Coming to CBS in 2010-2011: New Show Previews
Matt Richenthal
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As the number-one network on television, CBS will take a lot of liberties with its 2010-2011 schedule.
It's axed Ghost Whisperer and Cold Case; it's shifted The Big Bang Theory to Thursday nights; and it's set to debut five new programs. Which of these looks the most promising? Which might not make it to spring? Let's take an early look...
MIKE AND MOLLY
What is it? A sitcom that focuses on a couple who meets at Overeaters Anonymous in Chicago.
Who stars in it? Billy Gardell, Melissa McCarthy, Swoosie Kurtz.
When does it air? Mondays at 9:30 p.m.
Prediction: It's from Chuck Lorre, the successful producer behind Two and a Half Men and The Big Bang Theory. And it's got a prime spot on CBS' Monday night comedy block. The overweight angle also gives it a nice spin on traditional relationship sitcoms. Watch a preview NOW.
HAWAII FIVE-O
What is it? The remake of an iconic TV series that focuses on detectives in Hawaii.
Who stars in it? Alex O'Loughlin, Daniel Dae Kim, Scott Caan, Grace Park.
When does it air? Mondays at 10 p.m.
Prediction: It will receive as much hype as any new show, but it lacks originality: the series has literally been done before, and this is the third time CBS has tried to make O'Loughlin a star. Watch a preview NOW.
THE DEFENDERS
What is it? A drama/comedy that centers on two eccentric lawyers in Las Vegas.
Who stars in it? Jim Belushi and Jerry O'Connell.
When does it air? Wednesdays at 10 p.m.
Prediction: The time slot isn't competitive and Belushi and O'Connell appear to have solid comedy. But can viewers really look past According to Jim and take the former remotely seriously? Watch a preview NOW.
What is it? Based on a Twitter feed, focuses on an outspoken man and his two sons.
Who stars in it? William Shatner, Nicole Sullivan, Will Sasso.
When does it air? Thursdays at 8:30 p.m.
Prediction: Who doesn't love William Shatner?!? But can CBS compete with Thursday comedies on NBC? This should benefit from its lead-in: The Big Bang Theory. Watch a preview NOW.
BLUE BLOODS
What is it? A drama about a multi-generational family of cops in New York City.
Who stars in it? Tom Selleck, Donnie Wahlberg, Will Estes, Dylan Moore, Bridget Moynihan.
When does it air? Fridays at 10 p.m.
Prediction: Written by former producers of The Sopranos, Blue Bloods looks promising. Instead of combining elements of the mob and family, it focuses on the world of NYC police and family. Watch a preview NOW.
Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.
