Comic Con Analysis for TV Watchers and Wannabes Part One

You've probably seen all of the news smothered over the internet like Smuckers raspberry preserves (yum), and you may have even seen some of the panels.

Now I want to pick it apart and analyze it all. What does all of this MEAN?

The week before Comic Con a little event called the TCA Fall Press Tour happened...not that'd you'd know, because it got a thimble-size of the press Comic Con received. Anymore the networks realize that connecting with fans is as important (if not moreso) than chattering at TV critics and reporters who cover this stuff for a living. Granted, most critics are also TV fans, and it becomes evident as they pick good quality shows to support which just don't get the ratings they need to survive. It happens every year.

Still, getting fans engaged, the kind who go to big events like Comic Con can be "make or break" for a film, and now for TV shows too. Lost set the precedent (though I'm sure other shows have visited before that show launched) for launching at Comic Con and getting fan support early. If the fans like you, buzz builds online and people get excited for the show.

The lesson learned in 2007 was it is not enough to hype the pilot. Too many shows (See: Invasion, Surface, Bionic Woman and Journeyman) placed too much emphasis on the pilot and not on the whole show. The good news, is that for the shows that approach the marketing of their shows with creativity and flair (and let's be fair, we're talking mostly 'genre' shows here), it can pay great dividends. Two years ago Heroes was the belle of the ball. Last year the big buzz was around Pushing Daisies and Sarah Connor Chronicles. All of those shows saw good sampling based in part on their launches at Comic Con.

So what about this year? Who has benefited the most from their appearances at Comic Con. Let's give each network a grade.

ABC presented panels for Lost and Pushing Daisies, both returning shows. ABC hasn't picked up their midseason shows yet, and their new fall shows don't really qualify as 'genre'. Both panels were packed and response was very positive. The "Lost" panel gave away some fun prizes to people who asked questions and showed a short teaser video tieing into the new ARG running this year. They put the panel in the largest room (Hall H) which shows just how much demand there is for the show at Comic Con. "Daisies" also got good buzz going again with some clips for next season (the benefit for returning shows this year is that most have already started shooting at least a couple of episodes, so there was stuff to show). ABC did a good job with their show promotion, though I think "Daisies" could have used a stronger push. Overall, a good job. Grade: A-

CBS had no presence at Comic Con this year. Their only new genre show is Harper's Island which was nowhere to be seen. Viacom makes up for this shortcoming with its Showtime offerings, which we'll get to later. Grade: D

Fox pulled out all the stops for its shows. Not only did the new J.J. Abrahms show Fringe get lots of viral marketing, a panel and a screening of the pilot, but Fox was there to strongly promote Season 2 of Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles and other returning shows. Offerings ranged from the obvious (The Simpsons, Family Guy, 24) to the surprising (Bones, Prison Break, American Dad. And then there was Joss. Of course, nothing could hold back the hordes of Whedonites who needed their fix of Dollhouse. The panels were all well attended (although Fringe was less full than I expected), the marketing was really great for the fall premieres, and definitely buzz was built for the new shows. I think Fox knows how to promote their genre offerings. Grade: A

NBC After mixed results from their Comic Con promotion last year, I was glad to see that NBC bounced back and charged ahead aggressively. They too presented some unusual offerings -- The Office writers panel? (A dream for us!) But they were in full force for freebies and viral campaigns for Knight Rider, Chuck, The Office, and Heroes. They also did well to give lots of early info on midseason show Kings which got some good buzz and attention at the Con. Disappointments: No Merlin or Crusoe news. Their booth in the exhibit hall was similar to last year, but the giveaways were good, and the Comic Con exclusive merchandise was very popular. Grade: A-

The CW Okay, so I know Supernatural and Smallville were both there, but where the heck was Reaper?? Grade: C- (Kudos to WB for promoting their studio backed shows -- they had the Nerd Herd car giveaway/drawing)

Hard to believe that was just the network presence! Next post: The cable nets, and how does this impact writing specs?

UPDATE: A myriad of panels!

NBC's Show Panels

The 2007-08 Season TV Watch List

Updated on 06/10.

New Series Premiere Dates / Status:

NETWORK:

• Dance War (ABC) (could return next year)
  
• Farmer Wants a Wife (CW) Wed 9 PM
  
• Swingtown (CBS) Thurs 10 PM
  
• Fear Itself (NBC) Thurs 10 PM
  
• The Mole (ABC) Mon 9 PM
  
• When Women Rule the World (Fox) TBD 9 PM
  
• Celebrity Circus (NBC) 6/11 9 PM
  
• Wipeout (ABC) 6/24 8 PM
  
• I Survived a Japanese Gameshow (ABC) 6/24 9 PM
  
• The Baby Borrowers (NBC) 6/25 8 PM
  
• Hopkins 24/7 (documentary series) (ABC) 6/26 10 PM
  
• Dance Machine (ABC) 6/27 8 PM
  
• High School Musical: Summer Session (ABC) 7/20 8 PM
  
• Wanna Bet? (ABC) 7/21 9 PM
  
  

CABLE:

• Tell Me You Love Me (HBO) Sun 9 PM
  
• America's Psychic Challenge (Lifetime) Fri 10 PM
  
• Girl Meets Cowboy (We) Sun 10 PM
  
• The Shot (VH1) Sun 10 PM
  
• It's My Party (Lifetime) Fri 10 PM
  
• In Treatment (HBO) Mon 9:30 PM
  
• Step It Up and Dance (Bravo) Thurs 10 PM
  
• Sarah Jane Adventures (SciFi) Fri 8 PM
  
• The Alaska Experiment (Discovery) Tues 10 PM
  
• In Plain Sight (USA) Sun 10 PM
  
• Secret Diary of a Call Girl (Showtime) 6/16 10:30 PM
  
• The Starter Wife (series) (USA) October TBD
  
  

Renewed for 2008-09 Season (New shows for 07-08 indicated in bold):

• Damages (FX) (Also renewed for 2009-10)
  
• The Big Bang Theory (CBS) Mon 8:30 PM
  
• Dexter (Showtime) Sun 9 PM
  
• Ugly Betty (ABC) Thurs 8 PM
  
• Grey's Anatomy (ABC) Thurs 9 PM
  
• Desperate Housewives (ABC) Sun 9 PM
  
• Brothers & Sisters (ABC) Sun 10 PM
  
• Lost (ABC) Thurs 9 PM
  
• Dancing With the Stars (ABC) Mon 8 PM/Tues 9 PM
  
• America's Funniest Home Videos (ABC) Sun 7 PM (19th season)
  
• Supernanny (ABC) Wed 9 PM
  
• Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (ABC) Sun 8 PM
  
• Wife Swap (ABC) Wed 8 PM
  
• The Bachelor (ABC) Mon 9:30 PM
  
• WWE Smackdown (CW) Fri 8 PM (moving to MyNetwork TV next year!)
  
• Heroes (NBC) Mon 9 PM
  
• Gossip Girl (CW) Wed 9 PM
  
• America's Next Top Model (CW) Wed 8 PM
  
• Smallville (CW) Thurs 8 PM
  
• Everybody Hates Chris (CW) Mon 8 PM
  
• Supernatural (CW) Thurs 9 PM
  
• Survivor (CBS) Thurs 8 PM
  
• The Amazing Race (CBS) Sun 8 PM
  
• 60 Minutes (CBS) Sun 7 PM
  
• CSI: Miami (CBS) Mon 10 PM
  
• CSI: New York (CBS) Wed 10 PM
  
• C.S.I. (CBS) Thurs 9 PM
  
• NCIS (CBS) Tues 8 PM
  
• E.R. (NBC) Thurs 10 PM (renewed for 15th and last season)
  
• 24 (Fox) 9 PM (Won't air until January 09)
  
• One Tree Hill (CW) Tues 9 PM
  
• Big Brother (CBS) Tues 9 PM
  
• Prison Break (Fox) Mon 8 PM
  
• Samantha Who? (ABC) Mon 9:30 PM
  
• Dirty Sexy Money (ABC) Wed 10 PM
  
• Chuck (NBC) Mon 8 PM
  
• Life (NBC) Wed 10 PM
  
• Private Practice (ABC) Wed 9 PM
  
• Pushing Daisies (ABC) Wed 8 PM
  
• Kitchen Nightmares (Fox) Wed 9 PM
  
• Law and Order (NBC) Wed 9 PM
  
• Friday Night Lights (NBC) Fri 9 PM
  
• Lipstick Jungle (NBC) Thurs 10 PM
  
• How to Look Good Naked (Lifetime) Fri 9:30 PM
  
• 30 Rock (NBC) Thurs 8:30 PM
  
• Deal or No Deal (NBC) Wed 8 PM
  
• My Name is Earl (NBC) Thurs 8 PM
  
• The Office (NBC) Thurs 9 PM
  
• Medium (NBC) Mon 10 PM
  
• Celebrity Apprentice (NBC) Sun 8 PM
  
• Law and Order: SVU (NBC) Tues 10 PM
  
• Sarah Connor Chronicles (Fox) Mon 8 PM
  
• Tim Gunn's Guide to Style (Bravo) Wed 10 PM
  
• Project Runway (Lifetime) MOVING TO LIFETIME!!
  
• Sunday Best (BET) Sun 8 PM
  
• American Gangster (BET) Thurs 10 PM
  
• Real Housewives of Orange County (Bravo) 10 PM
  
• Top Chef (Bravo) Wed 10 PM
  
• Real Housewives of New York City (Bravo)
  
• Top Design (Bravo)
  
• Shear Genius (Bravo)
  
• The Millionaire Matchmaker (Bravo)
  
• Million Dollar Listing (Bravo)
  
• Breaking Bad (AMC) Thurs 10 PM
  
• American Idol (Fox) Tues/Wed 8 PM
  
• House (Fox) Mon 9 PM
  
• Bones (Fox) Tues 8 PM
  
• Lincoln Heights (ABC Family) Mon 8 PM
  
• Two and a Half Men (CBS) Mon 9 PM
  
• Ghost Hunters (SciFi) Wed 9 PM
  
• The Game (CW) Mon 9:30 PM
  
• Are You Smarter than a Fifth Grader? (Fox)
  
• Don't Forget the Lyrics! (Fox)
  
• Cops (Fox)
  
• America's Most Wanted (Fox)
  
• The Simpsons (Fox) Sun 8 PM
  
• Family Guy (Fox) Sun 9 PM
  
• Boston Legal (ABC) Wed 10 PM
  
• The Ghost Whisperer (CBS) Fri 8 PM
  
• The Tudors (Showtime) Sun 9 PM
  
• Eli Stone (ABC) Thurs 10 PM
  
• The Moment of Truth (Fox) Wed 9 PM (returns 6/12)
  
• Reaper (CW) Tues 9 PM
  
• The Unit (CBS) Tues 9 PM
  
• Cold Case (CBS) Sun 9 PM
  
• How I Met Your Mother (CBS) Mon 8 PM
  
• Rules of Engagement (CBS) Mon 9:30 PM
  
• Criminal Minds (CBS) Wed 9 PM
  
• Without a Trace (CBS) Thurs 10 PM
  
• Numb3rs (CBS) Fri 10 PM
  
• 20/20 (ABC) Fri 10 PM
  
• Scrubs (NBC) Thurs 9:30 PM (moves to ABC)
  
• According to Jim (ABC) Tues 9 PM (returns midseason)
  
• 10 Items or Less (TBS) 11 PM
  
• Tyler Perry's House of Payne (TBS) 10 PM
  
• Frank TV (TBS) Tues 11 PM
  
• The Bill Engvall Show (TBS)
  
• King of the Hill (Fox) Sun 8:30 PM
  
• American Dad (Fox) Sun 9:30 PM
  
• Torchwood (BBC America) Sat 9 PM [Season 3 only 5 eps no date]
  
  
  

Series Death Watch (New shows for 07-08 indicated in bold):

• Online Nation (CW)
  
• Nashville (Fox)
  
• Viva Laughlin (CBS)
  
• Kid Nation (CBS) Wed 8 PM
  
• Las Vegas (NBC) Fri 10 PM
  
• Girlfriends (CW) Mon 9 PM
  
• Jericho (CBS) Tues 10 PM
  
• The Return of Jezebel James (Fox) Fri 8:30 PM
  
• Journeyman (NBC) Mon 10 PM
  
• Bionic Woman (NBC) Wed 9 PM
  
• Phenomenon (NBC) Wed 8 PM
  
• Clash of the Choirs (NBC)
  
• Secret Talents of the Stars (CBS) Tues 10 PM
  
• Exalted! (BET) Sun 9 PM
  
• Amne$ia (NBC) Fri 8 PM
  
• Men in Trees (ABC) Wed 10 PM
  
• Battlestar Galactica (SciFi) 9 PM (Series Ending)
  
• Back to You (Fox) Wed 9:30 PM
  
• October Road (ABC) Mon 10 PM
  
• Aliens in America (CW) Mon 8:30 PM
  
• Beauty and the Geek (CW) Tues 8 PM
  
• New Amsterdam (Fox) Mon 9 PM
  
• K-ville (Fox) Mon 9 PM
  
• Big Shots (ABC) Thurs 10 PM
  
• CW Now (CW) Sun 7 PM
  
• Cavemen (ABC) Tues 8 PM
  
• Carpoolers (ABC) Tues 8:30 PM
  
• Cane (CBS) Tues 10 PM
  
• Life is Wild (CW) Sun 8 PM
  
• American Band (Fox) Fri 8 PM
  
• Crowned (CW) Wed 8 PM
  
• Women's Murder Club (ABC) Tues 10 PM
  
• Welcome to the Captain (CBS) Mon 8:30 PM
  
• Oprah's Big Give (ABC) Sun 9 PM
  
• Shark (CBS) Sun 10 PM
  
• Power of 10 (CBS) Wed 8 PM
  
• Pussycat Dolls Present: Girlicious Wed 9 PM
  
• Notes from the Underbelly (ABC) Mon 9:30 PM
  
• Duel (ABC) Fri 9 PM
  
• Moonlight (CBS) Fri 9 PM
  
• Cashmere Mafia (ABC) Wed 10 PM
  
• Canterbury's Law (Fox) Fri 9 PM
  
• The Singing Bee (NBC) Tues 9:30 PM
  
• Miss/Guided (ABC) Thurs 8PM
  
• quarterlife (Bravo) Tues 10 PM
  
• Unhitched (Fox) Sun 9:30 PM
  
• Dirt (FX) Tues 10 PM
  
  

Returning Series Premiere Dates:

NETWORK:

• Hell's Kitchen (Fox) Tues 9 PM
  
• The Bachelorette (ABC) Mon 9 PM
  
• Last Comic Standing (NBC) Thurs 8:30 PM
  
• So You Think You Can Dance? (Fox) Tues 8 PM
  
• Nashville Star (NBC) Mon 8 PM
  
• America's Got Talent (NBC) 6/17 9 PM
  
  

CABLE:

• Curb Your Enthusiasm (HBO) Sun 10 PM
  
• It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (FX) Thurs 10 PM
  
• The Ultimate Fighter (Spike) Wed 10 PM
  
• Stargate Atlantis (SciFi) Fri 10 PM
  
• Brotherhood (Showtime) Sun 10 PM
  
• South Park (Comedy Central) Wed 10 PM
  
• The Sarah Silverman Program (Comedy Central) Wed 10:30 PM
  
• Law and Order: Criminal Intent (USA) Sun 10 PM
  
• Drawn Together (Comedy Central) Fri 10:30 PM
  
• Nip/Tuck (FX) 10 PM
  
• The L Word (Showtime) 10 PM
  
• Hotel Babylon (BBC America) Wed 9 PM
  
• The Riches (FX) Tues 10 PM
  
• Greek (ABC Family) Mon 8 PM
  
• Deadliest Catch (Discovery) Tues 9 PM
  
• Doctor Who (SciFi) Fri 9 PM
  
• Workout (Bravo) Tues 10 PM
  
• Robin Hood (BBC America) Sat 9 PM
  
• Wildfire (ABC Family) Mon 9 PM
  
• Burn Notice (USA) 6/10 10 PM
  
• Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D List (Bravo) 6/12 9 PM
  
• Weeds (Showtime) 6/16 10 PM
  
• Flipping Out (Bravo) 6/17 9 PM
  
• Monk (USA) 6/18 9 PM
  
• Psych (USA) 6/18 10 PM
  
• 30 Days (FX) 7/3 10 PM
  
• The Shield (FX) 9/2 10 PM
  
  
  

A brief explanation of the watch list:

New shows premiere dates / status - consider this the neutral zone, detailing the premiere dates for new shows and tidbits of info which could forecast a move to another category.

Shows likely to be axed - their numbers aren't good, news stories point to it being yanked, it may soon end up in the cancelled category.

NEW Series Pickups- this doesn't mean it is renewed for next year, just that the series has gotten a full season order. (e.g., 'back nine' pickup).

Likely pickups - the numbers are good, all we need is the confirmation from the network (again, this is for full season orders, not renewals).

Renewed - Will be back next season (new or older shows).

Series death watch - they've been on the air and their time may be coming. We watch and wait... (new or older shows)

All other series premiere dates - Just what it says. These aren't new series, but their premiere dates are listed and updated, just as an added service to you, my loyal readers and googlers passing by...

** New this year, I will be tracking the reality shows as well as scripted

The fall schedules 2008-09

So, now that upfronts are over, let's take a look at how the networks stack up against each other next year. Keep in mind that now everyone has shown their cards, there may be a tweak here or there to move shows away from each other.

MONDAY

8 PM

ABC Dancing with the Stars
CBS The Big Bang Theory / How I Met Your Mother (8:30)
NBC Chuck
Fox Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles
CW Gossip Girl

9 PM

ABC Untitled Tyra Banks&Ashton Kutcher / Samantha Who (9:30)
CBS Two and a Half Men / Worst Week (9:30)
NBC Heroes
Fox Prison Break
CW One Tree Hill

10 PM

ABC The Bachelor / Boston Legal (after Bachelor ends)
CBS CSI: Miami
NBC My Own Worst Enemy

TUESDAY

8 PM

ABC Opportunity Knocks
CBS NCIS
NBC The Biggest Loser: Families
Fox House
CW 90210

9 PM

ABC Dancing Results Show / Scrubs/The Goode Family(9:30) (after Dancing ends)
CBS The Mentalist
NBC The Biggest Loser: Families / Kath & Kim (9:30)
Fox Fringe
CW Surviving the Filthy Rich

10 PM

ABC Eli Stone
CBS Without a Trace
NBC Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

WEDNESDAY

8 PM

ABC Pushing Daisies
CBS The New Adventures of Old Christine / Project Gary (8:30)
NBC Knight Rider
Fox Bones
CW America's Next Top Model

9 PM

ABC Private Practice
CBS Criminal Minds
NBC Deal or No Deal
Fox 'Til Death / Do Not Disturb (9:30)
CW Stylista

10 PM

ABC Dirty Sexy Money
CBS CSI:NY
NBC Lipstick Jungle

THURSDAY

8 PM

ABC Ugly Betty
CBS Survivor
NBC My Name is Earl / 30 Rock (8:30)
Fox The Moment of Truth
CW Smallville

9 PM

ABC Grey's Anatomy
CBS CSI
NBC The Office / The Office/SNL Thursday Night Live (9:30)
Fox Kitchen Nightmares
CW Supernatural

10 PM

ABC Life on Mars
CBS Eleventh Hour
NBC ER

FRIDAY

8 PM

ABC Supernanny
CBS The Ghost Whisperer
NBC Crusoe
Fox Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?
CW Everybody Hates Chris / The Game (8:30)

9 PM

ABC Wife Swap
CBS The Ex List
NBC Deal or No Deal
Fox Don't Forget the Lyrics!
CW America's Next Top Model (Encore Presentation)

10 PM

ABC 20/20
CBS Numb3rs
NBC Life

SATURDAY

8 PM

ABC College Football
CBS Crimetime Saturday
NBC Dateline NBC
Fox Cops / Cops (8:30)

9 PM

ABC College Football / Movie
CBS Crimetime Saturday
NBC Knight Rider (Encores)
Fox America's Most Wanted

10 PM

ABC College Football / Movie
CBS 48 Hours Mystery
NBC Law & Order: SVU (Encores)

SUNDAY

7 PM

ABC America's Funniest Home Videos
CBS 60 Minutes
NBC Football Night in America
Fox The OT (NFL post-game)

8 PM

ABC Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
CBS The Amazing Race
NBC NBC Sunday Night Football
Fox The Simpsons / King of the Hill (8:30)

9 PM

ABC Desperate Housewives
CBS Cold Case
NBC NBC Sunday Night Football
Fox Family Guy / American Dad (9:30)

10 PM

ABC Brothers & Sisters
CBS The Unit
NBC NBC Sunday Night Football

Upfronts 2008: ABC announces fall schedule

Okay, here it is. Most of the changes are reserved for midseason at this point, as most of ABC's pilots have not been shot. ABC is announcing that next season will be the last for "Boston Legal" and yes, "Scrubs" will be on the fall schedule.

Here’s the ABC 2008-09 lineup:

Mondays

8 p.m. -- Dancing with the Stars / Untitled Tyra Banks-Ashton Kutcher [New]
9:30 p.m. -- Samantha Who
10pm -- The Bachelor / Boston Legal

Tuesdays
8 p.m. -- Opportunity Knocks [New]
9 p.m. -- Dancing Results Show / Scrubs [New] / Goode Family [New]
10 p.m. -- Eli Stone

Wednesdays
8 p.m. -– Pushing Daisies
9 p.m. -- Private Practice
10 p.m. -- Dirty Sexy Money

Thursdays
8 p.m. -- Ugly Betty
9 p.m. -- Grey’s Anatomy
10 p.m.-- Life on Mars [New]

Fridays
8 p.m. -– Supernanny
9 p.m. -– Wife Swap
10 p.m. --20/20

Sundays
7 p.m. -– America’s Funniest Home Videos
8 p.m. -– Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
9 p.m. –- Desperate Housewives
10 p.m.-– Brothers and Sisters

ABC has a very stable schedule, very few timeslot changes for the core shows. This, of course, is always good for fans, since their shows don't move around too much. "Life on Mars" appears to be keeping the "Lost" seat warm until January.

Thoughts? Agree/Disagree with ABC's fall moves? How about their continued strategy of programming all reality Friday nights, rather than jump into the scripted competition (their reality schedule typically places third for the night).

Interesting tidbits from the ABC press release:

And now, for those of you who want more than the basics, below is the ABC press release: (Warning, this is really long!)


ABC UNVEILS 2008-09 PRIMETIME SCHEDULE

New Series Include "The Goode Family," "Life on Mars," "Opportunity Knocks," "Scrubs" And "Untitled Ashton Kutcher/Tyra Banks Project"

Returning Series on the Fall Schedule Include "America's Funniest Home Videos," "Boston Legal," "Brothers & Sisters," "Dancing with the Stars," "Desperate Housewives," "Dirty Sexy Money," "Eli Stone," "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," "Grey's Anatomy," "Private Practice," "Pushing Daisies," "Samantha Who?," "Supernanny," "Ugly Betty," "Wife Swap" and "20/20"

Stephen McPherson, president, ABC Entertainment, today outlined ABC's plans for next season and unveiled the network's 2008-09 fall schedule before the advertising and media communities at Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall.

Scheduled to debut this fall are new drama "Life on Mars," and new alternative series "Opportunity Knocks" from executive producer Ashton Kutcher.

Returning series on the fall schedule are "America's Funniest Home Videos," "Boston Legal," "Brothers & Sisters," "Dancing with the Stars," "Desperate Housewives," "Dirty Sexy Money," "Eli Stone," "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," "Grey's Anatomy," "Private Practice," "Pushing Daisies," "Samantha Who?," "Supernanny," "Ugly Betty," "Wife Swap" and "20/20."

In addition, "Saturday Night College Football" will return for a fourth season.

New series for midseason include "The Goode Family," "Scrubs" and "Untitled Ashton Kutcher/Tyra Banks Project."

Other returning series include "According to Jim," "The Bachelor," "Lost" and ABC News' "Primetime: What Would You Do?"

"We're returning our dominant core group of shows from last fall," said McPherson. "The few openings we had we've filled with the kind of quality programming viewers have come to expect from ABC, and we have a very strong bench. As always, our focus is on delivering the best stories and most memorable characters on TV every day of the week, every week of the year."

For the 2007-08 TV season, ABC holds second place to an "American Idol" and "Super Bowl"-driven Fox among Adults 18-49. The ABC airs 6 of the Top 15 TV shows this season in the key Adult 18-49 sales demographic, including 3 of the Top 5 scripted series with "Desperate Housewives" (No. 1), "Grey's" (No. 3) and "Lost" (No. 5). In addition, 4 of the Top 6 most-watched television shows are on ABC. ABC claims 5 of the Top 10 freshman series this season, including the No. 1 new comedy in "Samantha Who?" (also the most-watched new scripted series this season). For the 3rd straight season the Network remains a top destination for affluent viewers, delivering 5 of the Top 10 highest-rated TV series and each of the Top 3 scripted shows among Adults 18-49 in homes w/$100K+ annual income.

ABC was a standout performer during Fall '07, prior to the strike-related scheduling disruptions, leading its nearest competition (CBS) from the start of the season through the end of November by 11% on average in Adults 18-49. Furthermore, ABC delivered the No. 1 position among young adults on 7 of the first 10 weeks this season, and ranked either first or second on 6 of 7 nights of the week throughout the fall. ABC won the November Sweep in Adults 18-49, its third consecutive year to hold the top spot for the month in the key sales demo.

Editors please note: Shows picked up but not listed on the schedule will debut later in the 2008-09 season. Photographs are available on www.abcmedianet.com.

ABC's fall primetime schedule is as follows (all times listed are Eastern, with new shows in bold):

DAY / TIME /SERIES

MONDAY: 8:00 p.m. "Dancing with the Stars" 9:30 p.m. "Samantha Who?" 10:00 p.m. "Boston Legal"

TUESDAY: 8:00 p.m. "Opportunity Knocks" 9:00 p.m. "Dancing with the Stars the Results Show" 10:00 p.m. "Eli Stone"

WEDNESDAY: 8:00 p.m. "Pushing Daisies" 9:00 p.m. "Private Practice" 10:00 p.m. "Dirty Sexy Money"

THURSDAY: 8:00 p.m. "Ugly Betty" 9:00 p.m. "Grey's Anatomy" 10:00 p.m. "Life on Mars"

FRIDAY: 8:00 p.m. "Wife Swap" 9:00 p.m. "Supernanny" 10:00 p.m. "20/20"

SATURDAY: 8:00 p.m. "Saturday Night College Football"

SUNDAY: 7:00 p.m. "America's Funniest Home Videos" 8:00 p.m. "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" 9:00 p.m. "Desperate Housewives" 10:00 p.m. "Brothers & Sisters"

NEW FALL SERIES

DRAMA

"LIFE ON MARS"

"Life on Mars" is based on the BBC series created by Matthew Graham, Tony Jordan and Ashley Pharoah. The series revolves around Sam Tyler, a modern-day police detective who, after a car crash, mysteriously finds himself transported back to 1973 and still working as a detective.

"Life on Mars" stars Jason O' Mara as Sam Tyler, Rachelle LeFevre as Annie Cartwright, Colm Meaney as Gene Hunt, Stephanie Jacobsen as Maya, Lenny Clarke as George Randall, Patrick Wenk-Wolff as Colin Raimes and Richard Benjamin as Milton Kornboll.

The series is produced by Twentieth Century Fox Television and ABC Studios. Josh Applebaum, Andre Nemec, Scott Rosenberg, Jane Featherstone, Stephen Garrett and David E. Kelley are the executive producers. The pilot episode of "Life on Mars" was executive-produced by David E. Kelley, Tommy Schlamme, Bob Breech, Jane Featherstone and Stephen Garrett, and was produced by David E. Kelley Productions in association with 20th Century Fox Television.

ALTERNATIVE

"OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS"

"Opportunity Knocks" is a new show that breaks the mold of typical game and reality shows. We will be showing up on America's doorstep and testing how well they know their family. Our mobile team will arrive at "Anywhere, America" in a semi-truck that is full of flat screen TVs, new furniture and big cash prizes that the family can win right there. We will take the action of a game show directly into our contestants' homes, setting up shop in a family's front lawn. The instant our host, JD Roth, knocks on the front door, the game will begin. Hollywood will invade a suburban neighborhood, and each week one lucky family will play the game of a lifetime in front of all their friends and neighbors.

The host poses trivia questions to family members based directly on their lives, each other and articles found in and around their home. If they're able to prove they know their family inside and out, they'll win the prizes of their dreams.

Executive producers for "Opportunity Knocks" are Ashton Kutcher, Jason Goldberg, Karey Burke, J.D. Roth and Todd A. Nelson. "Opportunity Knocks" is produced by Katalyst Films and 3 Ball Productions.

RETURNING FALL SERIES

DRAMA

"BOSTON LEGAL"

Led by an Emmy Award-winning cast, "Boston Legal" returns for a fifth season to tell the professional and personal stories of a group of brilliant but often emotionally-challenged attorneys. Fast-paced and wildly comedic, the series confronts social and moral issues, while its characters continually stretch the boundaries of the law.

"Boston Legal" stars James Spader as Alan Shore, John Larroquette as Carl Sack, Christian Clemenson as Jerry Espenson, Gary Anthony Williams as Clarence/Clarice Bell, Tara Summers as Katie Lloyd, Saffron Burrows as Lorraine Weller, Taraji P. Henson as Whitney Rome, with Candice Bergen as Shirley Schmidt and William Shatner as Denny Crane.

"Boston Legal" was created by David E. Kelley. Kelley and Bill D'Elia are executive producers. The series, which premiered October 3, 2004, is produced by David E. Kelley Productions in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television.

"BROTHERS & SISTERS"

"Brothers & Sisters" continues to follow the California-based Walker family through the complicated maze of American life today. The compelling one-hour drama series is about a collection of five enmeshed and somewhat damaged adult siblings and their strong but passionately devoted mother, Nora Holden (Oscar and Emmy Award winner Sally Field).

The Walkers' lives have not been without challenge; romance, parenting, divorce, infidelity, addiction, war and even death have pushed each of them to the limit, but they continue to work toward living their lives as individuals, while loving each other unconditionally and trying to maintain some semblance of normalcy after the loss of their larger-than-life family patriarch, William Walker.

"Brothers & Sisters" stars Dave Annable as Justin Walker, Maxwell Perry Cotton as Cooper Whedon, Kerris Lilla Dorsey as Paige, Sally Field as Nora Holden, Calista Flockhart as Kitty Walker, Balthazar Getty as Thomas Walker, Rachel Griffiths as Sarah Whedon, Rob Lowe as Senator Robert McCallister, Sarah Jane Morris as Julia Walker, Matthew Rhys as Kevin Walker, Ron Rifkin as Saul Holden, Emily VanCamp as Rebecca Harper and Patricia Wettig as Holly Harper.

The series is executive-produced by Ken Olin ("Alias," "thirtysomething"), Greg Berlanti ("Dirty Sexy Money," "Everwood"), Monica Owusu-Breen ("Lost," "Alias") and Alison Schapker ("Lost," "Alias"). It's produced by ABC Studios.

"DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES"

A primetime soap with a contemporary take on the "happily ever after," "Desperate Housewives" takes a darkly comedic look at suburbia, where the secret lives of housewives aren't always what they seem.

"Desperate Housewives" stars Teri Hatcher as Susan Mayer, Felicity Huffman as Lynette Scavo, Marcia Cross as Bree Van De Kamp, Eva Longoria Parker as Gabrielle Solis, Nicollette Sheridan as Edie Britt, Brenda Strong as Mary Alice Young, James Denton as Mike Delfino, Doug Savant as Tom Scavo, Ricardo Antonio Chavira as Carlos Solis, Andrea Bowen as Julie Mayer, Shawn Pyfrom as Andrew Van De Kamp, Joy Lauren as Danielle Van De Kamp, Rachel Fox as Kayla Huntington, Dana Delany as Katherine Mayfair, Lyndsy Fonseca as Dylan Mayfair, Zane Huett as Parker Scavo and Brent and Shane Kinsman as Porter and Preston Scavo.

Marc Cherry is executive producer and creator. Sabrina Wind, George Perkins, Larry Shaw and David Grossman are executive producers. "Desperate Housewives" is produced by ABC Studios and is the winner of both the 2005 & 2006 Golden Globe Award for Best Television Series Musical or Comedy.

"DIRTY SEXY MONEY"

Power, privilege and family money are a volatile cocktail. Living proof of this are the Darlings of New York City, so absurdly wealthy, they put the "upper" in Upper East Side. This preeminent family are always getting mixed up with the wrong people and finding themselves in the middle of bad situations. It'll take a miracle to take care of the legal and sometimes illegal needs of the Darlings. That miracle comes in the form of Nick George.

"Dirty Sexy Money" stars Peter Krause as Nick George, Donald Sutherland as Tripp Darling, William Baldwin as Patrick Darling, Natalie Zea as Karen Darling, Glenn Fitzgerald as Rev. Brian Darling, Seth Gabel as Jeremy Darling, Zoe McLellan as Lisa George, with Blair Underwood as Simon Elder, and Jill Clayburgh as Letitia Darling and Lucy Liu as Nola Lyons.

"Dirty Sexy Money" was created by Emmy-nominated Craig Wright ("Brothers & Sisters," "Lost," "Six Feet Under"). Wright, Greg Berlanti ("Brothers & Sisters," "Everwood"), Oscar and Golden Globe-nominated Matthew Gross ("Day Break," "Across the Universe"), Bryan Singer ("House," "Superman Returns," "The Usual Suspects") and Daniel Cerone ("Dexter") are executive producers. The series is produced by ABC Studios.

"ELI STONE"

Eli Stone is a partnership-track associate lawyer with a beautiful fiance and a forgotten dream to change the world, when one day a vision of George Michael singing his song "Faith" leads him to a case defending the rights of a college sweetheart and her son. Propelled on a journey of self-discovery and guided by more mysterious visions, Eli is either suffering from delusions associated with a brain aneurysmor receiving a call from God to become a modern-day prophet.

"Eli Stone" stars Jonny Lee Miller as Eli Stone, Victor Garber as Jordan Wethersby, Natasha Henstridge as Taylor Wethersby, Loretta Devine as Patti, Sam Jaeger as Matt Dowd, James Saito as Dr. Chen, Matt Letscher as Nathan Stone and Julie Gonzalo as Maggie Dekker.

Greg Berlanti ("Brothers & Sisters," "Dirty Sexy Money," "Everwood") and Marc Guggenheim ("Brothers & Sisters," "Law & Order," "The Practice") are co-creators and executive producers. Chris Misiano ("The West Wing") also serves as executive producer and director. The series is produced by ABC Studios.

"GREY'S ANATOMY"

"Grey's Anatomy" is the recipient of the 2007 Golden Globe Award for Best Drama Television Series and multiple Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Drama Series for the past two years.

The doctors of Seattle Grace Hospital deal with life-or-death consequences on a daily basis it's in one another that they find comfort, friendship and, at times, more than friendship. Together they're discovering that neither medicine nor relationships can be defined in black and white. Real life only comes in shades of grey.

"Grey's Anatomy" stars Ellen Pompeo as Meredith Grey, Patrick Dempsey as Derek Shepherd, Sandra Oh as Cristina Yang, Katherine Heigl as Isobel "Izzie" Stevens, Justin Chambers as Alex Karev, T.R. Knight as George O'Malley, Chandra Wilson as Miranda Bailey, James Pickens, Jr. as Richard Webber, Sara Ramirez as Callie Torres, Eric Dane as Mark Sloan, Chyler Leigh as Lexie Grey and Brooke Smith as Erica Hahn.

"Grey's Anatomy" was created and is executive-produced by Shonda Rhimes ("Introducing Dorothy Dandridge"). Betsy Beers ("Casanova"), Mark Gordon ("Saving Private Ryan"), Krista Vernoff ("Law & Order"), Rob Corn ("Chicago Hope") and Mark Wilding ("Jake: 2.0") are executive producers. "Grey's Anatomy" is an ABC Studios production.

"PRIVATE PRACTICE"

Having left behind Seattle Grace Hospital for Los Angeles and a new life full of promise, Addison Montgomery has joined the medical team at Oceanside Wellness Center, where the doctors are dedicated pros; it's their private lives that need a little practice.

"Private Practice" stars Kate Walsh as Dr. Addison Forbes Montgomery, Tim Daly as Dr. Pete Wilder, Audra McDonald as Dr. Naomi Bennett, Paul Adelstein as Dr. Cooper Freedman, KaDee Strickland as Dr. Charlotte King, Chris Lowell as William Dell Parker, with Taye Diggs as Dr. Sam Bennett and Amy Brenneman as Dr. Violet Turner.

"Private Practice" was created and is executive-produced by Shonda Rhimes ("Grey's Anatomy," "Introducing Dorothy Dandridge"). Betsy Beers ("Grey's Anatomy," "Casanova"), Mark Gordon ("The Hoax," "Saving Private Ryan"), Mark Tinker ("St. Elsewhere," "NYPD Blue"), Robert Rovner and Jon Cowan are executive producers. "Private Practice" is an ABC Studios production.

"PUSHING DAISIES"

From Bryan Fuller ("Heroes," "Wonderfalls") and Barry Sonnenfeld ("Men in Black") comes a series with an unprecedented blend of romance, fantasy and mystery, "Pushing Daisies," a forensic fairytale about Ned, a young man with a very special gift. As a young boy Ned discovers that he can return the dead briefly back to life with just one touch. But his random gift isn't without deadly consequences as he soon finds out. In its first season, this critically-acclaimed series received three Golden Globe nominations.

Golden Globe nominee Lee Pace ("The Good Shepherd," "Soldier's Girl"), Golden Globe nominee Anna Friel ( the upcoming "Land of the Lost," "Rogue Trader"), Chi McBride ("The Nine," "Boston Public"), Tony nominee Ellen Greene ("Little Shop of Horrors"), Emmy and Tony winner Swoosie Kurtz ("Huff," "Sisters") and Tony winner Kristin Chenoweth ("The West Wing") star in the visually stunning series from the Jinks/Cohen Company, in association with Warner Bros. Television. Tony winner Jim Dale, reader of the "Harry Potter" series of audio books, is the narrator.

In addition to Fuller and Sonnenfeld, Dan Jinks & Bruce Cohen (Academy Award winning producers of "American Beauty") and Peter Ocko serve as executive producers.

"UGLY BETTY"

In the superficial world of high fashion, image is everything. Styles come and go, and the only constants are the super thin beauties who wear them. How can an ordinary girl from Queens possibly fit in?

If you took a moment to get to know Betty Suarez, you'd see how sweet, intelligent and hard-working she is (if a bit fashion-challenged). When publishing mogul Bradford Meade handed the reigns of Mode, the bible of the fashion industry, over to this son, Daniel, he specifically hired Betty as his son's new assistant mostly because she was the only woman Daniel wouldn't sleep with. Both outsiders in their own way, Daniel and Betty form an unlikely team, each helping the other navigate the choppy waters of NYC's fashion scene.

"Ugly Betty" stars America Ferrera as Betty Suarez, Eric Mabius as Daniel Meade, Tony Plana as Ignacio, Ana Ortiz as Hilda, Ashley Jensen as Christina, Becki Newton as Amanda, Mark Indelicato as Justin, Michael Urie as Marc, Judith Light as Claire Meade, Christopher Gorham as Henry, Rebecca Romijn as Alexis and Vanessa Williams as Wilhelmina Slater. Freddy Rodriguez is a recurring guest star as Gio. Lindsay Lohan will appear in a five-episode arc as Kimberly.

Based on "Yo Soy Betty La Fea," the groundbreaking Colombian telenovela that became an international phenomenon, "Ugly Betty" is from ABC Studios. This past two seasons the series has been awarded three Emmy Awards, two GLAAD Awards, as well as Golden Globe, Peabody, DGA, NAACP, ALMA, CDG and Imagen Awards. Academy Award-nominee and Emmy Award winner Salma Hayek is executive producer, along with Jose Tamez ("The Maldonado Miracle"), Silvio Horta ("Urban Legend") and Joel Fields ("Dirt").

COMEDY

"SAMANTHA WHO?"

What if you had the chance to start over, to do it all again? For Samantha Newly (Christina Applegate), this fantasy becomes a reality after a hit-and-run accident leaves her in an eight-day coma. When she awakens in the hospital, she is surrounded by family and friends. The only problem is that she has no idea who they are or who she is. In medical terms, Sam has retrograde amnesia, which allows her to fully function in the world but leaves her with no personal memories. Most people would deem this disorder a curse. But Sam has come to call it a miracle.

"Samantha Who?" won the People's Choice Award for Favorite New TV Comedy, and Applegate was nominated for a Golden Globe and SAG Award for her role.

"Samantha Who?" stars Christina Applegate as Samantha, Jennifer Esposito as Andrea, Kevin Dunn as Howard, Melissa McCarthy as Dena, Tim Russ as Frank, with Barry Watson as Todd and Jean Smart as Regina.

"Samantha Who?" was created by Cecelia Ahern and Donald Todd. Todd and Peter Traugott serve as executive producers. "Samantha Who?," which is filmed in Los Angeles, is from ABC Studios.

ALTERNATIVE

"AMERICA'S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEOS"

Currently in its 18th season, and the longest-running primetime show in ABC history, "America's Funniest Home Videos" features adults, children, pets and even inanimate objects at their spontaneous best. Tom Bergeron is the host. In its 18 seasons to date, "America's Funniest Home Videos" has given away over $10 million in prize money and evaluated more than half a million videotapes from home viewers.

Vin Di Bona is executive producer, with Todd Thicke and Michele Nasraway serving as co-executive producers. "America's Funniest Home Videos," which premiered on January 14, 1990, is from Vin Di Bona Productions.

"DANCING WITH THE STARS"

Hosted by Tom Bergeron ("America's Funniest Home Videos") and Samantha Harris ("E! Entertainment"), celebrities perform choreographed dance routines which are judged by renowned Ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer/choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba.

"Dancing with the Stars" is the U.S. version of the international smash hit series, "Strictly Come Dancing." ABC's version is produced in America by BBC Productions. Conrad Green serves as executive producer.

"EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION"

Put together one very run-down house, a deserving family, several opinionated designers, seven days and what do you get? The answer is "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition." The show has won two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Reality Program, as well as the People's Choice Award for Favorite Reality Show/Makeover and the Family Television Award for Best Alternative/Reality Program.

Beginning this season, "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" began featuring green elements on every episode with eco-friendly, low energy and recyclable sources being incorporated into the builds. Concluding the show's two-year, 50-state tour will be a two-hour Season Finale on May 18 featuring three homes for a family (all on the same lot) and a church in Louisiana. In a first-ever effort to put together a coalition of past builders from all over the country, the show has called on the Building Industry to join forces and help with what might be the toughest challenge yet. In addition, the popular Australian vocal group, The Ten Tenors, will pay musical tribute to the builders at the church reveal, performing an emotionally charged version of "Here's to the Heroes," the title track to their most recent album.

The design team includes team leader Ty Pennington, with designers Paul DiMeo, Paige Hemmis, Michael Moloney, Ed Sanders, Tracy Hutson, Tanya McQueen, Eduardo Xol, John Littlefield, Rib Hillis and Didiayer. "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. David Goldberg is President of Endemol USA. The new season will be executive-produced by Anthony Dominici. The series premiered December 3, 2003, on the ABC Television Network.

"SUPERNANNY"

Jo Frost criss-crosses America taking on some of its toughest parenting challenges. Hailed by the New York Times as "fascinating" and "required viewing," praised by Oprah Winfrey, David Letterman and Kelly Ripa, acclaimed by such publications as Newsweek, Hollywood Reporter and The New Yorker, and lauded by parents and nannies across America, "Supernanny" is a hit. Jo Frost, as Supernanny, can tame the wildest toddler, soothe the most savage six-year-old and get even the most difficult child to overcome problems with behavior, sleep, mealtime, potty training and other challenges that have vexed parents around the world for centuries. After just three episodes of the show aired in the U.K. in summer 2004, Jo Frost became Britain's hottest new TV star and a godsend to desperate parents who were dazzled by her amazing results with unruly children. She debuted in America in early 2005 and captivated Americans as well with her practical, no-nonsense style, honed over 20 years of nannying. "Supernanny" is now an international phenomenon; it airs in 58 territories, almost all of them with Frost as Supernanny. The series was nominated for a People's Choice Award, and fans loved her first two books, Supernanny: How to Get the Best from Your Children -- a national bestseller -- and Ask Supernanny. Her new book, Jo Frost's Confident Baby Care: What You Need to Know for the First Year from America's Most Trusted Nanny, was published in May 2008.

Nick Powell is the creator and executive producer of both the American and British versions of the show. Nick Emmerson and Holly Wofford are executive producers of the American version. "Supernanny" is produced by Ricochet, Ltd.

"WIFE SWAP"

"Wife Swap," the critically-acclaimed unscripted reality show that takes us into the intimate heart of the American family home, revealing the extraordinarily different ways families live their lives, is currently airing its fourth season.

Each week from across the country, two families with very different values are chosen to take part in a two-week long challenge. The wives from these two families exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover just what it's like to live another woman's life. It's a mind-blowing experiment that often ends up changing their lives forever.

In the first week of the swap, the wives move in with their new family and adopt their very different lifestyle. They agree to follow a manual written by the departing wife that sets out the rules of their new household -- how they parent, shop, do the housework, manage their budgets and their social life. But then, in the second week, everything changes. The new wives take charge. They introduce their own set of rules and get to run the new household their way. It's a radical shock to both families. The results are explosive, enlightening and often very funny. This is a show about the things that really matter to families across America.

NEW MIDSEASON SERIES

COMEDY

"THE GOODE FAMILY"

A new animated series from Mike Judge, creator of "King of the Hill." "The Goode Family" is obsessed with doing the "right" thing, whether it's environmentally, politically or socially. Unfortunately their efforts often have unintended comic consequences.

"The Goode Family" is voiced by Mike Judge as Gerald, Nancy Carell as Helen, Dave Herman as Ubuntu and Abby Elliot as Bliss.

Executive producers for "The Goode Family" are Mike Judge, David Krinsky, John Altschuler, Michael Rotenberg and Tom Lassally. The series is produced by MRC and 3 Arts Entertainment.

"SCRUBS"

"Scrubs" focuses on the strange experiences of Dr. John Dorian, or "J.D.," a medical resident, as he continues on his healing career in a surreal hospital, crammed full of unpredictable staffers and patients -- where humor and tragedy can collide at any time.

"Scrubs" received two consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Comedy Series in 2005 and 2006. In its debut year, "Scrubs" was nominated for two Emmy Awards and a People's Choice Award. It has received a total of 10 Emmy nominations, and in 2005 the series won the Emmy for Outstanding Multi-Camera Picture Editing. In 2004 "Scrubs" was honored with a prestigious Humanitas Prize. Beginning that same year, the series received three consecutive Producers Guild Award nominations from 2004-2006.

"Scrubs" stars Zach Braff as Dr. John "J.D." Dorian, Donald Faison as Chris Turk, Sarah Chalke as Elliot Reid, Judy Reyes as Carla Espinosa, John C. McGinley as Dr. Perry Cox, Ken Jenkins as Dr. Bob Kelso and Neil Flynn as The Janitor.

"Scrubs" executive producer and creator is Bill Lawrence. The series is produced by ABC Studios.

ALTERNATIVE

"UNTITLED ASHTON KUTCHER/TYRA BANKS PROJECT"

A beauty pageant unlike any you've ever seen, from executive producers Ashton Kutcher and Tyra Banks.

OTHER RETURNING SERIES

DRAMA

"LOST"

Awarded the 2005 Emmy and 2006 Golden Globe for Best Drama Series, "Lost's" action-packed mystery and adventure continues to bring out the very best and very worst in the people who are lost.

"Lost" stars Naveen Andrews as Sayid, Henry Ian Cusick as Desmond, Emilie de Ravin as Claire, Michael Emerson as Ben, Matthew Fox as Jack, Jorge Garcia as Hurley, Josh Holloway as Sawyer, Daniel Dae Kim as Jin, Yunjin Kim as Sun, Evangeline Lilly as Kate, Elizabeth Mitchell as Juliet, Terry O'Quinn as Locke and Harold Perrineau as Michael.

"Lost" was created by Jeffrey Lieber and J.J. Abrams & Damon Lindelof. Abrams, Lindelof, Bryan Burk, Jack Bender and Carlton Cuse serve as executive producers. "Lost," which is filmed entirely on location in Hawaii and premiered on September 22, 2004, is from ABC Studios.

COMEDY

"ACCORDING TO JIM"

"According to Jim" returns for its eighth successful season as the macho "Everyman" who adores his family.

Jim (Jim Belushi) has it all: a gorgeous wife, Cheryl (Courtney Thorne-Smith), whom he challenges with his stubborn manliness but contagious charm; three precocious kids, Ruby (Taylor Atelian), Gracie (Billi Bruno) and Kyle (Conner Rayburn); and his brother-in-law, Andy (Larry Joe Campbell), his best friend, business partner and "partner in crime."

"According to Jim" stars Jim Belushi as Jim, Courtney Thorne-Smith as Cheryl, Larry Joe Campbell as Andy, Taylor Atelian as Ruby, Billi Bruno as Gracie and Conner Rayburn as Kyle.

Executive producers are Jim Belushi, Warren Bell, Suzanne Bukinik, Jonathan Stark, Marc Gurvitz, John D. Beck, Ron Hart, John Peaslee and Judd Pillot. "According to Jim" is from ABC Studios.

ALTERNATIVE

"THE BACHELOR"

ABC's "The Bachelor" is the original primetime romance reality series that offers one lucky man and 25 lucky women the unique opportunity to find true love.

The new Bachelor will get to know 25 women via a series of social gatherings and exotic, romantic dates some in groups, some individually. He will introduce some of the women to his family, and will visit their hometowns for a slice of their lives in an effort to determine the woman with whom he is most compatible.

The series follows a gradual process of elimination each week, until the Bachelor ultimately decides on the one woman who has captured his heart. However, at any point along the way, should a woman decide that she is no longer interested in him, she may reject his invitation to continue dating. At the end of the journey, this gentleman will quite possibly have found true love. But the big question is: After all of this, if he pops the question, will she accept?

Hosted by Chris Harrison, "The Bachelor" is a production of Next Entertainment in association with Warner Horizon Television. Mike Fleiss, David Bohnert and Martin Hilton are the executive producers.

ABC NEWS

"PRIMETIME: WHAT WOULD YOU DO?"

Using hidden cameras, "Primetime: What Would You Do?" sets up everyday scenarios and then captures people's reactions. Whether people are compelled to act or mind their own business, John Quiones reports on their split-second and often surprising decision-making process.

People often talk about how they think they would act in a difficult situation, but this series looks at how they actually do in the face of everyday dilemmas that test their character and values. According to the Columbia Journalism Review essay, "Primetime: What Would You Do?" is "the flip side of reality TVrather than show how people act in manufactured situations when they know they're being watched, they show us how people act when they don't."

David Sloan is the executive producer of "Primetime: What Would You Do?." Robert Lange is the senior producer.

Pilot news!

God Bless Nikki Finke and her insider-y knowledge. She's posted some pilot news on her blog today.

If you haven't listened to my radio show (prominently featured in the sidebar over there) I make my own predictions as to what will make it to the schedules, particularly for dramas. I'd say I'm almost right on so far...

We now return to your regularly scheduled program

The Watch List is rather ugly, I know. So, I thought I'd pull out the return dates of shows and publish them here.

Returning shows by Network:

ABC

• Samantha Who? Mon 9:30 PM (returns 4/7)
  
• Desperate Housewives Sun 9 PM (returns 4/13)
  
• Brothers & Sisters Sun 10 PM (returns 4/20)
  
• Ugly Betty Thurs 8 PM (returns 4/24)
  
• Grey's Anatomy Thurs 9 PM (returns 4/24)
  
• Lost Thurs 10 PM (returns 4/24)
  
• Women's Murder Club Tues 10 PM (returns 4/29 moves to Tues)
  
• Boston Legal Wed 10 PM (moves to Wed from Tues new episode 4/30)
  
  

CBS

• Moonlight Fri 9 PM (returns 4/25)
  
• Shark Sun 10 PM (returns 4/29)
  
  

NBC

• 30 Rock Thurs 8:30 PM (returns 4/10)
  
• The Office Thurs 9 PM (returns 4/10)
  
• Law and Order: SVU Tues 10 PM (returns 4/15)
  
  

Fox

• King of the Hill Sun 8:30 PM (returns 4/6)
  
• The Simpsons Sun 8 PM (returns 4/13)
  
• Bones Mon 8 PM (returns 4/14)
  
• Back to You Wed 8 PM (returns 4/16 9:30 PM)
  
• Family Guy Sun 9 PM (returns 4/27)
  
• House Mon 9 PM (returns 4/28)
  
  

The CW

• One Tree Hill Tues 9 PM (returns 4/14)
  
• Smallville Thurs 8 PM (returns 4/17)
  
• Gossip Girl Wed 9 PM (returns 4/21)
  
• Reaper Tues 9 PM (returns 4/22)
  
• Supernatural Thurs 9 PM (returns 4/24)
  
• Aliens In America Sun 8:30 PM (returns 4/27)
  

Stuff I'm thinking about

I haven't posted my own thoughts on things in awhile. A lot of what I do is report TV news and happenings, link to other blogs...but of course, what's a blog's worth if I don't blather on a bit myself? I might as well just have a news aggregator up and running.

So, the TV landscape is a bit of a mess, not that it's a big surprise. We all expected some turmoil coming out of the strike, but current events show there is a great deal of uncertainty out there, both for the networks and the writers.

Let's look at some of the recent events. NBC announces a "52-week" season. First, someone should tell Zucker that sounds silly to anyone not in television (and some of us who are in TV). There are no weeks were there's no TV. TV is already 52 weeks, and I get that he's trying to differentiate between fall season premieres and premieres that can occur all year round. But think about it. When was the last time you saw a network show premiere outside of fall? How about ALL THE TIME. So, this big, daring announcement really amounts to NBC saying "We're tired of pouring money into cool pilots that turn into crappy shows. Now we're just gonna skip the cool pilot step and just make crappy shows." At least, that's what came through on my Zucker-Interpreter Relay (patent pending).

Quarterlife bombed on NBC, big time. Worst ratings in the 10 PM time slot in 17 years. Quite an achievement. Here's the thing. NBC schedules the show for 10 o'clock. It's called *quarterlife*, meaning, 25 year olds. Who is your target audience for this show? I'm telling you, anyone over age 30 -- not interested. The people who are really going to be into this show are young, hence, popularity on the internets. And it's on late. On NBC. Which most young hipsters ARE NOT WATCHING. To me, this boils down to programming error. NBC misread the audience for the show, and didn't give it the timeslot it needed to build an audience. Well, that and I think the show is boring and inconsequential. And I liked "My So-Called Life" and "Once and Again". Bravo will now air this series, but there was a reason ABC didn't pick this up as a pilot ages ago. It sucked.

The new ABC/NBC wrestling match over "Scrubs". Funny how NBC is the focus of the first three items. Pattern, mayhaps? ABC is the instigator on this one. This is personal for Steve McPherson. He developed Scrubs at ABC Studios, loves it to death. He wanted it last season, but couldn't get it. When NBC didn't order the 6 episodes that were left for this season, opting to keep the series to 12, McPherson saw an opportunity. Of course, I think both networks are idiots on this score. Look, I know the show has a lot of fans still, but it's a show no one cares about anymore. ABC picking it up would just be another (very costly) mistake for the network. NBC keeping it just to spite ABC would be ridiculous, liking poking oneself in the eyeball hoping that people won't see *you* as a result. The show should get one or two episodes, promote the heck out of the end of the show (or better, just make it an hour-long finale), book it for end of sweeps and send the show off into the sunset. Instead, the show will probably get renewed one more time, and it will die a slow, painful death with minuscule ratings. I weep for Zach Braff.

Showrunner roulette. Lots of changes everywhere! The Dexter showrunner moves to Dirty Sexy Money! The creators/showrunners for Women's Murder Club -- fired! (Fear not, they'll be writing for Whedon on "Dollhouse"). Moonlight's showrunner -- gone! And worse, Joel Silver will oversee the last three episodes (what the heck does Joel Silver really know about running a tv show??) I don't know if all of these changes were needed or not. Some of them are probably good changes, others...I don't know -- I can't imagine it's spite on the part of the studios/networks. Sure the showrunners stood in solidarity with their writing staffs, but even though they shirked their non-writing duties to walk the line, it seems unlikely that a grudge would be held against them for that. But then, I'm not a studio/network person. I only have a Zucker Intepreter Relay (patent pending), not a Studio/Network Minion Mind Reading Device (blueprints available).

What to make of all this? I wish I knew. I'm personally waiting on the fence -- I reported (finally) that I have a pilot optioned. Now I'm waiting to see when my producer people will enter the fray with said pilot. Things are a bit jumbled at the moment. No one knows when "pilot season" will start again, or if it really will be a "52-week" season (thanks Zucker!)

Here's what I do know. TV will continue on. The networks may not be able to pull 15 to 20 shares on its shows these days (unless you are Idol or Deal or No Deal) but that doesn't mean they won't continue to try to find shows that can pull that kind of audience. So, we, as aspiring writers, soldier on, work on our specs, our pilots, our dreams.

I really loathe the word "Change" right now (overused by just about everyone). Things are constantly changing -- it's a matter of when you sit up and take notice that things aren't the same. Changes are happening in this industry. It's important to be on top of them, embrace them, meet them head on. Don't be afraid to try different things. Clearly the marketplace is wide open.

Let's see what we can do with it.

'Scrubs' moving to ABC

Wow. Big story. ABC needs comedies BADLY!

Linkn: Scrubs moving to ABC

UPDATE: Apparently, NBC isn't too happy about this possible move and are fighting back. I love a good tussle! And as Shawn says, weird that it is over a show on its last legs...

More post-strike scuttlebutt

2/13 Lots of Updates!

Here are the tidbits being posted around the web on various sites and in notes I've gotten from people 'in the know':

CBS:

* UPDATE: Shark is going back into production for four episodes, return date TBD. "The Unit" is still on hiatus.

* Cane is also a bubble show -- no requests for episodes from them, but pickup is still a possibility.

* The New Adventures of Old Christine and Rules of Engagement - also unknown if they will be picked up for next season -- bubble. UPDATE: Rules of Engagement will produce 6 more episodes for this season, return date is April 14.

* Moonlight might get 4 new episodes this spring,and will return to the schedule on April 11.

* Swingtown will go back into production. Air date is TBD.

* How I Met Your Mother, The Big Bang Theory and Two and a Half Men each get 9 new episodes. All will return on March 17.

Other CBS shows, episodes ordered and return to air date:

"CSI: Miami," March 24, 8 episodes

"Cold Case," March 30, 5 episodes

"Criminal Minds," April 2, 7 episodes

"CSI: NY," April 2, 7 episodes

"CSI," April 3, 6 episodes

"Without a Trace," April 3, 6 episodes

"Ghost Whisperer," April 4, 6 episodes

"Numb3rs," April 4, 6 episodes

"NCIS," April 8, 7 episodes


Fox:

* Word is that Prison Break won't shoot more episodes.

* Also rumor that 24 might get pushed to January 2009!! UPDATE: Still hearing this.

* House will push out 5 or 6 more episodes, and Fox isn't afraid to extend their spring season a bit to accommodate past May sweeps.

* Back to You and 'Til Death are expected to go back into production for a few more episodes this season.

NBC:

* Chuck and Heroes will likely not produce any more episodes this season, but will return in the fall. No word on whether additional episodes will be tacked on to next season (this may happen to some shows being cut short this season).

* The Office and 30 Rock are expected to resume production.

ABC:

* Lost will probably only eke out another 6 episodes or so. There were supposed to be 16 for the shortened seasons, so a few episodes may get added to the next two seasons, making them 17 or 18 episode seasons to accommodate the story-telling (still speculative)

* Boston Legal is expected to resume production, and may be quickest back to air with new episodes, as apparently David Kelley works really fast cranking out scripts (hat tip: Hollywood Reporter for several of these items)

* Women's Murder Club is really on the bubble. Three executive producers were let go from the show yesterday. Big Shots looks really dead.

The CW:

* Gossip Girl has already been picked up for next season. No word yet on production schedule (though probably won't have new episodes until fall).

* Girlfriends was aired its last original episode, but no more are expected to be produced since this was the show's final season. There is talk of a final episode -- possibly a clip show -- to give the show a proper send off (will add this cancellation to watch list).

* Aliens in America had already shot 18 episodes, likely won't get more produced for spring. Everybody Hates Chris produced their 22-episode order, and both series still have fresh episodes to be aired. The Game is expected to go back into production for a few episodes.

* Smallville, Supernatural, Reaper and One Tree Hill are expected to go back into production. No word on how many episodes will be produced.

Will update rumors/confirm news as it happens.

ABC starts to pick up some stuff

Woohoo! Real newsy news to talk about! So, ABC came out of the gate letting us all in on which shows they'd be renewing for next season (read: pushing off too much production until fall)

Hollywood Reporter published the following:

The list include juggernauts "Desperate Housewives," "Grey's Anatomy" and "Lost" (which is in the first year of a three-season pickup), sophomore series "Brothers & Sisters" and "Ugly Betty" as well as freshmen "Private Practice" "Pushing Daisies," "Samantha Who?" and "Dirty Sexy Money."

The returning series all have been picked up for a full season.

Meanwhile, the four first-year shows, which all had already been picked up for the back nine, have received 13-episode orders. It is expected that, with the possible exception of "Samantha Who?," they won't air any new episodes this season, with extra produced segments added to their run in the fall.

So, what's missing? "Boston Legal", "Men in Trees", "October Road", "Carpoolers", "Cavemen" and "According to Jim", for starters. "Big Shots" looks to be dead at this point. I think it is still too soon to write off "Women's Murder Club" or "Cashmere Mafia".

I can update the watch list again! What a great day! :-D

I feel a great disturbance in the Force...

According to Jane, Disney has already been interviewing people for the Fellowship next year. I had been under the impression that the interviews were on hold, but apparently no. This is three strikes and out for my "Medium" spec.

On to the next one...

From my visit to the line today

A few photos from the main Disney gate. There was a show of force of major showrunners in the TV biz with press. At least 100 to 140 people (second number including press) at the main gate today.

Joss Whedon.

EVENING UPDATE: Looked through my photos again, and found one that caught Joss's sign in the corner!





Showrunners wore hats (United Showrunners) and carried signs with the name of their show. I'm sure that was to help the poor press.




One of the best signs today -- Carlton Cuse, showrunner for LOST. "Do you want to know what the island is??" (Damon Lindelof is on the left, Cuse is on the right)


Hey, Sonny this one's for you! (Clarification: Josh Schwartz, creator of THE O.C., CHUCK and GOSSIP GIRL)


Writers at the gate.

ETA: Hi Whedonesque and Fuselage visitors! Sorry I didn't have more pictures of our fave genre heroes. I'll try to get more in the future.

Some additional comments: I would have loved to talk to Joss or Cuse/Lindelof or Josh Schwartz, but press was swarming all over these guys. I'd say the event was a success to put faces to shows. The signs were a great idea to not only identify a showrunner and their show, but also to really drive home how many shows were impacted. You can see a few in this picture, but believe me when I tell you there were at least 40 shows represented (I didn't do a full count) at this gate today.

4:30 PM UPDATE -- This video hit Youtube. It's Damon Lindelof and Marc Cherry at the Disney lot today talking about why they are striking.

Quick notes on the fall season

ABC has ordered 3 additional scripts for "Women's Murder Club". This now leaves "Cavemen" as the only new show on ABC without an additional script order. Story Link: Hollywood Reporter.

NBC is cancelling the "Heroes" spin-off "Origins". They are blaming the strike. I blame the low ratings and general suckitude of "Heroes" this year.

The X-Files movie sequel is a GO!! July 25 is set for the release date. Clearly the script is done and they are going to start shooting soon to make that date.

Tonight the writers will meet in a general meeting, and we'll know what the story is for when the strike will be declared. Considering there was hardly any news throughout the day today, I'd say the negotiations haven't gone horrible or well. This could mean waiting it out until Monday to call the strike, but who knows...

ABC gives Samantha Who? full season order

Ratings for the sitcom have been surprisingly strong, holding a significant portion of the "Dancing with the Stars" audience. In about a month, when "Dancing" goes down to one hour, it will be paired up with returning series "Notes from the Underbelly".

"Carpoolers" was given an order for 3 more scripts last week. No such order for "Cavemen".

Watch List has been updated today.

Pushing Daisies gets a full season order

Rumblings on some TV discussion boards I frequent, have been lamenting that in the age of DVR/TiVO, it appears that 10 million viewers is the new benchmark for a "hit" show (it used to be 15 million a few years ago...20 million about 6 or 7 years ago).

As a result, "Pushing Daisies" gets a full season order from ABC.

On a related weird note, ABC has ordered three more scripts of "Carpoolers". Are they serious??

Private Practice, Big Bang Theory, The Unit get picked up

Reported in the trades, ABC gives "Private Practice" a back nine order.

CBS picks up "The Big Bang Theory" for a full season, as well as recommits to a full season for "The Unit". CBS had only renewed "The Unit" for 13 episodes this season, but the ratings have been good for the show, proving it deserved its renewal.

Irrational Anxiety

So far, I've had no luck with any of the contests I've entered specs in this year. Austin -- didn't even make it to the second round. Expo -- no dice. Scriptapalooza -- QF one script. PAGE -- nada.

It makes me incredibly nervous about ABC and WB, the two I really want to do well with (obviously). It's starting to make me wonder where I've gone wrong with these specs.

Yeah, yeah, I know. It's subjective. My scripts could be so brilliant they are blinding the readers to their brilliance. Or, maybe I'm just missing something...

Keeping my fingers crossed for the big 2 "contests" left...

How the new series fare so far...

(For Nielsen coverage in full, check out Mark Berman's Programming Insider column daily.)

New Show Debut Ratings from last week:

Private Practice (ABC) – Wed. 9 p.m.
Viewers: 14.41 million (#13), A18-49: 5.2/13 (#10)

Bionic Woman (NBC) – Wed. 9 p.m.
Viewers: 13.91 million (#16), A18-49: 5.7/14 (#8)

Big Shots (ABC) – Thurs. 10 p.m.
Viewers: 11.10 million (#29), A18-49: 4.5/12 (#20t)

Dirty Sexy Money (ABC) – Wed. 10 p.m.
Viewers: 10.44 million (#31), A18-49: 3.6/10 (#32t)

Life (NBC) – Wed. 10 p.m.
Viewers: 9.95 million (#34), A18-49: 4.0/11 (#27)

The Big Bang Theory (CBS) – Mon. 8:30 p.m.
Viewers: 9.52 million (#37), A18-49: 3.7. 9 (#30t)

Chuck (NBC) – Mon. 8 p.m.
Viewers: 9.21 million (#42), A18-49: 3.6/ 9 (#32t)

Journeyman (NBC) – Mon. 10 p.m.
Viewers: 9.16 million (#43), A18-49: 3.5/ 9 (#35t)

Moonlight (CBS) – Fri. 9 p.m.
Viewers: 8.54 million (#47), A18-49: 2.5/ 8 (#55t)

Reaper (CW) – Tues. 9 p.m.
Viewers: 3.28 million (#85), A18-49: 1.5/ 4 (#76t)

So far this week, "The Big Bang Theory" held most of its audience from last week, and "Chuck", "Journeyman" and "Reaper" have on par numbers. "Cane" last night had better ratinigs than "Smith" in the time period a year ago. I say it will hold on for a few weeks. So far this bunch of shows look relatively stable.

"Cavemen" and "Carpoolers" last night bowed to unspectacular numbers. Both shows managed a 6.5/10 and a 6.3/10 in the fast nationals. This will probably put them in the top 50 shows of the week, but I don't expect those ratings to hold next week. Both shows were painful to watch.

There are articles all over the web detailing how increased DVR usage impacts the ratings this year. Nielsen has not yet published the live +3 and live +7 day ratings which include the DVR usage. Last year, DVR penetration was at about 8.5%. This year it is estimated to be more than double that, to 19%. 19% of households is roughly equal to 22 million households. That is a significant amount for the ratings picture and could catapult some shows from decent numbers to hit status once the DVR viewership is factored in.

Of course, the advertisers aren't so sure that people using DVRs are seeing their ads (probably not) so they are probably going to take the live +3, live +7 ratings with a grain of salt...

ABC in love with "Cupid" again?

In what may be the strangest resurrection story of the week, ABC has given the greenlight to Rob Thomas ("Veronica Mars") to recreate his show from eight years ago. "Cupid" ran 13 episodes in 1998-99 and put Thomas on the map. It starred Jeremy Piven and developed a cult following over the years.

It's not uncommon for networks to revisit shows which worked and try to revamp them ("Bionic Woman"?) but to take a show that was cancelled so early in its run and try to recreate that? With the same showrunner? This is practically unheard of.

I certainly hope Thomas can find a way to make the show work the second time around. I enjoyed "Cupid" during its original run. Piven won't be back since he's moved on to playing Ari Gold.

Weird. Interesting. Exciting.

Link: Variety.com.

The 2006-07 Watch List

Updated 09/07.

Cancelled (new) shows:

• Blade: The Series (Spike)
  
• Smith (CBS)
  
• Runaway (CW)
  
• 20 Good Years (NBC)
  
• Waterfront (CBS) (midseason, never aired)
  
• Kidnapped (NBC)
  
• Happy Hour (Fox)
  
• Vanished (Fox)
  
• 3 Lbs (CBS)
  
• Help Me Help You (ABC)
  
• Justice (Fox)
  
• Daybreak (ABC)
  
• The Wedding Bells (Fox)
  
• The Black Donnellys (NBC)
  
• 6 Degrees (ABC)
  
• In Case of Emergency (ABC)
  
• Andy Barker, P.I. (NBC)
  
• The Nine (ABC)
  
• Big Day (ABC)
  
• Raines (NBC)
  
• Drive (Fox)
  
• Standoff (Fox)
  
• Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (NBC)
  
• The Knights of Prosperity (ABC)
  
• The Class (CBS)
  
• The Winner (FOX)
  
• Creature Comforts (CBS)
  
• Traveler (ABC)
  
• Hidden Palms (CW)
  
• John From Cincinatti (HBO)
  
• Painkiller Jane (SciFi)
  
• Heartland (TNT)
  

Shows likely to be axed:

None at this time.

Ordered full season:

None at this time.

Likely pickups:

None at this time.

New shows on the air, no decision:

NETWORK:

• The Singles Table (NBC) (will it ever air??)
  
  

CABLE:

• Monarch Cove (Lifetime)
  
• The Dresden Files (SciFi)
  
• Tyler Perry's House of Payne (TBS)
  
• Meadowlands (Showtime)
  
• Damages (FX)
  
• Greek (ABC Family)
  
• Side Order of Life (Lifetime) (resumes airing in Sept)
  
• State of Mind (Lifetime) (resumes airing in Sept)
  
• Mad Men (AMC)
  
• Flash Gordon (SciFi)
  
  

Renewed for another season:

• Eureka (SciFi)
  
• Psych (USA)
  
• 10 Items or Less (TBS) (summer 07)
  
• My Boys (TBS) (gets 3rd season for summer 08)
  
• Lincoln Heights (ABC Family) (summer 07)
  
• Doctor Who (SciFi)
  
• Dexter (Showtime)
  
• The Wire (HBO) (last season)
  
• The Office (NBC)
  
• My Name is Earl (NBC)
  
• Heroes (NBC)
  
• Law & Order: SVU (NBC)
  
• Everybody Hates Chris (CW)
  
• Battlestar Galactica (SciFi)
  
• House (Fox)
  
• Bones (Fox)
  
• Prison Break (Fox)
  
• The Simpsons (Fox)
  
• American Dad (Fox)
  
• Family Guy (Fox)
  
• Las Vegas (NBC)
  
• Nip/Tuck (FX)
  
• Grey's Anatomy (ABC)
  
• Boston Legal (ABC)
  
• Men in Trees (ABC)
  
• Brothers & Sisters (ABC)
  
• Ugly Betty (ABC)
  
• Desperate Housewives (ABC)
  
• Lost (ABC)
  
• 30 Rock (NBC)
  
• The Tudors (Showtime)
  
• The Riches (FX)
  
• Dirt (FX)
  
• Medium (NBC)
  
• Blood Ties (Lifetime)
  
• Friday Night Lights (NBC)
  
• Til Death (Fox)
  
• October Road (ABC) (13 episode order)
  
• Notes from the Underbelly (ABC) (13 episode order)
  
• Law and Order (NBC)
  
• Law and Order: Criminal Intent (NBC) (Will go to USA next season)
  
• Shark (CBS)
  
• The Unit (CBS)
  
• How I Met Your Mother (CBS)
  
• The New Adventures of Old Christine (CBS)
  
• Ghost Whisperer (CBS)
  
• Criminal Minds (CBS)
  
• CSI (CBS)
  
• CSI: NY (CBS)
  
• CSI: Miami (CBS)
  
• Cold Case (CBS)
  
• NCIS (CBS)
  
• Without a Trace (CBS)
  
• Numb3rs (CBS)
  
• Two and a Half Men (CBS)
  
• One Tree Hill (CW)
  
• Supernatural (CW)
  
• Smallville (CW)
  
• The Game (CW)
  
• Girlfriends (CW)
  
• Rules of Engagement (CBS)
  
• Jericho (CBS)
  
• According to Jim (ABC)
  
• Robin Hood (BBC America)
  
• Burn Notice (USA)
  
• Saving Grace (TNT)
  
• Flight of the Conchords (HBO)
  
• Army Wives (Lifetime)
  
• The Bill Engvall Show (TBS)
  
• Californication (Showtime)
  
  

Veteran shows death watch:

• The O.C. (Fox) (cancelled)
  
• Stargate: SG-1 (SciFi) (cancelled)
  
• King of Queens (CBS) (cancelled)
  
• Reba (CW) (cancelled)
  
• 7th Heaven (CW) (cancelled)
  
• Gilmore Girls (CW) (cancelled)
  
• The George Lopez Show (ABC) (cancelled)
  
• What About Brian (ABC) (cancelled)
  
• Crossing Jordan (NBC) (cancelled)
  
• The War at Home (Fox) (cancelled)
  
• Veronica Mars (CW) (cancelled)
  
• All of Us (CW) (cancelled)
  
• Close to Home (CBS) (cancelled)
  
• The Loop (Fox) (cancelled)
  
  

A brief explanation of the watch list:

Cancelled (new) shows - these are CONFIRMED freshman cancelled shows (or as close as we can get to confirmation).

Shows likely to be axed - their numbers aren't good, news stories point to it being yanked, it may soon end up in the cancelled category.

Ordered full season - this doesn't mean it is renewed for next year, just that the series has gotten a full season order. (e.g., 'back nine' pickup).

Likely pickups - the numbers are good, all we need is the confirmation from the network (again, this is for full season orders, not renewals).

New shows on the air, no decision - consider this the neutral zone, detailing the premiere dates for new shows and tidbits of info which could forecast a move to another category.

Renewed - Will be back next season.

Veteran show death watch - they've been on the air and their time may be coming. We watch and wait...