SitcomsOnline.com News Blog

Classic TV's Biggest Auction; Remembering Will Hutchins and Wink Martindale

Lecy Goranson (The Conners & Roseanne) appeared at the preview of TV's biggest auction CHANNEL SURFING at Julien's Auctions in Los Angeles. Lecy Goranson who played Becky Conner was reunited with one of the most famous and instantly recognizable TV couches–the beige plaid sofa and knitted afghan blanket used by the brash and lovable Conner family on the smash hit comedy series Roseanne. Originally bought at Sears in 1988 and previously exhibited at the Smithsonian Institution, the artifact will go under the hammer May 7th-8th coming off the series finale of the Roseanne reboot series The Conners. Other items from Roseanne up for offer and seen in the video include costumes worn by Roseanne Barr ("Chicken Hearts" episode waitress uniform and pink bathrobe and nightgown), Laurie Metcalf (police uniform), Sara Gilbert (hoodie and jeans) and John Goodman (red, white and blue plaid shirt and Lee jeans).

Channel Surfing features an astonishing collection of over 600 iconic objects and important TV memorabilia that will be sold for the first time to the public in a historic two-day auction taking place Wednesday, May 7th and Thursday, May 8th live at Julien's Studios in Los Angeles and online at Julien's Auctions. Iconic items will be offered from the shows Cheers, Frasier, Roseanne, Wonder Woman, All in the Family, Law & Order, Saturday Night Live, Late Night with David Letterman, Mad Men, M*A*S*H, Beverly Hills 90210, Cher show/Sonny & Cher Show, The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, Six Feet Under, Breaking Bad, Dynasty, The Handmaid's Tale, Dexter, Veep, The Sopranos, Boardwalk Empire, The Facts of Life, The Office, The Carol Burnett Show, American Idol, Survivor, Captain Kangaroo, Get Smart, Lost in Space, The Greatest American Hero, Deal or No Deal, The X-Files, Star Trek, The Munsters, The Brady Bunch, and more.

Actor Will Hutchins, who starred as Woody Banner in Hey, Landlord and as Dagwood Bumstead in Blondie (1968-1969), has died. He died of respiratory failure at North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, New York, on April 21. Mr. Hutchins was 94.

Hutchins starred as Woody Banner in the short-lived 1966-1967 CBS sitcom Hey, Landlord. Woody Banner learns that his uncle has died and that he has inherited from him a New York City brownstone apartment building in Manhattan's East 30s as its landlord. It served as the first TV show as co-creator/producer for Garry Marshall. The series also starred Sandy Baron, Pamela Rodgers, Miko Mayama, Michael Constantine, Ann Morgan Guilbert, and Kathryn Minner.

He starred as Dagwood Bumstead in the short-lived 1968-1969 CBS sitcom Blondie. The series is an updated version of the 1957 TV series based on the comic strip of the same name. The series stars Patricia Harty as the title character and Will Hutchins as her husband, Dagwood Bumstead. Other cast members included Jim Backus, Peter Robbins, Pamelyn Ferdin, Henny Backus, Bobbi Jordan, and Bryan O'Byrne.

Hutchins was best known for his role as Tom "Sugarfoot" Brewster in the 1957-1961 ABC western Sugarfoot. Tom Brewster was an Easterner who comes to the Oklahoma Territory to become a lawyer. Brewster was a correspondence-school student whose apparent lack of cowboy skills earned him the nickname "Sugarfoot", a designation even below that of a tenderfoot. Hutchins was the only regular on the show.

He guest starred in a 1972 episode of Love, American Style. Some of his other television guest appearances included Conflict (3 episodes), Matinee Theatre (4 episodes), 77 Sunset Strip (2 episodes), Maverick, Cheyenne, The Roaring 20's, Bronco, Surfside 6, Gunsmoke, The Alfred Hitchcock Hour, Perry Mason, The New Perry Mason, Emergency!, Chase, Movin' On, and The Streets of San Francisco.

Hutchins co-starred with Elvis Presley as Lt. Tracy Richards in Spinout (1966) and as Tom Wilson/"Scott Hayward" in Clambake (1967). He played real-life American scout Frederick Russell Burnham in Shanghai Patrol (1970).

Mr. Hutchins was a talented and versatile actor. He later became a ringmaster and a clown for various circuses. We thank him for his work on television and in films. He will be greatly missed.

Disc jockey, radio personality, game show host and television producer Wink Martindale, who hosted Gambit and Tic-Tac-Dough, has died. He died from lymphoma at a hospital in Rancho Mirage, California, on April 15. Mr. Martindale was 91.

Martindale hosted the 1972-1976 CBS game show Gambit and the 1980-1981 NBC game show Las Vegas Gambit. He hosted Tic-Tac-Dough on CBS and in first-run syndication from 1978 to 1985. He hosted the 1987-1988 syndicated version of High Rollers. He hosted the 1996-1998 Lifetime game show Debt for two seasons.

He guest starred as himself in an episode of the 1983 ABC sitcom Just Our Luck. He does a burlesque quiz show in which he couldn't seem to give away anything. In 1997, he appeared as himself with Bea Arthur in an episode of the CBS sitcom Dave's World. Some of his other television guest appearances included Equal Justice and The Bold and the Beautiful (4 episodes as Reverend Brown). He provided the voice of Wink Martiandale in a 1987 episode of The Jetsons and Sphinx Martindale in a 1998 episode of Hercules.

Martindale started his career as a disc jockey. His rendition of the spoken-word song "Deck of Cards" went to No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and sold over a million copies in 1959.

He was interviewed for The Interviews: An Oral History of Television on April 11, 2017.

Mr. Martindale was a game show host legend. He hosted or was involved in the production of over 20 game shows. On October 13, 2007, he was one of the first inductees into the American TV Game Show Hall of Fame in Las Vegas. We thank him for the entertainment during his career. He will be sorely missed.

We also remember Filipino-American actor Patrick Adiarte. He had a recurring role as Ho-Jon in the first and second seasons of M*A*S*H. He died of pneumonia in a Los Angeles-area hospital on April 15. Mr. Adiarte was 82.

Adiarte had a recurring role as Ho-Jon in seven episodes of the first and second seasons of the CBS sitcom M*A*S*H from 1972 to 1973. Ho-Jon is an orphaned Korean houseboy who assisted Hawkeye Pierce (Alan Alda) and Trapper John McIntyre (Wayne Rogers).

He guest starred as David in two episodes of the ABC sitcom The Brady Bunch in 1972. In "Hawaii Bound" and "Pass the Tabu", he is the construction gofer who gives the kids a tour before things get chaotic when Bobby discovers a small tiki idol that could be cursed.

Adiarte guest starred in a 1973 episode of The New Temperatues Rising. Some of his other television credits included CBS Playhouse, It Takes a Thief, Ironside, Bonanza, Hawaii Five-O (1972), and Kojak (2 episodes). He was a regular dancer on the 1965-1966 NBC musical variety series Hullabaloo.

Some of his film credits included The King and I (1956), High Time (1960), and Flower Drumg Song (1961).

Mr. Adiarte focused on dance instruction after retiring from screen work. We thank him for his work on television and in films. He will be greatly missed.

Actor Nicky Katt starred as Matthew MacLane in Herbie, the Love Bug. He was found dead by his landlord who went to collect his overdue rent on April 8 at his home in Burbank, California. He had died by suicide by hanging and appeared to have been dead for several days before his body was discovered. Mr. Katt was 54.

Katt starred as Matthew MacLane in the short-lived 1982 CBS sitcom Herbie, the Love Bug. Dean Jones, who had appeared in two of the films (The Love Bug and Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo), reprises his role of Jim Douglas, Herbie's original owner, now a retired race car driver who works as an instructor at the Famous Driving School with his partner Bo Phillips (Richard Paul). The series also starred Patricia Harty, Claudia Wells, Douglas Emerson, Bryan Utman, Larry Linville, and Natalie Core.

Some of his sitcom guest apperances included The Facts of Life, Dear John (2 episodes), Uncle Buck (1991), Love & War, Double Rush, Friends, and Casual. He provided various voices for three episodes of King of the Hill.

He was known for his starring role as Harry Senate in the Fox drama Boston Public from 2000 to 2002. He played Sean Donovan in two episodes of V: The Series. Some of his other television guest appearances included CHiPs, Father Murphy (2 episodes), Code Red, Voyagers!, Trapper John, M.D. (1982), Quincy, M.E. (1983), The Guardian (2 episodes), Monk, Love Monkey, and Law & Order.

Some of his film credits included Dazed and Confused (1993), A Time to Kill (1996), The Limey (1999), Boiler Room (2000), The Way of the Gun (2000), Insomnia (2002), Secondhand Lions (2003), and Sin City (2005).

Mr. Katt began his career as a child actor, and as an adult, frequently played unsympathetic characters or villains. We thank him for his work on television and in films. He will be sorely missed.

Actor Joey D. Vieira had recurring roles in The Pride of the Family and Hank. He died on April 7 following a long illness while receiving hospice care. Mr. Vieira was 80.

Vieira had a recurring role as Hollis Bridwell in seven episodes of the 1953-1954 ABC sitcom The Pride of the Family. He had a recurring role as Norman Zelinko in nine episodes of the 1965-1966 NBC sitcom Hank.

Some of his other sitcom guest appearances included The Ray Milland Show, Mayor of the Town, The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis (2 episodes), My Three Sons, and Married...with Children.

He began as a child actor using the professional name Donald Keeler playing Sylvester "Porky" Brockway, a farm boy and Jeff's friend, in the first several seasons (1954–57) of Lassie.

Some of his film credits included Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986) and The Patriot (2000).

Mr. Vieira spent over 65 years in show business. He was the older half-brother of the late child actor Ken Weatherwax, widely known for portraying Pugsley Addams on The Addams Family. We thank him for his work on television and in films. He will be greatly missed.

Posted by Todd -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:30 PM

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Labels: GSN, M*A*S*H, Obits, Roseanne, The Conners, Tic Tac Dough

SitcomsOnline Digest: Netflix Gives Pilot Order to A Different World Sequel; Malcolm in the Middle Reboot Recasts Role of Dewey

  Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! This week is mostly about reboots. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• Netflix has given a pilot order to a sequel to A Different World, which given how Netflix typically orders shows straight to series, is an unusual thing. (Variety)
• We've been talking about the Malcolm in the Middle reboot for some time, and now we're learning that the role of Dewey will be recast. (Variety)
• Even though it will have ultimately been 17 seasons from the beginning of Roseanne to the end of The Conners, Laurie Metcalf doesn't think that much time has been enough time to wrap up the storylines on the series. (Deadline)
• Is it time for a reboot of The Critic? Jon Lovitz thinks so. (Deadline)
• Adult Swim has renewed Common Side Effects for a second season. (Hollywood Reporter)
• It seems that broadcast daytime TV has mostly become court shows lately, and now the Amazon Prime series Tribunal Justice will be joining those lineups this fall, with clearance in 95% of the US. (Deadline)
• Even though it was previously renewed for a third season, After Midnight on CBS will be ending this summer, and CBS has decided that they will no longer air new programming in the 12:30 AM hour. (Hollywood Reporter)
• We're getting closer and closer to Pat Sajak's "final spin" on Celebrity Wheel of Fortune. (SitcomsOnline)

WEEKLY PLANNER (MARCH 29 - APRIL 4)

• Tomorrow's binge on Catchy Comedy is Mama's Family.
• The first ten episodes of the Hulu series Mid-Century Modern are now available to stream.
• The Simpsons took a short hiatus on Fox so that Family Guy could have some time at 8 PM, but it returns tomorrow night (and Family Guy moves to 8:30).

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: A Different World, After Midnight, Common Side Effects, Malcolm in the Middle, Mama's Family, SitcomsOnline Digest, The Conners, The Critic

The Conners Final Season Premieres March 26; Tyler Perry Gets 2nd Comedy Series for Netflix

The 6 episode farewell event for The Conners begins Wednesday, March 26 at 8:00pm on ABC and Stream on Hulu. Through thick and thin, the Conners have stuck together. Season seven will bring the series to a total of 112 episodes once the series finale airs. The sitcom stars John Goodman, Laurie Metcalf, Sara Gilbert, Lecy Goranson, Emma Kenney, Ames McNamara, Jayden Ray, Jay R. Ferguson and Katey Sagal.

Netflix and Tyler Perry announced two new Netflix projects: a new film, Madea's Destination Wedding , and a new comedy series, She the People. The new projects mark Tyler Perry's sixth film and second series from his creative partnership with Netflix, which sees him write, direct, and produce films, series, and faith-based features. She the People marks Perry's second series for Netflix after Beauty in Black which reached #1 on the Global Top 10 TV List (English) following its debut. In She the People, Lieutenant Governor candidate Antoinette Dunkerson runs a successful campaign and now must figure out how to thrive under a sexist and condescending governor while attempting to keep her family in line now that they're all in the public eye

Starring Terri J. Vaughn, Jade Novah, Drew Olivia Tillman, Tré Boyd, Dyon Brooks, and Jo Marie Payton.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: ABC, Hulu, Netflix, She the People, The Conners, Tyler Perry

ABC Midseason 2025 Schedule; Jim Gaffigan Gets First Hulu Comedy Special

ABC announced its 2025 midseason premiere dates, featuring a slate of laugh-out-loud comedies, high-octane dramas and fan-favorite unscripted series. Extreme Makeover: Home Edition makes its long-awaited return to ABC with all the feels beginning Thursday, January 2. The new iteration, hosted by Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin, co-founders of the global lifestyle brand The Home Edit, will be followed by the exclusive broadcast premiere of season two of the Emmy® Award-nominated Hulu Original comedy Only Murders in the Building. Will Trent premieres Tuesday, January 7, followed by the midseason return of High Potential and a new season of The Rookie.

Tim Allen and Kat Dennings star in new comedy series Shifting Gears premiering Wednesday, January 8, followed by the highly anticipated Abbott Elementary and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia crossover episode, which kicks off the Emmy Award-winning series’ midseason return. New episodes of Celebrity Jeopardy!, hosted by Ken Jennings, and What Would You Do? round out the evening. NBA Saturday Primetime on ABC returns for select Saturdays beginning January 25 (Los Angeles Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors). On Monday, January 27, Grant Ellis begins his journey on The Bachelor, followed by the exclusive broadcast debut of season one of Hulu's most-watched unscripted season premiere this year, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. ABC News' Scamanda and Hulu's Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini will air beginning Thursday, January 30 from 9-11pm, before the fan-favorite drama series 9-1-1, Doctor Odyssey and Grey's Anatomy return to the iconic Thursday night lineup on March 6.

The search for a superstar begins when American Idol premieres Sunday, March 9, on ABC, with Carrie Underwood joining Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and host Ryan Seacrest a remarkable 20 years after she claimed the title. The $100,000 Pyramid has been renewed for season eight and will join the Sunday night lineup following Idol. The farewell season of The Conners will return in March 2025 with a night and time to be announced. And Celebrity Wheel of Fortune and Press Your Luck will also return in the new year, but airdates to be announced at a later date (they both will air Holiday episodes this December, though).

It's Jim like you've never seen him before. In his new #Hularious stand-up special The Skinny, Jim Gaffigan weighs in on everything from teenagers to brunch to weight-loss medication - but he's never light on laughs. Considered one of the most prolific comedians working today, 7 time Grammy nominee Jim Gaffigan provides the skinny on everything from appetite suppressants to raising teenagers in Hulu's very first comedy special. Stream Jim Gaffigan: The Skinny November 22 on #Hulu and with #HuluOnDisneyPlus.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: $100000 Pyramid, 9-1-1, Abbott Elementary, ABC, Grey's Anatomy, Hulu, Jeopardy, Press Your Luck, Shark Tank, Shifting Gears, The Bachelor, The Conners, The Jim Gaffigan Show, The Rookie, Wheel of Fortune, Will Trent

Laff Fall 2024 Schedule with The Conners and Bob ♥ Abishola; CBS' Comfy Blue Sofa Tour

Laff has added two new sitcoms to its comedy line-up this fall. The Conners is airing weeknights at 11pm & 11:30pm, while Bob ♥ Abishola airs weekday afternoons at 1pm & 1:30pm. They are not getting the two-hour treatment as some of their biggest hits like Last Man Standing, Home Improvement and That '70s Show. Other sitcoms on weekdays still airing (in one-hour blocks) are According to Jim, Man with a Plan, Grounded for Life and ALF. Matthew Perry's The Odd Couple is off the schedule and The Millers has moved to Sundays only. Both The Conners and Bob ♥ Abishola entered syndication this fall as well.

CBS Premiere Week begins Sunday, Oct. 13 with hit series Tracker. And CBS launched its Comfy Blue Sofa Tour, an innovative and inviting way to connect with fans across the country and to celebrate the Network's imminent rollout of new - and returning-favorite - dramas, comedies and reality series. Nodding to the Network's iconic blue hue, the tour is a symbol of the comfort, joy and simple satisfaction that CBS brings into people's homes with its popular shows.

CBS' Comfy Blue Sofa Tour, in partnership with home furnishing and technology brand Lovesac, debuted with a "sit-and-repeat" press line at last night's "You're Laughing at CBS: A Night of Sit-Down Comedy" event at NeueHouse in L.A. Set to hit the road through Oct. 12 (the eve of CBS Premiere Week), CBS and Lovesac are bringing friends and families together in celebration of the CBS fall season. Along the tour, CBS is inviting fans to join them on the "Comfy Blue Sofa," otherwise known as the beloved Lovesac Sactionals, for sneak peeks of upcoming CBS shows, meet-and-greets with stars at select locations, memorable photo opportunities and giveaways. Wherever audiences see the Comfy Blue Sofa, it's a signal that CBS Premiere Week is close.

In addition to the regular-sized comfy sofas at the various tour stops, CBS is dispatching a gigantic (20 ft. long, 8 ft. high), eye-catching sofa, serving as a marquee for the Comfy Blue Sofa Tour. It will be visible as it travels on highways and through cities, towns, bodies of water and country roads across the U.S. (stopping at festivals, events and landmarks) to remind fans that the Network's "comfort TV" is just around the corner. The comfy blue sofas will also find their way onto the sets of popular CBS shows to reinforce the signal that CBS Fall is about to begin. CBS' social posts on Threads (@CBS) and Instagram Stories (@CBSTV) will alert fans to the fun, easy and unexpected places the tour will stop throughout the campaign.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: Bob ♥ Abishola, CBS, LAFF, The Conners

ABC Fall 2024 Premiere Dates; Remembering Doug Sheehan of Day by Day and Clueless and Benji Gregory of ALF

ABC announced premiere dates for the network's action-packed fall, featuring previously announced fan-favorite series, high-octane new dramas and The Bachelor franchise's newest iteration. This news comes on the heels of the network closing out the 2023-2024 season as No. 1 in entertainment among Adults 18-49 for the fifth consecutive season, marking the longest winning streak in over 10 years. Monday Night Football returns for select weeks beginning Sept. 9 (New York Jets at San Francisco 49ers). Then, on Monday, Oct. 7, beloved game shows join the lineup with Pat Sajak's final spin hosting Celebrity Wheel of Fortune leading into Elizabeth Banks-hosted Press Your Luck.

From Oscar®-nominated writer Drew Goddard and starring Kaitlin Olson, freshman crime procedural High Potential joins ballroom sensation Dancing with the Stars on Tuesdays, kicking off Sept. 17. The Golden Bachelorette makes its debut Wednesday, Sept. 18 with two-hour episodes for the first few weeks, with new leading lady Joan Vassos; and a new season of Emmy® and Golden Globe® Award-winning comedy Abbott Elementary joins the night Oct. 9 at 9:30pm, followed by the ABC News Studios docuseries Scamanda. Then, from executive producer Ryan Murphy and starring Joshua Jackson and Don Johnson, highly anticipated new drama Doctor Odyssey debuts Thursday, Sept. 26 at 9pm, alongside 9-1-1 and the longest-running primetime medical drama in television history, Grey's Anatomy.

A new season of ABC News' 20/20 premieres Friday, Sept. 20, and season 16 of Shark Tank dives into the night starting Oct. 18. America’s Funniest Home Videos celebrates its monumental 35th season beginning Sunday, Sept. 29, before The Wonderful World of Disney world television premiere of the live-action The Little Mermaid. Additional films to debut this season include the world television premieres of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny and Haunted Mansion, as well as the broadcast premiere of Hocus Pocus 2. Airdates and additional movies to be announced at a later date. As previously announced, new seasons of returning dramas The Rookie and Will Trent will debut midseason (January), along with the celebratory farewell season of legacy comedy The Conners. Also returning midseason are American Idol, The Bachelor, Celebrity Jeopardy! and What Would You Do?, while Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, from executive producer Reese Witherspoon and hosted by world-renowned organizing duo Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin of The Home Edit, is also set to debut. These premiere dates will be announced at a later date.

Actor Doug Sheehan, who starred as Brian Harper in Day by Day and as Mel Horowitz in Clueless, has died. He died at his home in Big Horn, Wyoming, on June 29. Mr. Sheehan was 75.

Sheehan starred as Brian Harper in the 1988-1989 NBC sitcom Day by Day. The show centers on Brian and Kate Harper (Linda Kelsey), a married couple with two successful careers (Brian as a stockbroker, Kate as a lawyer) and a teenage son named Ross (Christopher Daniel ("C.B.") Barnes). They open a daycare center in their home. The series also starred Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Courtney Thorne-Smith and Thora Birch.

He starred as Mel Horowitz in the UPN sitcom Clueless for seasons 2 and 3 (1997-1999). Mel Horowitz is Cher Horowitz's (Rachel Blanchard) rich, widowed lawyer. He replaced Michael Lerner, who played Mel Horowitz during the first season (1996-1997), which aired on ABC. The cast included Stacey Dash, Donald Adeosun Faison, Elisa Donovan, Sean Holland, David Lascher (season 1), Twink Caplan (season 1), Wallace Shawn (season 1), Heather Gottlieb (season 1) and Julie Brown.

Sheehan played Edward Spellman, Sabrina Spellman's (Melissa Joan Hart) father, in two episodes of Sabrina the Teenage Witch. Some of his other sitcom guest appearances included Cheers, Alice, Dear John and Style & Substance.

His first major role was as Joe Kelly in the daytime soap opera General Hospital from 1979 to 1982. He was nominated for the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for the role in 1982.

He starred as journalist Ben Gibson in the CBS primetime soap opera Knots Landing from 1983 to 1987. Ben Gibson was the second husband of Valene Ewing (Joan Van Ark).

Some of his other television guest appearances Charlie's Angels (1978), Kaz, MacGyver (1990), Columbo (1993), Promised Land, Diagnosis: Murder, Passions (6 episodes as Mr. Davis) and That Was Then.

Mr. Sheehan was a talented and versatile actor. Day by Day is a funny show with a great cast, which should have had a longer run. It should be available on DVD or streaming. He will be greatly missed.

Actor Benji Gregory, who starred as Brian Tanner in ALF, has died. On June 13, Gregory and his service dog, Hans, were found dead inside a car at a Chase Bank parking lot in Peoria, Arizona. However, news of his death was not publicly disclosed until July 11, when the cause of his death was still under investigation. His sister Rebecca said he had suffered from depression, bipolar disorder and a sleep disorder and said he likely died of a heat stroke after falling asleep in his car. On September 13, 2024, the Maricopa County Medical Examiner revealed that Gregory died of both hepatic cirrhosis, with Gregory being revealed to have had a damaged liver, and heat exposure. The death was ruled accidental. Mr. Gregory was only 46.

He starred as Brian Tanner in the 1986-1990 NBC sitcom ALF. The title character, called ALF (an acronym for "Alien Life Form") but whose real name is Gordon Shumway, crash-lands in the garage of the suburban middle-class Tanner family. Brian Tanner is the middlest son of the Tanner family. He is nicknamed 'B' by the rest of the cast. The cast included Paul Fusco (performed and voiced ALF), Max Wright, Anne Scheeden, Liz Sheridan, John LaMotta, Josh Blake, Anne Meara (1987) and Jim J. Bullock (1989-1990).

Gregory appeared as an orphan named Dash in two episodes of Punky Brewster. The final episode in Season 1, titled "Fenster Hall" (aired March 31, 1985), was a failed attempt to create a spin-off of Punky Brewster.

He played Brian in a 1991 episode of Murphy Brown. Some of his other television guest appearances included The A-Team, T.J. Hooker, Amazing Stories and The Twilight Zone (1985). Some of his voice credits included Pound Puppies, Fantastic Max and Back to the Future: The Animated Series (as Biff Tannen Jr.).

He played Harry Carlson, Jr. in Jumpin' Jack Flash (1986). He supplied the voice of Edgar the Mole in the animated feature Once Upon a Forest (1993), which would be his final acting role.

Mr. Gregory was a good child actor. After leaving the acting industry, he served a stint in the U.S. Navy after graduating from school. He enlisted in 2003 and became an aerographer's mate. During his naval career he was assigned to the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70). In 2005, he received an honorable medical discharge from the Navy. We thank him for his work on television and in films and for his service in the Navy. He will be sorely missed.

We also remember television executive Jamie Kellner. He was a founding president of Fox Broadcasting and founded The WB network. He died from cancer on June 21 in Montecito, California. Mr. Kellner was 74.

Kellner was present at the establishment of the Fox Broadcasting Company and held the position as chairman of 20th Century Fox Television from 1986 to 1993. Among the shows that emerged during his seven years at Fox were The Simpsons, Married... with Children, Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990-2000), Melrose Place and In Living Color.

He then spent seven years at the helm of The WB Television Network. He helped launch the new broadcast network in 1994. During his tenure, he began by championing urban sitcoms such as The Wayans Bros., The Parent 'Hood and Sister, Sister, but eventually steered the network in the direction of teen and family-oriented dramas. 7th Heaven, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Gilmore Girls, Dawson's Creek, Felicity and Charmed all premiered during his presidency.

Kellner was made head of Turner Broadcasting System in 2000, officially succeeding Ted Turner in March 2001. He was chairman and CEO of Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a division of Time Warner which includes TBS, TNT, and Cartoon Network from 2001 to 2003. He was the chairman of station ownership group ACME Communications, a post held from the company's founding until its folding in 2016.

We thank him for the television shows be brought us at Fox, The WB and Turner. He will be missed.

Television producer and screenwriter Jonathan Axelrod worked on Dave's World. He died in Los Angeles on June 13. Mr. Axelrod was 74.

He was executive producer on the 1993-1997 CBS sitcom Dave's World. The series is based on the writing of Miami Herald columnist Dave Barry. The show focuses on the daily trials and tribulations of columnist Dave Barry (Harry Anderson) and his wife, Beth (DeLane Matthews), along with their sons, Tommy (Zane Carney) and Willie (Andrew Ducote).

Some of his other sitcom producing credits included Can't Hurry Love, Brother's Keeper, Movie Stars and Some of My Best Friends. He was one of the writers of the 1972 comedy film Every Little Crook and Nanny.

We thank him for his work on Dave's World and other sitcoms. He will be missed.

Actress Susan Buckner starred as Lucy Davis in When the Whistle Blows. She died on May 2 in Miami, Florida. Ms. Buckner was 72.

Buckner starred as Lucy Davis in the short-lived 1980 ABC sitcom When the Whistle Blows. The series revolves around a group of construction workers – four males (Norm, Buzz, Randy and Hunk) and one female (Lucy) – for the "Tri-State Construction Company" in Los Angeles and their search for fun both on and off the job. It was filmed single-camera style and without a laugh track. The cast included Doug Brown, Philip Brown, Tim Rossovich, Dolph Sweet, Alice Hirson, Gary Allen, Noble Willingham and Sue Ane Langdon.

She appeared as one of The Krofftettes who performed synchronised swimming routines on the 1976-1997 ABC variety show The Brady Bunch Hour.

Buckner played Kim Patterson in a 1979 episode of The Love Boat. Some of her other television guest appearances included Police Woman, Switch, Starsky & Hutch, The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries (3 episodes) and B.J. and the Bear.

She portrayed high school cheerleader Patty Simcox in the 1978 summer blockbuster Grease, starring Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta. She starred as Vicky Anderson in the 1981 slasher film Deadly Blessing.

Ms. Buckner was crowned Miss Washington in 1971 and in September went on to become a top ten finalist in the Miss America 1972 pageant. We thank her for her work on television and in films. She will be deeply missed.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: 9-1-1, Abbott Elementary, ABC, ALF, Clueless, Dancing with the Stars, Day by Day, Grey's Anatomy, Jeopardy, Knots Landing, Obits, Press Your Luck, The Bachelor, The Conners, The Rookie, Wheel of Fortune, Will Trent

SitcomsOnline Digest: MeTV Announces MeTV Toons; Night Court Renewed for Third Season

Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! It's been a crazy busy week this week with the announcement of a MeTV spinoff, lots of Paramount news, renewals and cancelations, and more. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• We mentioned that there were rumors of this a few months ago, but MeTV Toons, a spinoff of MeTV dedicated to classic cartoons, is coming next month, and if no local channel in your area decides to pick it up, it appears it will also be available on ad-supported streaming services. (Variety)
• The Paramount cable networks have temporarily avoided being pulled by Spectrum this week as their agreement ended while negotiations continue, but it still isn't looking great as Spectrum's goal seems to be to remove anything that isn't a top rated cable network. (Deadline)
• Meanwhile, Paramount is still for sale, and a joint partnership between Sony and Apollo Management is the most recent offer, but some analysts feel that a sale may never actually occur. (Variety)
• Night Court has secured a third season at NBC, and while it may not be quite a full season, it will come close. (Hollywood Reporter)
• This is one we didn't see coming as it was widely expected that the current season would be the last, but ABC is reportedly renewing The Conners for one last (very short) season. (TVLine)
• For the first time since he was fired by the network 19 years ago, Dan Rather is set to return to CBS News as the subject of an interview about his career at CBS News. (The Hollywood Reporter)
• It's that time of the year, and we've got the CBS fall lineup, which is very light on sitcoms and includes a new version of Hollywood Squares with Drew Barrymore hosting. (SitcomsOnline)

WEEKLY PLANNER (MAY 4 - MAY 10)

• Catchy Comedy has a binge of The Beverly Hillbillies this weekend, with a few "special" things included such as the extended unaired pilot and the movie Return of the Beverly Hillbillies.
• CBS has a series finale for Bob Hearts Abishola and a season finale for The Neighborhood on Monday.
• The season (and not series like we thought it would be) finale of The Conners airs on Wednesday.
• Ghosts also has a season finale Thursday on CBS, but it will be back next season.

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: Hollywood Squares, MeTV Toons, Night Court, Paramount, SitcomsOnline Digest, The Conners

Bob Hearts Abishola Coming to Syndication This Fall; Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter Returns in May

Bob Hearts Abishola is ending its run on CBS this spring but it will premiere in broadcast syndication this fall for a three-year deal on such station groups as Nexstar Media Group, Sinclair, Hearst Television, Tegna, E.W. Scripps, Weigel Broadcasting, Sunbeam Television, Gray Television, Mission Broadcasting, Lockwood Broadcast Group and Bahakel Broadcasting. It will join other fellow Chuck Lorre sitcoms in broadcast syndication - The Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, Mom and Two and a Half Men. The sitcom stars Billy Gardell as Bob, a middle-aged compression sock businessman in Detroit who falls for his cardiac nurse, Abishola (Folake Olowofoyeku), a Nigerian immigrant, while recovering from a heart attack. Undaunted by Abishola’s initial lack of interest or vast differences in their backgrounds, Bob is determined to win her heart, and eventually marries her in this comedic examination of immigrant life in America.

The Hollywood Reporter (THR) announced the return of the Emmy(R)-nominated series, Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter with five new episodes of Emmy contenders, featuring themed episodes including Comedy Actress, Drama Actor, Comedy Actor, Drama Actress and Stand-Up. The new season is set to premiere on Friday, May 24, at a new time of 10 pm PT/1 am ET exclusively on IFC and streaming on AMC+. New episodes will continue on Fridays.

Talent names for select episodes, hosted by Emmy(R)-nominated actor and comedian Yvonne Orji ("Insecure"), include:

· Comedy Actress - Friday, May 24 at 10pm PT on IFC and available to stream on AMC+
· Quinta Brunson, "Abbott Elementary"
· Maya Rudolph, "Loot"
· Kristen Wiig, "Palm Royale"
· Ego Nwodim, "Saturday Night Live"
· Michelle Buteau, "Survival of the Thickest"
· Renee Elise Goldsberry, "Girls5Eva"

· Drama Actor - Friday, June 7 at 10pm PT on IFC and available to stream on AMC+
· Jon Hamm, "Fargo"
· Nicholas Galitzine, "Mary & George"
· Clive Owen, "Monsieur Spade"
· David Oyelowo, "Lawmen: Bass Reeves"
· Matt Bomer, "Fellow Travelers"
· Callum Turner, "Masters of the Air"

· Comedy Actor - Friday, June 14 at 10pm PT on IFC and available to stream on AMC+
· Theo James, "The Gentleman"
· Ricky Martin, "Palm Royale"
· Bowen Yang, "Saturday Night Live"
· Kelsey Grammer, "Frasier"
· Anthony Mackie, "Twisted Metal"
· John Goodman, "The Righteous Gemstones" and "The Conners"

Talent names for Drama Actress and Stand-Up are forthcoming and broadcast times may be subject to change. Each episode will highlight a dynamic ensemble of actors and delve deep into the urgent issues, creative methodologies, and behind-the-scenes narratives that define entertainment. Conversations are moderated by THR's Mikey O'Connell and Lacey Rose. The show was filmed on location in The Georgian Room at The Georgian Hotel, the iconic Hollywood hangout in Santa Monica.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: Abbott Elementary, AMC, Bob ♥ Abishola, Frasier, Girls5eva, IFC, Loot, Palm Royale, Saturday Night Live, Survival of the Thickest, Syndication, The Conners, The Righteous Gemstones, Twisted Metal

SitcomsOnline Digest: Bewitched Reboot in the Works; Paramount+ and Peacock in Merger Talks

 Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! This week, we're hearing about a Bewitched reboot, a potential merger of two streaming services, and more. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• A Bewitched reboot (or maybe reimagining is the more appropriate description) is in the works, but we don't expect it to be much like the original sitcom at all. (TV Insider)
• Peacock and Paramount+ are rumored to be in merger talks. (Variety)
• The CW wants to compete with the other major broadcast networks, but is that even realistic when they're relying so much on recycling series from other countries? (Deadline)
• Although local broadcast syndication is not even close to being the powerhouse it was even ten years ago, The Conners is set for syndication in the fall. (Variety)
• The CW is working on a Scrabble game show, which may be successful but we don't think is going to be their big hit to compete with major networks. (Deadline)
• It should come as no surprise since it is basically one of the last successful survivors of broadcast network comedies, but ABC has renewed Abbott Elementary for another season. (SitcomsOnline)

WEEKLY PLANNER (FEBRUARY 17 - FEBRUARY 23)

• Catchy Comedy is having a "field day" this weekend, as they celebrate Sally Field's birthday with a binge of three of her sitcoms.
• New seasons of The Equalizer and CSI: Las Vegas arrive on CBS tomorrow night.

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: Abbott Elementary, Bewitched, Scrabble, SitcomsOnline Digest, The Conners, The CW

SitcomsOnline Digest: CBS Sets After Midnight Premiere Details; Chico and the Man Arrives on Tubi

Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! It's another slow news week, but we're here with news about the new CBS late night series, a cast change for The Conners, and the debut of a classic 70s sitcom that hasn't been seen much in recent years on Tubi. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• After several months of delays due to the strikes, CBS finally has plans firmly in place, along with a premiere date that is just a little over a week away, for After Midnight, their replacement for The Late Late Show. (Deadline)
• Another cast member is leaving The Conners, and will not appear in the 6th season. (Deadline)
• Magnum, P.I. star Jay Hernandez doesn't like the way that the series ended this past week on NBC, and would like a movie to wrap things up. (TV Insider)
• David Soul of Starksy & Hutch has died. (SitcomsOnline)

WEEKLY PLANNER (JANUARY 6 - JANUARY 12)

• Chico and the Man has finally escaped from the vaults, and all four seasons are now available for streaming on Tubi.
• Prime Video now has the complete series of Northern Exposure, for the first time ever on digital streaming.
• Catchy Comedy has a binge of Love, American Style this weekend.
• Fox has season premieres of Grimsburg and The Great North on Sunday, though the timeslot premiere is still a month away.

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: After Midnight, Chico and the Man, Magnum, SitcomsOnline Digest, Starsky & Hutch, The Conners

SitcomsOnline Digest: Another Major Media Merger in the Works?; Digital Network Dabl Shifts Focus to Sitcoms

Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! We're heading into Christmas week, but surprisingly, we have lots of news, including another possible media merger (that we imagine will face a lot of scrutiny), news about a programming format change for a digital broadcast network, and more. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• It seems that there are talks to merge Warner Bros and Paramount, though it is likely to face a lot of scrutiny. (Deadline)
• In related news (and probably something that would be necessary if the two media companies were to merge), it looks like BET (and related assets, including VH1) may be up for sale again, with Byron Allen interested in purchasing. (Variety)
• If you liked Run the Burbs when it aired on The CW, you won't be losing the chance to see it, as Hulu has now picked it up in an unrelated deal. (Deadline)
• The reboots never stop, and this week, there are talks of one for The X-Files. (Deadline)
• The network has remained quiet and refused to comment on it, but a major schedule change is coming to digital TV network Dabl (will it even still be called Dabl?) next week, and it includes nothing but episodes of mostly old UPN (and a tiny bit of The WB/The CW) sitcoms, including The Parkers, Half & Half, Moesha, Girlfriends, One on One, Sister, Sister, and The Game. (Cord Cutters News)
• John Stamos is remembering Bob Saget as the anniversary of his death approaches. (Deadline)
• Since the approach that The CW was taking to air international sitcoms turned out to be a huge disaster, they're now turning to airing reruns of American broadcast network sitcoms that are still airing in primetime, or at least doing it in one case with The Conners. (SitcomsOnline)
• Three's Company is back on DVD again, and this time, it includes every episode of both spinoffs. (SitcomsOnline)

WEEKLY PLANNER (DECEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 29)

• Night Court begins season 2 in January, but if you can't wait for a new episode, NBC has a Christmas one tonight, along with a sneak preview of the new sitcom Extended Family.
• South Park: Not Suitable for Children is now streaming on Paramount+, and it really isn't suitable for children.
• Catchy Comedy has a "Christmas Carol" this weekend, with a binge of Carol Burnett and Friends.

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: BET, Dabl, Girlfriends, Half and Half, Moesha, One on One, Paramount, Run the Burbs, Sister Sister, SitcomsOnline Digest, The Conners, The Parkers, Warner Bros, X-Files

The Conners Reruns to Air on The CW Thursdays; Jo Koy to Host Golden Globes

Reruns of The Conners will be airing on The CW in...primetime. Yes, the ABC sitcom, which is entering its sixth season this February on ABC Wednesdays, will air from the beginning on The CW in a rarity. The CW will air The Conners Thursdays at 8:30pm & 9:00pm beginning January 4, sandwiched between Canadian comedies Son of a Critch and Children Ruin Everything to form a 2-hour comedy block on Thursdays. The Conners is also eligible to enter broadcast syndication later in 2024. The CW has also recently acquired reruns of the Hallmark drama Ride.

After a sudden turn of events, the Conners are forced to face the daily struggles of Life in Landford in a way they never have before. This iconic family grapples with parenthood, dating, an unexpected pregnancy, financial pressures, aging and in-laws in working-class America. Starring John Goodman, Laurie Metcalf, Sara Gilbert, Lecy Goranson, Michael Fishman, Emma Kenney, Ames McNamara, Jayden Rey, Jay R. Ferguson, Maya Lynne Robinson, Johnny Galecki and Katey Sagal.

The Golden Globes announced that premier stand-up comedian and actor Jo Koy will kick off award season as host of the highly-anticipated 81st Annual Golden GlobeE(R) Awards, airing live on CBS and streaming on Paramount+ on Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, at 8 PM, ET/5 PM, PT (live and on demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs). Koy will host the show for the first time, bringing his unique charm, energy and unpredictable humor to the three-hour broadcast. Koy is widely recognized as a leading stand-up comedian, actor and author. His uniquely relatable comedy pulls inspiration from his colorful family and has reached audiences of all kinds and resulted in sold-out arenas around the world. His recent "Funny Is Funny World Tour" broke sales records at some of the most prestigious venues around the world. Previously, he released five highly rated stand-up specials on Comedy Central and Netflix, including his most recent Netflix special, Live from the Los Angeles Forum.

Koy starred in the Universal Picture film Easter Sunday, based on his own experiences and stand-up comedy. He has also appeared in Disney's Haunted Mansion and voiced the character Bendo in Netflix's animated film Monkey King. He'll next be voicing the character of the Monkey King in the animated feature film, Tiger's Apprentice premiering on Paramount+ Feb. 2, 2024.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: ABC, Children Ruin Everything, Golden Globes, Son of a Critch, The Conners, The CW

ABC Winter 2024 Schedule; CBS Celebrates 98th Birthday of Dick Van Dyke

ABC announced its 2024 midseason premiere dates, featuring a robust lineup of high-stakes dramas, fan-favorite comedies, unparalleled unscripted series and groundbreaking news hours. Audiences will tune in starting Monday, Jan. 22, as Joey Graziadei begins his journey to find love when The Bachelor premieres, followed by an all-new eight-episode true-crime series of ABC News' 20/20 which explores some of the most shocking love crimes of all time. Fan-favorite comedies The Conners and Not Dead Yet debut Wednesday, Feb. 7, followed by a special one-hour premiere of the Emmy(R) Award-winning Abbott Elementary. Unscripted courtroom comedy series Judge Steve Harvey rounds out the Wednesday lineup.

The historic star-maker competition series American Idol premieres its seventh season on ABC Sunday, Feb. 18. ABC News' What Would You Do? makes its return to primetime, reintroducing the iconic hidden camera show to new and returning viewers. High-stakes dramas Will Trent, The Rookie and The Good Doctor return for new seasons on Tuesday, Feb. 20, while television's No. 1 broadcast drama 9-1-1 premieres Thursday, March 14, alongside the iconic dramas Grey's Anatomy and Station 19. Additional programming to be announced in the coming weeks. Shark Tank will continue to air original episodes on Fridays, as it has been doing all Fall. The previously announced series pickup of drama High Potential will now debut during the 2024-2025 broadcast season.

CBS presents Dick Van Dyke 98 Years of Magic, an entertainment special honoring and celebrating the legendary career of the iconic actor and performer for his 98th birthday, Thursday, Dec. 21 (9:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)*.

GRAMMY(R), Emmy(R) and Tony(R) Award winner Van Dyke is one of the most beloved and legendary stars. He has inspired generations of performers and will be honored for his incredible contributions to the arts and entertainment. The tribute will travel back in time to the iconic set of The Dick Van Dyke Show and feature dazzling music and dance spectacles, heartfelt performances, special guests and a magical holiday number. The two-hour tribute event will also showcase songs and archival footage from the best of his nearly full century career encompassing Mary Poppins, Bye Bye Birdie, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and more.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: 9-1-1, Abbott Elementary, ABC, CBS, Dick Van Dyke, Dick Van Dyke Show, Grey's Anatomy, Not Dead Yet, Station 19, The Conners, The Good Doctor, The Rookie

SitcomsOnline Digest: The Conners Getting Ready for Syndication; Game Shows a Hit for ABC

 Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! This week, we're hearing about a (sort of) long running broadcast sitcom heading to syndication, some Jeopardy! fall updates, and more. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• The Conners looks to be heading to syndication in 2024, which it is honestly kind of surprising that it is just now happening. (Variety)
• Jeopardy! plans for the fall are in jeopardy, so to speak, as the executive producer grapples with how to handle the WGA strike. (Deadline)
• Johnny Hardwick, the voice of Dale on King of the Hill (and who was also set to return for the reboot), has died at age 64. (TMZ)
• Jodie Sweetin isn't too thrilled that a new movie that she is starring in was sold to Great American Family. (TVLine)
• Game shows are proving to be very successful for ABC lately, perhaps more than they'd hoped. (Deadline)
• We told you a few weeks ago about how Suits has bizarrely become a huge deal in streaming media, setting records for viewership even, and it seems that the climb to the top hasn't even stopped. (Deadline)
• Quincy, M.E. is headed to FETV. (SitcomsOnline)

WEEKLY PLANNER (AUGUST 12 - AUGUST 18)

• Catchy Comedy, with a binge of The Honeymooners this weekend, including lost episodes.
• The final season of Billions premieres tomorrow on Showtime.
• The Upshaws returns for a fourth season on Netflix on Thursday.

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: Jeopardy, King of the Hill, Quincy ME, SitcomsOnline Digest, Suits, The Conners

SitcomsOnline Digest: First Week of Writers' Strike Already Sees Early Casualties; Fox Cancels Call Me Kat

Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! It's the first week of a writers' strike, so get ready for some disruptions to your TV viewing experiences while the negotiations go down (actually, many have already begun). We also have some renewal and cancellation news, including a rather surprising move of a Fox show heading to ABC (no, it's not an animated comedy). Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• Rumors of an impending strike had been floating for several months, so perhaps we shouldn't be totally surprised (though if you weren't following the story closely it may have been), but we now have another writers' strike that is going to shutdown production of new episodes of TV series. (CBS News)
• One of the first casualties of the writers strike is the remainder of the season for Saturday Night Live, for which all three episodes have been scrapped. (Screen Rant)
• Call Me Kat? No, you can call it cancelled, as the Fox sitcom has been cancelled after three seasons. (Variety)
• Deadline has a look at all the shows that have been cancelled in 2023, and it's not a short list either. (Deadline)
• This one is a little out of the blue: Fox has cancelled 9-1-1, but ABC has decided to pick it up. (Vibe)
• The Conners may be coming to an end after the upcoming sixth season, although even if it does, it has had a rather long and successful life for a reboot series. (Deadline)
• Dancing with the Stars is moving back to ABC. (SitcomsOnline)

WEEKLY PLANNER (MAY 6 - MAY 12)

• Last weekend, Catchy Comedy had a binge of Happy Days; this weekend, it is Laverne & Shirley.
• ABC, through their ABC News division, begins a four documentary part series celebrating game shows, with The Game Show Show, starting on Wednesday.
• The MTV Movie and TV Awards airs tomorrow night, but it'll be a little different due to the writers' strike.
• The final season of Children Ruin Everything debuts Friday on Roku.

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: 9-1-1, Call Me Kat, Dancing with the Stars, SitcomsOnline Digest, The Conners

SitcomsOnline Digest: CBS Planning New Late Night Strategy; Fawlty Towers Reboot in the Works

 Welcome to SitcomsOnline Digest! Once again, we have a lot going on, with the cancellation of a late night talk show, a new comedy starring Ted Danson, and more. Let's get going!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM SITCOMSONLINE.COM AND AROUND THE WEB

• Rather than find a replacement for James Corden, it seems CBS has decided to completely cancel The Late Late Show, and will replace it with a reboot of @midnight. (Hollywood Reporter)
• It looks like Mike Schur is trying another comedy with Ted Danson. (Deadline)
• Uncoupled is headed for a second season at Showtime (or is it Paramount+ with Showtime?), as Showtime is starting to head a different direction. (Deadline)
• You may be watching The Conners, but Roseanne is definitely not. (TVLine)
• For fans of British comedies, Fawlty Towers is apparently getting a reboot... somewhere (but not BBC). (Variety)
• Much like many of the actual reboots of series that we see on TV, the series Reboot did not survive to see a second season, even with attempts to find it a new home. (AV Club)
• Disney is at least considering selling Hulu. (Variety)
• Actor Charles Kimbrough has died, and much like when his wife (Beth Howland) died. (SitcomsOnline)

WEEKLY PLANNER (FEBRUARY 11 - FEBRUARY 17)

• Decades has something a little different for this weekend's binge, with Blondie movies, but all 26 episodes of the 1957 NBC sitcom starting Sunday at noon.
• Animal Control debuts Thursday on Fox.
• The Super Bowl may be on Sunday, but Antenna TV has an alternate option with a marathon of Designing Women.

Posted by Skees -- SitcomsOnline.com at 1:00 PM

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Labels: Fawlty Towers, Late Late Show, Reboot, SitcomsOnline Digest, The Conners, Uncoupled

ABC Midseason 2023 Schedule; Fox 2023 Midseason Schedule

ABC announced the 2022-2023 midseason premiere dates for two new drama series, a new comedy series and a new unscripted series as well as dates for fan-favorite returning series. A new Tuesday night block begins Tuesday, Jan. 3, with a crossover event when The Rookie returns on its new day at 8 p.m. EST, followed by The Rookie: Feds at 9 p.m. EST. Joining the night will be new crime drama Will Trent, starring Ramón Rodríguez in the title role and based on Karin Slaughter's wildly popular bestselling book series. Multiple Emmy(R) Award-winning comedy Abbott Elementary, starring and executive produced by Quinta Brunson, resumes class Wednesday, Jan. 4. Joining the series that night will be the winter premieres of Home Economics and Big Sky: Deadly Trails.

As previously announced, brand-new unscripted series The Parent Test will launch with a special series premiere following the highly anticipated debut of Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration on Thursday, Dec. 15. The series will have its regular time period debut on Thursday, Jan. 5, after the return of Celebrity Jeopardy! hosted by Mayim Bialik; and the night will be capped off with high-octane quiz show The Chase. The following night, the Sharks plunge back into the Tank to make more great deals when Shark Tank returns Friday, Jan. 6. Everyone's favorite TV family comedies, The Conners and The Goldbergs, return with all-new episodes Wednesday, Jan. 11.

The search for love continues on an all-new season of The Bachelor, where Zach Shallcross will begin his journey on Monday, Jan. 23, joined by the winter premiere of The Good Doctor. Freshman comedy Not Dead Yet, starring and executive produced by Gina Rodriguez and adapted from the work of bestselling author Alexandra Potter, will kick off its two-episode premiere event on Wednesday, Feb. 8, at 8:30 p.m. EST, then treat viewers to an all-new episode in its regular time period the same night at 9:30 p.m. EST. The series will be joined by the heartfelt premiere of A Million Little Things, which will begin its celebratory farewell season. Thrilling heist drama The Company You Keep, starring and executive produced by Milo Ventimiglia, debuts Sunday, Feb. 19, joining the return of America's Funniest Home Videos and iconic music competition series American Idol. And finally, Station 19 and Grey's Anatomy return with a winter premiere event on Thursday, Feb. 23, alongside the winter premiere of Alaska Daily, starring Hilary Swank as investigative reporter Eileen Fitzgerald. More dates will be announced at a later date including series such as The Wonder Years. View the full Winter dates schedule.


Fox is also announcing premiere dates for midseason including Fantasy Island (Monday, Jan. 2), Celebrity Name That Tune (Wednesday, Jan. 11), 9-1-1: Lone Star (Tuesday, Jan. 17), Next Level Chef (Sunday, Feb. 12) and Animal Control (Thursday, Feb. 16), joining Fall series making their Winter premieres, The Resident (Tuesday, Jan. 3), Hell's Kitchen (Thursday, Jan. 5), Welcome to Flatch (Thursday, Jan. 5) and Call Me Kat (Thursday, Jan. 5). As previously announced, all-new unscripted series Special Forces: World's Toughest Test will debut with a special two-hour event (Wednesday, Jan. 4), Alert will debut Sunday, Jan. 8 after NFL on Fox, and all-new crime thriller Accused will premiere Sunday, Jan. 22.

This winter, Fox beats the cold with a vacation to Fantasy Island, which returns for its second season on Monday, Jan. 2 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT). The series stars Roselyn Sánchez, Kiara Barnes and John Gabriel Rodriquez. Guest stars in Season Two include Teri Hatcher and James Denton in a Desperate Housewives reunion, which also features Andy Richter (Conan); Rachael Harris (Lucifer) and Cheryl Hines (I Can See Your Voice); Frankie J. Alvarez (Looking), Jai Rodriguez (Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, Uncoupled) and Izzy Diaz (Broke); singer/actress Marie Osmond, Kyla Pratt (Call Me Kat), Lynn Whitfield (Greenleaf) and Jason Priestley (BH90210); and Alexa Mansour (The Walking Dead: World Beyond), who will recur. From executive producers Jamie Foxx and John Eisendrath, all-new missing persons drama Alert debuts Sunday, Jan. 8 after NFL on Fox (8:00-9:00 PM ET/5:00-6:00 PM PT live to all time zones), followed by its time period premiere Monday, Jan. 9 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT).

As previously announced, Fox's ultimate celebrity social experiment, Special Forces: World's Toughest Test, will make its series premiere, a two-hour special event, Wednesday, Jan. 4 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT). The 16 celebrity recruits are Danny Amendola, Mel B, Hannah Brown, Tyler Florence, Kate Gosselin, Dwight Howard, Montell Jordan, Gus Kenworthy, Nastia Liukin, Carli Lloyd, Beverley Mitchell, Kenya Moore, Mike Piazza, Dr. Drew Pinsky, Anthony Scaramucci and Jamie Lynn Spears. Beloved one-hour musical game show Celebrity Name That Tune returns for Season Three on Wednesday, Jan. 11 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT), followed by the time period premiere of Special Forces: World's Toughest Test (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT). Celebrity Name That Tune will feature competitions with Olympians, former WNBA, NBA and NFL athletes, WWE wrestlers, Emmy-nominated actors, Grammy nominated musicians, Broadway performers, former American Idol, and Glee stars as well as former Housewives, talk show hosts, comedians and more. Hit drama series 9-1-1: Lone Star, starring Rob Lowe and Gina Torres, is back for all-new rescues beginning Tuesday, Jan. 17 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT). 9-1-1: As previously announced, the all-new crime thriller Accused, from Emmy Award-winning producer Howard Gordon, makes its debut Sunday, Jan. 22, followed by its time period premiere Tuesday, Jan. 24 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT).

Gordon Ramsay's Next Level Chef returns for Season Two on Sunday, Feb. 12, following Super Bowl LVII. The series will have its time period premiere Thursday, Feb. 16 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT). The all-new single-camera workplace comedy, Animal Control, starring Emmy Award nominee Joel McHale (Community), will premiere Thursday, Feb. 16 (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT), following the time period premiere of Next Level Chef. Please note, 9-1-1 and The Masked Singer will return this spring and additional schedule details to be announced. View the full Winter dates schedule.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: 9-1-1, Abbott Elementary, ABC, Animal Control, Fantasy Island, Fox, Grey's Anatomy, Home Economics, Jeopardy, Not Dead Yet, Shark Tank, Station 19, The Bachelor, The Conners, The Goldbergs, The Rookie

ABC Holiday Specials 2022 Schedule; Remembering Sitcom Star Leslie Jordan of Hearts Afire, Will & Grace and Call Me Kat

ABC announced its holiday programming in anticipation of the most wonderful time of the year, which includes a lineup filled with merriment, beloved classics and uplifting new specials. Two dazzling specials featuring some of the biggest names in music will bring melodies in December: A Very Backstreet Christmas celebrates the holidays with The Backstreet Boys, and Finding Harmony is an uplifting story featuring EGOT winner John Legend and David Brown, founder of the Columbus-based Harmony Project in Ohio. Disney will kick off its 100th anniversary celebration during Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2023.

More highlights include Disney's new stop-motion holiday special, Mickey Saves Christmas; the return of CMA Country Christmas from Nashville; holiday-themed episodes of ABC's favorite comedies and game shows; and Wonderful World of Disney movies that families can enjoy, including a special airing of Home Alone on Christmas Eve and the broadcast premiere of Frozen II. ABC News is also set to air Love Actually: 20 Years Later - A Diane Sawyer/ABC News Special and The Year: 2022. A magical new season of The Great Christmas Light Fight also returns, along with news of a season 11 pickup for 2023. Additional movies, musicals and specials round out the holiday season on ABC - see the full lineup.

Emmy-winning actor, comedian, writer and singer Leslie Jordan, who starred as Lonnie Garr on Hearts Afire, as Beverley Leslie on Will & Grace and as Phil on Call Me Kat, has died. He died on October 24 after his car hit the side of a building at Cahuenga Boulevard and Romaine Street in Hollywood. He was believed to have experienced a medical episode that led to the crash. Mr. Jordan was 67.

Jordan's first sitcom starring role was as meddlesome mailman Truman Fipps on the short-lived 1989 CBS sitcom The People Next Door. The series also starred Jeffrey Jones, Mary Gross, Chance Quinn, Jaclyn Bernstein and Christina Pickles.

He played Emmet Lefebvre on the short-lived 1991 Fox sitcom Top of the Heap. Emmet Lefebre is the diminutive security guard at the Rolling Hills Country Club outside Chicago. The Married with Children spin-off also starred Joseph Bologna, Matt LeBlanc, Joey Lauren Adams and Rita Moreno.

Jordan starred as Lonnie Garr in 27 episodes of the CBS sitcom Hearts Afire from 1993 to 1995. Lonnie Garr is a big-talking but insecure printer at The Daily Beacon paper. The cast included John Ritter, Markie Post, Billy Bob Thornton, Justin Burnette (1992-1994), J. Skylar Testa (1994-1995), Clark Duke, Wendie Jo Sperber (1992-1993), Beth Broderick (1992-1993), George Gaynes (1992-1993), Edward Asner (1992-1993) and Conchata Ferrell (1993-1995).

He had a recurring role as Beverley Leslie in 17 episodes of the NBC sitcom Will & Grace from 2001 to 2006 and 2017 to 2020. Beverley Leslie is Karen Walker's (Megan Mullally) pretentious, sexually ambiguous rival. Jordan won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series at the 58th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards in 2006. The cast included Eric McCormack, Debra Messing and Sean Hayes.

Jordan starred as Sidney "Sid" Delacroix on the 2018-2019 Fox sitcom The Cool Kids. The series follows three male residents of the Shady Meadows Retirement Community who are forced to adapt to the arrival of a new, rebellious female occupant. It also starred David Alan Grier, Martin Mull and Vicki Lawrence.

He was starring as Phil on the Fox sitcom Call Me Kat, which is currently in its third season. Phil is a newly single gay man who works as the head baker at Kat's (Mayim Bialik) café. The cast includes Swoosie Kurtz, Kyla Pratt, Julian Grant, Cheyenne Jackson and Christopher Rivas.

Some of his sitcom guest appearances included Night Court, Annie McGuire, Murphy Brown, Newhart, Sugar and Spice, American Dreamer, Babes, Perfect Strangers, The New WKRP in Cincinnati, Getting By, Nurses, Coach, Weird Science, Wings, Arli$$, Ellen, Dharma & Greg, Caroline in the City, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Reba, George Lopez, Shake It Up, The Game, The Neighbors, Raising Hope, The Exes, Baby Daddy, K.C. Undercover and Life in Pieces.

Jordan starred as Asst. Public Defender Clifford Sizemore on the NBC police drama Reasonable Doubts from 1992 to 1993. He played Lemar Samuels on the 1992-1993 CBS police drama Bodies of Evidence. He played Dr. Benjamin Harris in two episodes of Ally McBeal and five episodes of Boston Public. In 2005, he played Bernard Ferrion in five episodes of Boston Legal. He had a recurring role as Jesse Jo in five episodes of Hidden Palms in 2007. He played several characters in recurring roles in the American Horror Story franchise.

Some of his drama guest appearances included The Fall Guy, The Wizard, Midnight Caller, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Charlie Grace, Star Trek: Voyager, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, The Pretender, Pacific Blue, Buddy Faro, Martial Law, Any Day Now, Nash Bridges, Monk, Ugly Betty, Privileged, Desperate Housewives and Fantasy Island (2021).

Mr. Jordan was a beloved actor, comedian and Instagram sensation. He made everything he appeared in much better. He was always a big scene stealer. We thank him for the many laughs and entertainment that he brought us. He will be greatly missed.

Share your memories on our Call Me Kat message board. View photos in our galleries.

Posted by Pavan -- SitcomsOnline.com at 12:00 PM

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Labels: Abbott Elementary, ABC, Call Me Kat, Fox, Hearts Afire, Home Economics, Obits, The Conners, The Goldbergs, Will & Grace