90210 casts new male eye candy

We already knew that the 90210 character Ethan was not returning for the show's sophomore season, but now we have a face to match with the new Teddy character. Here is the full story and it includes a picture of actor Trevor Donovan. The story calls him Ethan's replacement, but in reality he is just another leading man to add to the cast list.

Apparently, the CW likes to recycle its stars

According to this story, JoAnna Garcia, former Privileged star, will make a guest appearance on Gossip Girl at the beginning of the fall season. She will be on the show for four episodes and will play Nate's love interest. Though I never really got into Privileged, the few times I did watch with my roommates I enjoyed Garcia's performance. I think she will be interesting on GG. This sounds like good news.

SVU to return - with its stars

After months of worrying about whether or not Mariska Hargitay and Chris Meloni were going to return to Law & Order: SVU, fans can now rest easy. Here is the full story, but it looks like the two stars have agreed to a deal and will continue to star on the show during its upcoming 11th season.

Guess who?

For those who enjoy Dancing with the Stars for not only the dancing but also the costumes, here is a quiz just for you. It is from TvGuide.com and asks if you can identify who wore some of the best costumes of the season. I got them all right. Can you?

MJ and Farrah television tributes

The Globe's Joanna Weiss kindly put together this list of television tributes to the lives of both Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson.

Spoiler: SYTYCD - Two more down, 13 to go before a champ is crowned

This week's group dance was amazing. It was one of the best in a very long time. Choreographed by Dimitri and Tabitha and Napoleon, it was a mix between salsa and hip hop. It was so sexy and sensual, yet exciting and upbeat at the same time. Words cannot even really describe how great the performance was. I am going to try to find it on YouTube to post so that those who did not see it can. I promise you, it is worth watching.

Following the group dance Nigel gave a tribute to the three stars - Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson - who died during the last few days. While it was all very heartwarming, the words he had to say about MJ in particular moved me. Michael Jackson really was the king of pop and his dancing changed the world forever. As Nigel pointed out, without MJ shows like SYTYCD may not be possible.

Now onto the bottom three, and it was just as I guessed: Asuka & Vitolio, Karla & Jonathan and Caitlin & Jason. They have all been in the bottom three before and I was not surprised that they found themselves in that position again.

Here is a rundown of my opinion on their solos: I think Asuka did some basic ballroom moves again and again with little surprises, which lead to an overall boring performance; I always think Vitolio is so powerful, but this week it seemed like he was just jumping around; Karla's dance was very funky and not just your average contemporary solo, which was interesting; Jonathan's music was awful and had no real rhythm, which made his performance seem boring; Caitlin performed a usual contemporary routine and danced rather gracefully; and, as always, Jason grabbed my attention and really performed his heart out.

When the judges came back to announce their decision we found out that they voted unanimously to send Asuka home because they do not believe she is growing as a dancer and in a 2-1 decision Jonathan was sent home over Vitolio though Nigel said neither is really strong enough at this point in the competition. This means that next week the new couple of Karla and Vitolio will perform and, to say the least, it will be interesting.

So what did you think of tonight's episode? Were you also moved by Nigel's kind words about Michael Jackson? Do you agree that the group dance was outstanding? Do you agree with who was sent home? Leave your thoughts here.

Who should be in the bottom three?

After rewatching last night's SYTYCD episode, I have formed an opinion on who I think should be in the bottom tonight. My bottom three is Caitlin & Jason, Karla & Jonathan and Asuka & Vitolio. From there I'm not sure who I would save or send home but I do think Jonathan has yet to impress and I am consistently annoyed with Asuka. Thoughts?

Spoiler: The Philanthropist - "Happiness is the art of living well"

NBC aired the premiere of a new drama tonight and it was exactly what I expected. Without any element of surprise, The Philanthropist is not something I wish to continue to watch. But, before I give up for good, here is a quick synopsis of the show for those who are interested.

Teddy Rist is a billionaire. While in Africa trying to complete a business deal for his company, there is a hurricane and he saves a little boy's life. In a voiceover Teddy says the boy also saved him. (How cliche.) From that moment, Teddy's life is supposedly changed.

As a side note, one that becomes important later, we find out that Teddy is divorced and that his young son died a year ago. I'm sure more details about this will emerge as the season goes on.

Once back in America and back to his usual work, Teddy realizes it is no longer enough for him. He decides he needs to do more and give back more so he returns to Africa bringing medical supplies, food, etcetera. Teddy is under the impression that he will be able to just walk into the country and help people. Also while there he wants to find the little boy who he saved, who he knows is a begger.

Teddy no longer wants to live his sheltered life, but once in Africa things do not happen as easily as he hoped. Some of the people there do not want his money and other see right through him, which lead to them not taking him seriously. All he wants to do is help, which is honest enough, but there money does not necessarily buy him everything he wants or needs. But regardless, he gets done what needs to be done; he breaks down all the barriers in his way. (I guess there would be no show without this, but it looks too easy.)

At one point he is walking through the jungle barefoot and without a phone after getting shot at, and is bitten by a snake. He is then delirious, but sees his son, who leads him to where he was trying to get. They fix him up and he even finds the little boy he was searching for (oh, what a coincidence).

Once back home he tells his coworkers that he will return his focus to the business and leave the philanthropy to others. But, if that were true, then there would be no show.

Did anyone else watch? Did you enjoy it? I think I'm giving up, but I would love to hear what you think makes it special if you liked it, so leave it here.

Spoiler: SYTYCD - And there is a butt

Here is a rundown of tonight's routines. And, for the record, I again did not love all that many of them.

1) Karla and Jonathan danced a hip hop routine choreographed by Dave Scott
For this smooth hip hop routine the two dancers needed to find their inner gangsta. Personally, I did not think it was funky enough. I also thought Karla was much better than Jonathan. As for the judges, I thought Nigel was being awfully mean to them. He got better as the show went on, but I don't think they deserved the harsh comments he had for them.
2) Asuka and Vitolio danced a jazz routine choreographed by Mandy Moore
For this routine, Mandy asked the pair to be rockers and they did not follow through. They were not together at times and it threw off the flow of the routine. Also, they were not as hard hitting as they should have been.
3) Melissa and Ade danced a rumba choreographed by Tony
This routine was supposed to be sensual and man did they follow through. Melissa was so sexy. The focus, throughout the dance, was on her and she deserved it. But Ade also played his part and was there for her when she needed him. It was a great rumba.
4) Janette and Brandon danced a hip hop routine choreographed by Dave
Dave's goal with this number was to fuse hip hop with rock and the dancers took this goal to heart. I was impressed. They both played their roles really well. I also really enjoyed the choreography.
5) Kayla and Kupono (the new couple) danced a waltz choreographed by Jean Marc
This dance was supposed to be like a dream and it was, but only because Kayla looked like an angel. She looked so elegant and faked the moves really well. On the other hand, some of Kupono's transitions were choppy. While I thought it was only OK, Mary loved it. She even did the unexpected and put the pair on the hot tamale train, something she never does for slower dances.
6) Randi and Evan danced a contemporary routine choreographed by Mia
For this dance, Randi's butt was the centerpiece and man was it weird. This was a very simple routine with simple choreography, but the dancers were given a story and told to play a part, which they did. Successfully, I should add. But one thing that bothered me, Evan's costume made him look even shorter than he is, which, at times, cut his movements short. I also want to point out that I agree with Nigel - people are going to remember this "butt dance" and it is something people will vote for.
7) Caitlin and Jason danced a paso double choreographed by Jean Marc
I thought this routine was awful. I thought the costumes were distracting, the dancing was choppy, Caitlin wasn't finishing her movements, etcetera. But, for some reason, the judges liked it. I thought it was too acrobatic for a paso and it also wasn't forceful enough for me.
8) Janine and Phillip danced a broadway routine choreographed by Tyce
This week, Janine and Phillip needed to redeem themselves. And while I think the routine was good, I don't think it deserves too much praise. For one thing, Janine totally outdanced Phillip. Phillip is really bad with the partnering and lifting aspect of dance, which hinders him. It was an overall fun routine, but I was glad that Nigel asked Phillip to be better and work harder so that he is deserving of all of the votes we all know he will get.

So what did you think? Any surprises tonight? Which dance was your favorite and who is your favorite couple? Who would you send home?

Just when I was starting to love him....

Sad SYTYCD news: According to Adam Shankman's twitter, he will not make another appearance on the show this season until the finale. Here is exactly what he posted: adammshankman Hey all. Working on movies... Im not back again til Finale. Sad

I know that a lot of people had started respecting his opinion and I was awaiting his choreography, but it looks like we will have to wait until the finale or maybe even next season. This just means that the other judges/choreographers have to step up their game. I hope someone else takes over as my favorite guest panelist.

If the saying, we all have special talents, is true, then shouldn't we all be on the show?

America's Got Talent premieres tonight on NBC with new host Nick Cannon. While I think Nick will be a bit of fresh air to a summer show that needs a boost, I don't think he is enough to make me want to watch. I have never followed the show faithfully, but have watched occasionally in the past when there was nothing else on television. While I do commit every summer to So You Think You Can Dance, I have never seen the appeal of America's Got Talent. Am I missing out? Does anyone think I should give it more of a chance? Feel free to answer these questions and also, following the first episode airing tonight, leave me comments about what I missed.

The show may be dead, but does that mean the characters die too?

The Globe's Matthew Gilbert put together this very interesting slideshow highlighting a few of his favorite characters from some of this year's canceled shows. He says he accepts that the shows are gone, but that he wishes some of the more lovable characters could stay.

From all the season’s canceled network comedies and dramas, are there characters we wanted to know better? Are there ones we can never get enough of? Here’s a proposal to renew a few characters and give them a second chance.

Here is a link to the slideshow. And it brings up an interesting point: If you could save any character from any show who would you save? For me I think it would be Lorelai Gilmore from Gilmore Girls. I know the show had to end, but Lorelai was the most wonderful character. I would love to see her again. So, do you have any favorites you would like to see return? I'd love to know.

I guess it is about time I mentioned it...

I have stayed away from the Jon & Kate Plus 8 drama thus far, but following last night's "big announcement" that the couple is divorcing, I feel the need to post about it. Here is an Associated Press story about the separation. As for what is happening, I have never watched the show, but that doesn't mean I do not know about it. Everywhere you look, from the Today show to Us Magazine, there are stories about the couple. I just find it very interesting that people are so caught up in these people's lives. Last night, following the show and the big announcement, almost every one of my Facebook friends who had recently updated their statuses had written something about poor Jon and Kate. I found it mind blowing. Why do people care? Have you been following the show? What appeals to you?

A television show about gymnasts? Does anyone care?

While I admit that one of my favorite movies is Stick It, starring Jeff Bridges and Missy Peregrym, about a misunderstood girl forced to return to a life of gymnastics after disappointing her teammates, the idea of a television show based in a gymnasium where the girls train for the Olympics does not seem appealing. So now that the ABC Family show Make It or Break It has aired its premiere, I would love to hear from anyone who watched it tonight. Is it entertaining? Will you continue watching? What makes it worth while? Should I try watching? Let me know.

Footloose remake news

While this is a bit more movie news than TV news, those who watch the shows I watch will care. Dancing with the Stars pro Julianne Hough has been offered the lead in the Kenny Ortega Footloose remake. She will star alongside Gossip Girl hunk Chace Crawford. Here is the full story. While I do not see the need to remake this movie, I do think they will do it justice. I think this is a great pairing. Do you agree?

Television show marathons - love them or hate them?

This is a topic I have been meaning to write about for a while. I have opinions on television show marathons, and I will share them in a moment, but I would also like to hear your thoughts on the topic. I'll pose some questions at the end, but for now, let's start at the beginning.

I am a sucker for show marathons, but only if it is a show I watch and enjoy. I see it as there being two types of marathons: People watch marathons to catch up on a show they have not watched in a while or to experience a show they have never watched or people get sucked into a marathon because there is no background needed and they can get interested in the show easily. For example, I love the show What I Like About You starring Amanda Bynes and Jennie Garth. Recently, on the Nikelodeon station The N they have been airing marathons of this show. I have not seen every episode but I do know the premise so these marathons are a chance for me to experience this very funny show. And as an example of the other type there is MTV. Prior to the finales of their shows, MTV will often air the entire season of the show in marathon fashion before the premiere of the finale. I remember, very distinctly, a day freshman year when I should have been studying for finals but instead sat in my friend's room and watched hours of back to back episodes of the Road Rules/Real World Challenge. It was just too difficult to walk away.

And that brings me to my next point. There are also two types of people in this show marathon scenario: the people who can watch one episode and then change the channel and those who see that there is a marathon on and have to watch the show for hours. I fall into the second category. I get sucked in. I will ignore everything else I have to do and lose myself in a marathon. And I have to admit I love it.

So here is where you come in. What are your feelings on television show marathons? Today ABC Family aired hours of The Secret Life of the American Teen leading up to the third season's premiere. Did anyone watch? I seriously considered using this as an opportunity to experience what everyone seems to be talking about but decided against committing to another teen drama. But I know that if I had watched one episode, I would have watched them all.

As a guilty pleasure, which show would you like to watch for hours at a time? And do you love or hate marathons? I'd love to hear from you.

In honor of Father's Day...

Here is a slideshow of some memorable TV fathers brought to you by the Boston Globe's Matthew Gilbert. Enjoy!

Spoiler: SYTYCD Week 2 results

Tonight's episode of So You Think You Can Dance started with a group performance choreographed by Mia Michaels. I thought the dance was very Thriller meets Stevie Wonder. The dancers looked like they were moving like animals. I don't think the song Higher Ground was appropriate for that choreography, but it was still an enjoyable dance and showed off the dancers' skill. As always, Mia proved how weird she is by choreographing a weird routine.

At the top of the show they played a prepared package making fun of Lil C's vocabulary from last night. So I guess I was not the only person who noticed he was being a bit over the top in his descriptions. And, as a side note, Cat looked gorgeous in that white suit. That is my favorite outfit of hers so far this season. Also, I love that they showed Evan's brother Ryan's audition for the fall season. And, no surprise, he was sent through to Vegas. I really hope he makes it to the top 20 next season. He deserves it.

Before I get into discussion about who was in the bottom three, I want to point out something. So far this season I do not think there are any couples who stand out. Yes, there are a few dancers who I would call front runners (Evan, Kayla, Phillip, etc.), but as pairs, there are no Katie and Joshua or Courtney and Gev like last season. I guess that means there is still room for the couples to impress me.

No more delay. This week the bottom three couples, based on fan votes from last night, were Caitlin and Jason; Ashley and Kupono; and Kayla and Max. This is a completely different bottom three than last week, which goes to show that this is anyone's game. Also, I was shocked that Kayla and Max found themselves in the bottom three. I thought Kayla was great enough to carry them as a pair, but I guess not. At that point in the episode, without seeing their solos, I would have guessed Ashley and Kupono were being sent home.

Here is a rundown of my opinion on their solos: I think Caitlin would have been better off with a fast dance since she is too smiley and upbeat for a lyrical performance; I think Jason is so technically strong he can do no wrong in his own style; Ashley wasted a lot of time and did little during her 30 seconds; Kupono didn't show off his strengths and just posed; Kayla came out and attacked it; and Max did a really great job, especially since he was alone and it was a ballroom routine.

Next came the musical guest. This week was Kristinia DeBarge who sings the new song Goodbye. While the performance was OK and the dancing was good, she was so obviously lip syncing that it was distracting.

When the judges came back with their decision they said they were not unanimous with either the girls or boys. Nigel said that if it were up to them they wouldn't have lost any of the six who were in the bottom. Regardless, someone had to be sent home. For the girls it was Ashley, which I didn't find a surprise. For the boys it was Max, which makes me really sad. I don't think he should have even been in the bottom. That means next week there will be a new pairing with Kayla and Kupono.

So what did you think of the results show? Do you agree with who was sent home? What would you have done differently?

Why am I not surprised?

While we all know that the Hills is semi-scripted, Lauren Conrad confirmed something interesting today. While we were shown Spencer calling Lauren and apologizing for releasing a sex tape of her, in reality Spencer was talking to dead air. Apparently, Spencer never made this phone call and has still not apologized, but that doesn't mean Lauren is losing any sleep over it. Here is the full story. When the scene aired I thought it was weird he was apologizing in the first place. I am in no way surprised by this, are you?

Grey's casting news

Though there is still no word on whether Katherine Heigl will return next season, we do now know that T.R. Knight is out and Jessica Capshaw is in. TvGuide.com has the full story here. What are your thoughts? Will the show be the same without George? Do you think the show will succeed if they lose Izzie too? Are you happy Arizona is here to stay? Let me know. UPDATE: According to recent articles, including this one, Heigl isn't going anywhere. I'm a bit shocked. I thought for sure she was out. It will be interesting to see how they write in her recovery.

Spoiler: Underwhelmed by the top 18 performances

I have to admit, I don't think tonight's performance episode of So You Think You Can Dance was nearly as good as last week's. Last week I was impressed with every performance. This week, few were memorable. Nonetheless, here is a rundown.

1) Randi and Evan; danced the jive choreographed by Louis
As Louis said in the package before they danced, the jive is so much about performance and FUN! That said, I thought these two were going to kill it mostly because both are so energetic and have great personalities. It was a very high energy performance with tons of kicking, turning and moving around. While the judges did not seem too impressed, I enjoyed it. I thought it was a great start to the evening.
2) Melissa and Ade; danced jazz choreographed by Sonya
This was a very physical performance. Ade threw Melissa around consistently. I usually love Sonya's choreography, but this one was nothing special for me. During the performance, I thought they lacked emotion as a couple. I didn't love it.
3) Caitlin and Jason; danced hip hop choreographed by Shane
I thought the performance was good, but the dancing was only OK. They were not hitting hard enough, especially Caitlin (though her solo was pretty good). Overall, I thought it flowed too much for a hip hop routine.
4) Janette and Brandon; danced a disco routine choreographed by Doriana
This was fast, fast, fast, which has come to be expected from a Doriana routine. Also expected was that there would be tons of lifts. The only time they faltered was at the end, which I thought was a bit clunky. But what was special, as Mary pointed out, was that the movements between the lifts also met the expectations set by the powerful lifts. I also agree that Janette recovered really well from her slip up. And, the icing on the cake was that their personality matched the intensity of their performance. They were really into it, which made the viewers enjoy the routine more.
5) Asuka and Vitolio; danced the waltz choreographed by Louis
This was meant to be an emotional dance for Vitolio and it had Mary crying by the end of the performance. Regardless, I didn't think Vitolio's movements flowed enough, which made the dance just OK for me. I wasn't as moved. Plus, Asuka annoys me. That coy, sly look she always gives the camera is so fake. Yuck!
6) Kayla and Max; dance pop jazz choreographed by Brian
They were really hitting it strong the whole dance. Kayla is such a powerhouse and Max feeds off her so they make an awesome pair. I don't really have much to say about this one because I thought it was really good.
7) Karla and Jonathan; danced a contemporary routine choreographed by a new choreographer - Stacey Tookey
I thought this was a very emotional dance. It was a great story and a great performance. Not much more to say, but I do want to point out that these two are pretty forgettable to me. Not that they are bad, they just don't stand out.
8) Janine and Phillip; danced a tango choreographed by Tony
They both have a lack of ballroom knowledge and it showed. While they both looked great - Phillip cleans up well and Janine looked sexy - this wasn't enough to distract me from how awful they were. Phillip looked lost and awkward. I too noticed his bent knees, which were apparently supposed to be, but he was also way too flat footed. But, as the judges pointed out, Phillip has a huge fan base so he shouldn't have anything to worry about. It just isn't fair that another couple will end up in the bottom when they deserve to be.
9) Ashley and Kupono; danced hip hop choreographed by Shane
In the dance she is supposed to be his shadow. It was a stretch for me, but I have to admit that I had far fewer problems with the overall performance than the judges did. While all three judges said they disliked it, I thought it was good. I didn't love it, but it wasn't awful.

In my honest opinion, any couple could be in the bottom three tomorrow. I don't think any of those performances prove that a certain couple deserves to stay in the competition. That said, I love Phillip, Kayla and Evan so would be heartbroken if they are sent home. Everyone else is disposable. What did you think about tonight's performances? Anyone really stand out for you? Who would you send home?

Spoiler: Another medical drama premieres

If there can never be too many police shows, then I guess there can also never be enough medical shows. Tonight, the new TNT drama HawthoRNe, starring Jada Pinkett Smith, premiered. The show follows chief nursing officer Christina during her daily tasks working in a hospital. The show is very character driven, much like ER, and I think that may help it find an audience. Now that ER has completed its run, fans may be looking for a similar show to watch. Well this is that show.

Christina, while seemingly devoted to her work as a chief nurse, also has character flaws, most of which stem from her family problems; her husband died a year ago, her daughter acts out in school and she hates her mother-in-law. Regardless, while at work, it is obvious she is someone the other nurses look up to. She is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in and is a powerful female role model.

For those who enjoy ER, I suggest watching this show. As for the first episode, if you watched I would love to hear your opinion. Did you like it? Will you continue watching? What do you think makes the show likable? Leave it here.

Speidi feel attacked. Booohooo

Heidi and Spencer Pratt are in the news again following an interview this morning with Al Roker on the Today show. The interview is embedded below. Speidi were there to talk about their experiences on the NBC show I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here. Heidi and Spencer thought the interview would be upbeat, but Al focused on their drama. He forced Heidi to answer a question she was trying to dance around and essentially called Spencer a jerk. Following the interview, Heidi said she felt personally attacked. For more about that, click here.

For the record, I watched the Today show segment this morning when it originally aired and thought to myself that it was weird how Al seemed to be attacking them. But I also think they deserve it. I don't think I hate any other "celebrity" more. They are not real celebrities and need to get out of the news. I hope people forget about them soon.

But that is just my opinion. I'd like to hear from you. Watch the video below and let me know if you think Al was being a bit harsh or if it was deserved?

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Ready or not...

After being delayed four months out of fear that Americans would not be ready, today is the day when the digital transition is completed. Here is an AP story about the switch, one that will likely have people freaking out because of their lack of signal. Are you prepared? Know anyone who isn't? I can't imagine there are that many people who didn't know this was coming. But I guess there are a lot of people who are oblivious.

Spoiler: Say goodbye to two dancers

On the first So You Think You Can Dance results show of the season, there weren't all that many surprises. I picked the correct bottom three and the worst two dancers went home. Here is what happened during the show.

The show opened with this season's first group performance, choreographed by Shane Sparks. I love the group performances because they never disappoint. In usual fashion, the choreography played up to each dancer's strengths. No one is ever left behind and they all looked great. I truly enjoyed the routine.

As for the schedule of the result shows, a new part of the show this year is that during the result show they will be featuring professional dancers performing styles from around the world. And, as always, there was a musical performance. This week's guest was Sean Kingston and, I'm not going to lie, I didn't watch.

In the season's first bottom three was, exactly as I guessed, Asuka and Vitolio; Paris and Tony; and Karla and Jonathan. With their solos Tony still did not impress me; I think Asuka's sexiness is getting annoying; Vitolio's performance was powerful; Paris was good, but average; Karla was great; and Jonathan had high energy. And just as a side note, I really always feel bad when the ballroom dancers have to perform solos; they always look so awkward alone. In the end Tony and Paris were sent home. Since they were a pair that means no one gets new partners for next week.

So what did you think? Is anyone sad to see them leave? Who do you think will be next? And who are you looking forward to seeing perform next week?

Robert Buckley is so hot!!

And though I would love to write an entire entry devoted to the level of his hotness, I have a real reason to bring this up. The CW announced today that Buckley is joining the cast of One Tree Hill as Nathan's agent. I have faithfully watched the show every season, and was seriously considering dropping it now that Chad Michael Murray and Hilarie Burton have left, but I think Buckley is more than enough reason to continue watching. Here is the full story. What do you think? Are you excited for his new role? I think this is going to be great.

Spoiler: SYTYCD - The top 20 perform and no one is left in the dust

This is going to be a great season. This summer's So You Think You Can Dance top 20 performed tonight and no duo was bad. Some excelled more than others, but there are no couples who are the obvious choice to be in the bottom three tomorrow night. All I can say is WOW. I was impressed multiple times throughout the night and I hope you were as pleased with the performances as I was. Here is a complete rundown of each performance.

1) Jeanine and Phillip
Dance this week: hip hop
Choreographer: Tabitha and Napoleon
Phillip was in his comfort zone and Jeanine was out of hers, but she held her own. For the first week they had a lot of chemistry as a pair and I think they were really great. I would label them impressive if only for performing so well being the first dance of the season.
2) Asuka and Vitolio
Dance this week: broadway
Choreographer: Tyce
I didn't love, nor hate this performance. I thought it seemed forced at times and agree with the judges who said it lacked personality and emotion. I also agree with Mary, who said they played it safe.
3) Karla and Jonathan
Dance this week: cha cha
Choreographer: Tony
This performance was good. There were moments of sexiness and it was obvious that both dancers were having fun. I also enjoyed the tricks within the choreography.
4) Randi and Evan
Dance this week: jazz
Choreographer: Tyce
I already loved Evan, but this further cemented in my mind how much I enjoy his dancing and personality. The dance was so romantic, sensual and fluid. And the choreography was outstanding.
5) Paris and Tony
Dance this week: hip hop
Choreographer: Tabitha and Napoleon
With this dance, Tony was also in his comfort zone. It seems weird that both hip hop dancers picked hip hop the first week. But despite that, here are my thoughts on their dancing. I thought it was good, but not memorable (and for the record, I wrote this in my notebook before Mary said it). It was a different type of choreography for Tabitha and Napoleon, who usually try to tell stories with their movements. This type of number is something I would expect from a choreographer like Shane. It didn't seem to click.
6) Caitlin and Jason
Dance this week: bollywood
Choreographer: Nakul
There are so many ways to fail a bollywood routine, but these two pulled through. The dancing was so fast, but they held their own. Even their fingers had to dance, and it worked. I can't believe they put bollywood in the first week, but that said, I enjoyed it. Caitlin slipped up and lost count a few times, but she always recovered and it was impressive.
7) Janette and Brandon
Dance this week: foxtrot
Choreographer: Louis van Amstel (from Dancing with the Stars!)
Overall, the dance was elegant and it was a good performance. But at times it was obvious that the two were lacking technique. Brandon, especially, seemed very heavy footed. But the lifts looked so effortless and it was a pleasure to watch.
8) Ashley and Kupono
Dance this week: jazz
Choreographer: WADE ROBSON (I am soooo soooo happy he is back. I missed his choreography. He is a genius!)
This dance required limited movements and it forced the dancers to perform. Luckily, they succeeded. As Nigel pointed out, they masted fluid robotic movements and it was a memorable performance.
9) Melissa and Ade
Dance this week: contemporary
Choreographer: Mandy Moore
This was an excellent performance. I believed every moment. It was moving, powerful, fluid, etc. And the lifts were so impressive.
10) Kayla and Max
Dance this week: samba
Choreographer: Louis
This is Max's style so his true job was to help Kayla through it. In the end, she outshined him. Though her facial expressions were a bit distracting at times, it was difficult to take your eyes of Kayla. This was a great dance with which to end the opening show.

If nothing else, this show reminds me of how great dance can be. The choreographers are amazing. Every performance has a story and I love getting the opportunity to experience 10 different dance styles in a two hour span. I hope you enjoyed the first episode and that you voted. Let me know who your early favorites are now that the couples have been announced. Also, who do you think will be in the bottom three tomorrow? My guess - Asuka and Vitolio; Paris and Tony; and Karla and Jonathan. Let me know your opinions. And here's to the start of a great season.

I guess this makes me a gleek

For those of you who follow my blog, you already know that I really enjoyed the new Fox show Glee. What I haven't mentioned is my love for the "I'm a gleek" commercial Fox has been airing. It is embedded below and I have to say it makes me smile. I am glad Fox is making a commitment to advertising for the show. I only hope the steam doesn't die down before the second episode of the show airs in the fall. Also embedded is the preview that was aired following the first episode. It makes me wish summer away so that it can be fall.

Why would anyone ever want to be Paris Hilton's friend?

I just watched five minute of the MTV show Paris Hilton's My New BFF and it forced me to ask myself (more than once I might add) who watches this show and who would ever want to be her friend? The show seems so forced and the people on it seem so desperate. This is the second season of the show, which proves that the first time around the friendship didn't last. Maybe that is proof enough that the premise of the show is a hoax. I only watched a few minutes and I wanted to pull my hair out. I can't imagine what I would do if I had to spend actual time in the presence of Paris Hilton.

No opinion yet on new Fox medical drama Mental

Mental, which began airing on Fox the last week of May, will air new episodes Tuesdays throughout the summer. The show, to me, seems very House. According to the show's website, here is the premise: "MENTAL is a medical mystery drama featuring Dr. Jack Gallagher, a radically unorthodox psychiatrist who becomes Director of Mental Health Services at a Los Angeles hospital where he takes on patients battling unknown, misunderstood and often misdiagnosed psychiatric conditions. Gallagher delves inside their minds to gain a true understanding of who his patients are, allowing him to uncover what might be the key to their long-term recovery." While, on the outside, this seems like a very interesting premise, the episode I watched tonight was less than memorable.

I should also mention that curiosity caused me to watch tonight's episode. The recently deceased David Carradine was the episode's guest patient and though he did not speak a single word the entire episode, his performance was memorable. I am glad I took the time to watch this, as it is one of his last performances. Overall, the episode had a simple plot: Man awakes from coma but continues to live in a catatonic state, not responding to stimuli or talking, etc.; doctors try to reconnect him to the real world; doctors realize there is no real problem with him, but instead he is faking and choosing to hide within himself; Gallagher literally forces him out of where he retreated.

Maybe I caught the show on an off night. Has anyone else been watching? What are your opinions of the show? I have to admit that I hate the head zipping thing before every commercial; once at the top of the show is plenty. I also didn't like that going into the first commercial, the audience had not yet been given any hints about the path the episode was going to take - we were not introduced to the guest patient or any such dilemma that would be discussed during the show. At that point I could have easily walked away from the episode, but there was nothing else on so I stuck with it. I'm not sure I will ever again watch, but if you are a fan I would love to hear what it is about the show that makes you want to see more. Leave it here.

If no one is watching, why is the show still on the air?

I am proud to announce that I have not once watched I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here. I am usually a sucker for celebrity based shows where we get to see our favorite has-beens do stupid things, but this one never seemed appealing. And with it airing every night of the week, my question is "Who is watching?" And almost more importantly, "Why?" Everywhere I've looked this last week there has been news about Heidi and Spencer causing drama. But even this has yet to tempt me enough to watch. So for those who have been watching I want to hear from you: What is the show's appeal?

Spoiler: Royal Pains premiere - "The only thing knocking here, Hank, is opportunity."

I wasn't really planning on watching - or enjoying for that matter - the new USA show Royal Pains, which premiered tonight. But I did watch and I did enjoy. It is exactly the summer pleasure television show needed to get through the long, hot months. Here is the premise as well as some key points needed to understand the show.

Dr. Hank Lawson (Mark Feuerstein) is one of the best ER doctors at the New York hospital where he works. When he brings in a patient who collapsed while playing basketball, on his day off nonetheless, he is devoted to making sure the patient is OK. But when a billionaire hospital trustee is also brought in, the hospital attending pressures Hank to switch his focus. After the "special" patient seems to be fine, Hank returns to the other patient who is in dire need of help. Hank saves the basketball playing patient, but the billionaire dies in a bad luck turn for the worse. Following this Hank is fired, blacklisted from becoming a doctor anywhere else and his fiance leaves him; essentially his life falls apart. Then his brother shows up and forces Hank to take a trip to the Hamptons to celebrate Memorial Day weekend.

While at a party, Hank is in a room where a woman needs medical attention. He helps the girl and the home owner refuses to allow him to call an ambulance. The host, Boris, pushes Hank to save the woman using items found in the mansion. He does and Boris insists on compensating him. He also mentions that Hank should look into becoming a concierge doctor, which is essentially a private doctor for hire. Hank refuses the proposal and says he does not want compensation.

But the next morning Hank is woken up by a phone call. The caller says it is a matter of life and death and Hank is texted an address to which he is supposed to report. Apparently his name and phone number was circulated throughout the area and he is, from that moment forth, called for special medical attention by members of the Hamptons' wealthiest citizens. For the rest of the episode Hank is continuously pushed into situations where he has to medically help others and is also being pressured to take more of an active role in the operation he is being forced to start. By the end of the episode he has agreed to being a "doctor on demand" full time and extend his stay in the Hamptons.

Am I the only one who watched? Am I the only one who liked? Does the premise sound like something that may interest you? The lifestyle of the rich never stops impressing when presented on television and these people clearly have enough money to demand anything from these types of personal doctors. I think it makes for an interesting topic to breach on a television show. Let me know what you thought of the premiere episode and if you plan to watch in the future.

Spoiler: SYTYCD top 20 announced, here starts the real competition

I have always found it interesting that So You Think You Can Dance strives to find America's FAVORITE dancer, not the best. Before tonight's episode began the playing field had been cut to 32 dancers. With only 20 spots open for next week, all of the dancer who had made it this far were wonderful at their craft. The judges were then met with the task of picking who they thought America could fall in love with. They are all the best. Starting next week, we have to vote who we like the most.

Here are a few notes on who made it and who did not.

- Brandon: Brandon has proven that he has amazing technique. When it was time for the judges to announce their decision, Mia was so rude to him. And worse than that, she would not stop. The other judges (Lil C not included) love him, but Mia would not let her distaste for him go. When they announced he was in the top 20 she even went as far as to ask how the two would work together. If that doesn't scream unprofessional, then I do not know what does.
- Tony: For some reason this week Tony has really stood out to me. He obviously is lacking in technique and has a little trouble with choreography, but he has a personality you can't help but love. And he is so adorable :)
- Ashley: I am so glad Ashley made it though. I don't know many dancers who could put themselves through what these dancers are put through during Vegas week but when she said this was her fourth time I knew I had to pull for her. That is true dedication to your craft.
- Alex: I was sad to see Alex sent home, but it was out of the judges hands. He is contracted to a ballet school and they would not let him out of the contract to perform on the show. I hope the inspirational words the judges showered him with help him realize he truly does have a gift.
- Phillip: Waver Phillip is through! His performances continually make me happy. I am so happy he proved he can perform other styles. He is so so original. Enough said.
- Evan and Ryan: I am PISSED at the judges/producers who thought it was a good idea to have the final male decision be between BROTHERS. It was so mean, not to mention heartbreaking to watch. No matter who made it through the other brother was going to be crushed that he beat out his best friend. And as I predicted last night, because they have such similar styles of dance the judges felt they could not both make it to the top 20. In the end younger brother Evan made it through riding the coattails of his older brother's excellent choreography.

Following is the full list of the top 20:
Asuka Kondoh
Janette Manrara
Karla Garcia
Kayla Radomski
Caitlin Kinney
Randi Evans
Jeanine Mason
Ashley Valerio
Paris Torres
Melissa Sandvig
Ade Obayomi
Brandon Bryant
Max Kapitannikov
Tony Bellissimo
Jonathan Platero
Phillip Chbeeb
Evan Kasprzak
Vitolio Jeune
Jason Glover
Kupono Aweau

Now that the top 20 has been named who are your favorites? I am so excited for next week when each couple gets to perform for the first time. Until then :)

SYTYCD Vegas week summarized in two hours: "Enjoy however long you're here"

In total, 172 dancers made it through the first round of this season of So You Think You Can Dance and to Las Vegas. By the end of tonight's two hour episode only 32 remained and those 32 will be cut down to 10 boys and 10 girls by the end of tomorrow's episode. But before then, I need to give a summary. So here is what happened during this year's grueling Vegas week.

The first day started with the dancers performing their solo for the six judges as a way to remind them why they were put through. At this point there was no feedback given and it was only supposed to be a round where the dancers could leave an impression on the judges. But unexpectedly, the judges cut 45 people. All it took was one judge saying 'I think this dancer has potential' and they were saved, but apparently 45 were no good even in their own style.

The first round of choreography was a hip hop number by Tabitha and Napoleon. Following these performances an additional 37 dancers were sent home leaving only 96 to return for day 2.

A Jean Marc ballroom routine had to be performed elegantly for the dancers to make it through to the afternoon session of day 2. Sixteen failed and were cut loose.

Next came a jazz routine with Sonya, which left seven dancers without a chance. During this round we saw two-season favorite Natalie sent home, much to the surprise of her, Sonya and the other dancers. Also, Nigel's favorite "different" dancer, Gabi, did not impress but was given the chance to dance for her life. She did, at the end, make it to the next round.

By the end of day 2 there were still 73 contestants left in the competition. Just when the dancers thought their day was done, Cat surprised them by putting them in groups to prepare for the group dance segment of the show. The groups had until 7 a.m. the next day to come up with a dance and most stayed awake late into the night. I have to admit that I was not all that impressed with any of the group dances. The judges seemed equally unimpressed but by the end of this round, only five dancers were cut leaving 68 dancers to move on.

During the second half of day 3 the dancers were asked to perform a contemporary routine choreographed by Mia. She always expects a lot and though there weren't many movements she forced the dancers to make each step count. Thirteen more dancers were cut following this routine.

Going into the final day, 54 contestants were left. The girls and the guys were separated and each sex was taught a Broadway routine by Tyce during different segments of the day. From here the judges cut the group down to 16 boys and 16 girls.

Once this cut was made each of the final 32 were given one last shot to impress by performing their solo. During tomorrow's one hour episode 12 more contestants will be cut and we will be left with a top 20.

My overall thought: I really REALLY like the brothers who are still in it. My only concern is that they are overall similar in their dance style, which may cause the judges to only allow one into the top 20 even though they both deserve it. Do you have any early season favorites? Who do you want in or out of the top 20?

Conan makes Tonight Show debut

I wanted to write about Conan O'Brien's first night as host of the Tonight Show and since that happened two days ago, I am going to review his first two episodes. To begin with, I want to reiterate that I do not particularly like Conan, but I have to admit that he has been pleasantly entertaining his first few episodes.

His first show began with a prepared package video of him having just realized that he did not move to LA, as needed, from New York. Conan then proceeds to run across the country only to realize he forgot his keys in NY and has to bulldoze down the studio door. Conan's first guest was Will Ferrell and his first musical guest was Pearl Jam. One of the funnier parts of the night was when Will sang Conan a song to celebrate the new show and it was a song about goodbyes: "Don't get me wrong, I'm pulling for you. But this whole thing is a crap-shoot at best," Will said.

Day two saw guest Tom Hanks and a musical performance by Green Day. For the second night, Conan asked his guest for tips about the LA area and while Will had fun with this the night before, Tom was pretty serious and praised In-N-Out Burger, a California staple.

Some things that are different and may take getting used to: 1) Conan talks for much longer at the top of the show before taking his first commercial, 2) They go to a commercial following the musical performance coming back just to say goodbye before leading into Late Night, 3) There is a new set and I have to admit that I love it. Blue as the color works well and I love the LA skyline behind Conan's desk. Both nights the crowd was very enthusiastic. At the top of the show both times the crowd chanted Conan and cheered for what seemed like forever. I think this proves that he will continue to have a fan base.

That's it from my end. What have you thought so far? Do you have high expectations? Do you think Conan will succeed in this time slot? I'd love to hear your opinions.

Spoiler: An SVU season finale that kept me gasping

And I not only gasped, but there were also times when I actually swore at the TV. I think tonight's finale was one of the best, if not the best, episode of the season. I am not going to give a total rundown, but I will give a brief synopsis.

A woman is found murdered (isn't that how all Law & Order episodes start?) and the suspect they pick up is paranoid. He thinks he is being followed, thinks people are out to get him and eventually is labeled as mentally ill. Because of a clerical error, made by that very eclectic lab technician Dale, the obvious murderer is set free on lack of evidence. In the closing minutes of the episode, in a very shocking twist, we find out that DALE is the killer! To make up for his mistake he tried to plant another murder on the conspiracy theorist, but when he left behind evidence he starting killing others who might figure it out.

One additional note, here are two interesting quotes from the episode that further explain the extremity of the paranoid man's actions:
- "Hey, we'll be watching you." "Who isn't?"
- "...and I didn't kill you. You did it to yourselves."

So what did you think? The ending included a turn of events I was not expecting and it kept me on my toes. Do you agree that it was a great episode? If you didn't watch, I recommend you do. Episodes like this one remind me why Law & Order is the type of television must-watch it is.

A show I wish I was watching...

I just watched, for the first time, the show Big Bang Theory and I have to admit that it made me laugh much more than I was expecting. Now that Monday television is mostly repeats, and nothing new on this night seems interesting, I may start watching the back episodes. Do any of my readers fans? Do you agree that it is pretty funny? Should I pick it up as a show to watch?