Q and A: Week of Aug. 21

Jamie Gray Hyder

Q: Can you tell me about the actress who plays Lucia on “Graceland”? She looks familiar to me. What else has she been on? — Patrick J., via email

A: Jamie Gray Hyder is perhaps best known for playing Danielle, a werewolf in Alcide’s pack, last season on “True Blood.” After her “TB” stint ended, she went on to co-star on “Graceland” as Lucia Solano, who is just trying to live life on the straight and narrow — unlike her brother, Carlito, and the rest of her family. I spoke with Jamie recently about her new role, as well as what we can expect as “Graceland” wraps up its second season on the USA network.

“Lucia wants to get a real job and be independent and prosperous, in a legal way. She wants to be able to live a normal life and have normal relationships. She doesn’t get to have friends or lovers, because those relationships are constantly ruined by the antics of her brother and the rest of her family. She’s just striving for normalcy and is constantly being dragged through the mud.”

She did give me a little tease as to what to expect in the finale: “It’s a two-part finale, and it’s definitely designed to leave everyone wanting more. I just got done shooting it, and it’s all very fresh in my mind. I’ll tell you this, when I read the finale, I was shocked.”

Q: Is it true that there is going to be another “Terminator” movie? — Kalli R., Modesto, Calif.

A: Arnold Schwarzenegger will be back on July 1, 2015 as the aforementioned Terminator in “Terminator: Genisys.” The fifth installment of the futuristic action series also stars Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen of “Game of Thrones”) as Sarah Connor, Jason Clarke (no relation to Emilia) as John Connor, and Jai Courtney (Eric in the “Divergent” trilogy) as Kyle Reese. I am curious as to the timeline of this film, because Emilia and Jai are in their 20s, and Jason, who plays their son, John, is in his 40s. So, I’ll guess that some crisscrossing time-travel component definitely will play a part in this movie (as in all the “Terminator” films).

Q: What has Adrien Brody been doing lately? — Gina T., via email

A: Next up for Adrien is starring as the great magician-showman Henry Houdini in “Houdini,” the History Channel original miniseries, which airs Sept. 1 and 2 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. The miniseries follows the epic tales of Harry Houdini as he emerges as America’s first bona-fide world-renowned superstar. “Houdini” delves deep behind the curtain into his life through his stunts, visions and mastery of illusion.

Q: Will my favorite summer series, “Suits,” be back for another season? — Fallon F., via email

A: USA’s hit legal dramedy, which had its midseason finale Aug. 20, has indeed been renewed for a 16-episode fifth season. Also, look for the second half of season four in spring 2015.

Q: Will my favorite show, “Fargo,” be back for another season? — Paul R., via email

A: You betcha! FX has renewed the critically acclaimed drama — which is based on the Coen brothers’ hit movie of the same name — for a second season, especially after it racked up 18 Emmy nominations! Season two, which will consist of 10 episodes, most likely will air in fall 2015, although no specific date has been set.

Adam Korson, photo by Diana Ragland

Q: I had been watching this new show on the CW network called “Seed,” and I really liked it. Now I can’t find it anywhere. Can you tell me what happened to it? — George S., via email

A: The Canadian comedy (to which the CW bought the rights) is about a 30-something ne’er-do-well — and previous sperm donor — who becomes acquainted with the offspring he never knew he had. It didn’t do so well in the ratings and was canceled after two shows. The CW has said it plans to air the remaining episodes online.

This truly is a shame for American audiences because I had the pleasure of interviewing series star Adam Korson about the show, and he’s truly one of the nicest people you could ever meet. In Adam’s words about the show: “This is a show for those who want a half-hour to laugh and escape from your everyday life. You’re going to watch it, and you’re going to relate to it. I remember as a kid I would tune into ‘Seinfeld’ because I knew for that half-hour, I was going to be laughing and be taken on a crazy journey. I think that’s good television, and that’s what our show is.”

Q: I’ve loved Portia de Rossi ever since “Ally McBeal,” and especially in “Arrested Development,” but I haven’t seen her in anything lately. What can I see her in next? — Kellie Y., Bowling Green, Ohio



A: The gorgeous and talented actress — and wife of Ellen DeGeneres — will be hitting the small screen this fall when she appears in a multi-episode arc of the hit ABC political drama “Scandal.” And what better way to announce your next project than by your wife “accidentally” letting it slip on Twitter? Ellen recently announced to her millions of Twitter followers: “So annoying when people brag on Twitter, and that’s why I’m not tweeting that Portia just signed on to do a top-secret arc on Scandal. Oops.” “Scandal” returns for its fourth season on Sept. 25 at 9/8c. (Note the time change from last season.)

Q: Can you tell me what Naomi Watts has coming up? She is always such a joy to watch. — Nathan H., Fresno, Calif.

A: The versatile and award-winning actress recently started work in a prominent role in ”Insurgent“ and ”Allegiant,“ movies two and three of the ”Divergent“ trilogy. Naomi plays Evelyn, mother of Four and leader of an insurgent rebel group, the Factionless. She’ll also give viewers more of a glimpse into the background of her son, Four (played by Theo James), the restrained and self-contained Dauntless leader. Shooting began this summer in Atlanta, and is scheduled for a March 20, 2015 premiere date.

Q: Is ”Boardwalk Empire“ returning for another season? — Gord, Mission, British Columbia

A: The Emmy Award-winning HBO drama will return for its fifth and final season on Sept. 7. This eight-episode season takes place during the depths of the Depression in 1931, wherein Enoch ”Nucky“ Thompson (played by Steve Buscemi) recalls his Atlantic City roots and plots a post-Prohibition future. Says series creator Terence Winter: ”We look forward to bringing it to a powerful and exciting conclusion.“

Katheryn Winnick

Q: Do you have any news about “Vikings”? — Bob L. in Minnesota

A: I do have some casting news: History announced that for season three of the hit historical drama, Lothaire Bluteau will portray Emperor Charles of France, a powerful man who views battling the Vikings as spiritual and earthly; Kevin Durand will play the Wanderer, a mysterious man who is not what he seems; Morgane Polanski has been cast as Princess Gisla, the elegant, self-possessed daughter of Emperor Charles; and Ben Robson will play Kalf, Lagertha’s (Katheryn Winnick) trusted second in command.

Q: I can’t seem to get enough of “Falling Skies”! Can you tell me if it will be back next summer? — Dean P., via email

A: “Falling Skies” will indeed return to TNT next summer to wrap up its epic story during its fifth (and final) season. Ten new episodes in summer 2015 will tie a pretty (or not-so-pretty) bow on the hit sci-fi drama, and I’m hoping that all of our questions will be answered. But, now that I think about it, I kind of hope all of our questions WON’T be answered so there will be a reason for a future big-screen version of the series (like “Star Trek” and “The X-Files”).

And speaking of hit dramas, TNT also has renewed two more of its chart-topping summer series: Freshman drama “The Last Ship” will be back for a 13-episode season two (up from a 10-episode first season). Courtroom/crime drama “Major Crimes” also has been renewed for a fourth season, with a 15-episode order.

Q: My mom told me that she heard my favorite book, “The Red Tent,” is being made into a movie. Is that true? If so, can you tell me what you know about it? — Jessica G., Reno, Nevada

A: Production began in May in Morocco on Lifetime’s major two-night miniseries “The Red Tent,” which is based on the best-selling novel by Anita Diamant. For those unfamiliar with the book, “The Red Tent” is the sweeping tale of Dinah, the daughter of Leah and Jacob, who was seen only in small glimpses in the Old Testament. The miniseries will air later this year, and stars Minnie Driver, Morena Baccarin, Rebecca Ferguson (as Dinah), Iain Glen, Will Tudor and Debra Winger.

The miniseries begins with Dinah’s happy childhood spent inside the red tent, where only the women of her tribe are allowed to gather and share the traditions and turmoil of ancient womanhood. Told through Dinah’s eyes, the film recounts the story of her mothers Leah (Minnie), Rachel (Morena), Zilpah and Bilhah — the four wives of Jacob (Iain) — and Jacob’s courtship of them. The saga continues as Dinah matures and experiences an intense love that subsequently leads to a devastating loss, changing her and her family’s lives forever. Debra portrays Rebecca, Jacob’s mother, while Will stars as Joseph, Dinah’s brother.

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Q and A: Week of April 7

Katherine Heigl

Q: I haven’t seen my favorite actress, Katherine Heigl, in a while. Will she be back on TV soon, or is she a full-fledged movie star now? — Penny T., via email

A: While Katherine is still a big-screen draw — she has four movies coming out within a year of each other — she hasn’t forgotten her small-screen roots. Katherine — who got her big break on ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy” — is set to return to series television to star in NBC’s “State of Affairs,” a drama about a CIA attache (Katherine) who advises the president on “high-stakes incidents around the world” while trying to manage her complicated personal life. The pilot has been shot, and things are looking good for a series pickup.

Speaking of “Grey’s Anatomy,” Isaiah Washington is set to return to the series as Dr. Preston Burke for an episode in May. The show’s creator, Shonda Rhimes, told “The Wrap” that Isaiah’s character is vital to wrapping up the story of Sandra Oh’s character, Cristina Yang. Shonda revealed: “It's important to me that Cristina’s journey unfolds exactly as it should. Burke is vital to that journey — he gives her story that full-circle moment we need to properly say goodbye to our beloved Cristina Yang.”

Q: Please tell me that the rumors of a Journey reunion with Steve Perry are true! — Samuel D., Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

A: Not yet … but word is that they are closer than ever to working things out. In a recent interview, Steve said: “We're trying. It’s tough. I’m doing my best in that area, and I can only do so much. The older I get, the more I do realize how important what we all had together and how it worked. … I brought things out of them, and they certainly brought a lot of my vocal stuff out of me — just [lifting] each other to this place that you can’t get to alone. I think that’s probably the biggest chemistry thing I recognize now.”

And Journey’s founder, Neal Schon, wrote on his Facebook page recently: “I hope we can reach out to each other and connect once again. We had amazing chemistry together. I love him with all the love and admiration you could even have. Steve, let’s talk soon.” I have all of my fingers and toes crossed for a reunion!

Q: Can you tell me when “Falling Skies” will return? I can’t wait! — Jimmy F., via email

A: The fourth season of TNT’s hit series “Falling Skies,” which stars Noah Wylie and Will Patton, premieres Sunday, June 22 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. The series is about life and survival in the wake of a catastrophic alien invasion. Before that at 9 p.m., check out the new action series “The Last Ship,” from executive producer Michael Bay and starring Eric Dane. The series is about a Navy vessel that may be humanity’s last hope in the wake of a worldwide catastrophe.

Q: With “Games of Thrones” returning for its fourth season this past Sunday, it got me wondering what Sean Bean is up to. Can you tell me what he’ll be in next? — Alicia W., via email

Sean Bean in TNT's Legends

A: Beginning in August, Sean stars in the new TNT action-thriller series called “Legends,” which is set to premiere Wednesday, Aug. 20, at 9 p.m. ET/PT. The story centers on Sean’s character, Martin Odum, who plays a deep-undercover FBI agent who may be losing his grip on reality. Martin has the ability to transform himself into a completely different person for each job, but he begins to question his own identity when a mysterious stranger suggests that Martin isn’t the man he believes himself to be. The series comes from “Homeland” executive producers Howard Gordon and Alexander Cary, and “Fringe” co-executive producer David Wilcox, and co-stars Ali Carter, Morris Chestnut, Amber Valletta, Steve Harris, and Tina Majorino.

Q: I was happy to read in your column that Kiss will be inducted into the Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame tonight. Will they be touring to support their induction? — Gary T., Cleveland, Ohio

A: Kiss will indeed be embarking on a joint project this summer, co-headlining with hard-rock superstars Def Leppard in a 42-city summer stadium tour, which will run from June 23 to Aug. 31. Def Leppard’s lead singer, Joe Elliott, said that he and Kiss bassist, Gene Simmons, first discussed the idea of the two bands touring together when he and Gene played some South American dates two years ago as part of a rock-and-roll all-stars tour. “It’s finally happened, which is fantastic,” Joe said. Also, a dollar from each ticket sold on the tour will go to the Wounded Warrior Project and other military nonprofits. (Go to livenation.com for ticket info.)

Q: Starz canceled “Magic City” just as season two ended. What a disappointment. The show was never given much publicity, but it was wonderfully done. I love it and miss it so much, and so do my friends. Is there any chance of “Magic City” going to another cable network? — Dale P., Fort Worth, Texas

A: While I never say never (see “Scrubs” and “Cougar Town” for examples), there hasn’t been much talk about the series continuing. Set in 1959 in Miami shortly after the Cuban Revolution, “Magic City” centered on the story of Ike Evans, played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan, who owned Miami’s most glamorous hotel, the Miramar Playa. I do have slightly good news for you, though: The entire 16-episode “Magic City” series will be released by Starz and Anchor Bay on Blu-ray and DVD on May 13, 2014.

Q: Can you tell me if “Unforgettable” will be back? — Tom V., The Villages, Fla.

A: The CBS drama series starring Poppy Montgomery as Carrie Wells, a woman with hyperthymesia — a rare medical condition that gives her the ability to visually remember everything — will return with a 13-episode third season beginning in June.

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Q and A: Week of July 22

Q: I’ve been rewatching one of my favorite shows, Masterpiece Mystery’s “Sherlock,” and I’m hoping you’ll tell me that it’ll be back for a third series. With Benedict Cumberbatch’s and Martin Freeman’s big-screen careers really taking off, I’m worried they won’t have time for this delightful PBS show. — Darlene W., via e-mail

A: Benedict and Martin are both on board for the third installment of the hit British mystery series — as Sherlock Holmes and John Watson, respectively — with “Sherlock” scheduled to begin airing new episodes in early 2014. You also can see them both together on the big screen (again) in the second and third installments of “The Hobbit” trilogy — as the Necromancer and Bilbo Baggins, respectively — when “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” hits theaters on Dec. 13, 2013, and “The Hobbit: There and Back Again” on Dec. 17, 2014. 

If you want to see them earlier than this, then I suggest watching (or rewatching) Benedict's outstanding performance in "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy," alongside the all-star cast of Gary Oldman, Colin Firth and John Hurt. And my all-time favorite Martin project has to be the U.K. version of "The Office." The writing is sharp and witty, the acting is aces, and the chemistry between Martin and series star (and creator) Ricky Gervais is phenomenal.

Q: Is it true that a new “Chucky” horror movie is going to be made? — Freddie H. in Idaho

A: “The Curse of Chucky,” which premiered at Montreal’s Fantasia International Film Festival earlier this month, will be heading to DVD on Oct. 8. Brad Dourif once again provides the voice for the homicidal doll, while his real-life daughter, Fiona, stars in this sixth movie of the horror franchise.

Q: “Falling Skies” is really outdoing itself this season. Please tell me that it will return next summer with a new season. — Gary T., via e-mail

A: TNT’s execs and fans of the apocalyptic Earth-saving, alien-battling show feel the same way you do. The Noah Wyle-starring series, which wraps up its third season Aug. 4, has been renewed for a 10-episode fourth season to air summer 2014.

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Q and A: Week of April 22

Q: My favorite new show this year far and away is “Vikings.” Will we get another season, or was this a one-season deal? — Patrick L., via email

A: The History Channel has picked up “Vikings” — its first scripted drama series — for a 10-episode second season. As of now, “Vikings” continues to be the No. 1 new cable series of 2013, and has launched History to No. 1 in cable in its Sunday 10 p.m. time period.

Dirk Hoogstra — executive vice president of development and programming — says of the show’s renewal: “Vikings is a win-win for us. As our first scripted series, ’Vikings’ has paid off in a big way, with critical acclaim, strong ratings and a passionate, loyal fan base. We could not be more proud of the entire cast and crew and everyone involved in the making of ’Vikings.’ Season two will begin production this summer to air in 2014.”

Q: Is it true they are making a “Finding Nemo” sequel? I really hope so because I really loved that movie. — Jane S., Tampa, Fla.

A: You heard correctly. In the new movie, Ellen Degeneres’ character, Dory, will be the focus, with the movie appropriately named “Finding Dory.” While it’s still super early in the production process, there is a little bit I can tell you about the movie. The new film picks up about a year after the action of “Finding Nemo,” with Ellen’s forgetful fish Dory on her own adventure to reunite with loved ones. According to Disney, the film will feature new characters along with familiar ones, including Nemo and his dad, Marlin.

Q: “Bates Motel” is gloriously and exquisitely creepy, and is one of my favorite shows of the season. There’s still lots more story that can be told, so please tell me that A and E will bring it back for another season. — Erica F., Birmingham, Ala.

A: The first season of “Bates Motel” premiered as the most-watched scripted drama in the history of the A and E Network, so you can bet that Vera Farmiga and Freddie Highmore will be back for more mouth-dropping drama. Production begins later this year on a 10-episode second season, which will air in 2014.

Q: I really enjoy MTV’s “Teen Wolf.” It seems like it has been off the air for a long while. When does it return? — Frankie, via email

A: You won’t have to wait much longer, Frankie. Season three begins June 3, with the show picking up four months after season two ended. It also will be a super-size season of 24 episodes, with lots of new cast members: twin alphas Ethan and Aiden (played by Charlie and Max Carver), alpha leader Deucalion (Gideon Emery), alpha wolf Kali (Felisha Terrell) and tough 17-year-old Cora (Adelaide Kane), who has her own ties to the werewolves.

Mary McDonnell

Q: Will “Major Crimes“ be back? I enjoyed the first season and felt it had a good cast. Hope we will see them again. — Amma B., via e-mail

A: As I reported in an earlier column, “Major Crimes,” which stars Mary McDonnell and is a spinoff of “The Closer,” will return for a 15-episode second season. But now I have a premiere date to give you: June 10 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. I have a few more premiere dates of TNT favorites to reveal.

Season three of “Falling Skies” begins June 9 at 9 p.m. ET/PT with a two-hour season premiere. Gloria Reuben (Noah Wyle’s fellow “ER” alum) and Robert Sean Leonard (“House”) are set to guest-star this season. Season four of “Rizzoli and Isles” will start up Tuesday, June 25 at 9 p.m. ET/PT, followed by the second-season premiere of “Perception” at 10 p.m. “Franklin and Bash” kicks off its third season on Wednesday, June 19 at 9 p.m. ET/PT, as Heather Locklear joins the cast as the firm’s newest partner.

Q: Since Jimmy Fallon will be taking over “The Tonight Show” when Jay Leno retires, does this mean Conan O’Brien could return to “Late Night”? — Debbi W., Akron, Ohio

A: Jimmy will be taking over “The Tonight Show” beginning in fall 2014. TBS recently announced that Conan’s show has been renewed through November 2015. In Hollywood, anything is possible, but if Conan were to return to NBC, it would have to be when his contract with TBS is up. If they need someone to host “Late Night” during the one-year interim, my vote is with Joel McHale.

Q: Will “The Great Gatsby” ever be released? I remember it was supposed to come out around Christmas, but I’ve heard nothing about it since. — Nina H., The Villages, Fla.

A: Leonardo DiCaprio again teams up with director Baz Luhrmann to star in this drama based on the book we all read in high school (and was one of my all-time favorites). “The Great Gatsby” will be making its way to theaters on May 10.

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Interview: Connor Jessup Comes of Age

As the second season of "Falling Skies" comes to a close, I had the opportunity to talk with series star Connor Jessup, who plays Ben Mason, the son of Tom Mason (played by Noah Wylie), the co-head of the 2nd Mass rebellion against the alien invasion. Connor gave me some inside scoop as to what to expect for the second-season finale of the Steven Spielberg-produced sci-fi phenomenon (which airs Sunday night on TNT).

Celebrity Extra: Without divulging too much, what can you tell me about the season finale?

Connor Jessup: Let's see ... Some new people and some new characters come in and some interesting twists come up , and this is all very general and very vague, but I can’t really go into too much more. I can say that at the end of the season, there’s a tremendous cliffhanger that boggled me when I read it, so hopefully it will boggle every one else when they watch it. The final two minutes especially are not to be missed.

CE: This has been a great opportunity for you as an actor, to have a character that has grown so much, and who has a really great story arc to present. How did you prepare to play this character?

CJ: I feel really lucky. I had this character presented to me — pretty much a full season-long arc, with each episode itself being a little arc — on a silver platter, which is something you don’t expect to be as fleshed out as it was. So, a lot of my work was done for me before I even arrived, in terms of creating this character. I just happened to be in the right place at the right time in terms of his situation and his experiences and his past to work into these new plot lines that these writers came up with. So, I was just enjoying it because last season was totally different experience. I didn’t get to participate in any of the action. This season it ramped up a lot. I have scenes with all the characters. I was in almost every action sequence. I got to participate in a whole bunch of really, really fun challenging stuff that I never got to do before and that way it felt like a totally different job. Those characters interest me if they can be done well, and our writers can do them well. I’m just excited to see what they cook up for season three.

CE: Season two was a big difference for you, compared with season one ...

CJ: Yeah, definitely. In season one, there was a big difference in age. In season one, I was 16 and we’re shooting in Toronto, and the regulations are somewhat different, so the most I could work was 12 hours a day, and two of those hours had to be tutoring and then another hour for lunch. So, it’s really just nine hours a day, which is not that long on a film set. I didn’t participate in any of the action sequences, which take place almost exclusively at night, so I was shooting mostly during the day. So for me, it was relatively like a 9-to-5 job. But season two was an entirely different ballgame because I finally got a taste of the medicine of what everybody else had been going through for a year. I was 17, and the regulations there mean that when you turn 17 you can work as long as an adult. So suddenly I was working 16 to 17 hour days every day, doing night shoots every day. It became a totally different experience for me and suddenly I felt like I was with everybody else going through the most difficult times because there’s nothing quite like being on set at 6 o’clock in the morning when you’ve been shooting for 17 hours and looking around and everybody else seeing how exhausted everybody is and everyone is sort of hysterical by that point. It’s a real bonding moment.

CE: In what ways can you relate to Ben?

CJ: I felt like Ben last season was much more like I am in real life in terms of I am somewhat bookish and I wouldn’t be much good in a battle. He wasn’t exactly like me, but there are more similarities. This season Ben is cold, distant, angry, violent. I’m generally not an angry or violent or hateful person for the most part. So that part of Ben was foreign to me, which is fun because as an actor, that’s a little more challenging. What I do like about Ben, what I think everyone could relate to, is that he under all this coldness and hardness that he’s built up between the two seasons is also a kind of childlike innocence and optimism that still hasn’t quite been shattered by the horrors of war. It's because of that optimism and childlike quality that he grasps so quickly onto the idea of a skitter rebellion and skitter resistance. He’s so optimistic about this for very little reason. You do feel like there’s a conflict between the new and the old, the adult and the child, and that exemplifies that conflict. And that’s what I’ve found most interesting. I like to call it puberty on steroids.

CE: A few months back, I interviewed Will Patton, who plays Capt. Weaver, and he is nothing like you'd expect if you went only by his character ...

CJ: Isn’t he the best? I love that guy. He has a caramel core. He’s like the sweetest, kindest man I’ve ever met. I could sing Will Patton’s praises for a year because he’s the most down to earth man, but so unbelievably dedicated. He puts all of us to shame. I don’t want to go on and on and on about Will Patton, but he’s one of my favorite people in the world.

CE: Are you excited for the season finale? Will jaws be dropping?

CJ: I think so, because mine did. It’s always interesting because for me, reading the script is entirely different from watching it on TV, obviously because it’s not quite the same with the visuals and the special effects and acting. But my jaw dropped when I read the ending, so I imagine anyone’s will. It’s quite the ending and it’s quite unexpected, and it doesn’t feel like a lot of cliffhangers on a lot of shows. I feel like this one makes sense in the context of the show and also it expands the scope of the show unbelievably. I hope everyone enjoys it.

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Q and A: Week of Aug. 13

Beth Riesgraf

Q: I am so happy that “Leverage” has started a new season. Can you tell me what to look for this season? — Geoff F., via e-mail

A: I recently spoke with Beth Riesgraf, who plays Parker, the Leverage team’s resident thief, cat burglar, pickpocket and safecracker extraordinaire. Like you, Beth is excited for the action/dramedy’s fifth season, telling me: “All I can say is that there is a reason that we are in Portland, and there will be a payoff to that toward the end of the season.

“For Parker personally, she’s in a good place. Now she’s able to be a part of something bigger, and she’s able to socialize. No one’s going to (mess) with her because she’s still got her edge, and she’s smart as a whip. I think she’s opened up socially and emotionally. Some of those boundaries have been let down and she kind of understands how to get along in society.”

Q: I haven’t heard much about the upcoming movie “The Lone Ranger,” starring my favorite actor, Johnny Depp. Please tell me that the movie is still being made and will be released! — Pauli A., Colchester, Vt.

A: The big-screen version of the small-screen classic — starring Johnny Depp as Tonto and Armie Hammer as the Lone Ranger — is on track for a July 3, 2013, release. The movie, which also stars Johnny’s “Sweeney Todd” co-star Helena Bonham Carter, ran into some delays earlier on due to rewrites, and more recently because of budgetary concerns.

Connor Jessup

Q: I really like the actor who plays Ben on TNT’s “Falling Skies.” Can you tell me more about him? — Leanne W., Salem, Mass.

A: Toronto native Connor Jessup — who plays the middle son of Noah Wylie’s character, Tom Mason — started acting at the age of 11 and counts among his loves directing, writing and producing along with acting. The 18-year-old stars in the big-screen drama “Blackbird,” which premieres at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, where he will be presented with the Toronto Rising Star Award (along with three or four other recipients).

Connor is thrilled to be chosen as a Rising Star, and he told me: “TIFF means a lot to me. It’s a big part of my life. It was probably a main factor in influencing my love of movies and my discovery of film. I’m very honored to be chosen, especially since it’s my hometown, home festival. I’m looking forward to it.”

Q: I love the new “Dallas” — it’s just what I’ve been missing from my regular TV lineup. Will it be back for another season? — Gail W., via e-mail

A: I wholeheartedly agree with you. I got chills as I watched the premiere episode and those familiar strains of the “Dallas” theme started up. TNT has indeed renewed the hit series. The network has ordered 15 episodes for its second season, which is scheduled to air in 2013.

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Q and A: Week of July 30

Q: I heard a rumor that Steven Tyler won’t be back as a judge on “American Idol.” Please tell me it isn’t true. He’s one of the main reasons that I watch the show! — Diana W. in West Virginia

A: The Aerosmith rocker recently announced he will indeed quit the show to focus on the band. Steven said, in true Steven style: “I’ve decided it’s time for me to let go of my mistress, 'American Idol,’ before she boils my rabbit. I strayed from my first love, Aerosmith, and I’m back.” His news came the day before Jennifer Lopez announced that she, too, was leaving the show. I’ll tell you, I wouldn’t mind seeing Richard Marx in one of the judges’ chairs.

Q: Please tell me that “Falling Skies” will be back next summer for another season! — Jeffrey D., via e-mail

A: TNT’s blockbuster science-fiction drama about how the world fights back after an alien invasion definitely will be back next summer for a 10-episode third season. This no-brainer decision (“Falling Skies” is cable’s No. 1 drama in the 18 to 49 age market, and is No. 2 in 25 to 54, behind TNT’s other breakout hit, “Dallas”) will continue the quest of Noah Wylie’s Mason, Will Patton’s Weaver and Moon Bloodgood’s Dr. Glass as they lead the 2nd Mass resistance group toward survival and, hopefully, the kicking of some alien butt off the planet Earth.

Q: What has Shaquille O’Neal been up to lately? — Roger G., Franklin, Miss.

A: Shaq just signed on to star in a new series for truTV tentatively titled “Upload with Shaquille O’Neal.” The show will be hosted by comedian Gary Owen and co-star Shaq and comedian Godfrey, as well as a special guest for each of the 10 episodes. They will scour the Internet looking for the funniest online videos to comment on, and they’ll also create their own viral videos, pull pranks and parody current pop-culture stories.


Shaq had this to say about his new venture: “I’ve been a fan of truTV for a long time, and I look forward to working with my good friends Gary Owen and Godfrey. I’ve always tried to entertain people, and I know this show will deliver big laughs.”

Q: I remember a while back that Kelsey Grammer announced he and his wife were expecting. Has she had her baby yet? — Barbara D., via e-mail

A: Kelsey, 57, and Kayte, 31, announced earlier this year that they ecstatic couple were expecting twins. Kayte gave birth to a healthy baby girl in mid-July, but tragically, the baby’s twin brother did not survive. The couple said in a joint statement: “A glorious birth with a lingering sadness is ours today. We choose to celebrate the life that has been given us. We proudly introduce our Faith (Evangeline Elisa Grammer) to the world today looking forward to the days ahead and the children yet to come.”

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Q and A: Week of July 2

Q: I was thrilled to read in your column that “Falling Skies” is back on TNT, and I am loving every minute of season two. Can you give me any spoilers for what to expect in coming episodes? — Jack I., via e-mail

A: I spoke with series star and all-around good guy Will Patton recently (but keep the “all-around good guy” comment between us, as Will’s Capt. Weaver has a tough-guy rep to protect!), and while he didn’t want to ruin any surprises for the fans, he did give me a little bit of a scoop on what’s to become of 2nd Mass.


“We’re all working toward a common goal, with some dissension. Many of us have bonded in a new way. I think those of us who can step up to the plate and have a solidity are becoming more solid. For those who aren’t, it’s becoming more clear that they’re not, and it becomes a little more troublesome,” he said. “I think we’re going to go through hell, that’s what I can tell you. We go through a lot of hell, but there are moments of blue sky. I think there’s probably more moments of blue sky in this season than there were in last season, but there’s a great deal of dark danger too.”


That “dark danger” is what makes Weaver so much fun for Will to play, as well as letting viewers catch a glimpse of his softer side. Will told me: “It’s very interesting when you think about what it would be like to have to command in a situation like this. What is it you would have to do is maybe not what you would think, and being fair is not necessarily what we would normally think it would be.


“I think it requires not allowing people to see certain things about you. The greatest commanders had to find ways to wear masks, which was the greatness of their command. That’s what’s interesting about Weaver: When that mask comes down a little bit, it’s powerful. That’s intriguing to me about people because I think we all, in order to survive, have to pretend sometimes to be something that we’re not.”

Q: Both “NCIS” and “Missing” did not caption their finale show with “to be continued.” I am anxious to find out if they will return to TV in the fall? — P.R., via e-mail

A: “NCIS” consistently places in the top 20 — often top 10 — of television ratings, so you can bet it will be back for a 10th season. The Ashley Judd show, “Missing,” wasn’t so lucky. ABC decided to cancel the ratings-challenged series back in May.

Q: What has Charles Dutton been up to lately? — Gerry F., Atlanta

A: Charles has a new movie opening July 13 in select markets called “The Obama Effect,” which he stars in and marks his directorial debut. Keep an eye out for it in local theaters.

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Interview: Will Patton on Saving the World

Will Patton (photo by James Dittiger)

Veteran actor Will Patton has done it all — from his earlier work in Silkwood and Desperately Seeking Susan to his almost seamless transition to big-time Hollywood blockbusters like Armageddon and Remember the Titans to critically acclaimed TV shows like 24 and Numb3rs. Now Will has a new challenge in life: saving the world from aliens. Will co-stars in the TNT hit show Falling Skies — which airs Sunday nights at 9 ET/PT — commanding the 2nd Massachusetts Civilian Resistance Group. And when Will isn’t too busy saving the world or starring in feature films, he's earning awards and rave reviews for his narration of audiobooks. I spoke with the multitalented actor recently about the second season of the Steven Spielberg-produced action drama, and he’s excited for his fans to see what the show has in store for them.

[*Note: This interview contains minor spoilers for those who haven't seen the two-hour premiere episode that aired this past Sunday.]

Celebrity Extra: Talk to me about Capt. Weaver: What are some of his qualities that you admire or that you can relate to?

Will Patton: It’s very interesting when you think about what it would be like to have to command in a situation like this. What you would have to do is maybe not what you would think, and being fair is not necessarily what we would normally think it would be. I think it requires not allowing people to see certain things about you. The greatest commanders had to find ways to wear masks, which was the greatness of their command. That’s what’s interesting about Weaver: When that mask comes down a little bit, it’s powerful. That’s intriguing to me about people, because I think we all, in order to survive, have to pretend sometimes to be something that we’re not.

CE: What can you tell me about the fate of the 2nd Mass and what they are going to face?

WP: We’re all working toward a common goal, with some dissension. Many of us have bonded in a new way. I think those of us who can step up to the plate and have a solidity are becoming more solid. For those who aren’t, it’s becoming clearer that they’re not, and it becomes a little more troublesome. I think we’re going to go through hell, that’s what I can tell you, but there are moments of blue sky. I think there are probably more moments of blue sky in this season than there were last season, but there’s a great deal of dark danger, too.

CE: One of the things I like about the show is there’s a really good balance of action scenes versus human-interaction scenes.

WP: I think so, too. It’s what interests me — it’s kind of like a weird metaphor, which I think a lot of people are feeling, like: “Is this world going to completely fall apart? And if it does, how will I really behave?”

CE: In the second episode of this season, when Tom returns from the alien ship and they discover he has that tracker thing in his eye, and Anne has to remove it ...

WP: Ew! That’s one of the craziest scenes! That scene was one of the craziest scenes I’ve ever been involved with in my whole life, and I actually really liked it because it was so far-out. I remember when we were shooting it, we were just like our minds were blown by the situation.

Will Patton (with Noah Wylie, photo by Ken Woroner)

CE: Can you take me through, say, a day in the life on the Falling Skies set?


WP: (Laughs) Because we’re shooting outside in Vancouver in winter, mostly at night, it’s freezing. Every actor got sick at one point or another, so in that way, there is a certain amount of survival that’s required. It’s like you’re shooting a whole action movie in eight days. Everyone on this crew has a really great work ethic. And every day is different, so there’s not an average day on this show. You never know what you’re going to be doing. One day you’re fighting skitters, and the next day you’re in a really intense emotional situation with another character, or you’re exploring something that you never thought about before that has to do with your life and your love. But really, a day for me is just coming in and deciding how to best make sure that I command 2nd Mass properly.

CE: Now, aside from Falling Skies, I see you’re keeping really busy with other roles. Tell me about The Girl, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival this spring.

WP: It was a beautiful script, which we shot in Mexico last summer. I have high hopes for it. I think it’s quite a beautiful story. I really liked the director, David Riker, and Abbie Cornish (who stars) is great. The little Mexican girl who’s in it — Maritza Santiago Hernandez, about 8 years old — was just beautiful.

CE: And you were just out of town filming another movie. What movie was that, and what can you tell me about it?

WP: I finished filming it in Seattle just last week. It’s called You Can’t Win with Michael Pitt, which is a pretty interesting movie. It’s sort of a true narrative about bums and thieves in the late 1800s. It’s based on the book written by a guy named Jack Black — but not the Jack Black we know. It was a memoir based on his life and published in the early part of the 1900s. It was William S. Burroughs’ favorite book. It’s an interesting script, so I’m excited to see how that turns out.

CE: Aside from all your work in feature films, TV movies and TV series, I had no idea that you were so prolific in audiobook narration — about 40 books so far, including Jack Kerouac’s On the Road, Al Gore’s The Assault on Reason, Pat Frank’s Alas, Babylon and many more. You’ve also won numerous awards for your recordings. How did you get into that?

WP: When I was a kid, I always sort of lived inside books. There’s nothing more exciting than being able to sort of live a beautiful piece of literature by reading it aloud. It’s a great thing for actors to do, you know? It’s just you with a microphone, kind of doing a little play. I’d think any real actor would be excited by it. It’s hard to do, because it’s really important you don’t try to show how well you can act, and you make sure you’re staying out of the author’s way. You need to keep it as interesting as it really is without saying, “Here’s how good I’m reading it.” It’s a tricky little thing, and it’s a constant challenge. I find it to be very exciting work for an actor — as long as the book’s good.

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Q and A: Week of March 5

Annie Potts, Leslie Bibb (photo by Karen Neal/ABC)

Q: I love Annie Potts in just about everything I see her in, and her new show “GCB” is definitely included. Where does she get her inspiration for the fun and eclectic characters she portrays? — Ginny W., via e-mail

A: For her role of Gigi Stopper, Annie found inspiration from a dear friend, the late Dixie Carter, whom she starred with on “Designing Women.” I spoke with Annie recently about “GCB” — which I agree is a must-see — and she told me how she formed the character of Gigi: “I have lovingly borrowed from Dixie Carter. Were she still alive, the role would have been hers and should have been, but since she took early leave, I just decided to play it like her. I think that she would approve.

“Dixie was sensationally beautiful, religious, Republican, conservative and had two daughters whom she worshipped. She always had stockings on, and she was immaculately groomed all the time. Even if I went over there to her house early in the morning, she always looked good. And she was always in the pew on Sunday. I think that’s the way Gigi is.” See for yourself, and check out “GCB” on ABC Sundays at 10 p.m. ET.

Q: Will Noah Wylie’s new show, “Falling Skies,” be back for another season? It was my favorite new show of last season. — Frankie A., Charlotte, N.C.

A: “Falling Skies” will return to TNT this summer as part of its exciting original summer-programming lineup. “Lost” alumnus Terry O’Quinn will join Noah for at least two episodes, playing a mentor of sorts for Tom Mason.

Q: I loved “Wedding Crashers.” Will Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn make another movie soon? They are so good together. — Alec. D., via e-mail

A: A lot of people agree with you, including the dynamic comedy duo themselves: Owen and Vince have signed on to co-star together in the new big-screen comedy “Interns,” where they’ll play two middle-aged men forced to re-evaluate their careers after being laid off. It follows their resulting struggle to reclimb the corporate ladder.

Dear Readers: Because I get tons of letters asking about “The Waltons,” I wanted to share this programming information with you. The Hallmark Channel will air “A Walton Easter” on Saturday, March 31, at 6 p.m. ET/PT, 5 p.m. CT. The television movie, which originally aired in 1997, takes place in 1969, where John-Boy (Richard Thomas) is now a married New York TV news anchor and is writing a new book. When John-Boy and his very pregnant wife, Janet (Kate McNeil), join his family for the celebration of his parent’s 40th wedding anniversary, John-Boy yearns to move back to the mountain, which conflicts with Janet’s wishes to stay in New York.

Immediately following, enjoy “A Decade of the Waltons,” a family special that highlights the greatest moments from “The Waltons,” and is hosted by Earl Hammer Jr., creator and narrator of the original show.

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Q and A: Week of Aug. 1

Noah Wyle, photo by Ken Woroner

Q: Noah Wyle’s new show, “Falling Skies,” is wonderful. Do you know if it has been renewed for a second season? — Theresa D., Harrisburg, Pa.

A: You can bet your sweet bippy that TNT has renewed cable’s No. 1 new series for another season. The alien-invasion saga, which airs Sundays at 10 p.m. (ET/PT), also stars Moon Bloodgood, Will Patton and Drew Roy, and is executive-produced by Steven Spielberg. TNT has ordered 10 episodes for the second season, which will air summer 2012.

Q: I just saw a preview for the remake of “Dallas,” which excites me to no end. I was wondering if any of the other older nighttime soaps have plans for a remake, like “Falcon Crest” or “Knots Landing”? — Diedre D., via e-mail

A: So far, no plans are in the works, but of course, you can never say never. I spoke with Nicollette Sheridan recently, who co-starred as Paige Matheson in the sudster “Dallas” spinoff, and she told me: “I haven’t heard of anyone speaking about doing that. I think ‘Dallas’ was always flashier than ‘Knots Landing.’

“‘Knots Landing’ was a down-home, simpler, more-pained version. Very real people going through very real situations. But so far, no, I haven’t heard of any plans for doing that.” For now, you can catch Nicollette in the Hallmark Channel original movie, “Honeymoon for One,” which premieres Saturday, Aug. 13.

Q: I’ve seen commercials for a new police drama on Lifetime, but I didn’t catch the name of the show. Could tell me about it? — Derek F., Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

A: You’re thinking of “Against the Wall,” which is part police procedural, part family drama. It centers on a family of Chicago police officers, and stars Rachael Carpani, Brandon Quinn, Treat Williams and Kathy Baker. The show airs Sundays at 10 p.m. (ET/PT).

I spoke with Brandon Quinn, who plays Richie Kowalski, about the show: “The folks at Lifetime are really trying to re-identify themselves, and this show is definitely unlike anything else they have right now. It’s going to put them on the map. I’m really proud of this show. I would stack it up against any other show on network television right now.”

Q: I absolutely love the series “Bored to Death.” I read somewhere that Ted Danson is leaving the show to star in another show. Please tell me this isn’t true! — Hadley F., via e-mail

A: What you heard is only half-true. Ted is indeed going to star in another show; however, he won’t leave “Bored to Death.” He will remain a series regular on the HBO comedy that also stars Zach Galifianakis and Jason Schwartzman, and is slated to return for its third season this fall. Ted also has joined the cast of “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” where he’ll play the new supervisor for the Las Vegas CSI team. “CSI” returns for its 12th season Sept. 21.

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Q and A: Week of May 9

Q: I read somewhere that my all-time favorite band, KISS, is back in the studio working on a new album. Is that true? If so, when can we expect some new material from them? — Rodney G., via e-mail

A: It’s true: KISS is working on a new studio album. The band began recording in April, and lead singer/songwriter Paul Stanley told me that they expect to release the album in late fall or early 2012, depending on how things go. He said: “So far, it sounds phenomenal. It’ll be worth the wait, I promise.”


In the meantime, Paul also is working with the House Research Institute to help bring awareness to teen hearing loss. Having been born deaf in one ear as well as being a mega rock star, Paul knows all about protecting his hearing, and he wants to help spread the word any way he can. “Hearing loss affects kids, it affects teens, and it affects adults. I tell people, ‘If you won’t listen to somebody in a white coat, maybe you’ll listen to somebody in black leather.’”

For more info on how you can protect your hearing, go to earbud.org, and to learn more about Sound Rules! visit soundrules.org. Go here for my full interview with Paul.

Q: Will “Memphis Beat” and “Rizzoli and Isles” be back on TV? I’m already getting tired of all the summer reality shows! — Glenda F., via e-mail

A: “Memphis” and “Rizzoli” will be back this summer on TNT, starting June 14 and July 11, respectively. In fact, TNT recently announced its all-new summer programming slate, which includes two new series, “Franklin and Bash” with Mark-Paul Gosselaar and Breckin Meyer, and “Falling Skies” with Noah Wylie. Other returning series include “Men of a Certain Age” on June 1, “HawthoRNe” on June 14, “Leverage” on June 26 and “The Closer” on July 11. So get ready for some summertime drama, because TNT is filled to the brim with it!

Q: The Season 1 cliffhanger for Syfy’s “Being Human” had me on the edge of my seat. Please tell me it has been renewed for another season — I can’t wait to see what they come up with next! — Jackie H. in Montana

A: The vampire/werewolf/ghost fantasy-drama has been renewed for a second season by the Syfy network. In fact, the Season 1 finale shattered ratings records for the network. Although no official Season 2 premiere date has been given, I would assume to look for it come January 2012.

Q: I was happy to read in your column that “In Plain Sight” would be back on USA for a fourth and fifth season, but I read that star Mary McCormack is pregnant in real life. How will they handle it on the show? — Colleen V., Las Vegas

A: Mary and hubby Michael Morris are expecting their third child together. Mary told People magazine that her pregnancy will be written into the show, so it will be interesting to see what this means for her character, Mary Shannon.

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TNT Announces Its Summer Programming Schedule

New Series:

Franklin & Bash – Series premiere Wednesday, June 1, at 9 p.m. (ET/PT) – Season 1: 10 episodes

Mark-Paul Gosselaar (NYPD Blue) and Breckin Meyer (Road Trip) star in this light-hearted legal drama as two fly-by-the seat-of-their-pants lawyers working for a button-down law firm. Malcom McDowell (Heroes, Entourage) also stars as the head of their firm.

Falling Skies – Two-hour series premiere Sunday, June 19, at 9 p.m. (ET/PT); regular timeslot Sundays at 10 p.m. (ET/PT) – Season 1: 10 episodes

Noah Wyle (ER) stars in this gripping drama series from DreamWorks Television and executive producer Steven Spielberg about the aftermath of an alien invasion and the resistance movement formed by the survivors.

Returning Series:

Men of a Certain Age – Premiere: Wednesday, June 1, at 10 p.m. (ET/PT) – Season 2 continues: Six summer episodes

Ray Romano (Everybody Loves Raymond), Scott Bakula (Quantum Leap) and Andre Braugher (Homicide: Life on the Street) star in this acclaimed drama series about three men facing the challenges of midlife.

Memphis Beat – Premiere: Tuesday, June 14, at 9 p.m. (ET/PT) – Season 2: 10 episodes

Jason Lee (My Name Is Earl) stars as a Memphis police detective with an intimate connection to the city, a passion for its music and a very demanding boss. Alfre Woodard (True Blood) and DJ Qualls (Hustle & Flow) also star.

HawthoRNe – Premiere: Tuesday, June 14, at 10 p.m. (ET/PT) – Season 3: 10 episodes

This powerful drama series stars Jada Pinkett Smith (The Matrix trilogy) as Christina Hawthorne, the impassioned Chief Nursing Officer at James River Hospital, with Michael Vartan (Alias) and new cast member Marc Anthony (El Cantate) also starring.

Leverage – Premiere: Sunday, June 26, at 9 p.m. (ET/PT) – Season 4: 10 summer episodes

Timothy Hutton (Ordinary People) stars as the head of television’s coolest gang of thieves, grifters and con artists out to help everyday people get even against the big shots who have destroyed their lives.

The Closer – Premiere: Monday, July 11, at 9 p.m. (ET/PT) – Season 7: 10 summer episodes

TNT’s record-breaking series returns this summer with 2010 Emmy winner Kyra Sedgwick as Los Angeles Deputy Police Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson.

Rizzoli & Isles – Premiere: Monday, July 11, at 10 p.m. (ET/PT) – Season 2: 10 summer episodes

Last summer, Angie Harmon and Sasha Alexander proved two heads are better than one in this drama series based on the crime novels by best-selling author Tess Gerritsen. As Boston detective Jane Rizzoli and medical examiner Maura Isles, the pair share a quirky chemistry and put away some of Boston’s most notorious criminals.

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