Idol's Four Panel Jury A Bust?

I have been half-heartedly watching American Idol this year. One reason is that for the most part the talent has been mediocre at best and secondly, I do not understand the necessity for the fourth judge. When I first heard that there would be a new judge on the Idol scene, I will admit that I was curious. I wondered what type of personality the new judge would have and what she would bring to the table as far as judging is concerned.

I was really hoping that it would be someone with an extensive musical background that would be qualified to judge a contest such as this with impartiality and prudence. While the new judge, Kara DioGuardi does have a musical background (songwriter), I find nothing intriguing or exciting about her. Paula Abdul must agree with me because she has publicly stated that the fourth judge slows the show down and interrupts its flow.

Are there any fans of Idol still with the show in the 8th season and if so, what do you think of the addition of the fourth judge?

The Return of South Central

TV ONE is broadcasting eight episodes of the series South Central on Monday, February 23rd at 1:00 AM CST. The series, set in South Central Los Angeles, dealt with the lives of an African American family, the Moseleys, and issues, such as gang violence, drugs, dating, sex, school, and employment. Joan Moseley (Tina Lifford) is a divorced mother, raising three children without any financial assistance from her former husband. The financial situation becomes even more complicated when she is laid off from her job at the neighborhood market. Her children include Andrè (Larenz Tate), Tasha (Tasha Scott) and foster son Deion (Keith Mbulo). Rounding out the casts was Joan’s friends, Dr. Ray McHenry (Ken Page) and Sweets (Paula Kelly).

South Central featured many guest stars including Jennifer Lopez, Shar Jackson, Michael Beach, and Maia Campbell. This show provided a realistic portrayal of urban life and was very popular among critics. In retrospect the series might have been too real airing not long after the Los Angeles riots. I remember one episode that showed Tasha outside in the yard singing under a helicopter (ghetto bird) spotlight. The show aired on Tuesday nights following Roc.

Due to a decline in ratings of the entire night of programming, FOX cancelled all of the shows on that night, which included The Sinbad Show and In Living Color. The cancellation of the series, which had a predominately black cast, prompted Jesse Jackson to call for a boycott of the network for what he called their institutional racism. FOX maintained that the series were low rated and the decision to cancel was not racially motivated. Thanks to TV ONE for bringing back a show that never really had a chance. I found this clip of Tasha Scott and a scene with her acting opposite CCH Pounder is contained here.

Thursday Thirteen # 30 - New Television Shows That I Will Give A Try This Season

The new television is here and I always ring in the fall season by watching all of the new shows of interest to me at least once. Because of the television strike last year, the season was pretty much ruined for me. New shows did not stand a chance, luckily the networks are bring shows like "Pushing Daisies" and "Dirty, Sexy, Money" back. Here are 13 shows that I intend to give a try.

1. The Mentalist (CBS) California detective Patrick Jane is notorious for his flamboyant personal style, not to mention his former career as a phony psychic, but what can you say? The guy has a remarkable track record for solving major crimes through uncanny powers of observation. That doesn't mean California Bureau of Investigation Senior Agent Teresa Lisbon, along with her staff, has to be thrilled to have such a loose cannon as a key member of her team

2. Privileged (CBS) Megan Smith, a 23-year-old Yale graduate and aspiring journalist, finds herself thrust into what seems like an alternate reality when she is fired from her tabloid job and lands a gig as live-in tutor to Rose and Sage, the high-maintenance twin teenage granddaughters of cosmetics mogul Laurel Limoges. Megan is so dazzled by the posh trappings of her new Palm Beach job, which includes live-in chef Marco, that she doesn't even notice her best friend, Charlie, is secretly in love with her.

3. The Fringe (CBS) FBI Special Agent Olivia Dunham is assigned to investigate the bizarre case of an international flight that landed at Boston's Logan Airport with a load of passengers and crew members who all have died grisly deaths. After another agent, John Scott, is nearly killed during the investigation, Olivia's search for clues takes her to institutionalized genius Dr. Walter Bishop, whose estranged son, Peter, may prove helpful in solving this mystery. After meeting manipulative corporate executive Nina Sharp, however, Olivia and her colleagues begin to realize the riddle of that ghastly flight is only a fragment of an even more shocking truth.

4. Do Not Disturb (FOX) Demanding celebrities flock to The Inn, a chic and very hip Manhattan hotel recently named one of the Big Apple's 10 Best Places to Stay, where they know the stylish staff will bend over backwards to please them. It's a different matter, however, behind the scenes, where arrogant, detail-obsessed general manager Neal often clashes with Rhonda, the brash and outspoken head of the human resources department.

5. Knight Rider (NBC) In this reinvention of the 1980s cult hit, former Army Ranger Mike Tracer is recruited to protect the Knight Industries Three Thousand, or KITT -- a superintelligent computer disguised as a sleek Ford Mustang -- from the ruthless bad guys who killed its inventor.

6. The Ex List (CBS) Hey, you think your love life is complicated? Businesswoman Bella Bloom just found out from a psychic that she already has dated the man she is destined to marry -- and if she doesn't reconnect with him in the coming year, she'll remain alone. Forever. At first, Bella discounts the prophecy as a party trick, but when the psychic's other predictions start coming true, Bella makes a frantic U-turn down Heartbreak Highway to find the ex who is meant to be Mister Right.

7. My Own Worst Enemy (NBC) This surreal drama follows a man with two identities: Henry Spivey, a mild-mannered family man who works as an efficiency expert, and Edward Albright, a covert operative who speaks 13 languages and is trained to kill with his teeth. Each identity is unaware of the other, until the carefully constructed psychological wall between the two is breeched, thrusting both Henry and Edward into situations with which they are ill-equipped to cope.

8. Opportunity Knocks (ABC) You say you've always wanted to be on a game show but somehow just couldn't make the effort? Well, ABC has the show for you, as host J.D. Roth and his mobile team pull up each week in front of a suburban contestant's home with a semi loaded with furniture, electronics and big cash prizes the family can win on the spot if they can answer questions about one another correctly, playing the game right there on their front lawn, in front of their friends and neighbors.

9. Gary Unmarried (CBS) Painting contractor Gary Brooks tries to juggle his fragile new romance with Vanessa, a single mom, with the demands of his first marriage, which include ex-wife Allison -- who had to be the Enforcer to Gary's Fun Dad -- and their two kids, socially inept 14-year-old Tom and politically correct daughter Louise, 11.

10. Stylista (CW) Eleven aspiring fashionistas compete for an editorial job at Elle magazine by performing assistant tasks and editorial assignments for the magazine's fashion news director, Anne Slowey.

11. Valentine (CW) A group of Greek gods live together and help mortals find their soul mates

12. In Harms Way (CW) An hour-long reality show that follows folks with dangerous occupations, like storm chasers or firefighters.

13. Raising The Bar (TNT) Steven Bochco does it again! I already started watching this one. It is a great show about the inner workings of the public defenders and prosecutors offices in NYC. It's great to see Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Gloria Reuben and Currie Graham.

Check out this clip from "Raising The Bar"



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Golden Girl Estelle Getty Passes On At 84

I opened my Yahoo page to find that Estelle Getty had died at her Hollywood Blvd. home this morning at 5:30 AM. She is best known as Sophia Petrillo on the long running television show "Golden Girls". She was arguably the most funny of the four women and avid viewers of the show have the most difficult time deciding which is their favorite among the stars of the show. Getty portrayed the mother of Golden Girl Dorothy Zbornak (Bea Arthur) and so it was always thought she was much older than the other three women, which in actuality she was a year younger than Arthur.

Born in New York City on July 25, 1923 and is considered a late bloomer. She was 47 years of age when she performed in her first off-Broadway play. Her most important stage role was playing Harvey Fierstein's mother in the Broadway play "Torch Song Trilogy".

Ms. Getty stopped making public appearances in 2000 after revealing that she had Parkinson's Disease, osteoporosis and Alzheimer's Disease. It was later found that she had been misdiagnosed and that she in fact suffered from Lewy Body Dementia, which has some of the symptomatology as Alzheimer's Disease.

In 2003 Lifetime Television hosted a Golden Girls Reunion Show in which Ms. Getty was unable to attend due to failing health. She received 7 Emmy and 3 Golden Globe nominations for her role on "The Golden Girls", winning each award once. Paying tribute to the star, her longtime care-giver Paul Chapdelaine says, "Sadly, today July 22, 2008 at 5:35 a.m. Pacific Time, we said our last good-byes to our little friend Estelle, who passed away and made her journey to the great beyond. Although it was a trip that she never wanted to take, she went gracefully, in the comfort of her own home, surrounded by her family and her very loving care-givers". Here is the link with the story and enjoy the below clip from the show. RIP Ms. Getty.

Latham and Long Get Animated

Following in the footsteps of Regina King, Sanaa Latham and Nia Long, arguably two of the most attractive actresses in films will lend their voices to characters on “The Cleveland Show”. If you watch “The Family Guy” you will recognize Cleveland as one of Peter’s buddies. The show is merely a spinoff; which I do not recall happening in recent years, in the cartoon world. There might have been a spinoff or two involving “Archie” in the 70’s. I am sure Malcolm of Pop Culture Dish can shed some light on this topic. Sanaa Latham will portray Cleveland’s wife, Donna and Nia Long will voice Cleveland’s stepdaughter, Roberta. Anyhow, I like cartoons that cater to adults, so I will definitely give it a try. You can read more about the show here.

Don Cornelius Sells The Soul Train Franchise

As a teenager each and every one of my Saturday mornings was spent doing my chores designated for the day and watching “Soul Train”. Sometime I would watch “American Bandstand” when Dick Clark had a guest that I wanted to see; however I watched “Soul Train” religiously. Don Cornelius, with his huge afro and his laid back demeanor was a perfect complement to the high energy dance moves and talented array of guest stars who graced the stage week after week. My best friend and I made a vow to get on that show (it never happened of course).

I was a little sad to here that after 37 years, "the hippest trip America" has come under new ownership. Although the show was never the same after Cornelius’s departure as host and I haven’t watched the show in years, I still feel like I have lost something from my youth.

It seems the franchise, has been sold to MadVision Entertainment, a a multimedia company specializing in branded urban content and production. The deal includes production rights to "Soul Train's" weekly series, including a catalog of more than 1,100 hours of archival footage. New episodes haven't been produced since 2006, but it's understood that MadVision may bring the show back sometime in the future.

"The 'Soul Train' legacy and brand are of the utmost importance to me and to 'Soul Train's' millions of fans," Cornelius told the Hollywood Reporter. "After years of offers, I feel the time is now finally right to pass the torch. The MadVision team understands and respects my vision."
Peter Griffith, who founded MadVision with Kenard Gibbs and Anthony Maddox, said the company also is eyeing new opportunities for "Soul Train" on DVD, broadband and video-on-demand. The goal, according to the new owners, is to preserve the show's legacy and expand the brand for the generations to come.

I don’t think it can ever be the same. Oh well, as Don would say "... and you can bet your last money, it's gonna be a stone gas, honey! I'm Don Cornelius, and as always in parting, we wish you love, peace and soul!" I would like everyone to join me in bidding a fond farewell to the SOOOOUUUULLLL TRAIN!

Enjoy This Clip Featuring The Late Great Willie Hutch and Don Cornelius with his big Afro

In Praise of Good Television - Martin

I have been on a vintage television kick of late and thought I would mention another of my favorite shows from the past. Martin was a sassy sitcom centering on a radio-and-television personality named Martin Payne. The series focuses on Martin's romantic relationship with girlfriend Gina Waters, his job changes from a radio personality to a television personality, and the variety of friends Martin hangs out with along the way: the loud-mouthed and sassy Pam James and his best friends Tommy Strong and Cole Brown.

Star, Martin Lawrence, also portrays of host of wild characters on the show. His neighbor Sheneneh; his mother Mama Payne; Otis the security guard; Jerome the gold-toothed player; Roscoe the snot-nosed kid who's always looking for a leg up; Bob, the white guy, King-Beef, Elroy, and many more. Martin is the center of attention, as each episode takes you from one hilarious circumstance to another.

Martin's girlfriend (and later, his wife) was Gina Waters Payne an ad executive who could, on occasion, be as egotistical and badly behaved as Martin, but otherwise maintained a level head. Speaking of heads, one of the running gags of the show was the size of Gina's dome. Tommy was a friendly guy who usually became the most irritated with Cole's stupidity, often commenting "Cole you Stupid".

Because no one ever knew what Tommy did for a living and because Tommy himself would never say what he did for a living, dancing around the question, a common running gag occurred whenever Tommy mentioned his job in a given situation, to which everyone would exclaim in unison, "You ain't GOT no job, MAN!" Pam completed the circle of friends. She and Martin had a true love/hate relationship (mostly the latter!), as they constantly traded insulting wisecracks between each other, but were there for each other when push came to shove. Ironically, Arnold is one of Lawrence's closest friends in real life.

Other characters who showed up from time to time were Brotha Man, the upstairs neighbor, Hustle Man, the guy who sold stolen goods, Sheneneh's girlfriends, Martin's boss Stan, and his mother's cackling buddies. There was talk of the cast doing a movie, much like the cast from "Sex in the City" did earlier this year. I would go and see it because in its heyday Martin and his crew made for must see TV. Hijinks, laughter, quick-witted banter, and lotsa love, make this series one to last forever.

Good Times

I have been watching old shows like Thea and Different Strokes and thinking about how far television has evolved, specifically about how African Americans are represented on television, I realized that I could still count the notable and inspiring black characters this season on one hand. We all know black folk have come a long way in real life, but for some reason, TV still tells a different story. I think I prefer the black television of yesteryear. We've been so busy moving forward and not looking back that we've forgotten the black characters of the past who inspired us, worked hard, set positive examples for the community and made us proud to be black. Case in point: Good Times.

During my teens and early twenties, Good Times was often dismissed as a negative representation of black popular culture. People said it perpetuated stereotypes, and everyone focused on J.J. as “The Coon”. Recently I had a chance a marathon of Good Times on TV One. I have often relayed to others that this is one of my favorite television show of all times. After really watching the show through 2008 eyes, I realized that Good Times actually had it right.

Looking at the show now so many things stood out to me, especially after watching several shows in a row. First, the Evans family probably had more integrity than any African-American TV family. Ever. Now before you jump in with the Huxtables, I have to say, the Evanses are far more impressive, because they actually had real life problems. The Huxtables, while they were a meaningful and entertaining acknowledgement of affluent black life, didn't struggle like the Evanses. Isn’t the true measure of a man (or woman) is how they perform when they’re down right? Well, the Evanses were down all the time with constant problems. Theo Huxtable's girlfriend was never shooting up heroin in the bathroom.

The Evanses had real life or death, how-we-gonna-eat problems. They faced poverty, VD, unemployment, discrimination, gangs, suicide, child abuse, drugs, alcohol, teen pregnancy, hypertension, illiteracy and the like. I mean, if there was a social issue, Good Times covered it. And the family's way of dealing with these issues always centered around morality, integrity, strength and just being downright decent. What African-American TV family represents those values today? Hell, what white family for that matter?

The Evanses had a strong two-parent home. James was clearly the leader of the family, but he and Florida still acted as partners. Their love for each other was evident. The kids respected the parents. They weren't obnoxious smart asses, and they weren't incorrigible troublemakers either. They were regular kids. They were us. Although they were poor, they were hopeful and eager to learn and jump at opportunity.

J.J. was a talented artist. What an incredible role model! I mean, as silly as J.J. was, he was a creative genius. Where can you find a talented African-American painter on TV today? He made black art and painting accessible to the world. He showed us a talent and an art form that many of us would have never been exposed to otherwise. He showed poor kids that poverty cannot stifle art or creativity. And the J.J. character allowed the producers to showcase the work of real life African-American artist Ernie Barnes (who did all the actual paintings shown). Where can you find African-American art on TV today? Do you realize how cool that is?

And Thelma. She was sexy, yet classy, and like all us women growing up, she made some mistakes and got into some sticky situations. Remember when she was about to marry that African fool or when she got felt up by Willona's creepy ex-husband Ray? I mean that's real life there. But through it all she grew up, stepped up when James died, always handled herself with class and grace, and she had a husband before she had a baby. Who would argue that she isn't a great role model for young women of any socio-economic class?

Finally Michael always kept racial issues in the forefront, injecting social consciousness into every conversation. Michael was a typical, bright, city kid. He was militant, excelled in school; he was strong but respectful of his parents. He also got involved with gangs, got drunk off Vita-Brite and beat up that fat kid in school that time. He went through what we all go through trying to find ourselves in this world. But he knew that education was the key to his success, and that thread ran throughout the show. Where can you find that now?

And as bad off as the Evanses were financially, they never asked for hand-outs or charity, never made excuses. They acknowledged racism, but never used it as a crutch. They just knew they had to work twice as hard because racism stacked the deck against them. If times were tough, James just worked harder. Florida and James always had a hopeful outlook. They always focused on hard work and its relationship to success. They helped their neighbors and ate dinner together. Can you imagine what a world this would be if we all embodied the character traits of the Evans family? It would be good times, indeed.

Looking at current representations of African Americans on TV, I can't believe I ever dismissed Good Times as being merely entertainment. Many African Americans at the time felt that since it was a show depicting a poor black family, then it was, bad, an insult, a stereotype. It was dismissed as something we had come too far to look at, an obsolete show with no value and no relevance to modern day black people.

I know folks out there are going to argue that the show "Jumped the Shark" when James died, even so where can you find a better representation of African Americans today? Tell you what, watch Good Times and then look at us now. Take a new look at the Evanses, and then look at our images on MTV and VH1 and BET. Look at the way African Americans are depicted on network dramas and sitcoms. Check out the evening news.

Then you tell me if Good Times didn't have it right?

American Idol - David Cook

I guess I am eating crow or humble pie tonight. I counted out my favorite last night and said he had given away the opportunity to be the 7th Season American Idol. I criticized that he did not sing songs that showcased his exceptional talent. This guy knew what he was doing. Simon Cowell apologized to Cook before the winner was announced saying that his criticism the night before had been bordered on disrespectful and that David Cook didn't deserve that. Cowell went on to say that for the first time in the history of the show he didn't care who won.

The night rejoined the top twelve contestants and a lot of stars from the past and present. Seal, Graham Nash, Donna Summer, and George Michael to name a few. It was great to see the return of some of the contestants who left in prior weeks. They seemed refreshed and ready to go on the upcoming summer tour that incidentally will be in my neck of the woods on August 25th.

After 97 million votes (a record of over 23 million votes) the winner was announced with less drama and fanfare than previous years. Ryan Seacrest simply said the winner of this year's Idol contest is David Cook. I don't think either David expected that outcome. David Archuleta was gracious in his defeat and David Cook broke down and cried. Now I don't know if he was crying because he was happy to be our American Idol or because he is locked in contractually to Simon Cowell for who knows how long. I hope it was the former. Congratulation David Cook!

Thursday Thirteen #22 - Thirteen Films/Television Shows With Jenifer Lewis Portraying the Role of the Mother

I was talking with my uncle about Jenifer Lewis always portraying the same character in every film and he came up with the idea for this this Thursday Thirteen. She has made her stock and trade portraying the mother in various films and television shows. Ms. Lewis has been everyone's mother from Angela Bassett in "What's Love Got To Do With It?" to Omar Gooding's mother in "Hanging With Mr. Cooper". I have compiled a list of memorable performances, including the character she portrayed and the character's name and real name of the actor who portrayed her son or daughter. Side Note: When she portrayed Zelma Bullock (mother of Tina Turner) she was less than two years older than Angela Bassett.

1. Zelma Bullock – Mother of Anna Mae Bullock (Tina Turner) in “What’s Love Got to do With It?” (1993). Tina Turner was portrayed by Angela Bassett.

2. Annie – Mother of Lucky in “Poetic Justice” (1993). Lucky was portrayed by Tupac Shakur.

3. Georgia Rodman – Mother of Earvin Rodman in Hanging With Mr. Cooper (1993). Earvin Rodman portrayed by Omar Gooding.

4. Mrs. Curtis – Mother of Anthony Curtis in “Dead Presidents” (1995). Anthony Curtis portrayed by Larenz Tate.

5. Marguerite Coleman – Mother of Julia Biggs in “The Preacher’s Wife” (1996). Julia Biggs portrayed by Whitney Houston.

6. Mama Rose – Mother of David English (Melvin Franklin) in “The Temptations” (1998). Melvin Franklin was portrayed by D. B. Woodside.

7. Melissa’s Mother – Mother of Melissa in “Grownups” (1999). Melissa portrayed by Tammy Townsend.

8. Joss’s Mother – Mother of Joss House in “The Time of Your Life” (1999). Joss House portrayed by Gina Ravera.

9. Louise Smith – Mother of Jackson and Cherie Smith in “The Brothers” (2001). Jackson Smith portrayed by Morris Chestnut and Cherie Smith portrayed by Tatyana Ali.

10. Veretta Childs – Mother of Toni Childs in “Girlfriends” (2003). Toni Childs portrayed by Jill Jones.

11. Lady Em – Mother of Todd Andersen in “The Cookout” (2004). Todd Andersen portrayed by Quran Pender.

12. C- Note’s Mom – Mother of C-Note in “Who’s Your Caddy” (2007). C-Note portrayed by Big Boi.

13. Mary (Mama) Clark – Mother of Clarice Clark in “Not Easily Broken” (2008). Clarice Clark portrayed by Taraji P. Henson.

Below is a clip from the Fox television show "Girlfriends" Get the Thursday Thirteen code here! The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted! View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

And The Winner Is!!!

After Watching American Idol last night I am going to call a winner...DAVID ARCHULETA! I have to be honest, I always thought that David Cook would be the victor. He had the whole package, great voice and very good guitar playing. Something happened last night because Cook seemed to lose steam as the show progress as Archuleta picked up more momentum with each song.

I am sure it didn't help that after every round Simon declared David Archuleta the winner. Don't get me wrong David Cook sounded good, it was just that David Archuleta sounded better. His song choices were definitely better. Cook missed his opportunity on his last song by not choosing to revisit songs he had performed well in prior weeks. Archuleta chose to perform "Imagine" and Cook should have countered with "Billie Jean". He is going to look back on this night and realize that he blew it. I would be interested to know if others watching the show saw the same thing that I saw. It sort of seemed like Cook choked at the end and I was actually rooting for him. Although I am not a rocker per se, the guy is mad talented. I concede, congratulation Archuleta.

DeGeneres, de Rossi Plan to Marry

DeGeneres announced her engagement to Portia de Rossi during a Thursday taping of her show, telling the studio audience that the California Supreme Court had struck down state laws against gay marriage. The studio audience leapt to its feet for a long ovation, and De Rossi was sitting in the audience, beaming and clapping. This monumental decision that will allow other states to join the state of Massachusetts in recognizing same-sex unions as legally binding.

The court ruling means same-sex couples could be able to tie the knot in as little as a month. However, religious and social conservatives are seeking to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot in November that would undo the Supreme Court ruling and ban gay marriage. I do not believe right-wingers will be successful in overturning the decision. This ruling will do for gay marriages what the Roe vs. Wade decision did for women’s right to choose.

Recognizing these unions is important because in some instances it allows partners to benefit from medical insurance, survivors rights, and to have a say in the decision making process during medical emergencies, etc. I do not see why others would have a problem with these unions.

Gay relationships can be just as committed as their heterosexual counterparts and it is only fair that they receive the same rights and privileges as married couples. Some people get hung up on the title of “marriage”, believing that the title should be reserved strictly for unions between men and women. It doesn’t have to be called marriage, in fact maybe we should have a contest to determine an appropriate moniker for same-sex unions.

Thursday Thirteen # 21 - Thirteen Favorite Television Bosses

I was watching this special last week about favorite classic television characters and it inspired this week’s Thursday Thirteen about some of my favorite television bosses from over the years. These bosses may not be the best, kindest, or most thoughtful, but they are among the funniest and most infamous in television history. These individual are in no particular order and feel free to share some of your favorite television bosses. Oh yeah, I am well aware that three of these bosses are cartoon characters (smile). 1. Montgomery Burns (Simpsons) 2. Louie De Palma (Taxi) – Portrayed by Danny De Vito 3. Khadijah James (Living Single) – Portrayed by Queen Latifah 4. Cosmo Spacely (The Jetson) 5. Sam Malone (Cheers) – Portrayed by Ted Danson 6. Sylvester Nate George Oscar Slate [Mr. Slate](The Flintstones) 7. Jack Donaghy (30 Rock) – Portrayed by Alec Baldwin 8. Wilemena Slater (Ugly Betty) – Portrayed by Vanessa L. Williams 9. Adrian Monk (Monk) – Portrayed by Tony Shaloub 10. Tim Taylor (Home Improvements) – Portrayed by Tim Allen 11. Anita Van Buren (Law & Order) – Portrayed by S. Epatha Merkerson 12. Simon Cowell (American Idol) 13. Miranda Bailey (Grey’s Anatomy) – Portrayed by Chandra Wilson Check out this clip from "30 Rock". Alec Baldwin is hilarious! Get the Thursday Thirteen code here! The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted! View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Thursday Thirteen # 19 - In Praise of “In Living Color” – Thirteen Characterizations on the Show

On April 15, 1990 'In Living Color' premiered on the Fox network. This landmark series was created, written, and executive produced by Keenan Ivory Wayans, who also starred on the show. This sketch comedy helped to launch the career of Jim Carrey, David Alan Grier, Tommy Davison, and later Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Lopez, Carrie Ann Inaba (Dancing With the Stars) as well as the talented Wayans clan.

From the very beginning regular viewers knew the show would controversial, innovative, and dare I say something that had never been seen before on network television. The show made you think by poking fun at some serious and not so serious topics. From the theme song by Heavy D to the dances choreographed by Rosie Perez and performed by “The Fly Girls” the show was an absolute winner. In tribute of the eighteen year anniversary, I would like to remember and share some of the characterizations introduced on the show.

1. Fire Marshall Bill – Jim Carrey is the inept fire marshal, who starts more fires than he extinguishes.

2. Benita Betrell – Kim Wayans portrays neighborhood gossips who know and tells all.

3. Hey Mon – The Headley’s are a Jamaican family that believes work the most important priority. Father has fifteen jobs, while mother has 9 jobs besides her housework.

4. Snaky Shack – The restaurant where you will find the menus right next to the roach motel.

5. Homeboy Shopping Network – Keenan and Damon Wayans as Wiz and the Ice Man who attempt to sell stolen goods to the consumer.

6. Antoine – The bum who is a victim of society and an entertainer.

7. Cephus and Ressie Maywether – No singing, jheri curl wearing, wannabe entertainers.

8. Bob Jackson – Jim Carrey portrays the black belt who runs a self-defense class for women.

9. Jheri’s Kids – Jim Carrey as Jheri Lewis, an entertainer who holds telethons to stamp out jheri curl syndrome.

10. Go On Girl! - T'Keyah Crystal Keymah portrays author and talk show host Shawanda Harvey.

1. I Write A Fast Song – Kim Wayans does a send up of singer Tracey Chapman, who looks out the window and “write a fast song” about the happenings in the neighborhood.

2. Homey the Clown – Damon Wayans plays the disgruntled clown who always utters the catch phrase “Homey don’t play that”.

3. Men on Films, Art, Books – Blaine Edwards and Antoine Meriwether are two gay critics who give their view on the latest offerings in the world of art.

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Cooking For Real

Sunny Anderson has a new show on the Food Network entitled "Cooking For Real". The first episode will air on Sunday, April 6th at 10:30 am EST/9:30 am CST. I love food and I love with the Food Network is doing these days by recognizing the diversity in food preparation. They truly have something for everyone now.

Cooking for Real will not be the first time Food Network audiences have seen Sunny Anderson. She debuted on the Network back in 2005 as a special guest on Emeril Live, cooking side by side Chef Emeril Lagasse — an appearance Sunny deemed as her greatest "foodie" moment ever. In 2007, Sunny co-hosted Food Network's series of specials, Gotta Get It, uncovering the latest and greatest food gadgets and gizmos on the market.

The newest edition is a young woman who was has served time in the United States Air Force. Sunny's passion for food paved the way for a passion with music. While growing up traveling the world as an Army brat, her parents always encouraged her to indulge in the local cuisine. When Sunny joined the Air Force, she continued her trek through the world for culinary finds and soon discovered she had a desire to explore music. Soon enough, she became an award-winning military radio host and news reporter.

Upon finishing her tour of duty with the Air Force, Sunny kept on her broadcast career playing radio host at stations in New Orleans, Montgomery, Detroit, and finally, in New York at hip hop radio powerhouse, HOT 97. Within a year, Vibe Magazine rated her show as one of the top 9 to listen to nationwide and crowned her, "Ruler of the Airwaves." Her radio success landed her guest hosting duties on MTV2, and voice over gigs on television and radio ads for Destiny's Child, LL Cool J, and John Legend.

Check out Ms. Anderson in this promo for a show she hosted on the network last year entitled "Gotta Get It".

Vintage Television - Thea

I was channel surfing and stopped on BET because a show from the early nineties was showing. Thea only aired for nineteen episodes, but it helped to launch the career of Brandy Norwood (Moesha). Stand-up comedienne Thea Vidale stars as Thea Turrell, a widowed mother of four who works in a Houston supermarket by day and runs a one-chair beauty salon on the corner of her porch in the evenings. Vidale was nominated for a People's Choice Award as Favorite Female in a New Series for her portrayal of the no-nonsense Thea. The series was cancelled shortly after only one season due to low ratings. Veteran actors Yvette Wilson, Jason Weaver, and Adam Jeffries round out the cast of the show. I really enjoyed the show when it first telecasted back in the day and I found that I still enjoy it. Thea airs on Saturday mornings at 9:00 am EST on BET.

Thursday Thirteen # 15 - Thirteen Classic Television Shows Now On DVD

I love television and I did not realize that so many vintage shows were now available on DVD. I choose thirteen titles you don’t see in reruns. Some of these take me back to my childhood, in fact there were so many it was really hard to choose. I hope you visit this website and find some titles that you enjoy as well. What are some of your favorite vintage television shows that you wish you could see again? Richard Pryor (1977) This show lasted only four episodes due to its controversial subject matter and its time slot (why would you put Richard Pryor on at 8:00). It is probably more famous for the talent it introduced, rather than the show itself. The cast included Robin Williams, Sarah Bernhard, John Witherspoon, and Tim Reid. Not bad huh? Tony Orlando and Dawn (1974) Tony Orlando, along with Telma Hopkins and Joyce Vincent Wilson were a singing group who had several hits including "Tie A Yellow Ribbon Around The Old Oak Tree". The went on to have a successful variety show which aired from 1974 - 1976. This was a time when variety shows ruled, much like reality televison now. It is a genre that I wish would return. Soupy Sales (19??) I remember watching this show before I even started elementary school on channel 7 out of Detroit. It was really silly with a lot of pie throwing and sight gags, something children really love. Too Close For Comfort (1980) Ted Knight and Nancy Dussault starred as Ted and Muriel Rush, owners of a San Francisco Duplex. There two adult daughter also live in the duplexYou can see Ted Knight on reruns of the Mary Tyler Moore Show, but he was really funny in this one as well. Hazel (1961) Hazel was a white maid (what a concept) who always seemed to be solving problems for her boss and his family. The series is notable for starring Whitney Blake, the real life mom of Meredith Baxter Birney, as the mother on the show. Untouchables (1959) Robert Stack and the voice of radio great Walter Winchell were the highlights of this show about Chicago gangland life. This show introduced the "drive by" as mobster were always rolling up blasting folks with their Tommy Guns. The show also featured well known guest stars each week. The Carol Burnett Show (1967) After Ed Sullivan's "Toast Of The Town" this is probably my favorite variety show of all times. Besides Ms. Burnett the show featured Harvey Korman, Vickie Lawrence, Lyle Waggoner, and Tim Conway, as well as weekly guest stars. This is the show that spawned "Mama's Family". Chico and the Man (1974) This show ran for four seasons, which was one season too long. After the suicide of the principle star (Freddie Prinze) the show should have ended; however the producers went out and found a kid, named him Chico and went on with the show (huge mistake). Jack Albertson, Della Reese, and Scatman Crothers also starred. The Judy Garland (1963) This variety show lasted for only one season. but what an enjoyable season it was. Variety shows were really big in the 1960's, with sketch comedy, etc., but this one consisted mostly of musical acts and singing. Mary Hartman Mary Hartman (1976) This show was innovative and fresh. A spoof of soap operas, this show poked fun at the genre in a unique way. A Norman Lear production set in Fernwood Ohio, the show dealt with many of the topics considered too racy so it aired at 11:00 pm in many markets. The show is also noted for launching the careers of Mary Kay Place, Graham Jarvis, Martin Mull, and Dabney Coleman. Johnny Quest (1964) I can hear the theme music in my head as I type this. Jonny, along with his family of Dr. Benjamin Quest, Hadji, their dog bandit and bodyguard Race Bannon. They traveled around the world investigating strange phenomenon and fighting villians. The Electric Company (1971) This was instructional television at its best. Not only did entertainers like Morgan Freeman Jr., Hattie Winston, Lee Chamberlain, and Irene Cara get their start on the show, but veterans like Bill Cosby and Rita Moreno were also regulars. Peter Gun (1958) Craig Stevens portrayed private detective Peter Gunn. This show is now remember for its jazzy theme music. What distinguished Gunn from other gumshoes of his day was that he epitomized "cool", hanging out at "Mother's" a waterfront club, where his girlfriend was an entertainer. Get the Thursday Thirteen code here! The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others' comments. It’s easy, and fun! Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted! View More Thursday Thirteen Participants