Q and A: Week of Aug. 26

Q: I think I’ve finally dealt with the death of Matthew Crawley on “Downton Abbey” and am now eager for more upstairs/downstairs drama. Can you tell me when new episodes will begin airing? — Frannie P., via e-mail

A: Series four of “Downton Abbey,” which pick up in winter 1922, is scheduled to premiere Jan. 4, 2014, on PBS. Michelle Dockery, who plays the newly widowed Mary, assured fans at the Television Critics Association panel this year that as far as she knows, no other major characters are set to exit this season (referring to last season’s deaths of Matthew and Lady Sybil).

Michelle told the TCA panel: “As much as I think it was sad to see Dan (Stevens, who played Matthew) go, it opens up an opportunity for Julian (Fellowes, “Downton Abbey’s creator and head writer) to take the character in all new directions. The fourth (season) is about recovery. She’s starting a new life. There are various suitors who are being thrown in her direction. But she’s very reluctant to go through with any of it because she can’t stop thinking about Matthew.”

Q: I thought Jay Leno was going to retire and hand “The Tonight Show” reins over to Jimmy Fallon. Is that ever going to happen? — Brendan W., Spokane, Wash.

A: NBC officially announced that Jay Leno’s last day will be Feb. 6, 2014, with his staff of 170 getting paid through September as part of the agreement. Jimmy Fallon will take over hosting duties on Feb. 24, after the closing ceremonies of the Winter Olympics. “The Tonight Show” will relocate to New York City from Los Angeles for Jimmy’s tenure as host. Seth Meyers — writer, comedian and “Weekend Update” anchor on “Saturday Night Live” — will take over Jimmy’s position at “The Late Show.”

Q: Is it true that Lea Michele and Kate Hudson of “Glee” do not get along off-screen? — Bridget L., via e-mail

A: Chalk that rumor up to good acting — just because their characters didn’t get along doesn’t mean the actresses behind the characters don’t. In fact, Kate offered up her Los Angeles home to Lea so she could hide out for a few weeks after the death of her beau, Cory Monteith.

In other “Glee” news, NeNe Leakes is set to return for multiple episodes this season as Coach Roz. This makes me happy, because even though I love Coach Sylvester, there is always room for the hilarious Roz.

Q: I loved Showtime’s series “The Borgias” and was so bummed when it was canceled without a resolution. Any chance it’ll come back as a movie or something to wrap things up? — Jerry T., Montgomery, Ala.

A: The Jeremy Irons-starring period drama, which ended its third season this past June, has gotten a wrap-up — in e-book form. Mid-August saw the release of “The Borgia Apocalypse,” a book based on the intended two-hour series finale that never came to fruition.

Read more

Q and A: Week of Sept. 26

Michael C. Hall

Q: It seems like I’ve been waiting forever for ‘Dexter’ to return for its sixth season. Can you tell me when it will be back? — Stacie E., via e-mail

A: Wait no longer, Stacie. ‘Dexter’ returns to Showtime on Sunday, Oct. 2 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. This 12-episode season will see some major changes for our favorite serial killer/blood-spatter analyst (played by Michael C. Hall). According to Showtime’s president David Nevins: ‘There’s going to be some things that happen over this season of ‘Dexter’ that can change some of the DNA in the show.

“As a programmer, I believe in change,” he said. “I’m not scared of change. I know where they’re going this season and have some sense of where they could go in subsequent seasons.’ As of now there is no official word on a season seven, however, all parties are in serious negotiations to make that happen.

Q: I love the addition of Marc Anthony to TNT’s ‘HawthoRNe.’ What’s in store for his character and Jada Pinkett Smith’s for next season? — Sylvia R., Oakland, Calif.

A: There’s nothing in store for these characters next season, I’m afraid, as TNT decided not to renew the medical drama for a fourth season. A network rep said: ‘TNT has decided not to order a fourth season of ‘HawthoRNe.’ TNT truly appreciates the tremendous dedication of everyone involved in ‘HawthoRNe.’ The series gave TNT the opportunity to work with many outstanding people, including Jada Pinkett Smith and the rest of the show’s talented cast, crew, producers and writers. We wish everyone involved with ‘HawthoRNe’ nothing but the best.”

Andy Whitfield

Q: I am a huge fan of Starz’s ‘Spartacus; and was wondering how the original Spartacus, Andy Whitfield, is doing? I read in your column that he’s been battling cancer. — Paul Y., via e-mail

A: It makes me very sad to report that the handsome young actor recently lost his battle with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He passed away on Sept. 11 at the age of 39 with his wife, Vashti, at his side. She released this statement: ‘He passed peacefully surrounded by love. Thank you to all his fans whose love and support have helped carry him to this point. He will be remembered as the inspiring, courageous and gentle man, father and husband he was.’

Q: First of all, I still can’t believe that the original ‘Law and Order’ was canceled. And second, can you tell me what series star Sam Waterston has coming up? — Judith F., Altoona, Pa.

A: You’ll have to wait only a little while longer to see Mr. Waterston on television again, but you’ll need to order HBO if you don’t already have it. He is set to star in the new series by writer Aaron Sorkin (who wrote ‘The West Wing’ and ‘The Social Network’) about cable news. The as-yet-untitled drama will center on a cable-news anchor played by Jeff Daniels and a newsroom boss played by Sam Waterston.

Read more

Q and A: Week of Sept. 19

Q: One of my all-time favorite comedies is "Will and Grace," and I especially love Eric McCormack on that show. Can you tell me what he’s got coming up? I’d love to see him in something, whether on the big screen or small. — David D., via e-mail

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.

Read more

Q and A: Week of April 11

Q: I’ve had a crush on Justin Bruening since he was on “All My Children” in the mid-2000s. What is he up to lately? — Michelle T., via e-mail

A: The former “AMC” and “Knight Rider” star was recently cast in the new “Wonder Woman” reboot, where he’ll serve as a love interest for the superhero herself, played by Adrianne Palicki. Justin, 31, joins one of my crushes, Cary Elwes — who I called dibs on back when he starred as Wesley in “The Princess Bride” — on the new series, which is scheduled to join NBC’s lineup this fall.

Q: I was wondering about actor Jameson Parker, who starred with Gerald McRaney on “Simon and Simon.” What has he been doing lately? I saw a recent picture of him, and he is still blond and gorgeous at 63. — Catherine H., Clinton Township, Mich.



A: Jameson, who played AJ Simon in the hit ’80s series, has been lying pretty low, acting-wise, for a few years. After “Simon and Simon,” Jameson starred in TV movies and guest-starred on many series, including McRaney’s hit sitcom “Major Dad.” He also has written a few books, including an autobiography called “An Accidental Cowboy” and another book titled “To Absent Friends,” which he describes as “a book about dogs we miss.” Back in 1992, Jameson was shot twice during a dispute with his neighbor over dog waste. He was released from the hospital the next day and made a full recovery. The neighbor was charged with attempted murder and sentenced to nine years in prison.

Q: I’ve always liked actress Tea Leoni. Can I see her in anything new soon? – Todd B., via e-mail

A: Tea is joining hubby David Duchovny’s rival network, HBO, for a new comedy called “Spring/Summer.” As I’m sure you know, David stars in the hit Showtime series “Californication,” which recently finished airing its fourth season. But back to Tea … her new show, which is scheduled to begin shooting in June, marks her return to network television. Her most recent TV appearance was as a guest star on David’s show, “The X-Files,” back in 2000.

READERS: Celebrity Extra’s summer of contests continues with your chance to win books: Three sets of “Dragonstone” and its soon-to-be-released sequel, “The Dragon’s Heart,” are up for grabs (Check back later this week for reviews to both books). Written by Michelle Young, these fantasy/historical/romance novels center on the enchanting world of Latharia, where magic rules, dragons fill the skies and everyone has a secret. If you think this kind of book is not your style (as I did before I read them), think again. Three lucky readers have a chance to win an autographed copy of BOTH books. Write to me at letters@cindyelavsky.com, or at King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475, and tell me why you’d like to be transported the magical world of Latharia this summer. Deadline is May 31.

Read more

Q and A: Week of Feb. 21

Q: I watched Season 1 of the HBO series “Boardwalk Empire” starring Steve Buscemi. It is the best new series since “The Sopranos.” Is there a second season in the works? — Lisa C., Port Charlotte, Fla.

A: “Boardwalk Empire” was renewed for a second season by HBO just two days after the show’s record-setting premiere in September. Even if that hadn’t happened, the numerous accolades the freshman series has been given — including Golden Globes for Best Dramatic Series and Best Dramatic Actor for Steve Buscemi (pictured) — would have guaranteed its renewal. Look for it this fall.

Q: When will the new season of “Nurse Jackie” start airing? I really miss getting my Edie Falco fix. — Grace R., via e-mail



A: It’s not long now, Grace. Edie and gang will be back when “Nurse Jackie” has its Season 3 premiere March 28 on Showtime. In other Showtime news, “Californication” has been renewed for a fifth season, “The Real L Word” will return in the summer, and Jeremy Irons (!) comes to Showtime in the new series “The Borgias,” beginning Sunday, April 3, at 9 p.m. Jeremy stars in this epic period drama as Rodrigo Borgia, the manipulative patriarch of the Borgia family who ascends to the highest circles of power in Renaissance-era Italy. By the looks of it, Showtime is really giving HBO a run for its money in the original-series department, wouldn’t you say?

Q: I keep hearing rumors that “Dallas” is going to be remade for television. Is that true, and if so, what can you tell me about it? — Kyra L., Tacoma, Wash.

A: This time, the rumor mill is correct. TNT has optioned a pilot for “Dallas,” which will center on the new generation — J.R. Ewing’s son, John Ross, and the adopted son of Bobby and Pam Ewing, Christopher — as they clash over the future of the family dynasty. Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy and Linda Gray are all signed on to reprise their previous roles — J.R., Bobby and Sue Ellen, respectively. Jordana Brewster (“Fast and Furious”) and Josh Henderson (“Desperate Housewives”) also are set to star. As of this writing, it is not known exactly when the series will premiere, but I have my fingers crossed for fall 2011.

Q: I think “The Whole Truth” is a great program, but it has not been on the air for a few months. The banter between Rob Morrow and Maura Tierney is fast-paced with a hint of something electrical going on between them. Please tell me this show will be on the air again soon. — Louise G., via e-mail

A: I am sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but “The Whole Truth” was pulled from ABC’s schedule in December, with no plans to air the remaining seven episodes. Perhaps ABC will release Season 1 on DVD, with 13 episodes of the show included, but you never know these days.

Read more

Rob Lowe Gets Around!

Rob Lowe, who recently joined the cast of the fabulous Parks and Recreation, will guest star in the fourth season of Showtime's Californication.

Rob will play Eddie Nero, an imbalanced yet charismatic, award-winning movie star who finds himself in contention to play Hank Moody (played by David Duchovny) in the film version of Moody's hit novel.
Rob will appear in at least one episode, but could possibly become a recurring character.

Yay! I am always in favor of more Rob Lowe!

Read more

Edie Falco Is Back for a New Season of Nurse Jackie

(from the Associated Press)

Nurse Jackie Peyton was passed out from a hit of morphine when we last saw her, an attempt at a momentary escape from life's troubles.

Now it's time to wake up and face real life again.

The second season of Showtime's Nurse Jackie premieres tonight at 10 p.m. ET.

Edie Falco's title character has, shall we say, a few flaws: She is addicted to drugs, cheats on her husband with her supplier and is willing to bend hospital rules if they suit her way of doing her job.

Despite these blemishes, Jackie is a sympathetic and popular character, even with real nurses concerned about the portrayal of their professional before the series even started. As it turned out, "Nurse Jackie" was the most-watched new series in Showtime's history when it debuted in June 2009.

(photo courtesy Showtime)

Read more