My Fall Television Schedule (2012 - 2013): My Televsion Year in Restrospect

With the fall television season upon us I'll soon be posting up My Fall Television Schedule for the 2013 - 2014 season, but first I thought it would be fun to take a look back at the past year of television. You can check out my proposed plans for my 2012 - 2013 season here.

Sitcoms are shows that easily fall by the wayside for me. Unless I really enjoy them, they're going to come off of my television schedule out of necessity. I had planned to start watching How I Met Your Mother, which is now heading into its ninth and final season, after catching majority of the last half of Season 8. However, it didn't stick. I had four pretty solid comedies too keep me satisfied throughout last season in Happy Endings, The Big Bang Theory, 30 Rock & New Girl, so How I Met Your Mother wasn't a necessity. And neither was NBC's new Will & Grace-esque comedy Partners either apparently, I didn't watch like I said I would, and apparently no one else did either with NBC cancelling the series after six episodes. This was despite the show being placed in the pretty cushy timeslot between How I Met Your Mother and 2 Broke Girls at 8.30 on Mondays. Also on Monday's was the surprise post-apocalyptic hit Revolution, it being the first new show of the season to be renewed after airing only three episodes. It also had a cushy timeslot behind The Voice at 10.00, and it will be interesting to see how its ratings go with its drastic move to Wednesdays at 8.00 this season. I recorded the first six or seven episodes of Revolution before I started watching any, and ironically I probably only watched three until I stopped. I considered returning to the show, and still do, but other than the cliff-hangers I found majority of it to be rather dull. It's also been critically panned by many, and while this doesn't inspire to watch Revolution as a good show, it does inspire to watch it as a train-wreck you can't look away from, which is why I'm still considering catching up. I wont be able to do this during this season though, so I'll have to wait and see whether things improve for the show in the meantime. Similar critical distain was given to The Following, which I've recorded all of, but now am very uncertain as to whether or not I should watch. I also tried out Deception but left it after three episodes, and it was cancelled at the end of its 13 episode run.

On Tuesdays New Girl really hit its stride, and surprisingly Jake Johnson stole the show as lazy yet lovable Nick Miller throughout the season. The verdict's still out on whether or not the show can make Nick and Jess work as a couple for the long-term, but I'll be tuning in to find out. I still can't help but hate New Girl a little though, since Happy Endings was running at the same 9.00 timeslot on ABC, but was quickly shuffled off to die on Friday nights after its return from mid-season break. While I don't think the third and now final season was at good as its season (its reliance on the ridiculous and over-the-top storylines for humour is a turn-off for me with comedies), it was still easily the best comedy on television, and it's my hardest felt cancellation from last season. I considered also watching the comedy paired with Happy Endings, Don't Trust the Bitch in Apartment 23, along with checking out a whole host of new comedies that premiered on Tuesday last season, like Go On and The New Normal in an attempt to find a new comedy. Ultimately I'm glad I didn't with all of these being cancelled. I also recorded all of Cult which aired at 9.00 on The CW during mid-season after the cancellation of Emily Owens, M.D., but that too is now cancelled and I haven't watched a single episode.

Supernatural remained solid viewing on Wednesdays during its eighth season, and many believed it was better than Season 7. The show mostly becomes an interchangeable monster-of-the week blur to me, but there were some intriguing story arcs like Dean's return and escape from purgatory, The Men of Letters, and of course, the highly dramatic Trials Sam undertook (although lets all just forget about his horrible flashbacks to when Dean was away). Nashville was prime to become the best new show for me early in the season, but by its finale it had become so convulsed and melodramatic that I'm worried I'll have to start watching it the way I watch Revenge, for a good laugh. Arrow did exceptionally well for The CW at 8.00 before Supernatural, and I still want to watch it eventually, but as with comedies, unfortunately CW fair hasn't yet earned the respect of necessary viewing (except maybe Nikita), but hopefully their promising pilot season this year can continue to change that.

We said goodbye to 30 Rock on Thursday's last season, and while there were some memorable moments throughout its final 13 episode seventh season run (Hazel really came into her own), the show ultimately ended on a rather sentimental note, which felt quite out of character for such a normally untraditional show. While I've said that comedies aren't a necessary watch, The Big Bang Theory really has come to deserve it's title as the best comedy on television. I know there are a lot of people who don't like it compared to some of the more quirkier and out there comedies (like Arrested Development or Community, which it was up against in the 8.00 timeslot), but for a traditional sitcom, laugh track included, The Big Bang Theory is a very good show. The Vampire Diaries may have lost some of its bite (sorry, but it works), but is it highly serialised, so I'm willing to stick with it through is numerous and very long dry-spells with several characters and storylines in anticipation for the big mythology aspect of the show. ABC's high concept drama Last Resort was my most anticipated new show of last season, but I only tuned into four or so episodes myself before giving up, and ABC gave up too, it being cancelled after six episodes, the remaining ones still airing. The timeslot and high concept probably didn't help the show, but for me, it just took itself too seriously, and needed some humour to break up the drama that quickly became incessantly tedious. I was initially weary to check out Hannibal, despite it being developed by Bryan Fuller. By mid-season though, nothing was on, and boy am I glad I tuned it. With its great acting and beautiful cinematography, this slick psychological thriller turned into the best new network show of the season. As I was last year, I'm still finding the time to be inspired to catch up on Scandal and Person of Interest, with both doing extremely well with the amount of buzz and critical acclaim they received last season.

Fringe finished is unbelievable five season run on Fridays. While die-hard will no doubt be happy with the conclusion of the series, the vast change in setting and the relationships shared between the characters made it difficult for me to appreciate the season, despite its heavy mythology. I followed Happy Endings to Friday, which I'm still so so sad about, and continued to record Cult when it was also shuffled here before cancellation despite not watching it. I still haven't caught up on Grimm, and it falls low on the list on the shows I want to catch up on. I'm now just waiting for Nikita to end to buy the DVD boxset so that I can consume this great show all at once, although I'm a little disappointed that I didn't watch it while it aired.

On Sundays Revenge continued to do its thing. Despite some people thinking its become too convoluted, Revenge was always like this, only now it's more obvious. However, when it's not having its well dressed utter ridiculous dialogue at one another, Revenge can be an enthralling drama, and I'm willing to stick with it through all the bad. I mean, did you see that finale? 666 Park Avenue was actually quite enjoyable, but after it was cancelled before its mid-season break after airing seven episodes, but I wasn't inspired enough to finish watching once I knew it wouldn't be back. I wasn't inspired to check out Once Upon A Time either, and now I'm wondering if I ever will be. I'm in the same situation with The Good Wife as I am with Nikita, the show is heading into its fifth season, and doesn't look like it has long left, so maybe I'll just hold out until it finished before watching.

There were two late mid-season shows this year, Under The Dome and Siberia, which I also hoped to check out. Under The Dome, while ridiculous, has an entertaining mythology, and the show doesn't really deserve all the hate its receiving from critics. I'm yet to watch an episode of Siberia, but I have recorded it thus far.

Onto cable, and of course, majority of them also air on Sunday's. Boardwalk Empire withstood the loss of prominent character Jimmy Darmody at the end of season two and produced an entertaining third season, and season four looks set to do the same. Dexter's seventh season was a spectacular resurgence for the show, but unfortunately critics and fans alike have panned its eighth and final season, which will air on Sunday. The Walking Dead had its moments, but ultimately had difficulty maintaining momentum splitting its time between the prison and Woodbury throughout its third season, resulting it quite a bit of filler. While Homeland's second season, particularly its second half with the conclusion of the Abu Nazir storyline, received mixed responses, I loved it, and cannot wait for the new season to start in a couple of weeks. Breaking Bad showcased itself as one of the most talked about shows of all time, and while I have a problem with the change of tone of previous seasons in 5A, 5B has done nothing but deliver and I'm expecting a spectacular finale from this show.

Other shows on cable that I watched this year included American Horror Story (it had a strong season but fell short in its last couple of episodes), Californciation (the season focus on the rock and roll music industry was entertaining, but the characters and their relationships have gotten stale). I caught up on Awkward before the start of it's third season, and am interested to see where it's heading in the second half. British import Doctor Who is slugging along as a tedious pace despite its out-there storylines, while Ray Donovan is probably my favourite new cable show of the season, with a good balance between Ray professional and family life and great acting. Bates Motel, The Bridge, Twisted, and Defiance were all shows I watched a couple of episodes of but didn't feel the need to finish watching them. And I haven't got to Low Winter Sun yet.

Playing catch up I've watched the first season of Pretty Little Liars, but am struggling knowing that I'm no where near finding out the identity of A. I've watched the first season, and half of the second season of Parks & Recreation in an attempt to fill a solid comedy gap left by Happy Endings and 30 Rock, and while not as good as those, it has its charm. I'm also about to start watching The Newsroom after watching part of a season one episode with a friend and loving every minute of it.

Television isn't just on your TV anymore either, and I tried to check out majority of Netflix's new original programming to see how it'd fair. House of Cards was decent, but wasn't overwhelmingly good for me, and Hemlock Grove, despite being very much my genre, has failed to convince me to watch the first episode. Orange is the New Black, however, is most definitely the best new show of the year, despite it not even airing on television.

So there you have it, my 2012 - 2013 year of television in review. Of the nine new shows I planned to watch at the beginning of the season four were cancelled, 666 Park Avenue, Cult, Deception, and  Last Resort. Of the shows I already watched 30 Rock, Breaking Bad, Dexter, Fringe, and Happy Endings all ended all were cancelled. So how was everyone else's year? Found a new favourite? Disappointed about an undeserved cancellation? Let me know, and here's to the next year of television watching.

My Fall Television Schedule

So today ABC released the premiere dates for its fall schedule this year. Now I finally have an idea of what my purposed television schedule will look like, and I am simultaneously both very excited and horrified. Excited that some of my favourite shows are returning (like Boardwalk Empire and 30 Rock) and that I finally get to check out some of my most anticipated new shows that I hope will become my favourites (like Nashville and Revolution). Horrified because I don't think I've ever tried to watch so much television in my life. I've only just gotten into downloading and this is my first 'season' in which I'll actively try and keep up with shows that are airing in the US instead of waiting for them to air here in Australia. Further horrified because, by looking at my proposed fall television schedule I already know several of these shows are going to fall by the wayside and that I'll have to watch them at a later date, or god forbid, drop them entirely off my 'to watch' list. My difficulties are different to those of most in that it's not about how much program are on at once, or how much space I have on my DVR, more so what will I have time to download and watch every week. Anyway, here's what my schedule looks like at the moment.

MONDAY:

Timeslot:                      Television Program                  Network          Premiere Date:
8.00pm - 8.30pm:           How I Met Your Mother           (CBS)               24/ 9
8.30pm - 9.00pm:           Partners (New Show)               (CBS)               24/9
10.00pm - 11.00pm        Revolution (New Show)           (NBC)              17/9

Mondays fairly easy. I already know I probably won't watch Partners, but it's the only new comedy that I think I might enjoy, so I'll at least try and check it out. If I lived in America I would just keep watching after How I Met Your Mother, but because I have to download it and can see myself not bothering. I only recently started watching How I Met Your Mother, and again, I'm not so worried about missing comedies, so I'm happy to wait until this airs in Australia rather than downloading it. I'm definitely watching Revolution though, one of my most anticipated new shows.

TUESDAY:

Timeslot:                      Television Program                  Network          Premiere Date:
9.00pm - 9.30pm:           Happy Endings                          (ABC)              23/10
9.00pm - 9.30pm:           New Girl                                      (Fox)                25/9

Tuesday looks to be the easiest night of the week for me. I definitely watching Happy Endings, and while I like New Girl, I'm happy for that to wait and air here in Australia. That being said, I still have plans to catch up on Don't Trust the Bitch in Apartment 23, and if I like that, I'll add it to the list. Similarly, I've always wanted to get into Private Practice, and with this season likely to be it's last I might consider checking it out. Furthermore, there's heaps on new comedies premiering on Tuesday nights, six if I count correctly, and since I haven't been hooked by any comedies in recent times if I here consistently good reviews about any of these I might start watching.

WEDNESDAY:

Timeslot                        Television Program                  Network          Premiere Date
9.00pm - 10.00pm:          Supernatural                             (CW)                3/10
10.00pm - 11.00pm:        Nashville (New Show)             (ABC)              10/10

Wednesday is a fairly easy night, too. I'm definitely watching Nashville, and I'm fairly certain I'll keep up to date with Supernatural providing I don't become overloaded with other stuff to watch. Arrow is getting quite a lot of hype recently though, and I'm afraid I'm going to have to add that to my list. And don't judge me, but I'm also quite curious to see how The Neighbors will turn out.

THURSDAY:

Timeslot                       Television Program                   Network          Premiere Date
8.00pm - 8.30pm:          30 Rock                                        (NBC)               4/10 
8.00pm - 8.30pm:          The Big Bang Theory                 (CBS)                27/ 9
8.00pm - 9.00pm:          Last Resort (New Show)            (ABC)               27/9
8.00pm - 9.00pm:          The Vampire Diaries                  (CW)                11/10

Here's where things start to get interesting. Not only have I got four shows on one night, they're all on at the same time (sometimes I am lucky to live in Australia). I'm definitely watching 30 Rock for it's final season, and Last Resort is one of my most anticipated new shows. I'd like to watch The Vampire Diaries and The Big Bang Theory too, but if it all gets to much, I'll wait until I have some more time for The Vampire Diaries, and just wait for The Big Bang Theory to air in Australia. Unfortunately, Thursday is also the day of shows I've been wanting to watch for a while but haven't gotten around to. I'm just about to finish Scandal, and I had planned to catch up on Person of Interest. Similarly to its spin-off Private Practice, I've been meaning to watch Grey's Anatomy too. I don't think I'll get around to any of these though.

FRIDAY:

Timeslot                       Television Program                    Network          Premiere Date
9.00pm - 10.00pm:         Fringe                                          (Fox)                  28/9

Friday seems easy enough, but I'm fairly certain that I'll also be adding either Nikita or Grimm, or both, to this list considering I have their entire first seasons taking up space on my DVR, so they desperately need watching.

SATURDAY:

Maybe I could go outside and have a life or something? I dunno, it better be full of interesting characters and past-paced plots.

SUNDAY:

Timeslot                      Television Program                        Network         Premiere Date
9.00pm - 10.00pm:        Boardwalk Empire                         (HBO)             16/9
9.00pm - 10.00pm:        Dexter                                               (Showtime)     30/9
9.00pm - 10.00pm:        Revenge                                            (ABC)             30/9
9.00pm - 10.00pm:        The Walking Dead                         (AMC)            14/10
10.00pm - 11.00pm:      666 Park Avenue (New Show)     (ABC)             30/9
10.00pm - 11.00pm:      Homeland                                        (Showtime)     30/9

Where to begin on what most people consider to be the best night of TV in recent years? Reading through the days I could understand why some viewers may have thought I was overreacting with the amount of television I have to watch, but as you can see, Sunday is the major problem. Unlike other days where I've considered watching a show later or dropping it, that's not really an option here. Cable shows take even longer to reach Australian shores than network ones, and all of these are critically acclaimed and are heavily discussed online, so if I watch them later, chance are I would have been spoiled by the time I got to them. Boardwalk Empire, Dexter and The Walking Dead are a must. I've got friends that watch the, and they're discussed on much online that I can't afford to miss them. I enjoy Homeland, but I'm happy to watch that later. As for Revenge, if it gets to the point where I have to drop it I will, and the verdict's out on 666 Park Avenue until I've actually seen a couple of episode. Furthermore, Sunday nights has The Good Wife and Once Upon A Time, another two popular and well-received shows that I've been desperate to catch up on and just haven't found the time. And don't get me started on Fox's animation block. I enjoy The Simpsons, Family Guy, and American Dad, but for the sack of my sanity I'm going to have to pass.

For a full list of the main television networks schedule check out this Wikipedia page:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2012%E2%80%9313_United_States_network_television_schedule

For a full list of all the main television networks premiere dates check you should check out tv.com, and if you haven't already you should make your own fall television schedule lineup here (it's fun and helpful):
http://www.tv.com/features/upfronts-2012/

So there you have it folks. I plan to watch 17 television shows a week (Lord give me strength), at a total of 15 hours. And if you managed to read through everything, there's about another 14 shows waiting in the wings that I would like to watch at some point. It's impossible, I know, so for the time being I'll try to lower it down to the ten shows I will watch this coming season:

Boardwalk Empire

The Walking Dead

Nashville

30 Rock

Happy Endings

Revolution

Last Resort

Dexter

666 Park Avenue

Supernatural

That being said shows like 30 Rock and Fringe only have shortened thirteen episode final seasons, and all the cable shows generally only go for twelve episodes. Obviously the shows don't all start airing at the same time either, the first show starting being Boardwalk Empire (16/9) and the last being Happy Endings (23/10). Plus there's always a high chance that new shows I watch will get cancelled... so maybe once all that happens I'll be able to cram some more hours of TV in, if I'm not brain dead by then.

Give yourself a part on the back if you read through all of this, I very much appreciate you taking the time to do so. So what do you plan to watch this fall? Any painful clashes, or are all your favourite shows on exactly when you want them to be? Let me know, I'd love to here them.

A Look AT The CW's New Dramas (2012 - 2013)

Arrow

The CW's pitch: After a violent shipwreck, billionaire playboy Oliver Queen was missing and presumed dead for five years before being discovered alive on a remote island in the Pacific. When he returns home to Starling City, his devoted mother Moira, much-beloved sister Thea, and best friend Tommy welcome him home, but they sense Oliver has been changed by his ordeal on the island. While Oliver hides the truth about the man he's become, he desperately wants to make amends for the actions he took as the boy he was. Most particularly, he seeks reconciliation with his former girlfriend, Laurel Lance. As Oliver reconnects with those closest to him, he secretly creates the persona of Arrow—a vigilante—to right the wrongs of his family, fight the ills of society, and restore Starling City to its former glory. By day, Oliver plays the role of a wealthy, carefree and careless philanderer he used to be—flanked by his devoted chauffeur/bodyguard, John Diggle—while carefully concealing the secret identity he turns to under cover of darkness. However, Laurel's father, Detective Quentin Lance, is determined to arrest the vigilante operating in his city. Meanwhile, Oliver's own mother, Moira, knows much more about the deadly shipwreck than she has let on—and is more ruthless than he could ever imagine.

My Thoughts: There's not much to go on here, and viligante justice is always interesting, but will this just be an attempt to replicate Smallville's success? I don't think I'll be watching.

Beauty and the Beast

The CW's pitch: Detective Catherine Chandler is a smart, no-nonsense homicide detective. Several years earlier, Catherine witnessed the murder of her mother at the hands of two gunmen. Catherine would have been killed too, but someone—or something—saved her. No one has ever believed her, but she knows it wasn't an animal that attacked the assassins...it was human. Years have passed, and Catherine is a strong, confident, capable police officer, working alongside her equally talented partner, Tess. While investigating a murder, Catherine discovers a clue that leads her to a handsome doctor named Vincent Keller, who was reportedly killed by enemy fire while serving in Afghanistan in 2002. Catherine learns that Vincent is actually still alive and that it was he who saved her many years before. For mysterious reasons that have forced him to live outside of traditional society, Vincent has been in hiding for the past 10 years to guard his secret—when he is enraged, he becomes a terrifying beast, unable to control his super-strength and heightened senses. Catherine agrees to protect his identity in return for any insight he may have into her mother's murder. Thus begins a complex relationship between Catherine and Vincent, who are powerfully drawn to each other yet understand that their connection is extremely dangerous for both of them.

My Thoughts: Another attempt to contemporise old fairy tales with a gritty urban setting. It might be okay, but I won't be watching.

Emily Owens, M.D.

The CW's pitch: At long last, Emily Owens feels like she is an actual grown-up. She can finally put her high school days as the geeky-girl-with-flop-sweats behind her; she's graduated from medical school and is now a first-year intern at Denver Memorial Hospital, where she'll have the chance to work with world-famous cardiologist Dr. Gina Beckett—and where, not-so-coincidentally, her med-school crush Will Rider is also an intern. So why does everyone keep warning her that the hospital is just like high school? Emily soon finds out the hard way—her high school nemesis, the gorgeous, popular Cassandra Kopelson, is also just starting out at Denver Memorial, and it seems like they're rivals all over again—not only as surgical interns, but for Will's attention. Fellow intern Tyra Granger warns Emily that the cliques at Denver Memorial are all too familiar: the jocks have become orthopedic surgeons; the mean girls are in plastics; the rebels are in the ER, and Tyra has her own awkward place as the principal's kid—her father is the chief resident. Emily's the new kid all over again, and it's just as awkward as high school. Only this time around, Emily will have to balance the personal and emotional turmoil of social politics with the high-stakes world of life-and-death medical decisions. At least she has fellow intern Tyra and nerdy-but-cute resident Micah, to count on as friends. Emily is growing to realize that although she may be a geek, she may also grow to be a great doctor, flop sweats and all.

My Thoughts: Emily's inner-monologue annoys me already, and I'm not sure how much awkward fish-out-of-water fare I can handle in a medical drama. I won't be watching.

When The CW releases a trailer for its other dramas, Cult and The Carrie Diaries, which are set to debut mid season, I will post my thoughts here.

A Look At Fox's New Comedies (2012 - 2013)

Ben & Kate

Fox's pitch: Ben and Kate, the heartwarming new sibling comedy created by Dana Fox (What Happens In Vegas) and directed by Jake Kasdan (Bad Teacher), debuts this fall. Starring newcomer Dakota Johnson and Nat Faxon (Bad Teacher, Academy Award-winning co-screenwriter of The Descendants), the comedy follows a pair of odd-couple siblings—one, an overly responsible single mom; the other, an exuberant kid-at-heart—and their friends as they push each other out of their comfort zones and into real life.

My Thoughts: Faxon's lovable-buffoon is overplayed, and I don't much care having to watch him get into funny situations each week while his forever embarrassed sister helps him out of them. I won't be watching.

The Goodwin Games

Fox's pitch: The Goodwin Games, the inventive new comedy from the executive producers of How I Met Your Mother, Carter Bays, Craig Thomas, and Chris Harris, is slated for midseason. Starring Scott Foley (Grey's Anatomy, Felicity), Becki Newton (Ugly Betty) and Jake Lacy (Better With You), the family comedy tells the story of three estranged siblings who return home after the loss of their beloved father (guest-star Beau Bridges, The Descendants), and unexpectedly find themselves poised to inherit more than $20 million—if, and only if, they can adhere to their late father's trivial wishes.

My Thoughts: While the premise seems a little far-fetched, there's enough entertaining characters here too overshadow that. I'll check it out.

The Mindy Project

Fox's pitch: Created by Emmy-nominated writer/producer and New York Times best-selling author Mindy Kaling (The Office) and starring Kaling, Chris Messina (Damages), Anna Camp (The Good Wife) and newcomer Ed Weeks, The Mindy Project features Kaling as a skilled OB/GYN navigating the tricky waters of both her personal and professional life, as she pursues her dreams of becoming the perfect woman, finding the perfect man, and getting her perfect romantic comedy ending.

My Thoughts: Mindy's not necessarily a likable lead, but in this case it seems its because she's more of a three-dimensional character. I could do without the medical backdrop. I might check it out.

A Look At Fox's New Dramas (2012 - 2013)

The Following

Fox's pitch: Edge-of-your-seat thriller The Following, created by Kevin Williamson (Dawson's Creek, Scream franchise) and starring Golden Globe Award-winning Kevin Bacon (X-Men, Frost/Nixon) and James Purefoy (Rome), premieres in midseason. The spellbinding and intense drama follows an ex-FBI agent (Bacon) called out of retirement to track down a devious and diabolical serial killer (Purefoy), the mastermind behind a nationwide string of murders.

My Thoughts: This looks dark, and there's obviously the baseline to build an intense relationship between Bacon and Purefoy's characters, but can a serial crime show withstand the distance? I might watch, but unlikely.

The Mob Doctor

Fox's pitch: The compelling new drama The Mob Doctor will debut this fall. Executive-produced by Josh Berman (Bones, CSI) and Rob Wright (Crossing Jordan), the engrossing character drama stars Jordana Spiro (My Boys) as a brilliant, life-saving surgeon caught in a complex web between her promising medical career and her family's debt to Chicago's Southside mob.

My Thoughts: This looks intense, with a lot of ethical and morals issues at play which is also good. Will be interesting to see where it goes from the pilot though, and it looks as if it will slip into a procedural. I won't be watching.

A Look At NBC's New Dramas (2012 - 2013)

Chicago Fire

NBC's pitch: No job is more stressful, dangerous or exhilarating than those of the firefighters, rescue squad and paramedics of Chicago Firehouse 51. These are America's everyday heroes—the courageous men and women who forge headfirst into danger when everyone else is running the other way. But the enormous responsibilities of the job also take a personal toll. Big reputations and hefty egos, coupled with the pressure to perform and make split-second decisions, are bound to put squad members at odds. When a tragedy claims one of their own, there's plenty of guilt and blame to go around. In the middle of a divorce, Lt. Matthew Casey (Jesse Spencer, House) tries to go about business as usual but can't help butting heads with the brash Lt. Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney, The Vampire Diaries) of the Rescue Squad—and each blames the other for their fallen team member. When it's "go-time" though, they put aside their differences and put everything on the line for each other. Chicago Fire is a look inside one of America's noblest professions. Also starring are Eamonn Walker (The Messenger), Charlie Barnett, (Law & Order: SVU), David Eigenberg (Sex and the City), Monica Raymund (The Good Wife), Lauren German (Hawaii Five-0), Teri Reeves (Three Rivers) and Merle Dandridge (Sons of Anarchy). From renowned Emmy-winning producer Dick Wolf and the writing team behind 3:10 to Yuma comes an edge-of-your-seat view of a dirty job that often means the difference between life and death.

My Thoughts: The tension between the two male leads is believable, and there looks to be enough action, romantic etc. to keep the procedural die-hards happy. I don't think I'll be watching.

Do No Harm

NBC's pitch: Dr. Jason Cole (Steven Pasquale, Rescue Me) is a highly respected neurosurgeon who has it all—a lucrative career, confident charm, the gift of compassion. But he also has a deep, dark secret. One morning when he wakes up disoriented in a wrecked hotel room amidst several near-naked women he's never seen before, he knows one thing: It's happening again. Every night at the same hour, something inside Jason changes, leaving him almost unrecognizable—seductive, devious, borderline sociopathic. This new man is his dangerous alternate personality who goes by the name of 'Ian Price.' For years he's battled Ian, keeping him in check with a powerful experimental sedative. But now his—their—body has developed a resistance to the serum, setting Ian free once again. And to make matters worse, after being suppressed for so long, Ian's hell-bent on taking revenge on his oppressor. With everyone Jason cares about at risk—patients, friends, coworkers, and even the woman he loves—he's got to stop Ian once and for all. Will they find some common ground, or will they bring each other down? Hell hath no fury like an alter ego scorned. Also starring are Alana De La Garza (Law & Order), Mousa Kraish (Superbad), Michael Esper (A Beautiful Mind), Ruta Gedmintas (The Borgias) and Phylicia Rashad (The Cosby Show). The executive producer/writer is David Schulner (Desperate Housewives, The Event). Peter Traugott (Ringer) and Rachel Kaplan (Ringer) also are executive producers. Michael Mayer (NBC's Smash) is the co-executive producer and director.

My Thoughts: There's not much to go on, but already Cole's character comes across as grating, and the show itself seems too melodramatic. Perhaps Price, his alter ego will be more entertaining? I won't be watching.

Infamous

NBC's pitch: When wealthy socialite and notorious party girl Vivian Bowers is found dead of an overdose, no one is really surprised. The heiress to the Bowers pharmaceutical empire has been tabloid fodder for years: wild, pretty, privileged... and now dead at the age of 32. But for FBI agent Will Moreno (Laz Alonso, Avatar), things don't add up with this suspicious dynasty. Convinced that the troubled girl's death was a homicide, he has a clever plan to get to the truth. Her name is Detective Joanna Locasto (Meagan Good, Think Like a Man). Twenty years ago, she was Vivian's best friend, having grown up in the Bowers' home. And when she appears at Vivian's funeral, the family re-embraces her and no one is the wiser. Joanna quickly begins to uncover dark secrets and clues about why Vivian's life was very much in danger. At the same time, she rekindles an old romantic relationship and rediscovers the allure of the luxurious lifestyle she once knew. She's about to see once again just how the other half lives... and dies. Also starring are Victor Garber (Alias), Tate Donovan (Damages), Katherine La Nasa (Alfie), Neil Jackson (Quantum of Solace) and Ella Rae Peck (Gossip Girl). Infamous comes from executive producer/writer Liz Heldens (Friday Night Lights) and director Peter Horton (Grey's Anatomy, Dirty Sexy Money).

My Thoughts: I was looking forward to this one, and again, there's not much to go on, but the concept has been done before and Meagan Good doesn't seem a very charismatic lead. I might watch, but only if nothing else is on.

Revolution

NBC's pitch: Our entire way of life depends on electricity. So what would happen if it just stopped working? Well, one day, like a switch turned off, the world is suddenly thrust back into the dark ages. Planes fall from the sky, hospitals shut down, and communication is impossible. And without any modern technology, who can tell us why? Now, 15 years later, life is back to what it once was long before the industrial revolution: families living in quiet cul-de-sacs, and when the sun goes down lanterns and candles are lit. Life is slower and sweeter. Or is it? On the fringes of small farming communities, danger lurks. And a young woman's life is dramatically changed when a local militia arrives and kills her father, who mysteriously—and unbeknownst to her—had something to do with the blackout. This brutal encounter sets her and two unlikely companions off on a daring coming-of-age journey to find answers about the past in the hopes of reclaiming the future. From director Jon Favreau and the fertile imaginations of J.J. Abrams and Eric Kripke comes a surprising "what if" action-adventure series, where an unlikely hero will lead the world out of the dark. Literally. The series stars Billy Burke (The Twilight Saga), Tracy Spiridakos (Being Human), Anna Lise Phillips (Terra Nova), Zak Orth (Romeo + Juliet), Graham Rogers (Memphis Beat), J.D. Pardo (A Cinderella Story), Giancarlo Esposito (Breaking Bad), David Lyons (The Cape), Maria Howell (The Blind Side), Tim Guinee (Iron Man) and Andrea Roth (Rescue Me).

My Thoughts: An intriguing high-concept show, with tension abound. I had my reservations initially, but this trailer is good. I'll be watching. Side note: I'm so glad they sampled the song Touched by VAST towards the end of this trailer, they're an amazing band, and hopefully this will get them some more exposure.

A Look at CBS's New Comedies (2012 - 2013)

Partners

CBS's pitch: Partners is a comedy based on the lives of creators David Kohan and Max Mutchnick, about two life-long best friends and business partners whose "bromance" is tested when one of them is engaged to be married. Joe (David Krumholtz) is an accomplished architect who leads with his head and not his heart, especially in his love life. That's in stark contrast to his gay co-worker, Louis (Michael Urie), who is spontaneous, emotional and prone to exaggeration. Both have found joy in their love lives: Joe is newly engaged to Ali (Sophia Bush), a beautiful and sophisticated jewelry designer, while Louis is dating Wyatt (Brandon Routh), a vegan nurse who Louis insists is just a promotion away from becoming a doctor. As news of Joe's engagement settles, time will tell if their business and personal bond can adapt to the addition of two other important relationships.

My Thoughts: From the creators of Will & Grace comes a show that looks exactly like Will & Grace, if Grace were a straight man, but if it ain't broke, don't fix it, right? I'll be watching, at least initially.

When CBS releases a trailer for its other comedy, Friend Me, which is set to debut mid season, I will post my thoughts here.


Also, did anyone else find the 'Behind The Scenes' trailers a bizarre advertising campaign on CBS's part? A trailer with what actually happens on the show will get me to watch it, not the cast and crew telling me how much fun they have on set. I found it all very distracting and unnecessary.

A Look at CBS's New Dramas (2012 - 2013)

Elementary

CBS's pitch: Elementary stars Jonny Lee Miller as detective Sherlock Holmes and Lucy Liu as Dr. Joan Watson in a modern-day drama about a crime-solving duo that cracks the NYPD's most impossible cases. Following his fall from grace in London and a stint in rehab, eccentric Sherlock escapes to Manhattan where his wealthy father forces him to live with his worst nightmare—a sober companion, Dr. Watson. A successful surgeon until she lost a patient and her license three years ago, Watson views her current job as another opportunity to help people, as well as paying a penance. However, the restless Sherlock is nothing like her previous clients. He informs her that none of her expertise as an addiction specialist applies to him and he's devised his own post-rehab regimen—resuming his work as a police consultant in New York City. Watson has no choice but to accompany her irascible new charge on his jobs. But Sherlock finds her medical background helpful, and Watson realizes she has a knack for playing investigator.

My Thoughts: A procedural headed by a famous eccentric detective, plus it's already been done quite recently with Sherlock. Interesting decision to have Lucy Liu play Watson though. I don't think I'll be watching.

Made In Jersey

CBS's pitch: Made in Jersey is a drama about a young working-class woman who uses her street smarts to compete among her pedigreed Manhattan colleagues at a prestigious New York law firm. Martina Garretti (Janet Montgomery) finds her firm's cutthroat landscape challenging, but what she lacks in an Ivy League education she more than makes up for with tenacity and blue-collar insight. After just a few weeks, firm founder Donovan Stark (Kyle MacLachlan), takes note of Martina's ingenuity and resourcefulness, as does her sassy secretary Cyndi Vega (Toni Trucks). With the support of her big Italian family, including her sexy older sister Bonnie (Erin Cummings), Martina is able to stay true to her roots as a bold, passionate lawyer on the rise in a new intimidating environment.

My Thoughts: Martina and her Italian family seem very grating, and her job at the law firm could provide interesting material, but this seems more of an uplifting character drama than anything else. I won't be watching.

Vegas

CBS's pitch: Dennis Quaid and Michael Chiklis star in Vegas, a drama inspired by the true story of former Las Vegas Sheriff Ralph Lamb, a fourth-generation rancher tasked with bringing order to Las Vegas in the 1960s, a gambling and entertainment mecca emerging from the tumbleweeds. Ralph Lamb (Quaid) wants to be left in peace to run his ranch, but Las Vegas is now swelling with outsiders and corruption which are intruding on his simple life. Recalling Lamb's command as a military police officer during World War II, the Mayor appeals to his sense of duty to look into a murder of a casino worker—and so begins Lamb's clash with Vincent Savino (Chiklis), a ruthless Chicago gangster who plans to make Vegas his own. Assisting Lamb in keeping law and order are his two deputies: his diplomatic, even-keeled brother Jack (Jason O'Mara) and his charming but impulsive son, Dixon (Taylor Handley). Ambitious Assistant District Attorney Katherine O'Connell (Carrie-Anne Moss), who grew up on the ranch next to the Lambs, also lends a hand in preserving justice. In Vegas, two powerful men—Lamb and Savino—are engaged in a fierce battle for control of the budding oasis, and for both of them, folding is not an option.

My Thoughts: CBS seems to be trying out their hand at the period drama, and while it boasts an impressive cast, it doesn't seem all that entertaining. I won't be watching.

When CBS releases a trailer for its other drama, Golden Boy, which is set to debut mid season, I will post my thoughts here.

A Look at ABC's New Comedies (2012 - 2013)

The Family Tools

ABC's pitch: Mixing family with business is never easy, and Jack Shea (Kyle Bornheimer) is about to learn that lesson the hard way. When Jack's father, Tony (J.K. Simmons), has a heart attack and is forced to hand over the keys to his beloved handyman business, Jack is eager to finally step up and make his father proud. Unfortunately Jack's past career efforts have been less than stellar, so everyone seems to be waiting for him to fail. His new job isn't made any easier by Tony's rebellious, troublemaker assistant, Darren (Edi Gathegi), and Darren's flirtatious sister, Liz (Danielle Nicolet), who works at the local hardware store. Yet with the support of his Aunt Terry (Leah Remini) and his oddball yet endearing cousin Mason (Johnny Pemberton), Jack Shea may just find his true calling right at home.

My Thoughts: Kyle Bornheimer doesn't seem particularly appealing as the lead, but Edi Gathegi looks like a standout supporting character. Will be interesting to see how they deal with it being both a family and workplace sitcom. Probably won't watch.

How to Live With Your Parents for the Rest of Your Life

ABC's pitch: Polly (Sarah Chalke) is a single mom who's been divorced for almost a year. The transition wasn't easy for her, especially in this economy. So, like a lot of young people living in this new reality, she and her daughter, Natalie (Rachel Eggleston), have moved back home with her eccentric parents, Elaine (Elizabeth Perkins) and Max (Brad Garrett). But Polly and her parents look at life through two different lenses. Polly's too uptight. Her parents are too laid back. Polly's conservative when it comes to dating (no action, whatsoever), while her parents are still sexually adventurous. They think Polly turned out okay, so what's the big deal? Well, they say it takes a village to raise a child...and in Polly's case, this village is on fire. But with help from her best friend Gregg (Orlando Jones), her lovable yet irresponsible ex-husband Julian (Jon Dore) and her cool and fun assistant Jenn (Rebecca Delgado Smith) Polly takes her first steps toward getting a life, starting with a social one.

My Thoughts: Despite playing the same character as always, Sarah Chalke is always lovable, and Brad Garrett and Elizabeth Perkins, especially, look like they good be fun characters. Probably won't watch.

Malibu Country

ABC's pitch: When Reba Gallagher (Reba) discovers that her husband, Bobby, (Jeffrey Nordling) a country music legend, has a cheatin' heart, her world is turned upside down. Reba dreamt of becoming a country star herself, but put her career on hold to raise a family. Now she's questioning all of that, big-time. With the ink on her divorce barely dry, Reba packs up her sharp-tongued mother, Lillie May (Lily Tomlin), her two kids and the U-Haul and heads for sunny California to begin a new chapter. Leaving Nashville in the rear view, they start over at their Malibu residence -- the last remaining asset they have. Reba gets to know her new open and loving neighbor Kim (Sara Rue) and her son, Sage, but also discovers that relocation to Southern California is going to be quite an adjustment for a traditional southern belle: the West Coast seems like the polar opposite of Music City, and Reba feels like an outsider. Still, with the support of her family she sets about finding her voice, jump-starting her music career with the help of her new music agent, Geoffrey (Jai Rodriguez), and embracing this chance to begin again.

My Thoughts: Reba and Lily Tomlin's characters seem grating, and the concept is nothing new. I won't be watching.

The Neighbors

ABC's pitch: Meet the Weavers, Debbie (Jami Gertz) and Marty (Lenny Venito). Marty, in hopes of providing a better life for his wife and three kids, recently bought a home in Hidden Hills, a gated New Jersey townhome community with its own golf course. Hidden Hills is so exclusive that a house hasn't come on the market in 10 years. But one finally did and the Weavers got it! It's clear from day one that the residents of Hidden Hills are a little different. For starters, their new neighbors all have pro-athlete names like Reggie Jackson (Tim Jo), Jackie Joyner-Kersee (Toks Olagundoye), Dick Butkis (Ian Patrick) and Larry Bird (Simon Templeman). Over dinner, Marty and his family discover that their neighbors receive nourishment through their eyes by reading books, rather than eating. The Weavers soon learn that the entire community is comprised of aliens from Zabvron, where the men bear children and everyone cries green goo from their ears.

I'm aware that this video will probably only work for users in the U.S. I apologise

and will try to find another one to link for you as soon as possible.

My Thoughts: Props for ingenuity, and Simon Templeman stands out in the trailer. I'll only watch this initially because it's different... and I hope and pray it's the good kind.

A Look at ABC's New Dramas (2012 - 2013)

666 Park Avenue

ABC's pitch: At the ominous address of 666 Park Avenue, anything you desire can be yours. Everyone has needs, desires and ambition. For the residents of The Drake, these will all be met, courtesy of the building's mysterious owner, Gavin Doran (Terry O'Quinn). But every Faustian contract comes with a price. When Jane Van Veen (Rachael Taylor) and Henry Martin (Dave Annable), an idealistic young couple from the Midwest, are offered the opportunity to manage the historic building, they not only fall prey to the machinations of Doran and his mysterious wife, Olivia (Vanessa Williams), but unwittingly begin to experience the shadowy, supernatural forces within the building that imprison and endanger the lives of the residents inside. Sexy, seductive and inviting, The Drake maintains a dark hold over all of its residents, tempting them through their ambitions and desires, in this chilling new drama that's home to an epic struggle of good versus evil.

My Thoughts: While it looks like typical campy fun, with emphasis on people's desires and ambitions in the trailer I think this will be more of a character driven show, rather than a focus on the supernatural elements. This is the sort of show I usually enjoy, so I'll be watching.

Last Resort

ABC's Pitch: 500 feet beneath the ocean's surface, the U.S. ballistic missile submarine Colorado receive their orders. Over a radio channel, designed only to be used if their homeland has been wiped out, they're told to fire nuclear weapons at Pakistan. Captain Marcus Chaplin (Andre Braugher) demands confirmation of the orders only to be unceremoniously relieved of duty by the White House. XO Sam Kendal (Scott Speedman) finds himself suddenly in charge of the submarine and facing the same difficult decision. When he also refuses to fire without confirmation of the orders, the Colorado is targeted, fired upon, and hit. The submarine and its crew find themselves crippled on the ocean floor, declared rogue enemies of their own country. Now, with nowhere left to turn, Chaplin and Kendal take the sub on the run and bring the men and women of the Colorado to an exotic island. Here they will find refuge, romance and a chance at a new life, even as they try to clear their names and get home.

My Thoughts: The concept is great, and the cast looks good too, but I'm going to have a difficult time suspending my disbelief and the show will cost a lot to make. I'll be watching, I want to see how this goes.

Mistresses

ABC's pitch: Welcome to a provocative and thrilling drama about the scandalous lives of a sexy and sassy group of four girlfriends, each on her own path to self-discovery, as they brave the turbulent journey together. Meet Savi (Alyssa Milano), a successful career woman working toward the next phase in her life -- both professional and personal -- simultaneously bucking for partner at her law firm while she and her husband, Harry (Brett Tucker), try to start a family of their own. Savi's free-spirited and capricious baby sister, Josselyn (Jes Macallan), couldn't be more different - living single, serial dating and partying, and regularly leaning on her big sister along the way. Their common best friend, April (Rochelle Aytes), a recent widow and mother of two, is rebuilding her life after tragedy and learning to move forward, with the support and guidance of her closest girlfriends. And friend Karen (Yunjin Kim), a successful therapist with her own practice, reconnects with the girls after her involvement in a complicated relationship with a patient goes far too deep.

My Thoughts: Other than two recognisable leads, this show doesn't have anything new going for it, relying on a well-worn formula. I won't be watching.

Nashville

ABC's pitch: Chart-topping Rayna James (Connie Britton) is a country legend who's had a career any singer would envy, though lately her popularity is starting to wane. Fans still line up to get her autograph, but she's not packing the arenas like she used to. Rayna's record label thinks a concert tour, opening for up-and-comer Juliette Barnes (Hayden Panettiere), the young and sexy future of country music, is just what Rayna needs. But scheming Juliette can't wait to steal Rayna's spotlight. Sharing a stage with that disrespectful, untalented, little vixen is the last thing Rayna wants to do, which sets up a power struggle for popularity. Could the undiscovered songwriting talent of Scarlett O'Connor (Clare Bowen) be the key to helping Rayna resurrect her career?

My Thoughts: The two leads seem to have great chemistry, and the trailer demonstrates the show will have storylines going on multiple levels. I wasn't planning to watch, but now I definitely will. I just hope they keep the 'countryness' of it all to a minimum.

Red Widow

ABC's pitch: When Marta Walraven's (Radha Mitchell) husband is brutally murdered, her first instinct is to protect her three young children. Her husband's business partners - Irwin Petrova (Wil Traval), Marta's scheming and untrustworthy brother, and Mike Tomlin (Lee Tergesen) -- were involved in an illegal drug business deal with rival gangsters, and Marta's husband paid the ultimate price. She already knows the violent world of organized crime; her father, Andrei Petrova (Rade Sherbedzija), and loyal bodyguard Luther (Luke Goss) are gangsters too. She and her sister Kat (Jaime Ray Newman) had always wished for a safer life without bloodshed and fear. For a while Marta lived happily as a stay at home housewife in San Marta's cooperation, FBI Agent James Ramos (Mido Hamada) now promises justice. Marta discovers a tenacity she never knew she had, and takes on the gangsters and the FBI to unveil the truth about her husband's death. As she digs into this dark underworld, she'll test her own strength, relying on her resourcefulness, determination and family ties like never before. To get out of this mob, she needs to beat the bad guys at their own deadly game.

My Thoughts: While the set-up of the concept looks good, it's hard to see where this show will head as it goes on. I won't be watching.

Zero Hour

ABC's pitch: As the publisher of a paranormal enthusiast magazine, Modern Skeptic, Hank Galliston has spent his career following clues, debunking myths and solving conspiracies. A confessed paranormal junkie, his motto is "logic is the compass." But when his beautiful wife, Laila (Jacinda Barrett), is abducted from her antique clock shop, Hank gets pulled into one of the most compelling mysteries in human history, stretching around the world and back centuries. Contained in one of his wife's clocks is a treasure map, and what it leads to could be cataclysmic. Now it's up to Hank to decipher the symbols and unlock the secrets of the map, while ensuring the answers don't fall into the wrong hands - a man they call White Vincent (Michael Nyqvist). With his two young associates, Rachel (Addison Timlin) and Arron (Scott Michael Foster), in tow, along with Becca Riley, a sexy FBI agent (Carmen Ejogo), Hank will lead them on a breathless race against the clock to find his wife and save humanity.

My Thoughts: The concept seems far too large for television, and again, it'll cost a lot to make and I'll have trouble suspending my disbelief. I'll watch initially, but only out of interest. I can't see this doing well.

Coming soon... ABC's comedies.

Renewals & Cancellations (2012 - 2013 Season)

So upfronts, that time of year where networks present their planned schedule for the next television season to prospective advertisers, has come and gone. And with that some of our favourite television have miraculously lived on, and others have been cruelly cancelled. Below you'll find my thoughts and feelings about some of the decisions networks have made.

ABC:

Unsurprisingly, two of this seasons biggest hits, Revenge and Once Upon A Time were renewed. Not wanting to make ABC queen Shonda Rhimes unhappy, not only did Private Practice join it's parent show, Grey's Anatomy, in the renewal pile, but her new political drama Scandal, was picked up for a second season. Body of Proof is also sticking around along with ABC's other crime procedural, Castle. On the comedy side of things, Modern Family, The Middle, and surprisingly, Happy Endings, were renewed, as well as the freshman comedies, Suburgatory, Last Man Standing, and Don't Trust The Bitch In Apartment 23, while ABC has palmed off Cougar Town to TBS.

Joining Charlie's Angels, Work It and Man Up! in cancellation, are also GCB, Missing, Pan Am, and The River, majority of them high concept dramas that failed to produce the ratings they needed for the network.

CBS:

There wasn't much renewal news for CBS to announce this year, having picked up 2 Broke Girls, The Big Bang Theory, Blue Bloods, Criminal Minds, CSI, The Good Wife, Hawaii Five-0, How I Met Your Mother, The Mentalist, Mike & Molly, NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles and Person of Interest all the way back in March, showing its content with its shows. The only shows joining them, long time CBS comedy staple Two and A Half Men, and CSI: NY.

Comedies How to Be a Gentlemen and Rob were cancelled, as well as the three freshman dramas A Gifted Man, NYC 22 and Unforgettable. Surprisingly, the long-running CSI: Miami was also cancelled.

The verdict is still out on the comedy-that-could Rules of Engagement.

NBC:

Joining Grimm, which was renewed in March, NBC also renewed Law & Order: SVU, and critical darlings Parenthood and Smash. In a surprising move the network renewed many of it's on-the-bubble comedies including 30 Rock, Community, Parks and Recreation, as well as the long-running The Office. Freshman comedies Up All Night and Whitney were also renewed.

Other freshman comedies Are You There, Chelsea?, Bent, and Best Friends Forever didn't fair so well and were cancelled. As were the dramas Awake, The Firm, and Harry's Law, which joined Free Agents, The Playboy Club, and Prime Suspects, which had been cancelled previously.

Fox:

As well as its dominating animations American Dad!, The Cleveland Show, Family Guy and The Simpsons, Fox also renewed Bob Burgers, as well as the comedies Glee, New Girl and Raising Hope. In the drama department Bones and Touch were both renewed, and surprisingly Fringe is receiving a shortened final season.

Not so lucky were Alcatraz, Breaking In, The Finder, Napoleon Dynamite and I Hate My Teenage Daughter, which joined Allen Gregory and Terra Nova as the shows the network cancelled.

The CW:

Long running-series/ staples 90210, Gossip Girl, Supernatural and The Vampire Diaries were all renewed as well as freshman series Hart of Dixie. Nikita, surprisingly, was also renewed.

The CW's other two freshman series, Ringer and The Secret Circle, didn't fair so well, and were cancelled.

Overall, there's not a whole lot television fans have to complain about after this years upfronts. Pretty much all of the shows that were cancelled were new series, eleven of which premiered in the fall as mid-season replacements. Some may argue that shows that premiere in March/ April don't get a fair chance, and while that may be true, I don't think we're going to be hearing too many complaints about the cancellation of Rob.

The surprise cancellation of the lot would have to be CSI: Miami, and while it was likely that either it or CSI: NY would be cancelled, it's still always a little discerning when a network decides to axe a show after ten years of hard work. The show that I'm most heart-broken over its cancellation is Alcatraz. Many instantly put in on the 'trying to be like Lost' pile, which is a shame because I actually thought that it was one of the few high concept dramas I've since that perfectly balanced it procedurals elements with it's mythology.

As for the renewals, I was most surprised by Nikita's, which was also, along with Alcatraz, one of the shows I most wanted to be renewed. I thought for sure The CW would renew The Secret Circle or possibly even Ringer over this.

It will be interesting to see what dramas networks will deliver next season after the failure of what so many people thought would be sure-fire hits. High-concept/ genre-bending dramas (The River, Awake, Alcatraz and Terra-Nova), the Mad Men inspired attempts (Pam Am, The Playboy Club), and shows that were expected to take over ageing gems (The Finder, The Secret Circle, and all of Fox's freshman animations), all failed, so it will be interesting to see what we get next.

So did any of your favourite shows get cancelled? Which ones are you most glad are sticking around? And as we all know, the other side of cancellations is pick-ups, meaning new shows! Over the next week I'll be previewing the pilots each network has green lit, so stay tuned.