SueTube – Let’s talk TV with critic Susan Young

Maybe Kara DioGuardi’s keeping her game a secret until she pops on the judges’ panel tomorrow during the New York auditions.

But the press conference just now was a real yawner. “I have no idea” is her favorite phrase. Followed by “I really can’t comment on that.”

I knew it was downhill when she use the term “authentic” when describing singers she likes and she admitted to using “pitchy” when describing a singer. Not good.

“For me what makes a great artist, or what makes an artist, is someone who is unique. Just because you can sing runs doesn’t mean your voice (will make you a star). It’s not about vocal acrobatics, it’s about being unique and being identifiable to you,” Kara said in one of her rare moments of expanding on her answers.

As to what she’s going to bring to “American Idol,” Kara says simply that “I have my own kind of style and people will have to watch.”

Well, of course we’ll watch. It looks like there might be a train wreck coming down the tracks.

But you can’t deny Kara knows what she’s doing in the song department with Christina Aguilera’s “Ain’t No Other Man,” Kelly Clarkson’s “Walkaway,” Gwen Stefani’s “Rich Girl” and other hits. Check out these YouTube offerings:

Faith Hill’s Greatest Hits single “Lost” performed by co-writers Kara DioGuardi, the newest judge on Fox’s “American Idol” and Mitch Allan, with Dave Hodges on piano.

“Taking Chances” is the title track for Celine’s new album on which Celine sings an official solo version. Fox’s new “American Idol” judge Kara’s solo version is done by her band, Platinum Weird.

Wacky Paula Abdul may be getting some competition on “American Idol.”

Never the most stable of people, Paula has reigned as the queen of “American Idol” until now. Fox announced there will be new judge in the house: songwriter Kara DioGuardi.

Never heard of her? Well how many people knew who Simon Cowell was before he sat down on the judges’ panel? We’ll have to see if Kara’s got the charisma. Or, more importantly, can talk in coherent sentences.

New “American Idol” judge is songwriter Kara DioGuardi.
2007 FOX BROADCASTING CR: FOX

Grammy-nominated songwriter Kara now sits alongside Paula, Simon and Randy Jackson at the judges’ table and will use her background as an award-winning songwriter and producer to praise or critique the wannabe hopefuls throughout the competition. The eighth season of AMERICAN IDOL premieres January, 2009, on FOX.

“We are turning the heat up on ‘Idol’ this year and are thrilled to welcome Kara to the judges’ table,” said creator and executive producer Simon Fuller. “She is a smart, sassy lady, and one of America’s most successful songwriters. We know she will bring a new level of energy and excitement to the show.”

Not that the producers are trying to usurp Paula.

“We had originally intended for AMERICAN IDOL to have four judges,” said executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz. “We’ve seen from our international series that having a fourth judge creates a dynamic that benefits both the contestants and the viewers.”

Mike Darnell, President, Alternative Programming of Fox calls Paula “an island of consideration and gentle criticism between Randy and Simon, offering her invaluable expertise as a performer…with Kara by her side, Paula finally has some back-up and now there is going to be a lot more ‘girl power’ on the show.”

Umm. Maybe.

The press release says that Kara has worked with award-winning artists including Kelly Clarkson, Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani, Celine Dion, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood, Santana, and Pink. Scores of major recording artists including Britney Spears, Avril Lavigne, Pussycat Dolls, Miley Cyrus, The Jonas Brothers, Natasha Bedingfield, Jewel, Ashley Tisdale, Katharine McPhee, Taylor Hicks, Bo Bice, Clay Aiken, Ashlee Simpson, Hilary Duff, Jessica Simpson, Kylie Minogue, Enrique Iglesias, Nick Lachey and Marc Anthony have also released DioGuardi’s songs.

Sorry for taking so long to post, but I’ve been out on disability. Hopefully, I’m all better now and ready to give you the attention you all so deserve.

First up, time to get those vocal chords tuned because “American Idol” wants you – if not for the competition, then at least for those endless audition shows. And for goodness sake, choose your songs wisely. Don’t start with “Unchained Melody” or anything by Whitney or Celine.

Auditions for the eighth season of “American Idol” begin Thursday, July 17, at the Cow Palace in San Francisco, CA, and will continue in seven other cities. It’s the first step on a journey that could include the opportunity to perform before millions of TV viewers and become household names, with one winning the coveted American Idol title and a major recording contract.

Or more likely, the chance to be mocked by millions and have TMZ tailing you.

Auditions will be held as follows:

San Francisco, CA Thursday, July 17 Cow Palace

Louisville, KY Monday, July 21 Freedom Hall

Phoenix, AZ Friday, July 25 Jobing.com Arena

Salt Lake City, UT Tuesday, July 29 EnergySolutions Arena

San Juan, Puerto Rico Saturday, Aug. 2 Coliseo de Puerto Rico

Kansas City, MO Friday, Aug. 8 Sprint Center

Jacksonville, FL Wednesday, Aug. 13 Veterans Memorial Arena

East Rutherford, NJ Tuesday, Aug. 19 IZOD Center at the Meadowlands

Sports Complex

Here’s the info on the San Francisco “American Idol” auditions, with more details on the other auditions to come later.

WHO: Men and women 16-28 years old as of July 15, 2008 who are eligible to work in the United States. Some restrictions apply. Visit the Web site for specific information.

WHERE: The Cow Palace 2600 Geneva Ave. Daly City, CA 94014

WHEN: Thursday, July 17

HOW: Wristbands will be distributed from 7:00 AM on Tuesday, July 15 until 8:00 AM on Thursday, July 17. Auditioners will not be permitted to camp out. Once they obtain their wristbands, they will be asked to return to the Cow Palace on Thursday, July 17.

Both “Psych” and “Monk” were taken off the NBC schedule, and no wonder with their rankings down in the 70s.

And “Lost” tying with “60 Minutes” ? What’s up with that?

American Idol still hogs the top two slots even though we all know it is going to come down to the Davids – Archuleta and Cook. I’m putting my money on David Cross, who deserves the win just for his unique style.

Speaking of unique style, Paula Abdul melted down last week, talking about Jason Castro’s second performance, when he had only performed once that night.

Paula Abdul’s gaffe during last week’s “American Idol” on Fox.
Oh, Paula.

Check out where your favorite shows ranks on the Primetime Nielsen ratings for the week of April 28-May 4.

1 AMERICAN IDOL-TUESDAY 25090 8.8

2 AMERICAN IDOL-WEDNESDAY 22800 8.0

3 DANCING WITH THE STARS 18220 6.4

4 CSI 18010 6.3

5 DANCING W/STARS RESULTS 17060 6.0

6 DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES 16760 5.9

7 GREY’S ANATOMY-THU 9PM 15310 5.3

8 NCIS 14760 5.2

9 HOUSE-MON 9P 14640 5.1

10 CSI: MIAMI 13880 4.8
Read the rest of this entry »

Reality rules, as “American Idol” and “Dancing with the Star” took over the top four spots in the Nielsen’s this week.

JULIANNE HOUGH, ADAM CAROLLA on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars.”

And what is dying at the bottom of the barrel? My beloved “Aliens in America.” Here’s the list so you can check out how your favorite shows stack up.

1 AMERICAN IDOL-TUESDAY 27340 9.5
2 AMERICAN IDOL-WEDNESDAY 26080 9.1
3 DANCING WITH THE STARS 21150 7.4
4 DANCING W/STARS SP-3/18 17020 5.9
5 TWO AND A HALF MEN 14060 4.9
6 SURVIVOR:MICRONESIA WE-SP 11560 4.0
7 60 MINUTES 11540 4.0
8 OLD CHRISTINE 11470 4.0
9 LOST 11460 4.0
10 EXTREME MAKEOVER:HOME ED. 11360 4.0
11 MOMENT OF TRUTH 10920 3.8
12 NCIS 10600 3.7
13 LAW AND ORDER 10490 3.7
14 DEAL OR NO DEAL 3/20 10260 3.6
15 DEAL OR NO DEAL-MON 10080 3.5
16 MEDIUM 10070 3.5
17 CBS NCAA POST GAME SUN 1 10030 3.5
18 OPRAH’S BIG GIVE 9810 3.4
19 CSI: MIAMI 9640 3.4
20 HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER 9610 3.4
21 MISS GUIDED SP-3/18 9280 3.2
22 CBS NCAA BSKBL CHMP-SA-4 9200 3.2
23 BIG BANG THEORY, THE 8930 3.1
24 APPRENTICE 7 8830 3.1
25 BACHELOR: LONDON CALLING 8580 3.0
26 DON’T FORGET THE LYRICS 8370 2.9
27 LAW AND ORDER:SVU 8290 2.9
28 CBS NCAA BSKBL CHP-EVEFR2 8210 2.9
29 LAW AND ORDER:SVU-SUN3/23 8090 2.8
30 AMER FUNN HOME VIDEOS 8050 2.8
31 BIGGEST LOSER 5 7890 2.8
32 LAW AND ORDER-SUN 3/23 7720 2.7
33 CBS NCAA BSKBL CHP-EVETH2 7630 2.7
34 SMARTER THAN 5TH GRADER 7460 2.6
35 20/20-FRI 7360 2.6
36 ELI STONE 7320 2.6
37 NEW AMSTERDAM 7270 2.5
38 SUPERNANNY 6960 2.4
39 LIPSTICK JUNGLE 6950 2.4
40 LAW AND ORDER:CRIM INTENT 6830 2.4
41 HERE COME THE NEWLYWEDS 6730 2.4
42 BIG BROTHER 9-WED 6600 2.3
43 BIG BROTHER 9-SUN 6460 2.3
44 COLD CASE 6350 2.2
45 CSI: NY 6340 2.2
DATELINE FRI 6340 2.2
47 MISS GUIDED-3/20 8:30PM 6310 2.2
48 20/20-9PM 6300 2.2
49 MISS GUIDED-3/20 8PM 6280 2.2
50 EASTER BEAGLE, C. BROWN 6240 2.2
51 LAW AND ORDER-SAT 6200 2.2
52 DATELINE SUN 7PM 3/23 6080 2.1
53 COPS 2 6010 2.1
54 AMW: AMERICA FIGHTS BACK 5910 2.1
55 MEN IN TREES 5890 2.1
56 JERICHO 5730 2.0
57 CANTERBURY’S LAW 5710 2.0
58 WIFE SWAP 5700 2.0
59 LAW AND ORDR:CRIM INT3/19 5440 1.9
60 HOUSE-FRI 9P 5430 1.9
61 BIG BROTHER 9-TUE 5380 1.9
62 DEXTER 5270 1.8
63 LAW & ORDER:SVU-SAT 5230 1.8
64 AMNESIA 5140 1.8
65 COPS 5110 1.8
66 JUST FOR LAUGHS 4870 1.7
67 SIMPSONS 4810 1.7
68 FAMILY GUY 4490 1.6
69 MY DAD IS BETR THN YR DAD 4400 1.5
70 FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN 4280 1.5
71 AMERICA’S TOP MODEL-4 3790 1.3
72 GREY’S ANATOMY-FRI 8PM 3700 1.3
73 SMALLVILLE 3440 1.2
74 TIL DEATH-FRI 8P 3390 1.2
75 UNHITCHED SP-3/23 8:30P 3210 1.1
76 RETURN OF JEZEBEL JAMES 3130 1.1
77 UNHITCHED 3110 1.1
78 ONE TREE HILL 3000 1.0
79 REAPER-THU 2940 1.0
80 AMERICAN DAD-SUN 7:30P 2700 .9
81 KING OF THE HILL-SUN 7P 2500 .9
82 APPRENTICE 7 3/22 2280 .8
83 BEAUTY AND THE GEEK-3 1730 .6
84 PUSSYCAT DOLLS:GIRL-ENC 1710 .6
85 PUSSYCAT DOLLS:GIRLICIOUS 1640 .6
86 GAME, THE-SUN 1260 .4
87 GOSSIP GIRL-MON 1240 .4
88 AMERICA’S TOP MODEL-4-ENC 1220 .4
89 GIRLFRIENDS-SUN 1170 .4
90 EV HATES CHRIS-SUN2 990 .3
91 ALIENS IN AMERICA-SUN 910 .3

There’s nothing like a fresh batch of ratings to perk up the day. Here you go, get ’em while their hot.

And the No. 1…and 2…are:

Top 10. Pictured Clockwise from L: Ramiele Malubay, Jason Castro, Brooke White, Michael Johns, Carly Smithson, Kristy Lee Cook, Syesha Mercado, David Cook, David Archuleta (C) and Chickezie (bottom C). © Fox Broadcasting Co. Cr: Frank Micelotta/FOX

We understand “AI” taking the top two slots, but “Survivor” beating out “Lost”? Now that’s just insane.

1 AMERICAN IDOL-TUESDAY 29880 10.4
2 AMERICAN IDOL-WEDNESDAY 27130 9.5
3 SURVIVOR: MICRONESIA 13220 4.6
4 LOST 12080 4.2
5 EXTREME MAKEOVER:HOME ED. 12050 4.2
6 LAW AND ORDER 11850 4.1
7 DEAL OR NO DEAL-MON 11820 4.1
TWO AND A HALF MEN 11820 4.1
9 60 MINUTES 11300 3.9
10 CSI 11230 3.9
11 MOMENT OF TRUTH 10580 3.7
12 CSI: MIAMI 10240 3.6
13 DEAL OR NO DEAL-WED 10190 3.6
14 WITHOUT A TRACE 9780 3.4
15 OPRAH’S BIG GIVE 9740 3.4
16 OLD CHRISTINE 9620 3.4
17 LAW AND ORDER:SVU 9520 3.3
18 SMARTER THAN 5TH GRADER 9420 3.3
19 MEDIUM 9340 3.3
20 NEW AMSTERDAM 8830 3.1
21 DON’T FORGET THE LYRICS 8740 3.1
22 NCIS 8510 3.0
23 APPRENTICE 7 8240 2.9
24 PRICE IS RIGHT PRIMETIME 8140 2.8
25 COLD CASE 8100 2.8
DATELINE SUN-7PM 8100 2.8
27 LAW AND ORDER:CRIM INTENT 7900 2.8
28 LAW AND ORDER:SVU-SUN 7880 2.8
29 CANTERBURY’S LAW 7720 2.7
30 BIGGEST LOSER 5 7660 2.7
31 PRIMETIME:WHAT WOULD U DO 7600 2.7
32 BACHELOR: WHERE ARE THEY 7570 2.6
33 CRIMINAL MINDS 7440 2.6
34 OLD CHRISTINE 8:30PM SP 7380 2.6
35 AMER FUNN HOME VIDEOS 7310 2.6
36 LAW AND ORDER-SUN 7100 2.5
37 COPS 2 6980 2.4
38 ELI STONE 6920 2.4
39 MY DAD IS BETR THN YR DAD 6810 2.4
40 FAMILY GUY 6760 2.4
41 HERE COME THE NEWLYWEDS 6750 2.4
42 SIMPSONS 6630 2.3
43 DATELINE FRI 6520 2.3
44 HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER 6500 2.3
45 AMW: AMERICA FIGHTS BACK 6470 2.3
46 DEXTER 6460 2.3
47 NUMB3RS 6380 2.2
48 CSI: NY 6350 2.2
49 BIG BROTHER 9-SUN 6280 2.2
50 48 HOURS MYSTERY 6260 2.2
51 LAW AND ORDER-SAT 6240 2.2
52 WIFE SWAP 6180 2.2
53 GHOST WHISPERER 6120 2.1
54 KING OF THE HILL 6030 2.1
55 SUPERNANNY 5940 2.1
56 BIG BROTHER 9-TUE 5870 2.1
57 COPS 5850 2.0
58 JERICHO 5840 2.0
59 MEN IN TREES 5670 2.0
60 HOUSE-FRI 9P 5610 2.0
61 20/20-FRI 5530 1.9
62 LIPSTICK JUNGLE 5370 1.9
63 LOST-THU 8PM 5330 1.9
64 BIG BROTHER 9-WED 5310 1.9
65 LAW & ORDER:SVU-SAT 5030 1.8
66 ACCORDING TO JIM-TU 9PM 4960 1.7
67 ACCORDING TO JIM SP-3/11 4890 1.7
CRIMETIME SATURDAY 4890 1.7
69 OCTOBER ROAD 4680 1.6
70 20/20-9PM 4640 1.6
71 JUST FOR LAUGHS 4540 1.6
72 MY NAME IS EARL 3/13 4520 1.6
73 JUST FOR LAUGHS-TU 8PM 4470 1.6
74 LAW & ORDER:CI-SAT 4440 1.5
75 UNHITCHED 4430 1.5
76 AMNESIA 4420 1.5
77 FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN 4290 1.5
78 MY NAME IS EARL 4140 1.4
79 SMALLVILLE 3800 1.3
80 AMERICA’S TOP MODEL-4 3650 1.3
81 GREY’S ANATOMY-FRI 8PM 3610 1.3
82 AMERICAN DAD-SUN 7:30P 3590 1.3
83 CRIMETIME SATURDAY 8PM 3570 1.2
84 KING OF THE HILL-SUN 7P 3290 1.2
85 RETURN OF JEZEBEL JAMES 3180 1.1
86 RETURN OF JEZ SP-3/14 8P 3130 1.1
87 HERE COME NEWLYWEDS SP 1 2670 .9
88 REAPER-THU 2520 .9
89 ONE TREE HILL 2500 .9
90 BACHELOR:WHERE ARE THEY-2 2410 .8
91 HERE COME NEWLYWEDS SP 2 2380 .8
92 BEAUTY AND THE GEEK-3 1920 .7
93 PUSSYCAT DOLLS:GIRLICIOUS 1670 .6
94 PUSSYCAT DOLLS:GIRL-ENC 1580 .6
95 EV HATES CHRIS-SUN2 1180 .4
GOSSIP GIRL-MON 1180 .4
97 AMERICA’S TOP MODEL-4-ENC 1130 .4
98 GAME, THE-SUN 930 .3
99 ALIENS IN AMERICA-SUN 910 .3
100 GIRLFRIENDS-SUN 870 .3

Step right up and get your fresh ratings for the week.

At the Miami audition, Paula Abdul was all over Ghaleb Emachah, but he got the boot tonight on “American Idol.”

It’s no surprise that “American Idol” leads the race, with “House” coming up on its heels. And while most critics didn’t care for “The Grammys,” and the ratings indeed had a slip from former years, the song fest was a welcome break from reruns and came in at the No. 4 slot.

Amy Winehouse performs via satellite from London at “The Grammy Awards.”

Here’s your rundown:

1 AMERICAN IDOL-TUESDAY 9.7
2 AMERICAN IDOL-WEDNESDAY 9.2
3 HOUSE 8.1
4 GRAMMY AWARDS 6.0
5 MOMENT OF TRUTH 5.8
6 EXTREME MAKEOVER:HOME ED. 5.5
7 LOST 5.3
8 SURVIVOR: MICRONESIA 4.9
9 DEAL OR NO DEAL-MON 4.6
10 60 MINUTES 4.6
11 20/20 SP EDITION-2/4 4.4
12 TWO AND A HALF MEN 4.3
13 CSI 4.1
14 WITHOUT A TRACE 3.6
15 CSI: NY 3.5
16 LAW AND ORDER 3.5
17 DANCE WAR:BRUNO/CARRIEANN 3.4
18 SMARTER THAN 5TH GRADER 3.3
19 CRIMINAL MINDS 3.3
20 NCIS 3.3
21 OLD CHRISTINE 3.3
22 AMER FUNN HOME VIDEOS 3.3
23 DEAL OR NO DEAL 2/7 3.3
24 AMERICAN GLADIATORS 3.2
25 ELI STONE 3.1
26 TERMINATOR: SRH CNR CHRON 3.1
27 CSI: MIAMI 3.1
28 APPRENTICE 7 3.0
29 DON’T FORGET THE LYRICS 3.0
30 BROTHERS & SISTERS 3.0
31 BUDWEISER SHOOT-OUT 3.0
32 HOUSE-FRI 9P 2.9
33 MOST OUTRAG MOM SP 2/10 2.8
34 WELCOME TO THE CAPTAIN 2.8
35 LAW AND ORDER:CRIM INTENT 2.7
36 DEAL OR NO DEAL-WED 2.7
37 TWO AND A HALF MEN-WED SP 2.7
38 1 VS 100 2.7
39 SUPERNANNY 2.6
HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER 2.6
41 LIPSTICK JUNGLE 2.6
42 BIGGEST LOSER 5 2.6
43 PRISON BREAK 2.6
44 LAS VEGAS 2.6
45 FAMILY GUY SP-2/10 9:30P 2.5
46 LAW AND ORDER-SAT 2.4
47 LAW & ORDER:SVU-SAT 2.4
48 SIMPSONS 2.4
49 NUMB3RS 2.4
48 HOURS MYSTERY 2.4
51 ABC SAT MOVIE OF THE WEEK 2.3
GHOST WHISPERER 2.3
53 FAMILY GUY 2.3
54 WIFE SWAP 2.3
55 LOST-THU 8PM 2.2
56 20/20-FRI 2.2
57 BIG BANG THEORY, THE – SP 2.2
58 KING OF THE HILL 2.1
59 BONES-FRI 8P 2.0
60 MOONLIGHT 1.9
61 CHARLIE BROWN VALENTINE 1.9
62 SUPER TUESDAY-ABC 9PM 1.9
63 FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS 1.8
64 CASHMERE MAFIA 1.8
NBC NEWS:SUPER TUES 2/5 1.8
66 48 HOURS MYSTERY 9PM 1.8
67 LAW & ORDER:CI-SAT 1.8
68 SUPER TUESDAY-ABC 10PM 1.7
69 SUPER TUESDAY-ABC 8PM 1.7
70 FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN 1.6
71 CRIMETIME SATURDAY 8PM 1.5
72 CAMPAIGN 08:SUPER TUESDAY 1.5
73 SMALLVILLE 1.4
74 GREY’S ANATOMY-FRI 8PM 1.4
75 DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES-FRI 1.3
76 AMERCN GLADTORS 8P 2/10 1.3
77 AMERCN GLADTORS 7P 2/10 1.3
78 ONE TREE HILL 1.0
79 SUPERNATURAL .9
80 GAME, THE .7
81 GIRLFRIENDS .7
82 REAPER-TUE .6
83 TOP MODEL EXPOSED .6
84 GOSSIP GIRL-MON .5
85 EV HATES CHRIS-SUN2 .4
ONE TREE HILL-WED .4
87 ALIENS IN AMERICA-SUN .4
88 GAME, THE-SUN .3
89 GIRLFRIENDS-SUN .3
90 EVERYBODY HATES CHRIS-SUN .3
91 CW NOW .2

Between the strike and the fires in SoCal, even Jack Bauer didn’t have a chance.

Fox announced today that “24” would be delayed so the planned rollout of all 24 episodes without interruption could still be a happening thing. They also offered up a tentative winter/spring schedule in the event the writers’ strike continued.

(By the way, if you haven’t checked it out, we’ll give a silent prayer to the L.A. Times which whipped up this schedule about how many shows have been shot, etc.)

Of course, Fox knows “American Idol” will keep them afloat during the tough times no matter what. And we’ll probably get even more of all those weeks of tryouts. For goodness sakes, they could probably run the tryouts every day through the end of the season.

But we’ll hope they don’t.

“American Idol” returns with a two-night, four-hour premiere on Jan. 15 and 16. But it won’t be all reality shows. The impressive “Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles” will air on Jan. 13 and 14, and the creaky “New Amsterdam,” about an immortal, shows up on Feb. 22. “Gilmore Girls” creator Amy Sherman-Palladino has “The Return of Jezabel James” in March, the Farrelly Brothers’ comedy “Unhitched,” and “ER” alum Julianna Margulies comes back to TV in “Canterbury Law.”

But the rest is a laundry list of reality programming.

The new schedule is subject to change, pending resolution of the strike.

TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES: Again facing relentless Terminators that will stop at nothing until 15-year-old John Connor (Thomas Dekker), the future leader of the resistance, is eliminated, Sarah Connor (Lena Headey) stops running and starts fighting back against fate and the machines that are out to get her son. The show also stars Sumnmer Glau as John’s classmate, the fearless, otherworldly Cameron; and Richard T. Jones as FBI Agent James Ellison.

UNHITCHED: Executive-produced by the Farrelly Brothers, this single-camera comedy revolves around four unattached friends who actually want to be married and must navigate the tricky waters of dating in their 30s. The series stars Craig Bierko, Rashida Jones, Johnny Sneed and Shaun Majumder.

THE RETURN OF JEZEBEL JAMES: From Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino, this comedy stars Parker Posey as Sarah, a successful children’s book editor who reconnects with her estranged and free-spirited younger sister Coco, played by Lauren Ambrose. The series also stars Scott Cohen as Sarah’s no-strings-attached boyfriend, Marcus; Michael Arden as her loyal and slightly terrified assistant, Buddy; and Ron McLarty and Dianne Wiest (in a recurring role) as the girls’ meddlesome parents, Ronald and Talia.

NEW AMSTERDAM: This drama series tells the story of a brilliant and enigmatic New York homicide detective, John Amsterdam (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau), who has a profound secret: He is immortal, and will not age until he meets his one true love. Also starring are Zuleikha Robinson as Amsterdam’s new partner, Eva Marquez; Alexie Gilmore as Dr. Sara Dillane; and Stephen Henderson as Omar, Amsterdam’s sole confidant.

CANTERBURY’S LAW: From the producers of “Rescue Me,” this courtroom drama centers on rebellious defense attorney Elizabeth Canterbury (Julianna Margulies), who’s willing to bend the law in order to protect the wrongfully accused. The series also stars Aidan Quinn (in a recurring role) as Canterbury’s husband, Matt; Ben Shenkman as her colleague Russell Krauss; and Keith Robinson and Trieste Dunn as Chester Grant and Molly McConnell, the associates rounding out Canterbury’s legal team.

THE MOMENT OF TRUTH: Game show that puts contestants to the test – the lie detector test – to reveal whether or not they are willing to tell the truth for a chance to win half a million dollars. The new game show is hosted by Mark L. Walberg.

WHEN WOMEN RULE THE WORLD: Set in a primitive, remote location, this unscripted series explores what happens when a group of strong, educated and independent women, tired of living in a man’s world, rule over a group of unsuspecting men used to calling the shots.

FOX JANUARY THROUGH MAY

MONDAY

Monday, Jan. 7:

7:30 PM-CC ET ALLSTATE BCS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

(LIVE)

Mondays, beginning Jan. 14:

8:00-9:00 PM PRISON BREAK

9:00-10:00 PM TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES

(Time Period Premiere)

Monday, March 3:

8:00-9:00 PM WHEN WOMEN RULE THE WORLD (wt)

(Series Premiere)

9:00-10:00 PM TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES

Mondays, beginning March 10:

8:00-9:00 PM WHEN WOMEN RULE THE WORLD (wt)

9:00-10:00 PM HOUSE (Time Period Premiere)

***************************

TUESDAY

Tuesday, Jan. 1:

8:00 PM-CC ET ALLSTATE SUGAR BOWL (LIVE)

Tuesday, Jan. 15:

8:00-10:00 PM AMERICAN IDOL (Season Premiere, Part 1)

Tuesdays, beginning Jan. 22:

8:00-9:00 PM AMERICAN IDOL (Time Period Premiere)

9:00-10:00 PM HOUSE

Tuesdays, beginning April 1:

8:00-9:00 PM AMERICAN IDOL

9:00-10:00 PM HELL’S KITCHEN (Season Premiere)

***************************

WEDNESDAY

Wednesday, Jan. 2:

7:30 PM-CC ET TOSTITOS FIESTA BOWL (LIVE)

Wednesday, Jan. 16:

8:00-10:00 PM AMERICAN IDOL (Season Premiere, Part 2)

Wednesdays, beginning Jan. 23:

8:00-9:00 PM AMERICAN IDOL

9:00-10:00 PM THE MOMENT OF TRUTH (Series Premiere)

Wednesdays, beginning March 12:

8:00-9:00 PM THE MOMENT OF TRUTH (Time Period Premiere)

9:00-9:30 PM AMERICAN IDOL

9:30-10:00 PM BACK TO YOU (Time Period Premiere)

***************************

THURSDAY

Thursday, Jan. 3:

7:30 PM-CC ET FEDEX ORANGE BOWL (LIVE)

Thursdays, beginning Jan. 10 (No changes to lineup):

8:00-9:00 PM ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5th GRADER?

9:00-10:00 PM DON’T FORGET THE LYRICS!

***************************

FRIDAY

Fridays, beginning Jan. 4:

8:00-9:00 PM BONES (Time Period Premiere)

9:00-10:00 PM HOUSE (Time Period Premiere)

Friday, Feb. 22:

8:00-9:00 PM BONES

9:00-10:00 PM NEW AMSTERDAM (Series Premiere)

Fridays, beginning March 7:

8:00-8:30 PM ‘TIL DEATH (Time Period Premiere)

8:30-9:00 PM THE RETURN OF JEZEBEL JAMES (Series Premiere)

9:00-10:00 PM NEW AMSTERDAM

Fridays, beginning April 11:

8:00-8:30 PM ‘TIL DEATH

8:30-9:00 PM THE RETURN OF JEZEBEL JAMES

9:00-10:00 PM CANTERBURY’S LAW (Series Premiere)

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SATURDAY

Saturdays, beginning Jan. 5: (No changes to lineup)

8:00-8:30 PM COPS

8:30-9:00 PM COPS

9:00-10:00 PM AMERICA’S MOST WANTED: AMERICA FIGHTS BACK

11:00 PM-Midnight MADtv

Midnight-12:30 AM TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN

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SUNDAY

Sundays, beginning Jan. 6: (No changes to lineup)

7:00-7:30 PM VARIOUS COMEDY ENCORES

7:30-8:00 PM VARIOUS COMEDY ENCORES

8:00-9:00 PM THE SIMPSONS

8:30-9:00 PM KING OF THE HILL

9:00-9:30 PM FAMILY GUY

9:30-10:00 PM AMERICAN DAD

Sunday, Jan. 13:

7:00-7:30 PM VARIOUS COMEDY ENCORES (West Coast only)

7:30-8:00 PM VARIOUS COMEDY ENCORES (West Coast only)

8:00-9:00 PM TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES

(Series Premiere)

9:00-9:30 PM FAMILY GUY

9:30-10:00 PM AMERICAN DAD

Sunday, Feb. 3 (Super Bowl Sunday):

6:00 PM ET SUPER BOWL XLII (Approx. 4 hours, LIVE)

Approx. 10:00 PM ET HOUSE (Original episode; guest star Mira Sorvino)

Sundays, beginning March 2:

7:00-7:30 PM COMEDY ENCORES

(West Coast only on 3/2 due to NASCAR)

7:30-8:00 PM COMEDY ENCORES

(West Coast only on 3/2 due to NASCAR)

8:00-8:30 PM THE SIMPSONS

8:30-9:00 PM KING OF THE HILL

9:00-9:30 PM FAMILY GUY

9:30-10:00 PM UNHITCHED (Series Premiere)

Sundays, beginning April 13:

7:00-7:30 PM COMEDY ENCORES

7:30-8:00 PM COMEDY ENCORES

8:00-8:30 PM THE SIMPSONS

8:30-9:00 PM KING OF THE HILL

9:00-9:30 PM FAMILY GUY

9:30-10:00 PM AMERICAN DAD

Nope. Not even going Code Blue could save the Emmy telecast, which weighed in with only 13.1 million viewers. The only time fewer folks tuned in was the 1990 telecast on Fox.

Compare that to the dazzle of the Oscars, which lured 40.2 million viewers to the telecast. Heck, even the Country Music Awards brought in 16 million people.

GIDGET GETS BLEEPED

We have two words for you: Ryan Seacrest.

There’s nothing special or flashy about Ryan, and he brought the same amateur hour spirit to the Emmys normally reserved for “American Idol.”

RYAN MAKES EVERYONE UNCOMFORTABLE

And James Spader over James Gandolfini for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series? Emmy deserved the hit.

BAD PRESENTERS. BAD, BAD…and then there was James…

Antoria Gillon wasn’t going to let a little thing like going into labor stop her from her dream of becoming the next “American Idol.”

Antoria went into labor while waiting with 13,500 hopefuls at Texas Stadium. As she got closer to her audition time, she realized she was in labor. Determined not to miss her shot at fame, Gillon sang her best while in the midst of contractions.

After completing the audition and learning she will return for the next round, Antoria was taken to a local hospital, where she gave birth to a healthy son – whom she named Jamil Labarron Idol McCowan.

Baby Idol arrived early Tuesday morning and weighed 6 lbs. 7oz.