Coming Soon: BEAVER FALLS, E4

E4 have a brand new comedy-drama on the way, which they're hoping will replicate the success of The Inbetweeners. Beaver Falls is the story of three British friends—Flynn (Coronation Street's Samuel Robertson), A-Rab (Four Lions' Arsher Ali) and Barry (Lark Rise To Candleford's John Dagleish)—who graduate from university and decide to travel to the US for a carefree holiday working for an elite summer camp called Beaver Falls, full of beautiful and rich Californian teenagers.

It's certainly a premise that sounds fun on paper. I just hope the writing and performances are as sharp as The Inbetweeners, because a British teen-comedy set in the US (probably involving an Anglo-American culture clash) is definitely something that appeals to me—despite the fact I'm now in my early-30s!

To celebrate the show's premiere, there's also a competition to win the Ultimate USA trip for a total of three people, who will flown out to the US with £1500 spending money and seats on a RoadTrip American tour from San Francisco to New York City. To be in with a chance of winning, just head over to Beaver Falls' Facebook site and collect "badges" by playing games on the show's official app. Each of the potential 24 badges to win equal an entry into the competition, where the winner will be chosen at random. Hurry, because the contest closes on 27 July. A full list of Terms & Conditions can be read on the E4 site.

A mock promotion for the Beaver Falls summer camp can be seen below:

Beaver Falls will premiere on E4 sometime in July.

This is a sponsored post.

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Coming Soon: SIRENS (Channel 4)

Channel 4 have a brand new comedy-drama on the way called Sirens. It stars Kayvan Novak (Fonejacker), Rhys Thomas (Bellamy's People) and Richard Madden (Game Of Thrones) as world-weary paramedics Rachid, Stuart and Ashley, who go about their day encountering humanity at its stupidest. Amy Beth Hayes (Misfits) co-stars as Sgt Maxine Fox.

Interestingly, Sirens was inspired by the book Blood, Sweat & Tea by real-life paramedic Tom Reynolds. This formed the basis of the idea for writers Brian Fillis (The Curse of Steptoe, An Englishman In New York) and Tony Basgallop (Being Human).

Hal Vovel, executive-producer:

"[Producer] David Aukin and I had always talked about producing a satire to do with the health service. Then I heard this acerbic, misanthropic character on the radio reading excerpts from his blog about life as an ambulance driver in London and thought it might offer a really original way in. Tom Reynolds, the author of the blog, has a very wry, irreverent tone and his anecdotes about life on the front line are the kind of material you just can't make up."

"We wanted to make an anti-procedural show; bold, funny, moving, insightful. Our take was to use the medical aspect as a backdrop against which to follow the lives, loves and misadventures of our three heroes as they grapple with much more serious issues—like how to get laid in the middle of the day after a tough shift, or who out of the three is actually the Alpha Male in the gang, or having an existential crisis after finding a suicide—universal themes that aren't specific to ambulance drivers but are actually finally about things that concern us all; sex, power, fear of death. The aim was to make a darkly comic show about the human condition from the point of view of three utterly original, funny, loveable paramedics—confronted with a view of humanity as seen from the gutter."

"We met the writer Brian Fillis after seeing Fear Of Fanny. Brian had spent ten years working as a school teacher so understands life in the public sector. This, coupled with his unique take on the world, gave us a sense that he might find a really original way in. We gave him the blog and he just ran with it. What was important to us was that it should be comedy coming out of real observation, real comedy and real drama undercutting each other; making it laugh out loud one minute and moving the next."

A few videos can be seen below:

Must Be Something I Ate:

Behind the Scenes:

Sirens begins its six-part run on Channel 4/HD, Monday 27 June @10PM.

This is a sponsored post.

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The CW Previews: 'Ringer' & 'Secret Circle'

There are only two shows from The CW I'm potentially interested in this year, which they previewed at their Upfronts this week: Sarah Michelle Gellar's Ringer, about a woman on the run who assumes the life of her affluent twin sister (originally made for CBS, but they passed on it); and teen witch drama The Secret Circle, based on the novels by the author of The Vampire Diaries. As usual, synopses and previews below:

RINGER

Sarah Michelle Gellar stars as a woman who, after witnessing a murder, goes on the run, hiding out by assuming the life of her wealthy identical twin sister – only to learn that her sister's seemingly idyllic life is just as complicated and dangerous as the one she's trying to leave behind. Bridget is six months sober and starting to turn her life around when she is the sole witness to a professional hit. Despite the assurances of her FBI protector, Agent Victor Machado, Bridget knows her life is on the line. She flees to New York, telling no one, not even her Narcotics Anonymous sponsor, Malcolm. In New York, Bridget reunites with her estranged twin, Siobhan. Wealthy, pampered and married to the strikingly handsome Andrew Martin, Siobhan lives what appears to be a fairy tale life – a life where no one knows that Bridget exists. The sisters seem to be mending their frayed relationship, until Siobhan disappears mysteriously, and Bridget makes the split decision to take on her sister's identity. She discovers shocking secrets, not only about her sister and her marriage, but also about Siobhan's best friend, Gemma, and Gemma's husband, Henry. And when someone tries to kill Bridget in her sister's penthouse, she realizes she is no safer as Siobhan than she is as herself. The series stars Sarah Michelle Gellar as Bridget and Siobhan, Kristoffer Polaha as Henry, Ioan Gruffudd as Andrew Martin, Nestor Carbonell as Agent Victor Machado and Tara Summers as Gemma. RINGER is produced by CBS Television Studios and Warner Bros. Television in association with ABC Television Studios and Brillstein Entertainment with executive producers Pam Veasey ("CSI, NY," "The District"), Peter Traugott ("Samantha Who?") and Emmy Award-winner Richard Shepard ("Ugly Betty"). The pilot was directed by Richard Shepard.

THE SECRET CIRCLE

Cassie Blake was a happy, normal teenage girl - until her mother Amelia dies in what appears to be a tragic accidental fire. Orphaned and deeply saddened, Cassie moves in with her warm and loving grandmother Jane in the beautiful small town of Chance Harbor, Washington - the town her mother left so many years before - where the residents seem to know more about Cassie than she does about herself. As Cassie gets to know her high school classmates, including sweet-natured Diana and her handsome boyfriend Adam, brooding loner Nick, mean-girl Faye and her sidekick Melissa, strange and frightening things begin to happen. When her new friends explain that they are all descended from powerful witches, and they've been waiting for Cassie to join them and complete a new generation of the Secret Circle, Cassie refuses to believe them - until Adam shows her how to unlock her incredible magical powers. But it's not until Cassie discovers a message from her mother in an old leather-bound book of spells hidden in her mother's childhood bedroom, that she understands her true and dangerous destiny. What Cassie and the others don't yet know is that darker powers are at play, powers that might be linked to the adults in the town, including Diana's father and Faye's mother - and that Cassie's mother's death might not have been an accident. The series stars Britt Robertson as Cassie Blake, Thomas Dekker as Adam Conant, Gale Harold as Charles Meade, Phoebe Tonkin as Fay Chamberlain, Jessica Parker Kennedy as Melissa, Shelley Hennig as Diana Meade, Louis Hunter as Nick, Ashley Crow as Jane Blake and Natasha Henstridge as Dawn Chamberlain. Based upon the book series by L.J. Smith (author of "The Vampire Diaries" book series), THE SECRET CIRCLE is from Outerbanks Entertainment and Alloy Entertainment in association with Warner Bros. Television and CBS Television Studios with executive producers Kevin Williamson ("The Vampire Diaries," "Scream," "Dawson's Creek"), Andrew Miller ("Imaginary Bitches"), Leslie Morgenstein ("The Vampire Diaries," "Gossip Girl") and Gina Girolamo. Elizabeth Craft ("The Vampire Diaries," "Lie to Me") & Sarah Fain ("The Vampire Diaries," "Lie to Me") were executive producers on the pilot which was directed by Liz Friedlander ("The Vampire Diaries," "90210").

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CBS Previews: 'A Gifted Man', 'Person Of Interest' & 'Unforgettable'

Here are my picks of the best CBS shows the network previewed at their Upfronts presentation: supernatural medical drama A Gifted Man, about a doctor haunted by the ghost of his ex-wife; action-drama Person Of Interest, where Jim Caviezel and Michael Emerson stop violent crimes before they happen; and a cop show starring Poppy Montgomery as a detective with unmatched memory skills called... um... oh, Unforgettable. Take a look at the official synopses and preview clips below, and let me know what you think!

A GIFTED MAN

A GIFTED MAN is a drama about a brilliant, charismatic surgeon whose life changes forever when his deceased ex-wife begins teaching him the meaning of life from the "hereafter." Michael Holt (Patrick Wilson) is an exceptional doctor who lives a materialistic life of luxury thanks to his work-obsessed career and powerful and wealthy patients; however, Michael's ordered world is rocked when his ex-wife, Anna (Jennifer Ehle), an idealistic free-clinic doctor and the love of his life, mysteriously appears to him. Michael's off-beat sister, Christina (Julie Benz), a single mom to her teenaged son, Milo (Liam Aiken), is thrilled that Anna's back in her brother's life, even as an "illusion," because Michael was always a better person with her. Curious about Michael's sudden change in behavior is his efficient assistant, Rita (Margo Martindale). When Anna asks Michael to go to her clinic to help keep it running, he meets Autumn (Afton Williamson), a volunteer carrying on Anna's work with the underprivileged. Touched by those in need and accepting of Anna's compassionate "presence," Michael's attitude toward serving the rich and poor is turned upside down, and he begins to see that there's room in his life for everyone. Academy Award nominee Susannah Grant ("Erin Brockovich"), Academy Award winner Jonathan Demme ("The Silence of the Lambs"), Sarah Timberman, Carl Beverly and Neal Baer ("ER") are executive producers for CBS Television Studios.

PERSON OF INTEREST

PERSON OF INTEREST stars Jim Caviezel, Emmy Award winner Michael Emerson and Academy Award nominee Taraji P. Henson in a crime thriller about a presumed dead former-CIA agent who teams up with a mysterious billionaire to prevent violent crimes by using their own brand of vigilante justice. Reese's (Caviezel) special training in covert operations appeals to Finch (Emerson), a software genius who invented a program that uses pattern recognition to identify people about to be involved in violent crimes. Using state-of-the-art surveillance technology, the two work outside of the law using Reese's adept skills and Finch's unlimited wealth to unravel the mystery of the person of interest and stop the crime before it happens. Reese's actions catch the attention of the NYPD, including homicide detective Carter (Henson), and Fusco (Kevin Chapman), a cop who Reese uses to his advantage. With infinite crimes to investigate, Reese and Finch find that the right person, with the right information, at the right time, can change everything. Emmy Award winners J.J. Abrams and Bryan Burk ("Lost"), Academy Award nominee Jonathan Nolan ("Memento"), David Semel ("Heroes") and Greg Plageman ("Cold Case") are the executive producers for Warner Bros. Television.

UNFORGETTABLE

UNFORGETTABLE stars Poppy Montgomery as Carrie Wells, an enigmatic former police detective with a rare condition that makes her memory so flawless that every place, every conversation, every moment of joy and every heartbreak is forever embedded in her mind. It's not just that she doesn't forget anything - she can't; except for one thing: the details that would help solve her sister's long-ago murder. Carrie has tried to put her past behind her, but she's unexpectedly reunited with her ex-boyfriend and partner, NYPD Detective Al Burns (Dylan Walsh), when she consults on a homicide case. His squad includes Det. Mike Costello (Michael Gaston), Al's right-hand man; Detective Roe Saunders (Kevin Rankin), the junior member of the team; and Detective Nina Inara (Daya Vaidya), a sassy, street-smart cop. Being back on the job after a break feels surprisingly right for Carrie. Despite her conflicted feelings for Al, she decides to permanently join his unit as a detective solving homicides - most notably, the unsolved murder of her sister. All she needs to do is remember. Ed Redlich, John Bellucci, Sarah Timberman and Carl Beverly are executive producers for Sony Television Studios in association with CBS Television Studios.

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ABC Previews: 'Charlie's Angels', 'Once Upon A Time', 'Pan Am' & 'The River'

ABC held their Upfronts presentations today, so here are some more previews and synopses of their brand new shows I'm interested in: the Charlie's Angels remake, fairy tale drama Once Upon A Time, '60s jet set drama Pan Am, and horror drama The River.

CHARLIE'S ANGELS

Everyone deserves a second chance -- even a thief, a street racer and a cop who got in a little too deep. After all, the three women who solve cases for their elusive boss, Charlie Townsend, are no saints. They're angels... Charlie's Angels.

Set in Miami, this fun, glamorous, action-packed take on the 1970s smash hit series introduces us to three new angels, all fearless detectives, head-turning beauties and close friends. There's Abby (Rachael Taylor), a Park Avenue princess who became a world-class thief. Then there's Kate (Annie Ilonzeh), a Miami cop who fell from grace, losing both her career and her fiancé. Finally there's Gloria, a disgraced army lieutenant who has a way with explosives. When one of the angels' missions ends in Gloria's tragic death, Charlie persuades them to partner with Gloria's childhood friend, Eve (Minka Kelly), a street racer with a mysterious past. They may not know each other yet, but one thing's for sure -- Abby, Kate and Eve will always have each others' backs.

"Charlie's Angels" stars Annie Ilonzeh ("General Hospital") as Kate Prince, Minka Kelly ("Parenthood," "Friday Night Lights") as Eve, Rachael Taylor ("Grey's Anatomy") as Abby Sampson and Ramon Rodriguez ("The Wire," "Daybreak") as Bosley.
Written and executive-produced by Alfred Gough & Miles Millar ("Smallville"), "Charlie's Angels" is also executive-produced by Drew Barrymore ("Charlie's Angels" movies), Leonard Goldberg (the original "Charlie's Angels") and Nancy Juvonen ("Charlie's Angels" movies). It's directed and executive-produced by Marcos Siega ("Vampire Diaries," "Dexter"). "Charlie's Angels" is produced by Millar/Gough Ink, Flower Films and Panda Productions in association with Sony Pictures Television.

ONCE UPON A TIME

From the inventive minds of "Lost" executive producers Adam Horowitz and Edward Kitsis comes a bold new imagining of the world, where fairy tales and the modern-day are about to collide.

And they all lived happily ever after – or so everyone was led to believe. Emma Swan knows how to take care of herself. She's a 28-year-old bail bonds collector who's been on her own ever since she was abandoned as a baby. But when the son she gave up years ago finds her, everything starts to change. Henry is now 10 years old and in desperate need of Emma's help. He believes that Emma actually comes from an alternate world and is Snow White and Prince Charming's missing daughter. According to his book of fairytales, they sent her away to protect her from the Evil Queen's curse, which trapped the fairytale world forever, frozen in time, and brought them into our modern world. Of course Emma doesn't believe a word, but when she brings Henry back to Storybrooke, she finds herself drawn to this unusual boy and his strange New England town. Concerned for Henry, she decides to stay for a while, but she soon suspects that Storybrooke is more than it seems. It's a place where magic has been forgotten, but is still powerfully close… where fairytale characters are alive, even though they don't remember who they once were. The epic battle for the future of all worlds is beginning, but for good to win, Emma will have to accept her destiny and fight like hell.

"Once Upon a Time" stars Ginnifer Goodwin ("Big Love") as Snow White/Sister Mary Margaret, Jennifer Morrison ("House MD") as Emma Swan, Robert Carlyle ("The Full Monty," "Trainspotting," "SGU Stargate Universe") as Rumplestiltskin/Mr. Gold, Lana Parrilla as Evil Queen/Regina, Jamie Dornan as Sheriff Graham, Jared Gilmore ("Mad Men") as Henry, Josh Dallas as Prince Charming/John Doe and Raphael Sbarge as Jiminy Cricket/Archie.

"Once Upon a Time" was written by Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz, who are also executive producers, along with Steve Pearlman (ABC's "V"). The pilot is directed and executive-produced by Mark Mylod ("Entourage"). "Once Upon a Time" is from ABC Studios.

PAN AM

Passion, jealousy and espionage... They do it all – and they do it at 30,000 feet. The style of the 1960s, the energy and excitement of the Jet Age and a drama full of sexy entanglements deliciously mesh in this thrilling and highly-original new series.

In this modern world, air travel represents the height of luxury and Pan Am is the biggest name in the business. The planes are glamorous, the pilots are rock stars and the stewardesses are the most desirable women in the world. Not only are these flyboys and girls young and good looking, but to represent Pan Am they also have to be educated, cultured and refined. They're trained to handle everything from in-air emergencies to unwanted advances – all without rumpling their pristine uniforms or mussing their hair. There's Dean (Jonah Lotan) – a cocky, charismatic and ambitious new pilot – the first of a new breed not trained in the war. On the sly against company policy, he's dating Bridget, a stunning beauty with a mysterious past. A rebellious bohemian, Maggie (Christina Ricci) turns into a buttoned up professional for work so she can see the world. Rounding out the crew are flirtatious Collette (Karine Vanasse), the adventurous Kate (Kelli Garner) and, finally, Laura (Margot Robbie) – Kate's beauty queen younger sister, a runaway bride, who recently fled a life of domestic boredom to take to the skies.

"Pan Am" stars Christina Ricci ("Penelope") as Maggie, Kelli Garner ("Going the Distance") as Kate, Karine Vanasse ("Polytechnique") as Colette, Margot Robbie ("Neighbours") as Laura, Jonah Lotan ("24") as Dean and Michael Mosley ("Justified") as Ted. Jack Orman ("ER," "Men of a Certain Age,"), Tommy Schlamme ("The West Wing," "Parenthood,", "Mr. Sunshine") and Nancy Hult Ganis ("Akleeh and the Bee") are the executive producers of "Pan Am." Orman is also the writer, with Schlamme directing. "Pan Am" is produced by Jack Orman Productions, Out of the Blue Entertainment and Shoe Money Productions in association with Sony Pictures Television.

THE RIVER

"The River" follows the story of wildlife expert and TV personality Emmet Cole. Emmet set course around the world with his wife, Tess, and son, Lincoln, while filming what would become one of the most popular shows in television. After he goes missing deep in the Amazon, his family, friends and crew set out on a mysterious and deadly journey to find him.

Famed explorer Dr. Emmet Cole (Bruce Greenwood) went looking for magic deep in the uncharted Amazon and never returned. The shocking truth about his disappearance is out there, somewhere, just waiting to be discovered. To the millions of kids who grew up watching his nature show, Dr. Cole was a hero. To his own son, Lincoln (Joe Anderson), he was more of an enigma. Now, six months after he vanished, Lincoln is finally ready to bury the past when Dr. Cole's emergency beacon suddenly goes off. At the urging of his mother, Tess (Leslie Hope), Lincoln reluctantly joins her on a search for his father. To fund the rescue, they agree to let Dr. Cole's cagey ex-producer, Clark (Paul Blackthorne), film the mission documentary-style. The mixed crew of old friends and new acquaintances includes the sexy and resourceful Lena (Eloise Mumford), loyal mechanic Emilio (Daniel Zacapa) and lethal bodyguard Captain Kurt Brynildson (Thomas Kretschmann).

"The River" stars Bruce Greenwood ("Star Trek") as Emmet Cole, Joe Anderson ("The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Parts 1 and 2") as Lincoln Cole, Paul Blackthorne ("Lipstick Jungle") as Clark, Paulina Gaitan as Jahel, Leslie Hope ("24") as Tess Cole, Eloise Mumford ("Lone Star") as Lena, Shaun Parkes ("The Mummy Returns") as Adjay, Thomas Kretschmann ("King Kong") as Captain Kurt Brynildson and Daniel Zacapa ("Resurrection Blvd.") as Emilio.

"The River," from Amblin's Steven Spielberg, Daryl Frank and Justin Falvey, showrunner/executive producer Michael Green ("Heroes," "Kings"), is also executive-produced by Oren Peli (creator of "Paranormal Activity"), Zack Estrin, Jason Blum and Steven Schneider. Teleplay by Michael R. Perry and Michael Green, story by Oren Peli & Michael R. Perry and Michael Green. The pilot is directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and produced by ABC Studios.

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Fox Previews: 'Alcatraz', 'Terra Nova' & 'Touch'

Fox had their Upfronts yesterday, revealing their new shows for 2011/12 to the press and marketing people. Of particular interest to me are their three sci-fi dramas: JJ Abrams' latest mystery Alcatraz, Steven Spielberg-produced dinosaur adventure Terra Nova, and Heroes creator Tim Kring's supernatural drama Touch with Kiefer Sutherland. The official synopses and a few previews can be seen below:

ALCATRAZ

From executive producer J.J. Abrams (FRINGE, "Lost," "Star Trek" and the upcoming "Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol" and "Super 8") and writer and executive producer Elizabeth Sarnoff ("Lost," "Deadwood") comes ALCATRAZ, the chilling new thriller centered on America's most infamous prison and one-time home to the nation's most notorious murderers, rapists, kidnappers, thieves and arsonists. When San Francisco Police Department DET. REBECCA MADSEN (Sarah Jones, "Sons of Anarchy") is assigned to a grisly homicide case, a fingerprint leads her to a shocking suspect: JACK SYLVANE (guest star Jeffrey Pierce, "The Nine"), a former Alcatraz inmate who died decades ago. Given her family history – both her grandfather and surrogate uncle, RAY ARCHER (Robert Forster, "Jackie Brown"), were guards at the prison – Madsen's interest is immediately piqued, and once the enigmatic, knows-everything-but-tells-nothing government agent EMERSON HAUSER (Sam Neill, "Jurassic Park") tries to impede her investigation, she's doggedly committed. Madsen turns to Alcatraz expert and comic book enthusiast, DR. DIEGO "DOC" SOTO (Jorge Garcia, "Lost"), to piece together the inexplicable sequence of events. The twosome discovers that Sylvane is not only alive, but he's loose on the streets of San Francisco, leaving bodies in his wake. And strangely, he hasn't aged a day since he was in Alcatraz, when the prison was ruled by the iron-fisted WARDEN EDWIN JAMES (Jonny Coyne, "Undercovers") and the merciless ASSOCIATE WARDEN E.B. TILLER (Jason Butler Harner, "The Changeling"). Madsen and Soto reluctantly team with Agent Hauser and his technician, LUCY BANERJEE (Parminder Nagra, "ER"), to stop Sylvane's vengeful killing spree. By delving into Alcatraz history, government cover-ups and Rebecca's own heritage, the team will ultimately discover that Sylvane is only a small part of a much larger, more sinister present-day threat. For while he may be the first, it quickly becomes clear that Sylvane won't be the last prisoner to reappear from Alcatraz. Through the course of the investigation, Madsen and Soto will learn that Agent Hauser has known about the prison's secret history and has been awaiting the prisoners' return. Soto will witness his life's work – the history of Alcatraz – come alive. Madsen will be forced to keep her supportive San Francisco cop fiancé, JIMMY DICKENS (Santiago Cabrera, "Heroes"), at arm's length from the highly classified assignment as she sees everything she thought she knew about her family's past shattered, all while fighting to keep the country safe from history's most dangerous criminals.

TERRA NOVA

From executive producers Steven Spielberg ("Saving Private Ryan," "Jurassic Park"), Peter Chernin, René Echevarria ("Castle," "The 4400") and Brannon Braga ("24") comes an epic family adventure 85 million years in the making. TERRA NOVA follows an ordinary family on an incredible journey back in time to prehistoric Earth as a small part of a daring experiment to save the human race. In the year 2149, the world is dying. The planet is overdeveloped and overcrowded, with the majority of plant and animal life extinct. The future of mankind is in jeopardy, and its only hope for survival is in the distant past. When scientists at the FERMI Particle Accelerator unexpectedly discovered a fracture in time that made it possible to construct a portal into primeval history, the bold notion was born to resettle humanity in the past – a second chance to rebuild civilization and get it right this time. The series centers on the Shannon family as they join the Tenth Pilgrimage of settlers to Terra Nova, the first colony established in this beautiful yet foreboding land. JIM SHANNON (Jason O'Mara, "Life on Mars"), a devoted father with a checkered past, guides his family through this new world of limitless beauty, mystery and terror. Jim's wife, ELISABETH (Shelley Conn, "Mistresses"), is a trauma surgeon and the newest addition to Terra Nova's medical team. JOSH (Landon Liboiron, "Degrassi: The Next Generation") is their 17-year-old son who is angry to leave life as he knows it behind; upon arriving at the settlement, he finds himself instantly drawn to the beautiful and rule-breaking SKYE (Allison Miller, "Kings"). MADDY (Naomi Scott, "Life Bites"), Josh's endearingly awkward 15-year-old sister, hopes Terra Nova will give her a chance to reinvent herself. Although Elisabeth's medical training secured the family a spot on the pilgrimage, a secret involving their five-year-old daughter, ZOE (newcomer Alana Mansour), soon endangers their place in this utopia. Upon the Shannons' arrival, they are introduced to COMMANDER NATHANIEL TAYLOR (Stephen Lang, "Avatar"), the charismatic and heroic first pioneer and leader of the settlement. Taylor warns the travelers that while Terra Nova is a place of new opportunities and fresh beginnings, all is not as idyllic as it initially appears. Along with blue skies, towering waterfalls and lush vegetation, the surrounding terrain is teeming with danger – and not just of the man-eating dinosaur variety. There is also a splinter colony of renegades led by the battle-hardened MIRA (Christine Adams, "TRON: Legacy"), who is vehemently opposed to Taylor and his leadership. Even more threatening than what lies outside the protective walls of the colony is the chilling possibility that something sinister is happening inside Terra Nova. The Shannons will come to suspect that not everyone on this mission has the same idea of how to best save mankind; in fact, there may be forces intent on destroying this new world before it even begins.

TOUCH

From writer/creator Tim Kring ("Heroes," "Crossing Jordan") and executive producers Peter Chernin and Katherine Pope comes TOUCH, a preternatural drama in which science and spirituality intersect with the hopeful premise that we are all interconnected, tied in invisible ways to those whose lives we are destined to alter and impact. Through masterful storytelling, the series follows a group of seemingly unrelated characters – beginning with a former firefighter tormented by his inability to save a dying woman, an Iraqi teenager who will go to great risks to help his family, a gifted singer whose actions at a karaoke bar save lives thousands of miles away and a British businessman desperately trying to retrieve a key piece of information from his lost mobile phone – who affect each other in ways seen and unseen. At the center is MARTIN BOHM (Kiefer Sutherland, "24"), a widower and single father, haunted by an inability to connect to his mute, severely autistic 10-year-old son, JAKE. Caring, intelligent and thoughtful, Martin has tried everything to reach his son who shows little emotion and never allows himself to be touched by anyone, including Martin. Jake busies himself with cast-off cell phones, disassembling them and manipulating the parts, allowing him to see the world in his own special way. After multiple failed attempts at keeping Jake in school, Martin is visited by social worker CLEA HOPKINS, who insists on doing an evaluation of the Bohms' living situation. Although new at her job, Clea sees a man whose life has become dominated by a child he can no longer control. She believes his attempts to communicate with Jake are just wish fulfillment, and determines that it's time for the state to intervene. But everything changes when Martin discovers that Jake possesses a gift of staggering genius – the ability to see things that no one else can, the patterns that connect everything. Jake is indeed communicating after all. But it's not with words, it's with numbers. And now he needs Martin to decipher their meaning and connect these numbers to the cast of seemingly unrelated characters whose lives they affect. Along the way, Martin will be guided by BORIS PODOLSKY, a discredited aging professor who offers Martin a compelling but unorthodox theory about Jake and his rare ability. Whether it be chance, coincidence, timing, synergy or fate, there are events that touch us all, as part of an interconnected, dazzlingly precise universe.

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NBC Previews: 'Awake', 'Grimm', 'Prime Suspect', 'The Playboy Club' & 'Smash'

NBC's The Playboy Club, starring Amber Heard (left)

NBC have released some sneak peeks of a few brand new shows they've commissioned for the 2011/12 season, if you care to take a look below. Do any of these take your fancy?

AWAKE

"Awake" is an intriguing drama about a detective (Jason Issacs, "Harry Potter," "Brotherhood") who finds he is leading an arduous double life that defies reality. When Detective Michael Britten (Issacs) regains consciousness following his family's car accident, he is told that his wife Hannah (Laura Allen, "Terriers") perished but that his teen son, Rex (Dylan Minnette, "Saving Grace"), has survived. As he tries to put the pieces of his life back together, he awakens again in a parallel reality in which his wife is very much alive -- but his son Rex died in the accident. In order to keep both of his loved ones alive at one time, he begins living two dueling realities in parallel worlds, which churns up confusion -- in one moment, Michael and his wife debate about having another child to replace their son, while in the other reality, he is attracted to his son's tennis coach, Tara (Michaela McManus, "The Vampire Diaries"), to fill the void from the loss of his wife. Trying to regain some normalcy, Michael returns to police work and solves crimes in both worlds with the help of two different partners -- Detective Isaiah "Bird" Freeman (Steve Harris, "The Practice") and Detective Efrem Vega (Wilmer Valderrama, "That '70s Show"). Also starring are Emmy Award winner Cherry Jones ("24") and BD Wong (NBC's "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit") as therapists in each respective world. The series is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. Kyle Killen ("Lone Star") and Howard Gordon ("24") are executive producers. David Slade ("Twilight: Eclipse," "30 Days of Night") also serves as executive producer and directed the pilot written by Killen.

GRIMM

"Grimm" is a new drama series inspired by the classic Grimm's Fairy Tales. Remember the fairy tales your parents used to tell you before bedtime? Those weren't stories -- they were warnings. Nick Burkhardt (David Guintoli "Turn The Beat Around") thought he prepared himself for the realities of working as a homicide detective until he started seeing things he couldn't quite explain. When his ailing Aunt Marie (guest star Kate Burton, "Grey's Anatomy") arrives, Nick's life turns upside down when she reveals they are descendants of an elite group of hunters, also known as "Grimms," who fight to keep the balance of humanity safe from the supernatural creatures of the world. As Nick digs deeper into her past, he realizes that he will have to shoulder the responsibility of his ancestors -- and contend with a larger-than-life mythology of the Brothers Grimm that is now all too real. Russell Hornsby ("Lincoln Heights"), Bitsie Tulloch ("Quarterlife"), Silas Weir Mitchell ("Prison Break"), Reggie Lee ("Persons Unknown") and Sasha Roiz ("Caprica") also star. "Grimm" is a production of Universal Media Studios and Hazy Mills Productions. Sean Hayes and Todd Milliner ("Hot in Cleveland") serve as executive producers, Jim Kouf ("National Treasure," "Angel") and David Greenwalt ("Buffy the Vampire Slayer," "Angel") are the creators/executive producers and Marc Buckland ("My Name Is Earl") is the director.

PRIME SUSPECT

Based on the critically acclaimed British television series of the same name, "Prime Suspect" has been redeveloped for American audiences by writer Alexandra Cunningham ("Desperate Housewives," "NYPD Blue"), director Peter Berg (NBC's "Friday Night Lights") -- and stars Maria Bello ("A History of Violence") as tough-as-nails Detective Jane Timoney. Timoney finds that being a homicide detective in New York City is tough enough and having to contend with a male-dominated police department to get respect makes it that much tougher. She's an outsider who has just transferred to a new precinct dominated by an impenetrable clique of a boys' club. Timoney has her own vices too -- with a questionable past -- and she tends to be forceful, rude and reckless. But she's also a brilliant cop who keeps her eye on one thing: the prime suspect. Also starring are Aidan Quinn ("Unknown"), Brian O'Byrne ("Flash Forward"), Tim Griffin ("Star Trek"), Kirk Acevedo ("Fringe"), Joe Nieves ("How I Met Your Mother"), Damon Gupton ("The Last Airbender") and Peter Gerety ("Blue Bloods"). "Prime Suspect" is produced by Universal Media Studios, ITV and Film 44. Cunningham is the executive producer/writer along with executive producer/director Berg and executive producers Sarah Aubrey, Julie Meldal-Johnson, Paul Buccieri and Lynda LaPlante.

THE PLAYBOY CLUB

From Academy Award-winning executive producer Brian Grazer, "The Playboy Club" is a provocative new drama about a time and place that challenged the social mores, where a visionary entrepreneur created an empire and an icon changed American culture. It's the early '60s, and the legendary Playboy Club in Chicago is the door to all of your fantasies -- and the key is the most sought-after status symbol of its kind. Inside the seductive world of the bunny, the epitome of beauty and service, the clientele rubs shoulders with the decade's biggest mobsters, politicos and entertainers. Nick Dalton (Eddie Cibrian, "CSI: Miami") is one of the city's top attorneys and the ultimate playboy, rubbing elbows with everyone in the city's power structure. With mysterious ties to the mob, Nick comes to the aid of Maureen (Amber Heard, "Zombieland"), the stunning and innocent new bunny who accidentally kills the leader of the Bianchi crime family. Dating Nick is Carol-Lynne (Laura Benanti, "Take the Lead"), a bombshell and established star at the club who knows her days as a bunny are numbered and finds herself continually at odds with Billy (David Krumholtz, "Numb3rs"), the club's general manager. Adding to the charm of the Playboy club is Janie (Jenna Dewan Tatum, "American Virgin"), the carefree life of the party who is dating Max (Wes Ramsey, "CSI: Miami"), an overly protective bartender. Also starring are Naturi Naughton ("Fame") and Leah Renee ("True Confessions of a Hollywood Starlet"). In addition to Grazer ("A Beautiful Mind," "American Gangster"), the executive producers on "The Playboy Club" include Chad Hodge ("Tru Calling"), Francie Calfo ("Scoundrels"), Jason Burns ("The House Bunny") and Dick Rosenzweig ("Kendra"). Hodge also wrote the pilot, which was directed by Alan Taylor ("Mad Men," "The Sopranos"). The series is produced by 20th Century Fox Television and Imagine Television.

SMASH

"Smash" is a musical drama that celebrates the beauty and heartbreak of the Broadway theater as it follows a cross-section of dreamers and schemers who all have one common desire -- to be a "Smash." The series centers on a desire to create a Broadway musical based on the life of Marilyn Monroe -- written by the successful songwriting duo of Tom (Tony Award nominee Christian Borle, "Legally Blonde: The Musical") and Julia (Emmy Award winner Debra Messing, "Will & Grace"). Julia recently began the process of adopting a child with her husband of many years, but her focus is torn when she has the opportunity to write another Broadway hit. A rivalry soon forms for the lead role between a youthful, inexperienced Midwestern beauty (Katharine McPhee, "American Idol") -- who is trying to find fame in the big city against all odds -- and stage veteran (Megan Hilty, "9 to 5: The Musical"), who's determined to leave the chorus line and finally get her big break. A tenacious producer Eileen (Oscar winner, Anjelica Huston, "Prizzi's Honor") discovers the "Marilyn" project and jumps on board with a brilliant director (Jack Davenport, "Pirates of the Caribbean" films) -- whose talent is matched by his cunning and egocentric amorality. The series stemmed from an idea of executive producer and multiple Emmy and Oscar winner Steven Spielberg ("ER," "Schindler's List"). The pilot was written by acclaimed playwright/screenwriter Theresa Rebeck ("Mauritius," "NYPD Blue"). Craig Zadan and Neil Meron (Oscar-winning "Chicago," "Hairspray") and Darryl Frank and Justin Falvey ("United States of Tara," "The Borgias") will also serve as executive producers. Original songs are written by Tony and Grammy Award winners Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman ("Hairspray," "Catch Me If You Can"), who also serve as executive producers. "Smash" is a production of Universal Media Studios in association with DreamWorks. The pilot was directed by Tony Award winner Michael Mayer ("Spring Awakening," "American Idiot").

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Coming Soon: 'Campus', Channel 4

Do you remember Campus? The comedy pilot produced for Channel 4's Comedy Showcase season way back in November 2009? If so, you may also recall that it was selected to be given a full series, and now it's finally about to broadcast! I reviewed the original pilot here, and quite enjoyed it, despite some reservations about its semi-improvised style (inspired by Green Wing, which shares many of the same writers) and its abrasive, bonkers tone.

If you're unaware, Campus focuses on the everyday events at the struggling Kirke University, with its staff of eccentric teachers -- such as the tyrannical Vice Chancellor Jonty de Wolfe (Andy Nyman) and womanizing English literature professor Matt Beer (Joseph Millson.) You can watch a three-minute clip below:

Campus begins its six-part run on Channel 4, 5 April @10pm. Will you be tuning in?

Sponsored post.

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20 TV Pilots We Want To See [Obsessed With Film]

I have a special weekend feature published at Obsessed With Film, called 20 TV PILOTS WE WANT TO SEE. The concept is very simple: I've chosen 20 US television pilots currently in-development that, for whatever reason, I'm very keen to see. Many have exciting concepts and great writers/actors attached to them; a few just look like disasters-in-waiting. But I genuinely want to see them all.

As usual, if you have time, please leave a comment at OWF, or here if it's easier. What do you think of my picks? Did I forget to include any pilots you're looking forward to?

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TV Picks: 14-20 February 2011 ('Brit Awards', 'Gadget Show', 'Grammy Awards', 'Let's Dance For Comic Relief', 'OK! TV', 'South Riding', 'Treme', etc.)

VALENTINE'S DAY

Coach Trip (Channel 4, 5.30pm) Series 6 of the travel-based reality gameshow.
OK! TV (Channel 5, 6.25pm) Brand new weekday magazine show. Presented by Kate Walsh & Matt Johnson.
The Gadget Show (Channel 5, 8pm) Return of the technology-based magazine show. Presented by Suzi Perry, Jason Bradbury, Jon Bentley, Ortis Deley & Pollyanna Woodward.
Steven Segal v Justin Lee Collins (Channel 5, 9pm) Documentary where the vociferous comedian meets taciturn action movie star Steven Segal.
The World's Worst Place To Be Gay (BBC3, 9pm) Radio 1 DJ Scott Mills travels to Uganda to see how the country treats its homosexual population.
For Crying Out Loud (BBC4, 9pm) Documentary on weeping. Presented by Jo Brand.

TUESDAY 15th

The Brit Awards 2011 (ITV1, 8pm) Annual music awards show. Hosted by James Corden, with performances by Tinie Tempah, Arcade Fire, Rihanna, Plan B, Mumford & Sons, Adele & Take That.
The Big Truth About Low Fat Foods (BBC3, 9pm) Documentary where presenter Zoe Salmon tries to survive on foods low in sugar and fat.
The Richard Dimbleby Lecture (BBC1, 10.35pm) Michael Morpurgo speaks on children's rights issues.
Nuns Aloud (BBC1, 11.20pm) Documentary about two record execs travelling the world to find singing nuns.

WEDNESDAY 16th

Starlight: For The Children (Channel 5, 7.30pm) Documentary to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the charity that brightens the lives of terminally ill children.
The Elephant: Life After Death (Channel 4, 9pm) Documentary about the decomposition of an elephant.
The Grammy Awards 2011 (ITV2, 10pm) Annual music awards show.

THURSDAY 17th

The Spice Trail (BBC2, 9pm) Kate Humble follows in the footsteps of 15th-century spice traders.

FRIDAY 18th

Treme (Sky Atlantic, 10.15pm) Season 1 of the US drama about a New Orleans community trying to rebuild their lives after Hurricane Katrina. Stars Wendell Pierce, Steve Zahn, John Goodman, Clarke Peters, Melissa Leo, Kim Dickens, Rob Brown & Khandi Alexander.

SATURDAY 19th

Let's Dance For Comic Relief (BBC1, 7pm) Return of the charity special, where celebrities recreate classic dances from stage and screen. This first episode features performances from model Katie Price, interior designers Colin and Justin, comedian Ed Byrne, actress Rebecca Front, the cast of Waterloo Road, and comedian Russell Kane. This week's judges are Graham Norton, Frank Skinner & Greg Davies. Music comes from JLS and Taio Cruz (featuring Kimberly Wyatt.) Presented by Alex Jones & Steve Jones.

SUNDAY 20th

Sheila Hancock Brushes Up: The Art Of Watercolours (BBC1, 6pm) Art history series on watercolour paintings. Presented by actress Sheila Hancock.
South Riding (BBC1, 9pm) Three-part drama where teacher Sarah Burton returns to her native Yorshire to become the headmistress of a struggling girls' school. Stars Anna Maxwell Martin, David Morrissey, Penelope Wilton, Peter Firth, Douglas Henshall, John Henshaw, Katherine McGolpin & Daniel West.

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Coming Soon: 'Being Human', series 3

The BBC Press Office have released details of Being Human, which returns to BBC3/HD very soon. There's nothing too unexpected in the release, although it clarifies a few things about the change of location from Bristol to Cardiff; such as how the housemates now reside in a kitsch B&B called Honolulu Heights.

Toby Whithouse, creator/writer:

A third series is a unique opportunity because it allows you to take all the best bits of series one and series two. What we took from series one is the domestic element and very strong stories of the week with very strong guest characters. Series two had much more of an epic sweep and a breadth of ambition. Series three has allowed us to combine all those things.

I know how important the show is to its fans and so I'm aware that I have a responsibility not to let them down. But I think that's good and quite enjoy the pressure and the challenge. They know the show almost better than I do and I relish the challenge of coming up with ideas that surprise them.

[One] concern was that moving from Bristol and losing the iconic pink house would be detrimental to the show but, actually, we found that it really reinvigorated it. It allowed us to kick off the series with a fresh start and with a renewed energy and provided us with heaps more material than we imagined. I've always said that Andrew [Purcell], our set designer, is a genius and every series we set him a huge new task and he never lets us down.

The attention to detail is absolutely amazing. I've been on set goodness knows how many times but every time I go back there I'll notice a new detail -- something new that he's popped in – it's absolutely awe-inspiring what he's done.

Series 3 will feature a host of recognizable faces, too: Lacey Turner (EastEnders) as a guide to purgatory, Robson Green (Wire In The Blood) as a werewolf, Michael Socha* (This Is England '86), Paul Kaye (Dennis Pennis) as Vincent the vampire, Craig Roberts (Young Dracula) as a vampire called Adam, Nicola Walker (Spooks) as social worker Wendy, James Fleet (The Vicar Of Dibley) as George's dad, and the return of Jason Watkins as vampire boss Herrick.

The writing lineup has also been revealed: Toby Whithouse (episodes 1, 7 & 8) Brian Dooley (2), Jamie Mathieson (3) John Jackson (4), Sarah Phelps (5) and Lisa McGee (6).

Are you looking forward to the return of Being Human, now the premiere's so close? Does anything about these teases get you especially excited? New vampires and werewolves? George's family? The rescue of Annie from "the other side"?

* Incidentally, Michael Socha's the brother of Misfits star Lauren Socha. Can you see the resemblance?

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Incoming TV: Winter/Spring 2011

I've embedded the BBC's preview of shows coming in 2010 above (which includes clips from Doctor Who and Outcasts), and below is a list of UK and US TV shows airing in winter/spring that have my attention. I've indicated the likelihood that I'll be reviewing them every week, but that's really just a gut instinct when it comes to brand new shows I haven't seen yet. Feel free to let me know about any shows you think I've missed here, or what you're excited about yourself.

Bedlam (Living/BBC America) Six-part horror about a mental asylum that's being converted into an apartment block, awakening nasty spirits. Stars former-X Factor winner Will Young. UK TX: 7 February US TX: TBA [LIKELY]

Being Human (BBC3) The third series of the supernatural comedy-drama will likely debut January, with a change of location from Bristol to Wales. There's also last year's cliffhanger to resolve, with ghost Annie having been whisked to the afterlife and requiring rescue from vampire Mitchell and werewolf George. Guest stars this year include Lacey Turner (EastEnders) and Robson Green. UK TX: TBA US TX: TBA [DEFINITE]

Being Human (USA) (Syfy) American remake of the aforementioned UK series, which should be very interesting from a British perspective. The premise should translate just fine, but will the original's balance of horror and comedy remain intact? And, more importantly, will the American actors have the same winning chemistry? This could potentially air at the same time as the BBC version's third series, which may get very confusing! US TX: 17 January UK TX: TBA [LIKELY]

Camelot (Starz) This is a 10-episode retelling of the Arthurian legend, with Jamie Campbell Bower as Arthur, Joseph Fiennes as Merlin and Eva Green as Morgan. It's airing on cable network Starz, so I'm expecting a gritty Spartacus-style take on the usual iconography. Is this the show that will render the BBC's Merlin inert? Or can the two shows co-exist? The showrunner is Chris Chibnall (Torchwood, Law & Order UK). US TX: (25 February preview) 1 April UK TX: TBA [LIKELY]

The Cape (NBC) From the promos, it looks like a farcical mash-up of '60s Batman, Darkman and Heroes. If it's intentionally silly and uproarious fun, that's good. If it's unintentionally silly and plain ridiculous, that's bad. It could go either way, although I'm still predicting camp tosh, but I'll give it a chance. US TX: 9 January UK TX: TBA [POSSIBLE]

The Chicago Code (Fox) Formerly known as Ride-Along, this is the new Chicago-based cop show drama from Shawn Ryan (The Shield), which has a particularly energetic and immersive trailer. Now, the cop show isn't a genre I'm especially drawn to, unless there's something unique about it (a sci-fi twist, a unique lead character, an unexpected tone), but I'll give this show a chance. Sky1 have the UK rights, so I may wait for them to air this. US TX: 7 February UK TX: TBA [UNLIKELY]

Doctor Who (BBC1) The sixth series of the sci-fi adventure is being split into two halves for 2011; episodes 1-7 to air in the spring, and 8-13 in the autumn. Treats to look forward to: a two-part premiere set in America, the return of River Song, an episode written by Neil Gaiman, and an apparently monumental mid-series cliffhanger. The BBC haven't set a return date for the rubber-faced Time Lord, but it's usually around Easter. UK TX: Spring US TX: Spring [DEFINITE]

Episodes (Showtime/BBC2) A US/UK co-production about a British couple (Stephen Mangan and Tamsin Greig) who travel to the States to get involved with the remake of their highly-regarded British sitcom, but soon realize the American adaptation is a Matt Le Blanc-starring disaster zone. Episodes will be airing the day after its US premiere, so I'll be following the BBC2 broadcast. US TX: 9 January UK TX: 10 January [POSSIBLE]

Game Of Thrones (HBO/Sky Atlantic) Medieval fantasy series based on the books by George R.R Martin. I know next to nothing about the books or, consequently, what this series will entail. But several people have claimed it's essentially a Lord Of The Rings-style epic without the magic. I'll definitely give it a fair crack of the whip, but who knows if I'll review more than the pilot. It could be this year's Pillars Of The Earth for me (a show I enjoy, but don't have enough enthusiasm to write about) Or maybe it'll have me itching to clatter away at my keyboard when the credits roll. We'll see. UK TX: 18 April US TX: 17 April [POSSIBLE]

Glee (E4) The second season of the musical "dramedy" finally gets underway in the UK. I wonder what the ratings will be like, knowing how popular this show is as a download. I've been reviewing Glee at US-pace this season, so my archive can be explored. UK TX: 10 January

The Good Wife (More4) The second season of this legal drama gets its UK premiere. This show was one of my favourites last year, even if I didn't review it, so I'm quietly excited by its return. Julianna Margulies is just fantastic as Alicia Florrick, with tremendous support from the other actors, and a great balance of serialized family drama with legal-case-of-the-week plots. UK TX: 6 January. [UNLIKELY]

The Hour (BBC2) Six-part drama set in 1956 about the launch of a British news programme, from Abi Morgan. Stars Romola Garai, Dominic West & Ben Whishaw. I'm mainly interested in this because the buzz surrounding The Hour is that it's "the UK's version of Mad Men." If it's half as good, I'll be happy. UK TX: TBA. [POSSIBLE]

Justified (FX) I watched the first season last summer when it aired on FiveUSA here in the UK, and found it to be a pleasant experience. It's perhaps the best example of how to balance episodic storytelling with a serialized mytharc, and I've always enjoyed Timothy Olyphant's performances. However, it's not the kind of show I'm naturally drawn to, as I tended to let batches of episodes stack up on my DVR before eventually getting around to them to fill random hours in my week. So, while I will very likely watch season 2 when it crosses the Atlantic, I won't be seeking it out before then, or reviewing it. It's one of those shows I like to watch as a time-filler, but doesn't inspire me to write about it. US TX: 9 February UK TX: TBA. [UNLIKELY]

The Killing (AMC) This is a brand new 13-part series from the cable network, based on the Danish miniseries Forbrydelson, about the investigation into a young girl's murder. Stars Mireille Enos, Joel Kinnaman, Michelle Forbes, Brent Sexton & Billy Campbell. While nothing about this premise sounds very unique, my interest stems from the fact it's the latest offering from AMC -- home of Mad Men, Breaking Bad and Rubicon. US TX: March UK TX: TBA [POSSIBLE]

Lights Out (FX) This is a new drama about a boxer on the comeback trail. Rocky Balboa for the smallscreen? Everyone loves a good underdog story, so this has potential, but can it sustain itself past a season? Holt McCallany (CSI Miami) plays the former heavyweight champ, trying to provide for his wife and three daughters in retirement. US TX: TBA UK TX: TBA [POSSIBLE]

Luck (HBO/Sky Atlantic) David Milch's horse racing drama, executive-produced by Michael Mann, starring Dustin Hoffman, Nick Nolte, Ian Hart and Michael Gambon. I have zero interest in horse racing, but that's a wonderful gathering of talent, so Luck has got my attention. US TX: January TBC UK TX: TBA [UNLIKELY]

Mildred Pierce (HBO/Sky Atlantic) Kate Winslett headlines this new miniseries, playing a single mother during the Great Depression. Co-stars Evan Rachel Wood, Guy Pearce, Melissa Leo, Hope Davis & Mare Winningham. I will very likely check out the first episode and decide if it's strong enough to review every week, but my gut says I'll probably admire from afar. US/UK: Spring [UNLIKELY]

No Ordinary Family (Watch) The US family superhero drama makes its UK debut. I've been reviewing at the US pace, so you'll have to check out my archive if you plan to follow along. UK TX: 11 January

Outcasts (BBC1/BBC America) After the cancellation of Survivors last year, here comes the BBC's high-concept replacement. The premise is something we've seen before (remember Earth2?), as a group of futuristic astronauts colonize an alien world called Carpathia. Very interested in this, are you? UK: 7 February US TX: Spring (TBC) [LIKELY]

Primeval (ITV1/BBC America) The fourth series of the monster action-adventure series will be reviewed. It'll be interesting to see what the response is here, as American fans will be seeing episodes on the same day. (Note: episode 2 debuts the very next day, 2 January) UK/US TX: 1 January [DEFINITE]

Rubicon (BBC4) I'm assuming AMC's thriller is going to premiere sometime in the spring, but nothing's official right now. I know next to nothing about the plot, but I've heard that the glacial pace is a struggle early on, but that things pickup after episode 4. It was unfortunately cancelled, and I've heard the finale is disappointing, but I'm still prepared to give this a whirl. UK TX: TBA. [POSSIBLE]

The Shadow Line (BBC2) Thriller about a group of diverse people drawn together after the murder of a drug varon by a mysterious puppetmaster. Stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Christopher Eccleston & Sir Antony Sher. This sounds dark and delicious, so I can't wait to taste it. UK/US TX: TBA [POSSIBLE]

Spartacus: Gods Of The Arena (Starz, Sky1) Having been won over by Spartacus: Blood & Sand last summer, I'll be reviewing this six-part prequel at the US pace for 2011. Expect political intrigue, double-crossing, violence, sex, full frontal nudity, beheadings, and blood... lots and lots of blood. US TX: 21 January UK TX: March[DEFINITE]

Touch (BBC3) This is a supernatural comedy from Jack Thorne (Skins, This Is England '86) about a boy called Paul who realizes he can see the dead; which comes in handy when the dead wage war on the living and Armageddon is threatened. UK TX: TBA. [LIKELY]

True Blood (FX) The disappointing third season of this vampire drama finally reaches British shores. You can read my archive of reviews here. UK TX: 14 January

V (ABC, Syfy) Season 2 has already been slashed from 12 episodes to 10, which isn't a great vote of confidence on ABC's part. Hopefully the sci-fi invasion show will hit its stride this year, bolstered by actors from the '80s original (Jane Badler, Marc Singer) to draw in veteran fans, with more action and a more confident tone. Well, that's what they say. US TX: 4 January UK TX: 24 March [POSSIBLE]

Zen (BBC1) Three-part crime mystery drama starring Rufus Sewell as Italian detective Aurelio Zen, based on the novels by Michael Dibdin. I've heard this is very similar to Wallander (in that it's English-language, but filmed abroad), and hopefully Sewell can be as mesmerizing as Kenneth Branagh was in his acclaimed series. UK TX: 2 January US TX: TBA. [POSSIBLE]

In order of confirmed release:

1 January
Primeval (S4, US/UK)

2 January
Zen (UK)

4 January
V (S2, US)

6 January
The Good Wife (S2, UK)

9 January
The Cape (S1, US)
Episodes (S1, US)

10 January
Episodes (S1, UK)
Glee (S2, UK)

11 January
No Ordinary Family (S1, UK)

14 January
True Blood (S3, UK)

17 January
Being Human USA (S1, US)

21 January
Spartacus: Gods Of The Arena (US)

7 February
The Chicago Code (S1, US)

9 February
Justified (S2, US)

1 April
Camelot (S1, US)

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BBC: Christmas 2010

I'm so glad the UK spend millions guaranteeing a jam-packed TV schedule for Christmas/New Year, featuring lots of specials and seasonal treats for audiences. From what I've heard, the US TV schedules are barren and desolate places, with all the big shows off-air for winter hiatus, which confuses me. What do those crazy Americans do till January? Talk to their families? Play games? Go outside? Crazy! No, but seriously, it seems weird. Or, rather, a missed opportunity.

Surely there's a captive American audience wanting to be entertained over the holidays, right? Is festive TV just not part of the culture overseas? I have memories of highlighting all the best shows in the Christmas edition of the Radio Times, as preparation for a Christmas half sat in front of the TV surrounded by toys, wrapping paper, wine, cake, chocolates and turkey sandwiches.

Anyway, here in the UK the BBC have released a list of what we can expect on their schedule this year:

Top Gear (a Three Wise Men inspired challenge to reach Bethlehem); sketch show The One Ronnie (where Ronnie Corbett's joined by stars like Rob Brydon, Elton John, Charlotte Church and James Corden); a Royle Family Christmas special "Joe's Crackers"; Ruth Jones's Christmas Cracker (with guest Ricky Gervais); Come Fly With Me (David Walliams and Matt Lucas's new airport-based sketch show); The Impressions Show Christmas Special; a festive edition of Shooting Stars; The Rob Brydon Show's Christmas special; drama The Nativity (starring Peter Capaldi); When Harvey Met Bob (a dramatization of the Live Aid concert's preparation); Eric & Ernie (a biopic on the early days of comedians Morecambe & Wise); a Miranda special; Helena Bonham Carter in the '60s drama Toast; an adaptation of Douglas Adams's novel Dirk Gently (starring Stephen Mangan); Doctor Who's Christmas special "A Christmas Carol" (guest-starring Michael Gambon and Katherine Jenkins); the premiere of the Upstairs, Downstairs revival; Rock And Chips: Five Gold Rings (a festive prequel to Only Fools & Horses); a new Just William adaptation; classic ghost story Whistle And I'll Come To You (starring John Hurt); The Hairy Bikers Mum Knows Best Christmas Special; Never Mind The Buzzcocks festive special; Mock The Week's Christmas special; and finales of The Apprentice and Strictly Come Dancing (which also has a Christmas special featuring new celebs).

You can read a more comprehensive list here.

What do you make of that lineup? A decent mix of specials and brand new shows? Is there anything you're particular excited about? Is anyone jealous the UK spend a fortune on Christmas TV, or is it much the same where you live?

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Coming Soon: 'Whitechapel' series 2

There's no reason for crime thriller Whitechapel to get a sequel, beyond the fact it was ITV's best-performing drama of 2009 and one that received good reviews and strong ratings. Considering it was about a serial-killer copying the exploits of Jack The Ripper in the titular London district, there didn't seem to be much chance of a second run. This was a one-off drama special, right..?

Well, no. ITV weren't prepared to let Whitechapel's success go unexploited, so it's back soon with another three-part story, this time focused on copycat murders based on the infamous Kray Twins, who operated around Whitechapel in the '60s.

Rupert Penry-Jones and Phil Davis are back as mismatched detectives Chandler and Miles, again joined by Steve Pemberton's Edward Buchan -- a Ripperlogist who assumedly knows a little something about the Krays, too. New characters include DCI Cazenove (comedian Peter Serafinowicz) and Craig Parkinson as both Jimmy and Johnny Kray. The series is once again written by Ben Court and Caroline Ip, directed by David Evans (Unforgiven, Survivors).

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ITV: Autumn/Winter 2010-11

ITV are next to reveal their list of autumn/winter programming for ITV1, ITV2, ITV3 and ITV4. Here's what caught my eye: two-part crime drama DCI Banks: Aftermath (starring Stephen Tompkinson), true-life drama U Be Dead (starring David Morrissey), series 2 of Whitechapel (now focusing on copycats of The Krays), series 3 of Law & Order UK, Midsomer Murders, Poirot, detective series Vera (starring Brenda Blethyn), medical drama Monroe (starring James Nesbitt), supernatural drama The Oaks, series 4 of Primeval, chat/entertainment show Paul O'Grady Live!, endurance gameshow 71 Degrees North, I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, comedy-drama Benidorm, Harry Hill's TV Burp, physical gameshow The Cube, comedy panel show Celebrity Juice, and breakfast show Daybreak (with Adrian Chiles and Christine Bleakley).

The full press release with further details can be read below:

This autumn, ITV1 launches a season of high quality drama, written by and starring, some of the UK’s biggest talents. Led by Downton Abbey, from Oscar-winning writer, Julian Fellowes, a spectacular autumn season of new drama series and one-off films includes Bouquet of Barbed Wire, DCI Banks, The Little House, and the return of Whitechapel

As ITV continues to overhaul and refresh its schedule, the autumn also marks the launch of the channel’s new breakfast programme, Daybreak, presented by new signings Adrian Chiles and Christine Bleakley.

The biggest entertainment show on television returned to ITV1 in August with a record breaking 12.6 million viewers tuning in for the first audition show from The X Factor 2010; which joins new shows such as Paul O’Grady Live and 71 Degrees North and returning entertainment hits including I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!, The Cube and Harry Hill’s TV Burp.

In Factual, Monte Carlo and Bust sits alongside a journey of a very different kind in David Suchet on the Orient Express. There is a stunning insight into the natural world in Ray Mears Field Guide to Britain; and ITV gains unique access to The Savoy. In sport, Adrian Chiles presents live coverage of England’s qualification campaign for Euro 2012 as well as live UEFA Champions League and The FA Cup.

ITV Director of Television, Peter Fincham said: “ITV1 has always been home to high quality drama, but as we work to refresh and update the mix of commissions in this incredibly important genre, I’m particularly delighted to be working with writers of the calibre of Julian Fellowes, Guy Andrews, Ben Court and Caroline Ip on such an exciting season of new series and event dramas.

"Downton Abbey and A Bouquet of Barbed Wire are just two particular highlights of a terrific autumn season, alongside some of the nation’s biggest entertainment shows, stunning factual series and, at the other end of the schedule, the exciting launch of our new breakfast programme, Daybreak – with Adrian Chiles and Christine Bleakley."

Drama

Downton Abbey, set in an Edwardian country house, portrays the lives of the Crawley family, who have been the earls of Grantham since 1772, and the servants who work for them.. Written and created by Oscar-winning writer, Julian Fellowes, the costume drama boasts an all-star cast including Dame Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern.

Bouquet of Barbed Wire is a modern reworking of Andrea Newman’s taboo-busting 1970s psychological drama which explores the consequences of a father’s obsessive love for his daughter and how secrets once buried in the past return to haunt their lives. Written by Guy Andrews, the drama stars Trevor Eve, Hermione Norris, Tom Riley, Imogen Poots and Mark Lewis Jones.

DCI Banks: Aftermath stars Stephen Tompkinson as Detective Chief Inspector Alan Banks, in a two part drama, adapted from the novel by award winning international crime writer, Peter Robinson, which tells the story of an ordinary house in an ordinary street which is about to become infamous.

The Little House is a compelling two-part thriller exploring the psychological power struggles within one family and the lengths an obsessive mother will go to to keep control of her son. Adapted for television by Ed Whitmore, the drama stars BAFTA-winning actress Francesca Annis, alongside Tim Pigott-Smith, Rupert Evans and Lucy Griffiths.

Whitechapel, which debuted to audiences of over nine million in 2009, returns – starring Rupert Penry-Jones, Phil Davis, and Steve Pemberton – this time focusing on a killer who is copying the crimes of the infamous Kray twins..

Joe Maddison’s War is the last television film by the late, award winning, playwright and screenwriter, Alan Plater. Starring Kevin Whately, Robson Green and Derek Jacobi – the drama follows Newcastle shipyard worker, Joe (Whately) as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery following his decision to join the Home Guard in 1939.

Sir David Jason stars in two new films for ITV1: Come Rain Come Shine – as Eastend ex-docker, Don, in an emotional and contemporary family drama by Jeff Pope; and Albert’s Memorial, a one off drama following the story of three World War II veterans who set off on a trip that will change their lives forever. And, in U Be Dead, David Morrissey and Tara Fitzgerald star in a one-off drama based on the extraordinary true story of a dangerous stalker.

There is also the return of Law & Order: UK for a third series, Midsomer Murders, and Agatha Christie’s Poirot.

Emmerdale continues with a series of gripping storylines over the autumn season; and as the year draws to a close, the nation’s favourite soap, Coronation Street celebrates its 50th anniversary in dramatic style, forever changing life in Weatherfield.

Entertainment

The Autumn has already kicked off with the return of the multi-award winning talent show, The X Factor, which returned to ITV1 with its biggest ever audience 12.6 million and a series of guest judges including Geri Halliwell, Katy Perry, Natalie Imbruglia, Nicole Scherzinger and Pixie Lott – alongside regular judges Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh and Cheryl Cole.

In September, Paul O’Grady returns to ITV1 with a lavish new entertainment show kicking off the weekends.

Ten celebrities embark on the journey of a lifetime, to the icy glaciers and snow of Scandinavia, in 71 Degrees North. Hosted by Kate Thornton and Gethin Jones, each episode of the eight-part adventure show sees the adventuring celebrities undertake specific challenges from mountain trekking through to underwater ice-swimming and reindeer herding – as they battle it out to reach the North Cape.

After a successful debut last autumn, The Cube returns to ITV1 for a second series hosted by Phillip Schofield. This time there will be new games to test the nerve of the contestants, which will include two celebrity specials during the series.

Following on from the most successful series of the show in five years, Ant and Dec return with the tenth series of I’m A Celebrity….Get Me Out Of Here! with a new selection of celebrities giving up their luxury lifestyles for a stay of up to three weeks in the Australian jungle, and some terrifying bushtucker trials.

In comedy, the multi BAFTA award-winning Harry Hill’s TV Burp returns, and a special one-off Benidorm sees the nation’s favourite holidaymakers make the trip back to Spain at Christmas, ahead of a new series in 2011.

And, one of the world’s biggest music stars makes an appearance on ITV1, in Phil Collins: One Night Only, with the singer and songwriter performing hits new and old in front of a live audience and accompanied by an extraordinary ensemble of musicians and vocalists.

Daytime

In the latest stage of the transformation of the ITV1 schedule, Breakfast time on the channel gets a completely new look from September, as Adrian Chiles and Christine Bleakley present Daybreak. Live from brand-news, state-of-the-art studios in London, Adrian and Christine will be joined by an unrivalled team of special correspondents and editors tasked with setting the day’s agenda – delivering reputation building news, engaging entertainment content, major interviews, as well as eye-catching consumer items, health, sport, human interest and lifestyle features.

Following on from Daybreak each day, Lorraine also has a new studio and a new look from September, as Lorraine Kelly continues to interview a range of guests from high profile celebrities to ordinary people with extraordinary stories.

Holly and Phil return from their summer break as This Morning continues to entertain millions across the mid-morning followed by a hugely popular daytime line up that includes Loose Women and The Jeremy Kyle Show.

Factual

Three couples hit the road on a jaunt from London to Monte Carlo in a new travel adventure series, Monte Carlo or Bust. Jack Dee and Ade Edmondson drive a VW Camper; Jodie Kidd and Julian Clary travel in a Bentley convertible; and Penny Smith and Rory McGrath get behind the wheel of a Mini Cooper – taking in the beautiful French countryside as they compete to collect items that best represent the nation.

There’s a journey of a very different kind in David Suchet on the Orient Express, as David Suchet unravels the mystery of the world’s most iconic train and immerses himself in the glamour, romance, history and escapism of a train immortalised in the Agatha Christie novel, Murder on the Orient Express.

In Ray Mears’ Wild Britain, the wildlife expert uncovers some of the finest wildlife and habitats from around the country – with each episode having a different theme.

There is a rare and fascinating look behind the scenes in one of the nation’s most iconic institutions in The Savoy – following the £200 million overhaul of one of the world’s most famous hotels and its journey towards reopening.

And ITV1 viewers are treated to wildlife of three very different kinds in three new series for the channel. In Horsepower with Martin Clunes, the actor and presenter travels the world to unlock the secrets of man’s partnership with horses. The world’s oldest zoo opens its doors to television in London Zoo. And, filmed in Namibia, Cheetah Kingdom focuses on the rescue, conservation and release of one of the world’s fastest mammals at the Okonjima Game Reserve.

Also returning to ITV1 this autumn: Stephen Tomkinson’s Balloon Adventure, Real Crime with Mark Austin, Lion Country, and the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain Awards.

Sport

The pinnacle of club football returns in September with the start of the UEFA Champions League. ITV1 will have the pick of the action on Wednesday night matchdays, with Chelsea and Manchester United amongst the teams in contention.

After the disappointment of the 2010 World Cup, England start their qualification campaign for the Euro 2012 finals, with their first match against Bulgaria live on ITV1 on September 3rd.

The world’s oldest football competition, The FA Cup, also kicks off in the autumn with the pick of the matches from round one onwards shown live on ITV1 as well as comprehensive highlights from every round.

Adrian Chiles presents ITV1’s live football coverage alongside a range of special guest analysts and expert commentary from Clive Tyldesley and Peter Drury.

ITV2

ITV2 welcomes a new genre of programming to the channel this autumn with the start of The Only Way Is Essex. An eclectic mix of soap opera, observational documentary, and reality show, the brand new 10-part living soap follows a cast of colourful characters as they go about their ‘totally Essex’ lives.

The channel goes behind the scenes with one of the biggest pop phenomenons of the last year, in Jedward: Let Loose. Following their huge success on The X Factor, the series follows the Irish twins as they set up home away from their parents for the very first time.

In The Saturdays: 24/7, ITV2 has exclusive access to one of the hottest UK bands in a new four part series following the five-piece girl group. And, in two special hour-long programmes, Denise and Fearne’s Charity Trek for Breast Cancer, sees Denise Van Outen and Fearne Cotton lead a host of female celebrities, including Holly Willoughby and Alexandra Burke, on a gruelling seven-day trek along the Inca Trail to raise money for Breast Cancer Care.

Katy Brand also returns with a brand new series, Katy Brand Versus… in which the award winning comedian meets and parodies a music star in each episode, featuring among others, Shakira and Mr Hudson. There is also the return of Fearne And... in which Fearne Cotton has exclusive access to the lives of Mischa Barton, Perez Hilton, Craig David and Beth Ditto.

One of ITV2's iconic programmes, the anarchic panel show Celebrity Juice returns to the channel bigger and better than ever; once again presented by Keith Lemon alongside Holly and Fearne. Hit US dramas, Vampire Diaries and Gossip Girl are back for new series, broadcast alongside their US premiere dates. There is the return of the hugely successful Peter Andre: The Next Chapter.

ITV2 also welcomes the hugely popular brand extension shows, The Xtra Factor, with new host Konnie Huq, and I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here Now!

ITV3

Alongside a host of classic and contemporary drama, the acclaimed ITV3 original comedy drama series Ladies of Letters, starring Maureen Lipman and Anne Reid, returns to ITV3.

Now in its third year, the Specsavers Crime Thriller Awards return to ITV3 in October, celebrating the very best of the most popular genre of fiction.

ITV4

ITV4 launches three brand new shows this autumn. A new entertainment series, Richard Bacon’s Beer and Pizza Club, will see the presenter invites guests from the world of showbusiness and comedy into his living room for beer, pizza and chat about the kind of subjects that men only discuss in private.

Mark Watson Kick's Off is a new sports panel show brought to ITV4 by the makers of Radio Five Live's successful Fighting Talk; and in Sports Mash - Taking the Mic, archive sport footage is given a comic twist by being re-voiced by Alistair McGowan and David Lamb.

Top quality sport on ITV4 in the autumn includes UEFA Europa League football, Grand Slam of Darts, and brand new snooker tournament, Power Snooker.

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