Upfronts: Blogging from Univision, Chapter 4

Shakira brought the house down when she closed the lively 75-minute presentation with three of her biggest hits. The mini-concert was like a shot of badly needed espresso on this upfront hump day.

We can also confirm that Shakira's hips do not, in fact, lie.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

After four decades on the air, "Sabado Gigante" is undergoing a makeover. Its creator and host, Don Francisco, appeared on stage to announce that next fall he's launching "El Nuevo Sabado Gigante" ("The New Giant Saturday") and it's "going to be more gigantic than ever."

Of course, he didn't stay long enough to dish how.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

One day after the groundbreaking Broadway musical "In the Heights" received 13 Tony nominations, its young, bicultural cast opened Univision's upfront. You could not help but be riveted as they performed and proved why the show is so caliente.

Then lead character Usnavi (Javier Munos), who explained how his father gave him his moniker when he passed a U.S. Navy ship on the way to America, took over as host.

"Have you seen the cast of 'In the Heights?'" he asked the audience, referring to their different races and varying Latino cultural backgrounds.

"You're looking at the future of the U.S. ...Ignore us and our increasingly fat wallets at your peril."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy Amy Sussman/Getty Images (L-R, top) Cast members Mandy Gonzalez, Seth Stewart, Robin De Jesus, Janet Dacal, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Andrea Burns, (L-R, bottom) Carlos Gomez, Karen Olivo and Christopher Jackson.)

Univision knows how to flirt. Before the presentation at Frederick P. Rose Hall, slogans on a big screen used the four-color "U" that is the network's logo to court buyers while songs such as "It Had To Be You," "You Light Up My Life," "You Are My Sunshine" played in the background.

Some of the slogans:

Everything I do, I do for U
U are the apple of my eye.
U asked for it, U got it
U make me feel like a natural woman.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS' fall schedule, with new shows in bold:

MONDAY

8:00-8:30 p.m.              "THE BIG BANG THEORY"

8:30-9:00                      "HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER"

9:00-9:30                     "TWO AND A HALF MEN"

9:30-10:00                   "WORST WEEK"

10:00-11:00                 "CSI: MIAMI"

TUESDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "NCIS"

9:00-10:00                    "THE MENTALIST"

10:00-11:00                  "WITHOUT A TRACE"

WEDNESDAY

8:00-8:30 p.m.              "THE NEW ADVENTURES OF OLD CHRISTINE"

8:30-9:00                     "PROJECT GARY"

9:00-10:00                    "CRIMINAL MINDS"

10:00-11:00                  "CSI: NY"

THURSDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "SURVIVOR"

9:00-10:00                    "CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION"

10:00-11:00                  "ELEVENTH HOUR"

FRIDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.            "GHOST WHISPERER"

9:00-10:00                 "THE EX LIST"

10:00-11:00              "NUMB3RS"

SATURDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "CRIMETIME SATURDAY"

9:00-10:00                   "CRIMETIME SATURDAY"

10:00-11:00                 "48 HOURS MYSTERY"

SUNDAY

7:00-8:00 p.m.          "60 MINUTES"

8:00-9:00                 "THE AMAZING RACE"

9:00-10:00               "COLD CASE"

10:00-11:00             "THE UNIT"

They say it helps to have friends in high places, but sometimes, not so much.

When CBS announces its lineup Wednesday, "Shark" will not be on it. It doesn't matter, apparently, that actor James Woods and CBS Chief Executive Leslie Moonves have been friends for many years. Woods' first TV series is gone. (An earlier version of this post said Moonves was CBS' chairman. He is the network's chief executive.)

But the highly energetic actor isn't taking it too hard, though he admits he'd like a better understanding of why CBS broke up with him.

"We're a little baffled by the decision but we’re very supportive," Woods said Tuesday. "None of us can figure out quite why.  But we have no bad feelings. This show did an enormous amount for me personally. We all won doing the show."

Woods said he and the cast and crew were "very saddened" that the show didn't continue but they were trying to be positive.

"I think probably the strike was as devastating to our future as it was to many other shows," he said.  "It seems, in retrospect, not to be a very fruitful endeavor for a lot of people to be on strike. But particularly on us because our time slot had been moved against football for the first half of the season. And then we should have emerged and shown our strength in the second half of the season when the strike happened, some never got a chance to prove our mettle."

As in all breakups, the key is acceptance and moving on. Woods is ready.

"I've been offered a couple of movies and I'm very excited about that," he said.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

A familiar tune pounded through the speakers inside the CW tent:

Da na na na.

And everyone knew what it meant. The new "90210" era is upon us. Although we didn't get to see a trailer -- it hasn't been shot -- we did get treated to a promo shot modeled after the original title sequence.

The West Beverly High gang posed and frolicked: Shenae Grimes, Tristan Wilds, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Jessica Stroup and Michael Steger. Exactly what would you expect of them when you hear "Da na na na." Fun. Sexy. Intriguing.

But no one, strangely, got more applause than the actress who plays the drunk granny, Jessica Walter.

When the promo was over, the crowd was warned: "You wanna live in the Zip, you gotta live by the code."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The struggling network unveiled its new fall mantra: "The CW is OMG TV!"

- Maria Elena Fernandez

Three measly episodes is all it would have taken for creator Bill Lawrence to let go of “Scrubs” and be a happy (and fulfilled) camper.

But after 18 different time slots, NBC unceremoniously dumped the single-camera comedy, even though the writers had “meticulously” planned its final arc and they had only eight episodes left to produce.

“After seven years, they had no interest in it, and it was incredibly frustrating,” Lawrence said Tuesday, after ABC welcomed the show into its lineup. “The thing that I was most excited about was getting to finish ‘Scrubs’ out correctly.”

Enter ABC President of Entertainment Stephen McPherson, who developed it when he ran Touchstone Studios  (which is now ABC Studios). Assuming ABC was interested in giving “Scrubs” its final lap, Lawrence galvanized the writers and cast. They hired younger actors to play new interns. (McPherson said Tuesday that the old cast, including Zach Braff and Sarah Chalke, will remain with the show under a one-year contract.)

“We all had to get creatively inspired again,” Lawrence said. “And that meant going back to the show’s roots. Being more and more real and less cartoony and less silly. In our heads, this was our last hurrah!”

Then McPherson started talking about the future, one he had envisioned years ago when he pictured it as a comedy version of “ER” that could last years with rotating characters.

“I can shockingly see it happening because it seems very fresh and new right now,” Lawrence said.  “Regardless, this season feels like an end to the eight-season story we’re telling. If we were to go on, I would almost guarantee that it would be in a new and hopefully creatively exciting direction. If it’s not an embarrassment and there’s a chance to keep people working, I would do everything I could to make it something we could all be proud of.”

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

"Rules of Engagement" is no longer on the bubble. We hear the sophomore comedy got its pickup from CBS today. It remains to be seen when the show, about two couples and their single friend (David Spade), will be on the schedule.

The comedy is part of a quartet of shows -- including "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Unit" -- that got late reprieves this week.

-- Matea Gold

Walt Disney Co. is trying to get inside the minds of television viewers.

The Burbank-based entertainment company, with its profitable ESPN and ABC networks, said Tuesday that it was developing an "emerging media and advertising research lab"  to try to figure out why people watch the shows they do.

ABC made the announcement as part of its presentation to advertisers in New York City to kick off the industry's springtime television sales season. ESPN entertained advertisers this morning, and ABC is scheduled to unveil its fall schedule this afternoon.

The new research center will be based in Austin, Texas, and will test a variety of advertising practices to discern how receptive consumers are to products that are integrated into shows, whether people pay attention to split screens and how they watch programs on small mobile devices.  Disney did not say when the center would open.

The effort is part of a company-wide campaign to bring its advertising sales strategy into the 21st century because behavioral research about consumers is becoming increasingly available with the transition to digital television. Now, television networks have second-by-second viewing data available, through Nielsen Media Research, TiVo and cable television operators, which should help them analyze viewers' TV consumption choices.

Mike Shaw, ABC's advertising sales president, separately said that his team has developed a new metrics tool that he called the "advertising value index" that he said should help corporate advertisers figure out what shows have the greatest appeal to their targeted consumers.

"We want to take a deeper dive into the audience itself," Shaw told reporters at an early morning news conference at the ABC offices on Manhattan's Upper West Side. "We think this is kind of a step forward and I think the market will embrace it."

A few days ago, the CBS comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine," starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was thought to be a bubble show on the bad side of the bubble. But it has in fact been ordered for a third season.

The network, which will unveil its schedule Wednesday in New York City during this upfronts week, has ordered 22 more episodes of the comedy. It  reportedly has not yet decided on a time period for the show.

-- Kate Aurthur

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: Blogging from Univision 3, 'Sabado Gigante' gets a makeover

After four decades on the air, "Sabado Gigante" is undergoing a makeover. Its creator and host, Don Francisco, appeared on stage to announce that next fall he's launching "El Nuevo Sabado Gigante" ("The New Giant Saturday") and it's "going to be more gigantic than ever."

Of course, he didn't stay long enough to dish how.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

One day after the groundbreaking Broadway musical "In the Heights" received 13 Tony nominations, its young, bicultural cast opened Univision's upfront. You could not help but be riveted as they performed and proved why the show is so caliente.

Then lead character Usnavi (Javier Munos), who explained how his father gave him his moniker when he passed a U.S. Navy ship on the way to America, took over as host.

"Have you seen the cast of 'In the Heights?'" he asked the audience, referring to their different races and varying Latino cultural backgrounds.

"You're looking at the future of the U.S. ...Ignore us and our increasingly fat wallets at your peril."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy Amy Sussman/Getty Images (L-R, top) Cast members Mandy Gonzalez, Seth Stewart, Robin De Jesus, Janet Dacal, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Andrea Burns, (L-R, bottom) Carlos Gomez, Karen Olivo and Christopher Jackson.)

Univision knows how to flirt. Before the presentation at Frederick P. Rose Hall, slogans on a big screen used the four-color "U" that is the network's logo to court buyers while songs such as "It Had To Be You," "You Light Up My Life," "You Are My Sunshine" played in the background.

Some of the slogans:

Everything I do, I do for U
U are the apple of my eye.
U asked for it, U got it
U make me feel like a natural woman.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS' fall schedule, with new shows in bold:

MONDAY

8:00-8:30 p.m.              "THE BIG BANG THEORY"

8:30-9:00                      "HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER"

9:00-9:30                     "TWO AND A HALF MEN"

9:30-10:00                   "WORST WEEK"

10:00-11:00                 "CSI: MIAMI"

TUESDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "NCIS"

9:00-10:00                    "THE MENTALIST"

10:00-11:00                  "WITHOUT A TRACE"

WEDNESDAY

8:00-8:30 p.m.              "THE NEW ADVENTURES OF OLD CHRISTINE"

8:30-9:00                     "PROJECT GARY"

9:00-10:00                    "CRIMINAL MINDS"

10:00-11:00                  "CSI: NY"

THURSDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "SURVIVOR"

9:00-10:00                    "CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION"

10:00-11:00                  "ELEVENTH HOUR"

FRIDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.            "GHOST WHISPERER"

9:00-10:00                 "THE EX LIST"

10:00-11:00              "NUMB3RS"

SATURDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "CRIMETIME SATURDAY"

9:00-10:00                   "CRIMETIME SATURDAY"

10:00-11:00                 "48 HOURS MYSTERY"

SUNDAY

7:00-8:00 p.m.          "60 MINUTES"

8:00-9:00                 "THE AMAZING RACE"

9:00-10:00               "COLD CASE"

10:00-11:00             "THE UNIT"

They say it helps to have friends in high places, but sometimes, not so much.

When CBS announces its lineup Wednesday, "Shark" will not be on it. It doesn't matter, apparently, that actor James Woods and CBS Chief Executive Leslie Moonves have been friends for many years. Woods' first TV series is gone. (An earlier version of this post said Moonves was CBS' chairman. He is the network's chief executive.)

But the highly energetic actor isn't taking it too hard, though he admits he'd like a better understanding of why CBS broke up with him.

"We're a little baffled by the decision but we’re very supportive," Woods said Tuesday. "None of us can figure out quite why.  But we have no bad feelings. This show did an enormous amount for me personally. We all won doing the show."

Woods said he and the cast and crew were "very saddened" that the show didn't continue but they were trying to be positive.

"I think probably the strike was as devastating to our future as it was to many other shows," he said.  "It seems, in retrospect, not to be a very fruitful endeavor for a lot of people to be on strike. But particularly on us because our time slot had been moved against football for the first half of the season. And then we should have emerged and shown our strength in the second half of the season when the strike happened, some never got a chance to prove our mettle."

As in all breakups, the key is acceptance and moving on. Woods is ready.

"I've been offered a couple of movies and I'm very excited about that," he said.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

A familiar tune pounded through the speakers inside the CW tent:

Da na na na.

And everyone knew what it meant. The new "90210" era is upon us. Although we didn't get to see a trailer -- it hasn't been shot -- we did get treated to a promo shot modeled after the original title sequence.

The West Beverly High gang posed and frolicked: Shenae Grimes, Tristan Wilds, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Jessica Stroup and Michael Steger. Exactly what would you expect of them when you hear "Da na na na." Fun. Sexy. Intriguing.

But no one, strangely, got more applause than the actress who plays the drunk granny, Jessica Walter.

When the promo was over, the crowd was warned: "You wanna live in the Zip, you gotta live by the code."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The struggling network unveiled its new fall mantra: "The CW is OMG TV!"

- Maria Elena Fernandez

Three measly episodes is all it would have taken for creator Bill Lawrence to let go of “Scrubs” and be a happy (and fulfilled) camper.

But after 18 different time slots, NBC unceremoniously dumped the single-camera comedy, even though the writers had “meticulously” planned its final arc and they had only eight episodes left to produce.

“After seven years, they had no interest in it, and it was incredibly frustrating,” Lawrence said Tuesday, after ABC welcomed the show into its lineup. “The thing that I was most excited about was getting to finish ‘Scrubs’ out correctly.”

Enter ABC President of Entertainment Stephen McPherson, who developed it when he ran Touchstone Studios  (which is now ABC Studios). Assuming ABC was interested in giving “Scrubs” its final lap, Lawrence galvanized the writers and cast. They hired younger actors to play new interns. (McPherson said Tuesday that the old cast, including Zach Braff and Sarah Chalke, will remain with the show under a one-year contract.)

“We all had to get creatively inspired again,” Lawrence said. “And that meant going back to the show’s roots. Being more and more real and less cartoony and less silly. In our heads, this was our last hurrah!”

Then McPherson started talking about the future, one he had envisioned years ago when he pictured it as a comedy version of “ER” that could last years with rotating characters.

“I can shockingly see it happening because it seems very fresh and new right now,” Lawrence said.  “Regardless, this season feels like an end to the eight-season story we’re telling. If we were to go on, I would almost guarantee that it would be in a new and hopefully creatively exciting direction. If it’s not an embarrassment and there’s a chance to keep people working, I would do everything I could to make it something we could all be proud of.”

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

"Rules of Engagement" is no longer on the bubble. We hear the sophomore comedy got its pickup from CBS today. It remains to be seen when the show, about two couples and their single friend (David Spade), will be on the schedule.

The comedy is part of a quartet of shows -- including "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Unit" -- that got late reprieves this week.

-- Matea Gold

Walt Disney Co. is trying to get inside the minds of television viewers.

The Burbank-based entertainment company, with its profitable ESPN and ABC networks, said Tuesday that it was developing an "emerging media and advertising research lab"  to try to figure out why people watch the shows they do.

ABC made the announcement as part of its presentation to advertisers in New York City to kick off the industry's springtime television sales season. ESPN entertained advertisers this morning, and ABC is scheduled to unveil its fall schedule this afternoon.

The new research center will be based in Austin, Texas, and will test a variety of advertising practices to discern how receptive consumers are to products that are integrated into shows, whether people pay attention to split screens and how they watch programs on small mobile devices.  Disney did not say when the center would open.

The effort is part of a company-wide campaign to bring its advertising sales strategy into the 21st century because behavioral research about consumers is becoming increasingly available with the transition to digital television. Now, television networks have second-by-second viewing data available, through Nielsen Media Research, TiVo and cable television operators, which should help them analyze viewers' TV consumption choices.

Mike Shaw, ABC's advertising sales president, separately said that his team has developed a new metrics tool that he called the "advertising value index" that he said should help corporate advertisers figure out what shows have the greatest appeal to their targeted consumers.

"We want to take a deeper dive into the audience itself," Shaw told reporters at an early morning news conference at the ABC offices on Manhattan's Upper West Side. "We think this is kind of a step forward and I think the market will embrace it."

A few days ago, the CBS comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine," starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was thought to be a bubble show on the bad side of the bubble. But it has in fact been ordered for a third season.

The network, which will unveil its schedule Wednesday in New York City during this upfronts week, has ordered 22 more episodes of the comedy. It  reportedly has not yet decided on a time period for the show.

-- Kate Aurthur

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: Blogging from Univision, Chapter 2

One day after the groundbreaking Broadway musical "In the Heights" received 13 Tony nominations, its young, bicultural cast opened Univision's upfront. You could not help but be riveted as they performed and proved why the show is so caliente.

Then lead character Usnavi (Javier Munos), who explained how his father gave him his moniker when he passed a U.S. Navy ship on the way to America, took over as host.

"Have you seen the cast of 'In the Heights?'" he asked the audience, referring to their different races and varying Latino cultural backgrounds.

"You're looking at the future of the U.S. ...Ignore us and our increasingly fat wallets at your peril."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy Amy Sussman/Getty Images (L-R, top) Cast members Mandy Gonzalez, Seth Stewart, Robin De Jesus, Janet Dacal, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Andrea Burns, (L-R, bottom) Carlos Gomez, Karen Olivo and Christopher Jackson.)

Univision knows how to flirt. Before the presentation at Frederick P. Rose Hall, slogans on a big screen used the four-color "U" that is the network's logo to court buyers while songs such as "It Had To Be You," "You Light Up My Life," "You Are My Sunshine" played in the background.

Some of the slogans:

Everything I do, I do for U
U are the apple of my eye.
U asked for it, U got it
U make me feel like a natural woman.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS' fall schedule, with new shows in bold:

MONDAY

8:00-8:30 p.m.              "THE BIG BANG THEORY"

8:30-9:00                      "HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER"

9:00-9:30                     "TWO AND A HALF MEN"

9:30-10:00                   "WORST WEEK"

10:00-11:00                 "CSI: MIAMI"

TUESDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "NCIS"

9:00-10:00                    "THE MENTALIST"

10:00-11:00                  "WITHOUT A TRACE"

WEDNESDAY

8:00-8:30 p.m.              "THE NEW ADVENTURES OF OLD CHRISTINE"

8:30-9:00                     "PROJECT GARY"

9:00-10:00                    "CRIMINAL MINDS"

10:00-11:00                  "CSI: NY"

THURSDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "SURVIVOR"

9:00-10:00                    "CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION"

10:00-11:00                  "ELEVENTH HOUR"

FRIDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.            "GHOST WHISPERER"

9:00-10:00                 "THE EX LIST"

10:00-11:00              "NUMB3RS"

SATURDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "CRIMETIME SATURDAY"

9:00-10:00                   "CRIMETIME SATURDAY"

10:00-11:00                 "48 HOURS MYSTERY"

SUNDAY

7:00-8:00 p.m.          "60 MINUTES"

8:00-9:00                 "THE AMAZING RACE"

9:00-10:00               "COLD CASE"

10:00-11:00             "THE UNIT"

They say it helps to have friends in high places, but sometimes, not so much.

When CBS announces its lineup Wednesday, "Shark" will not be on it. It doesn't matter, apparently, that actor James Woods and CBS Chief Executive Leslie Moonves have been friends for many years. Woods' first TV series is gone. (An earlier version of this post said Moonves was CBS' chairman. He is the network's chief executive.)

But the highly energetic actor isn't taking it too hard, though he admits he'd like a better understanding of why CBS broke up with him.

"We're a little baffled by the decision but we’re very supportive," Woods said Tuesday. "None of us can figure out quite why.  But we have no bad feelings. This show did an enormous amount for me personally. We all won doing the show."

Woods said he and the cast and crew were "very saddened" that the show didn't continue but they were trying to be positive.

"I think probably the strike was as devastating to our future as it was to many other shows," he said.  "It seems, in retrospect, not to be a very fruitful endeavor for a lot of people to be on strike. But particularly on us because our time slot had been moved against football for the first half of the season. And then we should have emerged and shown our strength in the second half of the season when the strike happened, some never got a chance to prove our mettle."

As in all breakups, the key is acceptance and moving on. Woods is ready.

"I've been offered a couple of movies and I'm very excited about that," he said.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

A familiar tune pounded through the speakers inside the CW tent:

Da na na na.

And everyone knew what it meant. The new "90210" era is upon us. Although we didn't get to see a trailer -- it hasn't been shot -- we did get treated to a promo shot modeled after the original title sequence.

The West Beverly High gang posed and frolicked: Shenae Grimes, Tristan Wilds, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Jessica Stroup and Michael Steger. Exactly what would you expect of them when you hear "Da na na na." Fun. Sexy. Intriguing.

But no one, strangely, got more applause than the actress who plays the drunk granny, Jessica Walter.

When the promo was over, the crowd was warned: "You wanna live in the Zip, you gotta live by the code."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The struggling network unveiled its new fall mantra: "The CW is OMG TV!"

- Maria Elena Fernandez

Three measly episodes is all it would have taken for creator Bill Lawrence to let go of “Scrubs” and be a happy (and fulfilled) camper.

But after 18 different time slots, NBC unceremoniously dumped the single-camera comedy, even though the writers had “meticulously” planned its final arc and they had only eight episodes left to produce.

“After seven years, they had no interest in it, and it was incredibly frustrating,” Lawrence said Tuesday, after ABC welcomed the show into its lineup. “The thing that I was most excited about was getting to finish ‘Scrubs’ out correctly.”

Enter ABC President of Entertainment Stephen McPherson, who developed it when he ran Touchstone Studios  (which is now ABC Studios). Assuming ABC was interested in giving “Scrubs” its final lap, Lawrence galvanized the writers and cast. They hired younger actors to play new interns. (McPherson said Tuesday that the old cast, including Zach Braff and Sarah Chalke, will remain with the show under a one-year contract.)

“We all had to get creatively inspired again,” Lawrence said. “And that meant going back to the show’s roots. Being more and more real and less cartoony and less silly. In our heads, this was our last hurrah!”

Then McPherson started talking about the future, one he had envisioned years ago when he pictured it as a comedy version of “ER” that could last years with rotating characters.

“I can shockingly see it happening because it seems very fresh and new right now,” Lawrence said.  “Regardless, this season feels like an end to the eight-season story we’re telling. If we were to go on, I would almost guarantee that it would be in a new and hopefully creatively exciting direction. If it’s not an embarrassment and there’s a chance to keep people working, I would do everything I could to make it something we could all be proud of.”

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

"Rules of Engagement" is no longer on the bubble. We hear the sophomore comedy got its pickup from CBS today. It remains to be seen when the show, about two couples and their single friend (David Spade), will be on the schedule.

The comedy is part of a quartet of shows -- including "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Unit" -- that got late reprieves this week.

-- Matea Gold

Walt Disney Co. is trying to get inside the minds of television viewers.

The Burbank-based entertainment company, with its profitable ESPN and ABC networks, said Tuesday that it was developing an "emerging media and advertising research lab"  to try to figure out why people watch the shows they do.

ABC made the announcement as part of its presentation to advertisers in New York City to kick off the industry's springtime television sales season. ESPN entertained advertisers this morning, and ABC is scheduled to unveil its fall schedule this afternoon.

The new research center will be based in Austin, Texas, and will test a variety of advertising practices to discern how receptive consumers are to products that are integrated into shows, whether people pay attention to split screens and how they watch programs on small mobile devices.  Disney did not say when the center would open.

The effort is part of a company-wide campaign to bring its advertising sales strategy into the 21st century because behavioral research about consumers is becoming increasingly available with the transition to digital television. Now, television networks have second-by-second viewing data available, through Nielsen Media Research, TiVo and cable television operators, which should help them analyze viewers' TV consumption choices.

Mike Shaw, ABC's advertising sales president, separately said that his team has developed a new metrics tool that he called the "advertising value index" that he said should help corporate advertisers figure out what shows have the greatest appeal to their targeted consumers.

"We want to take a deeper dive into the audience itself," Shaw told reporters at an early morning news conference at the ABC offices on Manhattan's Upper West Side. "We think this is kind of a step forward and I think the market will embrace it."

A few days ago, the CBS comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine," starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was thought to be a bubble show on the bad side of the bubble. But it has in fact been ordered for a third season.

The network, which will unveil its schedule Wednesday in New York City during this upfronts week, has ordered 22 more episodes of the comedy. It  reportedly has not yet decided on a time period for the show.

-- Kate Aurthur

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: Blogging from Univision, Chapter 1

Univision knows how to flirt. Before the presentation at Frederick P. Rose Hall, slogans on a big screen used the four-color "U" that is the network's logo to court buyers while songs such as "It Had To Be You," "You Light Up My Life," "You Are My Sunshine" played in the background.

Some of the slogans:

Everything I do, I do for U
U are the apple of my eye.
U asked for it, U got it
U make me feel like a natural woman.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS' fall schedule, with new shows in bold:

MONDAY

8:00-8:30 p.m.              "THE BIG BANG THEORY"

8:30-9:00                      "HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER"

9:00-9:30                     "TWO AND A HALF MEN"

9:30-10:00                   "WORST WEEK"

10:00-11:00                 "CSI: MIAMI"

TUESDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "NCIS"

9:00-10:00                    "THE MENTALIST"

10:00-11:00                  "WITHOUT A TRACE"

WEDNESDAY

8:00-8:30 p.m.              "THE NEW ADVENTURES OF OLD CHRISTINE"

8:30-9:00                     "PROJECT GARY"

9:00-10:00                    "CRIMINAL MINDS"

10:00-11:00                  "CSI: NY"

THURSDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "SURVIVOR"

9:00-10:00                    "CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION"

10:00-11:00                  "ELEVENTH HOUR"

FRIDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.            "GHOST WHISPERER"

9:00-10:00                 "THE EX LIST"

10:00-11:00              "NUMB3RS"

SATURDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "CRIMETIME SATURDAY"

9:00-10:00                   "CRIMETIME SATURDAY"

10:00-11:00                 "48 HOURS MYSTERY"

SUNDAY

7:00-8:00 p.m.          "60 MINUTES"

8:00-9:00                 "THE AMAZING RACE"

9:00-10:00               "COLD CASE"

10:00-11:00             "THE UNIT"

They say it helps to have friends in high places, but sometimes, not so much.

When CBS announces its lineup Wednesday, "Shark" will not be on it. It doesn't matter, apparently, that actor James Woods and CBS Chief Executive Leslie Moonves have been friends for many years. Woods' first TV series is gone. (An earlier version of this post said Moonves was CBS' chairman. He is the network's chief executive.)

But the highly energetic actor isn't taking it too hard, though he admits he'd like a better understanding of why CBS broke up with him.

"We're a little baffled by the decision but we’re very supportive," Woods said Tuesday. "None of us can figure out quite why.  But we have no bad feelings. This show did an enormous amount for me personally. We all won doing the show."

Woods said he and the cast and crew were "very saddened" that the show didn't continue but they were trying to be positive.

"I think probably the strike was as devastating to our future as it was to many other shows," he said.  "It seems, in retrospect, not to be a very fruitful endeavor for a lot of people to be on strike. But particularly on us because our time slot had been moved against football for the first half of the season. And then we should have emerged and shown our strength in the second half of the season when the strike happened, some never got a chance to prove our mettle."

As in all breakups, the key is acceptance and moving on. Woods is ready.

"I've been offered a couple of movies and I'm very excited about that," he said.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

A familiar tune pounded through the speakers inside the CW tent:

Da na na na.

And everyone knew what it meant. The new "90210" era is upon us. Although we didn't get to see a trailer -- it hasn't been shot -- we did get treated to a promo shot modeled after the original title sequence.

The West Beverly High gang posed and frolicked: Shenae Grimes, Tristan Wilds, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Jessica Stroup and Michael Steger. Exactly what would you expect of them when you hear "Da na na na." Fun. Sexy. Intriguing.

But no one, strangely, got more applause than the actress who plays the drunk granny, Jessica Walter.

When the promo was over, the crowd was warned: "You wanna live in the Zip, you gotta live by the code."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The struggling network unveiled its new fall mantra: "The CW is OMG TV!"

- Maria Elena Fernandez

Three measly episodes is all it would have taken for creator Bill Lawrence to let go of “Scrubs” and be a happy (and fulfilled) camper.

But after 18 different time slots, NBC unceremoniously dumped the single-camera comedy, even though the writers had “meticulously” planned its final arc and they had only eight episodes left to produce.

“After seven years, they had no interest in it, and it was incredibly frustrating,” Lawrence said Tuesday, after ABC welcomed the show into its lineup. “The thing that I was most excited about was getting to finish ‘Scrubs’ out correctly.”

Enter ABC President of Entertainment Stephen McPherson, who developed it when he ran Touchstone Studios  (which is now ABC Studios). Assuming ABC was interested in giving “Scrubs” its final lap, Lawrence galvanized the writers and cast. They hired younger actors to play new interns. (McPherson said Tuesday that the old cast, including Zach Braff and Sarah Chalke, will remain with the show under a one-year contract.)

“We all had to get creatively inspired again,” Lawrence said. “And that meant going back to the show’s roots. Being more and more real and less cartoony and less silly. In our heads, this was our last hurrah!”

Then McPherson started talking about the future, one he had envisioned years ago when he pictured it as a comedy version of “ER” that could last years with rotating characters.

“I can shockingly see it happening because it seems very fresh and new right now,” Lawrence said.  “Regardless, this season feels like an end to the eight-season story we’re telling. If we were to go on, I would almost guarantee that it would be in a new and hopefully creatively exciting direction. If it’s not an embarrassment and there’s a chance to keep people working, I would do everything I could to make it something we could all be proud of.”

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

"Rules of Engagement" is no longer on the bubble. We hear the sophomore comedy got its pickup from CBS today. It remains to be seen when the show, about two couples and their single friend (David Spade), will be on the schedule.

The comedy is part of a quartet of shows -- including "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Unit" -- that got late reprieves this week.

-- Matea Gold

Walt Disney Co. is trying to get inside the minds of television viewers.

The Burbank-based entertainment company, with its profitable ESPN and ABC networks, said Tuesday that it was developing an "emerging media and advertising research lab"  to try to figure out why people watch the shows they do.

ABC made the announcement as part of its presentation to advertisers in New York City to kick off the industry's springtime television sales season. ESPN entertained advertisers this morning, and ABC is scheduled to unveil its fall schedule this afternoon.

The new research center will be based in Austin, Texas, and will test a variety of advertising practices to discern how receptive consumers are to products that are integrated into shows, whether people pay attention to split screens and how they watch programs on small mobile devices.  Disney did not say when the center would open.

The effort is part of a company-wide campaign to bring its advertising sales strategy into the 21st century because behavioral research about consumers is becoming increasingly available with the transition to digital television. Now, television networks have second-by-second viewing data available, through Nielsen Media Research, TiVo and cable television operators, which should help them analyze viewers' TV consumption choices.

Mike Shaw, ABC's advertising sales president, separately said that his team has developed a new metrics tool that he called the "advertising value index" that he said should help corporate advertisers figure out what shows have the greatest appeal to their targeted consumers.

"We want to take a deeper dive into the audience itself," Shaw told reporters at an early morning news conference at the ABC offices on Manhattan's Upper West Side. "We think this is kind of a step forward and I think the market will embrace it."

A few days ago, the CBS comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine," starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was thought to be a bubble show on the bad side of the bubble. But it has in fact been ordered for a third season.

The network, which will unveil its schedule Wednesday in New York City during this upfronts week, has ordered 22 more episodes of the comedy. It  reportedly has not yet decided on a time period for the show.

-- Kate Aurthur

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: the CBS fall schedule

CBS' fall schedule, with new shows in bold:

MONDAY

8:00-8:30 p.m.              "THE BIG BANG THEORY"

8:30-9:00                      "HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER"

9:00-9:30                     "TWO AND A HALF MEN"

9:30-10:00                   "WORST WEEK"

10:00-11:00                 "CSI: MIAMI"

TUESDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "NCIS"

9:00-10:00                    "THE MENTALIST"

10:00-11:00                  "WITHOUT A TRACE"

WEDNESDAY

8:00-8:30 p.m.              "THE NEW ADVENTURES OF OLD CHRISTINE"

8:30-9:00                     "PROJECT GARY"

9:00-10:00                    "CRIMINAL MINDS"

10:00-11:00                  "CSI: NY"

THURSDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "SURVIVOR"

9:00-10:00                    "CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION"

10:00-11:00                  "ELEVENTH HOUR"

FRIDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.            "GHOST WHISPERER"

9:00-10:00                 "THE EX LIST"

10:00-11:00              "NUMB3RS"

SATURDAY

8:00-9:00 p.m.              "CRIMETIME SATURDAY"

9:00-10:00                   "CRIMETIME SATURDAY"

10:00-11:00                 "48 HOURS MYSTERY"

SUNDAY

7:00-8:00 p.m.          "60 MINUTES"

8:00-9:00                 "THE AMAZING RACE"

9:00-10:00               "COLD CASE"

10:00-11:00             "THE UNIT"

They say it helps to have friends in high places, but sometimes, not so much.

When CBS announces its lineup Wednesday, "Shark" will not be on it. It doesn't matter, apparently, that actor James Woods and CBS Chief Executive Leslie Moonves have been friends for many years. Woods' first TV series is gone. (An earlier version of this post said Moonves was CBS' chairman. He is the network's chief executive.)

But the highly energetic actor isn't taking it too hard, though he admits he'd like a better understanding of why CBS broke up with him.

"We're a little baffled by the decision but we’re very supportive," Woods said Tuesday. "None of us can figure out quite why.  But we have no bad feelings. This show did an enormous amount for me personally. We all won doing the show."

Woods said he and the cast and crew were "very saddened" that the show didn't continue but they were trying to be positive.

"I think probably the strike was as devastating to our future as it was to many other shows," he said.  "It seems, in retrospect, not to be a very fruitful endeavor for a lot of people to be on strike. But particularly on us because our time slot had been moved against football for the first half of the season. And then we should have emerged and shown our strength in the second half of the season when the strike happened, some never got a chance to prove our mettle."

As in all breakups, the key is acceptance and moving on. Woods is ready.

"I've been offered a couple of movies and I'm very excited about that," he said.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

A familiar tune pounded through the speakers inside the CW tent:

Da na na na.

And everyone knew what it meant. The new "90210" era is upon us. Although we didn't get to see a trailer -- it hasn't been shot -- we did get treated to a promo shot modeled after the original title sequence.

The West Beverly High gang posed and frolicked: Shenae Grimes, Tristan Wilds, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Jessica Stroup and Michael Steger. Exactly what would you expect of them when you hear "Da na na na." Fun. Sexy. Intriguing.

But no one, strangely, got more applause than the actress who plays the drunk granny, Jessica Walter.

When the promo was over, the crowd was warned: "You wanna live in the Zip, you gotta live by the code."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The struggling network unveiled its new fall mantra: "The CW is OMG TV!"

- Maria Elena Fernandez

Three measly episodes is all it would have taken for creator Bill Lawrence to let go of “Scrubs” and be a happy (and fulfilled) camper.

But after 18 different time slots, NBC unceremoniously dumped the single-camera comedy, even though the writers had “meticulously” planned its final arc and they had only eight episodes left to produce.

“After seven years, they had no interest in it, and it was incredibly frustrating,” Lawrence said Tuesday, after ABC welcomed the show into its lineup. “The thing that I was most excited about was getting to finish ‘Scrubs’ out correctly.”

Enter ABC President of Entertainment Stephen McPherson, who developed it when he ran Touchstone Studios  (which is now ABC Studios). Assuming ABC was interested in giving “Scrubs” its final lap, Lawrence galvanized the writers and cast. They hired younger actors to play new interns. (McPherson said Tuesday that the old cast, including Zach Braff and Sarah Chalke, will remain with the show under a one-year contract.)

“We all had to get creatively inspired again,” Lawrence said. “And that meant going back to the show’s roots. Being more and more real and less cartoony and less silly. In our heads, this was our last hurrah!”

Then McPherson started talking about the future, one he had envisioned years ago when he pictured it as a comedy version of “ER” that could last years with rotating characters.

“I can shockingly see it happening because it seems very fresh and new right now,” Lawrence said.  “Regardless, this season feels like an end to the eight-season story we’re telling. If we were to go on, I would almost guarantee that it would be in a new and hopefully creatively exciting direction. If it’s not an embarrassment and there’s a chance to keep people working, I would do everything I could to make it something we could all be proud of.”

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

"Rules of Engagement" is no longer on the bubble. We hear the sophomore comedy got its pickup from CBS today. It remains to be seen when the show, about two couples and their single friend (David Spade), will be on the schedule.

The comedy is part of a quartet of shows -- including "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Unit" -- that got late reprieves this week.

-- Matea Gold

Walt Disney Co. is trying to get inside the minds of television viewers.

The Burbank-based entertainment company, with its profitable ESPN and ABC networks, said Tuesday that it was developing an "emerging media and advertising research lab"  to try to figure out why people watch the shows they do.

ABC made the announcement as part of its presentation to advertisers in New York City to kick off the industry's springtime television sales season. ESPN entertained advertisers this morning, and ABC is scheduled to unveil its fall schedule this afternoon.

The new research center will be based in Austin, Texas, and will test a variety of advertising practices to discern how receptive consumers are to products that are integrated into shows, whether people pay attention to split screens and how they watch programs on small mobile devices.  Disney did not say when the center would open.

The effort is part of a company-wide campaign to bring its advertising sales strategy into the 21st century because behavioral research about consumers is becoming increasingly available with the transition to digital television. Now, television networks have second-by-second viewing data available, through Nielsen Media Research, TiVo and cable television operators, which should help them analyze viewers' TV consumption choices.

Mike Shaw, ABC's advertising sales president, separately said that his team has developed a new metrics tool that he called the "advertising value index" that he said should help corporate advertisers figure out what shows have the greatest appeal to their targeted consumers.

"We want to take a deeper dive into the audience itself," Shaw told reporters at an early morning news conference at the ABC offices on Manhattan's Upper West Side. "We think this is kind of a step forward and I think the market will embrace it."

A few days ago, the CBS comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine," starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was thought to be a bubble show on the bad side of the bubble. But it has in fact been ordered for a third season.

The network, which will unveil its schedule Wednesday in New York City during this upfronts week, has ordered 22 more episodes of the comedy. It  reportedly has not yet decided on a time period for the show.

-- Kate Aurthur

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: James Woods says goodbye to TV

They say it helps to have friends in high places, but sometimes, not so much.

When CBS announces its lineup Wednesday, "Shark" will not be on it. It doesn't matter, apparently, that actor James Woods and CBS Chief Executive Leslie Moonves have been friends for many years. Woods' first TV series is gone. (An earlier version of this post said Moonves was CBS' chairman. He is the network's chief executive.)

But the highly energetic actor isn't taking it too hard, though he admits he'd like a better understanding of why CBS broke up with him.

"We're a little baffled by the decision but we’re very supportive," Woods said Tuesday. "None of us can figure out quite why.  But we have no bad feelings. This show did an enormous amount for me personally. We all won doing the show."

Woods said he and the cast and crew were "very saddened" that the show didn't continue but they were trying to be positive.

"I think probably the strike was as devastating to our future as it was to many other shows," he said.  "It seems, in retrospect, not to be a very fruitful endeavor for a lot of people to be on strike. But particularly on us because our time slot had been moved against football for the first half of the season. And then we should have emerged and shown our strength in the second half of the season when the strike happened, some never got a chance to prove our mettle."

As in all breakups, the key is acceptance and moving on. Woods is ready.

"I've been offered a couple of movies and I'm very excited about that," he said.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

A familiar tune pounded through the speakers inside the CW tent:

Da na na na.

And everyone knew what it meant. The new "90210" era is upon us. Although we didn't get to see a trailer -- it hasn't been shot -- we did get treated to a promo shot modeled after the original title sequence.

The West Beverly High gang posed and frolicked: Shenae Grimes, Tristan Wilds, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Jessica Stroup and Michael Steger. Exactly what would you expect of them when you hear "Da na na na." Fun. Sexy. Intriguing.

But no one, strangely, got more applause than the actress who plays the drunk granny, Jessica Walter.

When the promo was over, the crowd was warned: "You wanna live in the Zip, you gotta live by the code."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The struggling network unveiled its new fall mantra: "The CW is OMG TV!"

- Maria Elena Fernandez

Three measly episodes is all it would have taken for creator Bill Lawrence to let go of “Scrubs” and be a happy (and fulfilled) camper.

But after 18 different time slots, NBC unceremoniously dumped the single-camera comedy, even though the writers had “meticulously” planned its final arc and they had only eight episodes left to produce.

“After seven years, they had no interest in it, and it was incredibly frustrating,” Lawrence said Tuesday, after ABC welcomed the show into its lineup. “The thing that I was most excited about was getting to finish ‘Scrubs’ out correctly.”

Enter ABC President of Entertainment Stephen McPherson, who developed it when he ran Touchstone Studios  (which is now ABC Studios). Assuming ABC was interested in giving “Scrubs” its final lap, Lawrence galvanized the writers and cast. They hired younger actors to play new interns. (McPherson said Tuesday that the old cast, including Zach Braff and Sarah Chalke, will remain with the show under a one-year contract.)

“We all had to get creatively inspired again,” Lawrence said. “And that meant going back to the show’s roots. Being more and more real and less cartoony and less silly. In our heads, this was our last hurrah!”

Then McPherson started talking about the future, one he had envisioned years ago when he pictured it as a comedy version of “ER” that could last years with rotating characters.

“I can shockingly see it happening because it seems very fresh and new right now,” Lawrence said.  “Regardless, this season feels like an end to the eight-season story we’re telling. If we were to go on, I would almost guarantee that it would be in a new and hopefully creatively exciting direction. If it’s not an embarrassment and there’s a chance to keep people working, I would do everything I could to make it something we could all be proud of.”

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

"Rules of Engagement" is no longer on the bubble. We hear the sophomore comedy got its pickup from CBS today. It remains to be seen when the show, about two couples and their single friend (David Spade), will be on the schedule.

The comedy is part of a quartet of shows -- including "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Unit" -- that got late reprieves this week.

-- Matea Gold

Walt Disney Co. is trying to get inside the minds of television viewers.

The Burbank-based entertainment company, with its profitable ESPN and ABC networks, said Tuesday that it was developing an "emerging media and advertising research lab"  to try to figure out why people watch the shows they do.

ABC made the announcement as part of its presentation to advertisers in New York City to kick off the industry's springtime television sales season. ESPN entertained advertisers this morning, and ABC is scheduled to unveil its fall schedule this afternoon.

The new research center will be based in Austin, Texas, and will test a variety of advertising practices to discern how receptive consumers are to products that are integrated into shows, whether people pay attention to split screens and how they watch programs on small mobile devices.  Disney did not say when the center would open.

The effort is part of a company-wide campaign to bring its advertising sales strategy into the 21st century because behavioral research about consumers is becoming increasingly available with the transition to digital television. Now, television networks have second-by-second viewing data available, through Nielsen Media Research, TiVo and cable television operators, which should help them analyze viewers' TV consumption choices.

Mike Shaw, ABC's advertising sales president, separately said that his team has developed a new metrics tool that he called the "advertising value index" that he said should help corporate advertisers figure out what shows have the greatest appeal to their targeted consumers.

"We want to take a deeper dive into the audience itself," Shaw told reporters at an early morning news conference at the ABC offices on Manhattan's Upper West Side. "We think this is kind of a step forward and I think the market will embrace it."

A few days ago, the CBS comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine," starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was thought to be a bubble show on the bad side of the bubble. But it has in fact been ordered for a third season.

The network, which will unveil its schedule Wednesday in New York City during this upfronts week, has ordered 22 more episodes of the comedy. It  reportedly has not yet decided on a time period for the show.

-- Kate Aurthur

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: The code of '90210'

A familiar tune pounded through the speakers inside the CW tent:

Da na na na.

And everyone knew what it meant. The new "90210" era is upon us. Although we didn't get to see a trailer -- it hasn't been shot -- we did get treated to a promo shot modeled after the original title sequence.

The West Beverly High gang posed and frolicked: Shenae Grimes, Tristan Wilds, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Jessica Stroup and Michael Steger. Exactly what would you expect of them when you hear "Da na na na." Fun. Sexy. Intriguing.

But no one, strangely, got more applause than the actress who plays the drunk granny, Jessica Walter.

When the promo was over, the crowd was warned: "You wanna live in the Zip, you gotta live by the code."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The struggling network unveiled its new fall mantra: "The CW is OMG TV!"

- Maria Elena Fernandez

Three measly episodes is all it would have taken for creator Bill Lawrence to let go of “Scrubs” and be a happy (and fulfilled) camper.

But after 18 different time slots, NBC unceremoniously dumped the single-camera comedy, even though the writers had “meticulously” planned its final arc and they had only eight episodes left to produce.

“After seven years, they had no interest in it, and it was incredibly frustrating,” Lawrence said Tuesday, after ABC welcomed the show into its lineup. “The thing that I was most excited about was getting to finish ‘Scrubs’ out correctly.”

Enter ABC President of Entertainment Stephen McPherson, who developed it when he ran Touchstone Studios  (which is now ABC Studios). Assuming ABC was interested in giving “Scrubs” its final lap, Lawrence galvanized the writers and cast. They hired younger actors to play new interns. (McPherson said Tuesday that the old cast, including Zach Braff and Sarah Chalke, will remain with the show under a one-year contract.)

“We all had to get creatively inspired again,” Lawrence said. “And that meant going back to the show’s roots. Being more and more real and less cartoony and less silly. In our heads, this was our last hurrah!”

Then McPherson started talking about the future, one he had envisioned years ago when he pictured it as a comedy version of “ER” that could last years with rotating characters.

“I can shockingly see it happening because it seems very fresh and new right now,” Lawrence said.  “Regardless, this season feels like an end to the eight-season story we’re telling. If we were to go on, I would almost guarantee that it would be in a new and hopefully creatively exciting direction. If it’s not an embarrassment and there’s a chance to keep people working, I would do everything I could to make it something we could all be proud of.”

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

"Rules of Engagement" is no longer on the bubble. We hear the sophomore comedy got its pickup from CBS today. It remains to be seen when the show, about two couples and their single friend (David Spade), will be on the schedule.

The comedy is part of a quartet of shows -- including "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Unit" -- that got late reprieves this week.

-- Matea Gold

Walt Disney Co. is trying to get inside the minds of television viewers.

The Burbank-based entertainment company, with its profitable ESPN and ABC networks, said Tuesday that it was developing an "emerging media and advertising research lab"  to try to figure out why people watch the shows they do.

ABC made the announcement as part of its presentation to advertisers in New York City to kick off the industry's springtime television sales season. ESPN entertained advertisers this morning, and ABC is scheduled to unveil its fall schedule this afternoon.

The new research center will be based in Austin, Texas, and will test a variety of advertising practices to discern how receptive consumers are to products that are integrated into shows, whether people pay attention to split screens and how they watch programs on small mobile devices.  Disney did not say when the center would open.

The effort is part of a company-wide campaign to bring its advertising sales strategy into the 21st century because behavioral research about consumers is becoming increasingly available with the transition to digital television. Now, television networks have second-by-second viewing data available, through Nielsen Media Research, TiVo and cable television operators, which should help them analyze viewers' TV consumption choices.

Mike Shaw, ABC's advertising sales president, separately said that his team has developed a new metrics tool that he called the "advertising value index" that he said should help corporate advertisers figure out what shows have the greatest appeal to their targeted consumers.

"We want to take a deeper dive into the audience itself," Shaw told reporters at an early morning news conference at the ABC offices on Manhattan's Upper West Side. "We think this is kind of a step forward and I think the market will embrace it."

A few days ago, the CBS comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine," starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was thought to be a bubble show on the bad side of the bubble. But it has in fact been ordered for a third season.

The network, which will unveil its schedule Wednesday in New York City during this upfronts week, has ordered 22 more episodes of the comedy. It  reportedly has not yet decided on a time period for the show.

-- Kate Aurthur

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: The CW says OMG!

The struggling network unveiled its new fall mantra: "The CW is OMG TV!"

- Maria Elena Fernandez

Three measly episodes is all it would have taken for creator Bill Lawrence to let go of “Scrubs” and be a happy (and fulfilled) camper.

But after 18 different time slots, NBC unceremoniously dumped the single-camera comedy, even though the writers had “meticulously” planned its final arc and they had only eight episodes left to produce.

“After seven years, they had no interest in it, and it was incredibly frustrating,” Lawrence said Tuesday, after ABC welcomed the show into its lineup. “The thing that I was most excited about was getting to finish ‘Scrubs’ out correctly.”

Enter ABC President of Entertainment Stephen McPherson, who developed it when he ran Touchstone Studios  (which is now ABC Studios). Assuming ABC was interested in giving “Scrubs” its final lap, Lawrence galvanized the writers and cast. They hired younger actors to play new interns. (McPherson said Tuesday that the old cast, including Zach Braff and Sarah Chalke, will remain with the show under a one-year contract.)

“We all had to get creatively inspired again,” Lawrence said. “And that meant going back to the show’s roots. Being more and more real and less cartoony and less silly. In our heads, this was our last hurrah!”

Then McPherson started talking about the future, one he had envisioned years ago when he pictured it as a comedy version of “ER” that could last years with rotating characters.

“I can shockingly see it happening because it seems very fresh and new right now,” Lawrence said.  “Regardless, this season feels like an end to the eight-season story we’re telling. If we were to go on, I would almost guarantee that it would be in a new and hopefully creatively exciting direction. If it’s not an embarrassment and there’s a chance to keep people working, I would do everything I could to make it something we could all be proud of.”

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

"Rules of Engagement" is no longer on the bubble. We hear the sophomore comedy got its pickup from CBS today. It remains to be seen when the show, about two couples and their single friend (David Spade), will be on the schedule.

The comedy is part of a quartet of shows -- including "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Unit" -- that got late reprieves this week.

-- Matea Gold

Walt Disney Co. is trying to get inside the minds of television viewers.

The Burbank-based entertainment company, with its profitable ESPN and ABC networks, said Tuesday that it was developing an "emerging media and advertising research lab"  to try to figure out why people watch the shows they do.

ABC made the announcement as part of its presentation to advertisers in New York City to kick off the industry's springtime television sales season. ESPN entertained advertisers this morning, and ABC is scheduled to unveil its fall schedule this afternoon.

The new research center will be based in Austin, Texas, and will test a variety of advertising practices to discern how receptive consumers are to products that are integrated into shows, whether people pay attention to split screens and how they watch programs on small mobile devices.  Disney did not say when the center would open.

The effort is part of a company-wide campaign to bring its advertising sales strategy into the 21st century because behavioral research about consumers is becoming increasingly available with the transition to digital television. Now, television networks have second-by-second viewing data available, through Nielsen Media Research, TiVo and cable television operators, which should help them analyze viewers' TV consumption choices.

Mike Shaw, ABC's advertising sales president, separately said that his team has developed a new metrics tool that he called the "advertising value index" that he said should help corporate advertisers figure out what shows have the greatest appeal to their targeted consumers.

"We want to take a deeper dive into the audience itself," Shaw told reporters at an early morning news conference at the ABC offices on Manhattan's Upper West Side. "We think this is kind of a step forward and I think the market will embrace it."

A few days ago, the CBS comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine," starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was thought to be a bubble show on the bad side of the bubble. But it has in fact been ordered for a third season.

The network, which will unveil its schedule Wednesday in New York City during this upfronts week, has ordered 22 more episodes of the comedy. It  reportedly has not yet decided on a time period for the show.

-- Kate Aurthur

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: 'Scrubs' creator reflects on the move to ABC

Three measly episodes is all it would have taken for creator Bill Lawrence to let go of “Scrubs” and be a happy (and fulfilled) camper.

But after 18 different time slots, NBC unceremoniously dumped the single-camera comedy, even though the writers had “meticulously” planned its final arc and they had only eight episodes left to produce.

“After seven years, they had no interest in it, and it was incredibly frustrating,” Lawrence said Tuesday, after ABC welcomed the show into its lineup. “The thing that I was most excited about was getting to finish ‘Scrubs’ out correctly.”

Enter ABC President of Entertainment Stephen McPherson, who developed it when he ran Touchstone Studios  (which is now ABC Studios). Assuming ABC was interested in giving “Scrubs” its final lap, Lawrence galvanized the writers and cast. They hired younger actors to play new interns. (McPherson said Tuesday that the old cast, including Zach Braff and Sarah Chalke, will remain with the show under a one-year contract.)

“We all had to get creatively inspired again,” Lawrence said. “And that meant going back to the show’s roots. Being more and more real and less cartoony and less silly. In our heads, this was our last hurrah!”

Then McPherson started talking about the future, one he had envisioned years ago when he pictured it as a comedy version of “ER” that could last years with rotating characters.

“I can shockingly see it happening because it seems very fresh and new right now,” Lawrence said.  “Regardless, this season feels like an end to the eight-season story we’re telling. If we were to go on, I would almost guarantee that it would be in a new and hopefully creatively exciting direction. If it’s not an embarrassment and there’s a chance to keep people working, I would do everything I could to make it something we could all be proud of.”

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

"Rules of Engagement" is no longer on the bubble. We hear the sophomore comedy got its pickup from CBS today. It remains to be seen when the show, about two couples and their single friend (David Spade), will be on the schedule.

The comedy is part of a quartet of shows -- including "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Unit" -- that got late reprieves this week.

-- Matea Gold

Walt Disney Co. is trying to get inside the minds of television viewers.

The Burbank-based entertainment company, with its profitable ESPN and ABC networks, said Tuesday that it was developing an "emerging media and advertising research lab"  to try to figure out why people watch the shows they do.

ABC made the announcement as part of its presentation to advertisers in New York City to kick off the industry's springtime television sales season. ESPN entertained advertisers this morning, and ABC is scheduled to unveil its fall schedule this afternoon.

The new research center will be based in Austin, Texas, and will test a variety of advertising practices to discern how receptive consumers are to products that are integrated into shows, whether people pay attention to split screens and how they watch programs on small mobile devices.  Disney did not say when the center would open.

The effort is part of a company-wide campaign to bring its advertising sales strategy into the 21st century because behavioral research about consumers is becoming increasingly available with the transition to digital television. Now, television networks have second-by-second viewing data available, through Nielsen Media Research, TiVo and cable television operators, which should help them analyze viewers' TV consumption choices.

Mike Shaw, ABC's advertising sales president, separately said that his team has developed a new metrics tool that he called the "advertising value index" that he said should help corporate advertisers figure out what shows have the greatest appeal to their targeted consumers.

"We want to take a deeper dive into the audience itself," Shaw told reporters at an early morning news conference at the ABC offices on Manhattan's Upper West Side. "We think this is kind of a step forward and I think the market will embrace it."

A few days ago, the CBS comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine," starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was thought to be a bubble show on the bad side of the bubble. But it has in fact been ordered for a third season.

The network, which will unveil its schedule Wednesday in New York City during this upfronts week, has ordered 22 more episodes of the comedy. It  reportedly has not yet decided on a time period for the show.

-- Kate Aurthur

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: CBS sticks with 'Rules of Engagement'

"Rules of Engagement" is no longer on the bubble. We hear the sophomore comedy got its pickup from CBS today. It remains to be seen when the show, about two couples and their single friend (David Spade), will be on the schedule.

The comedy is part of a quartet of shows -- including "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Unit" -- that got late reprieves this week.

-- Matea Gold

Walt Disney Co. is trying to get inside the minds of television viewers.

The Burbank-based entertainment company, with its profitable ESPN and ABC networks, said Tuesday that it was developing an "emerging media and advertising research lab"  to try to figure out why people watch the shows they do.

ABC made the announcement as part of its presentation to advertisers in New York City to kick off the industry's springtime television sales season. ESPN entertained advertisers this morning, and ABC is scheduled to unveil its fall schedule this afternoon.

The new research center will be based in Austin, Texas, and will test a variety of advertising practices to discern how receptive consumers are to products that are integrated into shows, whether people pay attention to split screens and how they watch programs on small mobile devices.  Disney did not say when the center would open.

The effort is part of a company-wide campaign to bring its advertising sales strategy into the 21st century because behavioral research about consumers is becoming increasingly available with the transition to digital television. Now, television networks have second-by-second viewing data available, through Nielsen Media Research, TiVo and cable television operators, which should help them analyze viewers' TV consumption choices.

Mike Shaw, ABC's advertising sales president, separately said that his team has developed a new metrics tool that he called the "advertising value index" that he said should help corporate advertisers figure out what shows have the greatest appeal to their targeted consumers.

"We want to take a deeper dive into the audience itself," Shaw told reporters at an early morning news conference at the ABC offices on Manhattan's Upper West Side. "We think this is kind of a step forward and I think the market will embrace it."

A few days ago, the CBS comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine," starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was thought to be a bubble show on the bad side of the bubble. But it has in fact been ordered for a third season.

The network, which will unveil its schedule Wednesday in New York City during this upfronts week, has ordered 22 more episodes of the comedy. It  reportedly has not yet decided on a time period for the show.

-- Kate Aurthur

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfront: Walt Disney Co. tries to go beyond Nielsen ratings

Walt Disney Co. is trying to get inside the minds of television viewers.

The Burbank-based entertainment company, with its profitable ESPN and ABC networks, said Tuesday that it was developing an "emerging media and advertising research lab"  to try to figure out why people watch the shows they do.

ABC made the announcement as part of its presentation to advertisers in New York City to kick off the industry's springtime television sales season. ESPN entertained advertisers this morning, and ABC is scheduled to unveil its fall schedule this afternoon.

The new research center will be based in Austin, Texas, and will test a variety of advertising practices to discern how receptive consumers are to products that are integrated into shows, whether people pay attention to split screens and how they watch programs on small mobile devices.  Disney did not say when the center would open.

The effort is part of a company-wide campaign to bring its advertising sales strategy into the 21st century because behavioral research about consumers is becoming increasingly available with the transition to digital television. Now, television networks have second-by-second viewing data available, through Nielsen Media Research, TiVo and cable television operators, which should help them analyze viewers' TV consumption choices.

Mike Shaw, ABC's advertising sales president, separately said that his team has developed a new metrics tool that he called the "advertising value index" that he said should help corporate advertisers figure out what shows have the greatest appeal to their targeted consumers.

"We want to take a deeper dive into the audience itself," Shaw told reporters at an early morning news conference at the ABC offices on Manhattan's Upper West Side. "We think this is kind of a step forward and I think the market will embrace it."

A few days ago, the CBS comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine," starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was thought to be a bubble show on the bad side of the bubble. But it has in fact been ordered for a third season.

The network, which will unveil its schedule Wednesday in New York City during this upfronts week, has ordered 22 more episodes of the comedy. It  reportedly has not yet decided on a time period for the show.

-- Kate Aurthur

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: 'Old Christine' has been renewed

A few days ago, the CBS comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine," starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, was thought to be a bubble show on the bad side of the bubble. But it has in fact been ordered for a third season.

The network, which will unveil its schedule Wednesday in New York City during this upfronts week, has ordered 22 more episodes of the comedy. It  reportedly has not yet decided on a time period for the show.

-- Kate Aurthur

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: ABC's new fall lineup

At this morning's ABC news conference, most of the news of the fall pickups ("Opportunity Knocks," "Life on Mars"), cancellations ("Men in Trees" and lots more) and renewals (all their hit shows, plus "Boston Legal" and "Eli Stone") had already come out. And it was a badly kept secret, if the word even applies, that "Scrubs" would be moving to ABC from NBC next season.

But the network's president, Steve McPherson, offered a few new bits of information. For example, he said the network would be reshooting parts of the pilot for "Life on Mars," the remake of the BBC series about a detective who finds himself back in 1973 after he's run over by a car. (In the American version, it's 1972 for some reason.) He said there will be some casting changes, but not Jason O'Mara, the lead, who guest-starred recently on "Grey's Anatomy" as a patient with a deadly brain tumor. The new show will air on Thursday nights at 10 p.m. in the post-"Grey's" time slot.

McPherson also said that because David E. Kelley, the executive producer of "Life on Mars," will be writing nearly every one of the 13 episodes of the final season of "Boston Legal," he won't be concentrating much on "Life on Mars" yet. Which led a reporter to ask: This is the final season of "Boston Legal" for sure? Yes, it will be, McPherson answered.

Another reporter asked McPherson about "Ugly Betty's" move to New York, and McPherson said he was "excited from a production standpoint" that a show that takes place in New York could shoot in New York. He reiterated what has already been reported -- that New York City had made ABC Studios a great offer to move the production there.

When asked about the cancellation of the much-loved "Men in Trees," McPherson said "we just couldn't get traction on that show" (but did not mention the many time-slot changes and long hiatuses it was subject to). He said that the network is still in business with series creator Jenny Bicks, whom he called "one of the great female voices."

ABC's fall schedule is below, with new shows in bold.

MONDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars”
9:30 p.m.     “Samantha Who?”
10:00 p.m.  “Boston Legal”

TUESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Opportunity Knocks”   
9:00 p.m.     “Dancing with the Stars" (results show)
10:00 p.m.  “Eli Stone”

WEDNESDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Pushing Daisies”      
9:00 p.m.     “Private Practice”
10:00 p.m.  “Dirty Sexy Money”

THURSDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Ugly Betty”
9:00 p.m.     “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m.  “Life on Mars”

FRIDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Wife Swap”
9:00 p.m.     “Supernanny”
10:00 p.m.  “20/20”

SATURDAY:   
8:00 p.m.     “Saturday Night College Football”

SUNDAY:   
7:00 p.m.     “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m.     “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
9:00 p.m.     “Desperate Housewives”
10:00 p.m.    “Brothers & Sisters”

-- Kate Aurthur

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: CW dances with the devil again

The CW is giving its soul to the devil in mid-season.

"Reaper" has been renewed for 13 episodes and will air sometime after January.

The drama that revolves around a 21-year-old video game slacker whose parents sold his soul to the devil was received enthusiastically by critics when it premiered last year. It then lost its way creatively, but recently has picked itself up, along with more viewers.

Bret Harrison, Tyler Labine and Rick Gonzales star.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: NBC Universal offers up an 'Experience' like no other

NEW YORK--The most-heard remark among the ad buyers, television producers and network executives about this evening’s NBC Universal Experience: “Well, it’s … an experience.”

It was hard to know what to make of the 440 booming television screens, pulsating electronic tickers and 7-foot-high consoles featuring life-size videos of your favorite NBC Universal talent that filled the telescoping set of halls. Part carnival, part trade show, the Experience was NBCU’s official offering for upfront week, but it didn’t resemble the traditional programming presentation one bit.

There were no executives droning on about cross-platform opportunities. There were no clips of new fall shows.

Instead, everywhere, there was media: flashing, blinking, humming media.

“I hope you all enjoyed your walk through the multimedia video and light arcade,” Conan O’Brien told the crowd during the cocktail party that capped off the evening. “Or as we like to call it here at NBC, the epilepsy hut.”

What, you didn’t get an invite? Dear reader, we won’t let you miss out. Sit back and let us take you on a journey -- shall we say, an Experience?

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: CBS renews Britney Spears-enhanced 'How I Met Your Mother' and 'The Unit'

My, what a difference a little Britney makes.

A couple of months ago, word on the street -- well, on the sound stages -- was that CBS viewers would probably never get to finish the "How I Met Your Mother" story unless, of course, Fox picked the series up, which was part of the rumor. The youngest-skewing show on CBS has never broken out, the thinking goes, because it's on the wrong network.

Enter: Britney Spears. Tonight she appears in the single-camera comedy for the second time. Her first visit gave the show its highest ratings ever and more buzz than Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) could ever muster, no matter how legendary he is. (And believe us, he is.)

Well, CBS has come to its senses and renewed the series for next fall. It also picked up "The Unit," which stars Dennis Haysbert and is run by Shawn Ryan ("The Shield").

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: Jimmy Fallon talks about replacing Conan O'Brien

So, Jimmy Fallon, now that you've been named as Conan O'Brien's successor on NBC's "Late Night," do you plan on taking any advice from the current host?

"I'm going to dye my hair red and get lifts in my shoes," Fallon told reporters today during a news conference on the top floor of 30 Rockefeller Center, which offered panoramic views of rain-drenched Manhattan (visible after an interminable wait for the elevators). 

The comedian's impish humor was on full display throughout the hour, but he assured the media that he's taking his new gig very seriously.

"I really plan to give my all to it," Fallon said, adding that his wife left him a note this morning that said, "Nice knowing you."

NBC officials lavished praise on Fallon, calling him a "hand-picked talent" and an "incomparable host."

"I think he's just built for it," said executive producer Lorne Michaels. "He's really funny and he's smart, and he has a really, really good work ethic. You can't do this kind of show if there is any confusion about what you really want to be doing. You have to what this more than everything else, and he does."

Executives would not say exactly when Fallon would take over the show except that it would be in the first six months of 2009. The timing is predicated on when O'Brien will be shifting to "The Tonight Show," which he's inheriting from Jay Leno, who is reportedly regretting his decision to leave the program.

A reporter today suggested that NBC had the timing figured out but was just unwilling to share it.

At that, Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment, leaped from his seat.  "We have no idea," he assured the reporter.

The selection of Fallon, who is perhaps best known for the outrageous characters he played on "Saturday Night Live," surprised some in the industry. But apparently the comedian was fated to be a late-night host from a young age: He told reporters that in kindergarten he was named "most likely to take over for David Letterman."

Fallon said he doesn't plan to change the format of "Late Night" except, he joked, "all the furniture will be suspended 6 feet in the air."

"I just have to make my own show," he added. "I think it happens over time."

He sidestepped questions about the length of his contract or salary, saying that he has the same deal as "Today" weatherman Willard Scott: "150 years."

-- Matea Gold

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: The names of the dead, Part 4

As the news rolls along with pickups, we also must pause to reflect upon those that have fallen.

In our fourth installment, we have learned that CBS' "Shark" and "Moonlight" are going gently into that good night. The James Woods vehicle "Shark" had run for two seasons; "Moonlight," a vampire drama troubled from the beginning, made it through just a single strike-shortened one.

We also had forgotten -- plain old forgotten -- to add "Jericho" to the list earlier. We are sorry, "Jericho" junkies!

We will add to this list as the news comes in.

Here's what we know so far, by network.

ABC
"Oprah's Big Give"
"Miss Guided"
"Women's Murder Club"
"Cavemen"
"Big Shots"
"Carpoolers"
"Men in Trees"
"Cashmere Mafia"
"October Road"

Fox
"Back to You"
"Canterbury's Law"
"New Amsterdam"
"The Return of Jezebel James"

NBC
"Las Vegas"
"Journeyman"
"Bionic Woman"

CBS
"Shark"
"Moonlight"
"Jericho"
"Cane"
"Welcome to the Captain"

CW
"Aliens in America"
"Girlfriends"

-- Maria Elena Fernandez and Kate Aurthur

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: Fox picks up a ... pilot?

This is Upfronts week. The networks are supposed to be ordering series. But there goes Fox picking up a new pilot.

"Inseparable," created by Shaun Cassidy ("Invasion"), centers on an investigator with a Jeckyl and Hyde-type personality.

Wonder if we'll ever actually see it.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: ABC says yes to 'Life on Mars'

ABC has ordered 13 episodes of "Life on Mars," the BBC series about a 21st century detective who is mysteriously transported to the 1970s. The lead is Jason O'Mara.

Created by David E. Kelley, who also owns the rights, the pickup was part of Kelley's negotiations to keep his dramedy "Boston Legal" on the air.

The cast of "Life On Mars" includes Lenny Clarke, Rachelle Lefevre and Colm Meaney.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: ABC renews 'Eli Stone'

Greg Berlanti's production company will keep its ABC trifecta on the air. The network has renewed "Eli Stone" for next season.

Berlanti also produces "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Brothers & Sisters" for ABC.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: CBS picks up rom-com 'Worst Week'

Slow down, CBS, we can't keep up!

The network has ordered the comedy "Worst Week" for its fall lineup. Created by Matt Tarses, the single-camera romantic comedy is based on a British show and centers on a couple's nightmarish week before their wedding.

Remember when "Jake in Progress" tried to do this? Hopefully this will work out better.

The cast includes Kyle Bornheimer, Erinn Hayes,  Nancy Lenehan, Jay Malone and Kurtwood Smith.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: CBS is back in business with Turteltaub

Jon Turteltaub has landed a new CBS series, "Harper's Island," about a group of friends who meet on an island off Seattle for a destination wedding.

It's described as a murder mystery. We wonder if Turteltaub, who is also directing the series, will have the wedding guests throw peanuts, just in case the drama starts on shaky ground. Turteltaub's last venture was "Jericho."

It is produced by CBS Paramount.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: CBS gets rolling with more pickups

It's been a busy morning at CBS.

The network has picked up two more dramas and one comedy.

Simon Baker, last seen on the short-lived CBS drama "Smith," returns to CBS in a starring role in "The Mentalist." The series centers on a man with psychic abilities who works as an independent contractor for the police.

Created by Bruno Heller of "Rome," the pilot was directed by David Nutter, who has an uncanny ability to pick projects to direct that go to series. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

As expected, "Elemental," by Jerry Bruckheimer Films & Television, also was ordered to series. Formerly titled "Eleventh Hour," the British miniseries adaptation is about a professor who works as an advisor to a government scientific agency. It stars Rufus Sewell and is produced by Warner Bros. Television.

CBS also has picked up "Project Gary," a comedy created by Ed Yeager of "Reba." The series
revolves around a recently divorced father coming to terms with his kids, ex-wife and new dating life. (Sounds like a good companion to "The New Adventures of Old Christine -- hint, hint).

--Maria Elena Fernandez

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: CBS picks up 'The Ex List' drama

CBS has just entered the drama race.

The network has picked up "The Ex List," a drama based on an Israeli show about a woman who tracks down all of her ex-boyfriends after a psychic tells her that she has already met the man she is going to marry. Created by Jonathan Levin ("Charmed"), the show is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. The cast includes Rachel Boston, Alexandra Breckenridge,  Elizabeth Reaser, Adam Rothenberg and Amir Talai.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: CW picks up 'Filthy Rich' drama by 'Everwood's' Rina Mimoun

Move over "Gossip Girl." You're getting some company.

The CW has picked up "Surviving the Filthy Rich," a drama adaptation of the Zoey Dean novel "How to Teach Filthy Rich Girls." The story centers on a Yale graduate who has moved to Manhattan, but nothing is going as planned. When her job at a tabloid magazine turns sour, she accepts a position working for infamous teenage twins who are filthy rich, and unmarketable, as far as their grandmother and upper-echelon colleges are concerned. Her challenge? Get them into an A-list university. Her reward? Ample pay, plus a significant check that will wipe out her hefty college loans.

Created by Rina Mimoun, executive producer of "Everwood," the series seems like an obvious companion for Serena and the gang.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

ABC: More Ashton Kutcher reality with 'Opportunity Knocks'

Oops, we need to correct ourselves.

It seems we're having trouble keeping up with the flood of Ashton Kutcher news coming out of the TV networks these last few days.

The reality series that Kutcher's company, Katalyst Films, is co-producing with Tyra Banks for ABC remains untitled. That's the one that is a beauty pageant with a twist.

"Opportunity Knocks" is another ABC reality series in which people at home respond to a knock on the door and have a chance to win money and prizes for answering questions correctly.

Both will be on the ABC lineup in the next TV season.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: Telemundo announces fall lineup

NBC's sister Spanish network, Telemundo, has announced its roster for the fall, including several hot telenovela offerings:

Based on Gustavo Bolivar’s bestselling novel of the same name and inspired by true-life events, “Sin Tetas No Hay Paraíso” (Without Breasts There Is No Paradise) is a story about an innocent young woman who makes the wrong choices. Forced to undergo surgery to escape from the misery that oppresses her, she meets an unscrupulous man who puts her life in jeopardy.

“¿Por Qué Diablos?” (Why the Devil … ?) is a story of intrigue, betrayal, vengeance and unbridled passion, in which love is the only key to survival. The streetwise Bruno never had anything given to him, so life became a game in which he was determined to be a winner. For Santiago, power is everything … yet the only thing he can’t control is the woman he’s about to marry, the stunning Barbara. She is a lawyer with a heart who is willing to fight for justice –- even if it means defending Bruno, the man whom Santiago wants to destroy and the man who, unbeknown to either, is Santiago’s own son.

“Amor de Madre” (A Mother’s Love) is the heart-wrenching story of a mother whose twin daughters are separated at birth. She is determined to give the one child she was able to keep every possible opportunity for happiness -– including the only man she ever really loved.  A strange twist of fate will intertwine the lives of mother and daughters in an extraordinary manner, revealing what a mother is willing to endure for her children.

“Lola Calamidades” (Calamity Lola) is the story of enchanted love, where passion is the only cure for a run of bad luck. In a place ruled by superstition, no one would trust Lola. No one –- except for the one man who truly loves her.  For years, Lola has been convinced that she brings misfortune to those who come near her and has shied away from every living human being. One day, her hiding place is discovered and Lola is brought back into the community. But a series of strange occurrences inevitably leads to tragedy.  Heartbroken and fearing for her life at the hands of the superstitious villagers, Lola believes she has lost all hope until the love of one man and the generosity of another turn her life around. 

In “El Juramento” (Secret Lies), Santiago De Landeros, a noble, hard-working businessman, is shocked by the violent suicide of his brother Diego. When he discovers that Diego’s dreams were shattered by the betrayal of a heartless woman, he seeks only one thing: to avenge his brother’s death. A gold chain with the letter “A” is his only clue, and he discovers that there are only two like it in the world. Blinded by his lust for revenge, Santiago visits the place where his brother once lived and, along the way, falls hopelessly in love with the beautiful young Andrea. The few clues he has all lead him to believe that the woman who betrayed his brother may be the same woman he’s fallen in love with. When the lines are blurred between love and hate, deception can forge a dangerous path.

Telemundo also announced it has signed an agreement with TV Globo to co-produce the hit novela “El Clon” (The Clone) for the U.S. market in Spanish. The agreement is the beginning of a new partnership between the two leading global content providers. The novela will be produced by Telemundo Studios in Colombia and TV Globo will provide the original format, as well as the expertise of the creative and production team that participated in the original novela, including screenwriter Glória Perez and director Jayme Monjardim. “El Clon” was aired by Telemundo in 2002 and was a huge international success, selling in more than 90 countries. Under the agreement, Telemundo will have exclusive broadcast rights for the U.S. and Puerto Rico, and both companies will market the new production through their international sales teams around the world.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: NBC joins the fray

NBC doesn't want to stay left out.

Even though the network broke from the pack and announced its schedule last month, and it's forgoing its ritzy presentation today at Radio City Music Hall, it has picked up a reality series to premiere after the Olympics.

From Ryan Seacrest Productions comes "Momma's Boy." This reality series puts mommies and their grown sons in a house with several "brides to be." Mommy will help pick the blushing bride.

The network also picked up an unscripted Howie Mandel comedy series, "Howie Do It," two weeks after its lineup was announced.

Onward to the "Universal Experience."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

'Brothers & Sisters': A onetime brother and sister find romance

The Season 2 finale of “Brothers & Sisters” added another layer of meaning to the show’s title: Two characters in the ABC drama recently thought to be brother and sister shared a romantic kiss in Sunday night’s episode.

A DNA test had revealed in previous weeks that they — Justin (Dave Annable) and Rebecca (Emily VanCamp) — were not biologically related. But by then, they had grown close as siblings: Rebecca was brought into the Walker family when they thought she was their long-lost sister, the product of an affair between their late father and Rebecca’s mother.

As the story line has unfolded in recent episodes — first with hints and flirtation, then with confessions — fan reaction has been divided between yay and ick.

“I don’t want people to feel that we’re not sensitive to the issue of incest,” said Alison Schapker, the executive producer who runs “Brothers & Sisters” with Monica Owusu-Breen.

“We look at this story as two people falling in love,” Breen said. “And they aren’t related. Our minds are wrapped around that, so we’re looking at this as a love story?” she added in up-speak. “With complications.”

Perhaps surprisingly, given that part of last season and much of this one involved integrating Rebecca into the Walker clan, Schapker said that the romance had been in the works for “an awfully long time,” and the writers “actually have a big plan for Justin and Rebecca that involves the series as a whole.”

Still, jokes are inevitable. “We do reference ‘Flowers in the Attic’ from time to time,” Breen said, citing the famously and bizarrely pro-incest V.C. Andrews Gothic novel.

The Rebecca-Justin coupledom will roll out in Season 3 in the fall, and Breen and Schapker said the writers would be mindful of the audience as it does. “As far as some of the more strident criticism of it, my hope is that we’re having a big old Walker fight with our fans,” Schapker said, referencing the messy-but-loving fictional family at the center of “Brothers & Sisters.” She laughed, sounding slightly nervous. “Just the way this family can get into some knock-down-drag-outs and yet come back together, I’m hoping we tell the story in such a way that everybody can get on board with it. That’s kind of my fantasy.”

-- Kate Aurthur

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: The Return of 90210

It's happening! It's REALLY happening!

The CW has confirmed that the spin-off of "Beverly Hills, 90210" will be on its fall lineup. As if there was ever a question, but we're excited anyway.

The contemporary version of the 1990s FOX hit will focus on a family that reflects today's celebrity culture: a grandmother (Jessica Walter) who was a huge star in the 1970s and now likes to hit the bottle a bit; her son, who is the new Beverly Hills high school principal, and his ex-Olympic athlete of a wife (Lori Loughlin) who are both thirtysomething; and their two teenagers. The daughter (Shenae Grimes) is -- what else? -- an aspiring actress. The son is a brainiac with behavioral issues.

But it wouldn't be possible to have a spin-off without a visit from the ghosts of West Beverly High past. Jennie Garth will be reprising her role as Kelly Taylor. Only this time, she's a guidance counselor at her alma mater. The role is recurring.

The rest of the cast includes Ryan Eggold, AnnaLynne McCord, Dustin Milligan, Michael Steger, Jessica Stroup and Tristan Wilds.

Asked what the title of the show will be, a CW spokesman said: "90210." We'll take it!

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: ABC renews 'Boston Legal'

The love affair between Alan Shore and Denny Crane, also known as James Spader and William Shatner, will live on.

ABC has renewed "Boston Legal" for next fall -- provided that executive producer David E. Kelley can close the deal with the actors.

The series, starring Spader and Shatner, who have won five Emmys between them for their portrayal of the morally ambiguous best friends, was thought to be in trouble because it was becoming too expensive for ABC.

But, apparently, Kelley drives a hard bargain. Let's see what happens with Kelley's ABC pilot, "Life on Mars."

--Maria Elena Fernandez

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: CBS gives Ashton a try

To think it all started with "Punk'd" and  "Beauty & The Geek." Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films is producing another alternative series, this one for CBS. "Game Show In My Head" is a hidden camera show in which contestants wear an earpiece as they go about their lives, and they are instructed by an in-studio host to do stunts. The crazier the task, the more money they can win.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: CW and Tyra team up again

Tyra Banks and Ken K. Mok, the masterminds behind the "America's Next Top Model" franchise, are teaming up on another CW reality series. "Stylista" will follow contestants working as assistants to Elle magazine fashion news director Anne Slowey. Think "The Fashionista Diaries" meets "The Apprentice." The grand prize includes a paid editorial position at Elle.

This is Banks' second reality venture for the upcoming season. We previously informed you of the ABC reality series she is co-producing with Ashton Kutcher's Katalyst Films, which centers on a beauty pageant--with a twist. That series has now been titled "Opportunity Knocks."

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo courtesy The CW)

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: Fox stays married to 'Til Death'

More comedy news from the Fox network:

"Til Death," the sitcom starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a middle-aged couple, has been renewed for next fall.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: Fox goes animated (again)

We knew that Fox was the No. 1 network, but is it the only network? We find it odd that only Fox is picking up new shows and the big week is only two days away. It seems like President of Entertainment Kevin Reilly woke up on the funny side of the bed this morning because here are two more comedy pickups for his network. Or maybe it's because the Kelsey Grammar-Patricia Heaton "Back To You" sitcom has been canceled.

Both new programs are animated:

First up is "The Cleveland Show," the buzzed-about "Family Guy" spin-off centered on Peter Griffith's accident-prone neighbor, Cleveland Brown.

The second program is  "Sit Down, Shut Up," which is based on an Australian format about a group of mediocre high school teachers who work in a small Northeastern fishing town. The cast includes: Will Arnett, Maria Bamford, Jason Bateman, Will Forte, Tom Kenny, Regina King, Nick Kroll, Cheri Oteri and Henry Winkler. It is a 20th Century Fox Television and Sony Pictures Television co-production.

--Maria Elena Fernandez

(Photo Jason Bateman and Will Arnett courtesy of WireImage)

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez

Upfronts: Fox picks up 'The Inn'

And we're off!

Fox goes last on Upfronts week, but it  was first out of the gate with an official new show pickup.

As part of its presentation to advertisers on Thursday, Fox will announce a new comedy being added to the lineup. "The Inn" is about a boutique New York City hotel where everything seems to be running smoothly in the lobby. But behind the scenes there's a struggle for power between the manager, who runs the hotel like a gentlemen's club, and the human resources manager, who is always trying to keep the inn from getting sued.

The cast includes Brando Eaton, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Niecy Nash, Jerry O'Connell, Jolene Purdy and Molly Stanton. The series is created by Abraham Higginbotham ("Back to You," "Will & Grace," "Arrested Development") and is produced by 20th Century Fox Television.

-- Maria Elena Fernandez