Primetime Emmy Nominations announced!

The Primetime Emmy nominations were just announced.  As usual there were some snubs.  No love for Parenthood or Southland.  No surprises really.  Check out the nominees below.    The awards will be handed out on Sunday, September 23rd, 2012.

Outstanding Comedy Series

The Big Bang Theory • CBS • Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television

Curb Your Enthusiasm • HBO • HBO Entertainment

Girls • HBO • Apatow Productions and I am Jenni Konner Productions in association with HBO Entertainment

Modern Family • ABC • Levitan-Lloyd Productions in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television

30 Rock • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Television

Veep • HBO • Dundee Productions in association with HBO Entertainment

Outstanding Lead Actress In A Comedy Series

Girls • HBO • Apatow Productions and I am Jenni Konner Productions in association with HBO Entertainment

Lena Dunham as Hannah Horvath

Mike & Molly • CBS • Bonanza Productions, Inc. in association with Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc. and Warner Bros. Television

Melissa McCarthy as Molly Flynn

New Girl • FOX • Chernin Entertainment in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television

Zooey Deschanel as Jess Day

Nurse Jackie • Showtime • Showtime Presents, Lionsgate Television, Jackson Group Entertainment, Madison Grain Elevator, Inc. & Delong Lumber, A Caryn Mandabach Production

Edie Falco as Jackie Peyton

Parks And Recreation • NBC • Deedle-Dee Productions, Fremulon, 3 Arts and Universal Television

Amy Poehler as Leslie Knope

30 Rock • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Television

Tina Fey as Liz Lemon

Veep • HBO • Dundee Productions in association with HBO Entertainment

Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Selina Meyer

Outstanding Lead Actor In A Comedy Series

The Big Bang Theory • CBS • Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television

Jim Parsons as Sheldon Cooper

Curb Your Enthusiasm • HBO • HBO Entertainment

Larry David as Himself

House Of Lies • Showtime • Showtime Presents, Crescendo Productions, Totally Commercial Films, Refugee Productions, Matthew Carnahan Circus Products

Don Cheadle as Marty Kaan

Louie • FX Networks • Pig Newton, Inc. in association with FX Productions

Louis C.K. as Louie

30 Rock • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Television

Alec Baldwin as Jack Donaghy

Two And A Half Men • CBS • Chuck Lorre Productions Inc., The Tannenbaum Company in association with Warner Bros. Television

Jon Cryer as Alan Harper

Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Comedy Series

The Big Bang Theory • CBS • Chuck Lorre Productions, Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television

Mayim Bialik as Amy Farrah Fowler

Desperate Housewives • ABC • ABC Studios

Kathryn Joosten as Karen McCluskey

Modern Family • ABC • Levitan-Lloyd Productions in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television

Julie Bowen as Claire Dunphy

Modern Family • ABC • Levitan-Lloyd Productions in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television

Sofia Vergara as Gloria Delgado-Pritchett

Nurse Jackie • Showtime • Showtime Presents, Lionsgate Television, Jackson Group Entertainment, Madison Grain Elevator, Inc. & Delong Lumber, A Caryn Mandabach Production

Merritt Wever as Zoey Barkow

Saturday Night Live • NBC • SNL Studios in association with Universal Television and Broadway Video

Kristen Wiig as various characters

Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Comedy Series

Modern Family • ABC • Levitan-Lloyd Productions in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television

Ed O'Neill as Jay Pritchett

Modern Family • ABC • Levitan-Lloyd Productions in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television

Jesse Tyler Ferguson as Mitchell Pritchett

Modern Family • ABC • Levitan-Lloyd Productions in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television

Ty Burrell as Phil Dunphy

Modern Family • ABC • Levitan-Lloyd Productions in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television

Eric Stonestreet as Cameron Tucker

New Girl • FOX • Chernin Entertainment in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television

Max Greenfield as Schmidt

Saturday Night Live • NBC • SNL Studios in association with Universal Television and Broadway Video

Bill Hader as various characters

Outstanding Guest Actress In A Comedy Series

Glee • FOX • Ryan Murphy Productions in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television

Dot-Marie Jones as Coach Shannon Beiste

Saturday Night Live • NBC • SNL Studios in association with Universal Television and Broadway Video

Maya Rudolph, Host

Saturday Night Live • NBC • SNL Studios in association with Universal Television and Broadway Video

Melissa McCarthy, Host

30 Rock • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Television

Elizabeth Banks as Avery Jessup

30 Rock • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Television

Margaret Cho as Kim Jong-il

Two And A Half Men • CBS • Chuck Lorre Productions Inc., The Tannenbaum Company in association with Warner Bros. Television

Kathy Bates as Charlie Harper

Outstanding Guest Actor In A Comedy Series

Curb Your Enthusiasm • HBO • HBO Entertainment

Michael J. Fox as Himself

Modern Family • ABC • Levitan-Lloyd Productions in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television

Greg Kinnear as Tad

Nurse Jackie • Showtime • Showtime Presents, Lionsgate Television, Jackson Group Entertainment, Madison Grain Elevator, Inc. & Delong Lumber, A Caryn Mandabach Production

Bobby Cannavale as Dr. Mike Cruz

Saturday Night Live • NBC • SNL Studios in association with Universal Television and Broadway Video

Jimmy Fallon, Host

30 Rock • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Television

Will Arnett as Devon Banks

30 Rock • NBC • Broadway Video, Little Stranger, Inc. in association with Universal Television

Jon Hamm as Abner and David Brinkley

Outstanding Drama Series

Boardwalk Empire • HBO • Leverage, Closest to the Hole Productions, Sikelia Productions and Cold Front Productions in association with HBO Entertainment

Breaking Bad • AMC • Sony Pictures Television

Downton Abbey • PBS • A Carnival / Masterpiece Co-Production

Game Of Thrones • HBO • Bighead, Littlehead, Generator Productions,

Television 360, and Grok Television in association with HBO Entertainment

Homeland • Showtime • Showtime Presents, Teakwood Lane Productions, Cherry Pie Productions, Keshet, Fox 21

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television

Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series

Damages • DirecTV • Sony Pictures Television, FX Productions and KZK

Productions

Glenn Close as Patty Hewes

Downton Abbey • PBS • A Carnival / Masterpiece Co-Production

Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Crawley

The Good Wife • CBS • CBS Television Studios in association with Scott Free Productions and King Size Productions

Julianna Margulies as Alicia Florrick

Harry's Law • NBC • Bonanza Productions in association with David E. Kelley Productions and Warner Bros. Television

Kathy Bates as Harriet Korn

Homeland • Showtime • Showtime Presents, Teakwood Lane Productions, Cherry Pie Productions, Keshet, Fox 21

Claire Danes as Carrie Mathison

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television

Elisabeth Moss as Peggy Olson

Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series

Boardwalk Empire • HBO • Leverage, Closest to the Hole Productions, Sikelia Productions and Cold Front Productions in association with HBO Entertainment

Steve Buscemi as Nucky Thompson

Breaking Bad • AMC • Sony Pictures Television

Bryan Cranston as Walter White

Dexter • Showtime • Showtime Presents, John Goldwyn Productions, The Colleton Company, Devilina Productions

Michael C. Hall as Dexter Morgan

Downton Abbey • PBS • A Carnival / Masterpiece Co-Production

Hugh Bonneville as Robert, Earl of Grantham

Homeland • Showtime • Showtime Presents, Teakwood Lane Productions, Cherry Pie Productions, Keshet, Fox 21

Damian Lewis as Nicholas Brody

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television

Jon Hamm as Don Draper

Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama Series

Breaking Bad • AMC • Sony Pictures Television

Anna Gunn as Skyler White

Downton Abbey • PBS • A Carnival / Masterpiece Co-Production

Maggie Smith as Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham

Downton Abbey • PBS • A Carnival / Masterpiece Co-Production

Joanne Froggatt as Anna

The Good Wife • CBS • CBS Television Studios in association with Scott Free Productions and King Size Productions

Archie Panjabi as Kalinda Sharma

The Good Wife • CBS • CBS Television Studios in association with Scott Free Productions and King Size Productions

Christine Baranski as Diane Lockhart

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television

Christina Hendricks as Joan Holloway Harris

Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series

Breaking Bad • AMC • Sony Pictures Television

Aaron Paul as Jesse Pinkman

Breaking Bad • AMC • Sony Pictures Television

Giancarlo Esposito as Gustavo 'Gus' Fring

Downton Abbey • PBS • A Carnival / Masterpiece Co-Production

Brendan Coyle as John Bates

Downton Abbey • PBS • A Carnival / Masterpiece Co-Production

Jim Carter as Mr. Carson

Game Of Thrones • HBO • Bighead, Littlehead, Generator Productions,

Television 360, and Grok Television in association with HBO Entertainment

Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television

Jared Harris as Lane Pryce

Outstanding Guest Actress In A Drama Series

The Good Wife • CBS • CBS Television Studios in association with Scott Free Productions and King Size Productions

Martha Plimpton as Patti Nyholm

Grey's Anatomy • ABC • ABC Studios

Loretta Devine as Adele Webber

Harry's Law • NBC • Bonanza Productions in association with David E. Kelley Productions and Warner Bros. Television

Jean Smart as D.A. Roseanna Remmick

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television

Julia Ormond as Marie Calvet

Shameless • Showtime • Showtime Presents, John Wells Productions, Warner Bros. Television

Joan Cusack as Sheila Jackson

Smash • NBC • Universal Television in association with DreamWorks Television and Madwoman in the Attic

Uma Thurman as Rebecca Duvall

Outstanding Guest Actor In A Drama Series

Breaking Bad • AMC • Sony Pictures Television

Mark Margolis as Tio Salamanca

The Good Wife • CBS • CBS Television Studios in association with Scott Free Productions and King Size Productions

Dylan Baker as Colin Sweeney

The Good Wife • CBS • CBS Television Studios in association with Scott Free Productions and King Size Productions

Michael J. Fox as Louis Canning

Justified • FX Networks • Sony Pictures Television

Jeremy Davies as Dickie Bennett

Mad Men • AMC • Lionsgate Television

Ben Feldman as Michael Ginsberg

Parenthood • NBC • Imagine Television and Universal Television

Jason Ritter as Mark Cyr

My Emmy Wish List!

It's that time of the year again everyone.  The Primetime Emmy nominations will be announced tomorrow.  Every year I like to go over who I would like to see be recognized for their work.  In most of the categories, the nominees are pretty easy to predict.  But this is who I would like to see nominated in each of the major categories.  So here we go!

Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series


Who I think will be nominated:  Ty Burrell - Modern Family, Eric Stonestreet - Modern Family, Ed O'Neill - Modern Family, Nick Offerman - Parks and Recreation, and Jesse Tyler Ferguson - Modern Family.

My Wish to be nominated:  In this category, I would love to see Kunal Nayyar from the Big Bang Theory get nominated.  His portrayal of Raj has gotten to be the best part of this very funny network comedy.  Jason Segel from How I Met Your Mother would also be a nice surprise to see get a nomination here.

Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

Who I think will be nominated:  Julie Bowen - Modern Family, Sofia Vergara - Modern Family, Betty White - Hot In Cleveland, Kristen Wiig - Saturday Night Live.


My Wish to be nominated:  The 5th nominee in this category is up for grabs.  It could be Cheryl Hines for Suburgatory, or Alison Brie from Community.  However, I'm hoping for Alyson Hannigan from How I Met Your Mother.  HIMYM had one of its best seasons this year and Hannigan proved to be Emmy worthy with a great comedic performance.

Best Actor in a Comedy Series


Who I think will be nominated:  Jim Parsons - The Big Bang Theory, Alec Baldwin - 30 Rock, Louis C.K., - Louie, Larry David - Curb Your Enthusiasm.

My Wish to be nominated:  A very long shot here, but I would really like to see Tim Allen from Last Man Standing get a nominated.  A very underrated show and in my opinion a very underrated comedic actor.  Will Arnett from Up All Night would also be nice to see here.

Best Actress in a Comedy Series


Who I think will be nominated:  Amy Poehler - Parks and Recreation, Tina Fey - 30 Rock, Julia Louis Dreyfus - Veep, Melissa McCarthy - Mike and Molly, Laura Dern - Enlightened.

My Wish to be nominated:  Kat Dennings from 2 Broke Girls.  Yes the show is crude, but its also very funny.

Best Support Actor in a Drama Series


Who I think will be nominated:  Peter Dinklage - Game of Thrones, Giancarlo Esposito - Breaking Bad, Aaron Paul - Breaking Bad,  John Slattery - Mad Men, Mandy Patinkin - Homeland.


My Wish to be nominated:  My wish nominee here is truly just a wish, because I would be very surprised if any of the above actors are NOT nominated.    But my wish here is Jonathan Banks for Breaking Bad.  His character of Mike is my favorite character on the show.  His performance is just perfect in every way. I've been a fan of Banks from his days as McPike on Wiseguy and i'm so glad to see him back on TV's best drama.

Best Support Actress in a Drama Series


Who I think will be nominated:  Christina Hendricks - Mad Men, Maggie Smith - Downton Abbey, Anna Gunn - Breaking Bad, Christine Baranski - The Good Wife, Archie Panjabi - The Good Wife.

My Wish to be nominated:  Erika Christensen - Parenthood.  Parenthood is the most underrated drama on television and one of the best.  Christensen's performance as Julia was so heartfelt, as are all of the performances on this show.  Her scenes at the end of the season where her character realized that the adoption she had been planning all season was not going to happen were truly heartwrenching.

Best Actress in a Drama Series


Who I think will be nominated:  Claire Danes - Homeland, Elisabeth Moss - Mad Men, Julianna Margulies - The Good Wife, Glenn Close - Damages.

My Wish to be nominated:  Another category where the 5th nominee is very hard to predict.  My wish nominee is Mireille Enos from The Killing.  Her rock solid performance as Detective Sarah Linden was the glue that held this series together.  The show lost its way at times, but Enos was always on target.

Best Actor in a Drama Series


Who I think will be nominated:  Bryan Cranston - Breaking Bad, Jon Hamm - Mad Men, Damian Lewis - Homeland, Steve Buscemi - Boardwalk Empire, Kelsey Grammer - Boss.

My Wish to be nominated:  Easily the toughest category of the night.   I'd be very surprised if Bryan Cranston doesn't walk away with his 4th Emmy.   But, just look at the names that will most likely miss out on a nomination here.  Hugh Laurie, Dustin Hoffman, and Kiefer Sutherland, to name a few.  I actually have 2 wish nominees here.  My first one is Peter Krause from Parenthood.  As with Erika Christensen, Krause performance as Adam Braverman was never better.  His character struggled with being the parent of a child with Aspergers, while fighting to save his new business at the same.  Krause was funny, touching, and tough all at the same time.  My other wish nominee here is Denis Leary from Rescue Me.  It really is a shame that Leary never won and Emmy for his role as Tommy Gavin, the very troubled, alcoholic firefighter who battled his demons throughout the series, all the while dealing with the memories of 9/11.  This will be the Academy's last chance to nominate Leary for this role.

Best Comedy Series


Who I think will be nominated:  Modern Family, 30 Rock, Parks and Recreation, The Big Bang Theory, Curb Your Enthusiasm.

My Wish to be nominated:  My wish nominee here is How I Met Your Mother.  In my opinion the show had its best season this year.  It was every bit as good as likely nominee Big Bang Theory this season and it boast one of the best casts of any comedy on television.

Best Drama Series


Who I think will be nominated:  Breaking Bad, Homeland, Mad Men, Game of Thrones, Boardwalk Empire, Downton Abbey.


My Wish to be nominated:  My wish nominees here are the same as in the Best Actor category.  Parenthood and Rescue Me.  Parenthood is one of the best and most overlooked dramas on network television.  No series has more heart and the top notch cast delivers week after week.   Rescue Me is a show that I didn't think I would say should get a nomination.  It really faltered in its middle seasons, but its final season was one of its best and made us remember why Rescue Me was once one of TV's best dramas.

'Cougar Town' renewed, moves to TBS

'Cougar Town' has been renewed, but not by ABC.  Cable network TBS has ordered a 4th season of the show to begin airing in early 2013.

TBS has also purchased the rights to the first 61 episodes of the show that originally aired on ABC.

"Cougar Town is a smart, whimsical sitcom that draws its humor from likable, relatable characters." said Michael Wright, President, Head of Programming for TBS.  "We are thrilled to have Cougar Town moving to the TBS neighborhood as the network continues to expand its slate of original comedy series."

The program, which made its third-season debut in midseason, has been adequate in a Tuesday timeslot following "Last Man Standing" but was not expected to be part of ABC's 2012-13 plans.

Fox renews 'Touch,' cancels 'Alcatraz' and 'The Finder'

Fox has announced that is has renewed 'Touch' for a second season, but has cancelled 'Alcatraz' and 'The Finder.'

'Touch' is being given a chance by Fox despite so-so ratings.  Fox has a long relationship with the shows star Kiefer Sutherland from his days on '24,' so this likely played into the decision.

The show, about a widower who struggles to connect with his mute son who has unique abilities, seemed enough to propel the drama into a hit for Fox.    The series previewed in January after 'American Idol' and drew 12 million viewers.   It seemed to retain much of the viewership when it returned 2 months later in its regular Thursday time slot.  But it has since seen its numbers fall.

The 10 Best Shows of 2011

TV had its ups and downs in 2011.  It had it's failures, like 'Pan Am,' 'Charlies Angels,' and Charlie Sheen.  But it also had its success stories, the welcome return of Tim Allen to prime time TV in 'Last Man Standing' and the continued dominance of cable TV as a provider of top notch television.  2011 was a great year for TV.    Here are, in my opinion, the 10 best shows of the year:

10.  Men of A Certain Age - TNT - I was extremely disappointed to see this show go.  A well written, well acted comedy-drama about 3 middle-aged friends expertly played by Ray Romano, Scott Bakula, and Andre Braugher.  One of the most underrated shows of the last few year.  Sadly TNT cancelled it after its 2nd season concluded.


9.  How I Met Your Mother - CBS - I'm not sure why this show doesn't get as much appreciation from the critics.  In my opinion, it is still one of TV's strongest comedies.  Consistently funny and a great cast.  With all of the Charlie Sheen nonsense that went on earlier this year, this show became overlooked for the steady performer that it is. 


8.  Rescue Me - FX - This very dark, often hilarious show ended its 7 year run with a superb season.  Denis Leary's 93 episode turn as Tommy Gavin, a NYC Firefighter whose life was forever changed by 9/11 stands as one of the best and most underrated performances in the last 10 years.


7.  Curb Your Enthusiasm - HBO - Larry David took his act to New York for season 7 and the laughs just kept on coming.  From Michael J. Fox as Larry's newest adversary, to the Palestinian Chicken episode, Larry David showed this show still has a lot of life left in it.  


6.  Southland - TNT - Nothing has been done more on TV than cop shows.  But every once in a while once comes along that has staying power.  Over the years we've seen shows like 'Hill Street Blues,' 'Wiseguy,' '24,' and 'The Shield' as unique drama series that left a lasting mark on TV.  'Southland' still has a way to go before it matches the status of the aforementioned series, but right now it is hands down the best cop show on TV.  


5.  Parenthood - NBC - Now in it's 3rd season, this family drama keeps getting better and better.  It boasts the best ensemble cast on the 4 major networks.   Peter Krause and Monica Potter's attempts to connect with their autistic son give this show a healthy dose of realism and heart.   It's so rare for a show to evoke such emotion week after week, but Parenthood succeeds on every level.


4.  Modern Family - ABC - In just it's 3rd season, Modern Family has become the gold standard for TV comedy.  The show never fails to produce laughs, each and every episode.    Ty Burrell continues to amaze and has become the best comedic actor on TV.  


3.  Boardwalk Empire - HBO - This series started as a show about bootlegging and corruption in Prohibition era Atlantic City, but is has evolved into a study of what people will do to survive and the ways that they will justify their behavior.  This series has grown better as each season has progressed and ended season 2 with a big shock that few shows have the guts to make.


2.  Homeland - SHO - Easily TV's best new drama, this riveting series became Sunday night's must watch show.    What makes this show so good, among other things, is that viewers  are initially unclear about who is telling the truth.  Damien Lewis and Mandy Patinkin's performances are among the years best. But it's Claire Danes turn as bipolar CIA agent Carrie Mathison that is the most amazing performance of the year.  If Danes doesn't walk away with a Best Actress Emmy there should be an investigation.


1.  Breaking Bad - AMC - As good as 'Homeland' was, 'Breaking Bad' was even better.  Honestly, did any show have as great a season as this show did?  One of the best seasons of any show in recent memory, ended with one of the best season finales of all time.  In it's 4th season this show has never been better. The amazing performances of Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul were almost overshadowed by Giancarlo Esposito's incredible and terrifying performance as Gus, TV's best villain.  We can't wait to see where this show goes next and wherever it goes, we know it will continue to be the most riveting hour on television.

Live Chat Today at 2 pm.

Andy Rooney dies at 92

From CBS News:


Andy Rooney, the "60 Minutes" commentator known to generations for his wry, humorous and contentious television essays - a unique genre he is credited with inventing - died Friday night in a hospital in New York City of complications following minor surgery. He was 92, and had homes in New York City, Rensselaerville, N.Y. and Rowayton, Conn.

"It's a sad day at '60 Minutes' and for everybody here at CBS News," said Jeff Fager, chairman of CBS News and the executive producer of "60 Minutes." "It's hard to imagine not having Andy around. He loved his life and he lived it on his own terms. We will miss him very much."

Rooney had announced on Oct. 2, 2011 in his 1097th essay for "60 Minutes" that he would no longer appear regularly.

Rooney wrote for television since its birth, spending more than 60 years at CBS, 30 of them behind the camera as a writer and producer, first for entertainment and then news programming, before becoming a television personality - a role he said he was never comfortable in. He preferred to be known as a writer and was the author of best-selling books and a national newspaper column, in addition to his "60 Minutes" essays.

Rooney resided in Manhattan; he also kept a family vacation home in Rensselaerville, N.Y, and the first home he ever purchased, in Rowayton, Conn. He was pre-deceased by his wife of 62 years, Marguerite, in 2004. He is survived by his four children Ellen, Brian, the former longtime ABC News correspondent, Emily, longtime host of "Greater Boston," a local public affairs television program on PBS, and Martha Fishel; five grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He was also was pre-deceased by his sister, Nancy.

Boardwalk Empire renewed for a 3rd season

HBO has renewed 'Boardwalk Empire' for a 3rd season.

'Boardwalk Empire' most recent episode gathered 2.85 million viewers and a 1.2 rating in the adult demo. The drama about Atlantic City during Prohibition won the Emmy for best directing this year, and racked up seven more statues for technical achievements, but some thought it had a chance at more prestigious wins.

"Following a triumphant first season, I was eager to see what Terry Winter, Martin Scorsese and the rest of their stellar team had in store, and they continue to surpass our highest expectations," said HBO president of programming Michael Lombardo. "The response from the media and our viewers has been extremely gratifying."

The renewal follows a series of recent drama series pickups, including for "True Blood," "Game of Thrones" and "Treme," as well as commitments to the new shows "Luck," "Veep," "Girls," "Life’s Too Short" and Aaron Sorkin’s as-yet untitled project.

The show's first season won eight Emmys, including Scorsese's for Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series.
 

Dexter's future in doubt?

Deadline is reporting that even as Sunday’s sixth-season premiere of 'Dexter' set a ratings record for Showtime, negotiations between the cable network and star Michael C. Hall have reached an impasse that leaves the future of the hit drama in doubt.

The day after the serial killer drama's sixth season premiere became Showtime's most-watched season opener in 14 years contract talks between the shows star and the network broke down.   Hall, who also serves as an executive producer on the show, is reportedly asking for $24 million over the next two seasons; the cable network offered $20 million.

Showtime is still hopeful about striking a deal either for two seasons or one, according to Deadline. Reps for Showtime and Hall had no comment on the report.

Hall, 40, won Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild awards for his performance in 2009. Before 'Dexter', he starred on HBO's 'Six Feet Under' for five seasons.

NBC's 'Free Agents' joins 'The Playboy Club' as this seasons 2nd canceled show

Coming just 2 days after NBC announced the cancellation of 'The Playboy Club,' the peacock announced today that another series has been cancelled.

'Free Agents', the workplace comedy starring Hank Azaria was cancelled on Thursday after just  four low-rated episodes, the last of which mustered a measly 1.0 demo rating, while drawing just 3.28 million total viewers.

On Tuesday, 'The Playboy Club' became the first official casualty of the fall season when NBC pulled the plug after 3 episodes.

Todays TV News and Notes

Here's a quick look at whats up in the world of TV today.

• Cheryl Ladd joins the cast of 'Chuck' for it's final season. 
• 'Perry Mason' is headed to the big screen with Robert Downey, Jr. in the title role.
• The October 21st episode of 'Supernatural' will feature a 'Buffy' reunion.
• Cinemax renews 'Strike Back' for a 2nd season.
• 'Blues Brothers' and 'Rambo' actor Charles Napier dies at 75.
• Wednesday nights TV Ratings:  Modern Family dominates.

Kutcher's Two and A Half Men debuts to monster ratings

Two and a Half Men" had its most-watched episode ever Monday -- without Charlie Sheen.

The sitcom drew 27.8 million total viewers to its Season 9 premiere, which introduced Ashton Kutcher as Sheen's replacement, according to early data from Nielsen.

It was the best number ever for "Men," which suffered a shortened eighth season earlier this year after producers fired Sheen, who had engaged in a public war of words with his bosses. In fact, viewing was so high for "Men," it put a noticeable dent in the ratings for ABC's season premiere of "Dancing With the Stars," which averaged 18.6 million for the night. The two-hour "Dancing" was strong enough to power ABC to a win for the night in viewers, however, thanks in no small part to curiosity over the introduction of Chaz Bono, the series' first transgender contestant.

Kutcher was introduced mid-episode in "Men" as Walden Schmidt, a lovelorn Internet billionaire who had tried to commit suicide by walking into the ocean near the Malibu beach house once owned by Charlie Harper (Sheen). The episode's opening revealed that Harper had died after a girlfriend had learned of his infidelity and, it was assumed, pushed him in front of an oncoming train.

Monday's "Men" outing wasn't just the best-rated in the sitcom's history. It was also the highest-rated season premiere for a scripted series since "Desperate Housewives" premiered six years ago, according to ew.com.

In the adults-age-18-to-49 demographic often sought by advertisers, "Men" delivered a gigantic 10.3 rating/24 share.

Emmy Winners!

The winners at Sunday’s 63rd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards presented by the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences:

 

Drama Series: “Mad Men,” AMC.

Actress, Drama Series: Julianna Margulies, “The Good Wife,” CBS.
Actor, Drama Series: Kyle Chandler, “Friday Night Lights,” DirecTV/NBC.
Supporting Actor, Drama Series: Peter Dinklage, “Game of Thrones,” HBO.
Supporting Actress, Drama Series: Margo Martindale, “Justified,” FX.
Writing, Drama Series: Jason Katims, “Friday Night Lights,” NBC.
Directing, Drama Series: Martin Scorsese, “Boardwalk Empire,” HBO.
Comedy Series: “Modern Family,” ABC.
Actor, Comedy Series: Jim Parsons, “The Big Bang Theory,” CBS.
Actress, Comedy Series: Melissa McCarthy, “Mike & Molly,” CBS.
Supporting Actress, Comedy Series: Julie Bowen, “Modern Family,” ABC.
Supporting Actor, Comedy Series: Ty Burrell, “Modern Family,” ABC.
Writing, Comedy Series: Steven Levitan and Jeffrey Richman, “Modern Family,” ABC.
Directing, Comedy Series: Michael Spiller, “Modern Family,” ABC.
Miniseries or Movie: “Downton Abbey” (“Masterpiece”), PBS.
Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Kate Winslet, “Mildred Pierce,” HBO.
Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Barry Pepper, “The Kennedys,” ReelzChannel.
Supporting Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Maggie Smith, “Downton Abbey” (“Masterpiece”), PBS.
Supporting Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Guy Pearce, “Mildred Pierce,” HBO.
Directing, Miniseries, Movie or Dramatic Special: Brian Percival, “Downton Abbey” (“Masterpiece”), PBS.
Writing, Miniseries, Movie or Dramatic Special: Julian Fellowes, “Downton Abbey” (“Masterpiece”), PBS.
Reality-Competition Program: “The Amazing Race,” CBS.
Variety, Music or Comedy Series: “The Daily Show With Jon Stewart,” Comedy Central.
Directing, Variety, Music or Comedy Series: Don Roy King, “Saturday Night Live,” NBC.
Writing, Variety, Music or Comedy Series: “The Daily Show With Jon Stewart,” Comedy Central.

My Emmy Predictions!

The 63rd Annual Emmy Primetime Emmy's are tomorrow night, so I'm weighing in on my predictions on who will be taking home the gold.

First let's look at the comedy categories.

Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

This is going to be a "Modern Family" category, no doubt.  Eric Stonestreet won it last year for his performance as Cameron.  Much was made of Ed O'Neill being snubbed last season, this year he received a nomination. Although I think that Ty Burrell's performance as Phil is much more Emmy worthy,  O'Neill will be the winner.


Best Support Actress in a Comedy Series

This category could also be a "Modern Family" category.    We have Sophia Vergara and Julie Bowen both being nominated.  Both of these actresses are Emmy worthy, Bowen perhaps a little more so.  But I think they may split the votes and Emmy host Jane Lynch will win her second consecutive Emmy for her role as Sue Sylvester on "Glee."    Honestly, any one of these 3 could win, but I think it's going to be Lynch.


Best Actor in a Comedy Series

This is going to be a very tough category.  We have the two leads from 'Big Bang Theory," Johnny Galecki and Jim Parsons being nominated.  The very underrated Matt Leblanc for "Episodes." We also have Steve Carrell as Michael Scott in "The Office."  While Parsons is the most deserving here, this will be the voters last chance to recognize Carrell for his work on "The Office" and I think he wins it.

Best Actress in a Comedy Series 

This category, in my opinion, is a complete toss-up.  Any one of the actresses nominated are worthy.  Edie Falco is always an Emmy favorite and first time nominee Martha Plimpton is generating lots of buzz for her role on "Raising Hope."  However I'm going with Amy Poehler for her role on "Parks and Recreation."  Just a gut feeling.


Best Comedy Series

For me, there is only one nominated show worthy of being called the best and that's "Modern Family."  It delivers the laughs week after week and is the most consistently funny show on TV.  Not to mention it boasts the best ensemble cast of any comedy currently on the air.  This is a no-brainer.


Now let's take a look at the Drama Categories.


Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Another tough category.  Although with last years winner, Aaron Paul from 'Breaking Bad' being ineligible this year (the show didn't air during the required time period), the category is wide open.  Walton Goggins is very much deserving of a win here for his role as Boyd on "Justified," but I think the winner here will be John Slattery as Roger Sterling from "Mad Men."  Again, this is a very tough category, but Slattery is overdue for a win as well and should take home the prize.


Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

 I would love to see Christina Hendricks win for her role as Joan on "Mad Men," but i just don't think its going to happen.   Last years winner in this category, Archie Panjabi from "The Good Wife" is nominated again and is probably the favorite to win.  But the buzz has been building for Margo Martindale for her role as Mags on "Justified."   I will be rooting for Hendricks to pull off the upset, but I think Martindale will be the winner.


Best Actor in a Drama Series

Bryan Cranston of "Breaking Bad" has won this award for the last 3 years.  However, "Breaking Bad" was ineligible for Emmy consideration this year.  That makes this a very interesting category.  Kyle Chandler from "Friday Night Lights" is the sentimental favorite here.  Fans of the show have begged and pleaded every year for the series to get some recognition.  This will be their final chance.  Unfortunately, I don't think it's going to happen.  Steve Buscemi is another fan favorite here for "Boardwalk Empire,"  But this year, this category belongs to one person.  With In my opinion, this award is Jon Hamm's to lose.  His performance as Don Draper on "Mad Men" was the best on TV this past season.  He should and will win on Sunday night. 


Best Actress in a Drama Series

As with the lead actor category, "Friday Night Lights" fans are hoping for the upset here.  Hoping that Connie Britton can pull it off and win.  She will have a tough task.  Elizabeth Moss from "Mad Men," Mariska Hargitay from "Law and Order: SVU," and newcomber Mirielle Enos from "The Killing" are all worthy nominees and all could win.  Kathy Bates, in my opinion, is a long shot, "Harry's Law" is just not a very good show.  I think Julianna Margulies pulls of the win here among very tough competition for "The Good Wife."


Best Drama Series

"Friday Night Lights" has been getting lots of whispers lately that it could pull off the upset here.  It would be nice to see, and very well deserved.  "The Good Wife"  is also a critical favorite and would surprise no one if it won.   However, I think the award here is going to be between "Boardwalk Empire" and "Mad Men."    Both had very strong seasons.  "Boardwalk Empire" in it's first season garnered much critical acclaim and was last years Golden Globe winner for Best Drama Series. "Mad Men" is a past winner and has always been a favorite of the voters.  I think the past season of "Mad Men" was stronger, but I think "Boardwalk Empire" pulls it off and wins this category.  I hope i'm wrong because "Mad Men" deserves to win.


That's it.    Those are my picks.  I think "Mad Men' and "Boardwalk Empire" will be the big winners. Let's see who the winners will be on Sunday night.  The show is on Fox at 8 pm.  Enjoy the show!

Rachel Reilly wins Big Brother 13

After being locked away from the outside world for 75 days, "Big Brother" veteran Rachel Reilly emerged Wednesday as the winner of CBS' voyeuristic reality TV competition. The show's seven-person jury selected the 26-year-old cocktail waitress from Los Angeles to win the $500,000 grand prize over 23-year-old newbie contestant Porsche Briggs from Miami.

At the beginning of the 13th season, the flame-haired Reilly entered the "Big Brother" abode with fiance Brendon Villegas, a 31-year-old graduate student. The pair met last summer as competitors on the show's 12th edition. The ups and downs of their relationship - and the game - resulted in frequent emotional outbursts from Reilly throughout the summer.

"Oh, it's going to be a very hard decision," Villegas joked as he cast his vote for his fiance.

Reilly, who secured four of the seven-person jury's votes, dominated the 13th season by winning several competitions with her veteran alliance and openly targeting the batch of newbie players. She was never able to keep Villegas safe though. He was voted off the show twice after a game-changing twist allowed him to return during the fifth week of competition.

Lopez Tonight canceled by TBS

A surprising move from TBS today.

The cable channel said Wednesday it was cancelling 'Lopez Tonight' after just two seasons. The program, which airs right after Conan O'Brien's show on the  network, has seen its audience dwindle this season. An average of 546,000 viewers tuned into "Lopez Tonight" each night this year, compared with 1.14 million people who watched "Conan," according to Nielsen Co.

The network issued a statement about the two-year show coming to an end:

“TBS has reached the difficult decision not to order a third season of Lopez Tonight. Thursday will be the final episode of the show. We are proud to have partnered with George Lopez, who is an immensely talented comedian and entertainer. TBS has valued its partnership with George and appreciates all of his work on behalf of the network, both on and off the air.”

TNT Cancels Men of a Certain Age

TNT has decided to cancel 'Men of a Certain Age' after 2 seasons.

A statement from the network reads: “TNT has been proud to be a part of 'Men of a Certain Age' for two seasons. While the show has featured great storytelling and impeccable performances, the audience simply hasn’t built to the point where we can continue the series. This was an extremely difficult decision for us. We wish Ray Romano, [series creator] Mike Royce and the terrific cast and crew … the very best and look forward to exploring new programming possibilities in the future.”

The news comes a day after co-star Andre Braugher scored an Emmy nomination for the show.

The Peabody-winning series failed to attract the type of viewership that other TNT shows regularly garner. The show wrapped its split second season run earlier this month with the latter half averaging only a 0.4 in the coveted 18-49 demographic.

2011 Primetime Emmy Nominations announced!

The nominations for the 63rd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards were announced this morning.  As usual there were surprises, both good and bad.    Honestly, the fact that 'Southland' and 'Parenthood' were completely shut out of the major categories, while the same old names continue to get nominated year after year,  is an absolute joke and shows how out of touch the academy is.  

While there were some very well deserved nominations, Ed O'Neill, Timothy Olyphant, Andre Braugher, Mireille Enos among them.  The snubs are much more glaring. 


Here are the nominations:


Best drama series: Boardwalk Empire, Friday Night Lights, Dexter, Game of Thrones, The Good Wife, Mad Men.

Best comedy series: Modern Family, 30 Rock, Glee, The Office, The Big Bang Theory, Parks and Recreation.

Drama actress: Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife; Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men; Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: SVU; Kathy Bates, Harry’s Law; Connie Britton, Friday Night Lights and Mireille Enos, The Killing.

Comedy actor: Steve Carell, The Office; Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock; Jim Parsons, Big Bang Theory;  Matt LeBlanc, Episodes, Louis C.K., Louie; Johnny Galecki, Big Bang Theory. 

Drama actor: Jon Hamm, Mad Men; Steve Buscemi, Boardwalk Empire; Kyle Chandler, Friday Night Lights; Michael C. Hall, Dexter; Hugh Laurie, House; Timothy Olyphant, Justified.

Comedy actress: Tina Fey, 30 Rock; Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie; Amy Poehler, Parks and Recreation; Laura Linney, The Big C; Martha Plimpton, Raising Hope; Melissa McCarthy, Mike & Molly.

Supporting drama actor: Andre Braugher, Men of a Certain Age; John Slattery, Mad Men; Alan Cumming, The Good Wife; Peter Dinklage, Game of Thrones; Josh Charlies, The Good Wife; Walton Goggins, Justified.

Supporting comedy actor: Ty Burrell, Modern Family; Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Modern Family; Ed O’Neill, Modern Family; Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family; Jon Cryer, Two and a Half Men; Chris Colfer, Glee.

Supporting comedy actress: Julie Bowen, Modern Family; Sofia Vergara, Modern Family; Jane Lynch, Glee; Betty White, Hot in Cleveland; Kristen Wiig, Saturday Night Live; Jane Krakowski, 30 Rock.

Reality competition: So You Think You Can Dance, Top Chef, The Amazing Race, American Idol, Dancing With the Stars, Project Runway.

The 63rd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards will be presented on Sunday, September 18th, 2011 on Fox.

My Emmy Wish List

With the Emmy Nominations coming out tomorrow, I wanted to weigh in on a few performers and shows that I feel should get recognized when the nominations are read.  Naturally, we expect the usual suspects to get nominations such as Dexter, Mad Men, House, 30 Rock, etc.

This list is people that you may or may not think will be remembered.  This is who I really would like to see get nominated.

Incidentally, the best show on TV right now, 'Breaking Bad', is ineligible for nominations this time around since it aired it's last episode outside of this years nomination window.  Otherwise, it would and should be sweeping the awards.  It continues to be TV's best and most riveting show.

So here we go with my Emmy Wish List:

Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series - In this category, I would love to see Alyson Hannigan recognized for her work on 'How I Met Your Mother.'  Hannigan has long been an underrated comedic actress and her performance as Lilly really shines among a great ensemble. 


Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series -   Jason Segel's performance on 'How I Met Your Mother' this season just continued to get better as his character dealt with the death of his father.  Touching and funny at the same time, Segel deserves to be recognized.  My other choice in this category is Adam Baldwin.  Week after week, his low-key performance as John Casey on 'Chuck' never failed to deliver smiles.  He is clearly the best part of 'Chuck' these days.  I also can't forget Kunal Nayyar from 'The Big Bang Theory.'  His turn as Rajesh Koothrappali last season was consistently one of the funniest on TV.

Supporting Actress in a Drama Series -  2 clear choices for me here.  The first one is Regina King from 'Southland.'  Her performance as Detective Lydia Adams this season deserves to be rewarded.   My other choice is Mae Whitman from 'Parenthood.'  By the end of last season, her performance as Amber Holt, had run the gambit of emotions, dealing with an estranged father, a protective mother, and a near death experience.  She more than held her own among a very strong cast.  

Supporting Actor in a Drama Series - This is a very strong category this year, but I think it should belong to 'Southland.'  First and foremost, Shawn Hatosy from 'Southland.'  Not since Andy Sipowicz has a character been through so much in such a short period of time.  His character of Detective Sammy Bryant dealt with the breakup of his marriage, his ex having a child that may or may not be his, the violent death of his partner, and his struggles with exacting revenge on his partners killer.  The other actor from 'Southland' that should get a nomination here is Michael Cudlitz. His characters slow decline into a dependency on pain medication, and finally his realization that he needed help was painful to watch.  He made us feel Officer John Cooper's pain.  I did mention this is a very strong category this year.  The amount of strong actors that should be recognized here is proof.  Joel Kinnaman portrayal as junkie turned homicide detective, Stephen Holder on 'The Killing' just got better and better as the season went along, a true breakout performance for him.  Finally, Michael Shannon's ever so creepy performance as Federal Agent Van Nelson on 'Boardwalk Empire' deserves to be mention here as well.


Lead Actor in a Comedy Series - Believe it or not, Steve Carrell has never won for his portrayal of Michael Scott on 'The Office.'  Since this is his last chance to be nominated for this iconic character, I would love to see him get a nod here.  Another hopeful here is Zachary Levi from 'Chuck.'  His performance as the super nerd turned super spy has always been strong.  However with NBC announcing that next season will be the shows last, his chances are dwindling.  I'm hoping he gets recognized this year.  Finally, it would be a crime if Ed O'Neill was snubbed for a second year in a row.  'Modern Family' is the best comedy on TV these days and he is the glue that holds it together. 


Lead Actress in a Comedy Series - I've always felt that Kaley Cuoco was very underrated as Penny on 'The Big Bang Theory' but this year she really came into her own and shined.    An Emmy nomination is long overdue.  My other choice here is Yvonne Strahovski from 'Chuck.'  Even though I thought she was more worthy of a nomination last season, she still deserves to be recognized for her stellar work as Sarah.

Lead Actress in a Drama Series -  Mireille Enos of AMC's 'The Killing' gave an amazing, yet understated performance as homicide detective Sarah Linden.  She may not be well known enough to academy voters to get recognized but the series was very much talked about, so hopefully she will get a nomination here.  My other choice here is Lauren Graham from 'Parenthood.'  Week after week her work as Sarah Braverman never failed to impress.  The goodbye scenes between her and her ex played by John Corbett were some of this TV seasons best scenes.  Lastly, I also would like to see Kelly MacDonald from 'Boardwalk Empire' be nominated.  Just a great performance as Margaret Schroeder in the midst of a powerhouse cast.  Her amazing transition from a meek and abused housewife to a knowing and willing participant in Nucky’s various endeavors was enjoyable to watch.

Lead Actor in a Drama Series - The first actor I'd really like to see recognized in this category is Ray Romano from 'Men of a Certain Age.'  He is well known to everyone as a comedic actor and he has been recognized by the academy for his comedy.  But he more than holds his own on the drama side of things as well.  He has been delivering a dark performance, fighting his addiction to gambling and going through a divorce and hopefully the academy gives him some recognition.  Next on my wish list is Tom Selleck for his work on 'Blue Bloods.'  He has been nominated 7 times before, but he hasn't won since his days on 'Magnum, PI.'  His role as the patriarch of the Reagan family is one of Selleck's best roles.  Finally, the academy really needs to recognize the great work that Peter Krause is doing on NBC's 'Parenthood.'  His turn this year as father struggling with his son's autism and his daughter's sex life showed how great an actor Krause is.  He hasn't been nominated since 'Six Feet Under.'  It's been too long, and it's about time the academy nominated not only him but also gave some recognition to this fine drama series.

Best Comedy Series - With as popular as 'The Big Bang Theory' is, you would think that it has been nominated in this category before.  You would be wrong.    While the show has lost a little steam over the last season, it is still among TV's best comedies and hopefully will get a nomination here.  Another show i'm hoping gets nominated is 'Chuck.'  The show has been forever "on the bubble" and I think that has really taken some attention away at how good this show really is.  Yes, I agree, it isn't quite as good as it has been, but still some high quality television.   Lastly, 'How I Met Your Mother' need to start getting some recognition outside of Neil Patrick Harris.  Aside from 'Modern Family' no other show makes me laugh on a regular basis like this one does.  Hopefully we'll see a nomination for it.

Best Drama Series - With the best drama series on TV in 'Breaking Bad' being ineligible this year, this category should be wide open.    Lets start with 'Boardwalk Empire.'   This show should be a shoo-in to be nominated and it deserves it.  My next choice is 'Parenthood.'  I have been touting this show since it premiered and it hasn't disappointed me yet.  It keeps getting better and better and hopefully an Emmy nomination will get more people watching this ratings-challenged gem.  Next is 'Southland.'  Once cancelled by NBC, TNT quickly scooped it up and I'm so glad they did.  It is TV's best police drama hands down. I would also like to see CBS 'Blue Blood's' grab a nod here.   'The Killing,' while I liked it very much and boasted great acting performances needs to be just a bit better to garner a nomination here.


Thats it.  The nominations will be read tomorrow morning at 8 am Eastern Time.  Let's hope most, if not all, of my wishes come true.