And so we enter year seven of the reality TV era-the original Survivor debuted way back in 2000-with elimination-style shows remaining popular, some might say, beyond all logic. “I honestly never thought The Biggest Loser would last as long as it has, but there it is,” says Jaimie Hubbard, editor-in-chief of TVguide.ca. “Dancing with the Stars: D-list talent coupled with some great dancers? Who would have ever thought that could possibly be a success?”
But while low-cost reality and game shows continue to take up large parts of prime-time schedules, TV fans could get no less than 10 new scripted shows between January and March: three dramas and a remarkable seven comedies.
The comedy Hubbard is most looking forward to is Little Mosque on the Prairie, a CBC show about Muslims in small-town Saskatchewan, scheduled to debut Jan. 9. “It’s getting a lot of buzz, and everyone is totally fascinated by the concept.”
After pushing back its originally scheduled fall release, ABC will launch Knights of Prosperity, a series about a group of misfits that sets out to rob Mick Jagger. “It’s not slap on your knee, roll in the aisle, but it is kind of charming,” says Hubbard. Other new comedies to watch include: In Case of Emergency (starring David Arquette and Jonathan Silverman), Andy Barker, PI (staring former Conan O’Brien sidekick Andy Richter), Notes From the Underbelly (about a couple having a baby), The Singles Table (a group of people meet at a wedding), and The Winner (with Daily Show correspondent Rob Corddry).
In terms of drama, look for The Black Donnellys. The series is based on the story of the infamous family from 19th century London Ont., but set in modern day New York. Paul Haggis, the Canadian Oscar-winning writer/director of Crash, is the executive producer.
Looking ahead to the fall, it’s hard to say what new stuff we’ll be watching. About 160 pilots are shot every year and only 30 of those make it to air. From the ’06 crop, the show everyone is wondering about is Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip. “I think it has gotten better and better,” says Hubbard. “NBC had to make a choice between Smith and Studio 60…, and Smith bit the dust.” Now NBC wants the show to succeed and is committed to finding an audience.
Among the other new dramas this year, at least two seem to be developing a following large enough to be back in the fall. Men in Trees has been getting better numbers since it was moved to Thursday night, and strong casting in Brothers and Sisters could be enough to earn it a return in the fall. As for comedy, 30 Rock may survive, if only on the strength of Alec Baldwin’s performance. “My guess is that it will probably be back next year,” says Hubbard.
