Today, the alphabet network announced their schedule for the upcoming 2012-13 season. There are quite a number of new TV shows filling the timeslots, in additional to ABC’s pre-existing ones.
Returning shows include America’s Funniest Home Videos, The Bachelor, Body of Proof, Castle, Dancing with the Stars, Don’t Trust the B in Apartment 23, Grey’s Anatomy, Happy Endings, Last Man Standing, The Middle, Modern Family, Once Upon a Time, Primetime: What Would You Do?, Private Practice, Revenge, Scandal, Shark Tank, Suburgatory, 20/20, and Wife Swap.
New series include 666 Park Avenue, The Family Tools, How to Live with Your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life), Last Resort, Malibu Country, Mistresses, Nashville, The Neighbors, Red Widow, and Zero Hour. (A couple of these look they’re begging for a name change.)
If you don’t see your favorites here, check out our list of cancelled and renewed ABC shows.
Here’s the official press release which includes description of the new programs:
ABC UNVEILS 2012-13 PRIMETIME SCHEDULE
New Series “666 Park Avenue,” “The Family Tools,” “How to Live with Your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life),” “Last Resort,” “Malibu Country,” “Mistresses,” “Nashville,” “The Neighbors,” “Red Widow” and “Zero Hour” Join the Lineup
“America’s Funniest Home Videos,” “The Bachelor,” “Body of Proof,” “Castle,” “Dancing with the Stars,” “Don’t Trust the B— in Apartment 23,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Happy Endings,” “Last Man Standing,” “The Middle,” “Modern Family,” “Once Upon a Time,” “Primetime: What Would You Do?,” “Private Practice,” “Revenge,” “Scandal,” “Shark Tank,” “Suburgatory,” “20/20″ and “Wife Swap” Will Return
ABC continues to set the industry standard for creative ingenuity, strong viewer retention and ratings success in primetime, delivering the No. 1 comedy (“Modern Family”), No. 1 drama (“Grey’s Anatomy”) and No. 1 freshman drama (“Once Upon a Time”) this season in the key Adult 18-49 demographic. Building on its momentum from the 2011-2012 season, Paul Lee, president, ABC Entertainment Group, will share ABC’s plans for next season and present the network’s 2012-2013 Fall schedule before the advertising and media communities this afternoon at Lincoln Center’s Avery Fisher Hall.
New series for the 2012-13 season are “666 Park Avenue,” “The Family Tools,” “How to Live with your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life),” “Last Resort,” “Malibu Country,” “Mistresses,” “Nashville,” “The Neighbors,” “Red Widow” and “Zero Hour.”
“America’s Funniest Home Videos,” “The Bachelor,” “Body of Proof,” “Castle,” “Dancing with the Stars,” “Don’t Trust the B— in Apartment 23,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Happy Endings,” “Last Man Standing,” “The Middle,” “Modern Family,” “Once Upon a Time,” “Primetime: What Would You Do?,” “Private Practice,” “Revenge,” “Scandal,” “Shark Tank,” “Suburgatory,” “20/20″ and “Wife Swap” Will Return
“We are using the success we achieved last season as a strong foundation to launch some more great shows this time around,” said Lee. “Last year was about stability and ambition, this year is about growth and continuing momentum, with strong programming that will stake ABC’s claim on more nights as the home of quality entertainment.”
A solid mix of promising new series and returning hits is what drove ABC to strong results in the 2011-12 Season. Season to date among Adults 18-49, ABC claims TV’s No. 1 comedy/scripted series (“Modern Family”), the No. 1 drama (“Grey’s Anatomy”) and the No. 1 freshman drama (“Once Upon a Time”). Led by Emmy-winning “Modern Family,” ABC’s 2-hour Wednesday night comedy block continues to connect with audiences, posting its 2nd straight year of growth with viewers (+3%) and young adults (+6%). In addition, ABC is the only network up during the 10 o’clock hour on Monday-Friday as lead-in to affiliates’ late-local newscasts with Total Viewers (+8%) and Adults 25-54 (+7%).
Fall premiere dates will be announced at a later time. Please note shows picked up but not listed on the schedule will debut later in the 2012-13 season.
ABC’s fall primetime schedule is as follows (all times listed are Eastern); new shows are in bold:
DAY TIME SERIES
MONDAY:
8:00 p.m. “Dancing with the Stars”
10:00 p.m. “Castle”
In January:
8:00 p.m. “The Bachelor”
10:00 p.m. “Castle”
TUESDAY:
8:00 p.m. “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show”
9:00 p.m. “Happy Endings”
9:30 p.m. “Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23″
10:00 p.m. “Private Practice”
In January:
8:00 p.m. “How to Live with Your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life)”
8:30 p.m. “The Family Tools”
WEDNESDAY:
8:00 p.m. “The Middle”
8:30 p.m. “Suburgatory”
9:00 p.m. “Modern Family”
9:30 p.m. “The Neighbors”
10:00 p.m. “Nashville”
THURSDAY:
8:00 p.m. “Last Resort”
9:00 p.m. “Grey’s Anatomy”
10:00 p.m. “Scandal”
FRIDAY:
8:00 p.m. “Shark Tank”
9:00 p.m. “Primetime: What Would You Do?”
10:00 p.m. “20/20″
In November:
8:00 p.m. “Last Man Standing”
8:30 p.m. “Malibu Country”
9:00 p.m. “Shark Tank”
10:00 p.m. “20/20″
SATURDAY:
8:00 p.m. “Saturday Night College Football”
SUNDAY:
7:00 p.m. “America’s Funniest Home Videos”
8:00 p.m. “Once Upon a Time”
9:00 p.m. “Revenge”
10:00 p.m. “666 Park Avenue”
NEW FALL AND MIDSEASON SERIES:
DRAMA
“666 PARK AVENUE”
At the ominous address of 666 Park Avenue, anything you desire can be yours. Everyone has needs, desires and ambition. For the residents of The Drake, these will all be met, courtesy of the building’s mysterious owner, Gavin Doran (Terry O’Quinn). But every Faustian contract comes with a price. When Jane Van Veen (Rachael Taylor) and Henry Martin (Dave Annable), an idealistic young couple from the Midwest, are offered the opportunity to manage the historic building, they not only fall prey to the machinations of Doran and his mysterious wife, Olivia (Vanessa Williams), but unwittingly begin to experience the shadowy, supernatural forces within the building that imprison and endanger the lives of the residents inside. Sexy, seductive and inviting, The Drake maintains a dark hold over all of its residents, tempting them through their ambitions and desires, in this chilling new drama that’s home to an epic struggle of good versus evil.
“666 Park Avenue” stars Rachael Taylor (“Charlie’s Angels,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” Transformers) as Jane Van Veen, Dave Annable (“Brothers & Sisters,” “Reunion”) as Henry Martin, Robert Buckley (“One Tree Hill,” “Lipstick Jungle”) as Brian Leonard, Mercedes Masöhn (“The Finder,” “Chuck,” “Three Rivers”) as Louise Leonard, Helena Mattsson (“Iron Man 2,” “Nikita,” “Desperate Housewives”) as Alexis Blume, Samantha Logan as Nona Clark, with Vanessa Williams (“Desperate Housewives,” “Ugly Betty,” “Shaft,” “Soul Food”) as Olivia Doran and Terry O’Quinn (“Lost,” “Millennium,” “Hawaii Five-0,” “Alias,” “The West Wing,” “Jag”) as Gavin Doran.
Based on the book series by Gabriella Pierce, “666 Park Avenue” was written by David Wilcox (“Fringe,” “Life on Mars”), who is also an executive producer along with Matthew Miller (“Chuck,” “Human Target”), Leslie Morgenstein (“Gossip Girl,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “Pretty Little Liars,” “The Lying Game,” “The Secret Circle,” “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants”), Gina Girolamo (“The Secret Circle,” “The Lying Game”) and Alex Graves (“Fringe,” “The West Wing”). The pilot for “666 Park Avenue” was directed by Alex Graves. “666 Park Avenue” is from Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Alloy Entertainment (“Gossip Girl,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “Pretty Little Liars”) and Warner Bros. Television.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/666parkave Twitter: Twitter.com/666ParkAve_ABC Hashtag: #666ParkAve
“LAST RESORT”
500 feet beneath the ocean’s surface, the U.S. ballistic missile submarine Colorado receive their orders. Over a radio channel, designed only to be used if their homeland has been wiped out, they’re told to fire nuclear weapons at Pakistan.
Captain Marcus Chaplin (Andre Braugher) demands confirmation of the orders only to be unceremoniously relieved of duty by the White House. XO Sam Kendal (Scott Speedman) finds himself suddenly in charge of the submarine and facing the same difficult decision. When he also refuses to fire without confirmation of the orders, the Colorado is targeted, fired upon, and hit. The submarine and its crew find themselves crippled on the ocean floor, declared rogue enemies of their own country. Now, with nowhere left to turn, Chaplin and Kendal take the sub on the run and bring the men and women of the Colorado to an exotic island. Here they will find refuge, romance and a chance at a new life, even as they try to clear their names and get home.
“Last Resort” stars Andre Braugher (“Men of a Certain Age”) as Captain Marcus Chaplin, Scott Speedman (“The Vow”) as XO Sam Kendal, Daisy Betts (“Sea Patrol”) as Lieutenant Grace Shepard, Dichen Lachman (“Being Human”) as Tani Tumrenjack, Daniel Lissing (“Crownies”) as SEAL Officer James King, Sahr Ngaujah (“House of Payne”) as Mayor Julian Serrat, Camille de Pazzis as Sophie Gerard, Autumn Reeser (“Hawaii Five-O,” “No Ordinary Family”) as Kylie Sinclair, Jessy Schram (“Falling Skies,” “Once Upon a Time”) as Christine Kendal.
Recurring guest star is Robert Patrick (“The Gangster Squad”) as Master Chief Joseph Prosser.
“Last Resort” was written by Shawn Ryan (“The Shield,” “The Unit,” “The Chicago Code”) and Karl Gajdusek, who are also executive producers along with Martin Campbell and Marney Hochman Nash. The pilot for “Last Resort” was directed by Martin Campbell. “Last Resort” is produced by Middkid Productions in association with Sony Pictures Television.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LastResortABC Twitter: Twitter.com/LastResort_ABC Hashtag: #LastResort
“MISTRESSES”
Welcome to a provocative and thrilling drama about the scandalous lives of a sexy and sassy group of four girlfriends, each on her own path to self-discovery, as they brave the turbulent journey together.
Meet Savi (Alyssa Milano), a successful career woman working toward the next phase in her life — both professional and personal — simultaneously bucking for partner at her law firm while she and her husband, Harry (Brett Tucker), try to start a family of their own. Savi’s free-spirited and capricious baby sister, Josselyn (Jes Macallan), couldn’t be more different – living single, serial dating and partying, and regularly leaning on her big sister along the way. Their common best friend, April (Rochelle Aytes), a recent widow and mother of two, is rebuilding her life after tragedy and learning to move forward, with the support and guidance of her closest girlfriends. And friend Karen (Yunjin Kim), a successful therapist with her own practice, reconnects with the girls after her involvement in a complicated relationship with a patient goes far too deep.
“Mistresses” is a salacious new drama about a group of friends caught in storms of excitement and self-discovery, secrecy and betrayal, and bound by the complex relationships they’ve created.
“Mistresses” stars Alyssa Milano (“New Years Eve,” “Romantically Challenged,” “Hall Pass,” “My Name Is Earl,” “Charmed,” “Melrose Place”) as Savannah, Yunjin Kim (“Lost”) as Karen, Rochelle Aytes (“Work It,” “White Collar,” “Detroit 1-8-7,” “Desperate Housewives”) as April, Jes Macallan (“Kiss Me,” “NCIS: Los Angeles,” “Crash and Burn,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Shameless”) as Josslyn, Jason George (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “The Closer,” “Against the Wall,” “Castle,” “Off the Map,” “Eastwick”) as Dominic, Brett Tucker (“Castle,” “Spartacus: Vengeance,” “Rizzoli & Isles,” “NCIS,” “Neighbours”) as Harry, Erik Stocklin (“Grey Sheep,” “Sick Day,” “Let’s Big Happy”) as Sam.
Guest Starring Marin Hinkle (“Two and a Half Men,” “Brothers & Sisters”) as Elisabeth, John Schneider (“Smallville,” “90210,” “Desperate Housewives”) as Thomas Grey, Shannyn Sossamon (“How to Make It in America,” “Dirt”) as Alex, Cameron Bender (“Commander in Chief,” “Whitney,” “Beverlywood”) as Richard, Kate Beahan (“Burning Man,” “Rake,” “Boston Legal”) as Miranda, Sunkrish Bala (“Notes from the Underbelly,” “I Just Want My Pants Back”) as Hamid.
Based on the U.K. television series, “Mistresses” is from K.J. Steinberg (“Gossip Girl”) and is executive-produced by Robert Sertner (“Revenge,” “No Ordinary Family”), K.J. Steinberg (“Gossip Girl”), Rina Mimoun (“Privileged,” “Gilmore Girls”) and Douglas Rae (“Wuthering Heights,” “Camelot,” “Mistresses,” “Raw,” “Meadowlands”). The pilot for “Mistresses” is directed by Cherie Nowlan. The series is from ABC Studios.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Mistresses Twitter: Twitter.com/Mistresses_ABC Hashtag: #Mistresses
“NASHVILLE”
Chart-topping Rayna James (Connie Britton) is a country legend who’s had a career any singer would envy, though lately her popularity is starting to wane. Fans still line up to get her autograph, but she’s not packing the arenas like she used to. Rayna’s record label thinks a concert tour, opening for up-and-comer Juliette Barnes (Hayden Panettiere), the young and sexy future of country music, is just what Rayna needs. But scheming Juliette can’t wait to steal Rayna’s spotlight. Sharing a stage with that disrespectful, untalented, little vixen is the last thing Rayna wants to do, which sets up a power struggle for popularity. Could the undiscovered songwriting talent of Scarlett O’Connor (Clare Bowen) be the key to helping Rayna resurrect her career?
Complicating matters, Rayna’s wealthy but estranged father, Lamar Hampton (Powers Boothe), is a powerful force in business, Tennessee politics, and the lives of his two grown daughters. His drive for power results in a scheme to back Rayna’s handsome husband, Teddy, in a run for Mayor of Nashville, against Rayna’s wishes.
“Nashville” stars Connie Britton (“Friday Night Lights,” “American Horror Story”) as Rayna, Hayden Panettiere (“Heroes”) as Juliette, Powers Boothe (“MacGruber,” “24″) as Lamar, Charles Esten (“Enlightened,” “Big Love”) as Deacon, Eric Close (“Chaos,” “Without a Trace”) as Teddy, Clare Bowen as Scarlett, Jonathan Jackson (“General Hospital”) as Avery, Sam Palladio as Gunnar and Robert Wisdom as Coleman.
“Nashville” was written by Callie Khouri (“Thelma & Louise”) who is an executive producer along with R.J. Cutler (“The September Issue,” “The War Room,” “Flip That House,” “A Perfect Candidate”) and Steve Buchanan. The pilot for “Nashville” was directed by R.J. Cutler. The series is produced by Lionsgate, ABC Studios and Gaylord Entertainment.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/NashvilleABC Twitter: Twitter.com/Nashville_ABC Hashtag: #Nashville
“RED WIDOW”
When Marta Walraven’s (Radha Mitchell) husband is brutally murdered, her first instinct is to protect her three young children. Her husband’s business partners – Irwin Petrova (Wil Traval), Marta’s scheming and untrustworthy brother, and Mike Tomlin (Lee Tergesen) — were involved in an illegal drug business deal with rival gangsters, and Marta’s husband paid the ultimate price. She already knows the violent world of organized crime; her father, Andrei Petrova (Rade Sherbedzija), and loyal bodyguard Luther (Luke Goss) are gangsters too. She and her sister Kat (Jaime Ray Newman) had always wished for a safer life without bloodshed and fear. For a while Marta lived happily as a stay at home housewife in San Marta’s cooperation, FBI Agent James Ramos (Mido Hamada) now promises justice.
Marta discovers a tenacity she never knew she had, and takes on the gangsters and the FBI to unveil the truth about her husband’s death. As she digs into this dark underworld, she’ll test her own strength, relying on her resourcefulness, determination and family ties like never before. To get out of this mob, she needs to beat the bad guys at their own deadly game.
“Red Widow” stars Radha Mitchell (“Melinda and Melinda,” “Silent Hill,” “Rogue,” “Henry Poll Is Here,” “The Children of Huang Shi,” “The Waiting City”) as Marta Walraven, Wil Traval (“Rescue Special Ops,” “Underbelly,” “All Saints”) as Irwin Petrova, Erin Moriarty (“One Life to Live”) as Natalie Walraven, Sterling Beaumon (“Arthur Newman, Golf Pro, “Clue”) as Gabriel Walraven, Lee Tergesen (“Army Wives”) as Mike Tomlin, Jakob Salvati as Boris Walraven, Mido Hamada as FBI Agent James Ramos, Luke Goss as Luther, Jaime Ray Newman (“Drop Dead Diva”) as Kat Petrova, Suleka Mathew (“Hawthorne”) as Dina Tomlin and Rade Serbedzija (“24″) as Andrei Petrova.
Based on the Dutch series “Penoza,” “Red Widow” teleplay is by Melissa Rosenberg (“Dexter” and screenwriter of the Twilight franchise). “Red Widow “is executive-produced by Melissa Rosenberg, Howard Klein (“The Office,” “Parks & Recreation”), Endemol Studios and Alon Aranya. The pilot for “Red Widow” was directed by Mark Pellington. The series is produced by ABC Studios.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/RedWidowABC Twitter: Twitter.com/RedWidowABC Hashtag: #RedWidow
“ZERO HOUR”
As the publisher of a paranormal enthusiast magazine, Modern Skeptic, Hank Galliston has spent his career following clues, debunking myths and solving conspiracies. A confessed paranormal junkie, his motto is “logic is the compass.” But when his beautiful wife, Laila (Jacinda Barrett), is abducted from her antique clock shop, Hank gets pulled into one of the most compelling mysteries in human history, stretching around the world and back centuries.
Contained in one of his wife’s clocks is a treasure map, and what it leads to could be cataclysmic. Now it’s up to Hank to decipher the symbols and unlock the secrets of the map, while ensuring the answers don’t fall into the wrong hands – a man they call White Vincent (Michael Nyqvist). With his two young associates, Rachel (Addison Timlin) and Arron (Scott Michael Foster), in tow, along with Becca Riley, a sexy FBI agent (Carmen Ejogo), Hank will lead them on a breathless race against the clock to find his wife and save humanity.
“Zero Hour” stars Anthony Edwards (“Big Sur,” “Flipped,” “ER”) as Hank, Carmen Ejogo (“Sparkle,” “Chaos,” “Away We Go”) as Beck, Scott Michael Foster (“Californication,” “The River”) as Aaron, Addison Timlin (“Californication”) as Rachel, Jacinda Barrett (“Matching Jack,” “Middle Men,” “New York, I Love You”) as Laila and Michael Nyqvist (“Mission: Impossible – Ghost Patrol”) as White Vincent.
“Zero Hour” was written by Paul T. Scheuring (“Prison Break”) who is also an executive producer along with Pierre Morel, Lorenzo DiBonaventura (“The Transformers,” “GI: Joe” franchise, “Salt,” “Red”) and Dan McDermott (“Human Target”). The pilot for “Zero Hour” was directed by Pierre Morel. The series is produced by ABC Studios.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ZeroHourABC Twitter: Twitter.com/ZeroHour_ABC Hashtag: #ZeroHour
COMEDY
“HOW TO LIVE WITH YOUR PARENTS (FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE)”
Polly (Sarah Chalke) is a single mom who’s been divorced for almost a year. The transition wasn’t easy for her, especially in this economy. So, like a lot of young people living in this new reality, she and her daughter, Natalie (Rachel Eggleston), have moved back home with her eccentric parents, Elaine (Elizabeth Perkins) and Max (Brad Garrett). But Polly and her parents look at life through two different lenses. Polly’s too uptight. Her parents are too laid back. Polly’s conservative when it comes to dating (no action, whatsoever), while her parents are still sexually adventurous. They think Polly turned out okay, so what’s the big deal? Well, they say it takes a village to raise a child… and in Polly’s case, this village is on fire. But with help from her best friend Gregg (Orlando Jones), her lovable yet irresponsible ex-husband Julian (Jon Dore) and her cool and fun assistant Jenn (Rebecca Delgado Smith) Polly takes her first steps toward getting a life, starting with a social one.
“How to Live with Your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life)” stars Sarah Chalke (“Mad Love,” “Scrubs”) as Polly, Jon Dore as Julian, Rachel Eggleston as Natalie, Brad Garrett (“Everybody Loves Raymond,” “‘Til Death”) as Max, Orlando Jones (“Rules of Engagement”) as Gregg, Elizabeth Perkins (“Weeds”) as Elaine, Rebecca Delgado Smith as Jenn.
“How to Live with Your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life)” was written by Claudia Lonow, who is also an executive producer along with Brian Grazer and Francie Calfo. The pilot for “How to Live with Your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life)” was directed by Julie Anne Robinson. The series is produced by 20th Century Fox and Imagine Television.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HowToLiveWithYourParents Twitter: Twitter.com/HowToLiveABC Hashtag: #HowToLive
“MALIBU COUNTRY”
When Reba Gallagher (Reba) discovers that her husband, Bobby, (Jeffrey Nordling) a country music legend, has a cheatin’ heart, her world is turned upside down. Reba dreamt of becoming a country star herself, but put her career on hold to raise a family. Now she’s questioning all of that, big-time. With the ink on her divorce barely dry, Reba packs up her sharp-tongued mother, Lillie May (Lily Tomlin), her two kids and the U-Haul and heads for sunny California to begin a new chapter. Leaving Nashville in the rear view, they start over at their Malibu residence — the last remaining asset they have. Reba gets to know her new open and loving neighbor Kim (Sara Rue) and her son, Sage, but also discovers that relocation to Southern California is going to be quite an adjustment for a traditional southern belle: the West Coast seems like the polar opposite of Music City, and Reba feels like an outsider. Still, with the support of her family she sets about finding her voice, jump-starting her music career with the help of her new music agent, Geoffrey (Jai Rodriguez), and embracing this chance to begin again.
“Malibu Country” stars country music superstar Reba (“Reba,” “Tremors”) as Reba, Sara Rue (“Rules of Engagement,” “Less Than Perfect”) as Kim, Justin Prentice as Cash, Juliette Angelo as June, Jai Rodriguez (“Bones,” “How I Met Your Mother,” one of the original hosts of “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy”) as Geoffrey and Lily Tomlin (“Eastbound and Down,” “Damages,” “Desperate Housewives,” “West Wing,” “Nine to Five,” “All of Me,” “Nashville”) as Lillie May.
“Malibu Country” is from Kevin Abbott (“Last Man Standing,” “My Name Is Earl,” “Reba”) who executive produces along with Michael Hanel & Mindy Schultheis, Reba McEntire & Narvel Blackstock, Dave Stewart & Pam Williams, John Pasquin. The pilot for “Malibu Country” was directed by John Pasquin. The series is from ABC Studios.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/MalibuCountryABC Twitter: Twitter.com/Malibu_Country Hashtag: #MalibuCountry
“THE NEIGHBORS”
How well do you know your neighbors?
Meet the Weavers, Debbie (Jami Gertz) and Marty (Lenny Venito). Marty, in hopes of providing a better life for his wife and three kids, recently bought a home in Hidden Hills, a gated New Jersey townhome community with its own golf course. Hidden Hills is so exclusive that a house hasn’t come on the market in 10 years. But one finally did and the Weavers got it!
It’s clear from day one that the residents of Hidden Hills are a little different. For starters, their new neighbors all have pro-athlete names like Reggie Jackson (Tim Jo), Jackie Joyner-Kersee (Toks Olagundoye), Dick Butkis (Ian Patrick) and Larry Bird (Simon Templeman). Over dinner, Marty and his family discover that their neighbors receive nourishment through their eyes by reading books, rather than eating. The Weavers soon learn that the entire community is comprised of aliens from Zabvron, where the men bear children and everyone cries green goo from their ears.
The Zabvronians have been stationed on Earth for the past 10 years, disguised as humans, awaiting instructions from home, and the Weavers are the first humans they’ve had the opportunity to know. As it turns out, the pressures of marriage and parenthood are not exclusive to planet Earth. Two worlds will collide with hilarious consequences as everyone discovers they can “totally relate” and learn a lot from each other.
“The Neighbors” stars Jami Gertz (“Entourage,” “Modern Family,” “Still Standing,” “Ally McBeal”) as Debbie Weaver, Lenny Venito (“Bored to Death,” “Men in Black III,” “Person of Interest,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm”) as Marty Weaver, Simon Templeman as Larry Bird, Toks Olagundoye as Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Clara Mamet as Amber Weaver, Tim Jo (“Glory Daze”) as Reggie Jackson, Ian Patrick (“Wanderlust”) as Dick Butkis, Max Charles (“The Three Stooges,” “The Amazing Spider-Man”) as Max Weaver, Isabella Cramp as Abby Weaver.
Guest starring are Mitch Rouse as Real Estate Agent and Doug Jones as Alien. Co-Starring are Bruce Green as Angry Man and Mary K. DeVault as Angry Woman.
“The Neighbors” was written by Dan Fogelman (“Cars,” “Tangled,” and “Crazy, Stupid, Love”) who is also an executive producer with Aaron Kaplan, Jeff Morton (“Modern Family”) and Chris Koch (“Workaholics,” “Modern Family”). “The Neighbors” was directed by Chris Koch and is from ABC Studios.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/theneighborsABC Twitter: Twitter.com/TheNeighborsABC Hashtag: #TheNeighbors
“THE FAMILY TOOLS”
Mixing family with business is never easy, and Jack Shea (Kyle Bornheimer) is about to learn that lesson the hard way. When Jack’s father, Tony (J.K. Simmons), has a heart attack and is forced to hand over the keys to his beloved handyman business, Jack is eager to finally step up and make his father proud. Unfortunately Jack’s past career efforts have been less than stellar, so everyone seems to be waiting for him to fail. His new job isn’t made any easier by Tony’s rebellious, troublemaker assistant, Darren (Edi Gathegi), and Darren’s flirtatious sister, Liz (Danielle Nicolet), who works at the local hardware store. Yet with the support of his Aunt Terry (Leah Remini) and his oddball yet endearing cousin Mason (Johnny Pemberton), Jack Shea may just find his true calling right at home.
“The Family Tools” stars Kyle Bornheimer (“Bachelorette,” “Romantically Challenged,” “Perfect Couples”) as Jack Shea, J.K. Simmons (“Ultimate Spiderman,” “Generator Rex,” “The Closer”) as Tony Shea, Edi Gathegi (“X Men: First Class”) as Darren, Johnny Pemberton (“21 Jump Street,” “Aim High”) as Mason, Danielle Nicolet (“X Men TV Series”) as Liz and Leah Remini (“In the Motherhood,” “King of Queens”) as Terry.
Based on the UK series “White Van Man,” “The Family Tools” teleplay is by Bobby Bowman. “The Family Tools” is executive-produced by Bobby Bowman, Mark Gordon (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Criminal Minds”) and Andrea Shay (“It Takes a Village,” “Virtual Virgin”) and Paul Buccieri (“Prime Suspect”). The pilot for “The Family Tools” was directed by Michael Fresco (“Suburgatory,” “Raising Hope,” “Better Off Ted,” “My Name Is Earl,” “Northern Exposure,” “St. Elsewhere”). The series is from ABC Studios.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheFamilyTools Twitter: Twitter.com/TheFamilyTools Hashtag: #FamilyTools
RETURNING SERIES
DRAMA
“BODY OF PROOF”
Brilliant and driven neurosurgeon Dr. Megan Hunt (Dana Delany) has found a new life as a Medical Examiner after a car accident left her with a condition called paresthesia and unable to operate. Although she’s no longer in the business of fixing what’s wrong with living patients, she’s still instinctively drawn to finding out what killed her dead patients and uncovering who was responsible and why. As she pursues the answers, the bodies of the dead provide the clues. The body is, in effect, the proof. As she, alongside her incredible team, investigate what happened to her patients, she finds their lives and the lessons they hold are in a way a bequest to her, to learn from them what she can and to apply to her own personal journey of redemption and forgiveness. In return, Megan is determined to get them justice.
“Body of Proof” stars Dana Delany as Dr. Megan Hunt, Jeri Ryan as Dr. Kate Murphey, John Carroll Lynch as Detective Bud Morris, Nicholas Bishop as Peter Dunlop, Sonja Sohn as Detective Samantha Baker, Geoffrey Arend as Dr. Ethan Gross, Windell D. Middlebrooks as Dr. Curtis Brumfield and Mary Mouser as Lacey Fleming.
The series is created by Christopher Murphey and executive-produced by Murphey, Matthew Gross, and Sunil Nayar. “Body of Proof” is produced by Gross Entertainment and ABC Studios.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BodyOfProof Twitter: Twitter.com/BodyOfProofABC Hashtag: #BodyOfProof
“CASTLE”
When viewers first met Richard Castle — a famous mystery novelist and divorced father raising his teenage daughter, while being kept grounded by his Broadway diva mother — he was creatively blocked. But when the NYPD questioned him in connection with a series of murders staged to imitate crime scenes from his books, Castle found inspiration in NYPD Detective Kate Beckett, a bright and aggressive homicide detective with a fascination for odd and offbeat cases stemming from the years-old unsolved murder of her own mother. Though they instantly clashed, sparks of another sort began to fly, leading both to danger and a hint of romance as Castle stepped in to help find the copycat killer. Once that initial case was solved, Castle and Beckett continued to investigate strange homicides in New York, combining Castle’s writer intuition and Beckett’s creative detective work.
“Castle” stars Nathan Fillion as Richard Castle, Stana Katic as Detective Kate Beckett, Tamala Jones as Medical Examiner Lanie Parish, Jon Huertas as NYPD Detective Javier Esposito, Seamus Dever as NYPD Detective Kevin Ryan, Penny Johnson Jerald as NYPD Captain Victoria Gates, Molly Quinn as Alexis Castle, with Susan Sullivan as Martha Rodgers. “Castle” is produced by ABC Studios. Andrew Marlowe is the show’s creator/executive producer, along with executive producers Rob Bowman, David Amann, Laurie Zaks and Armyan Bernstein.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Castle Twitter: Twitter.com/Castle_ABC Hashtag: #Castle
“GREY’S ANATOMY”
Considered one of the great dramas of our time and recipient of the 2007 Golden Globe Award for Best Drama Television Series and multiple Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Drama Series, “Grey’s Anatomy” is currently in its eighth season.
“Grey’s Anatomy” stars Ellen Pompeo as Meredith Grey, Patrick Dempsey as Derek Shepherd, Sandra Oh as Cristina Yang, Justin Chambers as Alex Karev, Chandra Wilson as Miranda Bailey, James Pickens, Jr. as Richard Webber, Sara Ramirez as Callie Torres, Eric Dane as Mark Sloan, Chyler Leigh as Lexie Grey, Kevin McKidd as Owen Hunt, Kim Raver as Teddy Altman, Jessica Capshaw as Arizona Robbins, Jesse Williams as Jackson Avery and Sarah Drew as April Kepner.
“Grey’s Anatomy” was created and is executive-produced by Shonda Rhimes (“Private Practice”, “Scandal”). Betsy Beers (“Private Practice”, “Scandal”), Mark Gordon (“Saving Private Ryan”), Rob Corn (“Chicago Hope”), Tony Phelan and Joan Rater (“Law& Order: Trial by Jury”) and Mark Wilding (“Scandal”) are executive producers. “Grey’s Anatomy” is an ABC Studios production.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GreysAnatomy Twitter: Twitter.com/GreysABC Hashtag: #GreysAnatomy
“ONCE UPON A TIME”
Master storytellers Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz (“Lost,” “Tron: Legacy”) invite everyone to brace themselves for a modern fairytale with thrilling twists and hints of darkness, brimming with wonder and filled with the magic of our most beloved stories.
And they lived happily ever after… or so everyone was led to believe. Emma Swan (Jennifer Morrison, “House”) knows how to take care of herself. She’s a 28-year-old bail bondsperson who’s been on her own ever since she was abandoned as a baby. But when Henry (Jared Gilmore, “Mad Men”) — the son she gave up years ago — finds her, everything changes. Henry is now 10 years old and in desperate need of Emma’s help. He believes that Emma actually comes from an alternate world, and that she’s Snow White (Ginnifer Goodwin, “Big Love”) and Prince Charming’s (Josh Dallas) missing daughter. According to his book of fairytales, they sent her away to protect her from the Evil Queen’s (Lana Parrilla) curse, which trapped the characters of fairytale world forever, frozen in time, and brought them into our modern world.
“Once Upon a Time” stars Ginnifer Goodwin as Snow White/Mary Margaret, Jennifer Morrison as Emma Swan, Robert Carlyle as Rumplestiltskin/Mr. Gold, Lana Parrilla as Evil Queen/Regina, Josh Dallas as Prince Charming/David, Eion Bailey as August, Jared Gilmore as Henry Mills and Raphael Sbarge as Jiminy Cricket/Archie Hopper.
Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz are creators and executive producers. Steve Pearlman (ABC’s “V”) is also executive producer. The show is from ABC Studios.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/OnceABC Twitter: Twitter.com/OnceABC Hashtag: #OnceUponATime
“PRIVATE PRACTICE”
From Shonda Rhimes, the Golden Globe-winning creator of “Grey’s Anatomy,” comes the story of a team of gifted doctors working together to change the lives of their patients for the better as they look to one another for friendship and love.
The doctors of Seaside Health and Wellness work on the most difficult cases, patients whose medical needs often pose moral and ethical dilemmas. Though they may heatedly disagree at work, and their personal lives may complicate matters, at the end of the day, they are the best of friends, always ready to be there for one another.
“Private Practice” stars Kate Walsh as Dr. Addison Forbes Montgomery, Tim Daly as Dr. Pete Wilder, Benjamin Bratt as Jake Reilly, KaDee Strickland as Dr. Charlotte King, Paul Adelstein as Dr. Cooper Freedman, Brian Benben as Dr. Sheldon Wallace and Caterina Scorsone as Dr. Amelia Shepherd, with Taye Diggs as Dr. Sam Bennett and Amy Brenneman as Dr. Violet Turner.
“Private Practice” was created by Shonda Rhimes (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal”) and is executive-produced by Rhimes, Betsy Beers (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal”), Mark Gordon (“The Hoax,” “Saving Private Ryan”), Mark Tinker (“St. Elsewhere,” “NYPD Blue”), Jennifer Cecil and Barbie Kligman. “Private Practice” is an ABC Studios Production.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/PrivatePractice Twitter: Twitter.com/PrivatePractice Hashtag: #PrivatePractice
“REVENGE”
Emily Thorne (Emily Van Camp) is the newest arrival in the Hamptons. By all appearances, she’s a friendly and sophisticated “girl next door,” but the exclusive world she’s immersed herself in is tied to a dark family history and Emily is anything but what she seems. Seventeen years ago, Emily’s father was framed for a horrific crime by neighbors he trusted, and was sentenced to a life in prison. She never saw her father again and spent her childhood consumed by rage, loss and betrayal. Years later, Emily returns under an assumed identity with one endgame – REVENGE, every social overture a carefully planned chip at the foundation of her sworn enemies, until their lives come crashing down around them.
“Revenge” stars Madeleine Stowe as Victoria Grayson, Emily VanCamp as Emily Thorne, Gabriel Mann as Nolan Ross, Henry Czerny as Conrad Grayson, Ashley Madekwe as Ashley Davenport, Nick Wechsler as Jack Porter, Josh Bowman as Daniel Grayson, Christa B. Allen as Charlotte Grayson and Connor Paolo as Declan Porter.
“Revenge” is created by Mike Kelley (“Swingtown”) who executive produces along with Marty Bowen and Wyck Godfrey (“Twilight”). The series is produced by ABC Studios.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/RevengeABC Twitter: Twitter.com/Revenge Hashtag: #Revenge
“SCANDAL”
From the creator and executive producers of “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Private Practice” comes a drama revolving around the life and work of a professional crisis manager and her dysfunctional staff.
A former media relations consultant to the President, Olivia Pope (Kerry Washington) dedicates her life to protecting and defending the public images of our nation’s elite. After leaving the White House, the power consultant opened her own firm, hoping to start a new chapter — both professionally and personally — but she can’t seem to completely cut ties with her past. Slowly it becomes apparent that her staff, who specialize in fixing the lives of other people, can’t quite fix the ones closest at hand — their own.
“Scandal” stars Kerry Washington as Olivia Pope, Henry Ian Cusick as Stephen Finch, Columbus Short as Harrison Wright, Guillermo Diaz as Huck, Darby Stanchfield as Abby Whelan, Katie Lowes as Quinn Perkins, Tony Goldwyn as President Fitzgerald Grant and Jeff Perry as Cyrus.
“Scandal” was written by Shonda Rhimes (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice”). Rhimes, Betsy Beers (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Private Practice”) and Mark Wilding (“Grey’s Anatomy”) are executive producers. Paul McGuigan is the director. “Scandal” is produced by ABC Studios.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ScandalABC Twitter: Twitter.com/ScandalABC Hashtag: #Scandal
COMEDY
“DON’T TRUST THE B—- IN APARTMENT 23″
After a naïve Midwestern girl’s big city dreams are dashed during her first week in New York, she finds herself living with her worst nightmare, in a hilarious, contemporary comedy about a female odd couple who are surrounded by an outrageous cast of characters.
“Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23″ stars Krysten Ritter as Chloe, Dreama Walker as June, Liza Lapira as Robin, Michael Blaiklock as Eli, Eric André as Mark and James Van Der Beek as James Van Der Beek.
Created and written by Nahnatchka Khan, “Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23″ is executive-produced by Khan, David Hemingson and Jeff Morton. The series is a production of 20th Century Fox Television.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Apartment23 Twitter: Twitter.com/Apt23 Hashtag: #Apt23
“HAPPY ENDINGS”
Forget who gets to keep the ring – when a couple splits, the real question is, who gets to keep the friends? Alex and Dave’s wedding was supposed to be the happiest day of their lives, for them and their long-time friends… until Alex left groom-to-be Dave at the altar.
The breakup, in the words of one pal, was a “huge game changer” that complicated everyone’s lives and made everyone question their own choices. Alex and Dave were the glue that kept their urban family together: Alex’s sister, Jane, a suburban housewife, and her buttoned-up husband, Brad; Max, their perpetually underemployed gay friend; and Penny, who worries about never finding the right guy.
A year later, this gang is still friends, although Alex and Dave are trying to figure out just where their relationship stands. Penny is convinced that 2011 will be “The Year of Penny,” and she starts things off by buying her dream condo. She’ll also be getting a new roommate when Alex moves in. Max may make the biggest change of all when he does something his friends never thought he’d do… get a steady job.
Called “the funniest show on TV” by Associated Press, “Happy Endings” is a raucous comedy about six dysfunctional, thirtysomething friends living in Chicago: Shop owner Alex (Elisha Cuthbert) and her ex-fiancé Dave (Zachary Knighton), an aspiring restaurateur who runs a food truck called “Steak Me Home Tonight”; crazy-in-love husband and wife duo Brad and Jane, who’s also Alex’s sister, (Damon Wayans Jr., Eliza Coupe); Max (Adam Pally), their perpetually underemployed gay friend; and singleton Penny (Casey Wilson), always in pursuit of, but never quite finding, the right guy.
“Happy Endings” was created by executive producer David Caspe (the upcoming feature film “That’s My Boy”), “Happy Endings” is executive produced by Jamie Tarses (“HawthoRNe”), Jonathan Groff (“How I Met Your Mother”), Anthony & Joe Russo (“Arrested Development,” “Community”). The series is from Sony Pictures Television and ABC Studios.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HappyEndings Twitter: Twitter.com/HappyEndingsABC Hashtag: #HappyEndings
“LAST MAN STANDING”
Tim Allen returns for a second season as the traditional “manly man,” Mike Baxter, whose mission it is to get men back to their rightful place in society. You can’t get manlier than Mike Baxter. Of course, he drives a pick-up truck and before being grounded from his company’s international photo shoots, Mike remembers the exciting adventures he had while traveling for work. He is the marketing director for The Outdoor Man, an iconic outdoor sporting goods store. He works there with his long-time boss and friend, Ed, and the somewhat sensitive Kyle, who considers Mike his mentor. When Ed put Mike in charge of the company’s webpage, Mike discovered that the Internet provides him with just the outlet he needs. He looks at it as a platform that gives him a voice to appeal to those who agree that manliness is under assault, and a pulpit for his opinions about feeling like the last real man in a woman’s world. While Mike is king of the hill at work, he’s the odd man out in a home that is dominated by women — his wife, Vanessa, a geologist, and their three daughters: 14-year-old tomboy Eve, the outspoken Mandy, 18, and Kristin, a 21-year-old single mom living at home with her toddler son, Boyd, possibly Mike’s only ally.
“Last Man Standing” stars Tim Allen as Mike, Nancy Travis, as Vanessa, Kaitlyn Dever as Eve, Molly Ephraim as Mandy, Alexandra Krosney as Kristin, Christoph Sanders as Kyle and Hector Elizondo as Ed.
The half-hour comedy is from Twentieth Century Fox Television. The series was created by Jack Burditt and executive-produced by Kevin Abbott, Tim Allen, Marty Adelstein, Shawn Levy, Becky Clements, Richard Baker, Rick Messina, Andy Gordon, Marsh McCall and Kevin Hench.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LastManStandingABC Twitter: Twitter.com/LastManABC Hashtag: #LastManStanding
“THE MIDDLE”
Two-time Emmy winner Patricia Heaton stars in this warm and witty single-camera comedy about raising a family and lowering your expectations. Middle-aged, middle class and living in the middle of the country in Orson, Indiana, Frankie Heck is a harried wife and working mother of three who uses her wry wit and sense of humor in an attempt to get her family through each day intact. Her work life’s no easier as she struggles day to day as the least successful sales woman at the town’s only surviving car dealer. Frankie’s unflappable husband, Mike, is manager at the local quarry and her sardonic partner in the daily grind that is raising their average – yes, most definitely average – family.
Between juggling shifts and picking up fast food dinners eaten in front of the TV, Frankie and Mike raise their kids with love, humor and solid Midwestern practicality. Axl, the oldest, is a jock slacker who eats them out of house and home and walks around the house in his underwear. Then there’s Sue, their extraordinarily ordinary teen daughter, who fails at just about everything she tries with great gusto. This year she entered high school and continues to not only navigate the raging waters of school life but co-exist with Axl, who is not too thrilled with his little sister being at the same school. And last is Brick, their quirky fourth-grader, who reads constantly, whispers to himself and unapologetically marches to the beat of his own drummer. But through all the madness shines a loving family, and together, the Hecks are putting THE MIDDLE on the map.
“The Middle” stars Patricia Heaton as Frankie, Neil Flynn as Mike, Charlie McDermott as Axl, Eden Sher as Sue and Atticus Shaffer as Brick.
“The Middle” was created and is executive produced by Eileen Heisler and DeAnn Heline. The series is from Warner Bros. Television. Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheMiddle Twitter: Twitter.com/TheMiddle_ABC Hashtag: #TheMiddle
“MODERN FAMILY”
ABC’s groundbreaking and multiple Emmy Award-winning hit comedy series, “Modern Family,” takes a modern and often hilarious look at the complications that come with being a family today. Jay Pritchett, with his much younger wife Gloria and her son Manny, sits as the patriarch of a large blended family that includes his grown daughter Claire, who has three kids of her own with her husband Phil, and a grown son Mitchell, who adopted a Vietnamese baby with his gay life partner Cameron. These three families are unique unto themselves, and together they give us a window into the sometimes warm, sometimes twisted embrace of the modern family.
“Modern Family” stars Ed O’Neill as Jay, Sofía Vergara as Gloria, Julie Bowen as Claire, Ty Burrell as Phil, Eric Stonestreet as Cameron, Jesse Tyler Ferguson as Mitchell, Sarah Hyland as Haley, Ariel Winter as Alex, Nolan Gould as Luke, Rico Rodriguez as Manny and Aubrey Anderson-Emmons as Lily.
The series is produced by Twentieth Century Fox Television in association with Levitan Lloyd Productions. Steven Levitan and Christopher Lloyd are executive producers/creators.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ModernFamily Twitter: Twitter.com/ModernFam Hashtag: #ModernFamily
“SUBURGATORY”
Single father George only wants the best for his 16-year-old daughter, Tessa. So when he finds a box of condoms on her nightstand, he moves them both out of their apartment in New York City to a house in the suburbs. But all Tessa sees is the horror of over-manicured lawns and plastic Franken-moms. Being in the ‘burbs can be hell, but it also may just bring Tessa and George closer than they’ve ever been.
The show stars Jeremy Sisto as George Altman, Jane Levy as Tessa Altman, Carly Chaikin as Dalia Royce, Rex Lee as Mr. Wolfe, Allie Grant as Lisa Shay, Alan Tudyk as Noah Werner, Cheryl Hines as Dallas Royce and Ana Gasteyer as Sheila Shay.
Emily Kapnek (“Hung”) writes and executive-produces this bitingly ironic single-camera comedy. It is produced by Warner Bros. Television.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SuburgatoryABC Twitter: Twitter.com/SuburgatoryABC Hashtag: #Suburgatory
ALTERNATIVE
“AMERICA’S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEOS”
“America’s Funniest Home Videos” begins its 23nd season by flaunting what has made it the longest running primetime entertainment show in ABC history — videos that are genuinely funny. Host Tom Bergeron is back with an abundant supply of fresh clips that will have families laughing from coast to coast. There have been many imitators, but there is only one “America’s Funniest Home Videos.”
In its 23 seasons to date, “America’s Funniest Home Videos” has given away over $12 million in prize money and evaluated more than half a million videotapes from home viewers. Viewers wishing to submit home videos to “America’s Funniest Home Videos” should visit www.ABC.com for details. Vin Di Bona is executive producer, with Todd Thicke and Michele Nasraway serving as co-executive producers.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AFV Twitter: Twitter.com/AFVOfficial Hashtag: #AFV
“THE BACHELOR”
ABC’s “The Bachelor” is the original primetime romance reality series that offers one lucky man and 25 lucky women the unique opportunity to find true love. This season the hit series will feature its 17th edition with the new Bachelor getting to know 25 women via a series of social gatherings and exotic, romantic dates – some in groups, some individually. He will introduce some of the women to his family and will visit their hometowns for a slice of their lives in an effort to determine the woman with whom he is most compatible. At the end of the journey, filled with drama and surprises against the backdrop of spectacular international settings, the Bachelor may quite possibly have found true love. But the big question is: After all of this, will he pop the question, and will she say yes?
“The Bachelor” is hosted by Chris Harrison and produced by Next Entertainment in association with Warner Horizon Television. Mike Fleiss and Martin Hilton are executive producers.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheBachelor Twitter: Twitter.com/BachelorABC Hashtag: #TheBachelor
“DANCING WITH THE STARS”
Hosted by Tom Bergeron (“America’s Funniest Home Videos”) and Brooke Burke-Charvet (“Dancing with the Stars” Season Seven Champion), the celebrities perform choreographed dance routines which will be judged by renowned Ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer/choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba.
“Dancing with the Stars” is the U.S. version of the international smash hit series, “Strictly Come Dancing.” This version is produced by BBC Worldwide Productions. Conrad Green serves as executive producer and Ashley Edens-Shaffer and Joe Sungkur are co-executive producers. Alex Rudzinski directs.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/dancingwiththestars Twitter: Twitter.com/DancingABC Hashtag: #DWTS
“SHARK TANK”
“Shark Tank,” the hit show that gives budding entrepreneurs the chance to make their dreams come true, has critics calling the business-themed show “one of the best reality shows out there” and “Econ 101 for tough times.” The critically-acclaimed show is up sharply over its prior season average, growing by 15% in Total Viewers and 20% in young adults. In its strongest season ever, teens made “Shark Tank” their top network viewing choice on Friday nights and the broad-appealing series led its network rivals in its 8:00 p.m. time slot. The Sharks — tough, self-made, multi-millionaire tycoons — will be back for a fourth season, continuing their search to invest in the best products and businesses that America has to offer. In the process, they may part with their own hard-earned cash and give innovative entrepreneurs the funding they desperately need to jumpstart their business ideas. But the Sharks have a goal, too — to get a return on their investment and own a piece of the next big business idea. When the Sharks hear a great idea, they’re ready to fight each other for a piece of it; and when more than one of them wants to sink their teeth into a top-notch idea, a war between them can erupt. The Sharks are: billionaire Mark Cuban, owner and chairman of HDNet and outspoken owner of the 2011 NBA championship Dallas Mavericks; real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran; “Queen of QVC” Lori Greiner; technology innovator Robert Herjavec; fashion and branding expert Daymond John and venture capitalist Kevin O’Leary. Mark Burnett, Clay Newbill and Phil Gurin are the executive producers of “Shark Tank,” based on the Japanese “Dragons’ Den” format created by Nippon Television Network Corporation. The series is from Sony Pictures Television.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SharkTank Twitter: Twitter.com/ABCSharkTank Hashtag: #SharkTank
“WIFE SWAP” and “CELEBRITY WIFE SWAP”
“Wife Swap,” the critically-acclaimed unscripted reality show that takes us into the intimate heart of the American family home, returns for a seventh season. Also, “Celebrity Wife Swap,” which put a new spin on “Wife Swap” by revealing the various ways some controversial celebrities live their lives, returns for a second fun season. In “Wife Swap,” two families with very different values are chosen to take part in a two-week long challenge. The wives from these two families exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover just what it’s like to live another woman’s life. In “Celebrity Wife Swap,” the mothers in two celebrity families also switch lifestyles, children and homes (but not bedrooms), and embark on a journey like no other. They are given the chance to see how another celebrity raises children and deals with life in the spotlight, while allowing both couples the opportunity to re-discover why they love each other and why they decided to get together in the first place. Each week, the episodes will show the extraordinarily different ways families from across the country live their lives, and the experience will be a mind-blowing experiment that can end up changing them forever. Executive producers for “Wife Swap” include Natalka Znak, Claire O’Donohoe and Mike Gamson. Executive producers for “Celebrity Wife Swap” include Natalka Znak, Claire O’Donohoe and Bruce Toms. Both series are produced by Zodiak USA.
ABC NEWS
“PRIMETIME: WHAT WOULD YOU DO?”
When people see a situation that cries out for action, do they step in, back away or just walk on by? Using hidden cameras, “Primetime: What Would You Do?” establishes everyday scenarios and then captures people’s reactions. Whether people are compelled to act or mind their own business, John Quiñones reports on their split-second and often surprising decision-making process. “”Primetime: What Would You Do?” has won awards from the Chicago International Television Festival, and the Avon Foundation’s 2006 Voice of Change award for exposing “injustice and wrongdoing against women and bringing the message of domestic violence to the mainstream.”
“20/20″
The ABC News primetime news magazine “20/20″ has distinguished itself as one of the most esteemed programs in broadcast journalism. Celebrating its 32nd anniversary this season, “20/20″ continues to combine hard-hitting investigative reports, newsmaker interviews and compelling human interest and feature stories. The program is anchored by award-winning journalists Elizabeth Vargas and Chris Cuomo. For over three decades “20/20″ has offered viewers reports and stories that have changes lives.
Featured contributors to the program include ABC News correspondents Jim Avila, Juju Chang, Bill Ritter, John Quiñones, Jay Schadler, Deborah Roberts and Brian Ross, as well as contributing correspondent Chris Connelly. Barbara Walters, Diane Sawyer and Cynthia McFadden also ANCHOR reports. David Sloan is executive producer of “20/20.”
UPDATE: 20/20 will air on Fridays in November at 10pm instead of Primetime.
