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Netflix

UPFRONTS: Netflix
"Star Search" Reboot Headlines Highlights

From The Futon Critic

At Netflix's third Upfront presentation, it was no secret that Netflix continues to deliver quality and variety in its series and films, which drives engagement and attention.

Among the new series...

- STAR SEARCH: Beyoncé. Britney Spears. Adam Sandler. Those are just a few of the global icons who appeared as total unknowns on Star Search during its original run from 1983 to 1995. And now, the legendary competition series is returning in a brand new, supercharged format for new audiences — live on Netflix, and ready to captivate both longtime fans and a whole new generation. This time around, the talent is bigger, the stakes are higher, and the format is more interactive than ever: Each week on Star Search, emerging performers in music, dance, comedy, and kids' acts will take the stage to compete for a shot at the spotlight. The competition unfolds over time, with eliminations raising the stakes and plenty of surprises along the way. It's part talent showcase, part high-stakes drama — and it's all live on Netflix. The reboot builds on the rich legacy of the show that helped launch the careers of a number of the industry's biggest names, including Dave Chappelle, Christina Aguilera, Justin Timberlake, and many more. After 20 years off the air, the show returns with all the nostalgia longtime fans have been waiting for—while pulling in a new generation with fresh faces and undeniable talent. Get ready to meet your next obsessions: the artists poised to take over your screens and playlists for years to come. The show was produced by Jesse Collins Entertainment (Rhythm + Flow, Primetime Emmys, American Music Awards, Super Bowl Halftime Show, Hollywood Squares), and executive producers Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, Madison Merritt, and Elaine Metaxas (for Jesse Collins Entertainment). The host, judges, and premiere date will be announced at a later time, so check back on Tudum for future updates. Casting is underway at the link below.
- MILLION DOLLAR SECRET: SEASON 2: Trust no one and suspect everyone, because a new season of Million Dollar Secret is on its way. The competition series where players must hunt down and eliminate a mystery millionaire among their ranks is back for Season 2 with an even twistier game of cat and mouse. Just like in Season 1, a group of competitors will travel to a lakeside estate known as The Stag for the chance to win $1million, which is awarded to one player at the start of the game. But with the new funds comes major complications, as the money's got a big target attached. Throughout the season, the players who did not receive the cash will attempt to expose the millionaire in order to secure the life-changing prize for themselves. As the money changes hands, alliances will form and fracture, and paranoia will come for even the most logical and level-headed players.
- BUILDING THE BAND (August): When it comes to love, meeting face-to-face is clearly overrated. But what about music? Building the Band, which launches later this summer, will attempt to answer this question by forming the next great music group without any of the members ever seeing each other. A group of talented singers will enter the competition for the opportunity of a lifetime: to find their perfect bandmates solely based on musical compatibility, connection, and, most importantly, merit. Nicole Scherzinger (The Pussycat Dolls), Liam Payne (One Direction), and Kelly Rowland (Destiny's Child) will serve as judges, bringing their unparalleled expertise and personal band experience to the competition. AJ McLean of The Backstreet Boys will host the series. As for the contestants, they'll be in complete control every step of the way, but is chemistry enough to make them a success? And when the bands finally do meet, how will looks, choreography, and style come into play? Expect plenty of drama, next-level artistry, and unforgettable performances.
- THE GOLDEN TICKET (summer): Ready for some scrumdiddlyumptious news? The Golden Ticket, an all-new reality competition series inspired by the bold and imaginative universe of Wonka, is coming to Netflix in 2026. Just like Charlie Bucket and the other children in Roald Dahl's original 1964 novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, a group of lucky contestants will have the chance to step into the whimsical wonderland — and to enter, you'll need a coveted golden ticket. To achieve sweet success in this high-stakes social experiment, players will have to adapt and strategize, as a golden ticket only gets you so far. Wonka's guests must withstand games, tests, and temptations designed to prove their instincts, resilience, and ability to thrive in the chaos of a retro-futuristic dreamscape. The filming location and other details will be revealed at a later date, so you'll need to exercise some patience, patience, little dear. Think you have what it takes? Click on the portal at the page to begin your journey into the unknown. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and reside in the U.S. Other terms and conditions may apply.

Then get ready for BIG BROTHER: UNLOCKED as three BB All-Stars offer never-before-seen broadcast footage from the house, exclusive interviews, surprise guest appearances and unprecedented behind-the-scenes access. Former Houseguests share firsthand insight and expertise as they analyze gameplay, assess the competition and give their insider's perspective every other Friday starting Friday, July 25 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT).

Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service, as well as on-demand. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live, but will have access to on-demand the day after the episode airs.

The Futon Critic
Netflix - Star Search
Netflix - Million Dollar Secret
Netflix - Building The Band
Netflix - The Golden Ticket
Deadline
Deadline
TV Line
The Wrap
Variety
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
Entertainment Weekly
Reality Blurred

posted 5/14/2025


Warner Bros. Discovery

UPFRONTS: Warner Bros. Discovery
The Big Story... A Name Change... Sort of...

From WBD PR

Channing Dungey, Chairman and CEO of the Warner Bros. Television Group and US Networks, announced programming plans and outlined a vision for the entertainment networks during the 2025 Upfront presentation for Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD). Dungey, who assumed oversight of such brands as Discovery, Food Network, HGTV, Investigation Discovery, TBS, TNT, TLC, Adult Swim, OWN and others in January, shared her top priorities for the portfolio which are to create the next generation of culture-shaping programming, broaden collaboration with WBD's streaming platform HBO Max® to attract unique audiences, and enhance and extend the power of the group's premium brands.

"Our strength lies in our ability to create shows that dominate the zeitgeist," said Dungey. "We produced six of the top 10 new unscripted series on cable last year, and we'll continue to push the boundaries of great storytelling to serve the dedicated fans of our signature franchises in bold new ways."

Dungey announced several exciting new series for 2025/2026 during the presentation to advertisers at Madison Square Garden, including:
- Food Network's competition show Family Recipe Showdown, produced and hosted by Academy Award®-winning actress Octavia Spencer, and Guy's Flavortown Games (wt), featuring Emmy® Award-winning host and restaurateur Guy Fieri;
- Discovery's Dancing With Sharks (wt), a Shark Week special hosted by Emmy® Award-winning television personality Tom Bergeron;
- Investigation Discovery's (ID) They Know What They Did, narrated and executive produced by Golden Globe® Award-nominated actress Jennifer Love Hewitt. ID also will premiere a compelling new series that features an unprecedented collaboration between Vanity Fair Studios and Dick Wolf's Wolf Entertainment;
- HGTV's latest home renovation competition Renovating the Bachelor Mansion (wt); and
- OWN's new reality series Heart & Hustle: Houston (wt).

Dungey also previewed TLC's upcoming 90 Day: Hunt for Love, the next spin-off in the 90 Day Fiancé juggernaut, and TNT's High Value Target (wt), a new scripted limited series about the interrogation of Saddam Hussein. She also confirmed that the first season of HBO Max® and Warner Bros. Television's breakout hit medical drama The Pitt will premiere on TNT in advance of the show's season two premiere on HBO Max®.

These are among the many popular series that will return for new seasons: Food Network's Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking, HGTV's Ugliest House in America, and Adult Swim's Rick and Morty and My Adventures with Superman.

Beyond television, Dungey highlighted the strong social footprint of the networks. She also underscored partnership opportunities with the Food Network Kitchen, at the HGTV Dream Home or HGTV Smart Home, at the TCM Film Festival, and with Adult Swim on the Green at San Diego Comic-Con.

Here are a few upcoming new series:
- Food Network
Guy's Flavortown Games (wt): Fresh off the season finale of Tournament of Champions, which delivered Food Network's highest-rated telecast in two years, Emmy® Award-winning host and restaurateur Guy Fieri brings his iconic Flavortown to life. In the new competition series Guy's Flavortown Games (wt), slated to premiere in early 2026 on Food Network and HBO Max®, two fearless chefs accept Guy's invitation to the epic restaurant row at the heart of Flavortown Square. Their goal: to prove they have the cooking cred to prepare a winning dish in any type of kitchen imaginable—from an awesome smashburger in the cramped food truck to a Michelin-worthy dinner in the state-of-the-art kitchen of a fine dining restaurant. The chef who makes the best dish in each round gets to choose their own culinary adventure by selecting the unique restaurant and cuisine they'll have to tackle next. In the town that Guy built, choosing the right restaurant can change your fortune.
Family Recipe Showdown: Going back to her Southern roots, Academy Award®-winning actress Octavia Spencer hosts a multi-generational home cooking competition that celebrates secret family recipes and traditions—where pride is on the line and the stakes are deeply personal as duos compete for a $10,000 prize. Set against the backdrop of New Orleans, Southern cooking royalty and expert judge Edgar "Dook" Chase is joined by guest judges and Octavia's celebrity friends, including Reese Witherspoon, Jessica Chastain, Danielle Brooks, Eric Stonestreet, Tina Knowles, Kandi Burrus, Tim Gunn, and Al Roker with his daughter Leila. Family Recipe Showdown will debut later in 2025 on Food Network and HBO Max®.
- Discovery
Dancing With Sharks (wt): Hosted by Emmy® Award-winning television personality Tom Bergeron, Dancing With Sharks (wt) is a new Shark Week 2025 special that features an unprecedented underwater dance competition between expert divers and their shark partners. Blending skill, grace and the daring pursuit of the ultimate underwater thrill, five divers—all trained by a world-class underwater choreographer—will compete to show off their skills during epic underwater dances. Each diver will attempt to outperform their competitors, with moves including the Hammerhead Hoedown and Tiger Trot, and redefine dancing with danger. They will have one shot to wow the judges and be crowned the first-ever champion of Dancing With Sharks (wt).
- HGTV
Renovating the Bachelor Mansion (wt): For more than 40 seasons, zealous fans have watched singletons find love within the iconic walls of the recurring Bachelor(ette) Mansion. Now, HGTV shines the light on this recognizable estate, giving the property the facelift it finally deserves. In the new competition twist from Warner Bros. Unscripted Television premiering in 2026 on HGTV and HBO Max®, former Bachelor and Bachelorette contestants who possess expert reno skills return to the house to duke it out in various design challenges with the hope of winning a cash prize.
-
CNN
Have I Got News for You S3: CNN has renewed "Have I Got News for You," the American version of the long-running British comedy series, hosted by Roy Wood Jr. with co-stars Michael Ian Black and Amber Ruffin. The cable channel is set to announce the show will be coming back for its third season as part of CNN's Upfront presentation in New York City on Wednesday. "Now that we know that none of us will be Pope, we proudly announce our return for Season 3 of 'Have I Got News for You' this fall," Wood Jr., Ruffin and Black joked in a joint statement shared with TheWrap.

But the big story... WBD has announced that Max, the company's streaming platform, is returning to its original name, HBO Max, after two years.

"This evolution has also been influenced by changing consumer needs, and the fact that no consumer today is saying they want more content, but most consumers are saying they want better content," Warners said in a presser. "With other services filling the more basic needs with volume, WBD has clearly distinguished itself through its quality and distinct stories, and no brand has done that better and more consistently over 50+ years than HBO. Returning the HBO brand into HBO Max will further drive the service forward and amplify the uniqueness that subscribers can expect from the offering. It is also a testament to WBD's willingness to keep boldly iterating its strategy and approach - leaning heavily on consumer data and insights - to best position itself for success."

Warner Bros. Discovery PR
People
The Futon Critic
TV Line
The Wrap
Deadline
Deadline
TV Line
The Wrap
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter

posted 5/14/2025


EndemolShine North America/CBS

Bigger Brother
Season 27 Bows July 10

From The Futon Critic

BIG BROTHER returns with its biggest season ever, airing the most original hours of programming in 25 years since its 2000 debut through extended 90-minute Wednesday episodes and the launch of BIG BROTHER: UNLOCKED on Friday nights throughout the season. The new season kicks off with a 90-minute premiere Thursday, July 10 (8:00-9:30 PM, ET/PT) followed by a 90-minute Sunday episode Sunday, July 13 (8:00-9:30 PM, ET/PT). Julie Chen Moonves returns as host. Paramount+ subscribers and Pluto TV viewers can continue to catch all the action on the BIG BROTHER Live Feeds.

In the 90-minute premiere of its 27th season, BIG BROTHER welcomes an all-new group of Houseguests into the BIG BROTHER House. Expect the unexpected with more hours than ever of BIG BROTHER this summer, and a season full of twists and turns. After its premiere, the series will air Wednesdays (8:00-9:30 PM, ET/delayed PT) expanded from its regular 60-minute episodes, followed by hour-long shows on Thursdays - featuring live evictions - and Sundays (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/delayed PT).

Then get ready for BIG BROTHER: UNLOCKED as three BB All-Stars offer never-before-seen broadcast footage from the house, exclusive interviews, surprise guest appearances and unprecedented behind-the-scenes access. Former Houseguests share firsthand insight and expertise as they analyze gameplay, assess the competition and give their insider's perspective every other Friday starting Friday, July 25 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT).

Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service, as well as on-demand. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live, but will have access to on-demand the day after the episode airs.

The Futon Critic
TV Line
The Wrap
Entertainment Weekly
Reality Blurred

posted 5/14/2025


LinkedIn
LUKE CONKLIN: c.1977-2025
Veteran Casting Producer
From Reality Blurred

Veteran casting producer Luke Conklin, whose credits date back to 2002's "Dog Eat Dog" for NBC, died Monday at the age of around 47 or 48.

Conklin's brother announced his death on Facebook, writing...

"It is with a heavy heart that I share with you that my brother Luke passed away today from cancer. When we first learned of his illness, we knew that his passing would be a possible outcome. Out of respect for his needs, we kept his condition private. I am grateful for the conversations we were able to have during these final moments with him. Know that he is at peace with his Savior, and we are drawing comfort in the arms of Jesus."

Conklin was the head of casting for such productions as 2018's Match Game, 2017's Beat Shazam, and 2013's Food Fighters. He also worked as a producer on Let's Ask America. He was working as a supervising casting producer of Wheel of Fortune at the time of his death.

Our friends at Reality Blurred also list among his credits The Bachelor, The BAchelorette, Flavor of Love, Beauty and the Geek, Are You Hot?, 1 vs. 100, and Minute to Win It.

Those he worked with posted public tributes to him on social media. Casting director Erin Tomasello wrote...

"I'm heartbroken over the loss of Luke Conklin. I had the honor of working alongside him—and like so many of us in the casting world who came up in this business together, I respected him deeply. Luke was sharp, driven, and unwavering in his standards. He expected the best and brought out the best in the people around him. The casting community is mourning this loss together. Luke left a mark on this industry and on all of us who had the privilege to know and work with him."

Casting director Ali Kaz wrote...

"Some might call us competitors.. but it never felt like that. We are a close community and more importantly friends. Luke Conklin we love you and will keep things going in your honor. Well respected – loved – adored – and most dedicated to his family, his colleagues, sports and craft. We started our journey together.. and you certainly paved your own path forward. Gone too soon my friend."

Casting director Stephanie Lewis wrote...

"The world lost an amazing human today. An incredibly proud father and family man, a competitor to the core, and one of the greatest in the casting world. I spent 12 years working with Luke, and we worked well together – so well that I can't even count how many shows we actually did together. We inherently trusted and respected each other from the beginning. I will miss his advice, his humor, and his enthusiasm for always putting 100% into everything he did. Beyond being a boss and mentor though, he was a friend. Someone I could call at the drop of a hat and he would answer. I will miss him, and will never forget all the amazing times we shared. Thank you Luke for everything."

Reality Blurred
Staff Me Up

posted 5/14/2025

Playtime In Danger
Cancelled Grants Leave Home of Game Show Archives in $500K Shortfall
From WHEC Rochester

The Strong National Museum of Play has learned two of its federal grants have been terminated and it's hoping private donors will step up to fill the gap.

A promised $400,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities intended to help build a new exhibit exploring the history and cultural impact of gameshows, has been cut. "In that exhibit we're going to feature artifacts from game shows throughout history, we are the home of the national archive of game show history so, we're talking about set pieces from iconic shows like the Price is Right, Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, Let's Make a Deal," explains Lisa Feinstein, the Vice President for Strategic Partnerships at the Strong Museum of Play.

A roughly $100,000 grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services has also been cancelled. That grant was set to catalog and preserve some of the other collections at the museum. "We feel that these are pivotal, critical programs and they are not all extras, these are things that our community needs and not just museums but libraries so, we would say if the government needs to tighten the purse strings, these aren't the programs that need to go," Feinstein says.

The Strong reached out to its members and donors by email earlier this week to let folks know about the federal cuts and ask them to open their wallets to help make up for it. "The gifts that we've seen, the donations that we've seen in response to this email have come from all over the country and that says a lot about the Strong and its value as a community cornerstone," Feinstein says.

WHEC Rochester

posted 5/14/2025

Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Now Hiring"


posted 5/14/2025


ABC

UPFRONTS: ABC
Wheel, Dancing, Shark Tank Make Moves

From Deadline

ABC announced its fall 2025 primetime schedule today following a highly successful season as the No. 1 multiplatform network.

In the first full broadcast season where Nielsen reported on competitive multiplatform ratings, the network outperformed its competition dominating cross-platform rankings and earning all top 5 programs in the 2024/2025 broadcast season across Adults 18-49: "High Potential" (No. 1), "Abbott Elementary" (No. 2), "The Rookie" (No. 3), "9-1-1" (No. 4) and "Shifting Gears" (No. 5). The network also boasts nine of the top 20 programs in the demo across platforms adding "Will Trent" (No. 10), "Grey's Anatomy" (No. 11), "Dancing with the Stars" (No. 14) and "The Bachelor" (No. 17).*

"ABC dominated this season in multiplatform ratings, which are the most relevant metrics that reflect how audiences are consuming television today," said Craig Erwich, president, Disney Television Group. "We are meeting viewers where they are, and this achievement really highlights our strategic approach and commitment to creative excellence. Looking ahead, we're all about maintaining stability, delivering quality, and driving innovation, with new shows and returning favorites from some of the industry's top creators and biggest stars."

ABC will air ESPN's "Monday Night Football" on most Monday nights. A detailed schedule will be announced later this week.

After a record-breaking season where it ranked as the No. 1 entertainment series in Adults 18-49 in Live+Same Day ratings for the first time in its history, "Dancing with the Stars" returns to the ballroom on Tuesdays followed by the sophomore season of the No. 1 broadcast series of 2025, "High Potential." The drama was ABC's most-watched new series in seven years and was the most-streamed broadcast series of the season, more than doubling its nearest competition in both the key 18-49 demo and Total Viewers.

The No. 1 comedy of the season, Emmy(R) and Golden Globe(R) Award-winning "Abbott Elementary," will return Wednesdays, joined by season two of the No. 1 new comedy this season, "Shifting Gears." After its inaugural run in 2023, which was ABC's highest-rated unscripted series in five years, an all-new season of "The Golden Bachelor" follows, starring Mel Owens, a former NFL veteran-turned-lawyer. Season 17 of "Shark Tank" will round out the evening lineup on its new night and time with exciting guest Sharks featured throughout the season.

"9-1-1: Nashville," the highly anticipated spinoff series from Ryan Murphy starring Chris O'Donnell, debuts Thursdays following the return of hit drama series "9-1-1." The longest-running primetime medical drama in television history, "Grey's Anatomy," completes the evening.

Ryan Seacrest will make his "Celebrity Wheel of Fortune" debut Friday nights, hosting the all-new season alongside the legendary Vanna White. Friday's most-watched newsmagazine, ABC News' "20/20," will follow.

"America's Funniest Home Videos" will lead Sunday nights joined by popular films under "The Wonderful World of Disney" umbrella, including the broadcast premieres of "Avatar: The Way of Water," "Elemental," "Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol 3" and "Wakanda Forever."

New seasons of previously announced returning series "American Idol," "Celebrity Jeopardy!," "The Rookie" and "Will Trent" will debut in 2026. Fall premiere dates will be announced at a later date, as well as additional midseason announcements and renewals. All episodes will be available to stream next day on Hulu.

THE SCHEDULE...

MONDAY
- 8p: ESPN Monday Night Football (simulcast on ESPN/ESPN2/ESPN+)

TUESDAY
- 8p: Dancing with the Stars (simulcast on Disney+)
- 10p: High Potential

WEDNESDAY
- 8p: Shifting Gears
- 8:30p: Abbott Elementary
- 9p: The Golden Bachelor
- 10p: Shark Tank

THURSDAY
- 8p: 9-1-1
- 9p: 9-1-1 NASHVILLE
- 10p: Grey's Anatomy

FRIDAY
- 8p: Celebrity Wheel of Fortune
- 9p: 20/20

SATURDAY
- 8p: ESPN Saturday Night Football

SUNDAY
- 7p: America's Funniest Home Videos
- 8p: The Wonderful World of Disney

“The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette” have yet to be renewed, with news of “The Bachelorette” skipping summer 2025 having come earlier this year.

"The Bachelor is no different than any other show," says Disney Television Group president Craig Erwich. "You have to have the exact right casting. You have to have the exact right people. We're taking tremendous care with a very singular and beloved franchise, and we'll continue to roll those out as they're ready."

Variety
Deadline
Deadline
The Wrap
The Hollywood Reporter
The Sun
Just Jared
The Futon Critic
Deadline
The Wrap
Variety

The Hollywood Reporter

The Wrap

TV Insider

TV Insider

posted 5/13/2025


Amazon

UPFRONTS: Prime Video
"American Gladiators" Joins "Beast Games"

From The Futon Critic

MGM Alternative announced that WWE Superstar Mike "The Miz" Mizanin will join as host of the action-packed U.S. reboot of the iconic competition series American Gladiators for Prime Video. The announcement was made today ahead of the annual Amazon upfront presentation. Originating as a weekly U.S. syndicated show, American Gladiators burst onto screens in 1989 and quickly became the #1 watched sports entertainment show in the world. The show returns with an exciting new take, and an All Star cast of Gladiators for the modern era. The competition will feature brand new events, as well incorporate some classics from the original series like "Gauntlet," "Hang Tough," and "The Eliminator." Original seasons of the series are available to stream on newly launched American Gladiators' FAST Channel on Prime Video FAST.

Mike "The Miz" Mizanin is a WWE Superstar, actor, and television personality. He launched onto television as part of MTV's The Real World: Back to New York. He is a two-time Grand Slam Champion and a fan-favorite both in and out of the ring. Beyond WWE, additional television credits include reality hits like Miz & Mrs. and competition shows such as Dancing with the Stars.

The featured Gladiators on the upcoming series will range from professional bodybuilders, former D1 athletes, pro crossfit champions and pro fitness trainers from around the globe all ecstatic to put their abilities to the test. This follows the massive success of the British version of American Gladiators revival for BBC in 2024, which became the #1 new entertainment series in the country in the past seven years. A second season and spin-off series called EPIC Pranks also scored high ratings.

Meanwhile, following the show's record-breaking debut, Prime Video has renewed Beast Games, created and hosted by YouTube phenomenon MrBeast (aka Jimmy Donaldson), for two additional seasons. The series was co-created and hosted by MrBeast, also known as Jimmy Donaldson, featuring the biggest reality competition series ever, with 1,000 players competing for a $10 million cash prize in Season 1. Beast Games' debut season premiered on December 19, 2024, exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide. Just 25 days after its premiere, Beast Games quickly became Prime Video's most-watched unscripted show ever, amassing 50 million viewers. The announcement was made today during the annual Amazon upfront presentation in New York.

"MrBeast achieved a significant milestone for our global Prime Video customers, bringing to life the largest reality competition series ever," said Vernon Sanders, head of television, Amazon MGM Studios. "Following its record-breaking first season, we are thrilled to announce that two more seasons of Beast Games are on the way, and we eagerly anticipate all of the new, jaw-dropping challenges MrBeast has planned for the players." "Our goal was to deliver the biggest, boldest competition series ever created, and the response has exceeded every expectation," said Jeff Housenbold, CEO of MrBeast Industries. "Beast Games resonated with fans around the world, and that's a testament to the creativity of Jimmy and the entire Beast team. We're grateful to Amazon for their continued partnership, and we're excited to raise the bar even higher in the next two seasons."

Sean Klitzner, Tyler Conklin, and Mack Hopkins also serve as co-creators. Sean Klitzner and Matt Apps serve as showrunners, as well as executive producers alongside Michael Cruz, Jeff Housenbold, Tyler Conklin, Michael Miller, Josh Kulic, and Chris Keiper. Tyler Conklin is returning as the Series Director..

The Futon Critic
The Futon Critic
Deadline
Deadline
The Wrap
The Wrap
Variety
Variety
Variety
TV Insider
TV Zone

PopCulture

posted 5/13/2025

Order Up
Comedy Central UK Renews "Out of Order"
From TV Zone

Out Of Order, the comedy entertainment gameshow, is set to return for a third run on Comedy Central later this year, under new production company Bango Studios, TV Zone reports. Filming is due to commence in July.

Hosted by Rosie Jones, Out of Order is a cheeky, riotous comedy gameshow that aims to prove who's the best at judging people. Are you always judging strangers on trains? Scolded by your friends for guessing how much people earn from what they wear? Well polish that judgey eye as Out of Order is the show for you.

In a number of comical rounds, teams will judge 'Rosie's Regulars', a group of extraordinary, unapologetic and loveable members of the great British public, based on revealing categories like 'Who sends the most messages to their mum?', 'Who's had the most one-night stands?' and 'Who's ghosted the most people?'; putting them in order from least to most.

In a twist, the final round will see the roles reversed as one of Rosie's Regulars judges Rosie and the celebrity teams to hopefully win a cash prize. Will they get it right? Or will they be Out of Order?

Out of Order is now a Bango Studios production and returns later this year on Comedy Central.

TV Zone

posted 5/13/2025

More on "Celebrity Traitors UK"
Line Up Announced
From Good Housekeeping

Faithfuls and traitors, listen up - a celebrity version of The Traitors is coming and we couldn't be more excited about all the details we know so far, including who is in the official final line up.

After the rumor mill went wild with speculation, the BBC officially confirmed a celebrity version of the multi-award-winning psychological game show had been commissioned, with a working title of Celebrity Traitors. The biggest questions people had since the announcement were all around who's going to be on the show.

Until now, however, we'd only heard about who won't be joining the castle including ITV's Lorraine Kelly who turned down a slot due to schedule conflicts with the filming timetable, according to The Independent.

Just like the original smash hit series, the celeb spin off will be hosted by the inimitable Claudia Winkleman, and will surely make for unmissable TV.

The full list of contestants for the the celebrity version of the show has now been announced, according to multiple news websites, following intense speculation. Some stars which were rumored to be taking part - like Tom Daly and Alan Carr - have now been confirmed, while other names were a surprise inclusion. The full cast list includes:
- Game show host Stephen Fry (Jeopardy! UK)
- Olympian Tom Daley (Diving)
- Broadcast journalist Kate Garraway (Good Morning Britain)
- Sports presenter Clare Balding (ITV Sport)
- Celia Imrie (The Diplomat)
- TV host Jonathan Ross (The Masked Singer UK)
- Singer Paloma Faith
- Comedian Alan Carr (RuPaul's Drag Race UK)
- Actress Tameka Empson (EastEnders)
- Rugby star Joe Marler
- Comedian Bob Mortimer (LOL: Last One Laughing UK)
- Actor Nick Mohammed (Ted Lasso)
- Singer Charlotte Church
-
Historian David Olusoga
- Actor Mark Bonnar (Line of Duty)
- Comedian Lucy Beaumont
- Singer Cat Burns
- Actor Ruth Codd (Fall of the House of Usher)
- Comedian Joe Wilkinson (8 out of 10 Cats)
- YouTuber Niko Omilana

The participants will be seen competing for up to £100,000 for a charity of their choice.

It is the first celebrity version of the show, and will consist of nine hour-long episodes. The latest regular series was broadcast in January, attracting more than 10 million viewers per episode.

Although no official air date has been announced yet, filming is due to start in the coming months, with a release date expected in the second half of 2025.

Good Housekeeping
The Sun
Reality Tea
98fm
The BBC
LADBible

Deadline

posted 5/12/2025

Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "The Roast of Mark Cuban"

  • FIRST LOOK: Mark Cuban takes his final bow May 16 (TV Insider)

  • Juliana Pasquarosa addresses split rumors... saying they're just that... RUMORS (Swooon)

  • Vanna White is an HGTV fangirl... .yeah, now we see it. (TV Insider)

  • Ken Jennings brings trivia to convenience store trade show (CSP)


posted 5/13/2025


Fox

UPFRONTS: Fox
"Fear Factor", "Weakest Link" Move from NBC

From The Futon Critic

FOX today unveils its content slate for the 2025-2026 television season to the national advertising community during its in-person Upfront Presentation at the Manhattan Center. FOX ranked #1 this season among the coveted Adults 18-49 and is the only network among the 4-Nets up year-over-year in the demo. The network is adding six new series to its schedule, including a new one-hour comedy, a new dramatic thriller, an epic new scripted event series and three new unscripted competition series, as well as the return of an Animation Domination favorite. Spanning scripted, unscripted and animation, the media company continues to increase program ownership from in-house business units under the FOX Entertainment Studios banner.

"Building on our winning position in both key demos and co-viewing this season, FOX delivers a 2025-26 schedule that's filled with irreverence, fun and much-needed laughter," said FOX Entertainment CEO Rob Wade. "Next year more than ever, we're bringing that promise to life with a terrific slate to delight our audiences across linear, Hulu and beyond."

Returning FOX series include dramas Doc (Season Two), and Murder in a Small Town (Season Two); comedies Animal Control (Season Four) and Going Dutch (Season Two); animated series Bob's Burgers (Season 16), Family Guy (Season 24), Grimsburg (Season Three), Krapopolis (Season Three), Universal Basic Guys (Season Two) and The Simpsons (Season 37); and unscripted series Beat Shazam (Season Eight), Don't Forget The Lyrics! (Season Four), Extracted (Season Two), The Floor (Season Four), Hell's Kitchen (Season 24), Kitchen Nightmares (Season Three), LEGO Masters (Season Six), The Masked Singer (Season 14), Name That Tune (Season Five) Next Level Chef (Season Five) and Special Forces: World's Toughest Test (Season Four). Additional series renewals to be announced.

All-new drama Memory of a Killer and brand-new event series The Faithful join returning hit dramas Doc and Murder in a Small Town.

All-new one-hour comedy Best Medicine joins half-hour comedies Going Dutch, starring Denis Leary and Animal Control, starring Joel McHale.

Animated comedies Bob's Burgers, Family Guy, Grimsburg, Krapopolis, Universal Basic Guys and The Simpsons return. Plus, Seth MacFarlane's American Dad! comes back to FOX with all-new episodes in 2026.

All-new unscripted series 99 To Beat and Gordon Ramsay's four-hour event series, Next Level Baker, join returning unscripted favorites Beat Shazam, Don't Forget The Lyrics!, Extracted, The Floor, Hell's Kitchen, Kitchen Nightmares, LEGO Masters, The Masked Singer, Name That Tune, Next Level Chef and Special Forces: World's Toughest Test. Additionally, reinventions of hugely popular fan-favorites The Weakest Link and Fear Factor make their debuts on FOX.

NEW IN 2025-2026
- In 99 TO BEAT, hosted by Ken Jeong and Erin Andrews, 100 contestants go head-to-head in a range of visually distinctive and hilarious games in an arced competition game show like we've never seen before. 99 to Beat is the game show that anyone can win, and there's only one thing players must do for a chance of walking away with the cash prize - Don't. Come. In. Last. As contestants battle it out against each other, each round will see the number of players whittled down until one person is left standing and they take home the top prize of $100,000. 99 to Beat is produced by Initial, with Natalka Znak, Claire O'Donohoe, Katy Manley and Lee Smithurst executive producing. The series is based on a format originated by VRT and De Chinezen, and is distributed by Primitives.
- The hit Emmy Award-nominated WEAKEST LINK, hosted by Jane Lynch, returns for a new season with an all-celebrity edition - but for the first time in broadcast history, on FOX! A rapid-fire quiz show in which eight celebrities compete to win up to one million dollars for the charity of their choosing, these celebs will answer general knowledge questions and bank money as a group across multiple rounds. At the end of each round, the contestants vote out who they perceive to be the weakest link, and the host sends them off with the phrase, "You are the Weakest Link. Goodbye." The two who make it to the final round will battle it out to determine who wins the banked money for their charity. The classic Weakest Link format distributed by BBC Studios, has been produced in more than 45 territories around the world over the past two decades. Since its original run in 2001, "Weakest Link" has been the fastest and fiercest quiz show on television, earning a place in pop culture history. Celebrity Weakest Link is executive-produced by Ryan O'Dowd and Krystal Whitney for BBC Studios Los Angeles Productions. Stuart Krasnow serves as the showrunner.
- The iconic reality competition FEAR FACTOR is coming back bigger, bolder and more daring. Dropped into an unforgiving, remote location, a group of strangers will live together under one roof, and face mind-blowing stunts, harrowing challenges and a twisted game of social strategy where trust is fleeting - and fear is a weapon. This is Fear Factor: The Next Chapter (WT). Fear Factor: The Next Chapter (WT) is produced by Endemol Shine North America. Kevin Lee will serve as executive producer, along with Endemol Shine North America's Sharon Levy, Michael Heyerman and Sean Loughlin. The reimagined series is based on the original format, Fear Factor, created by Endemol Shine Netherlands. Fear Factor is internationally renowned with 32 adaptations.
- A holiday special, and Next Level Chef's first franchise extension, NEXT LEVEL BAKER will test the skills of bakers as they are challenged to create eye-popping, festive holiday delights across the franchise's three iconic levels. During the new series' four special hours - in which culinary titan Gordon Ramsay will serve as host and mentor -- only one baker will rise to the top and claim the holiday baking crown. Next Level Baker will be produced by BiggerStage and Studio Ramsay, on behalf of Studio Ramsay Global. Gordon Ramsay and Matt Cahoon are executive producers.

Also, as previously announced, FOX heats up the summer with all-new episodes/seasons of LEGO Masters (May 19), MasterChef (May 21), Bob's Burgers (May 29), Grimsburg (May 29), Family Guy (May 29), The Great North (May 29), The Quiz with Balls (June 2) and The 1% Club (June 10), as well as the series launches of Gordon Ramsay's Secret Service (May 21) and The Snake (June 10). Additional summer programming to be announced.

THE SCHEDULE...

MONDAY
- 8p: Name That Tune
- 9p: CELEBRITY WEAKEST LINK


TUESDAY
- 8p: Murder in a Small Town
- 9p: Doc

WEDNESDAY
- 8p: The Floor
- 9p: 99 TO BEAT


THURSDAY
- 8p: Hell's Kitchen
- 9p: Special Forces: World's Toughest Test


FRIDAY
- 8p: Fox College Football Friday

SATURDAY
- 7p: Fox Sports Saturday

SUNDAY
- 7p: NFL on Fox
- 7:30p: The OT/Fox Animation Encores
- 8p: The Simpsons
- 8:30p: Universal Basic Guys
- 9p: Krapopolis
- 9:30p: Bob's Burgers

As previously reported, The Masked Singer will bow its 14th season in January, while dates for Beat Shazam, Don't Forget the Lyrics!, LEGO Masters, Extracted, and Next Level Chef will be announced in due course.

The Futon Critic
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
Deadline
The Wrap
TV Line
TV Line
Variety
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
TV Insider
TV Insider
Forbes

posted 5/12/2025


NBCUniversal

UPFRONTS: NBC
"The Voice" Benched for NBA

From The Futon Critic

The NBA era on NBC is officially starting this fall, and we are getting a taste of what the network schedule will look like with professional basketball taking over its primetime, only announcing its fall schedule for the first six weeks of the season, through October, with some guidance on its November schedule plans.

The October schedule features less than a third (31.8%) scripted programming — which could be the lowest ever for NBC — and one new series, the unscripted On Brand with Jimmy Fallon.

"NBA is a huge priority for us, that is our biggest new show in the fall," Jeff Bader, President, Program Planning Strategy, NBCUniversal Entertainment, said during a pre-upfront press call Saturday.

Not surprisingly, the entire NBC schedule is tailored around it, and there was a lot of tailoring to be done.

"There's a three-part rollout to the fall schedule, given the NBA comes on in the middle of October," Steven Kern, SVP, Program Planning & Scheduling, NBCUniversal Entertainment, said on the same call.

Here are the versions of the NBC schedule for the first two parts of the rollout in September and October, followed by analysis and information about Part 3 as well as details about the three (for now) official new 2025-26 series, On Brand, comedy The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins, starring Tracy Morgan and executive produced by Tina Fey, and prehistoric nature docuseries Surviving Earth, which follows in the footsteps of this season's The Americas.

THE SCHEDULE...

MONDAY (SEPTEMBER)
- 8p: The Voice
- 10p: Brilliant Minds

MONDAY (NOVEMBER)
- 8p: St. Denis Medical
- 8:30p: Comedy TBA
- 9p: The Voice
- 10p: Brilliant Minds

TUESDAY (SEPTEMBER)
- 8p: The Voice

- 10p: ON BRAND WITH JIMMY FALLON

TUESDAY (OCTOBER)
- 8p: NBA ON NBC

WEDNESDAY
- 8p: Chicago Med
- 9p: Chicago Fire
- 10p: Chicago PD

THURSDAY
- 8p: Law & Order
- 9p: Law & Order: SVU
- 10p: The Hunting Party

FRIDAY (SEPTEMBER)
- 8p: ON BRAND WITH JIMMY FALLON
- 9p: Dateline NBC

FRIDAY (NOVEMBER)
- 8p: Happy's Place
- 8:30p: Comedy TBA
- 9p: Dateline NBC

SATURDAY
- 7p: Big Ten Pregame/Notre Dame Pregame
- 7:30p: Big Ten Saturday Night/Notre Dame Football

SUNDAY (FALL/WINTER)
- 7p: Football Night in America
- 8:20p: Sunday Night Football

SUNDAY (SPRING)
- 8p: SUNDAY NIGHT BASKETBALL

NEW IN 2025-2026
- ON BRAND WITH JIMMY FALLON: An innovative unscripted series that follows what happens when Jimmy Fallon starts a premier marketing agency and fills it with the most creative, clever and competitive go-getters he can find. Fallon recruited Bozoma Saint John as the On Brand Agency's Chief Marketing Officer, where she will mentor the creatives and evaluate their work. In each episode, the On Brand Agency creatives will work with a major brand in need of a big idea for a massive, high-priority campaign – from creating earworm jingles and unbelievable activations to producing the most quotable commercials and must-have merchandise. They will have unprecedented access to the client's businesses before pitching their vision to a brand representative, along with Saint John and Fallon, with only the best ideas moving on to proof of concept and the opportunity to see their campaign brought to life on the national stage after each episode. The "On Brand" format will be licensed globally by NBCUniversal Formats, a division of Universal Studio Group. "On Brand with Jimmy Fallon" is produced by B17 Entertainment and Universal Television Alternative Studio, a division of Universal Studio Group, in association with Electric Hot Dog. Executive producers are Jimmy Fallon, Brien Meagher, Rhett Bachner, Pip Wells and Kelly Powers. CAA's Media & Entertainment Partnerships division serves as a collaborative business partner with NBCUniversal to bring leading brands to the show.

Peacock announced new series greenlights including a third season of "House of Villains," hosted by Joel McHale, along with true crime documentaries "Gilgo Beach Killer: The House of Secrets" and "The Idaho Student Murders" as well as "Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks" docuseries.

These series accompany new seasons of breakout hits "Love Island USA" (June 3) and "Love Island Games" (late 2025); new series "Love Island: Beyond The Villa" (summer 2025) and hit reality sensation "Married At First Sight" debuts on the platform with season 19 later this year.

Additionally, a new season of the Emmy Award-winning "The Traitors" is set to air early next year.

Love Island USA has proven to be a massive hit on Peacock. Last summer, season 6 of the series was the #1 reality series across all streaming platforms and, in advance of the series' return this summer, Peacock announced Love Island: Beyond the Villa, a new spinoff following the beloved cast of season 6 outside of the villa.

Following its Emmy Award-winning second season, season 3 of The Traitors debuted as the most-watched unscripted series in the U.S. during premiere week and grew viewership from the season 2 premiere by 67%.

Deadline
TV Line
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
TV Insider
TV Insider
The Futon Critic

posted 5/12/2025


Versant/Comcast

UPFRONTS: Versant
First Presentation for Comcast's Spinoff

From the Hollywood Reporter

It is Versant's turn to spin(co.) you.

The portfolio of misfit NBCU cable channels announced its first programming slate since being announced as SpinCo. and refined into Versant. The 2025-26 TV season will feature "bold originals, blockbuster sports and iconic live events," the Versant publicity team said Monday in a press release.

E! alone announced five new unscripted series at the NBC upfront, Syfy and USA Network each unveiled one new scripted series, and Oxygen's got a killer pair of freshman shows. Wait, let us rephrase that last bit: Oxygen has two freshman shows about killers. TBD on how good they are.

All told, Versant pitched 16 new originals to a ballroom full of advertisers at Radio City Music Hall.

"Our audiences are among the most devoted in the industry, and their passion fuels everything we do," said Val Boreland, president of entertainment for Versant. "By uniting the power of our iconic brands with a commitment to bold, original storytelling, we're deepening our connection with viewers in meaningful ways. We're proud to unveil this exciting new programming slate as we move forward under our new name."

NEW FOR 2025-2026...
-
E! Dirty Rotten Scandals: America's Next Top Model — Premieres spring 2026: For the first time ever, E! Dirty Rotten Scandals: America's Next Top Model unveils the dark underbelly of the long-running TV series through the untold stories of former contestants — where a golden opportunity for aspiring models unravels into a harrowing saga of exploitation, resilience and shattered dreams. E! Dirty Rotten Scandals: America's Next Top Model is produced by Glass Media. Nancy Glass and Sarah Gibson serve as executive producers.
- E! Dirty Rotten Scandals: The Price Is Right — Premieres spring 2026 E! Dirty Rotten Scandals: The Price Is Right is a documentary series exploring shocking allegations surrounding Bob Barker, while hosting the hit game show. Based on award-winning journalist David Kushner's new original reporting, the series will feature the voices of original "Barker's Beauties" and other former TPIR cast and crew who are coming together for the first time to tell their stories. E! Dirty Rotten Scandals: The Price Is Right is produced by Terminal B Television with Tom Forman, David Metzler, Meredith Wright, and Jordan Rosenblum serving as executive producers alongside David Kushner.

Series premiere dates will be announced at a later time.

The Hollywood Reporter
Variety
The Wrap

posted 5/12/2025


CBS

CBS Rules Over Daytime
Network #1 for 39 Seasons, 1500 Weeks Running

From the Futon Critic

CBS has been the most-watched daytime network for an impressive 39 consecutive seasons and has won every week during that time except for one. This marks the longest daytime winning streak for any network since reporting began. CBS Daytime rating highlights: · #1 for 39 seasons, since 1986-87 season.

CBS' weekly winning streak started on Oct. 3, 1988 (Ronald Reagan was president and floppy discs were still a thing), and the "weekly consecutive streak" was only interrupted from July 22-29, 1996, during the Summer Olympics held in Atlanta and broadcast on NBC. Since then, the network has maintained the #1 spot for the 1,500 consecutive weeks - approximately 28 years and eight months.

CBS is home to the top three daytime shows - #1 THE PRICE IS RIGHT, #2 THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS and #3 THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL and the daytime audience averages 2.76m viewers (Most Current, Season-to-Date).

For 13 consecutive seasons (since 2012-13), these shows have ranked as the top daytime programs for 571 of 615 weeks.

THE PRICE IS RIGHT has been the #1 daytime program in 691 of the last 701 consecutive weeks and this season averages 3.95m viewers (Most Current, Season-to-Date).

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS has been the #1 daytime soap for more than 36 years and 1,878 consecutive weeks and this season averages 3.29m viewers (Most Current, Season-to-Date).

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL this season averages 2.79m viewers (Most Current, Season-to-Date).

LET'S MAKE A DEAL this season averages 2.21m viewers (Most Current, Season-to-Date).

BEYOND THE GATES, the newest addition to the winning CBS Daytime lineup, is up +48% in broadcast viewership from last year's time period and this season averages 1.82m viewers (Most Current, Season-to-Date).

Streaming viewership of every CBS soap is up year-over-year and streaming gains result in double digit lifts over the broadcast-only audience.

The Futon Critic
Deadline

posted 5/12/2025

"The Voice" Lines Up Season 28
Niall Horan, Reba McEntire, Michael Bublé Join Snoop
From Deadline

The Voice is returning to NBC in the fall but it will look a little different both in terms of coaches and timeslot. The music competition series is bringing back Snoop Dogg, Niall Horan and Reba McEntire as coaches with Adam Levine, John Legend and Kelsea Ballerini making way for the next installment of the show.

The trio will join Michael Bublé, who has featured on Seasons 26 and 27. Snoop Dogg was a coach in Season 26 with McEntire previously doing a three season run between Seasons 24 and 26. One Direction star Horan previously served as a coach in Seasons 23 and 24.

The Voice rotates its coaches to keep the reality TV competition hosted by Carson Daly fresh, airing twice a year.

The musical chairs come as The Voice will have a slightly different pattern in terms of scheduling for its fall season. Snoop Dogg Snoop Dogg Trae Patton/NBC The show will launch with two hours on Mondays and Tuesdays in September but will then go down to one night per week as a result of NBC picking up the NBA. The first Tuesday of the fall season is the finale of America's Got Talent. Then, there will be three weeks of The Voice on Tuesday nights before the NBA kicks in and then it will only air on Monday nights.

It will start as a two-hour show on Monday nights but reduce down to one-hour when NBC decides to premiere its comedies, including St. Denis Medical at 8pm with either The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins, starring Tracy Morgan and Daniel Radcliffe, and one of its comedy pilots, including Stumble and an untitled community center show from Sierra Teller Ornelas. It will likely be six weeks of two hours on Mondays before moving to one hour.

However, as a result of an NBA schedule that isn't completely set, there may be some episodes of The Voice on Tuesdays in December.

The Voice is produced by MGM Television, Warner Bros Unscripted Television in association with Warner Horizon, and ITV Studios, with Morrissey serving as showrunner and EP alongside Mark Burnett, Amanda Zucker, Kyra Thompson, Adam H. Sher and Barry Poznick.

Deadline
Reality TV World

posted 5/12/2025

Third Round for "Wheel of Fortune UK"
Graham Norton to Return as Host
From TV Zone

Iconic gameshow Wheel of Fortune with Graham Norton is set to spin back for a third series on ITV1, TV Zone reports. ITV are yet to formally announced a third series.

Production company Whisper North are crewing for a primetime studio gameshow involving word puzzles to film this September in MediaCity in Salford.

TV Zone reports this is a third series of primetime ITV gameshow Wheel Of Fortune, which will once again be hosted by Graham Norton.

In each episode, three new players must spin the wheel and solve the puzzles to be in with a chance of winning a possible £50,000.

The epic game show will once again be centred around a giant carnival wheel as the contestants spin to win for a life changing cash prize. The pressure is on as they pick a letter to solve the puzzle, but who has what it takes in this thrilling game of skill and luck.

Wheel Of Fortune returned to screens in January 2024 and became ITV's biggest entertainment launch since 2022 with 5.7 million tuning in for its first episode. Across the first series, it was streamed 3 million times and reached over 16 million people.

TV Zone

posted 5/12/2025


IMDb
DENISE ALEXANDER: 1939-2025
"General Hospital" Alum Played Games
From TV Line

Soap veteran Denise Alexander, who played Laura's mother Lesley on General Hospital along with a lengthy stint on Days of Our Lives, has passed away at the age of 85, according to Soap Opera Digest.

Alexander first gained fame when she joined the cast of NBC's Days of Our Lives in 1966 as Susan Martin. (She also married her Days co-star Richard Colla, with the two remaining together until Colla's death in 2021.)

Alexander stayed on Days until 1973, when she shocked the soap world by hopping over to ABC's General Hospital. There, she played Lesley Webber, mother to Genie Francis' Laura. Alexander's Lesley was the driving force behind many of GH's major plotlines in the 1970s, and Alexander earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for best actress in a daytime drama in 1976. Lesley was killed off in a car crash in 1984, and Alexander took a role on the NBC soap Another World, but she returned to GH as Lesley in 1996, mysteriously resurrected.

She continued on General Hospital off and on until 2009, popping back in for special episodes every few years after that. Her last appearance on the show was in 2021.

Francis credits Alexander with helping her develop as an actor, she tells TV Insider: "I loved her. She loved me. I stole her good stuff. When I look at myself sometimes on television… I have been kind of taken aback because I realized I just did Denise… I was so young, she imprinted on me. And some of my style of acting was directly imprinted on me by Denise Alexander. And she was very, very good to me as I was growing up."

In game shows, Alexander was featured on episodes of The Hollywood Squares and Family Feud.

TV Line
The Wrap
The Hollywood Reporter

posted 5/12/2025

Monday Lightning Round
... or "The Big Finish"

  • Blake Shelton, Kelly Clarkson, Chance the Rapper return for "The Voice" season 28 finale (The Futon Critic)

  • Fox introduces Fox One, its new streaming platform (The Futon Critic)

  • Gordon Ramsay to produce Apple TV+ series about chefs chasing Michelin stars (Deadline)

  • Buzzy Cohen returns to Jeopardy! as a writer (TV Insider)

  • Sharna Burgess' wedding to Brian Austin Green is "on hold" (Reality TV World)

  • Kelsey Anderson's wedding to Joey Graziadei is "on hold" (Sports Illustrated Swimsuit)

posted 5/12/2025


MTV/Paramount Global

More on "Drag Race All-STars 10"
Tournament of All-STars Plays Out on Paramount+ May 9

From the Hollywood Reporter

Paramount+ today announced the gag-worthy lineup of celebrity guest judges who will join Emmy(R) Award-winning host RuPaul and mainstay judges Michelle Visage, Carson Kressley, Ross Mathews, TS Madison and recurring judge Law Roach for the 10th season of RUPAUL'S DRAG RACE ALL STARS. The network also released the jaw-dropping trailer for the upcoming season, featuring Grammy(R)-nominated rapper Ice Spice as the premiere guest judge. The series is streaming exclusively on Paramount+ with two all-new episodes on Friday, May 9.

The star-studded lineup of guest judges includes Ice Spice, Chappell Roan, Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Colman Domingo, Kate Beckinsale, Susanne Bartsch, Adam Shankman, Jamal Sims, Mayan Lopez, Devery Jacobs and Sarah Michelle Gellar.

All Stars Season 10 will see a slew of performers from RuPaul’s Drag Race past return for another shot at the crown, including a few queens who have already competed on All Stars in previous years and one contestant from season 17. Those battling it out for a shot at $200,000 and a spot in the Drag Race Hall of Fame include Acid Betty (season 8), Aja (season 9, All Stars 3), Alyssa Hunter (season 14), Bosco (season 14), Cynthia Lee Fontaine (season 8 and 9), Daya Betty (season 14), Deja Skye (season 14), Denali (season 13), Ginger Minj (season 7, All Stars 2 and 6), Irene the Alien (season 15), Jorgeous (season 14 and All Stars 9), Kerri Colby (season 14), Lydia B. Kollins (season 17), Mistress Isabelle Brooks (season 15), Nicole Paige Brooks (season 2), Olivia Lux (season 13), Phoenix (season 3) and Tina Burner (season 13).

Notably, Ginger returns for her fourth time competing on the show, while newbie Lydia returns to compete fresh off her run on the recently wrapped 17th season of Drag Race. Jorgeous, too, immediately came back to the All Stars stage after competing on season 9.

The competition will sport a first-of-its-kind format that will see the queens divided into three groups of six. There, they will compete to earn points across three episodes in their own brackets. Then, the top three competitors from each bracket will advance into the semi-finals, where they will battle against one another over two episodes. The final queens standing will battle one another in a Lip Sync Smackdown for the Crown, where a winner will be named.

RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars season 10 will debut via Paramount+ on May 9 with new episodes. Additional episodes of All Stars Untucked will also be available to stream..

The Futon Critic
Deadline
Variety
Variety
TV Line
The Wrap
The Wrap
The Hollywood Reporter
The Hollywood Reporter
Entertainment Weekly

The Hollywood Reporter

Variety

The Wrap

TV Line

Deadline

Deadline

The Futon Critic

The Futon Critic

Variety

The Wrap

TV Line

Deadline

The Wrap

Variety

The Hollywood Reporter

posted 5/9/2025

"House of Villains" Renewed, BUT...
E! Series Moves to Peacock
From Deadline

House of Villains has a new home. The reality show is to become a Peacock original after it was renewed for a third season for the streamer, moving away from its original home at E! after it was spun off by its parent company.

Comcast recently spun off its cable networks, including E!, USA Network and Syfy, launching Versant.

House of Villains becomes the first original series changing hands as a result of the corporate move.

The series, which is hosted by Joel McHale, brings together 11 reality all-stars who must scheme, strategize and shade each other in different challenges for a chance to win $200,000 and the title of “America’s Ultimate Supervillain.” It will launch its third season on Peacock in early 2026.

Deadline
Variety
TV Insider

posted 5/9/2025

"Golden Bachelor" Hires New Showrunner
Jessica Castro to Oversee New Season
From Deadline

There’s another new showrunner in The Bachelor universe.

Deadline reports that Jessica Castro has been named showrunner of The Golden Bachelor. This comes after the dating show was renewed for a second season with NFL veteran-turned-lawyer Mel Owens starring as the latest golden man.

Castro’s credits include being showrunner of Amazon’s zodiac dating show Cosmic Love and she has also exec produced series including ABC’s Claim to Fame and worked on Netflix’s Next in Fashion.

The series is expected to start filming relatively soon with a fall premiere likely.

Deadline

posted 5/9/2025


CBS

UPFRONTS: CBS
"The Road", "America's Culinary Cup" Join "Survivor", "Race", "Squares", "TPIR@Night"
From the Futon Critic

CBS, which is on track to win its 17th consecutive season as the most-watched network, today announced its 2025-2026 primetime programming lineup of CBS Originals, featuring one new comedy, four action-packed dramas, three unscripted series, 18 returning series, sports and special event programming. It also revealed new series orders for Y: MARSHALS and HARLAN COBEN'S FINAL TWIST.

The 2025-2026 schedule reflects significant programming moves:

· Mondays launch a powerful new Dick Wolf drama block from 9:00-11:00 PM with FBI and CIA and offbeat new comedy DMV at 8:30 PM.

· Tuesdays introduce the first-ever all NCIS night featuring the #1 global franchise from 8:00-11:00 PM.

· Wednesdays add two big names for midseason and spring with HARLAN COBEN'S FINAL TWIST true-crime series and Padma Lakshmi's cooking competition series AMERICA'S CULINARY CUP airing after the highly anticipated SURVIVOR 50.

· Fridays package three compelling Jerry Bruckheimer Television-produced dramas: SHERIFF COUNTRY, FIRE COUNTRY and BOSTON BLUE.

· Sundays present two Taylor Sheridan-produced series, beginning with the singing competition series THE ROAD, featuring Blake Shelton, Keith Urban and Gretchen Wilson, for fall, and in midseason, the one-hour drama Y: MARSHALS (working title), starring Luke Grimes reprising his role as Kayce Dutton.

"Our 2025-2026 primetime schedule boasts a star-studded lineup of returning hit shows and new exciting series from top creators and producers," said Amy Reisenbach, president of CBS Entertainment. "Coming off another winning season enabled us to make bold scheduling moves and fortify our strong lineup with thematically compatible programs every night of the week for strong viewer flow and to serve as a powerful launch pad for the new shows. Additionally, we're appreciative of our loyal audiences who regularly watch on CBS and Paramount+ and to our creative partners who continue to deliver outstanding content."

NEW 2025-2026 FALL SERIES:
· THE ROAD, a new singing competition series from executive producers Taylor Sheridan, Blake Shelton and Keith Urban trails GRAMMY Award winner Urban on his journey to discover the next big artist with the help of "tour manager," GRAMMY Award-winning country artist Gretchen Wilson.
· BOSTON BLUE stars Donnie Wahlberg reprising his role as NYPD officer Danny Reagan and Sonequa Martin-Green as Danny's new Boston PD partner, Lena Peters.
· SHERIFF COUNTRY stars Morena Baccarin as straight-shooting sheriff Mickey Fox.
· CIA stars Tom Ellis in a new crime drama from Emmy Award-winning executive producer Dick Wolf.
· DMV, starring Harriet Dyer, Tim Meadows, Tony Cavalero, Molly Kearney, Gigi Zumbado and Alex Tarrant, is a single-camera workplace comedy set at the Department of Motor Vehicles.

NEW 2025-2026 MIDSEASON SERIES:
· Y: MARSHALS (working title) is a new drama starring Luke Grimes as Kayce Dutton.
· HARLAN COBEN'S FINAL TWIST features best-selling author Coben, with over 90 million books sold globally and multiple scripted series, as he steps into the true-crime television genre for the first time.
· AMERICA'S CULINARY CUP, hosted and executive produced by Emmy Award-nominated food expert Padma Lakshmi, is a new cooking competition series featuring the most decorated chefs in America.

RETURNING #1 SERIES:
· TRACKER - #1 series on television starring Justin Hartley
· MATLOCK - #1 new series, starring Kathy Bates
· NCIS - the world's #1 TV franchise
· GEORGIE & MANDY'S FIRST MARRIAGE - #1 comedy
· 60 MINUTES - #1 news program
· HOLLYWOOD SQUARES - #1 new unscripted series

FOR 2026-2027 SEASON:
· EINSTEIN, a drama starring Matthew Gray Gubler
· CUPERTINO, drama from Emmy Award-winning executive producers Robert and Michelle King ordered to writers room for 12 episode scripts

THE SCHEDULE...

MONDAY
- 8p: The Neighborhood
- 8:30p: DMV
- 9p: FBI
- 10p: CIA

TUESDAY
- 8p: NCIS
- 9p: NCIS: Origins
- 10p: NCIS: Sydney

WEDNESDAY - FALL
- 8p: Survivor 49
- 9:30p: The Amazing Race

WEDNESDAY - WINTER
- 8p: Hollywood Squares
- 9p: The Price Is Right at Night

- 10p: HARLAN COBEN'S FINAL TWIST

WEDNESDAY - SPRING
- 8p: Survivor 50
- 9:30p: AMERICA'S CULINARY CUP
- 10:30p: Hollywood Squares

THURSDAY
- 8p: Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage
- 8:30p: Ghosts
- 9p: Matlock
- 10p: Elsbeth

FRIDAY
- 8p: SHERIFF COUNTRY
- 9p: Fire Country
- 10p: BOSTON BLUE

SATURDAY
- 8p: Encores
- 10p: 48 Hours

SUNDAY - FALL
- 7p: 60 Minutes
- 8p: Tracker
- 9p: THE ROAD
- 10p: Encores

SUNDAY - SPRING
- 7p: 60 Minutes
- 8p: Tracker
- 9p: Y: MARSHALS
- 10p: Watson


The Futon Critic
Deadline
TV Line
The Wrap
The Wrap

Variety

Variety

TV Insider

TV Insider
Reality TV World

posted 5/9/2025

Happy Friday Lightning Round
... or "Why an Internet Mom Won't Do Reality"

  • Dolly Parton refuses to do "The Voice", "American Idol". She explains why (TV Insider)

  • Sharna Burgess reveals pregnancy (Reality TV World)

  • Franklin Jonas addresses Claim to Fame being absent from the summer schedule (Entertainment Tonight)

  • Seven drops "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire UK" (TV Blackbox)

  • A FEW GOOD MINUTES with Julianne Hough (Variety)

posted 5/9/2025

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