Saturday, September 29, 2012

The Style List: The 7 Best Red Carpet Fashions at The Emmys 2012

Overall, The Emmys were a disappointment when it came to the fashions, but these seven ladies were the standouts, the exceptions to the rule. They made the 2012 Emmy Awards shine like never before. Not only did they each have a beautiful gown, but they were the whole package from make up to hair to accessories and shoes, down to the gown and the smile.  

Zooey Deschanel looked light and lovely in a periwinkle fairy gown from Reem Acra.



Nicole Kidman took the simple approach, but absolutely sparkled in Antonio Berardi.



Ginnifer Goodwin wore a nude colored Monique Lhuillier with red orange velvet flowers over it. This was a big risk, but I think she pulled it off. 



 Kerry Washington was "old Hollywood" glamour at it's best in a sparkling champagne Vivienne Westwood gown. 



Julianna Margulies wore a modern jewel toned floral print gown by Giambattista Valli. On someone else, a disaster. On Julianna, divine; she has such a clean, sophisticated look that this works for her. 


Anna Chlumsky went dark and gothic with the color, but feminine with the lace and satin belt in this Christian Siriano number.  




Julie Bowen wore an electric yellow Monique Lhuillier gown; her whole look was so together from top to bottom. I think it is in my favorite look for this event; she was the whole package. 




The Voice Season 3: Week 3 of the blind auditions lose steam

Hopefully when week four of The Voice's Blind Auditions role around they won't be the weakest week yet because week three definitely lost steam in comparison to weeks one and two. Because there were so many weak performances, I decided to make the format different from weeks one and two.

The contestants in the strong category would be the contestant's I would want on my team. 

Strong Performances:

Adam was actually honored and blessed that Michelle Brooks Thompson, who sang Proud Mary by Tina Turner turned up for auditions and wowed them.
Who did she choose? Adam

Dez Duron may have chosen an odd song....... what is Sara Smile? However, he was charming and had a great voice, that's two checks in the plus column for me.
Who did he choose? Christina 

Latin rocker Laura Vivas added an element to the competition that wasn't there before. I love her hard, yet soft edge, and she displayed it perfectly when she sang Whaddaya Want From Me by Adam Lambert!
Who did she choose? Christina

Brandon Mahone is what is termed as a singer's singer. He has the style and flair of an old school rhythm and blues singer, someone like Nat Kind Cole, Al Green, or The Temptations. In fact, Brandon sang, I Wish it Would Rain by David Ruffin of The Temptations.
Who did he choose? Adam

Ex teen pop star Jordan Pruitt was actually significantly better than I believed she would be. She has a strong feminine voice which was perfect with her singing The One That Got Away by Katy Perry.
Who did she choose? Christina

Terisa Griffin has more than just a big personality; she also had a massive voice. The thing about Terisa is that the talent is real , and she's deserving. I loved that she chose Blake, that was so unexpected, yet I completely understand her reasoning.
Who did she choose? Blake

The total package, Sylvia Yacoub is a pop star in the making; although, her voice may need some work, she poses a triple threat. Singing Only Girl in the World by Rhianna was a smart choice because it was young and energetic and it embodied the spirit that she was trying to get a home message.
Who did she choose? Christina

The best of this week for me was Cassadee Pope, a former lead singer in a band, Cassadee sang a stripped down version of Torn by Natalia Imbruglia, and it was brilliant. This is someone who I can see going far in the competition.
Who did she cboose? Blake

And here's the rest:

Diego Val sang Animal by Neon Trees and joined Cee Lo's team. I actually did like Diego and I look forward to seeing what he's going to do in the next round. The rumor is that there is a twist to the battle rounds and that the contestants may be able to jump teams.

Suzanna Choffel sang a heartfelt rendition of Landslide by Stevie Nicks and joined Blake's team.

Also picked up by Blake was

Michaela Paige who sang Sober by Pink and

Ryan Jirouec sang Amazed by Lonestar

Then there were a bunch of artist's who auditions barely made air time........

Alexis Marceaux sang Go Your Own Way and joined Cee Lo's team

Adam picked up Adam James who sang Imagine by John Lennon

and Leila Broussard sang We Can Work it Out by The Beatles also joined Blake's team.

Rounding out week three of auditions,

Charlie Rey sang Home by Michael Buble and in a battle, Rey chose Blake over Adam.

And then Amanda Brown had an unimpressive performance of Valerie by Amy Winehouse and joined Cee Lo's team. 

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Dancing with the Stars All Stars Season 15 Week 1: It really is full of stars

One of the most exciting nights of this new fall TV season will without a doubt be the Season 15 premiere of Dancing with the Stars: All Stars Edition. I watched with great expectations, and I was not disappointed. You see read my Fall TV Preview if you want facts about the couples (i.e. what season they were on, if the all star is paired with a new pro or the same pro, etc.). New this season, the introduction of the half point; I personally don't like this idea, it just means that the judges can be more indecisive and less sure of their score.

Scores are in this order: Carrie Ann, Len, Bruno

Joey Fatone and Kym Johnson started off the night with a Cha Cha Cha
I loved Joey's eagerness and how much fun he had. Len said their was a lot of energy and a high performance level. Carrie Ann loved Joey's showmanship, and yet it didn't translate in the score. I understand that he danced first, but I do believe he was under-scored.
Scores: 6.5, 7, 7 = 20.5 out of 30

Shawn Johnson and Derek Hough danced the Foxtrot
Shawn's maturity level shows, and she has a new found poise when she danced, but it did lack style as the judges mentioned. Bruno said it was like two dances for the price of one. Stylistically it had to be more defined. Carrie Ann said it was the whole package.
Scores: 8, 6.5, 7.5 = 22 out of 30

Sabrina Bryan and Louis Van Amstel danced the Cha Cha Cha
I am so happy that Sabrina won the fan's vote because this young lady deserves to be here; she danced her butt off. Carrie Ann called her incredible but warned her not to over-dance. Len said it was clean and precise. I don't get how Shawn got an 8 and Sabrina got all 7.5's.
Scores: 7.5, 7.5, 7.5 = 22.5 out of 30

Helio Castroneves and Chelsie Hightower danced the Foxtrot
This performance had a really smooth flow to it; it was just joyous to watch. Len told Helio he took pride in what he did and it was a joy to watch, hence them dancing to "Pride and Joy". Carrie Ann and Bruno both talked about his charisma and charm.
Scores: 7, 7.5, 7 = 21.5 out of 30

Pamela Anderson ans Tristan McManus danced the Cha Cha Cha
She basically didn't do much moving for the performance, it actually looked like she walked around on stage a lot; this was not good. Bruno said there was not enough work in the performance to praise her. Carrie Ann said, we love watching you, but you need to watch and learn the techniques. Len felt like she just got through it.
Scores: 5.5, 5.5, 6 = 17 out of 30

Melissa Rycroft and Tony Dovolani danced the Foxtrot
I was actually impressed with Melissa, I don't remember her being this good, and she was very dedicated in her rehearsals. Carrie Ann said gorgeous lines but there needs to be more body contact. Len said it was a bit too theatrical, but beautiful lines and extension. Bruno said the frame needed to be stronger, but it was excellent overall.
Scores: 7, 7, 7 = 21 out of 30

Apolo Ohno and Karina Smirnoff danced the Cha Cha Cha
Apolo is another contestant that really matured and it made his dancing and performance better all around. Len said it was a bronze medal performance and needed more hip action, but you sold it. Bruno said, great foot placement. Carrie Ann said Apolo was 3000 times more sexy and he had great hip action and legwork.
Scores: 7.5, 7, 7.5 = 22 out of 30

Gilles Marini and Peta Murgatroyd danced the Foxtrot
Always a dream to watch, Gilles is not only easy on the eyes but talented. Bruno said it was so good, can I see it again? Carrie Ann said I missed you Gilles, that was poetic and gorgeous. Len said it was terrific and the scores translated.
Scores: 8, 8, 8 = 24 out of 30

Bristol Pain and Mark Ballas danced the Cha Cha Cha
She did come out of her shell, and there was more confidence displayed for sure, but this was weak in comparison to the other all stars. Carrie Ann said you're the most improved, but you need more pop. Len said you had more confidence, great legs, but you need to be more fluid on the arms.
Scores: 6.5, 6.5, 6.5 = 19.5 out of 30

Drew Lachey and Anna Trebunskaya danced the Foxtrot
Drew was someone I expected to come out and just nail it, and he didn't exactly. There were some sloppy spots; he's a little rusty, so I think he should still be here, but needs work. Len said it was too hard and hectic. Bruno called it dynamic and full of energy, but said that sometimes Drew stiffened up. Carrie Ann said fabulous, but at times it was rigid. This shouldn't have been a higher score than Joey Fatone.
Scores: 7, 7, 7.5 = 21.5 out of 30

Kelly Monaco and Val Chmerkovskiy danced the Cha Cha Cha
She never danced the Cha Cha Cha before! What? She was awesome! Bruno said hotter than ever, a stunner, well done. Carrie Ann thought that Kelly and Val had insane chemistry, and threw in, Apolo's not the only one who got sexier. Len said you weren't this good in Season 1, the beat was terrific, I loved it, well done.
Scores: 7, 7, 7.5 = 21.5 out of 30

Kirstie Alley and Maxsim Chmerkovskiy danced the Foxtrot
I could tell that Kirstie kind of did this half way, her heart wasn't completely in it. Carrie Ann loved Kirstie's sensuality, but said that she didn't turn that all the way for this performance. Len told her to lift her ribcage and that it needed refining.
Scores: 6.5, 6, 6.5 = 19 out of 30

And Finally,

Emmitt Smith and Cheryl Burke danced the Cha Cha Cha
This was so good, it was like Emmitt and Cheryl have been dancing together forever and didn't even miss a beat. Len said, you can't teach flair, and called it the best of the night. Carrie Ann screamed, "Yabba dabba do! Twinkle toes is back".
Scores: 8, 8.5, 8 = 24.5 out of 30

Who should go home: Pamela Anderson 

Saturday, September 22, 2012

The Voice Season 3: Week 2 of Blind Auditions as Impressive as Week 1

Starting off week two was Melanie Martinez who came out not only was a fresh look but a fresh voice. She is different from anyone else that's been on the show so far. I also loved her version of Toxic by Britney Spears; it initially didn't even sound like that song when she started singing it.
Who did she choose? Adam
Would I choose her for my team? I would because she dares to be herself without reservation.

And now came the segment of the show where they showed us some contestants (the next three) who advanced but we didn't see complete performances or judges' remarks, thus making it difficult to decide whether or not we agree with them advancing.

Adrianna Duru sang Edge of Glory by Lady Gaga
Who did she choose? Adam
Would I choose her for my team? Afraid not

Kelly Crapa sang Sparks Fly by Taylor Swift
Who did she choose? Blake
Would I choose her for my team? Out of the three that we hardly got to see, this young lady seemed to have the most potential. I'd like to hear her again, but I am tempted to say "yes".

Paulina sang You Make Me Feel So by Cobra Starship
Who did she choose? Christina
Would I choose her for my team? No, why did Christina choose her? I'm not impressed.

Single father Brian Scartocci put on an impressive show, voice and dance moves included when he performed Isn't She Lovely by Stevie Wonder. It's always a risk to do a Stevie song and Brian certainly did this one justice.
Who did he choose? Adam
Would I choose him for my team? Brian is "wonder"ful, I would absolutely love having him on my team.

Husband and wife duo, Beat Frequency definitely work well together, my issue is that their voices, particularly the wife's, are not strong enough. I give them props for choosing a song as difficult as E.T. by Katy Perry; that is not an easy song to sing.
Who did they choose? Christina
Would I choose them for my team? I want to say yes because I like their passion, but I want to say no because they need too much work.

Country singer Liz Davis came out and absolutely rocked Gretchen Wilson's Here for the Party. I loved her voice and loved her energy on stage, this is one of my favorite performances from the whole season. She's another person who deserved a four chair turn.
Who did she choose? Blake
Would I choose her for my team? I'm here to win, so Liz Davis needs to be on my team.

J.R. Aquino did Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars; I am still debating how good this performance was. There's a part of me that thinks that Bruno Mars is so hot right now that anyone who has the confidence to try it deserves to be in. There was also something that sounded a bit karaoke about this performance.
Who did he choose? CeeLo
Would I choose him for my team? I'd need to hear him again to make a final decision.

It's been a while since I heard a singer who brought the 80s sound back full fledged and that's what Nicholas David did when he sang Ben E. King's Stand by Me for his audition. David sounded like a cross between James Taylor and Aaron Neville. It will be interesting if he gets through the battle rounds if America is going to pick up the phone and vote for him.
Who did he choose? CeeLo
Would I choose him for my team? There's something soothing and peaceful about his voice that leads me to say yes.

Hailing from the famed "Fame" school in Laguardia, New York 17 year old Alessandra Guercio blew the judges away with her take on The Climb by Miley Cyrus. I think Alessandra has such a natural ability that does need some polishing, but the talent is all there. She's the complete package in my opinion, a rare find today. I am expecting a lot from her going forward.
Who did she choose? Adam
Would I choose her for my time? Alessandra is a quick and confident yes for me.

Completely untrained vocally, 16 year old Avery Wilson left the judges speechless when he sang Without You by Usher. This kid has chops and he has the drive, confidence, and eagerness to go all the way in this competition. I was honestly shocked when he said he was only 16 years old; the poise and maturity that he displayed in the performance is definitely something that cannot be bought.
Who did he choose? CeeLo
Would I choose him for my team? "Without" Avery on my team, I don't think I'd fare as well. CeeLo may win the whole thing this year.

Collin McLaughlin made the right decision dropping out of grad school one credit short, at least for the time being. His soothing voice was just perfect on Wild World by Cat Stevens.
Who did he choose? Adam
Would I choose him for my team? I think before I commit, I'd like to hear him again, battle rounds here we come!

Here is another set of three quick performances, none of which I was too convinced about.......

Emily Earle sang Ring of Fire by Johnny Cash
Who did she choose? CeeLo
Would I choose her for my team? No, this version of Ring of Fire sounded a bit dismal.

Ben Taub sang Feelin Good by Michael Buble
Who did he choose? CeeLo
Would I choose him for my team? Only if he doesn't sound like he's trying to copy Michael Buble in every song he sings.

Todd Kessler sang Maggie May by Rod Stewart
Who did he choose? CeeLo
Would I choose him for my team? No, this performance seemed to forced and staged.

Josselyn Rivera tackled a tough song in Kelly Clarkson's Stronger. Anytime you choose a Kelly Clarkson song, it's tough because she has that huge powerful voice, and Josselyn totally lived up to it. I didn't feel the need to draw comparisons because she sounded like herself. I think she has the desire to go further in this competition.
Who did she choose? Christina
Would I choose her for my team? You can never be too short on strong female singers, so that's a yes for me.

Rocker Benji decided to take on rock classic Knockin on Heaven's Door by Guns n' Roses. I liked this performance and there aren't a lot of legit rockers in this competition so far, so Benji could really end up faring well. I loved the control that he showed going from the low notes up to the high notes.
Who did he choose? Adam
Would I choose him for my team? I think I would take a chance and say yes because the first performance was that impressive.

There's a reason that Mycle Wastman was the final performer of the night. He certainly deserved to be the main event because when he opened his mouth and sang the first few bars of Let's Stay Together by Al Green, I knew he was the real deal. Mycle is a true, authentic soul singer, and the fact that he doesn't look the part but completely sounds it is just amazing to me. My money is on CeeLo possibly winning season three of The Voice.
Who did he choose? CeeLo
Would I choose him for my team? Yes, yes, yes!


Wednesday, September 19, 2012

The Voice Season 3: The First Week of Blind Auditions was "A Can't Miss"

Week one of the blind auditions on Season 3 of The Voice was nothing short of impressive. Overall, the male singers were stronger than the female singers, but I am keeping in mind that there are more blind audition shows left. When I started playing along creating my own team, it was difficult for me to pick a strong female vocalist out.

Up first was Scottish Rocker Terry McDermott who sang Baba O'Riley by The Who. This guy has a clear rock voice, and I think he's going to do well.
Who did he choose? Blake
Would I choose him for my team? Absolutely, he may not look the part, but he sure sounds it.

De'borah grew up in the church, but slowly became an outcast after she changed her look. She sang Hey Soul Sister by Train. You can certainly hear the gospel influence in her voice, and I appreciate her being herself.
Who did she choose? Christina
Would I choose her for my team? She's different, but different is good, and her voice is strong. In a word, yes!

Gracia Harrison sang I Want to be a Cowboy's Sweetheart by Patsy Montana and got the attention of the three men on the panel. I love the fact that she just went out there and sang and yodeled; it's not something that many people can do, so it sets her apart.
Who did she choose? Blake
Would I choose her for my team? I'm pretty sure I would. She gives us something that's missing in country music.

When you come out and sing a song from one of the artists who is potentially going to mentor you, you'd better have the goods. Devyn Deloera came out singing Christina's Ain't No Other Man, and her voice was somewhat weak.
Who did she choose? Christina
Would I choose her for my team? Afraid not at this point. I'd like to hear her again so I could judge it better.

Bryan Keith received the first four chair turnaround of the season when he sang It Will Main by Bruno Mars. The soulful singer said his dad Latin jazz singer Ray de la Pazz is his inspiration and influence when he sings. This is one of the people who could ultimately win this thing.
Who did he choose? Adam
Would I choose him for my team? Need we even ask? Bryan Keith definitely sounds like a superstar name to me.

Daniel Rosa auditioned last season, but was not chosen; before leaving the stage, he asked the judges what he could do to improve and he went home and did just that. Rosa came back better than ever, singing Somebody That I Used to Know by Goethe. I really loved his rendition of the song.
Who did he choose? CeeLo
Would I choose him for my team? There's a good chance I would, he shows dedication and that he is serious about singing. He takes direction well.

Texas rocker Joe Kirkland sang Gives You Hell by The All American Rejects. Although I liked this performance, there was nothing about it that blew me away.
Who did he choose? Adam
Would I choose him for my team? No, there was something about the performance that didn't impress me.

18 year old Trevin Hunte was robbed of a four chair turnaround, what's wrong with you Adam? Hunte sang Listen from the movie Dreamgirls, and this entire performance was just a dream from beginning to end. Hunte said that his eighth grade teacher told him he would never make anything of himself; I guess I want to know where she is now, and I hope she saw that performance.
Who did he choose? CeeLo
Would I choose him for my team? A team without him wouldn't be a team at all. Trevin has the natural ability that those who want to sing wish that they had.

Adriana Louise was the first female singer to impress me this season, and she got the four chair turnaround, so that means something. She sang a spirited version of Domino by Jessie J.; what I loved about this was that the vocal was so strong yet controlled.
Who did she choose? Christina
Would I choose her for my team? Absolutely, Adriana is special without question.

Country singer Casey Muessigmann (sounds like musicman) did his best at Sweet Home Alabama. I like Casey's personality, but the vocals are pretty mediocre.
Who did he choose? Blake
Would I choose him for my team? The vocal just wasn't strong enough. I look forward to hearing him again though because he does have potential.

I enjoyed the smooth voice of Aquile who sang Your Song by Elton John. I don't really think this was the best song choice for Aquile's voice but I was able to see through the song and see his talent for what it really was. I think he needs to make more contemporary song choices going forward.
Who did he choose? Christina
Would I choose him for my team? Yes, there's never anything wrong with a smooth voice that has control.

When I first heard Mackenzie Bourg's voice, I knew he was special. I love the inflections in his voice, the way he puts emphasis on certain words. He has soul and his voice is so unique. Pumped Up Kicks by Foster the People showed all of that so perfectly.
Who did he choose? CeeLo
Would I choose him for my team? I love Mackenzie, so I would absolutely need him on my team for the all reasons I stated above.

Julio Castillo did something on The Voice that no other contestant has ever done; he sang completely in Spanish, and wow was it the right song. In his rendition of La Bamba, his voice sounded like Richie Valens at times. This guy has definite talent, and I think he will work hard.  
Who did he choose? Blake
Would I choose him for my team? I would choose Julio because his voice is strong; I am interested to hear how he will sound in English. He also sounded amazing when he sang that Mariachi song El Rey in Spanish.

It's not every day that you find a singer who has a deep understanding for music. Samuel Mouton has that, and it was made all the more obvious when he sang Redemption Song by Bob Marley. His voice is authentic, and I was most surprised that Christina did not turn around and make this a four chair turnaround.
Who did he choose? Adam
Would I choose him for my team? I would because he's a singer's singer, and this kid is the real deal.

The first duo chosen on this season was 2 Steel Girls, a mother and daughter duo. They were good, they sang Before He Cheats by Carrie Underwood, but I am still not completely convinced.
Who did they choose? Blake
Would I choose them for my team? I'd pass on these ladies, but I do want to see what they can do.

Nelly's Echo is a refugee from Nigeria, so he has a story, and that story is in his voice every time he sings. He sang Ain't no Sunshine, and I loved the way he made it his own, and added his own flavor to the song.
Who did he choose? Christina
Would I choose him for my team? I loved his voice, I loved the person, I would choose Nelly's Echo for my team

D to the O to the M to the O ........ Domo was a trip! The song she chose, Don't Cha by the Pussycat Dolls, definitely matched her big personality. She danced around a lot and her voice was good, but it wasn't great.
Who did she choose? CeeLo
Would I choose her for my team? No, Domo is more of a performer than a singer, and in some cases, this is good, if the voice is strong enough, but in this case, it's not.

For the first time this season, the judge's were really impressed with a vocal that I wasn't all that impressed with. Nicole Nelson sang Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley, and I feel like whenever anyone tackles this lyrically special song, they get a pass, and it shouldn't be so. I would like to hear her sing something else, and if she sings it well, I will be impressed.
Who did she choose? Adam
Would I choose her for my team? At the moment, no, but that could change.

The last three contestants were shown rather quickly so I can write about what they sang and who they chose. From the small clip I heard, I would choose one of them, but that could change when I see all three of them sing through a complete performance going forward. 

Loren Allred sang When Love Takes Over by Kelly Rowland and David Guetta
Who did she choose? Adam
Would I choose her for my team? This is the one of the three that I would choose

Lisa Seinta sang Teenage Dream by Katy Perry
Who did she choose? Christina
Would I choose her for my team? Not now, but would consider it later

Marissa Ann sang Part of Me by Katy Perry
Who did she choose? Christina
Would I choose her for my team? Not now, but would consider it later



 




Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Fall TV Preview 2012

Monday:

After reviewing this year's fall lineup, I've determined that the most competitive night of television is Monday. There are so many great shows to watch, use my guide to help you make your personal "watch" list.

8pm kicks off with Dancing with the Stars Season 15 on ABC, an all stars edition. This was something I was excited about as soon as I heard rumors about it from Mario Lopez (a previous contestant), who let the cat out of the bag a bit prematurely, but ultimately was right. Once the cast was chosen, I was even more excited because this cast features some of my absolute favorites! (Sept. 24)

The Teams:

Kirstie Alley, 2nd place from Season 12, will be partnered with her previous partner, Maksim Chmerkovskiy.

Pamela Anderson, 6th place from Season 10, was previously partnered with Damian Whitewood, and will be partnered this time around by Tristan MacManus.

Voted into the competition by the fans, Sabrina Bryan, 7th place from Season 5, was previously partnered with Mark Ballas, and will be partnered this time around by Louis Van Amstel.

Helio Castroneves, the winner of Season 5, was previously partnered with Julianne Hough, and will be partnered this time around with Chelsie Hightower.

Joey Fatone, 2nd place from Season 4, will be partnered with his previous partner, Kym Johnson.

Shawn Johnson, the winner of Season 8, was partnered with Mark Ballas, and will be partnered this time around with Derek Hough.

Drew Lachey, the winner of Season 2, was partnered with Cheryl Burke, and will be partnered this time around with Anna Trebunskaya.

Giles Marini, 2nd place from Season 8, was partnered with Cheryl Burke, and will be partnered this time around with Peta Murgatroyd.

Kelly Monaco, the winner of Season 1, was partnered with Alec Mazo, and will be partnered this time around by Val Chmerkovskiy. 

Apolo Anton Ohno, the winner of Season 4, was partnered with Julianne Hough, and will be partnered this time around by Karina Smirnoff.

Bristol Palin, 3rd place from Season 11, will be partnered with her previous partner, Mark Ballas. 

Melissa Rycroft, 3rd place from Season 8, will be partnered with her previous partner, Tony Dovolani.

Emmitt Smith, the winner of Season 3, will be partnered with his previous partner, Cheryl Burke.

I'm not revealing who my money is on.......

Also at 8pm

90210 on the CW begins season five where season four left off with lots of questions, lives in peril, and changes galore. The season opener resolves some of that, but as is always the case, there will be some season long story lines. Who will ultimately end up with who? Will Dixon live and get back to Adrianna? Who is Liam meant to be with? Annie or Silver? Will Naomi and Max be together forever? Rumor has it Navid will turn into a bad boy! Those are my favorite kind. Look for Ivy's storyline to come to a conclusion. (Oct. 8)

Finally, The Voice returns for Season 3 on NBC. All four judges, Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Cee Lo Green, and Christina Aguilera return. This time around they are joined by Mary J. Blige, Billie Joe Armstrong, Rob Thomas, and Michael Buble as advisors. (Sept. 10)

Not into reality shows or teen angst? Try the CBS comedy Partners debuting Sept. 24th at 8:30. The comedy, by same duo that created Will & Grace, are back with a similar recipe. This one is about two male best friends, one gay, Louis (Michael Urie-- Mark from Ugly Betty) and one straight, Joe (David Krumholtz). Both have significant others, played by, Brandon Routh (the most recent Superman movie) and Sophia Bush (One Tree Hill). Check out a preview HERE

At 9pm

The Mob Doctor on FOX is an edge of your seat thriller based on the 2004 biography Il Dottore (The Doctor) about a surgeon with ties to the mob. She walks the line between corruption and redemption; sounds dangerous! Check out a preview and cast list HERE! (Sept. 17)

My favorite new comedy from last year, 2 Broke Girls on CBS returns for Season 2. Caroline and Max continue their quest to launch their own cupcake business. We meet Caroline's dad, and the season will end with a wedding. Oh my! (Sept. 24)

For sentimental reasons, I wanted to mention that Season 6 of Gossip Girl will be the final season. I am hoping that this season will be a return to the writing and storylines of Season 1. The show has lost focus in the past couple of year and has been a hot mess ever since. Serena, I know you hear me and love me, xoxo, Miss V. (Oct. 8)

At 10pm

And now for something really scary, The Revolution on NBC is about a world where all forms of power have been snuffed out from the planet. The show is about family, and there is a large element of mystery as well, like who turned out all the lights and are they ever coming back on? I watched the first episode online; I'm intrigued. You can watch the pilot and learn more about the show HERE! (Sept. 17)

On Hawaii Five-O on CBS, season three will explore the pasts of McGarrett and Danny. Christine Lahti joins the cast this year as McGarrett's mom who will give insight into her son's childhood and young adulthood. She'll reveal why she actually left her family. We'll learn about Danny's days as a cop in New Jersey and how much he loved his now ex wife Rachel. (Sept. 24)


Tuesday:

At 8pm don't forget to watch your Dancing with the Stars Results Show on ABC, and more action on The Voice on NBC.

Also at 8pm, is the second season of last year's sweetest newcomer dramedy Hart of Dixie. This year is all about Rachel Bilson's, Dr. Zoe Hart deciding who she wants to be with: the vulnerable, hot, bad boy Wade or smart, pretty boy, lawyer George (also Lemon's ex who he basically left at the altar). I personally am a Zoe and Wade fan, but I know a lot of people who would disagree with me. Zoe is going to make a choice, I just hope it's not the famous, or rather infamous, "I choose me". (Oct. 2)

At 9:30pm on FOX The Mindy Project is a 30 year old doctor's look at her life and it's successes and failures. Her career is successful, her personal life, total and utter failure. I was able to watch the first episode of the show on FOX; it's hilarious, and I am hoping that the subsequent episodes will follow suit. I also love all the health insurance jokes; they're very now. Watch the first episode HERE! (Sept. 25)

The 10pm hour brings us one exciting new drama and a returning underdog.

Vegas on CBS is based on a true story and has an amazingly talented cast. Dennis Quaid in his first lead role in a TV series plays a Las Vegas Sheriff from the 60s named Ralph Lamb who takes on Chicago gangster Vincent Savino played by Michael Chiklis following the murder of a casino worker. Carrie Anne Moss plays an ambitious Assistant District Attorney who helps Lamb to keep order in town. Rounding out the cast are Lamb's two deputies, his son, and his brother. (Sept. 25)

One of the happiest moments of last TV season was knowing that Parenthood on NBC would be back for a 4th season. The eloquently written and well acted show never fails to impress with its realistic take on the world and family dynamics. Jasmine and Crosby are married now, so we get to see what they're like as a married couple. Haddie is going off to college for real.  Ray Romano is going to be brought on as a guest star who potentially could throw and wrench in Sara and Mark's relationship, especially since they're engaged now. Julia and Joel are adjusting to life with their newly adopted child Victor now in the house. Amber is going to work at the Luncheonette. Adam and Kristina are going to face a crisis of epic proportions. (Sept. 11)

Wednesday:

At 8pm

Following Melanie Amaro's crowning as the first X Factor Champion, FOX decided that the Simon Cowell series needed to clean house and clean house it did. Out were the host who I don't even remember anymore, coach/ judge Nicole Scherzinger, and coach/ judge Paula Abdul. As of now, the show still doesn't have a host but brought Britney Spears and Demi Lovato on to help coach and judge; I'm looking forward to seeing how these new judges work together. (Sept. 12)

For all those mourning the loss of Smallville, never fear, Arrow is here! If we're comparing it to Smallville, Arrow is more sophisticated, a little more dark, some people even draw comparisons to Batman. Arrow is "billionaire playboy" Oliver Queen, played by Stephen Arnell, and he fights for truth and justice. His sidekick is Laurel Lance, a.k.a. Black Canary, played by Katie Cassidy. Their outfits are also a little more modern which also means they're a little more sexy, something tells me they have a viewership waiting to tune in already. (Oct. 10)

At 9pm..... two cop shows are up against each other and I am a fan of both. I always wonder why the networks do this to each other, obviously none of the major networks are going away.

On CBS, Jeanne Tripplehorn joins the cast of Criminal Minds as linguistics expert Alex Blake who initially may be seen as a threat because she is joining such a tight knit group. Prentiss (Paget Brewster) will be gone but not forgotten, the show says they'll name drop her as much as possible and the possibility of her returning is always open. Reid will have a significant other this season. Hotch's new relationship will soon become long distance as is Alex's, so they'll have something in common. Garcia and Kevin's relationship will continue to be rocky. There is also going to be a season long case and the unsub will be known as the "replicator" because he replicates the crimes of other criminals. (Sept. 26)  

Law & Order: SVU on NBC returns after a shocking season finale picking up right where is left off with Captain Cragen waking up in bed next to a dead hooker. Besides Cragen being in a real pickle, the effects will also impact Benson (Mariska Hargitay) who just lost her partner of 12 years the year before. Now she must deal with the fall out of all this and whether or not her Captain has been lying to her. It turns out that he was hiding some skeletons in his closet from the squad. Paget Brewster joins as a DA investigator who is assigned to look into the Captain's past. (Sept. 26)   

Finally, the 10pm hour brings two new dramas, one being labeled as the best new drama on TV in some time now.

Of all the new dramas coming on this fall, the one I have been most excited about is Nashville on ABC. Created and written by Callie Khouri (an Oscar winner for writing the script for Thelma & Louise), the show takes one of the most realistic looks at the music business yet. Connie Britton, in her first major role since Friday Night Lights (she co-starred in last years American Horror Story), plays Faith Hill-like singer Rayna James. Rayna is dealing with her career being jeopardized as the result of a hot little newcomer to the scene, Juliette Barnes, played by Hayden Panettiere. With a song book by producer T-Bone Burnett (incidentally, he is Khouri's husband), I don't think I'll be leaving Nashville any time soon. Watch a great preview HERE! (Oct. 10)

Lady Gaga's boyfriend Taylor Kinney stars in the new NBC drama Chicago Fire as a brash firefighter who butts heads with his comrades. Don't watch it because of who Taylor Kinney is though, rather, watch because the show is executive produced by Dick Wolf (he hardly ever misses when it comes to good dramas) and it takes a look at the lives of firefighters and paramedics and the courageous risks that they take every single day. Although there hasn't been much buzz when it comes to Chicago Fire, the cast boasts some seasoned veterans. Read about the show HERE and take a look at the cast! (Oct 10)

Thursday:  

Don't forget, X Factor results at 8pm on FOX and .....

the fourth season of The Vampire Diaries begins. I first have to comment on how much I disliked the season finale. The build up to the final episode of season three was so good, and yet the finale was so disappointing. I hated the fact that they turned Elena into a vampire. I think that was taking the easy way out. I hate that she had to relive what happened to her only years before, and that this time Matt was the one at risk because the audience understands the sentimental attachment that she has to him. I didn't like how they played Stefan and Damon against one another for almost the whole season. I didn't like the whole Tyler/ Klaus and I don't know who is who storyline. All that being said, I am invested in these characters and I care about what happens to them. I just hope that season four pleases more than season three did. (Oct. 11)

I'm hearing lots of good things about ABC's Last Resort costarring Andre Braugher (a fave of mine from way back, I'm talking, Homicide: Life on the Street. His turn last year on Law & Order: SVU was amazing) and Scott Speedman (the famous "Ben" on Felicity). Braugher plays a submarine captain and Speedman is his XO. They ignore an odd order to nuke Pakistan, and then end up going rogue as a result. They then start their own nation and try to figure out how to clear their name and get home. (Sept. 27)

9pm is a three horse race with last season's number one new drama, Person of Interest on CBS, Glee on FOX, and newcomer Beauty and the Beast on the CW.

Finch was kidnapped at the close of last season on Person of Interest, Reese needs to oversee everything for the time being. Will Finch be found? Will Reese keep up with his duties? (Sept. 27)

I just watched the season three finale of Glee. It was way too sad, and the endings were too cliche: Finn and Rachel breaking up, Finn going into the army, several students moving to the "Big" city, everyone trying to "find" themselves. This season is supposedly about new beginnings. Rachel, Kurt, and Santana are living together in New York City. Sarah Jessica Parker and Kate Hudson join the cast in the NYC storyline. Back in Ohio, Brittany, Artie, Blaine, Sam, and Tina try to figure out who is going to be the next Rachel. Who will stay together? Who will break up?....... with so many long distance relationships.What will come of Finn, Puck, Mercedes, Quinn, and Mike? I've heard nothing about their story lines. Then there's the teachers: Sue, Will, and Emma; will their new students ever be able to replace those that they lost? As far as music, there's another Britney Spears episode coming up, and lots of songs from the summer that they will tackle in one way or another. (Sept. 13)

Beauty and the Beast on the CW puts a modern day spin on a classic fairytale. I remember watching the TV version from the 80s, and I am hoping that this will be a vast improvement over that. The basis of the show is a detective named Cat is consumed by her tragic past, her mom was murdered, and had something or someone not come along and save her, she would be dead too. She wants to discover what or who exactly saved her life. While working a case, she finds the man who saved her life, he also has a secret in that he's been watching over her for all these years. He begins helping her with her cases and she soon comes to trust him like she's never trusted any other man. (Oct. 11)

At 10pm

I am eager to check out the new procedural drama, Elementary. I am surprised to know that a network had not picked up or developed a Holmes and Watson detective series before now. This one costars British actor Jonny Lee Miller as Holmes and Lucy Liu as Joan Watson. As a result of being a modern day take, Elementary tackles Holmes' drug use, and brings a different dimension since Watson is a woman. I loved Lucy Liu's work on Southland so I am actually excited to see what she brings to this character. Many are already predicting that it will be a ratings hit. (Sept. 27)

Friday:

At 8pm

At the end of last season, CSI: NY on CBS didn't know whether or not they would be back to live another season, but it was their longer running, higher rated sister CSI: Miami that got the ax instead. In the season finale, Mac was shot, and this season we'll see the effects of that. He underwent a lot of trauma, and to just go back on the job can be overwhelming. (Sept. 28)

 At 9pm

Made in Jersey on CBS is about a young street smart woman who works as a lawyer. She's out to prove to her colleagues that just because she doesn't have an Ivy league education doesn't mean she lacks insight. Supporting her is her large Italian family who gives her the confidence and passion she needs to compete with her new environment.  (Sept. 28)

At 10pm

Returning for a third season Blue Bloods on CBS promises to deliver on more Reagan clan adventures. Among them, Frank will decide whether or not to stay on as NYPD Commissioner. (Sept. 28)

Saturday:

Saturday is going to be a great day to catch up on series that you've missed or watch some news magazines or crime shows.

Sunday:

At 8pm

The Simpsons on FOX returns for season 24 and so do some of Bart's ex girlfriends. He even makes a trip to New York City to see one of them. Also coming up, Marge wants to have another baby, Justin Bieber is at Bart's talent show, another Treehouse of Horror, more Fat Tony hi-jinx, and Edward Norton as a minister. (Sept. 30)

At 9pm........ it's the Good Wife on CBS versus Revenge on ABC at a new night and time. Both are arguably nighttime soap operas of sorts and both star with a woman in the main role.

The Good Wife enters its fourth season with the firm having some financial issues. I guess everyone is affected by this economy if we're being realistic. Kalinda's ex returns and proves to be dangerous. A lot of backstory is going to be developed. Will Alicia and Kalinda patch up their friendship? How much will Alicia and the kids be in Peter's campaign. (Sept. 30)

Revenge was my favorite new drama last year and left us with so many questions and loose ends last season. It was explosive, and I do mean literally. We'll learn who lived or died of the following ladies: Victoria, Charlotte, and Lydia. Is "Amanda"  really having Jack's child, or does this baby belong to someone else? Emily gets a new love interest this season, someone from her past resurfaces. Nolan gets a lady "friend" in his life. Daniel and Ashley use each other, and Daniel really starts to look like a Grayson through and through. Jennifer Jason Leigh joins the cast as Emily, I mean Amanda's, mother. Emily found out that she was alive at the end of last season, and now she has to find her. Season one was absolutely addictive and I am hoping this season will follow suit. If you haven't seen Revenge now, there's a great feature on the website that will get you caught up on everything you need to know. (Sept. 30)

At 10pm

ABC premieres a new series called 666 Park Avenue, the premise of the show is interesting. Terry O'Quinn and Vanessa Williams star as owners of an apartment building where tenants can move in but cannot move out. The two new managers of the building try to figure out why certain tenants don't last a long time. (Sept. 30)