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Friday November 6, 2009

Girardi the Good Samaritan

"I'm goin' to Disneyland!"

...Or so went the story of what champions used to say to the camera after winning the world championship. In an inspiring twist to a great evening for Gotham, New York Yankees Manager Joe Girardi provided the icing on a great night by performing a Good Samaritan act on his way home.

So, instead of being in a wild celebration in need of a designated driver, Girardi was being good and doing good, at the same time!

It seems that on his way home from winning the World Series, Girardi was on a "curvy stretch of highway on the outskirts of New Rochelle. He came upon a car wreck and stopped to help a girl involved in it. The full story is here.

"She had no idea who I was," Girardi told a radio interviewer.

It turns out the "she" was Marie Henry, 27, of Stratford, Connecticut, who said Girardi "sprinted across three lanes of traffic to come to her aid."

A Yankee spokesman later said "A lot of people know him as 'Joe Girardi, the manager of the New York Yankees,' but Joe is someone who puts other people first.The easy thing would have been for him to just drive by. But I think it shows a lot about his character."

I think it's a neat story, and also points out an interesting fact: that there are probably thousands upon thousands of wonderful and heroic acts of character that Americans take on every day, week or month, but it seems to make the news when someone famous does it. I don't mind so much--because anything that's positive is good news by me--but it's just a thing, that when someone famous does it, it's news.

With all of the negative stories about sports stars today, I love hearing a great story about a good guy. It's a welcome change of pace. I'll add, though, a nod going out to all of those who know a story will never be written but they do the right thing anyway. And I hope a story such as Girardi's rescue of Ms. Henry spurs us all on to become a little bit better version of ourselves, starting with the next chance we have to do something selfless.

Oh, yes, and one more thing: it amazes me how much people use the term "Good Samaritan" to describe such acts, but don't dive into the rest of the Jesus story quite as seriously. But that's for another post! Way ta go, Joe Giradi! Nicely done.

Friday November 6, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Marion Ross's 10 Ways to Have 'Happy Days'

Marion RossAs one of TV's most memorable moms, Marion Ross has both entertained and inspired women through her portrayal of the loving, charming Marion Cunningham on "Happy Days."

Now Ross is set to star in a new Hallmark Channel Original Movie, "Flower Girl" (premiers November 14) as a mischievous grandmother who tries to help her florist granddaughter find love.

We asked Ross to share her favorite tips for having a "happy day."

Check out the gallery "10 Ways to Have a 'Happy Day'" on Beliefnet.

And please post your own tips in the comments box below.

Happy Days

Thursday November 5, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

ABC's 'V': Leapin' Lizards, This Reimagining is Fun

At first, the pilot of the relaunched 'V,' the reimagining of the 80s sci-fi classic about alien visitors endearing themselves to humanity only to further their nefarious plan, wasn't catching my attention. Sure, the effects were out-of-this-world, but I was beginning to worry that this reimagining was going to be a "Stargate: Universe:" a refurbishment of a franchise trying to cash in on the gravitas of the award-winning "BattleStar Galactica," but losing the cheesetastic melodrama that made it so watchable.

The original "V" miniseries and subsequent series, which aired on NBC, was an allegory about the dangers of fascism (hello Niazi-esque red and black uniforms, swastika-like emblem, and a youth auxiliary movement!)--and some would say a critique of the Reagan Era, The redux rests comfortably and firmly in its post-9/11 reality. And while at least one writer suspects that the new show is a condemnation of the Obama Administration (kudos to the writers for the ominous "universal healthcare" shout out from the Visitor's leader), it seems more likely than not that the genre's liberal bent will out and the resistance will be hope we can believe in, so to speak.

But I just wasn't taking to the characters that we have seen so often on other shows: the suspicious FBI agent tracking terrorist cells, the man with a secret past, the doubting priest. In fact, it made me long for the network's canceled-too-soon "Invasion."

How long, I wondered, would it take for these story threads to be woven together and when, when would the Visitors be revealed to be evil space lizards? Because for all of the sci-fi genre's portents as thinly veiled socio-political allegory, 'V' is really about rodent-eating reptiles bent on destroying humanity--that's what those of us who fondly hold the original series close wanted to see. And that's what, ultimately, was delivered.


Wednesday November 4, 2009

Categories: Pop Culture, Television

'Sesame Street' Anniversary: Beliefnet Staff Share Lessons Learned

Sesame Street castIn celebration of the upcoming 40th anniversary of "Sesame Street" (November 10), one of the most beloved children's TV shows in history, Beliefnet staff members share the lessons they learned that have stayed with them throughout the years.

"When I'm Itchy, I Scratch"

Among the many memorable songs that were sing-in-the-backseat-of-the-car staples of my childhood is the growly, slow, completely frank number "When I'm Itchy, I Scratch."

The images on the screen were of bison and other big beasts scritching and scratching their backs against trees and rocks, and the lyrics preached an utterly animalistic sort of common sense. "When I'm hungry, I eat. When I'm thirsty, I drink. I get my fires lit up with a match, and when I'm itchy, I scratch."

Looking at it one way, I suppose the song could be read as the case against self-control, doing exactly what you want when you want it. But I think the song has more to do with the virtues of instinct, the simple categories of needs that we all need to meet--but not exceed. So if you'll excuse me, I have to go look for a scratch-worthy tree...

--Holly Lebowitz Rossi, Health editor and Fresh Living blogger

"1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12. Dooo doo doo doo doo doo doo doo do do"

When I was about 3 I was taught to count to 12 by a trippy-groovy singing pinball machine. I'd dance around the room in feety pajamas, singing at the top of my lungs.

--Jenn Sturiale, Product Manager

The Lovable Oscar the Grouch

I loved "Sesame Street" growing up and would often watch it about 2 inches from the TV set with my younger brother and sister (which explains my horrible vision) because I wanted to be as close to my friends on the show as possible--maybe even warp through the screen for a visit.

My favorite character was Oscar the Grouch, mainly because he reminded me a lot of my dad--a gruff and grumpy Brooklyn-born man with a warm heart--but also because I really wanted to jump into his garbage can and see his digs. I just knew there was a whole world in that can and I wanted to explore it.

But overall, Oscar taught me a lot about not judging a book by its cover. Sure he was a grouch, but when a child needed help or advice he was always around, proving there was love and compassion underneath that dirty green fur.

--Dena Ross, Entertainment Editor

Tuesday November 3, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Kate Gosselin Interview with Natalie Morales: A New Side of Kate

Kate GosselinLast night in between watching my beloved Yankees try to win the World Series, I tuned into TLC's special "Kate: Her Story," in which Kate Gosselin, star of "Jon & Kate Plus 8," was interviewed by NBC's Natalie Morales.

When allegations of her husband Jon's infidelity was initially reported in the tabloids (apparently rumors had been floating around their town for months before anything was reported in the media), part of me was disgusted that a married man with so many children could do such a thing, while at the same time, I felt it was only a matter of time before Jon would get fed up with Kate emasculating him in almost every episode.

But throughout the past few months, Jon has done nothing to fix his reputation (um, unless you want to count his recent self-denunciation meeting with Rabbi Shmuley). Not only did he jump into another relationship right away, but he's bad mouthed Kate to the press, something you just don't do to the mother of your (8) children.

In last night's interview, Kate was candid about her life and feelings. She discussed growing up in a strict Christian home and admitted that her relationship with her parents isn't very good. She acknowledged that her brother Kevin and sister-in-law Jodi--whom she was very close with at one time--have sold her out to the press for money. She also admitted that there were times she didn't treat Jon very well.

Morales did an excellent job of trying to get at the heart of how the "wholesome reality show" rapidly turned into a "soap opera" and didn't let Kate get off easily, questioning how she could on one hand say that she "wants peace for her kids" and that they "deserve life served to them on a silver platter," yet puts them and herself in a position to be hounded by paparazzi and featured on tabloid covers.

Kate countered that "we did four seasons without paparazzi."

Kate revealed that she and Jon "mutually agreed" to end things and that it stemmed from the fact that "goals very much changed--his goals changed." But does admit that she still has feelings for him.

Monday November 2, 2009

Hi, My Name's Jon Gosselin. (Hi, Jon!) And I'm a Fame-aholic.

Here are three reasons to suspect that you're a fame-a-holic. One, your life is a disaster. Two, even when you come to terms with your mistakes and apologize to those you've hurt, you have a microphone clipped to your lapel....

Friday October 30, 2009

We Are All Vampires, Especially Don Draper

Are we all vampires? And what do vampires have to do with "Mad Men"?

Friday October 30, 2009

After Near-Octomom Experience, Jon Gosselin Gets Faith

Marriage, the death of a parent, the birth of a child: we here at Beliefnet pride ourselves on knowing what brings people back to a faith they've long ignored or to discover one they never had. But Jon Gosselin has...

Wednesday October 28, 2009

Catholic League President Positively Peeved at Larry David

You can't watch as much offensive television as Catholic League president Bill Donahue does without becoming a bit of a connoisseur. But a TV critic? Faced with the latest provocation from Larry David--in Sunday's episode of the "Curb Your Enthusiasm,"...

Wednesday October 28, 2009

Categories: Pop Culture, Television

Sacha Baron Cohen: Homer's Holy Land Tour Guide

When the Simpsons visit Israel early next year, look for their tour guide to be played by "Bruno"'s Sacha Baron Cohen.

Tuesday October 27, 2009

The World Series is Here!!! Uh...

The World Series starts this week. "Yeah!" say the Yankee fans. "Yeah!" say the Phillie fans. "Dang," say the Southern California fans, whose Dodgers and Angels both lost in the semi-finals. And, unfortunately, "Yawn" goes the rest of the country....

Thursday October 22, 2009

Categories: Movies, Television

Puck's Simchas Torah Inspiration on 'Glee'

On "Glee," Puck finds dating inspiration in the Jewish holiday of Simchas Torah.

Thursday October 22, 2009

Categories: Television, Trends

J.J. Abrams Introduces Yet Another Guru, this time on 'Fringe'

I can count way too many JJ Abrams television shows in my repertoire of TV addictions both past and present, but with Felicity as his only exception (unless you count Noel as a guru of sorts--he was an RA after...

Wednesday October 21, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

'Ghost Hunters,' 'Destination Truth,' & 'Paranormal State' Offer up Smallscreen Scares

"Ghot Hunters," "Destination Truth," and "Paranormal State" prove that great ghost-hunting frights aren't just found at the cineplex.

Wednesday October 21, 2009

Glee's Puck Sings to Honor Jewish Icon

One of Glee's Jewish characters sings a song in tribute to a Jewish musical icon.

Tuesday October 20, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television, Video

Beliefnet's Rabbi Shmuley Mentioned on '30 Rock'

Beliefnet blogger Rabbi Shmuley Boteach was mentioned by Tracy's Morgan's character on "30 Rock."

Monday October 19, 2009

The 10 Commandments in 'Star Trek'

Gene Roddenberry's vision of "Star Trek" was a future dominated by science and human ingenuity, without religion to mess things up. Even so, we have found 10 examples of how the Ten Commandments have found their way into the popular sci-fi franchise.

Thursday October 15, 2009

Categories: Pop Culture, Television

Glee's Jewish Characters

A look at a few Jewish characters on "Glee."

Tuesday October 13, 2009

Faith in Sports: Authentic or Superstitious?

"And I'd like to thank God Almighty," reads the headline in a current USA Today.com feature. "In big-time sports, God often gets a prominent place on the field of play," it goes on to say. "A shout-out here, a...

Monday October 12, 2009

Miley Cyrus Quits Twitter and Urges Others to do Same

"Hannah Montana" star Miley Cyrus' decision to stop Twittering raised such a furor that you would have thought that Walter Cronkite had refused to read the news during the Vietnam War. Ok, so it wasn't quite that serious, but everyone...

Friday October 9, 2009

Playboy's Newest Cover Model: Marge Simpson

Playboy's November issue will feature Marge Simpson on its cover and in a three-page spread with "implied nudity."

Friday October 9, 2009

Categories: Television

'The Good Wife': Redemption Is Sweet

Oh let me count the ways that 'The Good Wife' is the best new show on television! Julianna Margulies is stunning in the role of Alicia Florrick, the wife of fallen politician Peter Florrick (Chris Noth), caught on video...

Friday October 9, 2009

Categories: Pop Culture, Television, Video

'The Office' Inspired by YouTube Wedding Dance Video

By now everyone has watched Jill and Kevin's famous wedding entrance video (over 27 million views on YouTube!) to Chris Brown's song "Forever." Last night, in one of TV's most anticipated weddings, Pam Beasley and Jim Halpert (PB&J) finally tied...

Friday October 9, 2009

It's a GrandDuggar!

Kate Gosselin must be shaking in her boots: People.com reports that Mackynzie Renée Duggar (see photos here), the first daughter of the oldest Duggar, Joshua, and his wife, Anna, arrived late last night. That's right, it's the first grandchild of...

Thursday October 8, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

'Hoarders' Catches Oprah's Eye

I've been transfixed by "Hoarders," A&E's new reality show about compulsive hoarding, since it premiered, and now Oprah's jumping on the bandwagon, or shall I say, on top of the pile, by featuring the illness on today's show (check local...

Wednesday October 7, 2009

'Nightline' Asks: Is 'OMG!' Blasphemy?

The popularity of "Gossip Girl" may be waning -- it was last in the ratings this past week -- but the popularity of "OMG!", one of the teen drama's catchphrases and the bedrock of one of its ad campaigns, has...

Monday October 5, 2009

'Family Goy' Episode Explores Lois Griffin's Jewish Identity

People who watch "Family Guy" are used to a strong case of the random and bizarre. This week is no different, as we're treated to a seemingly appropro of nothing Superfriends intro credits and two seemingly unrelated storylines (Quagmire discovers...

Friday October 2, 2009

Letterman Takes the Truthy Way Out

David Letterman performed a ten-minute comedy routine last evening about how he'd been blackmailed. The punchline was that he had indeed had sex with female employees, the scuttlebutt that his blackmailer, reportedly a producer for the CBS show "48 Hours,"...

Wednesday September 30, 2009

Re: Jon and Kate; The Learning Channel Needs to Learn

By now you've probably heard that TLC's "Jon and Kate Plus 8" is being turned into "Kate Plus 8," as Jon is out of not only the marriage but, beginning in November, he'll be out of the show itself. Idol...

Wednesday September 30, 2009

Categories: Television

'I Kissed a Vampire': Vampire Stories for the Rest of Us

iTunes has a new vampire series "I Kissed a Vampire" and it debuts October 13th.

Tuesday September 29, 2009

Jon Gosselin Gets a 'Dear John' Letter from TLC

Back in July, I wrote my own "Dear John" letter to Jon Gosselin, explaining that it really was him when it came to my decision to side with "Team Kate." And now TLC, the cable channel that spawned the whole...

Monday September 28, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Ernie Hudson Talks to Beliefnet About His New Role on 'Heroes'

Actor Ernie Hudson talks about his role on "Heroes" and whether God plays a role on the show.

Friday September 25, 2009

Categories: Pop Culture, Television, Trends

ABC Nightline's Relevant Question: 'Are We Born to Cheat?'

An episode of a show that sounded lame, one that aired during a time that wasn't really convenient, aired Thursday night.  I recommend you watch it online here at ABCNews.com. Were we born to cheat? Is adultery an outdated concept?...

Friday September 25, 2009

Categories: Television

Sunday Night Sizzles: 'Dexter' and 'The National Parks'

Missing the Sunday night appointment television rush of "True Blood?" Well, everyone's favorite serial killer-killing serial killer (say that ten times fast) is back with an infusion of frightening fun. This season Dexter faces not only the complexities and...

Friday September 25, 2009

Categories: Television

A 'Supernatural' Search for God

I never really enjoyed the later "mythology" episodes of the "X-Files," but sat through them dutifully so that I could get to the delicious monster-of-the-week episodes. But, I've never felt that way about "Supernatural," the CW's scarily witty and...

Thursday September 24, 2009

Categories: Television

Sneak Peek: Lust vs. Adultery on ABC Nightline

Are we born to cheat? Is lust a natural desire or a form of adultery? In part one of ABC Nightline's 'Ten Commandments' series, the hot topic of adultery is openly debated between four panelists: Pastor Ed Young of Fellowship...

Wednesday September 23, 2009

Mackenzie Phillips' Revelations: Reality Check, Paycheck or Both?

This afternoon, actress Mackenzie Phillips (One Day at a Time) is set to take to Oprah's couch to reveal all about the ten year, drug-fueled incestuous relationship she had with her father, John Phillips of The Mamas and The Papas....

Tuesday September 22, 2009

Categories: Television

'House' Season Premiere: Healing House is a Bad Idea

My favorite misanthrope doctor, Gregory House, returned to TV in the season premiere of "House" last night, but was he too nice?

Saturday September 19, 2009

Categories: Television

'Friday Night Lights' Wins Humanitas Prize

One of my favorite shows, "Friday Night LIghts" just received the coveted Humanitas Prize for excellence in writing.

Wednesday September 16, 2009

One More Eulogy for Mr. Patrick Swayze

By now you've heard that Patrick Swayze has died. He described himself as a spiritual "seeker." And you've probably read or heard or watched quite a bit about his life. Allow me to add these few words, a few which...

Tuesday September 15, 2009

Categories: Television, Trends

'True Blood' Season Finale: Nice Day for a White Wedding

So there's no singing, but the grotesque and the bizarre mixed with the comic is how I've finally come to see HBO's most popular new series, True Blood. The season finale on Sunday came with a heavy dose of ridiculous,...

Monday September 14, 2009

MTV Video Music Awards: Back in Fighting Form

I bemoaned last year's MTV Video Music Awards as lacking the usual raucousness usually associated with the water cooler-worthy awards show. But last night's VMAs, hosted once again by British comedian Russell Brand, didn't disappoint. Intended to be a fitting...

Friday September 11, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

Week in Review: 'Melrose Place,' Glee,' Vampire Diaries,' Supernatural'

September is here and that can mean only one thing: new television! Ok, it also means that kids are back in school and the leaves will soon be turning, but there's nothing like the lure of brand new episodes of...

Thursday September 10, 2009

Class Conflict: 'American Idol' Adds Ellen DeGeneres

You can't argue that Ellen DeGeneres is everything my fellow blogger Joanne Brokaw says she is: funny, encouraging, warm--and I'll add forthright, wholesome and brimming with common sense. All of which makes her selection to replace Paula Abdul as a...

Thursday September 10, 2009

Categories: Television, Trends

'The Vampire Diaries' Starts Tonight!

Question: Is it possible that we've gone a little vampire overboard? Answer: Naahhhh. Not according to me at least. When LJ Smith's "The Vampire Diaries" series of books came out in the very early 90's, I read them as an...

Wednesday September 9, 2009

Lovitz vs. Cruise: Religious Cagematch on 'Conan"

The religious debate of the century: Jon Lovitz on behalf of Judaism, Tom Cruise representing Scientology in a most hallowed venue: on the Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien.

Tuesday September 8, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

Spiritual TV Guide -- 2009/2010 Edition

A look at the new spiritual TV shows of the fall/winter season--including "Eastwick," "The Vampire Diaries," "FlashForward," "Human Target," and more. Plus the returning favorites "Lost," "Heroes," "Medium," and more.

Friday September 4, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

The Duggars Do it Again: Will the Public Ever Tire?

I was trolling around People.com yesterday looking for the poll asking readers to weigh in on what "J" name Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, of TLC's "18 Kids and Counting," should bestow on their recently announced nineteenth addition, when I...

Thursday September 3, 2009

The Subversive Faith of Stephen Colbert

It's not news that Stephen Colbert is a Catholic. He's admitted as much on his Comedy Channel show, "The Colbert Report." (Besides, even with the best hairstylists in television at your disposal, you can't fake that precisely parted, altar-boy-grown-up hair-do.)...

Thursday September 3, 2009

Categories: Television, Trends

Ramadan Is a time for Prayer, Fasting, and...TV?: 'Freej' and Grannies in Veils!

I learned something new today. Apparently, at least in Dubai, Ramadan is a time for more than daily prayer and fasting, it's a holy time for television, too: "it is also the Middle Eastern equivalent of sweeps month," according to...

Thursday September 3, 2009

Spiritually Speaking, We Need to Laugh and Jay's Back

Jay Leno is finally coming back to evening television, and, in my opinion, it's not a moment too soon. We need to laugh more, go to bed earlier, carry less stress and treat each other better every day. So the...

Tuesday September 1, 2009

Categories: Television, Trends

'True Blood': HBO's Biggest Hit Next to 'The Sopranos'?

Despite (or perhaps because of?) all the cannibalism, orgies, blood-sucking, and shape-shifting in season two of HBO's vampire-centric 'True Blood,' surveys say that 'True Blood' is a bona fide hit--HBO's biggest in the history of the network next to 'The...

Tuesday September 1, 2009

Mr. Kennedy's Religion: Honored in Death, What About in Life?

Well, the Lying in Repose, the Celebration, the Memorial Service and the Funeral are over. And the respect for Sir Ted Kennedy will live on. (You can read more here.) And after it all, what I will remember most about...

Monday August 31, 2009

Emmy Hopeful 'Mad Men' Has a Spiritual Side

As the Emmy awards approach while the Fall season kicks into gear, AMC's "Mad Men" is at the top of both discussions. It garnered 16 Emmy nominations, more than "Desperate Houswives," "Grey's Anatomy" and "ER" combined. And for good reason....

Wednesday August 26, 2009

Gyllenhaal, Messing, Applegate, Other Celebs to Say 'Shalom Sesame' for Israel-Themed Kids' Show

A new kids' program from the creators of Sesame Street examines Jewish life and identity and life in Israel, and will feature several Hollywood celebrities.

Tuesday August 25, 2009

Categories: DVDs, Pop Culture, Television

'Thirtysomething' Arrives on DVD: Was It Soulless or Soulful?

The 80s cult classic 'thirtysomething' is now on DVD and I am thrilled about it.

Monday August 24, 2009

Categories: Television

Spike (James Marsters) to Star on Caprica!

James Marsters, who played Spike on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" will be starring on SyFy's "Caprica" as a terrorist.

Friday August 21, 2009

Categories: Television

'The Human Family Tree': Who Are You?

The National Geographic Channel will be airing "The Human Family Tree," which using DNA samples from over 350,000 people around the world, attempts to demonstrate that we all share common ancestors.

Monday August 17, 2009

Categories: Television

'Mad Men' Season Opener: What Happened to the 'Mad' Women?

Mad Men season three premiere aired Sunday night.

Friday August 14, 2009

Categories: Television, Trends

A Vampire, A Werewolf, and a Ghost Meet in a Bar: The BBC's 'Being Human'

Have you seen the BBC's new tv series, 'Being Human' yet? It's the latest entry in a growing list of television shows (think HBO's 'True Blood' and CBS's one-season wonder, 'Moonlight') trying to capitalize on the phenomenon of people everywhere...

Friday August 14, 2009

Categories: Television

Vampire v. Preacher, Werewolf v. Satan: 'True Blood' Careens to a Close

"True Blood" is getting interesting again as it heads into the next four, and final, episodes of this summer.

Thursday August 13, 2009

Categories: Television

Are you a 'Family Guy' Fan? Some Interesting News...(And one Native Rhode Islander's Opinion)

Seth MacFarlane, creator of "Family Guy," has confirmed that Lois is Jewish and Stewie is gay.

Thursday August 13, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Omarosa: The Apprentice Theologian

Omarosa says she has heard God's call to go to seminary.

Thursday August 13, 2009

Roker and Kotb: Inspired by Body Odor

Of all of the things that get modeled on television, I think one of the most warm, family-friendly and inspiring events that ever occurs is when stars show themselves to be humble. To be human. To be the brunt of...

Wednesday August 12, 2009

Fox's 'OctoMom' Special Anything But

So FOX has ordered up a Nadya Suleman special to be titled "Octomom: The Incredible Unseen Footage." Or as I like to think of it, "When Fertility Treatments Attack." As the Hollywood Reporter's Live Feed reports, the two-hour documentary, set...

Tuesday August 11, 2009

Miley Cyrus' 'Pole Dancing' at the Teen Choice Awards

Everyone is upset that Miley Cyrus was "pole dancing" at the Teen Choice Awards. But why doesn't anyone care that convicted rapist Mike Tyson was on the show?

Thursday August 6, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

BBC America's Buzzworthy 'Skins' Returns

The news of director John Hughes' ("The Breakfast Club," "Some Kind of Wonderful," Pretty in Pink") passing this morning is made even more poignant by the fact that the latest season of "Skins," a gritty BBC teen drama full of...

Wednesday August 5, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

My Final Advice to Kate Gosselin

My final advice for TLC star Kate Gosselin on life after Jon.

Friday July 31, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

Quiz: The Religion of TV Characters

A fun quiz on the religious lives of TV characters.

Wednesday July 29, 2009

Categories: Television

'More to Love': What's Not to Love?

The new Fox reality show "More to Love" is a fresh take on "The Bachelor"--but I do have a few issues with it.

Tuesday July 28, 2009

The Daily Show, With...Jonathan Leibowitz?

A discussion of whether Jon Stewart should change his name back to his original, more Jewish birth name, Jonathan Stuart Leibowitz.

Tuesday July 28, 2009

Categories: Television

Discover 'The Colony'

Discovery Channel's new post-apocalyptic reality show, "The Colony" is an intriguing mix of "Survivor" and the Worst Case Scenario Survival Handbook--it's intriguing, but I have my suspicions about the show.

Tuesday July 28, 2009

Michael Vick: Repentance, Forgiveness, or Refusal?

Michael Vick, who was just released from jail after financing and hosting a dog fighting operation, will be given another chance to play for the NFL. Here's why I'm going to pray for him and draft him onto my fantasy team.

Monday July 27, 2009

Can Rush, Oprah and Dr. Phil Serve Two Masters?

If the top twelve media personalities (including Rush Limbaugh, Oprah, Simon Cowell, etc.) alone banked a total of $829 million last year--then when will our culture wake up to the fact that what we see on the air is not so much a reflection of culture but a reflection of what generates money for media stars and all of those who make money off of their shows?

Friday July 24, 2009

Categories: Television

Why Did NBC's 'Kings' Fail? (Or Not)

I had the good fortune of going to an advance screening of the premier for "Kings"--a TV show based on the Old Testament story of David and Goliath and the succession of kings that follows--with the cast and writer, Michael...

Friday July 24, 2009

Categories: Television

Watch This: 'Torchwood: Children of Earth'

"Torchwood: Children of Earth," the "Doctor Who" spinoff miniseries currently playing on BBC America, is so good that I have practically forgotten the mediocrity that was "Torchwood's" second season and can forgive all of its distracting stunt casting and convoluted...

Wednesday July 22, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music, Television

Catch Up With Susan Boyle on 'America's Got Talent'

I am no flash in the pan Susan Boyle fan. I have been following her rising star with both interest and anxiety as she has navigated life after being runner-up on "Britain's Got Talent." Overnight singing sensation Boyle was hospitalized...

Tuesday July 21, 2009

Whoaaa: Mayim Bialik Returns to TV

Most people remember Mayim Bialik as the precocious heroine of the show "Blossom," itself famous for another character named "Six," and which provided a TV home for Joey Lawrence and his signature exclamation, "Whoaaa." Others may remember even further back,...

Monday July 20, 2009

Categories: Television

Final Episodes of 'Pushing Daisies' Now Available

Many "Pushing Daisies" fans were left with only a small taste of the sweetness and richness that made up the crazy world of magical pie baker Ned and his resurrected childhood sweetheart Chuck because ABC played only a few episodes...

Monday July 20, 2009

Walter Cronkite: A Man of Truth

He was the last trusted anchor. He was the man in the cultural pulpit. He was the one whom we trusted. He was what we once knew every night: the one who brought an unbiased representation of the news of...

Friday July 17, 2009

Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Moon Landing

40 years ago this Monday, my neighbor, Neil Armstrong, walked on the moon. I'm not sure which is more unbelievable to me: the fact that it happened, or the fact that he and I now have mutual friends (I've never...

Thursday July 16, 2009

Emmy Nominations: Expanded Lists, Diluted Power

The Emmy nominations were announced today, which for me is a good-news-bad-news thing. In fact, it's bittersweet. For the record, "30 Rock" and "Mad Men" absolutely dominated the nominations. "30 Rock" led the comedy side of the slate with an...

Thursday July 16, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

'Family Guy' Gets Emmy Nomination

The Emmy nominations for 2009 were announced this morning and the biggest surprise of all was the inclusion of the Fox animated series, "Family Guy"--a show that's known for keeping the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on their toes with their...

Tuesday July 14, 2009

Categories: Fashion, Television

A 'Dear John' Letter to Jon Gosselin

Dear Jon, Once upon a time, I sympathized with you, cringed with you as Kate commanded your every movement (to the point of telling you not to breathe so loudly) and browbeat your every decision. With reports of Kate off...

Thursday July 9, 2009

The Ultimate Reality TV: Convert an Athiest!

Well, we borrowed "American Idol" from Britain, and I say it's time to borrow another TV show. This one's from, of all places, Turkey! It's designed to do something you'd never think is possible in a country like that--nor ours...

Wednesday July 8, 2009

Respects to All, Including Mr. McNamara

Apparently death isn't a strong news story if there's too many at one time. I fear our pop culture has become such a strong force in our nation that it may have more of an impact than it should upon...

Wednesday July 8, 2009

Watch TV Clip: 'Mending Fences'

In this clip from Hallmark's upcoming TV movie, a woman (Angie Dickinson) and her daughter (Laura Leighton) fight to save a town's water supply, which is threatened by the development of a casino. "Mending Fences" airs July 18....

Tuesday July 7, 2009

Faith-based Sarah Palin is a Media Star

You may like her. You may not. But regardless of what the majority of politicos and pollsters are saying about her, Sarah Palin is emerging as one of the most recognizable pop culture icons of our time. She is the...

Monday July 6, 2009

Roger Federer and Tiger Woods's Weekend Wins

Sometimes sports television crosses over into the world of pop culture, and this year's July 4th weekend certainly marked such a time. Roger Federer won his historically best 15th Grand Slam tennis title, and Tiger Woods won the tournament he...

Thursday July 2, 2009

Categories: Television

'Saving Grace': Keeps Getting Better

I've been watching "Saving Grace" since the pilot aired, and the show is so well-written, well-acted, and edgy that it converted me to become a Holly Hunter fan. Though the show's angel-spirituality side can get a bit syrupy at...

Thursday July 2, 2009

Categories: Television

Hung Up on HBO's 'Hung'

I still haven't quite forgiven HBO for canceling the brilliance of "Rome" only to perpetrate the anemic "John from Cincinnati" on viewers. Last year's launch of "True Blood" put a better taste in my mouth, and now I find myself...

Thursday July 2, 2009

Categories: Television, Trends

'True Blood' Marathon This Weekend on HBO

On Sunday, HBO will re-air the first three episodes of the second season of "True Blood." So if you're behind or just caught up from Netflix, or you simply love vampires, this is the night to wind down the...

Tuesday June 30, 2009

Beyonce's 'Ave Maria': Disrespectful Or Not?

In typical fashion, this year's BET Awards were a mishmash of randomness--not enough awards, too many sub-par performances and, even for a night that was to be dedicated to the late great King of Pop, Michael Jackson, it was barely...

Tuesday June 30, 2009

10 Oscar Nominees for Best Picture: I Like It!

I read with interest the post by fellow Idol Chatter blogger Kris Rasmussen, as well as several other articles regarding the news from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences that they'll now nominate ten movies for the Best Picture category...

Monday June 29, 2009

Michael, Farrah, Ed, and Billy: Where Are They Now?

My heart goes out to the families, friends and fans of Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett, Ed McMahon, and Billy Mays. I'm not sure I can remember a time when four celebrities passed away so close to each other, and...

Wednesday June 24, 2009

Buffy vs. Edward: Feminist Redux?

So my esteemed fellow blogger, Esther Kustanowitz beat me to the punch by posting the hilarious Buffy vs. Edward video-mash-up flying around the net these last couple of days. But in addition to the sheer enjoyment provided by watching one...

Monday June 22, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Jon and Kate to Divorce

As almost everyone suspected, the stars of the TLC hit reality show "Jon & Kate Plus 8," Jon and Kate Gosselin, have publically announced they are separating on a special episode of their show that aired tonight. Although they never...

Friday June 19, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Denise Richards Gets Spiritual

Actress Denise Richards, ex-wife of Charlie Sheen and star of the reality TV show "It's Complicated," will soon guest host medium/spiritualist John Edward's show. The star began a deep appreciation for the spiritual world after her mother passed away in...

Friday June 19, 2009

Categories: Television

'Iran and the West': Don't Miss This Timely National Geographic Channel Special

There could be no more serendipitous programming on television this coming week than National Geographic Channel's "Iran and the West," as the eyes of the world are focused currently on the Islamic Republic's post-election protests and threatened crackdown on those...

Thursday June 18, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Jon and Kate to Make Announcement

I'll admit, after being a regular viewer, I've missed the last two episodes of "Jon & Kate Plus 8." I'm starting to get sick of watching them play out their marriage drama on TV, not to mention the fact that...

Thursday June 18, 2009

Categories: Television, Trends

HBO's 'True Blood': It's All About Being Saved This Season

Finding salvation, redemption, forgiveness--HBO's second season of the vampire-centric "True Blood" seems to be dripping with these themes in its premiere episode last Sunday, "Nothing But the Blood." Of course, the forms of salvation, etc., may vary. Jason Stackhouse, Sookie's...

Wednesday June 17, 2009

Categories: Television

'16 and Pregnant' is Important Television

When news that Jamie Lynn Spears was pregnant at 16 first broke back in December 2007, I suggested that Ms. Spears turn it into a teaching moment and film a reality spotlighting the hardships of being a teen mother. Well,...

Wednesday June 17, 2009

Need a Hasid for Your Film? Call Rabbi Elli - He'll Hook You Up

If you're setting a film or television program in New York City, and are casting background actors, you're probably going to need a few good men...specifically, Hasidic Jews. These ultra-Orthodox Jews are part of the NY landscape, and--from television shows...

Monday June 15, 2009

Categories: Television

Asra Nomani's back in PBS's 'The Mosque in Morgantown'

If you are at all active in the national American Muslim community, or if you have paid attention in the least bit to the myriad of issues Muslim-Americans have struggled with since the tragedy of 9/11, then you've heard...

Monday June 15, 2009

Categories: Television

Say 'I Might' to 'Wedding Day'

TNT sells itself as the network that "knows drama," but it's now branching out into melodrama with a new "unscripted drama" (read: reality show) called "Wedding Day," in which deserving couples get their dream walk down the aisle. I'm not...

Monday June 15, 2009

Categories: Television

'Saving Grace' Debuts New Season Tuesday Night

TNT has certainly been successful at creating summer series centered around strong female characters, whether it's my favorite "The Closer," "Raising the Bar" or it's big hit, "Saving Grace." I felt like the first two seasons of TNT's police drama...

Friday June 12, 2009

David Carradine: Death, Life, Stories...But No Suicide

David Carradine, the well-known, well-remembered and well-misunderstood actor, died on the other side of the world recently, and news emerged that his death was the result of either suicide, personal experimentation gone bad, or foul play. Now the news has...

Friday June 12, 2009

Categories: Television, Trends

More Vampires! HBO's 'True Blood' Returns

In my opinion, the jury's still out on whether season two of HBO's "True Blood"--premiering this Sunday, June 14th--is worth the commitment. Whereas season one started off promising--Sookie Stackhouse meets vampire Bill, who is not only good looking but old-fashioned...

Friday June 12, 2009

Categories: Television, Trends

HBO's 'True Blood': Season Two Trailer

While you're counting down the days (hours and minutes--HBO actually has a countdown on the "True Blood" homepage), definitely check out the trailer for Season Two. Some of it's rather sexy and romantic (i.e. promising), some of it is, well,...

Thursday June 11, 2009

Colbert from Iraq: More Relevant Than We Expected?

Every time I travel to Los Angeles I love picking up my beloved L.A. Times. When I can't, I read it online. A recent story on Stephen Colbert caught my attention. What do you think Stephen Colbert would have to...

Monday June 8, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Simply the Best: Why the Tony Awards Are So Much Fun

Yes, I am a self-professed theater geek, but regardless of that fact, I don't understand why the Tonys aren't celebrated more or why the show doesn't draw bigger numbers. As award shows go, it's the theater folks who know how...

Friday June 5, 2009

Categories: Television

'College Life' Spring Break: Christian Style

You may have never heard of "College Life," MTV's attempt at creating a real reality show by letting loose University of Wisconsin - Madison students with cameras, but it's an interesting little gem tucked away at the 11:30 p.m. Monday...

Friday June 5, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

Religion in 'Family Quiz' Quiz

If you're a fan of the FOX animated show "Family Guy" (and really, who isn't?), you've noticed religion plays a big role in the show--even if most of the time it's in a sacrilegious and offensive way. Discover how much...

Thursday June 4, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Movies, Television

David Carradine Dies

Actor David Carradine, who's starred in a number of movies and TV shows, but best known for roles in the TV show "Kung Fu," and the "Kill Bill" movies, was found dead in his hotel room in Bangkok, according to...

Wednesday June 3, 2009

Categories: Television

Ethics and 'The Goode Family'

Over on the cool blog Everyday Ethics, Hillary Fields talks about the new Mike Judge cartoon comedy, "The Goode Family," where a family of PC do-gooders take being responsible to the extreme. Fields asks, "Does being ethical mean being annoying?"...

Wednesday June 3, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Candace Cameron Bure to Star in New TV Show

Best known as adorable older daughter DJ on "Full House," Candace Cameron Bure focused most of her time on her marriage and raising a family after the hit TV show ended in 1995. Now the Christian actress has landed a...

Tuesday June 2, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

The Speidi Prayer Heard 'Round the World

Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt have struck again. The conflicted couple of "The Hills" fame has taken their sideshow to the reality show about washed up celebrities, "I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here." Now I will be honest,...

Tuesday June 2, 2009

Conans' 'Tonight Show' Launched, But Not Lost at Sea!

The fifth host of "The Tonight Show" took his place last night as Conan O'Brien launched his reign, succeeding Jay Leno, Johnny Carson, Jack Parr and Steve Allen. If you saw it, you know that there were several stunts, stars,...

Tuesday June 2, 2009

Jennifer Hudson is...Preggers?

One of my teenage daughters recently asked me if I'd heard that "Jennifer Hudson was preggers?" Being the responsible journalist that I am, I was able to confirm the report at several sites including ones here and here. I...

Monday June 1, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Susan Boyle Almost Reaches Dream, Has Meltdown

The Cinderella story of Scottish singer Susan Boyle ended Saturday night when she performed on the "Britain's Got Talent" finale. Though she was an odds-on favorite to win, the dance team Diversity beat her with a stunning performance, leaving Susan...

Monday June 1, 2009

MTV Awards -- Ready For Prime Time Cable!

The MTV Movie Awards have always been wild, but I found myself in one of two places last night and I can't figure out which. Either I'm everything I never wanted to become in terms of being like my parents...

Monday June 1, 2009

Jay Leno's Last 'Tonight Show'

Last Friday, I witnessed a piece of TV history--the last "Tonight Show with Jay Leno," as it ended its 17-year run with a highly anticipated and well-marketed finale. I grew up about a mile from the set of "The Tonight...

Friday May 29, 2009

Categories: Movies, Television, Video

Watch Trailer: 'Smile Pinki'

This touching documentary--which won the 2009 Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Subject--follows a young Indian girl born with a cleft lip, and her journey to get an operation that will allow her to live a better life. The film...

Thursday May 28, 2009

A 'Buffy' Movie?! (But Without Joss?!)

Apparently there is serious talk about a new big-screen "Buffy" flick! My heart went all a flutter when I read the recent article, ""Buffy the Vampire Slayer," Returning to Big Screen" sent to me by fellow Idol Chatter blogger Kris...

Thursday May 28, 2009

Categories: Television, Video

Inspirational Advice from Dwight Schrute

I saw this Youtube clip from "The Office" on Rainn Wilson's Twitter account and just had to post it here. In it Dunder Mifflin boss Michael Scott asks Dwight Schrute (Rainn Wilson) to answer the question, "What's the most inspiring...

Wednesday May 27, 2009

Will Anyone Be Balanced About Sotomayor?

What a shame. The days of news being reported neutrally, accurately, and fairly are gone. I am so uninspired by tuning into the news networks and President Barack Obama's nomination of Sonia Sotomayor is a clarifying example. What a great...

Tuesday May 26, 2009

Categories: Television

The Real Lesson Behind 'Jon & Kate Plus 8' Season Premiere

The numbers aren't official yet, but undoubtedly last night's much hyped season premiere of "Jon & Kate Plus 8" set ratings records for TLC. But for anyone tuning in who thought that the couple were going to engage in some...

Tuesday May 26, 2009

Categories: Television

Susan Boyle Makes 'Britain's Got Talent' Finals

I guess Britain's infatuation with overnight sensation Susan Boyle isn't over yet. The 47-year old singer who wowed audiences on "Britain's Got Talent" a few weeks ago was back onstage last Sunday for the semi-finals and received another standing ovation...

Friday May 22, 2009

Categories: Movies, Television, Video

Watch Clip: Hallmark's 'Safe Harbor'

In this Hallmark Channel Original Movie, a newly retired couple, played by Treat Williams and Nancy Travis, looking forward to a trip on their boat, are asked a favor by a family friend, which changes their plans. "Safe Harbor" premieres...

Thursday May 21, 2009

10 Military Movies to Celebrate Memorial Day

Memorial Day weekend is upon us, and if this is the year to stay home, I suggest you gather with those you love and watch great war movies. On AMC, John McCain will host a weekend marathon of movies celebrating...

Thursday May 21, 2009

'24' Finale: More Cliffhanger Than Conclusion

After a day or two to reflect--and allow all you TiVO-ers to see the final show--I hope "24" will be back, though I didn't expect to be thinking this as the show entered its final few weeks. You can watch...

Wednesday May 20, 2009

Categories: Television

The Joy of 'Glee'

"Glee" is a show built on cliches--the teacher who will do anything for the kids, the jock who'll give up popularity to pursue his dorky dream, the talented gal who dreams of becoming a star--but the sum of its parts...

Wednesday May 20, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, DVDs, Television

Mom Movie Interview: Jason Dolley of 'Cory in the House' and 'Hatching Pete'

Jason Dolley plays Newt in the Disney Channel's popular series "Cory in the House" and stars in "Hatching Pete," now out on DVD with another family-friendly feature, "Dadnapped." Jason found time to talk to me between finals in his college...

Friday May 15, 2009

The Jolly, 'South Park' Loving Side of the Catholic League's Bill Donahue

The New York Times likes to profile William Donahue, president of the Catholic League, as much as it likes to quote his bombastic attacks on perceived enemies of the church. The ex-marine and one-man Defender of the Faith makes for...

Thursday May 14, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Kate Gosselin: Not Sure if She Believes Jon

Wow! Kate Gosselin drops a bombshell in the latest issue of People Magazine. After all that standing by her man stuff--blaming husband Jon's bad behavior on an inability to deal with newfound celebrity--for the first time, the star of TLC's...

Wednesday May 13, 2009

'Farrah's Story' Airs Friday Night

Reality is setting in for many in the Baby Boomer generation whose former favorite actress and poster girl is battling cancer. What once was vicarious joy is now vicarious pain, as Farrah Fawcett has spent many of her final days...

Tuesday May 12, 2009

The Donald Says Carrie Prejean Not Fired!

CNN (as well as just about every news agency and tabloid under the sun!) is reporting that Miss California USA Carrie Prejean will be allowed to keep her crown, despite the recent controversies surrounding her title, her contest answer to...

Monday May 11, 2009

Categories: DVDs, Movies, Television

Who's the Best Captain Kirk?

Have you seen the newest "Star Trek?" If so, you may want to chime in on Time.com's poll which asks your opinion on the best Enterprise captain of all time. Would you choose William Shatner as Captain Kirk, Patrick Stewart...

Friday May 8, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

More on the Jon Gosselin Alleged Affair

Will it ever end?! The new issue of US Weekly features more information on Jon Gosselin, star of TLC's hit reality show, "Jon & Kate Plus 8," and his alleged affair with Deanna Hummel, the woman whom he was seen...

Friday May 8, 2009

Categories: Television

Womb with a View: An 'Extreme' Mother's Day Special

Not in the mood for the usual Hallmark Hall of Fame fare this Mother's Day? Then check out National Geographic Channel's "In the Womb: Extreme Animals." Astonishing real-time 4D ultrasound images and fetal imaging techniques allow viewers to experience the...

Tuesday May 5, 2009

Miley Cyrus Pledges to Remain Virgin Until Married

"Hannah Montana" star Miley Cyrus has had her share of controvesy over the past year. Cyrus, now 16, posed for what some called "too sexy" photos for Annie Leibovitz and Vanity Fair back in 2008. Plus other personal photos of...

Monday May 4, 2009

Categories: Movies, Pop Culture, Television

The Ten Commandments in the Worlds of 'Star Trek'

Trekkies everywhere are collectively holding their breath in anticipation of J.J. Abrams' ("Lost," "Alias," "Cloverfield") new "Star Trek" film, which hits theaters this Friday. Will the film-- which gives the back stories of James T. Kirk and Spock--be everything they've...

Wednesday April 29, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Is Jon Gosselin Cheating? New Photo Emerges

Things that make you go "Ewww." Reality TV dad and alleged philanderer, Jon Gosselin of TLC's "Jon & Kate Plus 8" is getting sleazier by the day. As I mentioned back in March, Gosselin was reportedly crashing college parties, getting...

Wednesday April 29, 2009

'Family Guy' Clip: Meg and Kirk Cameron

In this funny clip from "Family Guy" Meg, who is sick in bed with the mumps, watches evangelical Christian actor Kirk Cameron talk about God. Check out our video interview with Kirk Cameron....

Tuesday April 28, 2009

'Weeds' Creator, 'Tara' Producer, and the Hebrew Mamita Take on Images of Jewish Women in Media

If you're a consumer of media and you've never met a Jew in real life, you're likely to think all Jewish women are superficial busybodies with New York accents or yiddishe mommas trying to match up their daughters with single...

Tuesday April 28, 2009

A Good Read: 'The Last TV Evangelist'

There's a new book out that may provide some of the most compelling reading in years for those who are interesting in spirituality, pop culture, and faith-based television. "The Last TV Evangelist" is authored by Phil Cooke, a veteran producer...

Friday April 24, 2009

Miss California Appears at the Dove Awards

Miss California, Carrie Prejean, may have lost the Miss USA title for explaining her opposition to same-sex marriage, but it looks like she's gained a new gig as Christian idol. After appearing on Fox News, NBC's "Today" and other talk...

Friday April 24, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Watch Sneak Peek: Michael J. Fox's 'Adventures of an Incurable Optimist'

In an ABC primetime special, actor Michael J. Fox talks about what he's learned in his battle with Parkinson's Disease, what optimism means, and how it's a force in our lives. The special airs Thursday, May 7....

Tuesday April 21, 2009

A '24' Update: Good Drama and Good Questions

As "24" wraps up "Day Seven" and as a matter of business, "Day One" after a writers'-strike-induced 19-month absence from its regular Fox slot, the questions remain: How will this day end? Has the show regained relevance? And, I believe,...

Monday April 20, 2009

Categories: Television, Trends

Jon & Kate Plus Sustainabilit-eight

Just last week I was bemoaning the fact that shows featuring abnormally large families, at least by today's standards, such as "18 Kids and Counting" and "Jon & Kate Plus Eight" are sending irresponsible signals in an era striving for...

Monday April 20, 2009

Adam Lambert Sings...in Hebrew

America loves Adam Lambert. As well they should, because the dude has serious stage presence and amazing vocal range and energy. But what many "Fanberts" (I'm coining that phrase now) might not have known is that he can also take...

Friday April 17, 2009

Categories: Music, Television

Susan Boyle's Makeover

As was to be expected, now that overnight singing sensation Susan Boyle has won over the hearts of the "Britain's Got Talent" judges--as well as almost anyone who's seen her performance--many are speculating that the show's producers are going to...

Thursday April 16, 2009

Categories: Television

Inside TV's Best 50 Dramas

AOL's Inside TV has announced its choices for the "50 Best TV Dramas Ever." Which would you choose? From "House" at #50 to "The Sopranos" at #1, the popular blog scoured the decades and actually accomplished a rare task, in...

Wednesday April 15, 2009

Susan Boyle Stuns 'Britain's Got Talent' Audience and Even Simon Cowell

The evening and morning news shows--as well as 5 million YouTube viewers--are abuzz over a lesson we all need to learn. And the first live audience was enthusiastically willing to do so, as their judgmental laughter and eye-rolling turned into...

Wednesday April 15, 2009

What Is Your Favorite Movie of All Time?

Has anyone ever asked you: "What is your #1 favorite movie of all time?" It's a challenge to choose, isn't it? Or maybe for you, it's not. Post yours below if you can think of it. This week, Turner Classic...

Tuesday April 14, 2009

Categories: Television

The Duggars and Environmental Sustainability

It's no surprise that Josh Duggar, the oldest child of Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar's 18 children, and his new wife Anna have taken up the family tradition of being in the family way (the couple announced Anna's pregnancy yesterday)...

Monday April 13, 2009

Easter Made the TV News!

Of all of the Easter traditions on television, I hope a new one was born this past weekend. Easter came to network television, and I hope it continues for years to come. On just about every weekend since the 60's,...

Monday April 13, 2009

Inspiration from the Masters, and Then...

One of the most inspirational and highly watched events of the television sportscasting year took place Sunday, as the Masters beamed out from Augusta to a staggering number of interested homes on Easter. Ratings for the first days of the...

Wednesday April 8, 2009

Categories: Television

'House' Loss is White House's Gain and Offers Valuable Lessons

Apparently the signs pointing to actor Kal Penn's eventual political career were pretty evident: his character in the "Harold and Kumar" series craved White Castle hamburgers and he played a doctor on a show called "House," clearly portending an eventual...

Tuesday April 7, 2009

Categories: Television

10 Ways Passover is Like 'Lost'

This Wednesday night, Jews worldwide will sit down for the Passover seder, an organized meal with a set order of rituals and readings, which are compiled in the Haggadah. At our seders (Jews outside of Israel generally have two), I...

Tuesday April 7, 2009

Categories: Television

Pro/Con Views About New Series: 'Kings'

Given that NBC's new series, "Kings," is lifted straight from the Old Testament, it's more or less a feast for religion scholars and for "religiously minded" folks when it comes to pop culture. Even though we might agree that...

Friday April 3, 2009

Categories: DVDs, Television, Video

Watch Clips: 'VeggieTales: An Easter Carol'

In these three clips from the "VeggieTales: An Easter Carol" DVD, Bob the Tomato, Larry the Cucumber, and an angel named Hope show Uncle Nezzer what Easter is really about. The full movie will be broadcast on the Gospel Music...

Thursday April 2, 2009

Categories: Pop Culture, Television

'Guiding Light' Will Shine No More

The announcement yesterday that CBS cancelled the soap opera after airing over seventy years of shows wasn't a surprise but it certainly is a watershed moment in pop culture. Gone are the days of marketing drama in the afternoon to...

Thursday April 2, 2009

Categories: Television

Review: 'They Killed Sister Dorothy'

We all know that sustainability is a serious issue, but the documentary "They Killed Sister Dorothy" reminds us that it is deadly serious. A Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur nun from Dayton, OH, Dorothy Stang spent 30 years working...

Monday March 30, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

Holy Land D'oh!

Frustrated with the conflict in the Middle East? Wondering if the strife in the region will ever be resolved? Despondent over the fact that Muslims, Jews, and Christians can't agree on anything? Well, don't have a sacred cow, man: one...

Monday March 30, 2009

Categories: Television, Video

Watch Clip: 'Love Takes Wing'

In the new Hallmark TV movie "Love Takes Wing," airing Saturday, April 4, based on the popular book series "Love Comes Softly," Sarah Jones and Haylie Duff stars as two 19th century female doctors who go to a small town...

Friday March 27, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

TV Star Willie Aames Has Garage Sale

Christian actor Willie Aames is apparently in such financial trouble that he did what few celebrities have done before him--held a garage sale, according to the Kansas City Star. The newspaper reported that Aames held the sale at his Olathe,...

Friday March 27, 2009

Categories: Television

'Friday Night Lights' Talks About Sex

"Friday Night Lights" has always been a show that is about so much more than football. Season three has had some great moments and rumor has it that it will be picked up for possibly two more seasons, which is...

Friday March 27, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Movies, Television

Rainn Wilson Says Faith Keeps Him Grounded

Although you probably know him best as hilarious weirdo Dwight Schrute on "The Office," Rainn Wilson's new role is as the voice of evil alien Gallaxhar in the new animated film, "Monsters vs. Aliens" which opens today (see Movie Mom's...

Tuesday March 24, 2009

Categories: Television

Will There Be a Season 5 of 'Jon & Kate Plus 8'?

Last night's finale of the hit TLC reality show "Jon & Kate Plus 8" was pretty much a snore--aside from the last few minutes. Commercial teasers for the finale made it seem like we'd eventually witness a blowout between the...

Monday March 23, 2009

Categories: Television

Frak!: 'Battlestar Galactica' Finale Fails to Satisfy

The season finale of "Battlestar Galactica" aired Friday, March 20. Please note, this review contains spoilers. Several weeks ago I told a friend of mine, half-joking, that it was a good thing "Battlestar Galactica" was coming to an end because...

Monday March 23, 2009

Jay Leno's Entertainment: President Obama!

The economy is tanking. The bailed-out companies are sending seven figure bonuses to their key managers. The banks are barely making it. The public is nervous. How does a President respond? Does he start a train tour? Does he take...

Friday March 20, 2009

Weekend Watching

TV: Battlestar Galactica Frequent readers of "Idol Chatter" will know that I'm a huge "Battlestar Galactica" fan, reveling in its relevance and enjoying its space opera-esque qualities. So, it is with mixed feelings that I anticipate tonight's two-hour series finale....

Friday March 20, 2009

Ted Haggard and Wife to Appear on 'Divorce Court'

As the death of his career continues, Ted Haggard just keeps moving toward the light--the television light. Since he admitted to homosexual acts and stepped down as pastor of a Colorado megachurch and as president of the National Association of...

Wednesday March 18, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Music, Television

LeAnn Rimes Cheating on Husband, Magazine Claims

And more of this month in Christian celebrity infidelity... First Jon Gosselin and now LeAnn Rimes? According to US Weekly, married singer Rimes is having an affair with married actor Eddie Cibrian, whom she met on the set of a...

Tuesday March 17, 2009

Categories: Television

Big Trouble for 'Big Love'?

Thus far, "Big Love" has gone to great lengths to distance their storyline-- a polygamous marriage in Utah-- from the Mormon faith. The central characters, the Henricksons, don't refer to themselves as Mormons, and even the throwback sect at Juniper...

Monday March 16, 2009

Categories: Television

Liked the Premier of 'Kings'? Interview with Michael Green

I'm hooked on NBC's "Kings" just from the premier, so I've been searching around for new and interesting tidbits about the show and its future--especially on the religion front. So if you're loving the show like me, don't miss this...

Wednesday March 11, 2009

Mandisa Gaining Success, Losing Weight

In a new article on CNN, "American Idol" finalist and Christian music star Mandisa talks about her weight loss (75 pounds and counting) and her new album, "Freedom" which hits stores March 24. She says she has forgiven "Idol" judge...

Monday March 9, 2009

Categories: Television

NBC's New 'Kings': Could Be Epic!

"It's not popular to speak of God," utters Ian McShane's character, King Silas Benjamin, as he addresses the people of Gilboah in the opening minutes of the premier of "Kings"--a show that, if it's about anything, it's about God. Silas...

Monday March 9, 2009

Categories: Pop Culture, Television, Trends

Dora's Disappointing Makeover

Here is the opening paragraph of a new press release: Mattel, Inc. (NYSE:MAT) and Nickelodeon/Viacom Consumer Products (NVCP), announced today that Dora the Explorer™ is growing up! The companies have introduced a whole new way to look at Dora for...

Friday March 6, 2009

Categories: Pop Culture, Television

'Meshugene Men': A Purim Parody

You might have to be a die hard "Mad Men" enthusiast to appreciate this new video parody, in which ad execs at a Jewish firm try to come up with a campaign to market mayonnaise to Jews. There's lots of...

Wednesday March 4, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Jon Gosselin of 'Jon & Kate Plus 8' Allegedly Cheating on Wife

Say it ain't so! Star Magazine is reporting that Jon Gosselin, star of the hit TLC reality show, "Jon & Kate Plus 8" may be cheating on his wife. According to the Magazine, Jon--who along with Kate and the rest...

Wednesday March 4, 2009

Categories: Television

Shame on Me for Watching 'The Bachelor: After the Final Rose'

Oh, the guilt, shame, and humiliation that comes with sinking to a new low. No, I am not talking about that despicable rascal Jason Mesnick, aka ABC's latest manifestation of "The Bachelor." Proving that all of the other dreamboat bachelors...

Tuesday March 3, 2009

Is '24' Over the Top or a Timely Warning?

Last night's "24" went where no television show has gone before. Senators' staffs being run by undercover terrorists. An international dictator leading commandos into battle in Washington. A firefight in the White House. It bordered on the thin line between...

Friday February 27, 2009

Categories: Television

Mark and Olly in the Amazon: Must-See TV

So it's Sunday night around 10 p.m. and you're looking for something to watch because Dexter" and "True Blood" are on hiatus. I suggest you turn to the Travel Channel and check out "Mark & Olly: Living with the...

Friday February 27, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Jade Goody, Reality TV Star: Dying with Dignity

You may not have heard of British reality TV star Jade Goody, best known for her appearances on the UK Big Brother series, but she is now inspiring writers from Time Magazine to the New York Times to pick...

Friday February 27, 2009

Zzzzzzz: Time for March Madness!

Bring on March Madness--we need it! For a competitive guy like me--and Paul the Apostle competed so I know it's a good trait--this is a lousy time of the year to watch television. There's not a lot of drama. There's...

Friday February 27, 2009

Obama's Reality Show

Wow, talk about reality TV! Earlier this week, President Obama was on every network. He was Must See TV 2.0, the Rock Star of the campaign trail, the Teleprompter-in-Chief, "No Drama Obama" who is no longer running for office. He...

Thursday February 26, 2009

Twitter Is Everywhere--Even on My TV!

A new force seems to be taking over the airwaves: Twitter! I viewed three morning shows earlier this week and they all invited the audience to join their "Twitter" page throughout the show. Celebrities at the Oscars weren't supposed to,...

Wednesday February 25, 2009

Categories: Pop Culture, Television

'Little (Musical) House on the Prairie': Melissa Gilbert as Ma Ingalls

As a child, I was pretty obsessed with all things "Little House on the Prairie"-- all of the Laura Ingalls Wilder books, and of course the TV show, which explored the life of a Christian family living in Minnesota and...

Wednesday February 25, 2009

Categories: Movies, Television

12 Movie Jesuses for Ash Wednesday

So Fat Tuesday may be over and fasting has begun, but that doesn't mean you can't indulge in a little Ash Wednesday, um, gawk-fest. In honor of today's Christian holiday, Entertainment Weekly has a Jesus Photo Retrospective of sorts for...

Tuesday February 24, 2009

Categories: Television

David vs. Goliath on 'Kings': NBC's New Must-See-TV Show

Recently, I was lucky enough to get a sneak peek at NBC's 2-hour premier of "Kings"--a new television series that begins on March 15th. "Kings" is not only epic in feel and style, but its storyline takes up an epic...

Monday February 23, 2009

Oscar Night's Spiritual Moments

The Oscars is one of the most inspiring nights of the year when the ceremony is done well, and I'm not sure I can remember one done better than last night's event. It was quick, witty, fresh and, interestingly enough,...

Thursday February 19, 2009

Categories: Television, Video

Watch Trailer for NBC's Upcoming TV Series 'Kings'

"Kings"--which has the tagline "hope lies in bravery"--is a modern-day retelling of the biblical story of King David, where a young heroic soldier (Chris Egan) dethrones a corrupt monarch (Ian McShane) to become the king of powerful city. The series...

Wednesday February 18, 2009

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Interview: Kate Gosselin of 'Jon & Kate Plus 8' on Raising 8 Kids

Kate Gosselin, star of TLC's hit reality show, "Jon & Kate Plus 8" recently spoke to Beliefnet about raising a large family on a budget, how she deals with sibling rivalry, and the one thing she's dreading about her...

Friday February 13, 2009

The Fray: Nothing Lost in Their Second Album

It makes sense that, when young Christian rockers began to struggle free of the mannered CCM format, they would gravitate toward emo, the brooding, melodic rock genre that trades punk's teenage angst for teenage "issues." Exhibit A: The Fray, a...

Wednesday February 11, 2009

Last Word on the Grammys: The Scandal of the Christian Categories

Who would get your Grammy for best rock song: L'il Wayne, Springsteen, Beck, Brad Paisley or Mary J. Blige? What, you say these artists have nothing to do with one another in terms of genre, audience, or even sales? Why...

Wednesday February 11, 2009

Categories: Television

Joss Whedon's 'Dollhouse' Premiers Friday: Is it Set Up to Fail?

Given that I am a diehard "Buffy" fan, "Angel" fan, and make that "Firefly" fan, too, I'll watch anything courtesy of their creator, Joss Whedon. So, like other cult followers of the talented Mr. Whedon, I've long and eagerly awaited...

Monday February 9, 2009

Decent Duets Can't Lift Pall Over Grammys

I'm a music lover, and believe it can bring so much inspiration in times of trials and challenges. And music of faith is as wonderful as it is essential. And so it is that I was disappointed during most of...

Monday February 9, 2009

Categories: Music, Pop Culture, Television

God and Sinners at the Grammys

Still in the early going, the Grammys telecast has a savvy mix of blasphemy and gospel going. Notice how Kid Rock dressed as a parson and sang "Rock and Roll Jesus," followed (after a palate cleanser of pure spun sugar...

Thursday February 5, 2009

Categories: Books, Television

Your Kids' Daily Minimum Requirement of Scripture

There are some great books out there to introduce your kids to Christian Bible stories. But how to get your kids to make the leap from books of Bible stories or children's Bibles to the real thing? You won't be...

Wednesday February 4, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

Kate Gosselin of 'Jon & Kate Plus 8' on the Octuplet Mom and Raising a Family on a Budget

Of course, as soon as news broke last week that California woman Nadya Suleman gave birth to octuplets, media outlets scrambled to talk to TV's most famous mother of multiples, Kate Gosselin of the hit TLC show, "Jon & Kate...

Friday January 30, 2009

Categories: Television

Super Bowl Ads -- Not Family Friendly?

Many families have Super Bowl traditions as the generations gather around the television to watch the biggest football game of the year. It gives families a wonderful opportunity to share their interests and histories and to talk about the skill,...

Friday January 30, 2009

Categories: Television

'Sober House': Sobering Viewing

I thought I would never ever see a more horrifying example of addiction than "Grease's" Jeff Conaway on "Celebrity Rehab, " vacillating between mindlessly drooling on himself and screaming like a banshee at no one in particular while withdrawing from...

Friday January 30, 2009

Categories: Sports, Television

Hutt, Hutt, Hype!: The Best Ways to Enjoy Super Bowl Sunday

Yes, the Super Bowl is here! That also means that the Super Bowl Ads are here, the Super Bowl halftime show is here, the extended Super Bowl pre-game and post-game shows are here and, thankfully, the Athletes in Action Super...

Wednesday January 28, 2009

The Oscars: More Than a Two-Horse Race

This year's Best Picture Oscar is a competitive field. The media likes to paint it as a two-person or two-film race in many categories, but it may be one of those years in which many films have a chance. Some...

Wednesday January 28, 2009

A Lesson in Patience: VeggieTales' 'Abe and the Amazing Promise'

Lately VeggieTales releases come in two kinds, the inspired and the merely inspiring. The latest VeggieTales release, "Abe and the Amazing Promise," due out February 10, fulfills the promise of every VT production: to get some Bible knowledge into your...

Tuesday January 27, 2009

My Top 12 Super Bowl Moments

Next week's Super Bowl marks what has become something of a national holiday. New TV sales go through the roof, parties are found on every other block and open seats are available on flights! Bruce Springsteen will perform. Alicia Keys...

Monday January 26, 2009

Categories: Movies, Television

Are People Loving 'Loving Leah'?

Before "Loving Leah" even Sunday night in California, the east coast calls began. The first call came from my parents. "I hope you're watching this," they said. I had plans, I told them, and wouldn't be home for it. Then...

Monday January 26, 2009

S.A.G.'s Win in Award Show Race

The Screen Actors Guild Awards are not the most popular nor are they the highest rated award shows to be broadcast on TV. The Golden Globes kick off the season and the Academy Awards bring the conclusion, as well as...

Monday January 26, 2009

The S.A.G. Tribute to Actors We Lost...

The most spiritually compelling moment of the Screen Actors Guild Awards came when the Guild paid tribute to those who'd lost their lives since the last gathering. Susan Sarandon shared a very nice tribute to the actors who've passed, and...

Friday January 23, 2009

Categories: Television

Bang-up 'Battlestar': 'Galactica' Returns with Stellar Premiere

To say that the final season of "Battlestar Galactica" began with a bang is an understatement: the crew discovers that residual radiation from a nuclear holocaust makes Earth uninhabitable; despondent, Dee shoots herself; and Ellen Tigh is revealed to be...

Friday January 23, 2009

Categories: Movies, Television

Sigourney Weaver Stars in 'Prayers for Bobby'

It's not often that I am tempted to watch a Lifetime Original movie, but tomorrow night is the premier of "Prayers for Bobby": "Sigourney Weaver stars in this emotional true story about a 1970s religious suburban housewife and mother who...

Friday January 23, 2009

Categories: Television

'FNL': The Best Feminist Drama on Television

Sure, I have already written about the spiritual themes, the social issues, and the family values of NBC's best drama, "Friday Night Lights." But watching the season three premiere of the show last week, I had a small revelation: For...

Friday January 23, 2009

Categories: Television

'Lost' Thoughts

As I watched the season premiere of "Lost" Wednesday night on ABC, it occurred to me that all of pop culture's flash forwards and flashbacks (done masterfully here, in my opinion, as well as in "Damages" and other shows) owe...

Thursday January 22, 2009

Oscar Nominations and Omissions

Oscar season has formally begun as the nominations were announced today by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The full line-up and more info can be found at at Oscars.com and commentary will be all over the Net....

Thursday January 22, 2009

Categories: Television

'Lost' Season 5 Premiere: It's (Not) All About Change

Perhaps I have the presidential inauguration and President Obama on my mind, but the word "change" was easily the keyword of last night's two-hour "Lost" premiere. For two hours, the stories shifted back-and-forth in time and locale, much the...

Thursday January 22, 2009

Categories: Television

'Lost' Is Back and I'm, Well, Lost

So last season I stopped watching "Lost" a few episodes from the end because I got bored. I was especially tired of the flashbacks. (I was to the point where I'd just fast forward through them--am I alone on this...

Wednesday January 21, 2009

What, the Grammys?

The poor Grammys have a tough road. (If you don't know what the Grammys are, then that will prove my point even further!) January is a pop culture tour de force, complete with the Golden Globe Awards, the launch of...

Tuesday January 20, 2009

Be Inspired by History TV

If you've got some people together--or just have the TV on--and the Inauguration events are getting boring, check out "History in the Making Week" on The History Channel. If they'd have taught history like this in school, I'd have been...

Tuesday January 20, 2009

President Obama, the Rock Star!

President Obama is a rock star! He and his family have shown up at more parties, events, gatherings, celebrations, fundraisers and other pre-Inauguration activities than movie stars on Oscar night. And the cameras have been there. Therefore, this may be...

Tuesday January 20, 2009

The Must-est 'Must-See-TV' Ever!

From a television--and pop culture-- point of view this has been one of the longest, dramatic, and most entertaining Presidential races of all time. And it comes to an end today with the swearing in of Barack H. Obama as...

Friday January 16, 2009

Categories: Television

Returning to the 'Real World'

When I heard that there would be a "cool" Mormon house on the newest incarnation of MTV's "The Real World" -- "The Real World: Brooklyn"-- I thought that the network theat brought us so many reality show cliches had finally...

Thursday January 15, 2009

Categories: Television

'FNL' Returns to Its Roots Friday on NBC

Though it is extremely frustrating that the "Friday Night Lights" season finale has already aired this week on DirecTV, for the rest of us, the Dillon Panthers finally return to play football tomorrow night on NBC after too long of...

Wednesday January 14, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

'American Idol' Bikini Girl Edition

It was the moment millions of households had been waiting for. The moment when every Joe the Plumber and Jane Doe gets to play judge with the lives of people who are strangely certain that they are meant to be...

Tuesday January 13, 2009

Categories: Television

'Numb3rs': An FBI Procedural Explores Faith from Many Angles

Lately, I've become addicted to the kind of television subgenre known as the "procedural"--which is basically a show like "NCIS," "Criminal Minds," and "Fringe," that yes, has ongoing story arcs, but mainly turn on an episode by episode, crime-solving scenario....

Monday January 12, 2009

Categories: Entertainment, Television

'24' is Back...Finally!

"24's" new season starts with two full-speed car crashes, the scary kidnapping of a dad in front of his daughter, Keifer Sutherland's weathered but tan Jack Bauer on trial before Congress for his actions during the prior seasons, a heroic...

Monday January 12, 2009

Thoughts from The Golden Globes

Fresh thoughts while my bride (of 23 years) and I watched the 65th Golden Globes, live from the same Beverly Hilton ballroom as our Senior Prom... The simple beauty of an awards show that sits friends with each other around...

Monday January 12, 2009

Thoughts from The Golden Globes Red Carpet

Fresh thoughts while my family and I are watching these stars, fashions and Red Carpet interviews which have become the first part of the Golden Globe Awards' Doubleheader... The pre-show is really as much of a show as the show;...

Wednesday January 7, 2009

Categories: Television

'True Beauty' a Tad Beastly

Maybe it's the current melancholic climate in the country, but I found "Superstars of Dance," NBC's Eurovision-esque dance competition, to be far more engaging Monday night than the "inner beauty pageant" of "True Beauty." Now I have nothing against the...

Wednesday January 7, 2009

Categories: Television, Video

Watch Exclusive 'The Walton's' Clip: 'What Would You Do?'

Watch this exclusive clip from "The Walton's: Season 8" DVD, where the narrator Earl Hamner, whose family the hit show was based on, talks about how the show celebrated values in American life....

Tuesday January 6, 2009

Steve James of 'At the Death House Door'

Last spring I wrote about the superb documentary At the Death House Door when I interviewed its subject, Pastor Carroll Pickett, who served 15 years as the death house chaplain to the infamous "Walls" prison unit in Huntsville. The film...

Monday January 5, 2009

Categories: Television

ABC Television's 'True Beauty'

Ahh, the new year! Time for new hopes, new resolutions and a whole new season of reality TV. I've already sampled VH-1's "Confessions of a Teen Idol"--wherein former hearthrobs such as "Baywatch's" David Chokachi and "The Blue Lagoon's" Christopher Atkins...

Monday January 5, 2009

The Palladia Channel: TV's Best-Kept Secret

One of the most raw and inspiring concert performers of our time is Bruce Springsteen, and one of the most recognizably tight bands of all time is his E Street Band. As such, tickets to the concerts are expensive...

Monday December 29, 2008

Categories: Television

Belated Festivus Greetings...and TV Disappointments

December 23 was the imaginary holiday, Festivus, created on that infamous "Seinfield" episode where Frank Costanza invents the annual ceremony of telling your loved ones how they have disappointed you in the previous months.  Alan Sepinwall over at the Star-Ledger...

Monday December 22, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Dixie Carter's Christmas Memories

By Dixie Carter All my childhood Christmases are memorable and dearer than can be expressed, and after childhood my young adult memories of Christmas are playing in the snow outside the house with my brother Hal and his bride Margo,...

Monday December 22, 2008

Best Christmas Movie Moments on DVD: Part Two

Kris Rasmussen is certainly one of Idol Chatter's best bloggers, and her "Best Holiday Moments in Film" article is worth reading if you're a fan of Christmas movies, blogs, and/or blogs about Christmas movies. We all of have own tastes,...

Monday December 22, 2008

Categories: Movies, Television

Period of Adjustment

Tennessee Williams' only comedy is this neglected gem of a movie about two couples at Christmas. It has never been available on DVD so your only chance to see it is December 23 on Turner Classic Movies. It stars a...

Thursday December 18, 2008

How Much Do You Know About Christmas Cartoons?

If your heart has ever swelled with the Grinch's, or ached to see Rudolph snubbed by that reindeer clique, then you'll love this Beliefnet quiz on Christmas cartoons How did you do? Which Christmas cartoons are your favorite? Discuss below....

Thursday December 18, 2008

Categories: Television, Video

Watch Clip: 'The Office' Gift Wrapped Desk

In this funny clip from "The Office," Jim shows off his gift wrapping skills....

Wednesday December 17, 2008

Best Quotes of the Year: Where's the Inspiration?

America Online recently reported its annual list of Top Ten Quotes of the Year, as named by Fred R. Shapiro. I found the list to be somewhat entertaining, partially nostalgic but, most of all, quite less than inspiring. Tops on...

Monday December 15, 2008

Categories: Television

Demand 'Britz' on BBC America

Lost in the hustle and bustle of this past Thanksgiving holiday was one of the most riveting post 9/11, and in this case post 7/7, dramas made to date, "Britz." This thriller follows the lives of Sohail and Nasima, a...

Thursday December 11, 2008

Categories: Television

Assisted Suicide Aired on British Television

For a culture commonly stereotyped as prim and proper, the British have always managed to push the envelope when it comes to thought-provoking, controversial documentaries--think Channel 4's 2002 airing of a live--albeit delayed--autopsy before a paying London audience. Sky Television...

Wednesday December 10, 2008

'Frost/Nixon': Entertainment, History and Some Work

While it doesn't open in wide release until Friday, I had a chance to see "Frost/Nixon" out in Los Angeles last week and I can't recommend it enough--for adults who remember the time but who can now reflect on history...

Tuesday December 9, 2008

Categories: Books, Television

Kate Gosselin of 'Jon & Kate Plus 8' Shares Her Favorite Christmas Traditions

Thought you had it tough raising your kids? Try raising 8! On the hit TLC TV show "Jon & Kate Plus 8," we see married couple Jon and Kate Gosselin go through the daily struggles--and, of course, the daily joys--of...

Tuesday November 25, 2008

Categories: Television

'Pushing Daisies' Cancelled - Along With Two Other ABC Shows

After weeks of speculation, the whimsical drama "Pushing Daisies"--along with "Eli Stone" and "Dirty Sexy Money"--was officially cancelled last week. In spite of numerous Emmy nominations and critical praise, the series about a pie maker who can bring people back...

Monday November 24, 2008

Welcome Back, '24'

Imagine the expectations when one of the most popular--and one of the most inspiring--television shows returns to the air for the first time in more than a year and a half. I mean, that's a lot of time for creativity...

Friday November 21, 2008

Categories: Television

3 Reasons To Watch '24: Redemption'

While I was once a fan of the action drama "24" the first couple of seasons, I got tired of the show's premise with its increasingly convoluted storylines. Don't worry--fellow Idol Chatter blogger Doug Howe has continued to watch---and...

Friday November 21, 2008

Categories: Television

Colbert's TV Special Is an Early Christmas Gift

Comedy Central's Stephen Colbert is turning his wry wit toward Christmas. His comedy special, "A Colbert Christmas" airs this Sunday at 10 p.m. and it will skewer the festivities of the season before the season's really begun. As Colbert points...

Friday November 21, 2008

A New Poll Shows: Hollywood 'Attacks' Religion!

Hollywood is a conspiracy, all right. Movies tell the same stories over and over again, Hollywood thinking that we won't notice if the movies show ogres or animals fall in love and live happily ever after, or that the...

Tuesday November 18, 2008

Categories: Entertainment, Television

Sookie vs. Bella: Role Model Smackdown

I must admit that I resisted reading the "Twilight" series until a school librarian friend of mine informed me that I absolutely had to read at least the first book before the movie opening. So, being a dutiful friend and...

Monday November 17, 2008

Categories: Television, Trends

HBO's 'True Blood': Exorcisms, Salvation, Kinky Sex, Depravity--What Next?

As anyone who reads my posts on Idol Chatter knows, I'm a huge vampire fan (gigantic even!). That's why I post so much about Stephenie Meyer's "Twilight Series" and the forthcoming Twilight movie (this Friday! I'm counting down...), and that's...

Thursday November 13, 2008

'American Idol' Suicide: Don't Blame the Show

Tuesday evening an obsessive Paul Abdul fan, Paula Goodspeed, committed suicide by drug overdose, in front of the "American Idol" judges' home. Goodspeed, who had tried out for the hit reality show before---and was completely panned by Simon, Randy, and...

Wednesday November 12, 2008

Interview: Phylicia Rashad of 'The Cosby Show'

One of my all-time favorite television moms was Phylicia Rashad as the ever-capable, ever-glamorous, ever-wise, and ever-beautiful Clair Huxtable, lawyer, mother of five, and wife of the ever-bemused Cliff Huxtable. It was a joy to speak with her about this...

Tuesday November 11, 2008

Obama Documentary Bought by HBO

Since his trip to Africa in 2006, Barack Obama had someone hot on his tail: Edward Norton's Class 5 Films production company, which had been following Obama on the campaign trail of what became his successful run for U.S. President....

Friday November 7, 2008

Categories: Entertainment, Television

Being a 'Witness to Jonestown'

During the presidential campaign many conservative pundits spoke about people "drinking the Democrat Kool-Aid." (And perhaps there were pundits talking about Republican Kool-Aid, I just didn't witness it.) So, it's eerily apropos that the 30th anniversary of the Jonestown massacre...

Friday November 7, 2008

Election P.S.: Don't Quit Campaigning!

One of the more inspiring storylines to this year's election cycle was the large number of people who went to the polls. And one of the driving forces behind that was the large amount of non-news channel coverage of the...

Wednesday November 5, 2008

Michael Crichton, Noted Author, Dies of Cancer

According to a recent CNN report, author Michael Crichton has died in Los Angeles, "unexpectedly, after a courageous and private battle against cancer." He was 66. To some book-lovers, Michael Crichton was known as the six-foot, nine-inch tall author of...

Tuesday November 4, 2008

The Real Reason Obama Wins

48 years ago, there was a national Presidential debate between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon. Those who heard it on the radio believed that Nixon won. Those who saw it on TV hailed Kennedy as the winner. Kennedy then...

Tuesday November 4, 2008

Palin to Tina Fey: Keep the 'Sarah' Outfit

If Sarah Palin's recent shout out to the well-liked TV comedy star who portrays her on Saturday Night Live is any indication, the VP candidate must be feeling pretty confident about her chances of serving her country. At a...

Friday October 31, 2008

Top Five Media Masquerades

Halloween gives the young (and the young at heart!) a chance to dress up, play a role, wear a mask, and be something or someone they're not. For a day. That's the key. On this Halloween, I've assembled a...

Thursday October 30, 2008

Top 10 Wily, Wonderful, and Wicked Witches

Starting with the biblical and ending with the bizarre, here's my list of top 10 witches in pop culture: 1. The Witch of Endor. Star Wars fans are scratching their heads at this one, trying to figure out how...

Thursday October 30, 2008

'The Simpsons' Spoof 'Mad Men' for Halloween

I don't regularly watch the Simpsons anymore, but I wish I did. Especially during Halloween, a time when the rest of the airwaves are polluted with Halloween movie series, and there's not a thing on TV that doesn't involve ghosts,...

Thursday October 30, 2008

Categories: Television

The 'Ghost Hunters' Halloween Special

Although I absolutely love to scare myself--usually with horror movies--ghosts have always been at the top of my list of "Things That Almost Make Me Pee in My Pants in Fear." Sci-Fi Channel's "Ghost Hunters" always gives me a...

Thursday October 23, 2008

Categories: Television

Must See MTV and VH-1: 'A Night for Vets' and 'Celebrity Rehab'

Several days ago, while watching coverage of the election, I began reminiscing about the days of Tabitha Soren. Remember when MTV's coverage of Presidential elections was seen as innovative and important? When Soren asked probing questions of the candidates and...

Wednesday October 22, 2008

'SNL' and The 'Palin Effect'

If John McCain is photographed holding up a "Dewey Defeats Truman" headline on Election Night in two weeks, pundits and media talking heads across the country will no doubt point to the invisible "Obama Factor" as the reason for why...

Monday October 20, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Television

The Gospel According to Ricky Gervais?

I have long said that it is always a good idea here at Idol Chatter to have a favorite celebrity atheist. Mine used to be Kathy Griffin, but after reading an article over at Image Magazine, I'm thinking about making...

Thursday October 16, 2008

Pam Grier's Spiritual Chat with Beliefnet

Pam Grier, that oh-so-cool 70s icon that you may now see on "Law & Order: SVU" and "The L Word," is also starring in a new Hallmark Channel TV movie on Saturday called "Ladies of the House." The movie is...

Friday October 10, 2008

Watch 'Family Guy' Clip: Jesus on Jay Leno

Anyone catch the hilarious episode of "Family Guy" last Sunday, featuring a record store-working Jesus Christ a a guest star? Check out a clip below....

Thursday October 9, 2008

Where's the Faith?

During these troubled times, with prime-time TV dominated by news channels, I wish there would be more mention of our nation's history of turning to God in times of trouble. I've scanned The History Channel, PBS, CNN, FoxNews, CNBC...and I...

Wednesday October 8, 2008

Categories: Politics, Television

The Three Debate Goofs

Man, what a drag! I like writing positive posts and wanted to say something great about last night's debate. I suppose we could say that it was civil, and perhaps we could say that no fights broke out, and perhaps...

Tuesday October 7, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Kristen Chenoweth Makes a Beautiful Nun on 'Pushing Daisies'

I'm happy to report that one of my favorite new television shows from last year, "Pushing Daisies," is back for its second season and quirky as ever (Wednesdays, 9 p.m., ABC). In addition to the usual, madcap fun of Ned...

Monday October 6, 2008

Categories: Television

'Heroes' Gets Religion and Goes Down Hill

I've broken up with television shows before. The most painful in my memory was "The Sopranos"--a show I adored, but could no longer watch at the end of its fifth season because it had gotten so brutal. With J. J....

Monday October 6, 2008

Categories: Television

'Dexter,' Doubt, and the Divine

Everyone's favorite serial killer with a conscience, Dexter Morgan, returned to television last weekend with killer ratings, but the season three opener didn't exactly slay me. If it sounds funny that a drama about a forensic blood spatter specialist-cum-serial killer...

Thursday September 25, 2008

Why Were Bristol and Jamie Lynn Treated So Differently?

Celebrity, whether in the political or entertainment sphere, usually means relinquishing control over the message of who you are and what you're about. Members of the media smell a story and run with it, sometimes despite the truth of the...

Wednesday September 24, 2008

Clay, Lindsay, Ellen, Lance, and Brad: The Week in Gay News

With Lindsay Lohan officially announcing that she's been dating Samantha Ronson for "a very long time" and Clay Aiken (finally) coming out in his most recent feature story in People, it might be time to look at the week in...

Tuesday September 23, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Miley and Billy Ray to Say 'Hasta Manana" to Hannah Montana?

Miley Cyrus and father Billy Ray Cyrus have apparently expressed a desire to exit the Disney show that made Miley's millions and redeemed her Achy Breaky Daddy from one-hit wonderland, TMZ recently learned. The popular entertainment gossip website broke the...

Monday September 22, 2008

Categories: Television

'Sarah Connor Chronicles': Monotheism's Favorite One-Hour Drama?

Ginia Bellafonte devoted considerable ink to exploring the religious dimensions of Fox's "Sarah Connor Chronicles" on the front page of this Sunday's New York Times fall television section. About to head into its third episode of season two tonight (Monday),...

Monday September 22, 2008

My Emmy Highlights and Lowlights

The Emmys is my least favorite award show to watch, mainly because the nominating process is tainted, and rarely do shows that the general public enjoys ever win, much less receive a nomination. But while some are calling last night's...

Friday September 19, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Oprah Liberates Saudi Women

"I have my coffee, and I sit and watch Oprah," a woman tells The New York Times in a story today. "It's my favorite time of day." Not exactly front-page news you say? The woman in question is a Saudi,...

Tuesday September 16, 2008

Categories: Television, Video

Watch Clip: 'The Banana Splits'

Do you feel there's not enough wholesome kids' entertainment on TV these days? Have no fear--'The Banana Splits' is full of cute, funny jokes and songs that will entertain your little ones and not drive you crazy. embedVideo(1799063618);...

Tuesday September 16, 2008

Stephen Baldwin Promoting 'Gossip Girl'? Not...

In ad campaigns for the drama's current season, "Gossip Girl" has embraced its seamy side, using quotes from negative reviews as positives to attract viewers to the sex-ridden show. Now a new review, by actor and vocal Christian Stephen Baldwin,...

Thursday September 11, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Television

'90210' Actress Now Woman of the Cloth

Which '90210' actress, now reprising her role in the new series, gives sermons on Sundays? While many of us might like the story that would result if the answer had been "Shannen Doherty," the real answer is Ann Gillespie, who...

Thursday September 11, 2008

Jon Voight and Adam Sandler to Attend Chabad Telethon

When you think Chabad, the religious Jewish outreach organization that creates Jewish community centers in various places all over the world, you probably think about one name...Jon Voight. You don't? Well, you should, and you will, since Voight--a Catholic--has been...

Monday September 8, 2008

Categories: Entertainment, Television

MTV VMAs: Defending the 'Sluts'

Twenty-five years ago Madonna opened up the very first MTV Video Music Awards with a now iconic rendition of her smash hit "Like a Virgin." And, yet, you would have never known it from last night's 25th anniversary VMAs where...

Monday September 8, 2008

O'Reilly Hosts Obama; Oprah Denies Palin

Two big names in the news-talk-entertainment business sent two surprising and completely different signals over the last several days. Oprah Winfrey, perhaps the foremost advocate of opportunities for women, says she will not have Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin on...

Monday September 8, 2008

'True Blood': Does God Really Hate Vampires?

Not according to me! I am happy to announce that HBO's "True Blood" is finally here--and I eagerly watched the premiere episode, "Strange Love," last night. My thoughts so far (and surely there will be more to come): 1) The...

Monday September 8, 2008

'Gossip Girl': Can Two Wrongs Actually Make a Right?

This weekend I indulged in my new favorite (super) Guilty Pleasure--the season premiere of the CW's "Gossip Girl." (It's also possible I indulged in the new incarnation of "90210" and set up the DVR to tape yet another series premiering...

Friday September 5, 2008

Penn Jillette: A Welcome Change to the Political Discussion

There's a new kind of entertainment journalism emerging these days. Or, should I say that there's a new kind of journalistic entertainment these days? I think it's the former. Penn Jillette--the taller, louder partner of "Penn and Teller"--has written one...

Thursday September 4, 2008

Sarah Palin: Our Culture's Newest Star

Hell hath no fury like the media scorned. And their all-out attack on the woman who could be the new feminist icon for a new generation of young women needs to stop. Or, there just need to be some other...

Thursday September 4, 2008

Prime-Time TV: The 'Diverse' Republicans!

Once every four years, like the Olympics, the National Presidential Nominating Conventions are called to order. The politics is a matter for another blog, but I'd like to comment on the inspiration, entertainment, and excellence that is making this week's...

Tuesday September 2, 2008

Why All the Vampires?

Vampires are really big this year. Breaking Dawn, the fourth volume in Stephanie Meyer's Twilight series was the most eagerly anticipated book since Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. And one of the most popular events at Comic-Con was the...

Friday August 29, 2008

HBO Still Pulling Out All the Stops for 'True Blood' Ad Campaign

Wow. If you ever read my posts you already know that I have a thing for vampires--be they from "Buffy," "Twilight," or the old school "Bram Stoker's Dracula" variety. But it appears that HBO is as excited about vampires as...

Friday August 29, 2008

Categories: Television

CW: 'Of Course We'll Screen 90210 for Advertisers'

Despite initial reports, the CW will offer a glimpse of the new '90210' to potential advertisers: While the CW will not make promotional discs containing individual episodes (also known as "screeners") of its teen drama available to critics or media...

Thursday August 28, 2008

Is Buffy Turning Girls into Witches?

We heard about it with Harry Potter in spades: that J.K. Rowling's beloved series about witches and wizards would somehow corrupt the minds and religious practices of youth all over the world. We heard about it with Philip Pullman, too,...

Thursday August 28, 2008

Categories: Television

Watch Clip: An 'Office' Shunning

In this hilarious montage of clips from an episode of "The Office," Dwight, played by Rainn Wilson, uses the Amish technique of shunning (other religions have versions of shunning as well), against a co-worker, Andy. Watch the video below....

Wednesday August 27, 2008

Categories: Television

Parents Coucil Says 'OMG' to '90210' Reboot

Have New York's Upper East Side rich kids set an impossibly high bar for titillation, or will their West Coast Beverly Hills-dwelling teen counterparts kick their six-packs and bikinis up a notch, making the new "90210" a real contender? When...

Tuesday August 26, 2008

The Conventions: Life Imitates Art

Did you watch the Democratic National Convention on TV Monday night? No. Neither did I. It made me think back to that "West Wing" episode of a few years ago, where the dramatic twist featured all three major television network...

Monday August 25, 2008

Categories: Books, Politics, Television

'Blue Like Jazz' Author Will Pray for the Democrats Tonight

Though I utterly despise the political conventions of any party, I guess I am going to have to watch at least part of the Democratic National Convention tonight out of curiousity. It seems that Donald Miller, author of the spiritual...

Monday August 25, 2008

Categories: Pop Culture, Television

The S.S. Minnow is Back in Shipshape

Anyone for a 3-hour tour? If you get on the S.S. Minnow and the other passengers are a movie star, a professor, a millionaire and his wife, not to mention Mary Ann, you might want to check to make sure...

Monday August 25, 2008

Categories: Television

My Super Sweet 16: 'Exiled' in Teenville

Many years ago, when the first episode of MTV's "My Super Sweet Sixteen" aired, I thought that the network had taken a daring step by reflecting this generation's craven consumerism and narcissism back at them with the depictions of half-a-million...

Friday August 22, 2008

The Gospel According to Oprah (Literally)

It's no secret (ha! I am already making puns) that Oprah Winfrey is many an American's spiritual guide. There is even a book, "The Gospel According To Oprah" by Marcia Z. Nelson, that "praises Oprah for using her entertainment pulpit...

Friday August 22, 2008

Home Makeover: Faith Edition

If Jesus came back today, which television show would be his favorite? A clue comes from Mike Zak, youth director at St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church in St. Charles, Ill. According to the Chicago Tribune, Zak, a fan of "Home...

Wednesday August 20, 2008

'Gossip Girl' Is Back and Badder Than Ever!

Everyone's favorite teen soap opera/guilty pleasure "Gossip Girl" is back, premiering on the CW September 1. And of course, its back with a, well, um, bang (so to speak). GG got itself in heaps of trouble last spring as it...

Tuesday August 19, 2008

Categories: Television

'Mad Men's' Catholic Confessions

It might seem odd to have an episode focused on Easter when it's August, but "Mad Men" is not exactly known for fitting the TV mold. The critically-acclaimed series set in the 60s advertising world usually revels, basks, and otherwise...

Monday August 18, 2008

Categories: Sports, Television

At the Beijing Olympics, the Hijab Emerges

So far, the 2008 Olympics has been all Michael Phelps, Dara Torres, Chinese divers, Liu Xiang bowing out (gasp!), gymnastics, Usain Bolt, Redeem Team, U.S. men's water polo, Kerry Walsh and Misty May-Trainer (this list is getting so long!)...

Friday August 15, 2008

Categories: Sports, Television

Most Uninspiring Olympic Moments

As I'm staying up late and watching coverage of the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, the spirit of the Games has once again taken hold over me: America's Jason Lezak chasing down France's Alain Bernard in the final leg of the...

Thursday August 14, 2008

Categories: Television

Watch Video: Jesus in China

A Frontline World news documentary takes a look at the rise of Christianity in China, from formal government-approved churches to exuberant underground worship houses. Watch the clip below to see how the Chinese are finding ways to praise and worship...

Thursday August 14, 2008

Must-See TV: McCain and Obama at Saddleback Church

Well, if you're tiring of the Olympics, or can't afford the gas to drive to a movie theatre, or can't afford the popcorn after you buy the gas, there'll be a relevant, interesting, and hopefully inspiring show that you can...

Tuesday August 12, 2008

Categories: Sports, Television

Olympics Bring Love to Countries at War

Ah, finally, day 4, and the Olympics have finally officially started for me. Nope, the run-up and the hype didn't do it. Every sports event this side of the World Poker Championships has a big build-up. No, the opening festivities--while,...

Monday August 11, 2008

Bernie Mac: Another 'Done Too Soon'

Add another one, Neil Diamond, to your "Done Too Soon" lyrics: Bernie Mac is gone at 50. Although he rose from a poor upbringing to become a household comedic name, there was always a sense that there was more genius...

Monday August 11, 2008

Steven Curtis Chapman Inspires on Larry King

Earlier this summer, a celebrity's son ran over his daughter in a car. The daughter was killed. The son had to deal with the guilt. And, the celebrity is a Christian singer who is gifted, beloved and above reproach, a...

Monday August 11, 2008

McCain and Obama's Favorite Superheroes

Presumed presidential nominees John McCain and Barack Obama have revealed their favorite pop culture icons, including superheroes, with McCain favoring Batman and Obama, Spider-Man and Batman, according to Reuters. I find myself asking two glaring questions: 1. Was this a...

Friday August 8, 2008

Categories: DVDs, Entertainment, Television

Idol Chatter Triva Answer For This Week

Okay, I admit it, the answer to this week's trivia is really just another chance for me to gush about the best discovery I made all summer long: the TV series "Slings and Arrows," which is available on DVD. When...

Friday August 8, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Movies, Television

From 'Office' Temp to Tarantino's 'Bastard'?

As "The Office"'s "Ryan the temp," we loved him. (Although not as much or uncomfortably as Michael Scott did.) And when he was promoted to corporate, we watched as his confidence was revealed as insecurity. Now, the Hollywood Reporter learned...

Wednesday August 6, 2008

Categories: Pop Culture, Television

This Week's Summer Movie Trivia Question

This week's question is going to be a little tough, but I think readers are up to the challenge. Name the TV angel/ghost (depends on your point of view in this case) who said this: "I know, I've been doing...

Thursday July 31, 2008

Categories: Sports, Television

Most Inspirational Olympic Moments of All Time

If you're an Olympics junkie like me, then you're probably salivating for the Beijing Games to start on August 8, 2008, at 8:08 pm. Every four years I just can't get enough of the Olympics. Everything about the Games gets...

Thursday July 31, 2008

More Vampire News: HBO's 'True Blood' Ad Campaign

Well, when you are finished with "Breaking Dawn" (sniff, sniff--what are we going to do when it's over?), you've gotten through all the Buffy DVD's (which, if you are a vampire fan, are a must), you can tune in this...

Tuesday July 29, 2008

Categories: Television

Arab Soap Opera Showcases Equality in Marriage

Quick! When you think of what married life is in the Middle East, what comes to mind? Women clad in black burkas, abayas (robes), hijabs, and face veils, sticking close to home, raising kids and following the lead of her...

Thursday July 24, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Sherri Shepherd Apologizes to Barbara Walters

Yesterday fellow Idol Chatter blogger Esther posted about Sherri Shepherd's comments in a magazine interview about her painful past-- including having abortions. But, of course, what's making the rounds on the web today is not the part of the interview...

Wednesday July 23, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Shepherd's Pre-Christian Life Included Abusive Relationships, Abortions

Comedian turned "The View" host Sherri Shepherd has had some darkness in her past, including family involvement in drug addiction, and her experience having had casual sex and the resultant "more abortions than I would like to count." She also...

Tuesday July 22, 2008

Categories: Television

The TV Critics Association Press Tour Winds Down

At the Television Critics Association summer press tour in Beverly Hills, the networks trot out their new and returning shows for the press. Days of Q & A are followed by nights of working parties. Edyta Sliwinska and Alec Mazo...

Monday July 21, 2008

Categories: Television

'The Cleaner': Extreme Intervention for the Soul

One of the new summer series on TV is "The Cleaner" on A & E. If you like "The Closer" or "Saving Grace," you will like this series, which premiered last week, about a recovering addict, WIlliam Banks (Benjamin Bratt)....

Tuesday July 15, 2008

Categories: Television

Dispatch from the TV Critics' Association Summer Press Tour

Just beyond the storied pool at the Beverly Hills Hilton, the television networks are busy parading their new shows to the nation's TV critics. Diverse luminaries from Benjamin Braff to Ludacris to Spike Lee, mill around in the halls and...

Monday July 14, 2008

The Passion of Stephen Colbert?!

Esquire Magazine's August 2008 cover is of none other than the king of comedy (at least according to me), Stephen Colbert, posing as a jolly St. Sebastian! St. Sebastian is the Patron Saint of, among many other things, athletes, and...

Friday July 11, 2008

Categories: Celebrities, Television

Watch Exclusive Sneak Peak: 'Family Foreman'

Watch a sneak peak of boxing legend, ordained minister, and "King of the Grills," George Foreman's new reality show, "Family Foreman"--coming soon to TV Land--in which he encourages his 10 children to follow their dreams and be the best at...

Wednesday July 9, 2008

'God's Pottery' and 'Last Comic Standing': Legit About Jesus?

Like fellow Beliefnet writer Joanne Brokaw over at Gospel Soundcheck I have noticed the comedy duo "God's Pottery" who have made it to the finals of "Last Comic Standing." At first, I was simply put off by their over-the-top mannerisms,...

Tuesday July 8, 2008

Categories: Entertainment, Television

'Secret Life of an American Teenager': A Different Perspective

I finally watched episode one of "The Secret Life of an American Teenager," the new, much advertised and talked about television series that premiered on ABC Family last Tuesday. I know my fellow Idol Chatter blogger Kris is rather outraged...

Monday July 7, 2008

Categories: Television

'American Teenager': Hit Ratings for Christian Stereotypes

I ran a preview of "The Secret Life of an American Teenager" last week because I was hopeful it could be an intelligent new summer series. It seems others were equally optimistic because the show debuted to the highest ratings...

Tuesday July 1, 2008

Categories: Television

'American Teenager' Premieres Tonight

From the creative forces behind "7th Heaven" comes 'Secret Life of the American Teenager,' a new drama series about teen angst and family ties. It features Molly RIngwald as - gasp - the mom, not the teenager. Specifically, she's the...

Friday June 27, 2008

Categories: Books, Television

N.T. Wright Talks Heaven on 'The Colbert Report'

Bishop and popular author N.T. Wright recently stopped by "The Colbert Report" to debate the afterlife, once again proving no one does late-night religion better than Colbert. Here's how the discussion went:...

Friday June 27, 2008

Categories: Entertainment, Television

'The Middleman': Gosh-Golly, It's Good!

After reading the New York Times' excellent review of ABC Family's newest quirky, squeaky-clean series, "The Middleman," by Susan Stewart--it's basically an ode--I quickly DVR'd the pilot I missed from last week and set up the cable to catch epsiode...

Thursday June 19, 2008

Categories: Movies, Television

AFI's 10 Top 10s: Romantic Comedies

The American Film Institute's "10 Top 10" show--a three hour Prime Time special earlier this week--named the top ten films in each of ten genres and will give us good discussion fodder for awhile, especially if you're a list person,...

Wednesday June 18, 2008

Categories: Pop Culture, Sports, Television

Celtics' Celebration is a Bleeping Dud

This year's NBA Basketball Finals show was a big Prime Time event for ABC and ESPN. It was scheduled to go up against the other networks on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays for two weeks. It went head-to-head against everything from...

Wednesday June 18, 2008

Gospel Music Channel Creates Original TV Series

As web series and other alternative outlets continue to diversify the media landscape, the Gospel Music Channel has announced that it will create original series programming for the 2008-2009 season. A sketch comedy show called "Comedy Quickies" and drama entitled...

Tuesday June 17, 2008

Top 5 Worst Reality TV Shows Ever

It's easy to complain about the glut of reality TV this summer--"Celebrity Circus," "Wipe Out," "High School Musical: The Series," etc. But then I started thinking about it, and really, reality TV has actually improved--generally speaking--from where it started. Anyone...

Friday June 13, 2008

Why I Walked Out of 'Sex and the City'

After a long-term love affair with the four fabulous ladies of HBO's series, "Sex and the City," like the rest of female America, I was jumping up and down about the movie from the moment New Line announced they were...

Friday June 13, 2008

Categories: Pop Culture, Television

'Little Mosque' Could be Coming to the U.S.

Your friendly neighborhood Canadian mosque could be making its debut soon in the U.S. Perhaps you've never heard of the Canadian hit sitcom, "Little Mosque on the Prairie" developed by Zarqa Nawaz (hailed by Islamica Magazine as one the ten...

Tuesday June 10, 2008

Categories: Television

Top 10 Inspiring TV Fathers

Some TV dads are just buffoons, and others are sterling examples of exactly what not to do, but throughout the years, TV has idealized, even immortalized, the qualities of fatherhood. Just in time for Father's Day, I have put together...

Monday June 9, 2008

Categories: Television

Watch Clip: The SuperDevil on 'Family Guy'

What?! The devil is not the greatest threat to salvation? Watch this funny news report from "Family Guy."...

Tuesday June 3, 2008

Categories: Television

Spurlock Spends Another '30 Days' in Someone Else's Shoes

One of the few reality shows that attempts to do more than humiliate or promise a career is Morgan Spurlock's ("Supersize Me") FX series "30 Days." The third season debuts tonight and continues Spurlock's premise of learning life lessons by...

Friday May 30, 2008

Categories: Television

'Lost' Season Four Finale: Yes, Miracles Do Happen

Yesterday's Season Four finale of "Lost" was a fantastic reminder of how the theme of miracles and destiny will always be a part of the show's mythology. When Jack and Locke began arguing outside "The Orchid" about whether miracles...

Thursday May 29, 2008

Categories: Television

Dunkin Donuts' Terrorism Woes

Advertising is a tricky business, and apparently wearing the wrong scarf can send the message that "This company tolerates and supports terrorist organizations!" Sounds crazy? That's because it is, as exemplified by the Dunkin' Donuts recent pulling of an advertisement...

Friday May 23, 2008

Categories: Television

Video Clip: Lacking Moral Fiber on 'Family Guy'

In this funny clip from "Family Guy," Lois become the church's new organist and tells the family she wants them to start going to church more often....

Thursday May 22, 2008

Categories: Television

'Idol' Ends on a High Note

Having been a David Cook supporter all season, I was biting my nails a lot during last night's two hour "American Idol" finale. There were some great moments (Brooke White dueting with Graham Nash, Jason Castro reprising his lovely performance...

Wednesday May 21, 2008

Categories: Television

Humor and Inspiration on 'Dancing with the Stars'

I love "Dancing with the Stars"--it's a fun, frothy show that always ends up surprising me with some genuinely inspiring and touching moments. This year, my sentimental favorite was Marlee Matlin--the deaf Oscar-winning actress was completely undaunted by the task...

Tuesday May 20, 2008

Categories: Television

Who Should Win 'American Idol'?

After a season full of forgotten lyrics, horrible auditions, restarted songs, and more, "American Idol 7" is down to two contestants: David Cook and David Archuleta. Cook, 25, is a Missouri native who has played in rock bands and nailed...

Tuesday May 20, 2008

Categories: Television

The Evolution of Homer Simpson

Check out this "Simpsons" clip that shows how Homer evolved from a single cell organism into a couch potato....

Thursday May 15, 2008

Categories: Television

Don't Fear 'Reaper''

In a television season stymied by the writers strike, "Reaper" emerged as a rare critical hit for The CW. "Reaper"'s blend of comedy and demonology has echoes of cult hit, "Buffy the Vampire Slayer." But despite rave reviews, "Reaper" remained...

Friday May 9, 2008

Categories: Television

Who Are the Most Memorable Christians on Reality TV?

Check out our hot off the press list of Reality TV's most memorable Christians. Do you agree with our selections? Disagree? Think we're totally crazy? Leave your comments below. We want to know what you think!...

Thursday May 8, 2008

Categories: Television

Watch Clip: 'Muslim-American Comics Come of Age'

From this Sunday's (May 11th, 2008) episode, "Stand Up: Muslim-American Comics Come of Age," part of the "America at a Crossroads" series on PBS:...

Thursday May 8, 2008

Categories: Television

Muslim-American Comics Get Their Humor On

Maysoon Zayid wants Dean Obeidallah to run for U.S. president--it's a personal campaign for her. And if he were to run, he'd have my vote. And if not president, I'd nominate him for hottest (as in funny!) comic out there....

Thursday May 8, 2008

Categories: Television

Top 10 TV Moms

Several years ago, I contributed a piece about the best small-screen mothers on American television to Beliefnet blogger Therese Borchard's delightful book "I Love Being a Mom." For the book, I tried to think of characters, who not only set...

Tuesday May 6, 2008

Categories: Television

Science Meets Religion on 'Numb3rs'

There have been several Fridays home this past semester that have left me watching television all evening, and my newfound interest in "Ghost Whisperer" which is followed up by "Moonlight" has had me pulling a CBS all-nighter and watching "Numb3rs"...

Wednesday April 30, 2008

Categories: Television

'Lost': I Quit

I've watched J.J. Abrams's "Lost" from the very beginning just as faithfully as other devotees. But I have to call it like I see it: the show has deteriorated into a mess of too many plotlines, too many time zones,...

Tuesday April 29, 2008

Categories: Television

Mick's Mortality is Short-Lived on 'Moonlight'

Aww, shucks! Why is it that I am such a sucker (ha!) for all things vampire, no matter how kitschy they get? CBS's "Moonlight" gets more melodramatic by the episode--as does its star vampire Mick St. Johns--but it only makes...

Monday April 28, 2008

Categories: Television

NFL Draft: Booooooring!!

I still don't get the NFL draft as a TV event. But apparently I'm in the minority! "According to the NFL, more people will be watching the draft than the NBA playoffs when the two events are being aired at...

Monday April 28, 2008

Categories: Television

Finally, a Doctor is in the 'House' Again

For me personally, one of the worst side effects of the writers' strike has been the lack of fresh "House' episodes. No other series is so consistently smart, witty, and thought-provoking. On tonight's episode, I will once again able to...

Friday April 25, 2008

Categories: Television

Was Carly Booted from 'Idol' Because of Christians?

This week on "American Idol," contestants sang songs from the canon of music theater genius Andrew Lloyd Webber. The field had been narrowed to six contestants, and each worked one on one with Webber to prepare their song. Carly Smithson,...

Monday April 21, 2008

Categories: Television

Mick Gets Mortal as 'Moonlight' Returns

Humans may fantasize about eternal life, rising from the dead (well, perhaps that's a particularly Christian hope), and the kind of bodily regeneration known only to superheroes and the undead, but Mick St. John, the eighty year old vampire protagonist...

Friday April 18, 2008

Categories: Television

'Ghost Whisperer' Returns Remade with New Episodes

So it's very possible and even highly likely that during the Hollywood writers strike I Netflixed the first two seasons of "Ghost Whisperer." Yup. I did. I confess. It's also very possible and even highly likely that I grew to...

Wednesday April 16, 2008

Categories: Television

Fun with 'The Big 4-0'

What is it about turning 40 that strikes fear into the heart of the typical American? Does the end of one's fourth decade on Earth mark some elusive tipping point; signaling that there is no turning back, that youthful follies...

Wednesday April 16, 2008

Categories: Television

The Dangers of 'Gossip Girl'

In just a few days the CW Network's hottest show "Gossip Girl," will be back on the air. All "Gossip Girl" fans and closet cases will be able to get their fill of Blair, Serena, Dan, Jenny, Chuck, and Nate—maybe...

Monday April 14, 2008

Categories: Television

'New Amsterdam' Ends Tonight, But Leaves With Questions

Given that I can't resist any television drama that features vampires, ghosts, all things-spooky and/or with vampire-like immortality, I've watched the entire first season of "New Amsterdam" on Fox with interest, if not unbridled enthusiasm. The season finale is tonight....

Monday April 14, 2008

Categories: Television

'Bones' Tonight: An Atheist and a Catholic Go Out on A Date

I love "Bones." Love it. I love the series title character, Dr. Temperance Brennan (Bones), I love her fellow science geeks at the lab, and I love her ambiguous, potentially-romantic relationship with the very Catholic Seeley Booth, the FBI agent...

Monday April 14, 2008

Categories: Television

'Desperate' For Faith?

Who would have thought that the saucy, sassy, soapy "Desperate Housewives" would have returned after a strike-imposed hiatus with a smart and spiritual storyline? Definitely not me. I tuned in last night out of curiosity over any new programming, and...

Thursday April 10, 2008

Categories: Television

Hitting a Sour Note on 'Idol Gives Back'?

Last year's "Idol Gives Back" was an exciting experiment in charitable giving with a delightful roughness around the edges and a pioneering spirit. This year the "Idol" team produced a slick telethon with a vast array of stars and even...

Thursday April 10, 2008

Categories: Television

Watch Video: 'The Lord's Boot Camp'

In a 48 Hours special running Saturday night (8 p.m. ET on CBS), CBS News collaborates with Loki Films, the producers of "Jesus Camp," to document the lives of Christians teenagers training to become Christian missionaries in an effort to...

Wednesday April 9, 2008

Categories: Television

Our Favorite Performances from 'Idol Gives Back'

Last night the actual Idols performed on 'Idol Gives Back' (tonight is when the celebrities perform, and Thursday is eliminations--whew!). The theme, as it was last year for the charity show, was "inspirational songs." Here are my two favorite performances...

Wednesday April 9, 2008

Categories: Television

'Idol Gives Back' Is Back

Last year's "American Idol: Idol Gives Back" was an extraordinary experiment in fundraising. No one really knew if Americans would respond with their wallets the same way they responded to the weekly voting? Would the evening turn in phenomenal numbers...

Wednesday April 9, 2008

Categories: Television

Meet the New Hindu on 'Sesame Street'

Whenever the Teletubbies introduce an Indian theme or the Backyardigans sing a Bollywood tune, my son is tickled pink, and immediately exclaims, "That's just like us!" To an Indian American child finding something Indian on children's television is fascinating and...

Monday April 7, 2008

Categories: Television

Hottie Pastor and His Groupies on 'Men In Trees'

Just recently, I wrote about how "Men In Trees" (starring Anne Heche) has quite a few interesting "religion" plotlines going this season, including one about a Christian pastor, Eric, who loses his Elmo church congregation because he's unmarried and in...

Friday April 4, 2008

Categories: Television

You Deserve A Frackin' Break Today

You know all those stories that came out about two weeks ago about how March Madness reduces productivity at American companies and that with CBS streaming the games free online will cost corporate America some $4 billion dollars? Well, that'll...

Tuesday April 1, 2008

Categories: Television

'Real World' Reunion: Top 5 Favorite Cast Members

It's difficult—if not a little depressing—to believe that the "Real World" franchise is now 15 years old. Love the series or hate it, it undoubtedly has influenced pop culture and had much to do with the boom of reality programming...

Tuesday April 1, 2008

Categories: Television

'Men In Trees' on Chastity, Church, and Now Charity

Like many other women I know, "Men In Trees" grew on me (ha!) quite a bit in its first season last year and I'm happy to see it not only survived to see a second, but made it through the...

Tuesday April 1, 2008

Categories: Television

'Battlestar' Is Back

Well...almost. In just four short days, one of the most spiritual shows in the history of television, and surely the one with the deepest exploration of the complexities of religion, finally returns to the Sci-Fi Channel for its fourth...

Thursday March 27, 2008

Categories: Television

'Autism: The Musical'

I'm an easy sell for watching most musicals, but I especially appreciate the art form when it celebrates the best of humanity and the redemptive power of the creative process. HBO's latest documentary "Autism: The Musical" does both of those...

Wednesday March 26, 2008

Categories: Television

Top 10 'American Idol' Performances Ever

I know Season 7 is still in high gear, but the last few weeks of the show have gotten me thinking about the best of the best. Here are my top ten "Idol" performances of all time. 10. Brooke White,...

Wednesday March 26, 2008

Categories: Television

Resurrection on 'Torchwood'

The brooding, spiritually-challenging "Battlestar Galactica" returns to airwaves on April 4, but those in the Sci-Fi know have been getting their fix of thought-provoking, other-worldly entertainment over at BBC America, thanks to "Torchwood." Perhaps best known for its camp and...

Tuesday March 25, 2008

The Mystery of Eckhart Tolle: Not Even Oprah Knows...

Eckhart Tolle may be Oprah's new spiritual guru of choice--inspired by his long time bestselling self-help favorite The Power of Now, but this weekend in the article "The Wisdom of the Ages, For Now Anyway," New York Times reporter...

Monday March 24, 2008

Categories: Television

'New Amsterdam': When Adultery Trumps True Love

Is committing adultery in the name of true love spiritually justifiable or morally (and biblically) wrong? Like my fellow blogger, Esther Kustanowitz, I gave the Monday night show "New Amsterdam" a chance (Thanks, writer's strike!) and was taken away...

Monday March 24, 2008

Categories: Television

SciFi's "Visions for Tomorrow" Board: The Coolest Committee You've Never Heard of

When I received a press release yesterday stating that Sir Richard Branson, of the Virgin mega-brands and various hot air balloon adventures, had joined SciFi Channel's "Visions for Tomorrow" advisory board, my curiosity was piqued. Not only do I think...

Monday March 24, 2008

Categories: Television

'90210' Redux? Rebooting the Series for Generation 'Gossip Girl'

Brenda and her "going to acting school in England." Brandon and his sideburns/journalism career. Token Jew Andrea (pronounced "Ahndrea") who bused over from another zip code so she could have a better education. The characters were ours, and the issues...

Thursday March 20, 2008

Categories: Television

Is Change the Only Constant? Pondering 'New Amsterdam'

I admit, I was feeding a hunger for vampires when I initially tuned into "New Amsterdam," which airs Mondays on FOX. I was hoping to find my new David Boreanaz in the series' star, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, or at least my...

Wednesday March 19, 2008

Categories: Television

Chakra Cleansing on 'Rock of Love'

"Rock of Love," VH1's "The Bachelor"-style dating show starring '80s glam rock band Poison's lead singer Bret Michaels, is my favorite guilty pleasure TV show. That said, I never thought I would have a reason to write about it on...

Wednesday March 19, 2008

Categories: Television

'Dancing With The Stars' Goes Pro

I believe it is both a strength and a weakness of my nature that I simply have to rant when I see a social injustice— be it big or small—being perpetrated on the masses. And that is why I simply...

Friday March 14, 2008

Categories: Television

'Jezebel James' Marks the Return of The Original Gilmore Girl

I can't imagine anyone admiring "Gilmore Girls" co-creator Amy Sherman-Palladino's writing more than I do. I still feel the loss of visiting Stars Hollow a year after it has gone off the air. Tonight, Fox is bringing Sherman-Palladino and her...

Friday March 7, 2008

Categories: Television

'FNL' Renewed By NBC in Overtime Once Again

Just when I have almost no faith left that the networks will value the primetime drama over cheaply-produced reality show garbage, I find a glimmer of hope on the television horizon. Though the fictional Dillon Panthers never finished their second...

Tuesday March 4, 2008

Categories: Television

'Tyler Perry's House of Payne' Returns

The inspirational comedy series, "Tyler Perry's House of Payne" about a multigenerational family living under one roof, returns tomorrow night on TBS (9 p.m. EST). Madea (Tyler Perry, himself) is set to make a guest appearance. Cast members from the...

Monday March 3, 2008

Categories: Television

The Apocalypse Comes to 'Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles'

Last week's episode of "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles," got all apocalyptic. Well, not that it's not already a show about a coming apocalypse, but "The Demon Hand" episode got explicitly Christian this time, evoking the Book of Revelation, and...

Monday March 3, 2008

Categories: Television

Can Oprah Save Reality TV from Itself?

"Oprah's Big Give," which debuted last night on ABC, offers reality TV the Winfrey way--sans back-stabbing, snarkiness, and rauchiness. So, will anyone watch it as it proceeds through its eight-week run? Put another way, does wholesome reality TV have a...

Friday February 29, 2008

Categories: Television

USA Today Gives It to Oprah's 'Give'

Robert Bianco's review in USA Today does something almost unheard of in today's media: it rips into Oprah Winfrey! He hints at the "horrifying" and "stomach-churning" as he describes her new entry into the prime time TV market. Oprah is...

Friday February 29, 2008

Categories: Television

Where The Heck is '24'?

Some TV shows are making their way quickly to post-strike prime time. Some are taking awhile and some are in limbo. There are even websites where you can go and weigh in on your opinion. But one show that is...

Tuesday February 26, 2008

Categories: Television

'Truthlessness' Reigns on 'Moment'

Stephen Colbert coined the term "truthiness," and now I would like to expand the lexicon with my own truth-based contribution, "truthlessness." What is truthlessness, you ask? Well, it's just what it sounds like, truth coupled with ruthlessness, the finest exemplar...

Monday February 25, 2008

Categories: Television

80th Oscar's Top Ten Most Inspiring Moments

Each year at the Oscars there are goof-ups and fashion slips, which make for lots of water cooler banter the next day. But for me, the most lasting moments are the most inspiring ones. This was certainly the "year...

Tuesday February 19, 2008

Categories: Television

Dog's Out of the Doghouse: 'Bounty Hunter' Returns

Duane "Dog" Chapman--who you either know as the cool guy who catches criminals with the rest of his family, on the hit A&E show "Dog the Bounty Hunter," or as that guy who was outed by the National Enquirer for...

Friday February 15, 2008

Categories: Television

The Top 20 Most Appalling TV Shows

Entertainment Weekly's current feature—the Top Twenty Most Appalling Shows Ever—provides a reminder of how bad television can get. No matter how bad we've gotten in this writers' strike, it's actually been worse while the writers were available! (Though not by...

Thursday February 14, 2008

Categories: Television

'House's' Portrayal of Chasidic Jews

For a long time now, Chabad, along with many others concerned about the subtle and not-so-subtle influences of pop culture, has been unequivocal about television watching as a harmful, mind-numbing pastime. But that didn't stop the medium from turning its...