TV Upfronts: The CW's 2013-2014 Schedule

Much like its corporate sibling, The CW wasn't afraid of moving around some pieces while keeping its heavy-hitters in place to help launch new shows.


2013-2014 Fall Line-up (NOTE: New shows are in UPPER CASE and times are Eastern Standard)

Mondays
8-10p: Hart of Dixie
10-11p: Beauty and the Beast

Initial Thoughts: I wasn't shocked when these two shows were renewed, but I never thought I'd see them on the same night since there's more compatible programming to go along with them. I wonder if The CW's just conceded Monday nights to the big boys.

Tuesdays
8-9p: THE ORIGINALS
10-11p: Supernatural

Initial Thoughts: I would've bet good money on The Originals following The Vampire Diaries and Supernatural sticking with Arrow. It's a good thing I'm not a gambler. The thing is, it kind of makes sense to cut the cord between the two vampire shows because The Originals should be able to handle its own business. As for Supernatural, the fans will follow it anywhere The CW puts it, so why not let Arrow launch a new show.

Wednesdays

8-9p: Arrow
10-11p: The Tomorrow People


Initial Thoughts: Since Arrow's one of The CW's only two hits, the networklet needs to use it to build its line-up, and The Tomorrow People seems like a decent enough fit.

Thursdays

8-9p: The Vampire Diaires
10-11p: REIGN

Initial Thoughts: Reign's probably a risky choice for The CW, but pairing it with TVD shouldn't hurt (but the same was said about Nikita, The Secret Circle, and Beauty and the Beast). That said, I can see it catching on with the TVD set.

Fridays
8-9p: The Carrie Diaries
10-11p: America's Next Top Model

Initial Thoughts: Thematically I can see why The CW would put these two shows together, but I would've much rather seen TCD with HoD on Mondays and a Friday night consisting of Nikita and Beauty and the Beast, but oh well.

Mid-Season: The 100, Nikita, and Star-Crossed

So there you have it. The newest offerings from the five U.S. networks. All in all, it was a somewhat lackluster Upfront season in spite of some interesting programming choices. Sure, we're getting some genre fare (sci-fi, superheroes, historical dramas), but most of the offerings feel like they're chasing a ten-year old trend. I won't be surprised if everyone's wiping the slate clean next season... except for CBS of course.

TV Upfronts: CBS' 2013-2014 Schedule

Unlike ABC and FOX, CBS was able to shake things up just enough while also showing signs of stability with its new schedule, and the changes were a welcomed sight because the most-watched network didn't have to do anything different to boost ratings.


2013-2014 Fall Line-up (NOTE: New shows are in UPPER CASE and times are Eastern Standard)

Sundays
8-9p: The Amazing Race
9-10p: The Good Wife
10-11p: The Mentalist

Initial Thoughts: OK, this night didn't change at all but that's alright because old people like their routines and CBS probably didn't want to confuse anyone.

Mondays (fall)
8-8:30p: How I Met Your Mother
8:30-9p: WE ARE MEN
9-9:30p: 2 Broke Girls
9:30-10p: MOM
10-11p: HOSTAGES


Mondays (mid-season)
8-8:30p: How I Met Your Mother
8:30-9p: WE ARE MEN
9-9:30p: 2 Broke Girls
9:30-10p: MOM
10-11p: INTELLIGENCE

Initial Thoughts: CBS Mondays are relatively stable with HIMYM and 2BG anchoring the night, but they're being asked to prop up two new comedies in We Are Men and Mom, and Hawaii Five-0 has been replaced with the time-share dramas Hostages and Intelligence. I can't say the moves were too risky but they make sense with the exception of We Are Men being the sole single-cam comedy in the bunch.

Tuesdays

8-9p: NCIS
9-10p: NCIS: Los Angeles
10-11p: Person of Interest

Initial Thoughts: Another night with only a slight difference as the two NCIS shows lead into Person of Interest, which should help boost the night for the Eye.

Wednesdays

8-9p: Survivor
9-10p: Criminal Minds
10-11p: CSI: Crime Scene Investigation


Initial Thoughts: Yet another line-up that carried over from last season, but again too much change can be disorienting for some older viewers.

Thursdays

8-8:30p: The Big Bang Theory
8:30-9p: THE MILLERS
9-9:30p: THE CRAZY ONES
9:30-10p: Two and a Half Men
10-11p: Elementary

Initial Thoughts: CBS finally went and added another hour of comedy to it's schedule, and while it makes some sense to have Big Bang Theory kick off the night, I was a little perplexed by The Crazy Ones getting 9PM over Two and a Half Men. I suppose CBS is banking on Robin Williams being enough of a draw and Two and a Half Men bowing out at the end of the year. Or maybe it's just an odd move like Elementary staying put and PoI being shipped to Tuesdays.

Fridays


8-9p: Undercover Boss
9-10p: Hawaii Five-0
10-11p: Blue Bloods



Initial Thoughts: H50's the next aging CBS procedural to be put out to pasture, and I can't really blame CBS for making this move. At least they didn't throw one of their new shows under the bus like they did with Made in Jersey.

Mid-Season: Mike & Molly, Reckless, and Friends with Better Lives.

CBS could have easily rested on its laurels and continued to dominated network television, but it decided to try some new things this time around, and hopefully things work out for the Eye because breaking away from the mundane should be encouraged. So what if I'm not going to watch a second of its programming?

TV Upfronts: ABC's 2013-2014 Schedule

Much like FOX, ABC decided to try out some new programs but pretty much crammed them in the same structure it used last season and ended up with a somewhat lackluster schedule for 2013-2014.

2013-2014 Fall Line-up (NOTE: New shows are in UPPER CASE and times are Eastern Standard)

Sundays
8-9p: Once Upon a Time
9-10p: Revenge
10-11p: BETRAYAL

Initial Thoughts: Last year, I was surprised when ABC put its two first year hits on the same night (Once Upon a Time and Revenge), and this time around I was surprised by the fact that they're still together. Ratings haven't been stellar for the two sophomore shows, and moving at least one of them wouldn't have been a horrible idea, but here were are with the exact same combo leading into a wannabe Scandal. Ho-hum.

Mondays
8-10p: Dancing with the Stars
10-11p: Castle

Initial Thoughts: Mondays would really be boring if not for the fact that ABC's trimming DwtS to one night a week. Other than that, same old stuff which shouldn't surprise anyone because it's clear that Castle will never leave its current home. Then again, it's not like Dancing's the juggernaut that it used to be so it's lead-out power has evaporated.

Tuesdays
8-9p: Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
9-9:30p: THE GOLDBERGS
9:30-10p: TROPHY WIFE
10-11p: LUCKY 7

Initial Thoughts: Another head-scratcher from ABC: keeping its Tuesday night comedy block. It clearly didn't work last season, and it's probably going to be another bust by the looks of it. To be fair, I have no idea what Trophy Wife is about (probably about a trophy wife) but I don't care either. Ditto for a drama about poor people winning the lottery. Thankfully, there's S.H.I.E.L.D. but I'm not sure if this is the right spot for it.

Wednesdays

8-8:30p: The Middle
8:30-9p: BACK IN THE GAME
9-9:30p: Modern Family
9:30-10p: SUPER FUN NIGHT
10-11p: Nashville

Initial Thoughts: Since I'm a Maggie Lawson fan, I'm happy that her show was picked up. I would've preferred that it got the post-Modern Family spot, but it's blatantly obvious that ABC wants to grab onto Rebel Wilson's coattails so of course Super Fun Night gets the primo slot even though it sticks out like a show about six pretty people living in Chicago or a b---- in an apartment. And why is Nashville staying put? And where's Suburgatory?!?!

Thursdays
8-9p: ONCE UPON A TIME IN WONDERLAND
9-10p: Grey's Anatomy
10-11p: Scandal

Initial Thoughts: Wonderland's probably D.O.A. since it's going to be on Thursdsays at 8, but that's fine by me. Of course Grey's isn't moving, but I seriously thought ABC would've used Shonda Rhimes' other hit to help build another night instead of keeping it in big sister's shadow. Whatever.

Fridays
8-8:30p: Last Man Standing
8:30-9p: The Neighbors
9-10p: Shark Tank
10-11p: 20/20

Initial Thoughts: What's a natural companion to Tim "The Toolman" Taylor? Wacky aliens, of course. All kidding aside, I don't think this Friday line-ups a horrible one, maybe a scattered one, but not the oddest of choices.

Mid-Season: The Bachelor, Killer Women, Mind Games, Mixology, Suburgatory, The Taste, and The Quest.

Once you look past the smoke and mirrors, it's pretty clear that ABC didn't really learn anything after another disappointing season. It just plugged up the holes left behind by its mediocre/under performing shows  with spackle rather than shake things up. I guess it's OK with being fourth place in the key demo over and over again.

TV Upfronts: FOX's 2013-2014 Schedule

Next up to reveal its 2013-2014 schedule was FOX, and they took a less change is better approach because it kept most of its tentpoles in place and only swapped out what's around them. For example, it's sticking with Animation Domination on Sundays, four comedy Tuesdays, and Glee on Thursdays. Oh, and Bones to Fridays but more on that later.

2013-2014 Fall Line-up (NOTE: New shows are in UPPER CASE and times are Eastern Standard)

Sundays
8-8:30p: The Simpsons
8:30-9p: Bob's Burgers
9-9:30p: Family Guy
9:30-10p: American Dad!

Initial Thoughts: Yup, nothing to see here.

Mondays (fall)
8-9p: Bones
9-10p: SLEEPY HALLOW

Mondays (late fall)
8-9p: ALMOST HUMAN
9-10p: SLEEPY HALLOW

Mondays (mid-season)
8-9p: ALMOST HUMAN
9-10p: The Following

Initial Thoughts: Bones is such a utility player at this point that FOX is actually using it to keep Mondays at 8 warm until Almost Human's ready to take over, and then it's going to Friday nights for some reason. I just hope for FOX's sake that The Following was not too dependent on Bones because it's not going to have that luxury this time around... unless Almost Human tanks and the Hart Hanson procedural saves the day again.

Tuesdays
8-8:30p: Dads
8:30-9p: Brooklyn Nine-Nine
9-9:30p: New Girl
9:30-10p: The Mindy Project

Initial Thoughts: Talk about mish-mash. I have no idea what FOX is going for with this line-up, and I still think Glee should've been shipped back to Tuesdays, but I don't know anything except for a four comedy Tuesday probably will flop... again.

Wednesdays (fall)
8-10p: The X-Factor

Wednesdays (mid-season)
8-10p: American Idol

Initial Thoughts: Yawn.

Thursdays (fall)
8-9p: The X-Factor
9-10p: Glee

Thursdays (mid-season)
8-9p: American Idol
9-10p: RAKE

Initial Thoughts: I don't know why Glee's still on Thursdays, and I'm a gleek. I was sure FOX was going to use the X-Factor/American Idol combo to help prop up a show like New Girl (even though it rarely helps comedies), but here we are. That said, giving Rake a decent lead-in isn't a horrible idea but I wonder about the potential for crossover.

Fridays (falls)
8-9p: Junior Masterchef
9-10p: Encore Programming

Fridays (mid-season)
8-9p: Bones
9-9:30p: Raising Hope
9:30-10p: ENLISTED

Initial Thoughts: Theoretically, I don't see anything wrong with scheduling Bones and Raising Hope on Fridays, but part of me can't help but think what was the point of bringing them back if this is the plan. On top of that, launching a new sitcom after the low-rated Hope's also a head-scratcher, but it's not like any of FOX's moves have made sense to me.

Mid-Season: 24: Live Another Day, Gang Related, Murder Police, Surviving Jack, Us & Them, and Wayward Pines

I know that the lack of drastic changes should be a sign of confidence, but it's not like FOX was raking up the viewers this past season, so I would've have blamed it one bit for trying something new. I guess I was just expecting more from FOX this time around and can't help but feel a little let down. Ah well.

TV Upfronts: NBC's 2013-2014 Schedule

The fates of most current shows and pilots have been determined, and now it's time to see where all of these programs are placed on the 2013-2014 network television schedule. NBC was the first out of gate on Sunday when it revealed its upcoming rotation.

2013-2014 Fall Line-up (NOTE: New shows are in UPPER CASE and times are Eastern Standard)

Sundays (fall)
7-8:15p: Football Night in America
8:15p-End: NBC Sunday Night Football

Sundays (after football)
7-8p: Dateline NBC
8-9p: AMERICAN DREAM BUILDERS
9-10p: BELIEVE
10-11p: CRISIS

Initial Thoughts: Sunday nights on NBC are the easiest nights to program during the fall since it's all about football, but things take interesting turns come mid-season. I have no idea what American Dream Builders is, but it sounds like an uplifting reality show in the vein of Extreme Makeover, which isn't a horrible way to kick-off the night, but pairing a sci-fi program (Believe) with a political thriller/mystery (Crisis) seems like a bit of mismatch. That said, ABC proved that two different genres could work well together on Sunday nights... at least that's what NBC's probably hoping for.

Mondays
8-10p: The Voice
10-11p: THE BLACKLIST

Initial Thoughts: There were some rumblings about NBC moving The Voice later into the week to crush X-Factor, but it looks like its staying put which makes the most sense. In a somewhat surprising move (but not really when you think about it), The Blacklist (starring James Spader) got the cushy lead-in, which will hopefully get some eyeballs on it although I'm wondering how Revolution will fare without spinning red chairs in front of it.

Tuesdays (fall)
8-9p: The Biggest Loser
9-10p: The Voice
10-11p: Chicago Fire

Tuesdays (mid-season)
8-9p: The Voice
9-9:30p: ABOUT A BOY
9:30-10p: FAMILY GUIDE
10-11p: Chicago Fire

Initial Thoughts: It's clear that NBC needs The Voice to be a hit-maker, which is the only explination for why it'd be sandwiched in between The Biggest Loser and Chicago Fire. The latter was a very modest success for the Peacock, so I'm sure it wants to nurture it while it can. Then at mid-season, The Voice goes back to 8 to help out About a Boy and Family Guide (which should match up nicely).

Wednesdays
8-9p: Revolution
9-10p: Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
10-11p: IRONSIDE

Initial Thoughts: One of the biggest questions has to be whether or not Revolution can survive on its own. Honestly, I was sure NBC would have protected the post-apocalyptic drama for at least a half-season more, but instead it's in a lead-off position in front of SVU (which tends to not do well at 9) and another remake of an old cop show (Ironside). Curious move.

Thursdays
8-8:30p: Parks and Recreation
8:30-9p: WELCOME TO THE FAMILY
9-9:30p: SEAN SAVES THE WORLD
9:30-10p: THE MICHAEL J. FOX SHOW
10-11p: Parenthood

Initial Thoughts: Do you remember when NBC said it wanted to get out of the niche comedy business and go broader and we believed them? Suckers! I don't quite get this decision because not only does Parks and Rec stick out, but then there's a mult-cam sitcom smack dab in the middle of the entire night. It just doesn't make sense to me, especially when a line-up consisting of The New Normal, Welcome to the Family, The Michael J. Fox Show, and Go On seems like a no-brainer. I'll give NBC some credit though; Parenthood to Thursday nights feels right.

Fridays (fall)
8-9p: Dateline NBC
9-10p: Grimm
10-11p: DRACULA

Fridays (mid-season)

8-9p: Dateline NBC
9-10p: Grimm
10-11p: CROSSBONES

Initial Thoughts: Not much to see here besides the fact that NBC relegated the two genre shows it sent straight to series to Friday nights. I suppose back in the day, this move would've been a death knell, but Grimm's success on the night has proven that these kind of shows can be successful... when it's facing lowered expectations.

Mid-Season: Chicago PD, Community, The Night Shift, and Undateable.

I guess I should have expected NBC to go back to the drawing board after 2012-13 kind of floundered towards the end there, but I don't know if it improved anything because banking on stars from the 80's can only go so far. But NBC should also be commended for wiping the slate clean and trying different kinds of shows as well (sci-fi, fairy tales, vampires, and pirates all made the cut). Regardless, it should be funny watching what happens this time around.

News: More Renewals, Cancellations, and Pick-Ups

Pre-Upfront craziness continued as ABC finally announced its new slate of programming while the other networks continued to determine the fates of their current shows and pilots.

ABC announced that it picked-up Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Back in the Game, Betrayal, The Goldbergs, Killer Women, Lucky 7, Mind Games, Mixology, Once Upon a Time in Wonderland, Resurrection, Super Fun Night, and Trophy Wife. The Alphabet also renewed Castle, Grey's Anatomy, Last Man Standing, The Middle, Modern Family, Nashville, The Neighbors, Once Upon a Time, Revenge, Scandal, and Suburgatory. Unfortunately, Happy Endings was canceled along with 666 Park Avenue, Body of Proof, Don't Trust the B----, Family Tools, How To Live..., Last Resort, Malibu Country, Private Practice, Red Widow, and Zero Hour.

Meanwhile, CBS sent Crazy Ones, Hostages, Intelligence, The Millers, Mom, and We Are Men to series. As for those not coming back, CSI: NY, Golden Boy, Rules of Engagement, and Vegas joined the aforementioned axed shows.

NBC continued to shape its offerings by picking up The Blacklist, Chicago PD, Ironside, The Night Shift, Undateable, and Welcome to the Family while cancelling Go On, The New Normal, and Smash. Oh, and it renewed Community for a fifth season.

Whew! I'm sure that's it for now, but a few more announcements will probably leak out during the actual upfront presentations. Stay tuned for more.

News: Let the Renewals, Cancellations, and Pick-Ups Begin

It's been a busy couple of days as most of the major U.S. television networks have started making decisions on which shows will grace the small screen next season.

FOX got the ball rolling by picking up nine new shows: four dramas and five comedies. On the lighter side, the Andy Samburg cop show (Brooklyn Nine-Nine) from Parks and Recreation's Dan Goor and Mike Shur got picked up along with Seth MacFarlane's Dads, Enlisted (from Cougar Town's Kevin Biegel), Surviving Jack, and Us and Them (starring Parenthood's Jason Ritter and Gilmore Girl's Alexis Bledel). As for dramas, Bad Robot's Almost Human, Rake with Greg Kinnear, a modernized Sleepy Hallow, and Gang Related were all sent to series. These nine newbies will join the previously renewed American Dad!, Bob's Burgers, Bones, Family Guy, The Following, Glee, The Mindy Project, New Girl, Raising Hope, The Simpsons, and The X-Factor. Not coming back next season: Ben and Kate, COPS, Fringe, The Mob Doctor, and Touch (although 24 could be revived).

NBC joined the fun by picking up five new shows: About a Boy (starring Bent's David Walton), Believe (written and directed by Alfonso Cuaron and produced by J.J. Abram's Bad Robot), Crisis, The Family Guide (from Arrested Development's Jason Bateman), and Sean Saves the World (Sean Hayes' return to NBC). They will join recently renewed Parks and Recreation along with Chicago Fire, Grimm, Law & Order: SVU, Parenthood, Revolution, The Sing-Off, and The Voice. No word yet on Community, Go On, The New Normal, or Hannibal, but Deception, 1600 Penn, Whitney, Guys with Kids, and Up All Night were all canceled.

The 100, The Originals, Reign, Star-Crossed, The Tomorrow People were added to The CW's roster, which already includes America's Next Top Model, Arrow, Beauty and the Beast, The Carrie Diaries, Hart of Dixie, Nikita, Supernatural, and The Vampire Diaries. Unfortunately for some, 90210, Cult, Emily Owens, and Gossip Girl will not be returning.

Last but not least, CBS renewed Criminal Minds for a ninth season after contract negotiations concluded. The crime procedural will be tossed on the pile along with 2 Broke Girls, The Amazing Race, The Big Bang Theory, Blue Bloods, CSI, Elementary, The Good Wife, Hawaii Five-0, How I Met Your Mother, The Mentalist, Mike & Molly, NCIS, NCIS: LA, Person of Interest, Survivor, Two and a Half Men, and Undercover Boss. That leaves Golden Boy, Vegas, CSI: NY, and Rules of Engagement on the bubble, and The Job, Made in Jersey, and Partners in the grave.

So, even though Upfronts do not technically start until Sunday when NBC reveals its schedule, we at least have an idea of where four of the major networks stand when it comes to the majority of their line-ups, and the fun is just getting started. Stay tuned for more.

TV Upfronts: Armchair Programmer Series - The CW

Part 5 of this year's Armchair Programmer Series will take a look at The CW. The tween-skewing networklet still isn't successful enough to compete with the big boys, but it didn't have a horrible season either (by its low standards) because it has a hit in Arrow so there might be some hope yet.

Officially Renewed The CW Shows
America's Next Top Model
Arrow
Beauty and the Beast
Hart of Dixie
Supernatural
The Vampire Diaries

Officially/Effectively Canceled/Finished The CW Shows
90210
Cult
Emily Owens, M.D.
Gossip Girl (Final Season)

Possibly Renewed The CW Shows
Nikita

Possibly Canceled The CW Shows
The Carrie Diaries

Drama Pilots
Blink
Company Town
Hundred, The
Originals, The
Oxygen
Reign
Selection, The
Tomorrow People, The

One last time. It's hard to predict which pilots will go to series, but we can always take a look at history, brand, etc. The CW has given up on comedies, and it doesn't look like that's going to change anytime soon which is fine by me. From the looks of things, it really wants to capitalize on the young adult fantasy trend, so don't be shocked if The Hundred, Oxygen, The Selection, and The Tomorrow People all join The Originals next year.

Possible The CW Shows for 2013-2014
America's Next Top Model
Arrow
Beauty and the Beast
Hart of Dixie
The Hundred
Nikita
The Originals
Oxygen
The Selection
Supernatural
The Tomorrow People
The Vampire Diaries

Possible The CW Schedule for 2013-2014
Mondays
8-9p: The Hundred
9-10p: The Tomorrow People

I know that kicking off the week with two new shows is risky, but now that The CW has run out of rich kid dramas, it needs to figure out what to do with Mondays, so why not start from scratch. If the network wants to rebrand itself as the Syfy for teenage girls, then both The Hundred and The Tomorrow People fit the bill.

Tuesdays
8-9p: Hart of Dixie
9-10p: The Selection

As much as I love Hart of Dixie, it sticks out on the CW schedule because it's not like anything else on the roster (assuming Carrie's dead and gone). Since it doesn't have a natural pairing, why move it at all? I don't know how or if HoD will help out The Selection, but giving the newbie an established lead-in couldn't hurt. Right? Man, The CW needs to steal Bunheads from ABC Family stat.

Wednesdays
8-9p: Arrow
9-10p: Supernatural

Why mess with a good thing?

Thursdays
8-9p: The Vampire Diaries
9-10p: The Originals

The CW has struggled to find The Vampire Diaries a partner for the past four seasons, so hopefully a show that's based on it will actually stick. Honestly, I don't find the idea behind The Originals all that compelling but it has the best shot at capitalizing on TVD's lead in.

Fridays
8-9p: Nikita
9-10p: Beauty and the Beast

There's still some debate about whether or not Nikita will be coming back at all, but I can see it getting a fourth season due to syndication. Since The CW's already committed to bringing back Beauty and the Beast, the two seem like a natural pairing.

Mid-Season: America's Next Top Model and Oxygen

So there you have it; my thoughts on the major network's developmental slate and where they could go next season. As always, there are just my predictions and shouldn't be taken as fact unless I'm right. Quick reminder, the network upfront presentation dates are:

May 13, 2013 - NBC and FOX
May 14, 2013 - ABC
May 15, 2013 - CBS
May 16, 2013 - The CW

Thanks for putting up with my crazy ideas, and let me know what your thoughts are in the comments.

TV Upfronts: Armchair Programmer Series - CBS

Part 4 of this year's Armchair Programmer Series will take aim at CBS. It doesn't seem like the Eye's dominance will end any time soon, so CBS will probably have the least to worry about when the 2013-14 season starts. That said, some of its shows haven't aged as well as it probably would've liked which could lead to a lot of shifts in the schedule. I'm also going to be honest, I didn't put much thought into this one since I no longer watch any CBS shows (damn you, HIMYM)

Officially Renewed CBS Shows
2 Broke Girls
The Amazing Race
The Big Bang Theory
Blue Bloods
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
Elementary
The Good Wife
Hawaii Five-0
How I Met Your Mother
The Mentalist
Mike & Molly
NCIS
NCIS: Los Angeles
Person of Interest
Survivor
Two and a Half Men
Undercover Boss

Officially/Effectively Canceled/Finished CBS Shows
The Job
Made in Jersey
Partners

Possibly Renewed CBS Shows
Rules of Engagement

Possibly Canceled CBS Shows
CSI: NY
Friend Me
Golden Boy
Vegas

Comedy Pilots
Bad Teacher
Crazy Ones, The
Ex Men
Friends with Better Lives
Gaffigan
Jacked Up
McCarthys, The
Mom
Mother's Day
Super Clyde
Untitled Greg Garcia
Untitled Tad Quill Project

Drama Pilots
Advocates, The
Anatomy of Violence, The
Backstrom
Beverly Hills Cop
Hostages
Intelligence
Ordained, The
Reckless
Second Sight
Surgeon General, The
Untitled NCIS: Los Angeles Project

Once again, it's hard to predict which pilots will go to series but we can always look at history, brand, etc. CBS has become the 1,000 lb. gorilla thanks to multi-camera comedies and procedurals. Sure, it's strayed from time to time but those shows rarely break-out, so it's safe to say that CBS will stick with what's worked  in the past. Comedy wise, I can see The Crazy Ones, Ex Men, Friends with Better Lives, Mom, and the Tad Quall show getting picked up. As for dramas, I'm going with Backstrom, Beverly Hills Cop, Reckless, and the NCIS spin-off going to series.

Possible CBS Shows for 2013-2014

2 Broke Girls
The Amazing Race
Backstrom
Beverly Hills Cop
The Big Bang Theory
Blue Bloods
The Crazy Ones
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
Elementary
Ex Men
Friends with Better Lives
The Good Wife
Hawaii Five-0
How I Met Your Mother
The Mentalist
Mike & Molly
Mom
NCIS
NCIS: Los Angeles
NCIS: LA spin-off
Person of Interest
Reckless
Survivor
Two and a Half Men
Undercover Boss
Untitled Tad Quall Project

Possible CBS Schedule for 2013-2014
Sundays
8-9p: The Amazing Race
9-10p: CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
10-11p: The Mentalist

While The Mentalist has dipped this season and has gotten on in age, I don't see it moving from Sunday nights for some illogical reason. Then again, I haven't seen a second of this show so what do I know.

Mondays
8-8:30p: How I Met Your Mother
8:30-9p:  Tad Quall
9-9:30p: 2 Broke Girls
9:30-10p: Friends with Better Lives
10-11p: Beverly Hills Cop

Aside from the Tad Quall show, Mondays could be all about yuppies bagging on one another which doesn't appeal to me as much as it does to others, but this line-up hinges on whether or not CBS wants to build off of its Thursday night block. More on that later. As for the drama, H50's getting long in the tooth and not competing as well against Castle and Revolution, so I can see it being shipped off somewhere else which frees up its spot for yet another reboot/sequel/whatever.

Tuesdays
8-9p: NCIS
9-10p: NCIS: Los Angeles
10-11p: NCIS: LA spin-off

It's all NCIS, all the time. Bored now.

Wednesdays
8-9p: Survivor
9-10p: Criminal Minds
10-11p: Person of Interest

Why not?

Thursdays
8-8:30p: The Big Bang Theory
8:30-9p: Mike & Molly
9-9:30p: Two and a Half Men
9:30-10p: Mom
10-11p: Elementary

It's all Chuck Lorre, all the time. Really bored now, but honestly I'm not confident about another 2-hour comedy block.

Fridays
8-9p: The Good Wife
9-10p: Hawaii Five-0
10-11p: Blue Bloods

Where CBS shows go to die very long deaths.

Mid-Season: Everything not listed above.

As always, please note that these are just predictions and should not be taken as fact... unless I'm right. Next up, The CW.

TV Upfronts: Armchair Programmer Series - ABC

Part 3 of this year's Armchair Programmer Series will focus on ABC. It's easy to take shots at NBC, but in all reality ABC didn't have a stellar season either since it didn't have a "hit" like it did last year with Once Upon a Time and Revenge, and even those shows aren't bringing in the viewers like they used to. When the dust settles, the Alphabet could look very different than it does now.

Officially Renewed ABC Shows
None to date

Officially/Effectively Cancelled/Finished ABC Shows
666 Park Avenue
Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23
Last Resort
Private Practice (final season)
Zero Hour

Possibly Renewed ABC Shows
20/20
The Bachelor
Body of Proof
Castle
Dancing with the Stars
Grey's Anatomy
How to Live with Your Parents for the Rest of Your Life
Last Man Standing
Malibu Country
Modern Family
Nashville
Once Upon a Time
Primetime
Revenge
Scandal
Shark Tank
Suburgatory
The Middle
Wife Swap

Possibly Cancelled ABC Shows
Family Tools
Happy Endings
The Neighbors
Red Widow

Comedy Pilots
Adopted
Back in the Game
Bad Management
Divorce: A Love Story
Goldbergs, The
King John
Middle Age Rage
Mixology
Pulling
Spy
Super Fun Night
Trophy Wife

Drama Pilots
Betrayal
Big Thunder
Doubt
Forever
Gothica
Influence
Killer Women
Lucky 7
Murder in Manhattan
Once Upon a Time in Wonderland
Reckless
S.H.I.E.L.D.
Westside

Once again, it's hard to predict which pilots will be picked up but we can look at a network's history, identity, and needs to fill in the blanks. ABC has capitalized on family-based comedies and struck out on yuppie sitcoms like Happy Endings. With that in mind I see the following comedies getting picked up: Adopted, Back in the Game, The Goldbergs, Pulling, Spy, and Super Fun Night. On the drama side, ABC's struck it rich with female-led dramas, so I can see Betrayal, Gothica, Killer Women, Murder in Manhattan, and Westside getting picked up alongside S.H.I.E.L.D. I could also see the Once spin-off getting a series order in spite of the fact that it's way too soon for it to happen.

Possible ABS Shows for 2013-2014
20/20
Adopted
The Bachelor
Back in the Game
Betrayal
Body of Proof
Castle
Dancing with the Stars
Goldbergs, The
Gothica
Grey's Anatomy
How to Live with Your Parents for the Rest of Your Life
Killer Women 
Last Man Standing
Malibu CountryThe Middle
Modern Family
Murder in Manhattan
Nashville
Once Upon a Time
Once Upon a Time in Wonderland
Primetime
Pulling
Revenge
Scandal
Shark Tank
Spy
Suburgatory
Super Fun Night
Wife Swap
Westside

Possible ABC Schedule for 2013-2014
Sundays
8-9p: Once Upon a Time
9-10p: Revenge
10-11p: Gothica

Honestly, I was more confident about this line-up a few weeks ago before it became evident that Revenge was tanking in the ratings. I could easily see it moved to a new night in 2013, but for now I'm keeping the Sunday night anchors in place and leading into Gothica. Yes, this approach didn't work before but there's a chance that Gothica is a better complement than 666 Park Avenue was.

Mondays
8-10p: Dancing with the Stars
10-11p: Castle

I've been predicting Castle's move for years now, and ABC has yet to give another show a DWTS lead-in. Now that I have it staying put, it's going to be the year the ABC ships it to Sundays. I can just see it now.

Tuesdays
8-9p: Shark Tank
9-10p: Dancing with the Stars
10-11p: Scandal

One of the few success stories ABC can tout is how Scandal became a hit unto itself, and it should be strong enough to leave the shadow of the Shonda Rhimes mothership and take over for its predecessor (i.e. Private Practice). As for doubling down on reality TV to start the night... why not? Shark Tank's strong on Fridays, but I'm sure it could still do well on Tuesdays and could help the ailing DWTS.

Wednesdays
8-8:30p: The Middle
8:30-9p: Suburgatory
9-9:30p: Modern Family
9:30-10p: The Goldbergs
10-11p: Westside

ABC Wednesdays has become the new NBC Thursdays, and the trick now is finding the right combination of family sit-coms. The Middle's a reliable lead-off hitter with Modern Family holding down the heart of the line-up, but what to do with Suburgatory and what will go in the 9:30 spot? As much as I'd like Suburgatory to get another vote of confidence and follow Modern Family, ABC needs to find another hit and its most reliable show could help with that. From the jump, The Goldbergs has been touted as an 80's era Wonder Years and could be a natural fit on Wednesdays, and if not I'd love to see Maggie Lawson's show get a chance to shine.

Thursdays
8-9p: S.H.I.E.L.D.
9-10p: Grey's Anatomy
10-11p: Betrayal

It's no secret that Thursdays at 8 has been a black hole for ABC, so why not use Disney's biggest franchise to help prop up the night? It's seems almost too much of a no-brainer to place S.H.I.E.L.D. here, which is why I'm somewhat hesitant to do so because there's no guarantees so why waste one of the most buzzed about shows on one of the worst timeslots when Mickey can jump start a new night? In the end, I see The Avengers spin-off starting off Thursdays, but I won't be shocked if it doesn't either.

Fridays
8-8:30p: Last Man Standing
8:30-9p: Malibu Country
9-10p: Nashville
10-11p: 20/20

ABC tried to bring back TGIF, and it wasn't a smash success but it was OK by today's standards, so I can see a scenario where both Last Man Standing and Malibu Country come back. Also, Nashville wasn't a massive hit either and could pair up nicely with a more traditional set of shows leading into it. Maybe it'll be too country/red state-ish but that could work out in the end.

Mid-Season: Anything that wasn't listed in the original schedule. Duh-doy.

As always, please note that these are just predictions and should not be taken as fact... unless I'm right. Next up, CBS.

TV Upfronts: Armchair Programmer Series - FOX

Part 2 of this year's Armchair Programmer Series will take a look at FOX. Personally, I think it was an interesting season for FOX because it was able to establish a hit with The Following, but pretty much everything else failed to make an impact, and its tent poles (The X-Factor and American Idol) are not brining in the viewers like they should be. What we're left with is a network that doesn't need to start from scratch but probably should.

Officially Renewed FOX Shows
American Dad!
Bob's Burgers
Bones
Family Guy
The Following
Glee
The Mindy Project
New Girl
Raising Hope
The Simpsons
The X-Factor

Officially/Effectively Canceled/Finished FOX Shows
Ben and Kate
Fringe
The Mob Doctor

Possibly Renewed FOX Shows
American Idol
Hell's Kitchen
Kitchen Nightmares

Possibly Canceled FOX Shows
The Cleveland Show
Touch

Comedy Pilots
Brooklyn 99
Dads
Enlisted
Friends & Family
Gabriels, The
I Suck at Girls
Lifestyle Lemonaid
To My Assistant
Two Wrongs

Drama Pilots
Boomerang
Delirium
Gang Related
Human
List, The
Rake
Sleepy Hallow
Wild Blue, The

I'll say it again, it's hard to predict which pilots will be going to series but we can also take a look at the network's history and brand identity. FOX does best with animated sitcoms, character based/edgy procedurals and music shows, but it wants to expand its live-action sitcom game. The Mindy Project's far from a hit, and sadly Ben and Kate was a miss, so look for FOX to beef up its sitcom line-up. Out of the comedy pilots, I could see the following pick-ups: Dads, Enlisted, I Suck at Girls, and Two Wrongs. As for dramas, FOX maybe in the market for a House replacement as well as other procedural fare. I see the following pilots getting picked up: Gang Related, Human, The List, Rake, and Sleepy Hallow.

Possible FOX Shows for 2012-2013
American Dad!
American Idol
Bob's Burgers
Bones
Dads
Enlisted
Family Guy
The Following
Gang Related
Glee
Hell's Kitchen
Human
I Suck at Girls
Kitchen Nightmares
The List
The Mindy Project
New Girl
Raising Hope
Rake
The Simpsons
Sleepy Hallow
Two Wrongs
The X-Factor

Possible FOX Schedule for 2013-2014
Sundays
8-8:30p: The Simpsons
8:30-9p: Bob's Burgers
9-9:30p: Family Guy
9:30-10p: Dads

I know that breaking up the Animation Domination line-up sounds crazy, but it's clear that FOX wants to be in the Seth MacFarlane business, and the only place I can see Dads going is behind Family Guy due to creative synergy. It could be a break-out hit and be the foundation of a new comedy block, but for now I'm treating Dads like another MacFarlane show.

Mondays
8-9p: Bones
9-10p: Rake

Remember when everyone thought Bones would be sent off to Fridays? Well, it's one of the network's established shows and I can see it staying on Mondays until it's off the air once and for all. Since Bones is the new House, why not have the Hart Hanson veteran help out Rake.

Tuesdays
8-8:30p: Raising Hope
8:30-9p: The Mindy Project
9-10p: Glee

OK, I know that this Tuesday night line-up makes zero sense, but hear me out. The four comedy block didn't work this season, Raising Hope and Mindy will never be hits so don't deserve to ride New Girl's coattails, and Glee's established going into its fifth season. By putting these shows together on Tuesdays, FOX can now make a play for Thursdays. Sure, this turns Tuesday nights into somewhat of a wasteland, but they might as well use some vets and a first-year flop to take on The Voice.

Wednesdays
8-10p: The X-Factor

Yawn.

Thursdays
8-9p: The X-Factor
9-9:30p: New Girl
9:30-10p: I Suck at Girls

Whether shows like X-Factor and Idol can launch or help shows is debatable, but the real estate following them should be prime timeslots. Yes, they didn't help Glee, Raising Hope, or New Girl, but it's hard to write-off the importance of lead-ins. All that said, New Girl could use the additional boost that X-Factor could theoretically offer while it cements itself as one of FOX's big hitters. In turn, it could help get a new show like I Suck at Girls off the ground. Again, Mindy really didn't benefit but you never know.

Fridays
8-9p: Kitchen Nightmares
9-10p: Human

Scheduling a sci-fi show on Fridays is lazy, but it's been working for the most part, so why not keep the trend going. Touch may not have been able to meet the limited expectations, but shows like Fringe, Grimm, and Nikita to a lesser extent have been able to capitalize on their less than stellar timeslots. And throwing a new show like Human into the fray could backfire, but it has the J.J. Abrams name recognition which might be enough to make it competitive.

Mid-Season: American Dad!, American Idol, Enlisted, The Following, Gang Related, Hell's Kitchen, The List, Sleepy Hallow, and Two Wrongs

Once again, these are merely my predictions and should not be taken as fact unless I'm right. Next up: ABC.

TV Upfronts: Armchair Programmer Series - NBC

Last year, I foolishly tried to predict what the four English language networks would do prior to their official upfront presentations. Admittedly, I didn't not try to keep any kind of score because doing so would only drive me crazy, and it was all in the name of fun to begin with, so why sweat the details. With Upfronts just around the corner (week of May 13), I've decided to give it a go one more time.

For those new to this blog or have no idea what "upfronts" are, here's a little blurb I put together when I started this exercise in futility:

"Upfronts" refers to the period when the networks unveil their new programming line-ups to advertisers as a way to sell ad time. This is usually the time when fans will know if their favorite programs are coming back or not. While, the trend over the last couple of years has been for the networks to renew shows before their upfront presentations, these meetings tend to be the last word. This year's upfront presentations for the major networks are:

May 13, 2013 - NBC and FOX
May 14, 2013 - ABC
May 15, 2013 - CBS
May 16, 2013 - The CW

Unlike last year, I've decided to roll these Armchair Programmer write-ups in order of presentation date, which means NBC's up first. Over the last couple of seasons, NBC has been TV's favorite punching bag due to its abysmal ratings. Early on in 2012, it looked liked things changed for the Peacock as it could boast that it was the number one network, but their new found success was highly dependent on The Voice, Revolution, and Sunday Night Football. For some reason the network brass decided to bench the former two until March, and ratings plummeted back to Earth. That's a long-winded way of saying that NBC may not have fixed much and could be back to the drawing board for 2013-14.

Officially Renewed Shows
Chicago Fire
Football Night in America
Grimm
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
NBC Sunday Night Football
Parenthood
Revolution
The Sing-Off (winter only)
The Voice

Officially/Effectively Canceled/Finished Shows
30 Rock (final season)
Animal Practice
Do No Harm
Next Caller
The Office (final season)
Ready for Love

Possibly Renewed Shows
Betty White's Off Their Rockers
The Biggest Loser
Celebrity Apprentice
Dateline NBC
Go On
Hannibal
The New Normal
Parks and Recreation
Whitney

Possibly Canceled Shows
1600 Penn
Community
Deception
Fashion Star
Guys with Kids
Rock Center with Brian Williams
Smash
Take It All
Up All Night

Comedy Pilots
...Then Came Elvis/Family Guide
About a Boy
Assistance
Brenda Forever
Donor Party, The
Gates
Girlfriend in a Coma
Happiness
Holding Patterns
Joe, Joe & Jane
John Mulaney Show, The
MJF
Undateable
Untitled Craig Robinson Project
Untitled Jessica Simpson Project
Untitled Robert Padnick Project
Welcome to the Family

Drama Pilots
After Hours
Believe
Blacklist, The
Bloodlines
Hatfields & McCoys, The
I Am Victor
Ironside
Secret Lives of Husbands and Wives, The
Sixth Gun, The
Untitled Chicago Fire Spin-off
Untitled Rand Ravich Project
Wonderland

While it's nearly impossible to predict which pilots will go the series, you can make a guess based on a network's particular brand and needs. Comedy should be a major concern for NBC, and I can see them picking up a ton of sitcoms to help them find a new identity. Right now, I'm going with: About a Boy, Assistance, Happiness, MJF, Undateable, Craig Robinson, Welcome to the Family. On the drama side: The Blacklist, Chicago Fire spin-off, Hatfileds & McCoys, Ironside, The Secret Lives of Husbands and Wives, The Sixth Gun.

Possible NBC Shows for 2013-2014
About a Boy
Assistance
The Biggest Loser
Betty White's Off Their Rockers
The Blacklist
Celebrity Apprentice
Chicago Fire
Chicago Fire spin-off
Dateline NBC
Football Night in America
Go On
Grimm
Hannibal
Happiness
Hatfields & McCoys
Ironside
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
MJF
The New Normal
NBC Sunday Night Football
Parenthood
Parks and Recreation
Revolution
The Secret Lives of Husbands and Wives
The Sing-Off (winter only)
The Sixth Gun
Undateable
Untitled Craig Robinson Project
The Voice
Welcome to the Family
Whitney

Possible NBC Schedule for 2013-2014
Sundays
8-11p: Football

The easiest night to program. Once football's done, we'll probably see the return of reality fare (i.e. Celebrity Apprentice) and news programming, which means we could get more Rock Center even though I left it off my initial list.

Mondays
8-10p: The Voice
10-11p: Revolution

I see no reason why NBC would move The Voice at this point since it's such a hit, but what it leads into could get interesting. Common sense would dictate that the network try to launch a new drama at the 10 o'clock hour, but I think Revolution's still too dependent on big, red, swinging chairs so moving it would spell doom. My gut's telling me that Revolution will start off on Mondays but could be moved based on its ratings.

Tuesdays
8-9p: The Voice
9-9:30p: Happiness
9:30-10p: Undateable
10-11p: Parenthood

For some reason, I think it's too early for NBC to give up on expanding its comedy line-ups. Last season, The Voice helped out Go On and The New Normal (until it went on hiatus and those two shows suffered), and it's clear that they want to bring back multi-cam comedies. With Happiness, NBC gets Sean Hayes, and they get back into the Bill Lawrence business with Undateable. I don't know how those two shows will mesh, but it could work. As for Parenthood, why move it now?

Wednesdays
8-9p: Chicago Fire
9-10p: Chicago Fire spin-off
10-11p: Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

NBC should take a page out of CBS' playbook and make Wednesday nights all Dick Wolf. Even though I think it's too soon for Chicago Fire to get its own spin-off, I get the feeling NBC wants to keep Dick Wolf happy and it'll get picked up. Might as well sandwich it between his other two shows.

Thursdays
8-8:30p: The New Normal
8:30-9p: Parks & Recreation
9-9:30p: MJF
9:30-10p: Go On
10-11p: The Blacklist

One of the most stable nights in television history could be a complete crapshoot next season. I don't see NBC straying away from an all-comedy line-up, but which comedies go where could be up in the air based on what kind of brand they're going for. The shows I went with could morph from workplace comedy to extended family, which could lead to a solid night. The 10'clock drama could also be tricky mostly because NBC's pilots don't jump out at me, and The Blacklist was the only one that sounded like it could anchor a night.

Fridays
8-9p: The Sixth Gun
9-10p: Grimm
10-11p: Dateline NBC

The fact that Grimm's gotten three seasons is proof that Fridays are no longer a dead zone, and it also showed that a new series can be launched on Fridays and do relatively well. It'd make sense to keep with the sci-fi/fantasy genre and pair Grimm up with The Sixth Gun before Dateline. I also wouldn't be shocked if Grimm starts off the night, but I think NBC benefits more by letting it stay put for now.

Mid-Season: About a Boy, Assistance, Betty White's Off Their Rockers, The Biggest Loser, Celebrity Apprentice, Hannibal, Hatfields & McCoys, Ironside, Secret Lives of Husbands and Wives, The Sing-Off, Untitled Craig Robinson, Welcome to the Family, Whitney

As always, please note that these are just predictions and should not be taken as fact... unless I'm right. Next up, FOX.

The Small Screen Podcast, Episode 29: Let's Be Upfront

"The Small Screen Podcast" is back for Episode 29. This time around, Kristal and I talked about the new fall schedules, which pilots were excited for, which night of the week will be our busiest, and of course what we've been watching and looking forward to. Check out the breakdown if you want to avoid any spoilers.

Episode Breakdown

Intros: Start - 1:02

TV News: 1:03 - 4:45

• Dan Harmon out as Community showrunner

2012-2013 Fall Schedules: 4:46 - 39:09

• ABC: 5:25 - 15:00
• CBS: 15:01 - 18:06
• The CW: 18:07 - 23:45
• FOX: 23:46 - 32:26
• NBC: 32:27 - 38:35
• Wrap-Up: 38:36 - 39:09

Most Anticipated Pilots: 39:10 - 49:01

• Go On, The New Normal, Nashville and Vegas: 39:10 - 42:30
• 666 Park Avenue, The Mindy Project and Elementary: 42:31 - 49:01

Busiest Night of the Week: 49:02 - 51:33

What We're Watching (SPOILER ALERT): 51:34 - 1:04:55

• How I Met Your Mother

What We're Looking Forward To: 1:04:56 - 1:12:52

• Glee: 1:04:56 - 1:05:32
• So You Think You Can Dance: 1:05:33 - 1:12:52

Closing: 1:12:53 - End

Check out the episode below, or download it over at iTunes:

For more, follow us on Twitter:
Kristal: @kristal_bailey
Marcos: @poppas2cents
Screen Invasion: @screeninvasion
Invasion Radio: @invasionradio

My Two-Cents on the 2012-2013 Upfronts

Upfront Week's finally over, so I've decided to take a step back to reflect on what the major networks did this past two weeks.

Most Surprising Renewal: Nikita (The CW)

While I'm still a fan of Nikita, I was pretty sure that it was going to be canceled after another low-rated season, but its renewal could be a case of Fridays being both a blessing and a curse. Sure, its numbers were going to be horrible, but Friday shows tend to have lower expectations, which could have been how The CW justified bringing back our favorite assassin.

Most Disappointing Cancellation: The Finder (FOX)

I made my peace with The Finder's inevitable cancellation weeks ago, but knowing that Walter Sherman will not be back still stings. I've said it multiple times on "The Small Screen Podcast," but I'll say it again; I really want this character to live on, and if that means he's shoe-horned into Bones, then that's fine by me. That being said, the series finale was appropriate, and I'm sorta OK with that being it, but I need more Walter. I don't even need the rest. Just Walter.

Most Anticipated New Comedy: Go On (NBC)

I'm a Matthew Perry fan, so I want Go On to be successful for NBC because the world's a little bit better when he's on our screens. Now, I don't know if Go On will be the savior that the Peacock needs, but the premise sounds interesting enough, and it looks like a role tailor made for Perry. The thing is, the same could have been said about Mr. Sunshine, and the tone might be too dreary for those looking for light-hearted laughs. It also doesn't help that it's going to be on one of the most competitive nights for comedy, but more on that later.

Most Anticipated New Drama: Elementary (CBS)
OK, I'm going to be honest. The only reason I'm looking forward to Elementary is to mock it for ripping off Sherlock. Now, I'll admit that I could be surprised and the CBS version could be just as good as the BBC/PBS one, but it's highly unlikely. I'm also vaguely intrigued to see how this show justifies making Watson a female. We all know it's for unresolved sexual tension, but sometimes that's enough to keep things interesting (see Castle, Bones, Psych and on and on and on).

Least Anticipated New Comedy: The Neighbors (ABC)
ABC has the single-cam, family sit-com on lock down with its Laugh On Wednesday night block, but it's always been tricky to find the fourth piece to the puzzle. So what's the plan this year? How about giving us a show about a family moving into a suburb filled with aliens. Not other worldly humans like Suburgatory, but real extra-terrestrials. I can't believe ABC passed on Mandy Moore for this.

Least Anticipated New Drama: Mistresses (ABC)
I might be wrong, but I think I remember reading online that Mistresses will be held off until summer, so it technically should not be eligible for this post, but the trailer was truly horrendous and it made me feel dirty while watching it (there was a snippet where a woman's upset because the guy picked his wife). I seriously think it's about a club for women who sleep with other women's men. At least there's truth in advertising, but this show's obviously not meant for me.

Most Surprising New Comedy: Partners (CBS)
By "surprising," I mean a show that I had zero interest in before watching clips/trailers/previews, but was won over by something. I've soured on most of CBS' comedies (How I Met Your Mother and 2 Broke Girls), so I didn't expect much from its newest sit-com, but I found myself chuckling at the preview for Partners. Since I cannot quit HIMYM, I'm willing to give this show a few episodes to win me over.

Most Surprising New Drama: Vegas (CBS)
Another CBS show that I was mostly uninterested in until I watched the preview. I'm a sucker for westerns and gangster movies, so this should be right up my alley since it combines both, but I also find period dramas about the 60's to be mostly boring (yes, I'm including Mad Men). I'll probably check out a few episodes, which would be the first time I've made it a point to watch a CBS drama in ages, just to see what it has to offer.

Most Shocking Schedule Move: Two and a Half Men (CBS)
When you have two shows as successful as The Big Bang Theory and Two and a Half Men, logic dictates that you spread them around the schedule as a way to help prop up your line-up. Apparently, CBS felt that dominating Thursday nights is more important than spreading the wealth, so they doubled up on Chuck Lorre shows. I kind of understand the move, but I don't think 2 Broke Girls is strong enough to anchor Mondays, but we'll have to see if this ends up being a calculated risk or a huge gamble on CBS' part.

Biggest No-Brain Schedule Move: Glee (FOX)
It's quite simple when you think about it: Glee needs help since its ratings have taken a hit, The X-Factor/American Idol really haven't helped launch any new shows, and Glee's best ratings came when it had Idol as a lead-in. Moving Glee to Thursday's is win-win for FOX.

Most Logical Schedule: The CW
Say what you will about The CW, but its 2012-2013 makes the most sense from a thematic standpoint. You have your spoiled rich kids on Mondays (90210 and Gossip Girl), your cute female doctors on Tuesdays (Hart of Dixie and Emily Owens, M.D.), your old-school WB block on Wednesdays (Arrow and Supernatural), your supernatural soaps featuring brunettes on Thursdays (The Vampire Diaries and Beauty and the Beast) and everything else on Fridays (America's Next Top Model and Nikita). You have to admit, every night have a clear direction and the show's do complement one another.

Least Logical Schedule: NBC
I guess we're supposed to think that scheduling five hours on comedy on four nights was a bold move, but it's hard to wrap my head around some of the moves. The pairing of Animal Practice and Guys With Kids makes zero sense, as does the combo of Whitney and Community. If anything, they should swap partners, but I doubt NBC would want to banish a new comedy to Fridays just so it could be a better match with Whitney. NBC conceding Thursday nights also felt a bit odd since it should be the time for them to rebuild the brand, but it hasn't worked yet so I guess they're throwing in the towel.

Busiest Night of the Week: Tuesdays
For me, Tuesday nights are going to be the busiest when it comes to TV watching because NBC, FOX and ABC all decided to schedule comedy blocks containing show's I'm interested in against one another. We have Go On/The New Normal going up against New Girl/The Mindy Project and Happy Endings/Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23. While I like New Girl well enough, and I want Matthew Perry to be a hit, my heart belongs to Happy Endings, so I'll be watching ABC live and catching up on everything else later.

So there you have it; my random thoughts about what happened during this year's Upfront Week. On a whole, I have to admit that nothing really wowed me, and next season's shaping up to be somewhat of a bore, but I'll definitely be tuning in regardless.

TV Upfronts: ABC's New Shows for 2012-2013

When Scrubs moved from NBC, and I got hooked on Castle, I started watching ABC more than any other network, and the trend's continued mostly due to Happy Endings and Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23 (which are coming back!) I bring this up because for the first time in while, I don't care for any of ABC's new offerings, so the time I spend watching the Alphabet may be drastically reduced, but we'll just have to wait and see.

666 Park Avenue

So, it's a supernatural soap opera in a haunted apartment building? No thanks.

The Family Tools

I did find myself laughing a few times during the trailer, but this show's destined for a short lifespan since Kyle Bornheimer's involved. Poor guy can't catch a break.

How to Live with Your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life)

I'm a big Sarah Chalke fan (except for when she's dating Ted or Bobby or the guy who bangs pies), so I'll probably check out a few episodes of How to Live With Your Parents. It feels very on-brand for ABC, but I'm curious about why it's going to be on Tuesdays instead of Wednesdays.

Last Resort

You'd think I'd be all about a show about nuclear submarines starting its own nation, but I'm really not. I just have to come to terms with the fact that Shawn Ryan doesn't make shows that are targeted at me as a viewer.

Malibu Country

I'm glad that ABC's bringing back a lighter version of TGIF since traditional, multi-cam, family sit-coms are rare, but that doesn't mean I'm going to watch it. It's safe to say that I'll probably be skipping Malibu Country (even though I might still watch Last Man Standing.)

Nashville

This is probably the only new ABC show that interests me, mostly because Nashville looks like what Smash should have3 been. If I can give the latter an entire 15 episodes, then I'm sure I can give Nashville a few shots.

The Neighbors

This is the show that's getting the plumb post-Modern Family spot? Seriously? Now, I know that I should reserve judgment until I actually see an episode or two, but really?

Red Window

I still have no idea what this show's about. Skip.

There's also Zero Hour, but for some reason ABC's made the trailer private, so I couldn't post it here. I will if it becomes available.

TV Upfronts: The CW's 2012-2013 Fall Schedule

Upfront Week wrapped up with The CW announcing its 2012-2013 schedule, and from the looks of it Supernatural fans have a lot to thankful for as it gets shifted out of the Friday death slot (despite the fact that it did fairly well there). Also, The CW will be rolling out its new slate of shows in October instead of September which could work in its benefit ... in theory. Other than that, it's a pretty straight forward line-up from the networklet.

2012-2013 Fall Line-up (NOTE: New shows are in UPPER CASE and times are Eastern Standard)

Mondays
8-9p: 90210
9-10p: Gossip Girl

Initial Thoughts: OK, The CW made some other changes besides just moving Supernatural out of Fridays. Gossip Girl's been in the 8pm on Mondays spot since 2008, so the fact that it's being pushed back to 9pm for its final season feels like its more for The Carrie Diaries' benefit since it will take over at mid-season. 90210's also been a Tuesday night staple, so its move to Mondays seems like a tactical move to help launch the aforementioned Sex and the City prequel.

Tuesdays
8-9p: Hart of Dixie
9-10p: EMILY OWENS, M.D.

Initial Thoughts: Lady doctors are going to be taking over The CW's Tuesday nights as the new Emily Owens, M.D. (formally known as First Cut) teams up with Hart of Dixie, which makes a lot of sense, but you have to wonder if they are TOO similar. I'm all for tonal consistency, but pairing up shows that also have similar subject matters could be hit or miss.

Wednesdays
8-9p: ARROW
9-10p: Supernatural

Initial Thoughts: For years, the combination of Smallville and Supernatural was one of the most consistent for The WB/The CW, so it's not a shocker that Arrow will be joining SPN on Wednesday nights. Let's just hope the latter proves that it's worthy of its new home.

Thursdays
8-9p: The Vampire Diaries
9-10p: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Initial Thoughts: It's logical that The CW would use its flagship show to launch new ones, but it hasn't been able to find anything that could hold on to The Vampire Dairies' audience. Nikita and The Secret Circle weren't able to capitalize on their lead-in, but maybe Beauty and the Beast will be able to break the trend.

Fridays
8-9p: America's Next Top Model
9-10p: Nikita

Initial Thoughts: Maybe if I actually watched Top Model, I'd be more inclined to comment on its move to Fridays, but I don't so I'm not. It does make a bit of sense though since reality shows cost less than scripted, so a dip in ratings won't kill ANTM, but moving your signature reality program to the "death slot" is also a bit odd. Honestly, I'm just glad Nikita's back, but it's not moved into an even more competitive hour as it takes on Fringe and Grimm.

Mid-Season: The Carrie Diaries an Cult

For the most part, The CW's new schedule makes sense, but I'm not it's going to be enough to fix the network's ratings issues. Then again, I don't know what will help The CW at this point.

TV Upfronts: CBS' 2012-2013 Fall Schedule

When you're the most-watched U.S. network, you have the luxury of coasting along and not shaking things up which was the exact approach CBS took when putting together its 2012-2013 schedule. The biggest bit of news had to do with 2 Broke Girls, Two and a Half Men and The Mentalist both getting new homes, but even those moves lacked any real pizzazz or risk.

2012-2013 Fall Line-up (NOTE: New shows are in UPPER CASE and times are Eastern Standard)

Mondays
8-8:30p: How I Met Your Mother
8:30-9p: PARTNERS
9-9:30p: 2 Broke Girls
9:30-10p: Mike & Molly
10-11p: Hawaii Five-0

Initial Thoughts: Mondays have become to CBS what Thursdays used to be for NBC, so the fact that the comedy line-up stayed in tack is by no means a shock. What is interesting is Two and a Half Men being shipped to another night and 2 Broke Girls taking its place. I understand that 2BG was last year's comedy darling for the network, but it's still not proven enough to take over the mantel. I guess we'll just have to wait and see if this ends up being a brilliant move by CBS are a bust.

Tuesdays
8-9p: NCIS
9-10p: NCIS: Los Angeles
10-11p: VEGAS

Initial Thoughts: Yawn! The NCIS franchise has become the new crown jewel of CBS, so there was no chance the two shows would be moving, and sticking Vegas at the 10 o'clock hour's really not all that exciting either since it's a hole that needed to be filled.

Wednesdays
8-9p: Survivor
9-10p: Criminal Minds
10-11p: CSI: Crime Scene Investigation

Initial Thoughts: Double yawn since this is the exact same schedule CBS has right now. I was sure CSI: Original Recipe would have been shipped off to a new night (Fridays) to make run for a new drama, but I guess CBS figured things were just fine on Wednesday nights.

Thursdays
8-8:30p: The Big Bang Theory
8:30-9p: Two and a Half Men
9-10p: Person of Interest
10-11p: ELEMENTARY

Initial Thoughts: Pretty much everyone thought that CBS would expand its Thursday night comedy block so it could crush NBC once and for all, so I'm a little surprised that the Eye's just sticking to an hour. Big Bang staying put makes sense, but having it lead into Two and a Half Men says more about the latter than anything else. It used to be this network's bread and butter, and now it needs to be propped up by its little brother. Since Person of Interest was one of the few dramatic hits of last season, I was sure that it would get a better time slot, but it looks like CBS is banking on Elementary to be a more accessible hit.

Fridays
8-9p: CSI: NY
9-10p: MADE IN JERSEY
10-11p: Blue Bloods

Initial Thoughts: Honesty, I don't have much to say about this night. I did expect CBS to put some shows out to pasture on Fridays (CSI and Good Wife), but once again the network didn't feel the need to shake things up.

Saturdays
8-11p: Crimetime Saturday

Sundays
7-8p: 60 Minutes
8-9p: The Amazing Race
9-10p: The Good Wife
10-11p: The Mentalist

Initial Thoughts: I did not see The Mentalist to Sundays coming because I figured it still had some life, and Sundays tend to be a problematic night for CBS. Again, I was sure The Good Wife was going to be shipped off to Fridays, so I'm a little surprised that its staying put although I shouldn't be.

Mid-Season: Friend Me, Golden Boy, The Job and Undercover Boss

There's a reason why I don't watch a ton of CBS. Its shows tend to be to formulaic and now their schedule reflects the same monotony, but you really can't blame the Eye for playing it safe because it's worked so well up to date.

TV Upfronts: ABC's 2012-2012 Fall Schedule

ABC was next to announce its schedule for 2012-2013, and at least it took some more risks than FOX did yesterday. We finally get the pairing of Happy Endings and Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23 but in a somewhat odd location, and the Alphabet made some moves in an attempt to completely dominate Sunday nights.

2012-2013 Fall Line-up (NOTE: New shows are in UPPER CASE and times are Eastern Standard)

Mondays
8-10p: Dancing with the Stars
10-11p: Castle

Initial Thoughts: I was positive that this would be the year ABC moved Castle to another night so it could use DWTS to help launch other shows, but it looks like that will never happen. Don't get me wrong, I'm still a fan of Castle and happy it's getting support from the network, but it's time to try something new on Mondays at 10pm.

Tuesdays
8-9p: Dancing with the Stars Results
9-9:30p: Happy Endings
9:30-10p: Don't Trust the B---- in Apartment 23
10-11p: Private Practice

Initial Thoughts: Not so surprising details: teaming up Happy Endings and Apt. 23 on their own night away from the family block. Somewhat surprising details: Giving them a DWTS lead-in AND pitting them against New Girl/Mindy Project and Go On/The New Normal. Talk about mixed messages, ABC.

Wednesdays
8-8:30p: The Middle
8:30-9p: Suburgatory
9-9:30p: Modern Family
9:30-10p: THE NEIGHBORS
10-11p: NASHVILLE

Initial Thoughts: Honestly, I think it's a mistake to keep Suburgatory at 8:30 instead of moving it to the cushier post-Modern Family spot where it could grow. I guess there's something to say about consistency, yet ABC decided to move one of its few drama hits to a completely new night. Again with the mixed messages. Another aside: I don't understand why they'd use MF to launch a sitcom about aliens (sure families of aliens) instead of the more accessible  How to Live with Your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life).

Thursdays
8-9p: LAST RESORT
9-10p: Grey's Anatomy
10-11p: Scandal

Initial Thoughts: Part of me wonders if ABC has a total lack of faith in Last Resort based on its location on the schedule. For the last few seasons, Thursdays at 8 has been a black hole for ABC (FlashForward, My Generation, Charlie's Angels), so that's already a red-flag. Then you add the fact that it sticks out like a sore thumb. Sorry, but a show about a rogue nuclear submarine doesn't mesh well with any Shonda Rhimes vehicle. I'm interested to see how Last Resort performs, but Shawn Ryan could got 0 for 3 thanks to ABC.

Fridays
8-9p: Shark Tank
9-10p: Primetime: What Would You Do?
10-11p: 20/20

Starting in November
8-8:30p: Last Man Standing
8:30-9p: Malibu Country
9-10p: Shark Tank
10-11p: Primetime: What Would You Do?

Initial Thoughts: Yes, ABC Fridays look dreadfully boring, but things will get more interesting in November when Last Man Standing and Malibu Country debut. I'm all for a new TGIF, so I want LMS and Malibu to do well even if I don't watch them, and they very well could since they'll be going up against Touch and Whitney/Community. CBS will be the deciding factor.

Saturdays
8-End: Saturday Night College Football

Initial Thoughts: Let's just skip to Sundays.

Sundays
7-8p: America's Funniest Home Videos
8-9p: Once Upon a Time
9-10p: Revenge
10-11p: 666 PARK AVENUE

Initial Thoughts: And we finally get to ABC's plot to take over Sunday nights as it pairs up its two biggest sophomore successes. I can kind of understand moving Revenge to Sundays since ABC doesn't have a natural heir apparent to Desperate Housewives, but why couldn't they spread the wealth instead of piling everything on Sundays? Plus, Revenge doesn't seem like a natural fit with OUAT and 666, but whatever. Genre consistency's overrated in this day and age anyway.

Mid-Season: Body of Proof, Family Tools, How to Live with Your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life), Mistresses, Red Window, Wife Swap and Zero Hour.

While some of ABC's moves have me scratching my head, I do have to applaud them for taking some bigger risks than it would have done in the past. This schedule's a pretty clear sign that ABC's ready to make a comeback, so kudos.