Holcomb and Lavell Crawford.
◊“Mindhunter” (9 p.m. on MSNBC): Former FBI agent John Douglas interviews two of the nation’s most disturbing and violent serial killers, Joseph Kondro and Donald Harvey.
◊“Snoop Dogg’s Father Hood” (9:30 p.m. on E!): The series once again takes viewers inside the heartwarming, hilarious and refreshingly normal home life of this international icon and his family. Visitors to “Tha Hood” in Season 2 include football superstars Joe Montana and Jerry Rice, David Spade (“Just Shoot Me”) and Roy Jones Jr. (“The Matrix Reloaded”).
◊The University of Oklahoma takes on Connecticut in women’s college basketball action airing live at 7 p.m. on ESPN.

MONDAY, DEC. 1
◊“All of Us” (5 p.m. on Showtime): Airing on World AIDS Day, this new documentary profiles Mehret Mandefro, a doctor from Ethiopia who’s studying — and trying to stop — the spread of HIV among black American women.
◊“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (7:32 p.m. on ABC): Boris Karloff (“Frankenstein”) narrates and voices the
green-skinned grouch in this 1966 animated holiday story loved by all tall and small.
◊“Handy Manny” (8 a.m. on Disney): When Manny’s new vintage motorcycle breaks down on a deserted road, the tools are afraid they won’t be able to fix it before it gets dark. They search the motorcycle’s saddlebags and discover Flicker, a talking flashlight, that joins the cast in this animated series recently honored with an Environmental Media Award for best children’s live action/animated television program.
◊“I Am Because We Are” (8 p.m. on Sundance): This new documentary about Malawi’s AIDS orphans was written and produced by Madonna.
◊“I Survived …” (8 p.m. on Biography): Season 2 features all-new first-person survival accounts of ordinary people who encountered extraordinary challenges to their lives and survived to tell about it.
◊“Mom’s Cooking” (10 a.m. on Lifetime): In each episode of this new culinary series, host Joe Corsano follows participants as they surprise and enlist their mother to teach them how to make a treasured recipe step-by-step.
◊“Shrek the Halls” (7 p.m. on ABC): “Twas the night before Christmas and not a swamp rat did creep, as mother and babe played kazoo in their sleep….” That’s the story America’s favorite green ogre tells his family in this animated special featuring the voices of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz and Antonio Banderas.
◊TCM Birthday Tribute: Woody Allen was born on this day in 1935, and TCM celebrates by airing three of his films — 1969’s “Take the Money and Run” (1:30 p.m.), 1977’s “Annie Hall” (3 p.m.) and 1986’s “Hannah and Her Sisters” (5 p.m.).

TUESDAY, DEC. 2
◊2008 World Music Awards (7 p.m. on My Network TV): The 20th annual event will include performances by Alicia Keys, Kid Rock, Beyonce, Solange and others. Ringo Starr will accept the Diamond Award on behalf of The Beatles for selling more records than any other recording-artist in the history of the music industry.
◊“According to Jim” (8 p.m. on ABC): Jim Belushi returns for his eighth season as Jim, an all-American guy who is devoted to his wife and their five children. He loves his family, but he continues to test his wife’s patience with his stubborn antics.
◊“The Bad Girls Club” (9 p.m. on Oxygen): Season 3 will bring seven new “bad girls” together in a Los Angeles mansion. They have issues with anger, trust and control, and claim they want to change.
◊“Party Monsters: Cabo” (9 p.m. on E!): This new competition reality series takes nine party planners to the oceanfront LG Villa in Cabo to see who can throw the ultimate party. The contestants will present their party ideas to celebrity guests including P. Diddy, Carmen Electra, Brody Jenner and Lil Jon. The winner will receive a coveted celebrity event-planner position at LG worth $100,000.
◊“Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” (7 p.m. on ABC): In this perennial favorite created in 1970 by Rankin-Bass Productions, Fred Astaire narrates the story of Kris Kringle, a young boy with a desire to do good things for others.
◊“Shatner’s Raw Nerve” (9 p.m. on Biography): Emmy winner William Shatner (“Boston Legal”) headlines his own edgy and off-beat celebrity interview series. In each 30-minute episode, Shatner will attempt to probe his guest’s most sensitive subjects and touch upon a “raw nerve.”

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 3
◊“Christmas in Rockefeller Center” (7 p.m. on NBC): David Cook from Tulsa and Joe Don Rooney from Picher are planning to perform during the 76th annual tree lighting extravaganza at Rockefeller Center. Rooney will be there with his bandmates from Rascal Flatts. The telecast will be in high definition, so it will feel like you are there (except you won’t be as cold as those standing outside). Al Roker (”Today”) will host the event.
◊“Eyes on Kenya” (7 p.m. on My Network TV): Join Sir Roger Moore, Louis Gossett, Jr., Dean Cain, Shannon Elizabeth and other celebrities as they travel through Kenya. They travel through Nairobi visiting children in need, then go on safari to view animals in the wild.
◊“The Grammy Nominations Concert Live: Countdown to Music’s Biggest Night” (8 p.m. on CBS): For the first time, nominations for The 51st Annual Grammy Awards will announced live. The special will also celebrate the grand opening of the Grammy Museum at L.A. LIVE and feature performances by Celine Dion, Foo Fighters, B.B. King, John Mayer and Taylor Swift.
◊“Jacques D’Amboise in China: The Other Side of the World” (5:30 p.m. on HBO): This new special chronicles the dancer’s journey to Shanghai to direct a cross-cultural ensemble in a performance for the Shanghai Grand Theatre. D’Amboise is the founder of the National Dance Institute in New York City.
◊“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (7 p.m. on CBS): The navigational prowess of “the most famous reindeer of all” will again illuminate Santa Claus’ way into the Christmas season with this digitally re-mastered version of the 1964 animated special. Burl Ives narrates the story based on the popular song of the same title by Johnny Marks.
◊“Secret Millionaire” (7 p.m. on Fox): Based on the hit British series of the same name, this unscripted drama reveals the personal return that participating millionaires receive when they leave their fortunes to invest in those less fortunate.
◊“Spectacle: Elvis Costello With …” (8 p.m. on Sundance): This new music/talk series features an intimate conversation between host Elvis Costello and his guests, punctuated by musical performances by Costello, his guests and a wide variety of musicians. Confirmed guests for the 13-part series include Sir Elton John (first episode), Tony Bennett, Lou Reed and President Bill Clinton.
◊“The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show” (9 p.m. on CBS): Models Alessandra Ambrosio, Selita Ebanks, Doetzen Kroes, Adriana Lima, Marisa Miller and Miranda Kerr hit the runway for this edition of the special. Heidi Klum is also scheduled to make an appearance, and Usher is the musical guest.

THURSDAY, DEC. 4
◊“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (8 p.m. on CBS): When a young singer is found dead outside an infamous Las Vegas nightclub, the CSI team uncovers a link between the present day crime and a murder from over 50 years ago. Golden Globe Award winner Tippi Hedren (”The Birds”) and Emmy Award winner Robert Guillaume (”Benson”) guest star.
◊“Barbara Walters Presents the 10 Most Fascinating People of 2008” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): This list is drawn from the year’s most prominent names in entertainment, sports, politics and pop cultre. A few of the people making the 2008 honor roll include Tom Cruise, Tina Fey, Will Smith, Rush Limbaugh, Miley Cyrus and Michael Phelps. Last year, “Harry Potter” scribe J.K. Rowling took the No. 1 spot.
◊“Grey’s Anatomy” (8 p.m. on ABC): Cristina is awarded the first solo surgery among the residents, but must give it up and choose her replacement. Guest stars include Melissa George (“Alias”), Mary McDonnell (“Battlestar Gallactica”) and Kevin McKidd (“Rome”).
◊“Eleventh Hour” (9 p.m. on CBS): When college students in Oklahoma begin dying of the bends — a condition of sudden decompression normally seen in scuba divers — Dr. Hood’s investigation uncovers a medical cover-up on campus.
◊Oklahoma State University takes on Washington in men’s college basketball action airing live at 10 p.m. on FSOK.
◊The University of Oklahoma takes on USC in men’s college basketball action airing live at 6 p.m. on ESPN2.

FRIDAY, DEC. 5
◊“Greatest Holiday Moments: TV & Film Countdown” (7 p.m. on NBC): This new special counts down the most memorable holiday moments from the big and small screens, from the old standbys such as ‘‘It’s a Wonderful Life” to modern classics such as ‘‘Home Alone.”
◊“Merry Christmas, Drake & Josh” (7 p.m. on Nickelodeon): Drake Bell and Josh Peck reunite to make holiday memories in this original TV movie. Henry Winkler (“Happy Days”) and mixed martial arts fighter Kimbo Slice guest star as a fair-minded judge and good-hearted ex-jailbird who help Drake and Josh keep their Christmas promise to a family of foster kids.
◊“NUMB3RS” (9 p.m. on CBS): The bombing of a charity’s headquarters forces the team to sift through various rumors about the true reach of the organization’s power. Paul Michael Glaser (“Starsky & Hutch”) guest stars.

SATURDAY, DEC. 6
◊“The Christmas Choir” (8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel): Emmy winner Rhea Perlman (“Cheers”) and Jason Gedrick (“Windfall”) star in the new movie inspired by the true story of an accountant who convinces a nun to turn members of a homeless shelter into a choir.
◊“CMT Giants: Alan Jackson” (8 p.m. on CMT): This tribute to country music superstar Alan Jackson will feature performances by George Strait, Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift, Dierks Bentley, Lee Ann Womack and Miranda Lambert.
◊“Flirting With Forty” (8 p.m. on Lifetime): Heather Locklear (“Spin City”) stars as a divorced mother of two on the brink of her 40th birthday who, while on vacation, enters into a romance with a younger man (Robert Buckley, “Lipstick Jungle”).

–Penny TV

comments

Program Planner: Nov. 23-29

Posted by television

on November 20, 2008 at 6:00 am

SUNDAY, NOV. 23
◊2008 American Music Awards (7 p.m. on ABC): Talk show host Jimmy Kimmel returns as host of the 35th annual event. Top nominees are Alicia Keys (5), Coldplay (4), The Eagles (4). Nominees with Oklahoma ties are Garth Brooks (favorite male artist, favorite album), Reba McEntire (favorite female artist), Carrie Underwood (favorite female artist, favorite album), Brooks & Dunn (favorite band, duo or group), Rascal Flatts (favorite band, duo or group, favorite album).
◊“24: Redemption” (7 p.m. on Fox): Here’s a two-hour prequel to the events of Season 7 (scheduled to begin January 11 and 12). Counterterrorism agent Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland) is in South Africa dealing with an international crisis as the United States prepares to inaugurate a new president, Allison Taylor (Cherry Jones).
◊“Al Roker Reporting: Armed in America” (9 p.m. on MSNBC): Al Roker (“Today”) teams up with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to find out how this federal agency is working to eliminate gun crimes in the United States.
◊“A Colbert Christmas: The Greatest Gift of All!” (9 p.m. on Comedy Central): Stephen Colbert (“The Colbert Report”) hosts this holiday special featuring musical guests Toby Keith, Feist, John Legend, Willie Nelson and Elvis Costello, along with former “Daily Show” colleague Jon Stewart.
◊“Cold Case” (8 p.m. on CBS): Lilly and the team re-open the 1953 case of a pin-up girl when a fan’s crime scene photo provides new evidence in the case. Tania Raymonde (”Lost”) joins the cast as Frankie Rafferty, a smart and feisty lab technician.
◊“Masterpiece Special: The Unseen Alistair Cooke” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): To mark the centenary of Alistair Cooke’s birth in 2008, this documentary traces the brodcaster’s life using his own words, comments from those who knew him and his own home movies dating back to the 1930s.
◊“True Blood” (8 p.m. on HBO): In the first-season finale, Sookie finds a link to the murders in Bon Temps and lands in the killer’s sights. Bill makes a risky move to save her.
◊“Wizards of Waverly Place” (7:30 p.m. on Disney): While attending PopCon, Alex reveals to her best friend, Harper, that she and her brothers are wizards-in-training. Lee Meriwether (”Batman”) guest stars as a TV Battle Diva attending the comic book convention.

MONDAY, NOV. 24
◊“The Rape of Europa” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): Joan Allen (“The Contender”) narrates this new documentary that chronicles the efforts of scholars, governments and others to locate the millions of pieces of art stolen by Germany’s Third Reich during World War II.
◊“Samantha Who?” (8:32 p.m. on ABC): Sam’s decision to invite boyfriend Owen (James Tupper, “Men in Trees”) for dinner to meet her parents turns into a disaster when Owen’s philosophy about chicken farms rubs chicken farm owner Howard the wrong way.
◊Steven Seagal movie marathon (8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on SPIKE): See the action movie actor, who is a 7th-dan black belt in aikido, in four back-to-back films: 2005’s “Today You Die” (8 a.m.), 2007’s “Urban Justice” (10 a.m.), 2003’s “Out for a Kill” (noon) and 2003’s “Belly of the Beast” (2 p.m.).
◊“Two and a Half Men” (8 p.m. on CBS): Jake disappears with the daughter of Charlie’s neighbor, and Charlie is left to cover his back. Michael Clarke Duncan (“The Green Mile”) guest stars.

TUESDAY, NOV. 25
◊“The Biggest Loser 6” (7 p.m. on NBC): Celebrity chef Rocco DiSpirito (“Dancing With the Stars”) helps the contestants make a healthy version of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.
◊“A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” (7 p.m. on ABC): This classic Peanuts special from 1973 signals the start of the holiday season. It will be followed by another Peanuts cartoon, “This Is America, Charlie Brown: The Mayflower Voyagers.”
◊“Dancing With the Stars” (8 p.m. on ABC)(ABC Photo above features “Dancing With the Stars” contestants Warren Sapp and Kym Johnson): The winner of the seventh season is announced. All the eliminated celebrities return for one last spin across the floor.
◊“Frontline” (9 p.m. on OETA-13): The new report “The Hugo Chavez Show” profiles Venezuela’s controversial and outspoken president and the revolution he claims is turning his country into an anti-capitalist beacon for Latin America.
◊“House” (7 p.m. on Fox): Dr. House and Thirteen are taken hostage by a man willing to kill for a diagnosis. Zeljko Ivanek (“Damages”)guest stars.
◊“NCIS” (7 p.m. on CBS): The team must relay on information from some questionable individuals to stop a criminal bent on stealing government secrets. David Eigenberg (“Sex and the City”) guest stars.
◊“The Real Housewives of Orange County” (9 p.m. on Bravo): Tamra Barney, Vicki Gunvalson, Jeana Keough and Lauri Peterson return for a fourth season that is laced with searing emotion and high drama. Posing an immediate threat is Gretchen Rossi, a new housewife on the block.
◊“The Shield” (9 p.m. on FX): In the series finale, the Barn looks into a woman’s disappearance and the arrival of a major drug shipment.
◊TCM Birthday Tribute: Ricardo Montalban was born on this day in 1920, and TCM celebrates by airing four of his films, including 1949’s “Neptune’s Daughter” (7 a.m.) and 1952’s “My Man and I” (10:30 a.m.).

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 26
◊“The 2008 World Magic Awards” (7 p.m. on My Network TV): Neil Patrick Harris (“How I Met Your Mother”) hosts the event that honors today’s best magicians. Scheduled to perform are Lance Burton and The Amazing Jonathan.
◊“Dirty Sexy Money” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): While the Darlings are away for Thanksgiving, Clark the chauffeur offers his version of various Darling family rumors to a persistent reporter. Donna Mills (“Knots Landing”) guest stars.
◊“Gary Unmarried” (7:30 p.m. on CBS): Allison wants the family to celebrate Thanksgiving at her house, but Gary insists on holding the feast at his place. Jane Curtin (“Kate and Allie”) and Martin Mull (”Roseanne”) guest star as Allison’s parents.
◊“Monarchy: The Royal Family at Work” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): In the second hour of the miniseries’ finale, Queen Elizabeth II’s children, grandchildren and other relatives talk about their lives and roles in the “family business.”
◊“Private Practice” (8 p.m. on ABC): Addison receives a surprise visit from her brother (Grant Show, “Melrose Place”). His presence not only causes trouble for Addison, but for Naomi and Sam, as well.
◊“Rosie Live” (8 p.m. on NBC): Emmy winner Rosie O’Donnell (“The Rosie O’Donnel Show”) returns to television with a live variety special showcasing a wide array of celebrity guests, musical acts, comedy skits and a giant giveaway for both the in-studio and home audiences.
◊“That Moment! With Jake Steinfeld” (7 p.m. on WGN): Jake Steinfeld, motivational coach, bestselling author, fitness expert and founder of Major League Lacrosse and ExerciseTV, interviews Harrison Ford (“Indiana Jones” movies), Pastor Joel Osteen and The Jonas Brothers.
◊“Top Chef” (9 p.m. on Bravo): The contestants join the Grammy winning rock Band Foo Fighters for a tour stop in Rochester, NY.
◊The University of Oklahoma takes on Marist in women’s college basketball action airing live at 7 p.m. on Cox.

THURSDAY, NOV. 27
◊“CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute” (8 p.m. on CNN): CNN anchor Anderson Cooper hosts the second annual event that spotlights ordinary citizens who accomplished extraordinary deeds. Among the 10 finalists for the Hero of the Year award (which includes a $100,000 cash prize) is Tad Agoglia, founder of First Response Team of America that goes into disaster sites and helps clean up in the immediate aftermath. Agoglia and his team traveled to Picher following the deadly May 10 tornado.
◊“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (8 p.m. on CBS): Grissom and his team battle the flu when they are called upon by Deputy District Attorney Madeline Klein (Bonnie Bedelia, “The Division”) to investigate the deaths of several key witnesses for a grand jury case against a Las Vegas gang.
◊“Dirty Jobs” marathon (8 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Discovery): Join host and perpetual apprentice Mike Rowe for this 18-hour marathon featuring viewers’ favorite episodes.
◊“Grey’s Anatomy” (8:02 p.m. on ABC): A freak ice storm not only nrings trauma patients to Seattle Grace, it brings a mysterious military doctor as well. Kathy Baker (“Picket Fences”), Mariette Hartley (“One Life to Live”) and Bernadette Peters (“Living Proof”) guest star.
◊“Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade” (8 a.m. on NBC): “Today” personalities Meredith Vieira, Matt Lauer and Al Roker co-host the 82nd annual parade in New York City. The trip down Broadway will feature Oklahoma actress Kristin Chenoweth, Miley Cyrus, Trace Adkins, David Archuleta, The Cheetah Girls, James Taylor and Andy Williams, as well as 13 giant character helium balloons, 10 marching bands, 28 floats and more than 1,700 cheerleaders, dancers, singers and performers.
◊“The National Dog Show Presented By Purina” (11 a.m. on NBC): John O’Hurley (“Seinfeld”) returns as host of the purebred canine competition that is expected to feature more than 2,000 of the nation’s leading dogs representing more than 150 breeds.
◊“The Thanksgiving Day Parade on CBS” (7 a.m. on CBS): “The Early Show” anchors Dave Price and Maggie Rodriguez will cover the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade live from New York’s Time Square. Clay Aiken (“American Idol”), Jessica Leccia (”Guiding Light”) and Julie Pinson (”As The World Turns”) will drop by to chat with Price and Rodriguez during the broadcast.
◊“VH1 Storytellers” Kid Rock” (8 p.m. on VH1): Kid Rock performs songs off of his latest double platinum-selling album, Rock ‘N Roll Jesus, in addition to past hits, backed by his Twisted Brown Trucker Band. Kid Rock will also share his inspiration and the stories behind his songs.
◊Oklahoma State University takes on Gonzaga in men’s college basketball action airing live at 8:30 p.m. on ESPN2.

FRIDAY, NOV. 28
◊“25 Great Holiday Ideas” (8 p.m. on HGTV): Designers Angelo Surmelis and Erinn Valencich will demonstrate how to recreate 25 decorating and entertaining ideas that were submitted online by viewers.
◊“Abby in Wonderland” (5 a.m. on OETA-13): Follow “Sesame Street” characters Abby and Elmo down the rabbit hole in this re-imagining of Lewis Carrol’s “Alice in Wonderland.” Grover plays the Mad Hatter, the Cookie Monster is the Cheshire Cat and Bert and Ernie are Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum.
◊“Deadlist Catch” marathon (8 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Discovery): Go on an 18-hour voyage with the captains and crews who do one of the deadliest jobs in the world — crab fishing in the Bering Sea.
◊“Forbes Top 20 Celebrity Cash Couples: Crazy Double Incomes” (7 p.m. on E!): Brad or Angelina? Beyonce or Jay Z? Seal or Heidi? Find out which half of these mega-star duos is making the most money.
◊“Monk” (8 p.m. on USA): In the new holiday episode titled “Mr. Monk and the Miracle,” three homeless men seek out Monk’s services. Natalie convinces the private detective with obsessive-compulsive disorder to investigate the death of their friend.
◊“Psych” (9 p.m. on USA): Shawn and Gus help a little girl get a “mall Santa” out of jail in time for Christmas in this new holiday episode. But they soon realize that their clients are con artists who have a big score planned. Phylicia Rashad guest stars as Gus’ mom.
◊“SpongeBob SquarePants” marathon (7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Nickelodeon): The day-long marathon concludes with four new episodes: “The Slumber Party/Grooming Gary” (7 p.m.), “Porous Pockets” (7:30 p.m.), “Krusty Krushers/The Card” (8 p.m.) and “Dear Vikings/Ditchin” (8:30 p.m.). Also look for a preview of Nickelodeon’s new series “The Penguins of Madagascar” at approximately 7:45 p.m.

SATURDAY, NOV. 29
◊“The Comedy Festival Presents: Funniest Movies of the Year 2008” (9 p.m. on TBS): Impressionist Frank Caliendo (“Frank TV”) hosts this countdown of the year’s funniest movies. Viewers voted for the Top 10 comedies of 2008 on www.tbs.com.
◊“Ellen’s Even Bigger, Really Big Show” (8 p.m. on TBS): Emmy winner Ellen DeGeneres (“The Ellen DeGeneres Show”) hand-picked the performers appearing in this variety show. As host, Ellen will also perform her own stand-up comedy and take part in several humorous vignettes.
◊“Moonlight & Mistletoe” (8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel): Tom Arnold (“Roseanne”) and Candace Cameron Bure (“Full House”) star in this new holiday family film. What begins as a simple effort to pull her dad out of debt ends up rekindling his daughter’s belief in the magic of Christmas.
◊“Sputnik Mania” (9 p.m. on History): On Oct. 4, 1957, the Soviet Union launched Sputnik into space. This new special tells the story of the launch and includes a collection of interviews and recently declassified insights into the high-level decisions that followed the dawn of the space age.
◊The University of Oklahoma takes on Oklahoma State Univertsity in college football action airing live at either 2:30 or 7 p.m. on ABC.

–Penny TV

comments

Program Planner: Nov. 9-15

Posted by television

on November 6, 2008 at 9:00 am

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 Nov. 9:

SUNDAY, NOV. 9
◊“America’s Veterans: A Musical Tribute” (6 p.m. on OETA-13): Clint Black, Patti LaBelle and the United States Air Force Band are among the performers in this concert honoring veterans in all five branches of the U.S. military.
◊“Cold Case” (8 p.m. on CBS): Lilly and the team reopen the 1969 case of a murdered 12-year-old boy after a toy rocket bearing his name is given to the retired cop who worked on the case. Greg Evigan (“My Two Dads”) guest stars.
◊“Entourage” (9 p.m. on HBO): Eric’s new client (Bow Wow) gets his pilot script picked up, but the studio wants to cast Eric’s arch-nemeses, Seth Green, in the lead role.
◊“Masterpiece Contemporary” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): The new installment “God on Trial” tells the story of a group of concentration camp inmates who, while facing extermination in Auschwitz, charged the Lord with abandoning His chosen people.
◊“Summer Heights High” (9:30 p.m. on HBO): Series creator and writer Chris Lilley stars in this unconventional new comedy series from Australia that looks at high school life through the lens of fictional documentary filmmakers. Real high school students and faculty interact with the show’s three characters, all played by Lilley.
◊“Witness to Jonestown” (8 p.m. on MSNBC): This new special that coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Jonestown massacre in Guyana features rarely-seen footage that was shot inside the Peoples Temple in the eve and day of the disaster.
◊“Orangutan Island: Cheating Extinction” (6 p.m. on Animal Planet): Virginia Madsen (“Sideways”) narrates this special that focuses on Lone Droscher-Nielsen, a former flight attendant who has dedicated her life to saving orangutans. She is the pioneer and founder of the largest primate rescue project in the world, the Nyaru Menteng Rescue and Rehabilitation Center.

MONDAY, NOV. 10
◊“Boston Legal” (9:02 p.m. on ABC): Jerry Espenson insists on defending himself in court when he’s accused of aggravated assault after a run-in with a bully. Roma Maffia (“Nip/Tuck”) guest stars.
◊“Chuck” (7 p.m. on NBC): Chuck runs into his ex-girlfriend (Jordana Brewster, “As the World Turns”) while on a Nerd Herd call. In an attempt to save face, he tells her that he is more successful than he really is.
◊“CSI: Miami” (9 p.m. on CBS): A man is found handcuffed and stabbed in his hotel room, while a prank at the lab causes a rift in the CSI team and threatens their investigation. Lucy Lawless (”Xena Warrior Princess”) guest stars.
◊“How I Met Your Mother” (7:30 p.m. on CBS): Lily enlists Ted and Robin to help her make a life-changing decision to have a baby. Dan Lauria (“The Wonder Years”) guest stars.
◊“Inside the Actors Studio” (7 p.m. on Bravo): In this 200th episode hosted by comedian Dave Chapelle, regular host James Lipton is the one being interviewed.
◊“Journey to Palomar” (9 p.m. on OETA-13): This special tells the story of American astronomer George Ellery Hale’s public and private struggle to build the four largest telescopes in the world, which set the stage for space exploration throughout the 20th century.
◊“Samantha Who?” (8:32 p.m. on ABC): While completing community service, Sam meets a troubled young woman (Mary-Kate Olsen, “So Little Time”) and and feels it’s her duty to help turn her life around.

TUESDAY, NOV. 11
◊“Blush: The Search for the Next Great Make-Up Artist” (9 p.m. on Lifetime): Vanessa Marcil (“Las Vegas”) hosts this new reality competition series in which contestants compete for a contract as a professional artist with Max Factor, a cash prize of $100,000 and the opportunity to be the make-up artist for an upcoming In Style photo shoot.
◊“Body of War” (6 p.m. on Sundance): Written, produced and directed by talk show host Phil Donahue and Ellen Spiro, this award-winning documentary explores the experience of Iraq War veteran Tomas Young, whose spine was severed by a sniper’s bullet within a week of arriving in Iraq, leaving him paralyzed for life at age 25.
◊“Cha$e” (9 p.m. on SCI FI): Trey Farley (“Bend It Like Beckham”) hosts this new reality competition series that features a group of contestants trying to stay “alive” while being pursued by “hunters” through a variety of Los Angeles locations. The longer they stay in the game, the more difficult it gets, but the money piles up for every second they remain standing.
◊“Extreme Trains” (9 p.m. on History): Train conductor Matt Bown hosts this new series that reveals the inner workings and past lives of locomotives that haul huge loads across the nation and deliver passengers to their destinations.
◊“Heroes at Home” (7 p.m. on My Network TV): Howie Long (“Fox NFL Sunday”) hosts this Veteran’s Day special in which six military heroes share their experiences of service in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
◊“REHAB: Party at the Hard Rock Hotel” (9 p.m. on truTV): This new series gives viewers exclusive access to the world-famous pool party Rehab in Las Vegas. It follows the fun and action poolside, as seen from the perspectives of a no-nonsense staff.
◊“Transcending Bonds: The 75th Infantry NETA Division” (9:30 p.m. on OETA-13): In May 2004, 10 members of the 75th Infantry Division returned to Belgium to see where the unit fought in the Battle of the Bulge. This new film documents the enduring bond of friendship between the American veterans and Belgian citizens.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 12
◊The 42nd Annual CMA Awards (7 p.m. on ABC): Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley, the reigning CMA male and female Vocalists of the year, will co-host this year’s event live from the Sommet Center in Nashville, Tenn. Kenny Chesney received the most nominations with seven, followed by Jennifer Nettles with six and George Strait and Sugarland with five each.
◊“Estate of Panic” (9 p.m. on SCI FI): Steve Valentine (“Crossing Jordan”) hosts this new reality competition series in which large quantities of cash are hidden in a massive estate and seven strangers are invited to find the money. The contestants will be challenged throughout the mansion to overcome the terrors that await them.
◊“Monarchy: The Royal Family at Work” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): This new six-part miniseries goes behind the scenes with the royal family and its staff for an unprecedented look at life in the palace and beyond. The first two installments follow the preparations as four localities get ready for a visit from the queen.
◊“Top Chef: New York” (9 p.m. on Bravo): Season 5 features 17 new chef’testants who will be skewered down week by week as they compete to out-cook each other to claim $100,000 in seed money to help open a restaurant. Host Padma Lakshmi returns along with head judge Tom Colicchio (chef/owner of Craft Restaurants).

THURSDAY, NOV. 13
◊“30 Rock” (8:31 p.m. on NBC): Liz and Jenna’s friend Claire (Jennifer Aniston, “Friends”) visits New York and falls hard for Jack.
◊“Dirty Driving: Thundercars of Indiana” (9 p.m. on HBO): This new documentary visits Anderson, Ind., the town that lost 33,000 jobs when General Motors closed its plant there. Many people have left, but for those who stayed, the Friday night races at Anderson Speedway are a welcome distraction.
◊“ER” (9 p.m. on NBC): Anthony Edwards, whose character Dr. Mark Greene succumbed to a brain tumor in 2002, returns as a guest star. He appears in flashbacks revealing that the hospital’s new chief of staff, Cate Banfield (Angela Bassett), had a past with him.
◊“Grey’s Anatomy” (8 p.m. on ABC): One of Meredith’s oldest friends (Melissa George, “Alias”) becomes an intern at Seattle Grace, causing turmoil at the hospital and in Meredith’s personal life.
◊“Life on Mars” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Sam Tyler finds it difficult to separate a life-and-death hostage situation taking place at County Hospital from his own strange circumstances. Bill Irwin (“Sesame Street”) guest stars.
◊“My Name Is Earl” (7 p.m. on NBC): When Earl’s more successful and handsome cousin (Jason Priestly, “Tru Calling”) shows up on his wedding anniversary, Earl feels like a less-than-adequate husband.
◊“This Old House Hour” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): In an effort to help homeowners dealing with high heating and cooling bills, the show’s experts will devote an entire episode to making homes energy efficient.

FRIDAY, NOV. 14
◊“A/K/A Tommy Chong” (6:30 p.m. on Showtime): This 2005 documentary revisits the arrest of Tommy Chong — best known as half of the stoner comedy duo Cheech & Chong — for dealing in drug paraphernalia.
◊“NUMB3RS” (9 p.m. on CBS): While investigating the death of a former pro surfer-turned- park ranger, the team uncovers a shocking connection to another crime. Pro Surfer Brad Gerlach guest stars in the episode directed by Emilio Estevez (”The Breakfast Club”).
◊“Super-Manny” (8 p.m. on ABC): This new spin-off of the hit reality series ‘‘Supernanny” features Mike Ruggles, a developmental therapist who stresses the importance of calm and consistent discipline in taming unruly children. If enough viewers watch this special, ABC may turn it into a series.
◊“Ghost Whisperer” (7 p.m. on CBS): While coping with changes in her personal life, Melinda struggles to help a teenage ghost. Joanna Cassidy (”Six Feet Under”) guest stars.

SATURDAY, NOV. 15
◊“Accidental Friendship” (8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel): Chandra Wilson (“Grey’s Anatomy”) and Kathleen Munroe (“Beautiful People”) star in this true story about a homeless woman and the Los Angeles police officer who tethers her to a lifeline.
◊“The Bill Engvall Show” (7:30 p.m. on TBS): Bill is excited about Christmas and tries to spread the holiday spirit to his children. Just when it seems as though Bill will never get his perfect Christmas, miserly neighbor Mr. Faulkner (Brian Doyle-Murray, “Yes, Dear”) shows up with some unexpected surprises.
◊“Ricky Gervais: Out of England — The Stand-Up Special” (8 p.m. on HBO): British comic Ricky Gervais, star of ‘‘Extras” and creator and star of the British version of ‘‘The Office,” offers his unique take on such issues as fund-raising, fame, nursery rhymes and obesity. The special was taped last summer before a live audience at the WaMu Theatre at Madison Square Garden.
◊“The Two Mr. Kissels” (8 p.m. on Lifetime): This new docudrama is based on the true story of millionaire brothers Andrew and Robert Kissel (John Stamos, Anson Mount). Within three years of each other, both men were murdered.

–Penny TV

comments

Program Planner: Nov. 2-8

Posted by television

on October 31, 2008 at 7:27 am

SUNDAY NOV. 2
◊“All the President’s Men” (7 p.m. on TCM): John Dean, former White House counsel to President Nixon, sits down with TCM host Robert Osborne for an interview introducing a special presentation of the 1976 film that follows Washington Post reporters Carl Bernstein (Dustin Hoffman) and Bob Woodward (Robert Redford) as they uncover the Watergate scandal.
◊“Beer for My Horses” (6 p.m. on CMT): See Toby Keith’s summer theatrical release on TV before it hits DVD shelves (Nov. 11). The Oklahoma superstar co-wrote the movie with comedian Rodney Carrington from Tulsa, and they play best friends who work together as deputies in a small town.
◊“Brotherhood” (7 p.m. on Showtime): The drama series about an Irish-American family in Providence, R.I., returns for a third season. In the premiere episode titled ‘‘Uneasy Lies the Head,” Tommy (Jason Clarke) thinks about taking the plunge into a new career.
◊“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (7 p.m. on ABC): The team will rebuild a 200-year-old farm house owned by a former boxer who runs a gym for underprivileged teens. Making appearances on the episode are boxing champions Sugar Ray Leonard, George Foreman and Oscar De La Hoya.
◊“Gone Missing” Vanished in Papua” (9 p.m. on Travel): This program documents the disappearance of Michael Rockefeller, son of New York governor Nelson Rockefeller, who vanished in New Guinea on Nov. 18, 1961.
◊“The Simpsons” (7 p.m. on Fox): Three new bone-chilling tales will be told in “Treehouse of Horror XIX,” including one that parodies the classic Charlie Brown Halloween special.

MONDAY NOV. 3
◊“Antiques Roadshow” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): Items evaluated in this “Politically Collect” edition include a collection of campaign buttons valued at $2,000 and signed photos of Presidents Kennedy and Johnson worth $75,000.
◊“The Bob & Tom Show” (11 p.m. weeknights on WGN): Hosts Bob Kevoian and Tom Griswold bring their popular morning radio show — a mix of comedy, notable guests and entertaining conversation — to TV.
◊“Boston Legal” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Alan and Denny sue the government when cattle rancher Carol Hober (guest star Valerie Bertinelli, “One Day at a Time”) accuses the USDA of not allowing her to test all of her cows for Mad Cow Disease.
◊“Deal or No Deal” (7 p.m. on NBC): The game show’s 200th episode will feature special speed rounds, in which each contestant will have only 20 seconds to decide if they want to take the banker’s offer.
◊“Dora the Explorer: Dora Saves the Snow Princess” (7 p.m. on Nickelodeon): This new hourlong movie based on the popular primetime show takes preschoolers on a magical snowy adventure with Dora.
◊“First Class All the Way” (8 p.m. on Bravo): Sara Duffy, founder of a Los Angeles-based multi-million dollar travel concierge business, takes viewers inside the world of high-end luxury travel.
◊“Raising the Bar” (9 p.m. on TNT): In the first-season finale, a racially-charged case involving a firefighter forces Roz and Balco back into Judge Kessler’s courtroom.
◊“Samantha Who?” (8:31 p.m. on ABC): Sam teams up with Regina to start a real estare business and ends up falling for their first client (guest star James Tupper, “Men in Trees”).
◊“Saturday Night Live Presidential Bash 2008” (8 p.m. on NBC): This new election-eve special featuring the best “SNL” political sketches, including Amy Poehler’s impersonation of Hillary Clinton and Fred Armisen’s take on Barack Obama.
◊“Sesame Street” (9 a.m. on OETA-13): Sandra Oh (“Grey’s Anatomy”) guest stars as the Fairy Cookie Person, who grants the Cookie Monster a wish. Jessica Alba (“Dark Angel”) presents the word of the day — scrumptious.
◊“Worst Week” (8:30 p.m. on CBS): Sam loses one of the wedding rings that Mel’s grandmother gave to him to use on their wedding day. Oscar-winning actress Olympia Dukakis (”Moonstruck”) guest stars as Mel’s Grandmother, June.
◊“WWE Monday Night Raw” (7 p.m. on USA): World Wrestling Entertainment superstars and divas will take part in this three-hour special celebrating the show’s 800th episode (but this will actually be the 806th installment).

TUESDAY NOV. 4
◊“Recount” (5 p.m. on HBO): This 2008 docudrama revisits the 2000 presidential election in which ambiguous results from Florida kept the outcome uncertain for weeks. Two-time Oscar winner Kevin Spacey plays Ron Klain, Al Gore’s former chief of staff.
◊“WordGirl” (4:30 p.m. on OETA-13): “A Vote for Becky” is a special Election Day episode that introduces young viewers to the concept of voting. It centers on a fifth-grade class president race and includes a funny take on events from real-life presidential campaigns.

WEDNESDAY NOV. 5
◊“Criminal Minds” (8 p.m. on CBS): While investigating the kidnapping of a young boy in Las Vegas, Dr. Reid begins to have dreams that may help reveal some buried memories from his childhood,. Jane Lynch (”Two and a Half Men”) guest stars as Dr. Reid’s mother, Diana Reid.
◊“Dirty Sexy Money” (9:02 p.m. on ABC): While constantly being challenged in court by prosecutor Nola Lyons, Nick is facing an uphill battle defending Letitia in the murder case. Ron Glass (“Barney Miller”) guest stars as D.A. Dennis Ford.
◊“Law & Order” (9 p.m. on NBC)(NBC Photo above features cast members S. Epatha Merkerson, Anthony Anderson and Jeremy Sisto): The longest-running crime series returns for its 19th season. Detectives Cyrus Lupo and Kevin Bernard return to investigate crimes and apprehend suspects under the supervision of precinct lieutenant Anita Van Buren.
◊“Medal of Honor” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): Oklahoma native Alfre Woodard (“My Own Worst Enemy”) narrates this new documentary that traces the history of the nation’s highest military honor back to the Civil War. It also profiles 18 recipients, including a Vietnam-era Army chaplain who returned his medal.
◊“The New Adventures of Old Christine” (7 p.m. on CBS): Barb and Christine prepare for a non-relationship-seeking double date, but jealousy arises when one date goes better than the other. Tim DeKay (Bizarro Jerry on “Seinfeld”) reunites with Julia Louis-Dreyfus as her date.

THURSDAY NOV. 6
◊“50 Cent: The Money and the Power” (9 p.m. on MTV): Rapper 50 Cent (born Curtis Jackson) schools 14 aspiring business moguls in the art of success. Each week, the rapper will test the candidates on the knowledge he has taught them while pushing them to their limit. The candidate with the best business flair, strength, ambition and fearlessness will receive $100,000 from 50 Cent.
◊“30 Rock” (8:31 p.m. on NBC): Liz flies to Chicago to get out of jury duty and on her return flight ends up with an asigned seat next to Oprah Winfrey.
◊“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (8 p.m. on CBS): When the CSI team investigates a case involving the world of domination, Grissom pays a visit to Lady Heather to help find some answers. Melinda Clarke (“The O.C.”) returns as Lady Heather. Grammy-winning rock band Linkin Park’s new hit single “Leave Out All the Rest” will be prominently featured in the episode.
◊“Grey’s Anatomy” (8 p.m. on ABC): Erica discovers a shocking connection between a longtime patient and one her her surgical residents. Kevin McKidd (“Rome”) guest stars.
◊High School Football: Edmond Santa Fe at Moore, 7:30 p.m. on Cox.
◊“Life on Mars” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): A racial war is sparked when a young black girl is murdered, and Sam and the detectives at the 1-2-5 face off with the neighborhood and each other. Whoopi Goldberg (“The View”) guest stars as Disc Jockey Brother Lovebutter.

FRIDAY NOV. 7
◊“CMT Crossroads” (8 p.m. on CMT): Country music singer Taylor Swift, 18, takes the stage with British rock band Def Leppard, whose members range in age from 45 to 50. Taylor and Def Leppard lead singer Joe Elliott swap lyrics on such hit songs as “Photograph,” “Hysteria,” “Picture to Burn” and “Love Story.”
◊“Don’t Forget the Lyrics” (8 p.m. on Fox): The original members of the female R&B vocal quartet En Vogue reunite to lock in the lyrics for charity.
◊“Henry Rollins: Uncut From New Orleans” (9:30 p.m. on IFC): Three years after the destruction from Hurrican Katrina, the opinionated former lead singer of Black Flag ventures to New Orleans to examine the city’s current condition first hand.
◊High School Football: Edmond North at Westmoore, 7:30 p.m. on KSBI-52; Claremore at Sapulpa, 7:30 p.m. on Cox.
◊“Survivorman” (8 p.m. on Discovery): Survival expert Les Stroud is back for a third season of intense temperatures, frustrations and challenges as he attempt to deliver episodes that demonstrate key survival skills.
◊“NUMB3RS” (9 p.m. on CBS): Don and the team investigate the disappearance of a magician after she mysteriously vanishes during an illusion. Magician Penn Jillette guest stars as himself.
◊“Whale Wars” (8 p.m. on Aninmal Planet): Join Captain Paul Watson and his conservation Society, Sea Shepherd, as they lead crusades against alleged illegal whaling operations, all documented in this new series.

SATURDAY NOV. 8
◊“Mail Order Bride” (8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel): Daphne Zuniga (“Melrose Place”) stars as con artist Diana McQueen, who escapes from her boss (Greg Evigan, “My Two Dads”) by posing as her recently deceased friend who was moving to Wyoming as a mail order bride.
◊“True Jackson, VP” (8:30 p.m. on Nickelodeon): Keke Palmer (“Akeelah and the Bee”) stars in this new family-friendly sitcom as a smart-beyond-her-years teen heroine who is tapped to head the youth division of a major fashion label.
◊“Tasty Time With Zefronk” (5:25 a.m. on Disney): This new animated series for preschoolers features ZeFronk, a French Dachsund, who hosts a cooking show from his doghouse. He whips of healthy snacks for friends with the help of a bird named Sue.

–Penny TV

comments

Program Planner: Oct. 26-Nov. 1

Posted by television

on October 23, 2008 at 9:00 am

SUNDAY OCT. 26
◊“Brothers & Sisters” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Chad Lowe (“Life Goes On”) directs today’s episode titled “You Get What You Need,” in which Nora and Holly discuss William’s long lost son.
◊“Cities of the Underworld” (8 p.m. on History): Host Don Wildman is once again tearing through the streets of the world’s most famous cities to uncover secrets hundres of feet beneath the pavement. The Season 3 premiere stops in London.
◊“Entourage” (9 p.m. on HBO): Jamie-Lynn Sigler (“The Sopranos”) guest stars as herself in the new episode “First Class Jerk.” She finds herself next to Turtle on a plane, and he makes a mile-high claim his friends don’t buy.
◊“The Ghost of Mae Nek” (11 p.m. on Sundance): In this new take on a scary Thai legend, a pair of young newlyweds acquires an abandoned house in Bangkok that is the domain of a vengeful spirit.
◊“Mad Men” (9 p.m. on AMC): The Emmy-winning drama series starring Jon Hamm and John Slattery concludes its second season with the episode titled “Meditations on an Emergency.”
◊“Nature” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): “White Falcon, White Wolf” follows the perilous parenthood of two species — white gyrfalcons and Arctic wolves — that raise their families on Canada’s remote Ellesmere Island, where June is spring, July is summer and August is autumn.
MONDAY OCT. 27
◊“Boston Legal” (9:02 p.m. on ABC): Alan Shore and Denny Crane saddle up at a dude rance, but they find themselves at odds with their fellow horse enthusiasts and in court. Betty White (“The Bold and the Beautiful”) guest stars.
◊“Car Toons” (5:56 p.m. today through Wednesday on Toon Disney, channel 151 on Cox Digital Cable, 174 on Dish Network, 292 on Direct TV): This new animated short series features Mater, the rusty firetruck from the film “Cars.” All three short films will air throughout the day Saturday on the Disney Channel.
◊“Chuck” (7 p.m. on NBC): Life in espionage takes its toll on Chuck, who tries to explain his unusual behavior to the Buy More efficiency expert (Tony Hale, “Arrested Development”).
◊“How to Make a Hole-in-One” (10 p.m. on Golf Channel): Nick Faldo, who has made 11 aces, provides instruction in this humorous look at how to make golf’s toughest shot.
◊“Lisa Williams: Voices From the Other Side” (10 a.m. today through Friday on Lifetime): English clairvoyant Lisa Williams returns with a new five-episode special programming event airing this week. Each episode will feature Williams doing one-on-one readings in a studio and impromptu meetings with people on the street.
◊“Primal Fear” 8 p.m. on History): This two-hour special explores human fears, such as being buried alive, getting bit by a snake and drowning. The special will replay at 9 p.m. Friday.
◊“Two and a Half Men” (8 p.m. on CBS): This rebroadcast from May was directed by series star Jon Cryer (Alan) and features guest star Susan Blakely (“Rich Man, Poor Man”).

TUESDAY OCT. 28
◊“Billy Wilder Speaks” (5:45 p.m. on TCM): This documentary uses footage from interviews director Billy Wilder gave over the years to tell the story of the man behind “Sunset Boulevard,” “Some Like It Hot,” “The Apartment” and other classics.
◊“Coolio’s Rules” (9 p.m. on Oxygen): Hip-hop star Coolio returns from life on the road and tries to get his family life in order in this new six-episode reality series.
◊“Dirty Jobs” (8 p.m. on Discovery): Host Mike Rowe teams up with the boys from Bartos Bait & Fish in Waubun, Minn., to catch leeches that will later be sold for fish bait.
◊“Greek” (8 p.m. on ABC Family)(ABC Family Photo above features Spencer Grammer, Lauren Conrad and Amber Stevens): Lauren Conrad (“The Hills”) guest stars as a spiritual adviser to Casey (Spencer Grammer) in the show’s second-season finale.
◊“Independent Lens” (10 p.m. on OETA-13): Directors Sabiha Sumar and Sachithanandam sit down with Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf to address his ideas of a democratized society in their country.
◊“Nova” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): The revolutionary new branch of math called fractals is the subject of the new episode “Hunting the Hidden Dimension.” It looks at how this “new math” could change our understanding of life.

WEDNESDAY OCT. 29
◊“Biography” (8 p.m. on Biography): Presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama will be featured in back-to-back profiles.
◊“Criminal Minds” (8 p.m. on CBS): A serial killer who jumps trains and targets people living near the railway is the subject of a Behavioral Analysis Unit manhunt. Meta Golding (“Eli Stone”) guest stars.
◊“Ghost Hunters” (8 p.m. on SCI FI): Colin Ferguson (“Eureka”) joins the TAPS team to investigate the historic USS Hornet aircraft carrier in San Francisco.
◊“Pushing Daisies” (7 p.m. on ABC): Ned is startled when a mysterious man (Stephen Root, “The West Wing”) appears at the diner claiming to be an old friend of his dad’s and asks for his help in finding him.
◊“A Ride Along the Lincoln Highway” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): Rick Sebak, inventor of the public television nostalgia documentary, takes viewers on an armchair trip on the United States’ first transcontinental highway, built in 1913.
◊“Shaken Not Stirred” (8 p.m. on My Network TV): This new series of specials morphs the old-school roast with edgy nighttime talk. The first installment welcomes Rev. Al Sharpton and “toasters” Anthony Anderson, D.L. Hughley, Paul Rodriguez and John Salley.
◊“Top Design” (9 p.m. on Bravo): Jeff Lewis (“Flipping Out”) is back to judge part one of the Season 2 finale, in which each designer is given one room in a house to create the best possible space.

THURSDAY OCT. 30
◊“30 Rock” (8:31 p.m. on NBC): In the third-season premiere of the two-time Emmy winner for best comedy series, Liz tries to keep the TGS (“The Girlie Show”) staff from ruining her chances at adoption when an evaluator (Megan Mullaly, “Will & Grace”) drops by the job.
◊“Austin City Limits” (10 p.m. on OETA-13): Wallflowers leader Jakob Dylan showcases tunes from his debut solo album “Seeing Things.”
◊“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (8 p.m. on CBS): The CSI team investigates the suspicious death of a young woman who turns out to be the daughter of a wanted criminal. Nicholas Turturro (”I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry”) and Jason Lewis (”Sex and the City”) guest star.
◊“Eleventh Hour” (9:01 p.m. on CBS): When a deadly virus infects a demolition site in Pittsburgh, Dr. Hood is called in to contain a potentially lethal outbreak. Oded Fehr (“Sleeper Cell”) guest stars.
High School Football: Norman North plays Edmond Santa Fe at 7:30 p.m. on Cox.
◊“Iconoclasts” (9 p.m. on Sundance): This installment of the series that pairs together two leading innovators from different fields to discuss their passions features skateboarder Tony Hawk and actor Jon Favreau.
◊“Jacked: Auto Theft Task Force” (9 p.m. on A&E): In the season finale, the force gets a computerized license plate reader and takes it out for a spin/
◊“Life on Mars” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Sam is pulled back into his childhood when he becomes entangled in a local gangster’s assault on a young woman, who turns out to be his mother. Robert Klein (“The Stones”) guest stars as a mob boss.
◊“Ugly Betty” (7 p.m. on ABC): Betty finds herself competing with Kimmie (Lindsay Lohan, “Georgia Rule”), who finally shows her true colors. Ralph Macchio (“The Karate Kid”) guest stars as a new customer at Hilda’s shop.

FRIDAY OCT. 31
◊“100 Scariest Moments” and “Even Scarier Movie Moments” (3 to 10 p.m. on Bravo): These back-to-back specials count down the most bone-chilling scenes in cinematic history. What will the scariest movie moment of all time be?
◊“Die, Monster, Die!” (8:30 p.m. on TCM): In this 1965 adaptation of a story by H.P. Lovecraft, Boris Karloff plays an Englishman whose household is being destroyed by a mysterious meteor that crash-landed nearby.
◊“Doomed to Die? 13 Most Shocking Hollywood Curses” (7 p.m. on E!): This hourlong countdown examines the mysteries, misfortunes and uncanny coincidences surrounding some of Hollywood’s most famous curses.
◊“Ghost Hunters Live” (6 p.m. on SCI FI): The TAPS team led by Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson returns to the Fort Delaware for this live Halloween special. During their last visit in June, they experienced a variety of paranormal encounters.
◊High School Football: Choctaw plays Stillwater at 7:30 p.m. on KSBI-52; Sapulpa plays Sand Springs at 7:30 p.m. on Cox.
◊“True Hollywood Story” (8 p.m. on E!): Star Jones, whose publicized feuds with her former co-hosts on “The View” made her a household name, is profiled.

SATURDAY NOV.1
◊“Archangel” (7 p.m. on ION): Daniel Craig (“Casino Royale”) stars in this three-hour thriller that was adapted from author Robert Harris’ novel of the same name. The movie revists the stark landscape of Communist Russia and takes place over four days in the life of former Oxford historian Fluke Kelson (Craig).
◊“Center Stage: Turn It Up” (7 p.m. on Oxygen): This sequel to the 2000 feature film reunites Peter Gallagher (“The O.C.”) and ballet star Ethan Stiefel. They reprise their roles as Academy Artistic Director Jonathan Reeves (Gallagher) and teacher Cooper Nielsen (Stiefel) at the
fictitious New York City American Ballet Academy.
◊“Legend of the Seeker” (5 p.m. on KOKH-25): This new syndicated fantasy series follows the extraordinary travels of woodsman Richard Cypher (Craig Horner), who must stop a ruthless tyrant from unleashing an ancient evil and enslaving the world. The series kicks off with a two-hour premiere.
◊“Gladiators” (3 p.m. on BBC America): This British version of the popular competition series features 12 new Gladiators who rule the arena and control the fate of the contenders.

–Penny TV

comments

Program Planner: Oct. 19-25

Posted by television

on October 16, 2008 at 7:00 am

SUNDAY, OCT. 19
◊“Futurama” (7 p.m. on Comedy Central): The Emmy Award winning animated series begins a new four-part adventure titled “Beast With a Billion Backs.” Philip J. Fry and
the crew at Planet Express discover a giant hole in the universe and a one-eyed tentacular alien on the other side.
◊“Pulling” (8 p.m. on Sundance): This six-episode British series has been added to the network’s lineup. It follows a bride-to-be who realizes that getting married to her long–term boyfriend isn’t the best of ideas.
◊“Storm Chasers” (9 p.m. on Discovery): Reed Timmer, a PhD candidate in Meteorology at the University of Oklahoma, joins noted research meteorologist Dr. Joshua Wurman and filmmaker Sean Casey for the show’s second season. They provide a first-hand look at tornadoes demonstrate how research is helping improve early warning systems.

MONDAY, OCT. 20
◊“American Experience” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): ‘‘Beautiful Texas/My Fellow Americans,” Part 1 of the two-parter ‘‘LBJ,” paints an intricate portrait of President Lyndon B. Johnson via family movies, rare photos and interviews.
◊“Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations” (9 p.m. on Travel Channel): For Season 4, Anthony Bourdain spans the far reaches of the globe to bring viewers a diverse selection of sights, smells, sounds and tastes.
◊“Boston Legal” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Annie Potts (“Designing Women”) guest stars as Jerry Espenson’s sister who needs his help to find out the identity of the father of her son.
◊“Chuck” (7 p.m. on NBC): Chuck learns more about Sarah’s past when they run into her old high school nemesis, Heather Chandler (Nicole Richie, “The Simple Life”). Ben Savage (”Boy Meets World”) guest stars as Heather’s nerdy husband.
◊“El Rostro de Analia” (8 p.m. on KTUZ-30): This new series, which translates to “The Face of Analia,” follows a woman whose face is reconstucted in the image of her murderer, and she returns from the dead to re-claim what is hers.
◊“How I Met Your Mother” (7:30 p.m. on CBS): After Stella and Ted make the spontaneous decision to get married in three days, the presence of their exes destroys what was to be the happiest day of their lives. Sarah Chalke (”Scrubs”) and Jason Jones (”The Daily Show With Jon Stewart”) guest star.
◊“Jose Canseco: Last Shot” (9 p.m. on A&E): This new special focuses on Jose Canseco, the Cuban-born baseball player who admitted to using steroids and named other players who did in his 2005 autobiography. Now in his 40s, he’s still taking the drugs and wants to get clean.
◊“Real Chance of Love” (8 p.m. on VH1): Bachelor brothers Real and Chance, who were not lucky in love on “I Love New York,” get a second chance in this new reality series. They are the ones in countrol this time as 17 women move into their ranch house to fight for their hearts.
◊“Rita Rocks” (7:30 p.m. on Lifetime): This new sitcom stars Nicole Sullivan (‘‘MADtv”) as the title character, who’s suffering from a case of ‘‘having it all syndrome.” Oklahoma City-born actress Tisha Campbell-Martin (‘‘My Wife and Kids”) co-stars.
◊“Scream Queens” (9 p.m. on VH1): This new series follows 10 unknown actresses in search of their big break as they compete for a role in the upcoming movie “Saw VI.”
◊“Ski Patrol” (7 p.m. on truTV): This new series spotlights an elite group of patrollers from Crystal Mountain, Wash., and Blue Mountain, Pa., who keep the ski slopes safe. Their special training makes them part mountain recuers, part medical technicians and part cops.

TUESDAY, OCT. 21
◊“Eli Stone” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Katie Holmes (“Batman Begins”) guest stars as an attorney whose mysterious fate leads her to Eli.
◊“Frank TV” (10 p.m. on TBS): Comedian and impressionist Frank Caliendo’s late-night series returns with new episodes and two new regulars: fellow impressionists Mike MacRae and Freddy Lockhart.
◊“The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency” (9 p.m. on Oxygen): The models hit the runway for a green fashion show in the season finale. A “Reunion” show follows and features some never-before-seen spy camp footage.
◊“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” (9 p.m. on NBC): Detectives Stabler and Benson investigate the case of a baby infected with AIDS. Martin Mull (“Mrs. Doubtfire”) guest stars as a homeopathic doctor who goes on trial for the death of a young girl with AIDS.
◊“Living With the Wolfman” (9 p.m. on Animal Planet): This new series chronicles the adventures of Shaun, a wolf expert who’s spent the past several years raising a wild pack of the beasts in an English wildlife park.
◊“Nova” (7 p.m. on OETA-13): In the new episode ‘‘Parallel Worlds, Parallel Lives,” Mark Oliver Everett (E of the band the EELS) travels across American to learn about the father he never knew — Hugh Everett III, one of America’s top quantum physicists who, in 1957 came up with a revolutionary theory that predicted the existence of parallel universes.
◊“Public Enemies: The Golden Age of the Gangster Film” (7 p.m. on TCM): Alec Baldwin (“30 Rock”) narrates this new documentary that traces the growth of the crime movie genre.
◊“Rookies” (9 p.m. on A&E): This new series follows a new class of cadets as they graduate from the police academy in Tampa, Fla., and begin 12 weeks of street patrol in a city where the crime rate is sky-high.
◊“Scream 2008″ (8 p.m. on SPIKE): This awards show honors the best in horror, science fiction, fantasy and comics. Leading the way for the third annual event is the summer blockbuster ‘‘The Dark Knight” with 21 nominations.
◊“Without a Trace” (9 p.m. on CBS): The team investitages when the teenage son of a Secret Service agent disappears. Steven Weber (”Brothers & Sisters”) returns as Clark Medina, the new head of the Missing Persons Squad.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22
◊“Criminal Minds” (8 p.m. on CBS): The Behavioral Analysis Unit team hunts for a serial killer who stages car accidents to hide the true nature of his crimes. William Mapother (“Lost”) and Wil Wheaton (“Stand By Me”) guest star.
◊“CSI: NY” (9 p.m. on CBS): The murder of a corporate fixer takes the investigators into the disparate worlds of political corruption, personal betrayal and silicone dolls. Mykelti Williamson (”Forrest Gump”) guest stars as chief od detectives Brigham Sinclair.
◊“Dirty Sexy Money” (9:01 p.m. on ABC): Former CBS news anchor Dan Rather modorates a debate bwteen senatorial candidate Patrick Darling and his opponent.
◊“Independent Lens” (8 p.m. on OETA-13): The new season opens with “Chicago 10,” which combines animated segments with archival footage to revisit the infamous trial of eight men accused of incitement to riot at the 1968 Democratic National Convention.
◊“Pushing Daisies” (7 p.m. on ABC): When the most popular escort at a rent-a-friend agency turns up dead, the team investigates who killed him, including the guy’s antisocial taxidermy-loving roommate (David Arquette, “Scream”).

THURSDAY, OCT 23
◊The Third Annual BET Hip Hop Awards (7 p.m. on BET): Katt Williams (“Norbit”) hosts the event that pays homage to urban music and culture. Lil’ Wayne received 12 nominations, followed by Kanye West with eight and Jay Z with six.
◊“Celebrity Rehab With Dr. Drew” (9 p.m. on VH1): Celebrity patients joining Dr. Drew Pinsky in his show’s second season include Sean Stewart (“Sons of Hollywood”), Tawny Kitaen (”The New WKRP in Cincinnati”) and Steven Adler (Guns n Roses). Gary Busey (“Into the West”), who is 13 years sober from his cocaine addiction, will share his experiences with the others.
◊“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” (8 p.m. on CBS): The CSI team investigates a series of victims found frozen in place after death. Lauren Lee Smith (“The L Word”) joins the cast as CSI Riley Adams.
◊“Grey’s Anatomy” (8 p.m. on ABC): Bailey spearheads a domino surgery in which each procedure depends on the success of the one before it. Kevin McKidd (“Rome”) and Carl Lumbly (“Alias”) guest star.
High School Football: Norman vs. Westmoore at 7:30 p.m. on KSBI-52; Tulsa Edison vs. Tulsa Central at 7:30 p.m. on Cox.
◊“Iconoclasts” (9 p.m. on Sundance): This installment of the series that pairs together two leading innovators from different fields features fashion designer Stella McCartney (daughter of Paul McCartney) and artist Edward Ruscha (born in Nebraska and raised in Oklahoma City).
◊“Johny Cash’s America” (8 p.m. on Bio Channel): Chris Cooper (“American Beauty”) narrates this two-hour documentary that sheds new light on the life and times of the “man in black.” Included are interviews with Cash’s family, Al Gore, Sheryl Crow and more.
◊“Ugly Betty” (7 p.m. on ABC): Lindsay Lohan (“Mean Girls”) returns as Kimmie Keegan, who asks for Betty’s help in finding a job.

FRIDAY, OCT. 24
◊High School Football: Putnam North vs. Mustang at 7:30 p.m. on KSBI-52; Midwest City vs. Putnam City at 7:30 p.m. on Cox.
◊“True Hollywood Story: Heidi Klum” (8 p.m. on E!): Heidi Klum, a supermodel whose list of accomplishments also includes designer, producer and mother, is profiled.

SATURDAY, OCT. 25
◊“America’s Toughest Job” (7 p.m. on NBC): The final four contestants revisit the most challenging jobs of the season — logging, oil rigging and crab fishing — to decide who takes home the cash prize. The winner gets the combined first-year salary of all the jobs completed this season.
◊“Generation Gap” (8 p.m. on Hallmark)(Pictured above in Hallmark Channel Photo): Ed Asner (”Lou Grant”) stars as a crusty veteran taking care of his rebellious grandson (Alex Black) for the summer. Oklahoma native Rue McClanahan (”The Golden Girls”) plays a waitress who pursues Asner’s character and Ralph Waite (”The Waltons”) plays his war buddy.
◊“Giada at Home” (noon on Food Network): Chef Diada De Laurentiis shares her recipes for Halloween spice cake with orange butter cream and chocolate-dipped nougat with dried apricots.
◊“Paula’s Party” (7 p.m. on Food Network): Chef Paula Deen makes baked pumpkin ziti with fitness guru Richard Simmons, pumpkins cakes with Anna Gasteyer (“Saturday Night Live”) and a spicy vampire dip with Kyle Massey (“Cory in the House”).
◊“Rocco Gets Real” (noon on A&E): This new series follows celebrity chef Rocco DiSpirito as he travels the country to help those who are clueless in the kitchen through everyday cooking dilemmas.
◊“Saturday Night Live” (10:29 p.m. on NBC): Today’s host is Jon Hamm, who won a Golden Globe and received SAG and Emmy nominations for his role on “Mad Men.” Coldplay is the
musical guest.
◊“The World’s Ugliest Dog Competition” (9 p.m. on Animal Planet): Beth Ostrosky (“Filter”) hosts this special that follows contestants as they prepare for the annual event in Petaluma, Calif.
–Penny TV

Program Planner: Jan. 4-10

Program Planner: Dec. 28-Jan. 3

Program Planner: Dec. 21-27

Program Planner: Dec. 14-20

Program Planner: Nov. 30-Dec. 6

Program Planner: Nov. 23-29

Program Planner: Nov. 9-15

Program Planner: Nov. 2-8

Program Planner: Oct. 26-Nov. 1

Program Planner: Oct. 19-25

TV Blog

Search

Archives

Categories

Recent Posts

Buy photos from NewsOK

Meta

Television stories