You can catch many "Firefly" cast members on TV this fall.
If you loved Joss Whedon's short-lived sci-fi series "Firefly" or its movie spin-off, "Serenity," you'll want to turn on the TV Tuesday. Two members of the "Firefly" cast, Alan Tudyk and Morena Baccarin, star in the series premiere of "V" on ABC. Let's take a look at how the new TV roles of some "Firefly" cast members compare to their times as space cowboys.
Tony Hale plays office nerd Stuart in the Web series "Ctrl." NBC photo
Tony Hale is ready for the "Arrested Development" movie.
"I want to wear Buster's hand again," he told me during a phone interview on Thursday. "I want to wear the hook again."
Morgan (Joshua Gomez) will be eating a lot of Subway sandwiches on "Chuck." NBC photo
Go get a foot-long, people. Subway not only helped with the Twitter campaign to #savechuck, but the company has struck a deal with NBC to become a major sponsor, which means more Chuck, Sarah, Casey, Jeffster, Ellie and Awesome for all of us.
Posted at 9:45 a.m. Tuesday, May 19
NBC finally made the official announcement today: “Chuck” will be back next season, and Subway will be a major sponsor.
Go get a foot-long, people. Subway not only helped with the Twitter campaign to #savechuck, but the company has struck a deal with NBC to become a major sponsor, which means more Chuck, Sarah, Casey, Jeffster, Ellie and Awesome for all of us.
NBC says the show will return to its 7 p.m. Monday slot after the Winter Olympics. That's a long wait until next Spring.
Posted at 5:30 p.m. Monday, May 18
Vik Sahay loves “Chuck” fans.
Sahay, who plays nerdy Lester Patel on the NBC comedy, told me on Monday that he’s “blown away” by fan support that has saved the much-loved but low-rated show.
“I am so moved and overwhelmed and grateful,” he said. “I kind of can’t believe it, but it looks like [fan support] made a huge impact. ... I’m kind of speechless and blown away by it. And so appreciative and grateful.”
MY EARLIER CHAT WITH VIK SAHAY.
Vik Sahay loves "Chuck" fans.
Sahay, who plays nerdy Lester Patel on the NBC comedy, told me on Monday that he's "blown away" by fan support that has saved the much-loved but low-rated show.
"I am so moved and overwhelmed and grateful," he said. "I kind of can't believe it, but it looks like [fan support] made a huge impact. ... I'm kind of speechless and blown away by it. And so appreciative and grateful."
Posted at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, May 17
Put the gun down, Zach, "Chuck" is coming back for a third season. NBC photo
Sometimes the good guys prevail. Fans of “Chuck,” you are the good guys.
NBC has renewed the spy comedy for at least 13 episodes next season, giving fans who have campaigned to save the show something to celebrate—a third season. We have to thank all the fans, critics and advertisers such as Subway and Nerds for never giving up on this awesome—yes, Captain, I said it—awesome show. We should also tip our hats to Chuck himself—Zachary Levi—who has been out there everywhere working for a renewal.
Put the gun down, Zach, "Chuck" is coming back this fall. NBC photo
Sometimes the good guys prevail. Fans of "Chuck," you are the good guys.
NBC has renewed the spy comedy for at least 13 episodes next season, giving fans who have campaigned to save the show something to celebrate--a third season. We have to thank all the fans, critics and advertisers such as Subway and Nerds for never giving up on this awesome--yes, Captain, I said it--awesome show. We should also tip our hats to Chuck himself--Zachary Levi--who has been out there everywhere working for a renewal.
The good news comes with possibly bad, however. According to reports, creators Josh Schwartz and Chris Fedak and Warner Bros. Television had to agree to a smaller budget than the previous two seasons.
That could mean fewer great guest stars, alterations in the writers' room or, gulp, ditching some of the regular cast members.
Reports have the show airing on Friday nights this fall, possibly up against another low-rated series, "Dollhouse," which Fox has reportedly renewed. I've got calls in to NBC and will keep you posted, but for now, happy-happy, joy-joy!
NBC announced part of its 2009-2010 TV season today in New York, and as expected, the network did not say when Season 3 of "Chuck" would begin.
OK, so I'm keeping a positive spin on Chuck's story. It must return. NBC didn't mention "Chuck" or "Medium" in today's announcement, but said in a press release that additional series pickups will be announced May 19. So keep sending the Nerds to NBC.
On Monday, NBC said it will pick up "Heroes," "Southland," "Parks and Recreation" and six new episodes of "Saturday Night Live Weekend Update Thursday." It previously announced the return of "The Office," "30 Rock," "The Biggest Loser," "The Celebrity Apprentice," "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," "Friday Night Lights."
New scripted series include "Trauma," "Parenthood," "Mercy," "Day One," "Community" and "100 Questions." New reality programming includes "The Marriage Ref," "Breakthrough With Tony Robbins" and "Who Do You Think You Are?" And let's not forget five hours of Jay Leno each week.
Descriptions of and video clips from the new series follow, all from the network.
Posted at 9:45 a.m. Monday, May 4
NBC announced part of its 2009-2010 TV season today in New York, and as expected, the network did not say when Season 3 of “Chuck” would begin.
OK, so I’m keeping a positive spin on Chuck's story. It must return. NBC didn’t mention “Chuck” or “Medium” in today’s announcement, but said in a press release that additional series pickups will be announced May 19. So keep sending the Nerds to NBC.
On Monday, NBC said it will pick up "Heroes," "Southland," "Parks and Recreation” and six new episodes of "Saturday Night Live Weekend Update Thursday.” It previously announced the return of "The Office," "30 Rock," "The Biggest Loser," "The Celebrity Apprentice," "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," "Friday Night Lights."
New scripted series include "Trauma," "Parenthood," "Mercy," “Day One," "Community" and "100 Questions." New reality programming includes "The Marriage Ref," "Breakthrough With Tony Robbins" and "Who Do You Think You Are?" And let’s not forget five hours of Jay Leno each week.
Descriptions of and video clips from the new series follow, all from the network press release.
Posted at 4:30 p.m. Friday, May 1
The Save “Chuck” campaigns got a big boost on Friday. Candy maker Wonka said it will deliver more than 1,000 packs of Nerds candy to NBC in support of the spy comedy.
According to Wonka, “Chuck” co-creator and producer Josh Schwartz came up with the idea when he was interviewed by The New York Times’ Dave Itzkoff. In the April 20 story, Schwartz said fans could send Nerds just as “Jericho” fans has sent CBS peanuts to save that show.
Chuck Bartowski (Zachary Levi, right), as fans know, is part of the Nerd Herd computer tech team at the Buy More.
You can send Nerds to NBC at the below addresses. Check my past “Chuck” posts for more ways to show support. NBC is likely to make an announcement on the show Monday, May 4.
NBC’s “Chuck”
Attn: Ben Silverman
3000 W Alameda Ave., Admin Bldg
Burbank, CA 91523
NBC’s “Chuck”
Attn: Angela Bromstad
100 Universal City Plaza, Bldg 1320E 4th Floor
Universal City, CA 91608
Zachary Levi of NBC's "Chuck" clowns with a giant Nerds box.
According to Wonka, "Chuck" co-creator and producer Josh Schwartz came up with the idea when he was interviewed by The New York Times' Dave Itzkoff. In the April 20 story, Schwartz said fans could send Nerds just as "Jericho" fans has sent CBS peanuts to save that show.
Chuck Bartowski (Zachary Levi), as fans know, is part of the Nerd Herd computer tech team at the Buy More.
You can send Nerds to NBC at the below addresses.
Posted at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 27
Everything I’ve ever written on “Chuck,” including an interview with Vik Sahay.
I’m going to work late today, because I’m watching yet again the phenomenal Season 2 finale of “Chuck,” which blew my mind Monday.
How many different ways can I express how many different kinds of awesome it was? Best … TV … season … finale … ever.
And I say “season” finale as opposed to “series” finale because NBC MUST bring it back after that beyond delightful, fully satisfying, unbelievably riotous hour.
NBC, can you be awesome? Save Chuck! I’ve recently come into a little bit of money … Will that help your decision?
I’m not going to do a blow-by-blow of the episode here. But I do want to share some of the best writing on TV ever. Below you’ll find some of the great lines from “Chuck Versus The Ring,” which was written by co-creator Chris Fedak and Ali Adler.
Everything I've ever written on "Chuck," including an interview with Vik Sahay.
I'm going to work late today, because I'm watching yet again the phenomenal Season 2 finale of "Chuck," which blew my mind Monday.
How many different ways can I express how many different kinds of awesome it was? Best ... TV ... season ... finale ... ever.
And I say "season" finale as opposed to "series" finale because NBC MUST bring it back after that beyond delightful, fully satisfying, unbelievably riotous hour.
NBC, can you be awesome? Save Chuck! I've recently come into a little bit of money ... Will that help your decision?
I'm not going to do a blow-by-blow of the episode here. But I do want to share some of the best writing on TV ever. Below you'll find some of the great lines from "Chuck Versus The Ring," which was written by co-creator Chris Fedak and Ali Adler.
Morgan (Joshua Gomez, center) introduces Lester (Vik Sahay, left) and Jeff (Scott Krinksy, right) as Jeffster makes a triumphant return to "Chuck" in the season finale Monday. NBC photo
"Chuck" closed out its second season with an incredible episode that, as creators Josh Schwartz and Chris Fedak have said all along, was a "game-changer."
Jeffster is a wedding band! And Lester is the wedding singer!
Oh, wait, maybe that's not the game-changer. Maybe it has to do with Chuck (Zachary Levi). (No worries, no spoilers here.)
Matthew Bomer (right) and Tim DeKay co-star in a new USA series tentatively called "White Collar." USA photoDon't panic, "Chuck" fans. Just because Matthew Bomer's pilot for USA Network, "White Collar," has been greenlit for a series doesn't mean all hope is lost for "Chuck's" renewal.
Bomer wasn't a series regular on "Chuck," where he occasionally played spy Bryce Larkin, Chuck's former bud and Sarah's former boyfriend. (He's back for Monday's season finale, by the way.)
Posted at 10 p.m. Monday, April 27
Morgan (Joshua Gomez, center) introduces Lester (Vik Sahay, left) and Jeff (Scott Krinksy, right) as Jeffster makes a triumphant return to “Chuck” in the season finale Monday. NBC photo
”Chuck” closed out its second season with an incredible episode that, as creators Josh Schwartz and Chris Fedak have said all along, was a “game-changer.”
Jeffster is a wedding band! And Lester is the wedding singer!
Oh, wait, maybe that's not the game-changer. Maybe it has to do with Chuck (Zachary Levi). (No worries, no spoilers here.)
Anyway, “Chuck” has deservedly earned a groundswell of support from a rabid fan base, several TV critics including this one, and secret agents all over the world. (They can’t be vocal because they are secret agents—but trust me.)
“Chuck” needs the love, as it is what they call a “bubble show.” NBC is deciding whether it should return next fall. All the networks are looking over schedules, ratings and the money machine to decide the fate of several bubble shows.
Zap2it asked visitors to its site to vote on which bubble shows should return and which should get canceled. People voted to save four of my fave comedies, including my beloved “Chuck,” the wonderful “Reaper,” “Better Off Ted” and “Samantha Who?”
Read the list and vote at Zap2it.com.
Posted at 12:25 a.m. Monday, July 27
Matthew Bomer (right) and Tim DeKay co-star in a new USA Network series tentatively called "White Collar." USA photo
Don’t panic, “Chuck” fans. Just because Matthew Bomer’s pilot for USA Network, “White Collar,” has been greenlit for a series doesn’t mean all hope is lost for “Chuck’s” renewal.
Bomer wasn’t a series regular on “Chuck,” where he occasionally played spy Bryce Larkin, Chuck’s former bud and Sarah’s former boyfriend. (He’s back for Monday's season finale, by the way.)
Posted at 7:55 p.m. Friday, April 24
An NBC rep for the series "Chuck" said rumors the the series has been renewed are not true.
"No decision will be made until early May," NBC's Jamie French wrote in an e-mail.
He was responding to a post on the Web site series.nu which said that the show has been given a 13-episode order for next year, citing a source at NBC.
"The NBC insider says that Chuck will get a third season of 13 episodes. But another insider at WB is telling its not 100% sure, but its looking very good for the show," the post stated.
WB is Warner Brothers, the studio that produces "Chuck," which airs its Season 2 finale at 7 p.m. Monday. (Be sure to watch and Save Chuck!) I was unable to track down a Warner Brothers rep.
"Chuck" has been ratings challenged during both its seasons, but it does have a rabid fan base and, simply because its so damn good, deserves to be renewed. Here's hoping that rumor turns into fact come May.
Posted at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 23
Here are several sneak peeks at the Season 2 finale of "Chuck," which airs at 7 p.m. Monday. It's going to be awesome!
Tune in, and don't forget the big Finale and a Footlong "Save Chuck" event going on. On Monday you should go to your local Subway, buy a footlong and leave a note in the suggestion box stating that NBC should SAVE CHUCK!
For more ways to save the show, including snail mailing NBC, go to this post.
Enjoy the clips below, and the finale.
Here are several sneak peeks at the Season 2 finale of "Chuck," which airs at 7 p.m. Monday. It's going to be awesome!
Tune in, and don't forget the big Finale and a Footlong "Save Chuck" event going on. On Monday you should go to your local Subway, buy a footlong and leave a note in the suggestion box stating that NBC should SAVE CHUCK!
For more ways to save the show, including snail mailing NBC, go to this post.
Enjoy the clips below, and the finale.
Posted at 8:30 p.m. Sunday, April 19
YouTuber Fridolizzer86 posted this "Chuck Versus the Cancellation" video Friday. Check out a big collection of Chuckness at ZacharyLevi.Net
Do Chuck and Sarah finally get things going on Monday’s “Chuck”? (Watch it! Watch t! Watch it!) The teaser below for “Chuck Versus the Colonel” kind of hints at that, as does NBC’s description of the episode below. DON’T READ IF YOU DON’T WANT TO KNOW ANYTHING!
It’s the last episode before the April 27 season finale, called “Chuck Versus the Ring.” Be sure to watch both eps, write to NBC about why they should keep the show, and join all the “Save Chuck” campaigns around the world, some of which you can find in my previous plea and The Watcher Mo Ryan’s previous plea.
Also, enjoy my interview with Vik Sahay, who plays Lester, in anticipation of another appearance by the great song stylists Jeffster, coming before the end of the season.
Posted at 4:45 p.m. Sunday, Apirl 12
LESTER wants you to save "Chuck."
It’s Chuck Versus the Network Pick-Up time, people. The wonderfully fun NBC comedy “Chuck” has just three episodes left in its excellent, awesome, amazing sophomore season. And we want it to be renewed.
Vik Sahay, who plays Chuck’s duplicitous Buy More workmate Lester Patel, wouldn’t tell any secrets about the last three episodes, but he did say what’s coming is exciting.
“I had been hearing [creator] Josh Schwartz talk about a game-changer before I knew what was happening at the end of the season,” Sahay said. “I thought, ‘What could that be?’ When I read it and started shooting it, I thought, ‘Yes this is a game-changer.’”
Fans of "Chuck" can expect a return engagement from the hilariously bad musical misfits Jeffster before Season 2 is over. Just don't expect an EP from the two actors who play band members Jeff and Lester.
Vik Sahay
The Canadian actor, who plays Lester opposite Scott Krinsky's Jeff on the NBC comedy, said neither of the actors has had musical training. Sahay doesn't even play Rock Band in his spare time--or does he?
"I do many, many things in the privacy of my own home that I never intend to be public," he joked. "Let's leave it at that."
Posted at 4:25 p.m. Sunday, April 12
"Chuck" returns at 7 p.m. Monday on NBC. HELP SAVE "CHUCK"
Fans of “Chuck” can expect a return engagement from the hilariously bad musical misfits Jeffster before Season 2 is over. Just don’t expect an EP from the two actors who play band members Jeff and Lester.
“As much as performing like that is terrifying for Lester, it’s 10 times as terrifying for one Vik Sahay,” Sahay told me during a recent phone interview. “That would just be an odd one.”
The Canadian actor, who plays Lester opposite Scott Krinsky’s Jeff on the NBC comedy, said neither of the actors has had musical training. Sahay doesn’t even play Rock Band in his spare time—or does he?
“I do many, many things in the privacy of my own home that I never intend to be public,” he joked. “Let’s leave it at that.”
Posted at 5:45 p.m. Sunday, April 5, 2009
Isn’t it just Chuck Bartowski’s luck that he finds a dream job at the company run by his long-time computer-genius hero, but things go horribly wrong?
I’m not telling any fans of my favorite current TV comedy anything they don’t already know, but that genius, Ted Roark, is played by Chevy Chase. And Ted is not quite what Chuck (Zachary Levi) expected.
Posted at 6:15 p.m. Monday, March 30
It’s almost like winning the state championships—thee years running. NBC and DirecTV made it official today: “Friday Night Lights” will be back for two more 13-episode seasons.
The partnership allowed for the current season of the NBC drama, based on the book and feature film about the townspeople in football-crazy Dillon, Texas. In the updated deal, DirecTV has exclusive rights to the series' fourth and fifth seasons on “The 101 Network.” NBC will air the shows later during each season.
"We're proud that a deal for the renewal of 'Friday Night Lights' has been reached," NBC co-chair Ben Silverman said in a release. "It is one of the best shows in the history of television and we've worked hard to keep it alive for future seasons.”
Now fans have to wonder what will happen to some favorite characters who are seniors: Tyra (Adrianne Palicki), Landry (Jesse Plemons), Riggins (Taylor Kitsch), Lyla (Minka Kelly) and Matt (Zach Gilford).
At least we know sophomore quarterback J.D. McCoy (Jeremy Sumpter) will be back, along with Coach Taylor (Kyle Chandler) and his wife and principal, Tami (Connie Britton).
Maybe NBC will strike a similar deal with DirecTV to keep "Chuck" on TV.
Posted at 6:15 p.m. Monday, March 30
It’s almost like winning the state championships—thee years running. NBC and DirecTV made it official today: “Friday Night Lights” will be back for two more 13-episode seasons.
The partnership allowed for the current season of the NBC drama, based on the book and feature film about the townspeople in football-crazy Dillon, Texas. In the updated deal, DirecTV has exclusive rights to the series' fourth and fifth seasons on “The 101 Network.” NBC will air the shows later during each season.
"We're proud that a deal for the renewal of 'Friday Night Lights' has been reached," NBC co-chair Ben Silverman said in a release. "It is one of the best shows in the history of television and we've worked hard to keep it alive for future seasons.”
Now fans have to wonder what will happen to some favorite characters who are seniors: Tyra (Adrianne Palicki), Landry (Jesse Plemons), Riggins (Taylor Kitsch), Lyla (Minka Kelly) and Matt (Zach Gilford).
At least we know sophomore quarterback J.D. McCoy (Jeremy Sumpter) will be back, along with Coach Taylor (Kyle Chandler) and his wife and principal, Tami (Connie Britton).
Maybe NBC will strike a similar deal with DirecTV to keep "Chuck" on TV.
Posted at 10:30 p.m. Sunday, March 29
For some reason, NBC isn’t bothering to post previews of new episodes of “Chuck” at nbc.com. I hope that doesn’t mean the network has given up on this funny, entertaining and clever series.
Posted at 8 a.m. Monday, March 23
CHUCK
7 p.m. Mondays, NBC
Tune in or out? 
out of four.
What’s up, viewers? How can I convince you to show unlikely secret agent man Chuck Bartowski (Zachary Levi) some love?
His undercover girlfriend and CIA protector, Sarah (Yvonne Strahovski), is the hottest TV spy since Sydney Bristow, while his other handler, Casey (Adam Baldwin), is the funniest straight man ever. Did I mention his Buy More co-workers? Hilarious. Or how about his fascinating missions and evil nemeses? Fascinating; evil.
In Monday’s all-new “Chuck vs. the Predator,” our hero is contacted by the scientist who created the Intersect computer that’s stored in Chuck’s brain. Meanwhile, Chuck’s Buy More cohorts take on the way more posh Beverly Hills store. All this sets up the guest-star turns of Tricia Helfer, Scott Bakula and Chevy Chase before the end of the season.
“Chuck” is "on the bubble," as they say, which means NBC is trying to decide if the show should come back for another season.
I want this show back next year—and you should too. So don’t miss another laugh-out-loud moment.
For those of you who agree with me, someone has started a campaign at Petition Spot to renew “Chuck” for another season.
Click here for a CHUCK VS THE PREDATOR - Promo
Posted using ShareThis
CHUCK VS. NEW YORK COMIC CON
Posted at 10:44 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 15
AMY SEDARIS CRACKS UP "THE CLOSER" ON MONDAY.
Chuck and Sarah go from a Valentine’s Day cover date to getting married in the latest episode of NBC’s “Chuck,” airing at 7 p.m. Monday. (It may be dialed by the president.)
The spy pair (Zachary Levi and Yvonne Strahovski) go undercover in the suburbs for their latest assignment. There they meet very interesting neighbors played by guest stars Andy Richter and Jenny McCarthy.
Click the link below for one more clip from the episode, and short interviews with McCarthy and Richter about their roles.
YVONNE STRAHOVSKI AT NEW YORK COMIC CON
Posted at 11:45 p.m. New York time, Feb. 8
"Torchwood" at NYCC.
NYCC ON THE "FRINGE"
Yvonne Strahovski (shown with Zachary Levi) appeared with exec producers Josh Schwartz and Chris Fedak at NYCC. NBC photo
“Chuck” creator Josh Schwartz has one question for Barack Obama: Where’s the love?
During his appearance at New York Comic Con on Sunday, Schwartz lamented the fact that “Chuck” had gained momentum with last week’s 3D episode only to have it stalled by the president’s address to the nation at 7 p.m. Monday.
Obama may give another address on Feb. 16, Schwartz said.
“Clearly, Obama’s first plan as president was to destroy ‘Chuck,’” Schwartz joked to a crowd of about 1,000 fans.
He then said that the Feb. 16 address probably would last only five minutes, meaning the episode guest-starring Andy Richter and Jenny McCarthy, “Chuck vs. the Suburbs,” would be shown.
Schwartz, executive producer Chris Fedak and Yvonne Strahovski, who pays CIA agent Sarah Walker, participated in the panel that opened with a special, five-minute clip package of scenes from upcoming episodes.
It featured many of the guest stars I’ve written about previously, including Scott Bakula, Chevy Chase, Tricia Helfer and Jonathan Cake. There was a whole lot of action, more of Sarah fighting in her underwear (more skin from the guys as well), Big Mike dating Morgan’s mom and what look to be several hilarious scenes involving Emmitt Millbarge.
As Captain Awesome would say, well, I guess you know what he’d say.
Don’t miss my highlights of the panel—which was quite funny at times—by clicking the link below.
Posted a 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1
MORE "CHUCK"; EVEN MORE; STILL MORE; LAST ONE.
CHUCK
CHUCK VERSUS THE THIRD DIMENSION
7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2
Tune in or out? out of four.
NBC follows up Sunday’s Super Bowl 3D experiment with “Chuck Versus the Third Dimension.”
As Chuck’s soon-to-be brother-in-law, Devon, would say: Awesome.
The episode’s excellence has little to do with the 3D effects. In fact, I’m not convinced that Intel’s Tru3D technology, which was used to film “Chuck” and the “Monsters vs. Aliens” movie Sunday, works as well on TV as in movie theaters.
There are several nice 3D tricks—a lingerie-clad Sarah, a doughnut about to be eaten by Big Mike, extra special flashes from Chuck, a knife being thrown. But I wear glasses, and the 3D specs worked best without them, so I had to get close to the screen to really see the effects. (The effects popped more when I watched on my computer.)
“Chuck Versus the Third Dimension” is marvelous in 2D, so don’t fret if you don’t have 3D glasses. The episode offers more hilarious one-liners, pop culture references (pay close attention Monday, “Arrested Development” fans) and heart than many other shows do in a whole season.
And yes, it also offers lingerie-clad Sarah (Yvonne Strahovski). The episode opens with the sexy spy’s jaw-dropping seduction of Chuck (Zachary Levi, stage diving below), who still is reeling after witnessing Sarah kill an unarmed Fulcrum agent in “Chuck Versus Santa Claus.”
Dominic Monaghan gives a bravura performance as boozy rock star Tyler Martin, the target of a group of killers. Chuck is assigned to babysit Tyler, who takes our nerdy hero on a bender that nearly gets both of them killed.
“That’s not such a great idea,” Chuck warns Tyler when he suggests they take two hot women to a hotel room.
“All the best nights of my life have begun with that sentence,” Tyler says.
The secondary plot offers has even greater laughs involving ladies panties, competitive eating, urinal cakes and a contest between ex-con Jimmy Butterman (guest star Jerome Bettis), Lester and Jeff to be Morgan’s plus-one going backstage at Tyler’s concert.
The Buy More scenes prove that Josh Gomez (as Morgan), Scott Krinsky (as Jeff) and Vik Sahay (as Lester) are the show’s weapons of mass hilarity.
MONDAY'S "HOUSE"
MONDAY'S "HEROES"
MONDAY'S "MEDIUM"
Posted at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29
Anna Torv and John Noble co-star in "Fringe." Fox photo
Forget the British invasion. With the Australian Open tennis tournament in full swing, a new Oz-filmed reality show on G4 and the Aussies-vs.-Kiwis antics on this Sunday’s “Flight of the Conchords,” you can’t watch the idiot box without people from Down Under turning up. Click the link below to see just a few of Sheilas and blokes from Oz currently gracing American TV screens.
After that, check out my Aussie photo gallery of other Aussies in pop culture here.
Posted at 10:05 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26
Anyone who reads this blog regularly knows that I’m a big, big, huge fan of NBC’s “Chuck.” I’ve posted several videos about the upcoming Feb. 2 episode of the show, “Chuck vs. the 3rd Dimension.” If you haven’t heard, it’s in 3D.
Posted at 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22
There is life after “Lost.” Just ask Dominic Monaghan, who played Charlie on the ABC show. He’s guest-starring as rock star Tyler on NBC’s “Chuck” on Feb. 2.
“I’ve never done comedy before,” he says. He likes it.
Find more clips from the 3D episode by going here and here.
Posted at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21
I missed this news last week, but since I’m on the subject of “Chuck” this morning, I thought I’d share: Scott Bakula is going to play Chuck's dad.
Series creator Josh Schwartz told EW’s Michael Ausiello that Bakula (right) will guest star in at least three episode as Chuck and Ellie’s estranged father.
If you remember, Chuck (Zachary Levi) promised Ellie (Sarah Lancaster) that he’d find their dad before her wedding to Captain Awesome (Ryan McPartlin).
"When he finds him, he's not necessarily a guy who wants to be found," Schwartz told EW. "He's living in a trailer, he's disheveled, he's paranoid and he's claiming constantly that [software billionaire] Ted Roark—who he used to work with—stole all his ideas from him.”
Roark, as I recently reported, will be played by Chevy Chase. The successful mogul has been a hero of Chuck’s since the nerd was a boy. Bakula and Chase will begin their story arcs in April, EW reports.
Because I can’t get enough of NBC’s spy-fi comedy, I figure you can’t either. So here are two video tributes the network as put together—one honoring our hero himself and one honoring the ever-so-lovely CIA agent Sarah (played by the ever-so-lovely Yvonne Strahovski).
Don’t forget, “Chuck” returns at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2, with a 3D episode called "Chuck Versus the Third Dimension."
EVEN MORE CHUCK 3D CLIPS, PLUS WHERE TO GET GLASSES.
Posted at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21
When the spy-fi comedy “Chuck” finally returns to NBC at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2, it’ll be done in 3D, the night after 3D commercials for SoBe Lifewater and the film "Monsters vs. Aliens" air during Super Bowl XLIII.
In "Chuck Versus the Third Dimension," our hero Chuck (Zachary Levi) foils a plan to kill rock star Tyler Martin (Dominic Monaghan of “Lost”). To thank Chuck, Tyler takes him out on the town, which of course leads to trouble.
The episode’s B-story involves the always funny Morgan (Josh Gomez), who wins a pair of backstage passes to Tyler's show and runs a contest among Buy More employees, including Big Mike's (Mark Christopher Lawrence) old football buddy Jimmy (ex NFL player Jerome Bettis), to see who gets to go with him.
Series creator Josh Schwartz told the io9 Web site that one highlight of the 3D episode is seeing Jeff (Scott Krinsky) eat a urinal cake. Can't wait for that!
Fans can get the 3-D glasses for free at SoBe Lifewater displays at retail outlets such as K-Mart, Dollar General, CVS and Target (on Jan. 31). If you don’t want to hunt all over for them, call Pepsi at 1-800-646-2904 and they will send you the glasses.
Shame on NBC for delaying the return of so many shows. For my rant on the subject, click the link after the video below. For more on "Chuck," click here and here.
Posted at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15
Kathy Griffin loves her gays. Maybe that’s why she’ll be planning a gay wedding this spring.
The mouthy comic from Oak Park will guest star as Marco’s wedding planner on the season finale of CW’s “Privileged,” according to Zap2it.
Other recently announced casting coups?
Chevy Chase will appear in several episodes of “Chuck” as computer genius Ted Roark, nerdy spy Chuck’s hero, NBC says. The comedy legend and Chicago native will appear ins several episodes as the founder of Roark Instruments. Chuck (Zachary Levi) has worshiped Roark since he was a kid. But as is always the case on NBC’s excellent action-comedy, Roark and his company may be doing some nefarious work. NBC hasn’t set a date for Chase’s appearance.
Over at “The Office,” Idris Elba, probably more famous for his serious roles in such films as “RocknRolla” and “American Gangster,” will go for laughs as a Dunder-Mifflin coporate honcho who gives Steve Carell’s Michael Scott a hard time. NBC says Elba will appear in several episodes, but didn’t set a date.
Posted at 8:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 4
DON'T MISS THE MIDSEASON TV PHOTO GALLERY HERE.
OK, so the TV networks didn’t offer a whole lot to excite viewers last fall. And the shows that thrilled me either ended their runs (“The Shield”) or, sadly and annoyingly, were canceled (“Pushing Daisies” and “Eli Stone”). But the midseason is a time to recharge, so cable and broadcast networks are launching new shows and bringing back heavy hitters such as “Lost,” “American Idol,” and “24.”
Speaking of “24,” it’s been nearly two years since Jack Bauer saved America in 24 hours over 24 episodes. In honor of Jack’s return on Sunday, Jan. 11, I've compiled a list of 24 new and returning shows that have me--and should have viewers--eagerly anticipating the midseason.
LOST
8 p.m. Jan. 21, ABC
Where’s the island from which Jack, Kate and the rest of the Oceanic 6 escaped, you ask? A better question is when is the island?
BATTLESTAR GALACTICA
9 p.m. Jan. 16, Sci Fi
I’m not looking forward to the end of this awesome space opera; but I can’t wait for these final 10 episodes, when we’ll learn what happened to Earth and just exactly who Starbuck (Katee Sackhoff) is.
(Sackhoff says "[stuff] blows up and people die" in the final 10 episodes here. Read what Sackhoff said during Comic-Con here. Watch the "BSG" Webisodes.)
30 ROCK
8:30 p.m. Jan. 8, NBC
It’s true, Tina Fey can do no wrong. And the incredible cast of TV’s best comedy makes her look even better. Why should you watch "30 Rock"? Count the reasons here! Watch video clips of the newest episode with guest star Salma Hayek here.
FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS
9 p.m. Jan. 18, HBO
Kiwi musicians Jemaine (left) and Bret (right) are making sweet, hilarious music again—hopefully not for the last season. Read more about Season 2 here. Watch the Season 2 premiere online here.
CHUCK
7 p.m. Feb. 2, NBC
The nerdiest spy ever and his fake girlfriend (sexy Yvonne Strahovski) get even wackier with a 3-D episode.
Posted at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11
Secret agents are hot this TV season—as evidenced by yet another secret agent man on “My Own Worst Enemy,” debuting at 9 p.m. Monday on NBC.. Here’s a look at five current small-screen spies and the undercover agents of past TV shows who seem to have inspired them.
EDWARD ALBRIGHT
“My Own Worst Enemy,” NBC
Actor: Christian Slater
Dossier: Edward (above) speaks 13 languages, is trained to kill, works for a clandestine organization and has a split personality that gives him a cover.
Spy forebear: When Sydney Bristow’s personal and work lives intertwined on “Alias,” people died—and actress Jennifer Garner (right) pouted.
CHUCK BARTOWSKI
“Chuck,” NBC
Actor: Zachary Levi
Dossier: Bumbling nerd Chuck (right) isn’t trained as a spy, but this season he’s getting serious about becoming one with the help of top-of-her-game agent Sarah Walker (Yvonne Strahovski, right).
Spy forebear: Maxwell Smart (Don Adams, above left) of “Get Smart” was an actual secret agent, but you’d never know it by the way he stumbled through his cases. Agent 99 (Barbara Feldon, above left) bailed out Max all the time.
JACK BAUER
“24,” Fox
Actor: Kiefer Sutherland
Dossier: Jack Bauer (above) never met an enemy he didn’t want to torture—or a phone he didn’t like to scream into. Does "I need it NOW, Chloe!" sound familiar?
Spy forebear: No TV spy has used torture like Jack, but Vinnie Terranova (Ken Wahl, right) of “Wiseguy” tried to quit the Organized Crime Bureau as much as Jack has tried to leave Counter Terrorist Unit—always being sucked back in by another chance to kick ass.
MICHAEL WESTON
“Burn Notice,” USA
Actor: Jeffrey Donovan
Dossier: Spurned by his former government employers, Westen (above right) uses watches, cell phones and household products to create low-tech spy gadgets for use in his new spy-for-hire life.
Spy forebear: Angus MacGyver of “MacGyver” (above left) was well-known for his homemade gadgetry; he carried only a Swiss Army knife and duct tape.
MIKE TRACEUR
“Knight Rider,” NBC
Actor: Justin Bruening
Dossier: Ex-Army Ranger Mike Traceur drives a tricked-out KITT car (above) that's far more interesting than their adventures: It can change into a truck Transformers-style!
Spy forebear: Mike is the son of Michael Knight (David Hasselhoff, left), who drove an earlier model of the talking car/spy vehicle called KITT.
Photos courtesy NBC, USA, Fox, ABC and CBS
Posted at 9:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 29
CHUCK
7 p.m. Monday NBC
The scoop: Computer geek, super slacker and all-around good guy Chuck Bartowski (Zachary Levi) reluctantly works with CIA and NSA to stop evil around the world because he carries the U.S. government’s most important secrets—a computer program called The Intersect—in his brain. NSA agent John Casey (Adam Baldwin) and CIA agent Sarah Walker (Yvonne Strahovski) are tasked to protect Chuck.
Monday’s season premiere picks up with last season’s cliff-hanger: bad spy Colt (guest star Michael Clark Duncan) is dangling Chuck upside down from a building. He wants the Cipher, another computer program that has all the intel from Chuck’s brain and more.
The first three episodes center on the Cipher: If Chuck can save it, he will be free from the spy world and can move on with his life. To tell more would be to spoil things—and I so want you to enjoy these eps as I did.
What works: The cast is great—from Levi’s ability to play Chuck with self-deprecating humor as well as growing self-confidence to Baldwin’s deadpan delivery to Strahovski’s badass beauty to the funny supporting cast (Josh Gomez, Sarah Lancaster and Ryan McPartlin) that keeps us tuned in to Chuck’s real life.
The show also uses guest stars Duncan well. Next week John Larroquette plays a washed-up drunk of a spy and Melinda Clarke appears as a Russian “black widow.” Matthew Bomer returns as CIA agent Bryce Larkin, the man who downloaded The Intersect into Chuck’s brain and is the rival for Sarah’s affections.
What doesn’t: It all works for me—even the should-we or shouldn’t we romance between Chuck and Sarah.
Tune in or out? Comedy, action, pop-culture satire, mystery and romance—“Chuck” does a bit of everything and does it well. This season the writers ratchet up the action as well as the subtle but hilarious references to the spy genre—including very James Bond sounding theme music within the episodes. This was one of my top shows last season, and Season 2 “Chuck” is no different.
Posted at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, July 27, Cali time
Unfortunately I was unable to attend the panel discussion with the stars, creators and writers of the great adventure show "Chuck" at Comic-Con. (Damn those lines!) But I did stand next to star Zachary Levi in the hall for all of one second, said "Hey Captain Awesome" to Ryan McPartlin and spied Sarah Lancaster and Adam Baldwin.
NBC has provided some video fun of most of the cast. Here the Comic-Con virgin chats with Levi and Joshua Gomez. I was just beyond those windows, waiting in line for the "Fringe" panel:
More from Comic-Con 2008.
Posted at 4:45 p.m. Monday, June 30
Chuck Bartowski has a new pal—Hellboy. The nerd from NBC’s “Chuck” and the demon from the comics and movies have a lot in common: a love of video games and lunch boxes, crime fighting and the fact that the government watches their every move.
So it’s little wonder they’d hit it off playing video games in an ad for the film “Hellboy II: The Golden Army,” which opens nationwide on July 11. The clip is hilarious.
Posted at 12:15 p.m. Monday, June 9
Chuck (Zachary Levi) and Sarah (Yvonne Strahovski) might be moving in together.
Sounds like NBC’s accidental secret agent comedy “Chuck” is going to be twice as fun in the fall.
“It’s twice the action, twice the drama and twice the romance,” series star Zachary Levi told TV Guide on Sunday. “It’s Chuck squared.”
The show’s second season, TV Guide reports, will play with the theme of twos. “Chuck dies, twice,” Levi told the online magazine. “It’s crazy.”
Levi revealed some other developments that bode well for the always hilarious but ratings-challenged series (Translation: Watch it people!):
As previously reported, Tony Hale of “Arrested Development” will also play a recurring character on “Chuck.”
TV Guide reported a few weeks ago that Sarah might be moving in with Chuck now that Chuck’s sister, Ellie, and Captain Awesome are engaged.
Posted at 5:15 p.m. Tuesday, June 3
Great news for “Chuck” fans.
Tony Hale, who was hilarious as Buster Bluth on the dearly departed “Arrested Development,” will join NBC’s “Chuck” as a recurring character next season. Hale will play the new assistant manager of the Buy More store where Zachary Levi’s Chuck works. The show begins its second season in late September.
He’ll be busy too. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Hale also will have a recurring part on ABC’s “Samantha Who?,” playing Sam’s (Christina Applegate) new doctor, Andy Adams.
I already recommend both shows, but adding Hale to the mix should make them even funnier. Since "Arrested Development" ended, Hale appeared in some films and on the underappreciated and sadly short-lived "Andy Barker, P.I."
I'm happy he's making his way back to series TV.
Posted Sunday, Nov. 18, 2007
Rosie O'Donnell's return Tuesday as Dawn Budge on FX's "Nip/Tuck" isn't the only big guest star to turn up on TV this month. There are way too many to list here, but here are a few I've loved or look forward to watching.
Seth Green
"Grey's Anatomy" ABC Thursdays
On Nov. 22, the "Robot Chicken" creator plays a cranky patient named Nick who is treated by Drs. Sloan and Lexie Grey. In the Nov. 15 episode, D.B. Woodside guest starred as Dr. Bailey's high school crush--and latest patient.
Rachel Bilson
"Chuck" NBC Mondays
"The O.C." vet stars as Lou the sandwich maker, a new love interest for Chuck who may have ulterior motives for befriending our nerd-tastic hero. Matthew Bomer returns to the series on Nov. 26. To say more would be a spoiler.
Gaius Charles
"Law & Order: SVU" NBC Tuesdays
"Friday Night Lights" star Charles and ultimate fighter Forrest Griffin are suspects in a murder linked to an ultimate-fighting ring in the Nov. 20 episode.
Melinda Clarke
"Reaper" CW Tuesdays
Another vet of "The O.C.," Clarke is an audience favorite for her guest appearances on CBS' "CSI" as Lady Heather the dominatrix. On Nov. 20 she plays the Grim Reaper's mistress.
Victoria Beckham
"Ugly Betty" ABC Thursdays
Posh Spice blew into town to be Wilhelmina's maid-of-honor--until she took the limelight away from the bridezilla. Beckham isn't "Betty's" only recent guest. Mo'Nique, Freddy Rodriguez have appeared recently, and Eliza Dushku shows up on Nov. 22.
Steven Weber
"Brothers & Sisters" ABC Sundays
Weber follows up his guest roles on "Law & Order: SVU" and "Side Order of Life" as a businessman who takes Sarah to dinner. Chevy Chase and Lyle Lovett also turn up in the Nov. 25 episode. Danny Glover will also return soon. And as I predicted when "Viva Laughlin" was canceled, Eric Winter will be returning for the last few episodes written before the writers' strike began. He plays Jason, Kevin's missonary boyfriend who has been working in Malaysia.
Jenny McCarthy
"Two ad a Half Men" CBS Mondays
The former Playboy Playmate starred as a potential lover interest, or stepsister, to Charlie. Robert Wagner also appeared.
Heidi Klum and friends
"How I Met Your Mother" CBS Mondays
Klum, Miranda Kerr, Alessandra Ambrosio, Adriana Lima, Marisa Miller and Selita Ebanks play themselves in the Nov. 26 episode, which Barney no doubt will love.
Fankie Muniz
"Criminal Minds" CBS Wednesdays
The former "Malcolm in the Middle" plays a comic book artist who helps the team catch a serial killer on Nov. 28. Muniz's appearance follow Nicholas Brendan's guest spot as a computer expert on Nov. 21. Brendan, "Buffy" fans will know, played Xander on that show.
Kristen Bell
"Heroes" NBC Mondays
As Elle, the electricity-zapping psycho babe who's hot for Peter, Bell has ditched her "Veronica Mars" perkiness for a much more dastardly disposition. Sherri Shepherd
"30 Rock" NBC Thursdays
Al Gore, Edie Falco, Jerry Seinfeld and David Schwimmer may have gotten props for their appearances, but Shepherd's return as Tracy Jordan's bossy wife, Angela, got the laughs. Paul Reubens
"Pushing Daisies" ABC Wednesdays
The former Pee Wee Herman plays Oscar Vibenius, a suspect in a death caused by the explosion of a scratch-and-sniff book, in the Nov. 21 episode. It'll be difficult to top his appearance last season as Prince Gerhardt of Hapsburg on NBC's "30 Rock."
Eddie Cibrian
"Samantha Who?" ABC Mondays
Fresh off his clothing-optional guest stop on "Dirty Sexy Money," the dimpled one keeps his shirt on during Sam's first date since she developed amnesia. He'd do better wearing only that "DSM" towel again. Airing Nov. 26. Kelsey Grammer, David Hyde Pierce, John Mahoney
"The Simpsons" Fox Sundays
It's a "Frasier" family reunion on Nov. 25 when Grammer, Hyde Pierce and Mahoney voice Sideshow Bob, his brother Cecil and their father. Maybe Eddie the dog is a surprise guest.
