With September coming to an end, television networks have begun premiering their new primetime line-ups for the new season.
Along with the return of old favorites are a slew of new dramas, comedies, spin-offs, and even a musical promising to be quite “gleeful” (check out ABC’s new teen-drama, “Glee”).
However, four programs seem to show promise for the 2009-2010 season and are worthy of a viewing and maybe even a DVR recording:
NCIS: LOS ANGELES, Tuesdays at 9PM on CBS
Spin-offs seem to be the new “it” thing for networks. Naturally, CBS is no stranger to the world of spin-offs having produced several programs spun from its powerhouse “CSI” franchise. CBS has now set its sights on its hit “NCIS” and have cast LL Cool J and Chris O’Donnell as the protagonists. With an ethnically diverse cast and an Academy Award winner in tow, the new show began last Tuesday and premiered to strong ratings.
DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES, Sundays at 9PM on ABC
After a rather lackluster fifth season and the death of a main character, the award-winning primetime soap is bringing back the scandalous drama that made it a sure fire hit back in 2004. “Desperate Housewives” follows the lives of five suburban housewives who deal with blackmail, infidelity, and the occasional convict locked in the basement. This season, Lynette (Felicity Huffman) is pregnant…again. Gabrielle (Eva Longoria-Parker) has her hands full with a rambunctious niece. Bree (Marcia Cross) is cheating on her husband while Susan (Teri Hatcher) and Katherine (Dana Delaney) continue to battle for Mike’s affections. Not juicy enough? Enter mysterious newcomer Angie Bolen portrayed by Emmy award winner Drea De Matteo of “The Sopranos” fame.
PRIVATE PRACTICE, Thursdays at 10PM on ABC
The Writers Guild of America strike of 2007 cut the first season of the “Grey’s Anatomy” spin-off short. However, the writers more than made up for it in its sophomore season with stronger storylines and highly concentrated drama. This season will begin by answering a jaw dropping cliffhanger – will Violet (Amy Brenneman) live after having her baby cut from her stomach by one of her psychotic patients? Probably. Other storylines include Addison (Kate Walsh) looking for love and Cooper (Paul Adelstein) continuing to deal with Charlotte’s (KaDee Strickland) nonsense. Expect tension between Sam (Taye Diggs) and Naomi (four time Tony award winner Audra McDonald) when she leaves the practice for its competitor.