A: TNT recently announced that Eric would be starring in its new original series "Perception," about an eccentric neuroscientist (Dr. Daniel Pierce, played by Eric) who helps solve complex criminal cases. The show also stars Rachael Leigh Cook and Kelly Rowan (“The O.C.”). The series will be 10 episodes long and will join the network’s lineup in summer 2012.
This isn’t Eric’s first foray into drama, by far, as he also starred in "The Andromeda Strain," "Who Is Clark Rockefeller?" and "Lonesome Dove," to name just a few. Also, if you happen to subscribe to Netflix or HuluPlus, you must check out his 2004 three-episode guest-starring appearance on "Dead Like Me" (which you can rent or stream) to see a side of Eric you’ve probably never seen before.
Q: Can you tell when/if "Californication" will return for another season? — John D., Columbus, Ohio
A: The David Duchovny-starring dark comedy will be back for its fifth season on Showtime beginning Jan. 8, 2012. This season will see author Hank Moody (David) even more popular (and richer) than ever after his biopic is released. Rob Lowe reprises his role as Eddie Nero, as does Madeleine Martin as Becca and Natascha McElhone as Karen. Also, Marcy and Stu continue their relationship, even though she is pregnant with ex-husband Charlie’s baby. And don’t think Ben (and his daughter Pearl) are out of the picture: The season opens with Karen, Ben, Becca and Pearl on a cross-country RV road trip.
Q: I love Joseph Fiennes and think he is absolutely superb as Merlin in "Camelot." Will he and the show be back for a second season? — Sally T., via e-mail
A: I am sorry to report that Starz has decided not to continue with the "Camelot" series, citing production difficulties. Starz released this statement to somewhat explain its position: "Due to significant production challenges, Starz has decided not to exercise the option for subsequent seasons of ‘Camelot’ with our production partners GK-tv, Octagon Films and Take 5 Productions." This certainly comes as a surprise to many viewers, considering the premiere of "Camelot" garnered the highest ratings ever for an original series on Starz, and continued to pull in high numbers for an original cable series.
Q: Why isn’t "30 Rock" on NBC’s fall schedule? I didn’t hear anything about it being canceled! — Janet F. in Florida
A: Don’t worry, Janet! "30 Rock" will be back for its sixth season at the beginning of 2012. NBC decided to postpone its premiere, mainly because of Tina Fey’s pregnancy and also to give a jump-start to some of its freshman comedies.
