Here’s the transcript from my Oct. 1 live chat about TV. If questions or comments occur to you while reading, post them now for next week’s get-together.
Gail: Hi, everybody. Did you catch that grand slam by Chris Carpenter? Kind of wish he’d saved it for the playoffs. But I digress. We’re here to talk TV, not baseball, and I have tons of questions and comments — only half from Ms. April Lindsey, who has a lot on her mind today. So let’s get started, first with an issue that, justifiably, is annoying many people this week.
PamE: Happy October Gail!
I heard on the radio this morning that Channel 5 is not going to show the new episodes of “Parks and Recreation” and “SNL Weekend Update Thursday” tonight. They are showing Moms like Me and a Metromix informercial instead. Here we go again with the crazy programming decisions! I really enjoy Weekend Update. I am surprised they are even going to show “The Office”. How dare us for wanting to see the new programs!
Gail: Yes, that’s true — outrageous! I have never heard of a network affiliate preempting programming in the SECOND week of the new season. This is disrespectful both to viewers and to the network, which is struggling enough without having an hour bumped on competitive Thursday nights in the 21st largest television market.
Lauren: Gail,
Noticed that KSDK isn’t airing SNL Weekend Update Thursday or Parks & Rec tonight. Not a good sign of confidence from the affiliates for NBC’s “powerhouse night of comedy” (of course they wouldn’t dare pre-empt Leno…). I know I’ll be able to catch them tomorrow on Hulu (if I watch them at all), but didn’t know if you knew if they’d be showing them in the middle of the night or over the weekend.
Gail: It has nothing to do with a vote of confidence or no confidence for the shows preempted. It’s about getting the money from the infomercials. I know what let’s do — let’s watch all NBC shows on Hulu and teach KSDK a lesson. The bumped shows are scheduled to air at 1 and 1:30 a.m. Monday (late Sunday), but what are the odds they’ll really start on time?
Stevie B: Once again thank you very much channel 5 for looking out for us viewers by pre-emptying NEW programming THREE WEEKS in to the new season! I’m glad you contracted with an out of state company that has affiliations with 36 other cities to let me know what events are going on this weekend. Not like I could pick up a free RFT. I’m sure the topical material presented in the SNL Weekend Update Thursday won’t be just as funny and relavent say Sunday night at 2:30 in the morning or something! Sheesh!
Sorry for the rant Gail, but I feel better now.
Gail: Again, not about content. About money. Have you called over there to complain? You can learn from the “Contact KSDK” section of the website that Channel 5’s main switchboard number is 314-421-5055 and that the number for the news desk, which is always staffed, is 444-5125.
majigail: My DVR says that KSDK has Moms Like Me and Metromix on tonight instead of Parks and Recreation and SNL Thursday.
A. Is it crazy?
B. If it’s not crazy, when will Parks and SNL actually be on?
C. Why are they doing this to me?
A. Is it crazy?
B. If it’s not crazy, when will Parks and SNL actually be on?
C. Why are they doing this to me?
Gail: Your DVR is never crazy, and they are clearly doing it to torture you.
I checked this morning, and my DVR has picked up “Parks and Recreation,” which I’m trying to like and in fact am liking better, at 1:30 a.m. Monday. I don’t record “SNL,” but I’m sure if you had them set as series recordings, the DVR is on top of it.
I checked this morning, and my DVR has picked up “Parks and Recreation,” which I’m trying to like and in fact am liking better, at 1:30 a.m. Monday. I don’t record “SNL,” but I’m sure if you had them set as series recordings, the DVR is on top of it.
teamramrod: KSDK sure seems to have gone off a cliff the last few years! More of a hypothetical question: If KSDK continues their shenanigans, what are the odds that NBC drops their network affiation? How bad would things have to get for NBC to get to that point?
Gail: Hypothetical answer: If NBC were to drop KSDK as a network affiliate, where would they go? If KDNL hasn’t pushed ABC over the edge in all these years, it’s unlikely that NBC will break up with KSDK. For one thing, a certain number of preemptions are built into the contract with the network. Stations usually discuss what slot they’ll be preempting with the network, too. I can’t imagine NBC would have been happy, but again — would they try to bump MyNetworkTV from WRBU? Get cozy with Larry Rice on KNLC?
rich: Gail: You’re a big fan of “Mad Man” as am I. However don’t you feel the shows this season have been dragged down a little by the story line on Don’s little daughter? It seems the show moves faster and has a better storyline when it stays on the office personal and the office in general.
thks
Tim
Gail: No, I’m fascinated by little Sally (a fine actress, by the way) and the stories around her. I’ve found this season brilliant and am baffled by complaints that it’s slow — really, it’s “Mad Men,” not “CSI: Miami.” But let’s let Ms. April Lindsey weigh in here.
alindsey: Hey Gail! I love the new season, so much good stuff to watch. Concerning Mad Men comments that it’s a slow season…it’s absolutely the best show on television now (new or repeat). It forces you to think and put pieces of the puzzle together as you watch. It takes a skillful writer and actor to make those sharp one-liners mean so much more. How about when Don says a snake will go months without eating only to suffocate when he finally gets a mouse? Didn’t that describe Don perfectly; he takes his time even when anxious. I love how he simply gets up and walks out of meetings when they’re ridiculous. Each scene builds on the last again and again. It’s intelligent television!
Gail: You are correct, ma’am.
Stephanie: Hey Gail,
I watched the premiere of Flash Forward last week and was surprised to see Peyton List aka Jane Sterling from Mad Men. Please tell me she is gone for good from MM and Joan’s pathetic dr. husband will be hit by a bus so Joan can be with Roger Sterling. How else are they going to get Joan back in the firm?
I watched the premiere of Flash Forward last week and was surprised to see Peyton List aka Jane Sterling from Mad Men. Please tell me she is gone for good from MM and Joan’s pathetic dr. husband will be hit by a bus so Joan can be with Roger Sterling. How else are they going to get Joan back in the firm?
Gail: Peyton List is a regular on “FlashForward” and has just a small recurring role on “Mad Men.” The assumption is that she can do both, as long as Roger is infatuated with Jane, but if not — there’s always the recast. Have you noticed there’s a new Bobby Draper every season?
suzyjax: I couldn’t sleep last night so I got up and watched GLEE on the DVR. Was I just half awake? Or, did they change the name of the school from West Something-or-other to McKinley?
Gail: It’s always been McKinley. I think West Whatever is the rival school with the great show choir.
Were you awake enough to enjoy the episode fully? I think it was maybe the best of the series — and Kristin Chenoweth!
Were you awake enough to enjoy the episode fully? I think it was maybe the best of the series — and Kristin Chenoweth!
Mel: I just wanted to post to let Joan know Man vs. Food has new episodes at 9 p.m. Wednesday. It started about a month ago, maybe longer and I think it is wrapping up the season. Not sure if she has DVR, but she could tape it for ‘new episodes’ only and then all the new ones will tape, but not the repeats. I catch Diners, Drive-ins and Dives sometimes and I know they are not new ones. I haven’t seen a repeat yet; however, I don’t watch it every day either. From the website it looks like it is on at 9 and 9:30 p.m. Monday; 8 and 8:30 p.m. Friday and 2 and 2:30 p.m. Sunday; however, I’m not sure if those are new episodes or not. Not sure if I helped but I tried.
Gail: Thanks for your help. I hope Joan (from last week) checks in.
wgmartin: Just to re-touch on the last chat’s mentions of repeat showings
of network programs on Friday & Saturday nights:
of network programs on Friday & Saturday nights:
What is really annoying is that the networks are taking these
slots and wasting them showing old repeats from a year or more
ago, instead of using them to show a repeat-airing of the new
season’s openers. CBS threw away their CSI-repeat hour last
week on an old episode when they could have easily re-shown
the season premiere, which I (& Lord knows how many others)
had to miss due to conflicts.
They’ve paid for the new program — why not get some more out of
it with a repeat while the “new-season” buzz is still active?
Gail: It always has to do with the licensing deal between the network and the studio that owns the show. Sometimes they’re the same, which is easier. Don’t have an explanation for why sometimes the repeats are older episodes and other times they’re brand new, but I did notice that this Saturday’s repeats of “Law & Order” and “SVU” on NBC are this week’s episodes. However, the “CSI: NY” and “Criminal Minds” episodes aren’t. Interesting.
alindsey: What’s up with 30 Rock being MIA? Is it moving to a different day because how will they fit it in with Office, Community and Leno? I like Leno, by the way–he IS funny, he’s trying so hard and he’s such a wonderful person that I want him to success.
Gail: “30 Rock” returns Oct. 15 (two weeks from tonight) on NBC. I have the episode in hand and will watch it over the weekend. The plan is: “Community,” “P&R,” “The Office” and “30 Rock.” (“SNL” is a temp.) Oh, and by the way, Jim and Pam’s wedding on “The Office” is next Thursday.
I’m sure Jay Leno appreciates your support. I find his show unwatchable, though.
I’m sure Jay Leno appreciates your support. I find his show unwatchable, though.
Mark: I notice Eastwick isn’t getting much buzz. It’s a bit corny and predictable but the writing and production are pretty solid. It would be a shame if it were lost behind all the new shows trying so hard to be quirky and controversial.
Gail: I gave “Eastwick” a pretty good review, but after two episodes, I’m not under its spell. It’s doing OK in the ratings so far.
karen baldwin: what is going on with Leverage..?? why is Sophie off the show?will she be back?
Gail: Wow, there sure are a lot of shows out there. But I learn from the Internet that the actress who played Sophie just had a baby. Whether the character will return is a mystery.
Bert: Hey Gail, I just love the deep, action, serious shows, like Fringe and Sons of Anarchy. Flashforward looks like it may join my list. How is it being reviewed, and how are the ratings?
Gail: Early “FlashForward” ratings are great, and when I queried viewers on Tube Talk, their reviews were all positive. Most (paid) reviewers also gave it a thumb’s up. I’m hoping it holds up and gets just a skosh less complicated as the season progresses.
michele: Gail:
Are there any plans to possibly have a “wrap-up” episode or movie to finish the show Life? I can’t believe it was cancelled-great show! But now we don’t how the story was to end!
Gail: No, sorry; it’s over. Make up your own ending, I guess.
alindsey: Did you love Amazing Race or what?!? Loved the Globetrotter guys, they’re hilarious and so positive. One of the few shows hubby and kid can watch together–such a treat! That game show chick saying, “Eat the Wasabi” made us laugh every time. Once again my DVR missed the last 10 min b/c of sports. DVR is already jammed with Mad Men/Desperate Housewives/Curb around the same time so it’s hard to record the next show. How long with that darn delay go on? What’d I miss?
Gail: We’ve been discussing “TAR” on Tube Talk; jump in there.
But seriously — haven’t you figured out DVR management? You have to record “Cold Case” after “TAR.” Record “DH” (if you must) at the same time as “Cold Case.” Watch “Curb Your Enthusiasm” on demand. And catch the “Mad Men” that airs at 10 p.m. Sundays, immediately after the first airing. Always put cable shows low on your priority list, and then the DVR will automatically grab a later airing.
But seriously — haven’t you figured out DVR management? You have to record “Cold Case” after “TAR.” Record “DH” (if you must) at the same time as “Cold Case.” Watch “Curb Your Enthusiasm” on demand. And catch the “Mad Men” that airs at 10 p.m. Sundays, immediately after the first airing. Always put cable shows low on your priority list, and then the DVR will automatically grab a later airing.
Mel: It seems there are more great comedy shows than drama shows, but just last season I feel it was the opposite (with more great drama shows than comedy). Do you think this is what viewers want more — the 30 minute comedy — since we are living in such a fast-paced world? Are the execs thinking we may not be able to get someone to watch a full hour but we can maybe pull them in for 30 minutes? Do you think dramas may turn in to 30 minutes with everyone always on the go? This is something I noticed this season, who knows maybe next season the drama shows will be back in full swing. I just wanted to see what your thoughts are. Thanks!
Gail: That was the whole theme of my fall preview, that comedies are making a comeback. I don’t think it has anything to do with viewer taste so much as with the fact that writers finally came up with some fresh ideas. But no, I don’t think dramas will cut back, and yes, I do think what goes around on TV always comes around.
EvaBluesFan: Gail,
I wanted to say a BIG thank you for your Fall Guide which appeared in the Post on September 6. I have it right next to my remote, and it’s helped me wade through the jungle of new shows. Am loving Glee, The Good Wife and Eastwick, so far.
I am thoroughly surprised by all the panning of Mercy (and I waited to view the 2nd episode before commenting). I like Hawthorne, but I am loving Mercy – as are several of my friends. The tiny scenes with Kate Mulgrew and Peter Gerity are priceless – and the show is fun and interesting. Perhaps I am just a sucker for alcoholic Irish dysfunction 
Gail: I’m so proud of you for using my fall TV preview as it was meant to be used. So I won’t raise my eyebrows too high over your fondness for “Mercy.” Eek! Then again, I don’t like “Hawthorne” either.
evanbenn: Hi, Gail,
I caught the repeated premiere last night of NBC’s “Trauma,” and I must say, I am traumatized — weak writing, bad acting and subpar special effects. A streetside “ER” this is not. Have you seen it? What is NBC thinking?
I caught the repeated premiere last night of NBC’s “Trauma,” and I must say, I am traumatized — weak writing, bad acting and subpar special effects. A streetside “ER” this is not. Have you seen it? What is NBC thinking?
Gail: Horrible, horrible show — obnoxious characters, trite writing and things blowing up. However: the helicopter crash was cool.
By the way, I have a look at the networks’ three new medical shows, and what might set them apart from one another, in Sunday’s A&E section.
By the way, I have a look at the networks’ three new medical shows, and what might set them apart from one another, in Sunday’s A&E section.
PamE: Thanks for the recommendation to watch “Modern Family”. It is a really good show so far. I watched Patricia Heaton’s new show last night and thought it was okay. Have you seen any more episodes and does it get better?
Gail: “The Middle” makes me laugh. It’s broad, but in a “Malcolm in the Middle” way that amuses me. I wouldn’t put it on the same level as “Modern Family,” but it could be a keeper. Just wish they were paired, rather than stuck in a block with the hideous “Hank” and embarrassing “Cougar Town.”
Bert: Hey Gail, daytime playoff Cardinals baseball next week, can’t wait.
When do Lost and 24 return?
When do Lost and 24 return?
Gail: I’m watching day baseball right now. Cardinals 10; Reds 0.
“24″ is back in January, as always, probably for its last season. “Lost” is expected back in February for what’s definitely its final season.
Oh, wait, it’s 12-0 now.
“24″ is back in January, as always, probably for its last season. “Lost” is expected back in February for what’s definitely its final season.
Oh, wait, it’s 12-0 now.
Jane: Gail, I confess to a crush on hunky Finn on “Glee.” But I don’t believe he can sing. Do you think he really does?
Also, the funniest thing on that show is Jane Lynch. Why don’t they use her every week? Is it because her character is too one-dimensional?
Gail: Everybody on “Glee” really sings, I’m told. On “The View” yesterday, Cory Monteith, who plays Finn, said he’s a drummer but hadn’t really sung or danced before the show. Sometimes the lip-syncing seems off, on all the characters, but because they’re releasing all the tracks on iTunes, they do record in the studio, and swear there are no ghost-singers.
I think they’re using Jane Lynch just right. In bigger doses, she’d be too much of a caricature. In small ones, she’s zesty seasoning.
Ryan: Great work Gail.
-For those of us who do not have HBO, will there be any way to watch the current Curb Your Enthusiasm episodes, maybe online or on-demand?
-What are you hearing about “V?” I’ve heard they keep delaying the premiere, is that a sign that the show isn’t good? I was excited about it.
-Will Heroes be cancelled? We’ve been watching this season (gluttons for punishment I guess) and I know that ratings are the lowest of the series.
-Lastly, how about a happy birthday to my wife Amanda, she’s your biggest fan in St. Louis.
Gail: * Thanks!
* Now, if HBO let you watch on demand or online, why would you subscribe to HBO? That’s why premium cable networks make original shows, to get you to subscribe.
* I’m hearing “V” is “troubled.” Don’t know if that’s true or not. All I’ve seen so far is a clip reel.
* “Heroes” ratings are really bad, although either the show’s a little better this season or I’m fooling myself because I like Robert Knepper so much. Cancellation would be no surprise, although I’d expect NBC to let the season run out because they have nothing else.
* Happy birthday, Amanda! I’m sending you a virtual cupcake with a virtual candle.
* Now, if HBO let you watch on demand or online, why would you subscribe to HBO? That’s why premium cable networks make original shows, to get you to subscribe.
* I’m hearing “V” is “troubled.” Don’t know if that’s true or not. All I’ve seen so far is a clip reel.
* “Heroes” ratings are really bad, although either the show’s a little better this season or I’m fooling myself because I like Robert Knepper so much. Cancellation would be no surprise, although I’d expect NBC to let the season run out because they have nothing else.
* Happy birthday, Amanda! I’m sending you a virtual cupcake with a virtual candle.
Frank: I really liked your sign-off last week in tribute to Bob Barker’s close of “The Price is Right” each episode. Are you planning on using that one each week or maybe a different one each week in tribute to other classic show sign offs? Good Night and Good Luck!
Gail: I had no plans, but I’ll contemplate it.
And now that I’ve gone seven minutes over –
And now that I’ve gone seven minutes over –
Thank you, and here’s my address.
gpennington@post-dispatch.com
www.stltoday.com/tubetalk
