So, Monday marks the premier of Chuck to NBC, and the return of How I Met Your Mother, The Big Bang Theory and Gossip Girl after a week hiatus. Toss in House at its new time slot, and 8 on Monday night is starting to look pretty full.

Now I'm guessing most of you don't watch as much TV as I do, but I'm still seeing some conflicts here.

It'd be one thing if these shows all targeted different audiences, but there's a lot of cross over appeal with these shows:

Courtesy of wordpress.com

Courtesy of iofferphoto.com

- Chuck and Big Bang Theory: Geeks in general

Courtesy of wordpress.com

- How I Met Your Mother and Chuck: Those who like romantic comedy

Courtesy of sidereel.com

- House and any other show really: Everybody watches House

Courtesy of gossipgirlchat.com

- Gossip Girl and Chuck: Josh Schwartz fans (the guy who made these shows and The OC)

Thanks to the internet, however, there is a solution. Excluding House, all of these shows are posted on their networks Web site and/or HULU the day after they air. Now you can waste those four hours of your life, without having to get Tivo!

- Nick

American Idol finished up its final rounds of auditions this week with three episodes in Jacksonville, Fla.; Salt Lake City, Utah; New York City and Puerto Rico. Sadly, I had an assignment during the third night (stupid school getting in the way of my TV time!) and my ancient VHS recorder taped fuzz instead of the show (I think it's time to invest in DVR...). Nevertheless, I did catch the first two nights. Here's part three of the American Idol Audition Awards:

Best Waiting Room Moment:

When contestant Darin Darnell met a blonde contestant in the waiting room named Naomi, he wondered if she got confused with Naomi Campbell, and then mouthed to the camera, "But she's not black."

Best Quote:

When George Ramirez (the oddball kid with the beard in Jacksonville) was asked by the judges where he saw himself in the future, instead of in Hollywood making a record, he said he'd like to be in a simple house with nice floors--preferably nice marble floors.

Worst Use of ESP:

Salt Lake City contestant Tara Mathews (The girl with the thigh highs) claimed to have ESP "pretty strong," but apparently couldn't use it to see her own rejection. After blowing past Ryan Seacrest while leaving the audition, she flipped the cameraman the bird, telling him to "blur it out," to which Seacrest replied, "I'm no mind reader, but I think she's trying to send a message."

Oddest Gimmick:

Chris Kirkham in Salt Lake City brought along a friend in a big, pink bunny costume and not only wore a shirt with a cartoon image of Simon's head on it, but also carried the image in on a popsicle stick.

Am I Crazy...

Or did I see a glimpse of Randy getting out of the car in Utah wearing leopard-print boots?!?

Most Promising Auditions:

5. Jasmine Murray ("Big Girl's Don't Cry"--Jacksonville) --She was a little nasally, but her voice and image were cute and marketable.

4. Annemarie Boskovich ("Bubbly"--Jacksonville) --The judges told her to go find a new look before auditioning again, but I think she always had the goods. Annemarie was a sweet girl with a memorable voice.

3. T.K. Hash ("Imagine"--Jacksonville)--This was a great song choice and T.K. delivered it with a strong, confident voice, while still managing not to appear cocky.

2. Megan Corkrey ("Can't Help Loving That Man of Mine"--Salt Lake City)--She had a unique look and retro vibe that reminded me a lot of what artists like Duffy and Adele are doing right now. Simon said Megan was one of his favorite auditions this season.

1. Frankie Jordan ("You Know That I'm No Good"--Salt Lake City)--Doesn't her name just sound like it would be great on an album? Frankie not only sounds like Amy Winehouse, but looks a bit like her to (pre-scary weight loss and drug overdoses). I'm banking on Frankie being the one to watch this season

That's it for auditions. I'll catch you guys next week in Hollywood!

--Kristen

The new cast of the Amazing Race is the most colorful yet! We've got stuntmen brothers, flight attendants, and beautiful former NFL cheerleaders (if this doesn't want to make you watch, I don't know what will.) This season, audiences will be witnessing young dating couples going head to head with couples married for years. Who will come out on top? Just tune in and find out. The 14th season of the Emmy-winning competition series returns on Sunday, February 15 at 8 p.m. This season the cast members will endure 40,000 miles through nine countries in just 22 days. As always, the 11 teams will be competing for the million dollar prize. Phil Keoghan will be returning as host there to greet the teams.

The Amazing Race teams:

Names: Mark and Michael Munoz

Ages: 48, 51

Occupations: Stuntman/jockey, stuntman/actor

Hometown: Los Angeles, Maui

Relationship: Brothers

Names: Tammy and Victor Jih

Ages: 26, 35

Occupations: Lawyers

Hometown: San Francisco, Los Angeles

Relationship: Siblings

Miscellaneous: Both have degrees from Harvard

Names: Lakisha and Jennifer Hoffman

Ages: 28, 24

Occupations: Program coordinator, marketing assistant

Hometown: Bronx, NY; Louisville, KY

Relationship: Sisters

Names: Christie Volkmer and Jodi Wincheski

Ages: 37, 40

Occupations: Flight attendants

Hometown: Choctaw, OK; Houston, TX

Relationship: Friends/co-workers

Names: Brad and Victoria Hunt

Ages: 52, 47

Occupations: Distribution dispatcher, tax manager

Hometown: Columbus, Ohio

Relationship: Married for nine years

Names: Mel and Mike White

Ages: 68, 38

Occupations: Writer/clergyman; Writer, producer and actor

Hometown: Lynchburg, VA; Santa Monica, CA

Relationship: Father and son

Miscellaneous: Mel White came out to his family when his son was only 11. Mike is a screenwriter for films such as "Nacho Libre" and "School of Rock," in which he costarred with Jack Black.

Names: Lynda and Steve Cole

Ages: 52, 43

Occupations: Customer service supervisor, carpenter

Hometown: Martinsville, VA

Relationship: Married

Miscellaneous: Married 17 years

Names: Jennifer Hopka and Preston McCamy

Ages: 26, 28

Occupations: Student, Software engineer

Hometown: Columbia, SC

Relationship: Dating

Miscellaneous: She's ready to get engaged. He's not.

Names: Amanda Blackledge and Kris Klicka

Ages: 23, 24

Occupations: Student, sales rep

Hometown: San Diego, CA

Relationship: Dating

Names: Margie and Luke Adams

Ages: 51, 23

Occupations: Clinical research associate, college grad

Hometown: Denver, CO

Relationship: Mother and son

Miscellaneous: Luke has been deaf since he was 2 years old

Names: Cara Rosenthal and Jaime Edmondson

Ages: 26, 29

Occupations: Law student, former police officer

Hometown: Boca Raton, FL; Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Relationship Former NFL cheerleaders for the Miami Dolphins

-Vanessa

Who thought they could scrounge up another location for The Real World? Well someone came up with the idea of the notorious party spot -- Cancun, Mexico. This will be the show's 22nd season, and is sure to be filled with drama, fighting, and even more questions of sexuality. The housemates will be working with spring break resource site, studentcity.com, which serves as a guide for ready-to-party college students. Part of their job description is "possibly bailing someone out of a Mexican jail." That should be quite entertaining. Cancun seems like a nice change from the current season in Brooklyn, which is a much harsher environment. The sandy beaches and sunbathing hotties of Cancun should attract a substantial audience, and keep The Real World as one of MTV's top-rated shows.

-Vanessa

Week two of American Idol: Season 8 saw auditions in San Francisco and Louisville, Kentucky. Here are the best and worst of the week:

"It was like you were drunk. I'm not talking one or two bottles; it was like a crate."

"Imagine 22 horses and donkey," to Tiffany Shedd, that creepy blonde chick from Wednesday night opening.

Favorite Paula Moment:

The old stand-by--"I don't think this is the right competition for you." And I am STILL loving those glasses!

Most WTF moment:

The little montages of great singers they slapped together (some were only shown celebrating with their tickets). I'm so sick of the bad auditions--show me the people who are actually going to be in this for the long haul!

Craziest Audition:

Tatiana Del Tora on San Francisco night--not the worst singer in the world, but that dress and that WACKY, WACKY laugh made me super uncomfortable, not to mention the fact that when one of the judges told her she looked "naughty," she responded with a "thank you"...

Mark Mudd in Kentucky. He said he's almost died five times and threatened the judges to "watch out."

Biggest Loser:

Dean-Anthony Bradford, better known as "The Coat Guy"--seriously, what was up with that crazy plaid jacket thing??? He did, however, deliver a double whammy of quotes during his audition. I don't know which was creepier: his ascertain that the plaid abomination was "like the jacket of life" or his response to Simon's criticism of his supposedly natural hair color--"the carpet matches the drapes." EWWWW!

Oh-Snap! Moment:

When Akilah Askew-Gohlson (whom Simon affectionately referred to as Ah-kill-uh and got her singing information off of the internet) told Paula that she only had one hit song out in the 80s when she was a kid. Granted, Paula Abdul is not the most talented singer out there, but "Straight Up" is a damn good song and I'm thinking it took a bit more than that to get behind that judges table. I would have slapped her.

My New Best Friend:

Can I just say again how much I love Kara? I didn't realize just how incompetent the other three judges were until this season. I agree with just about everything she says and she seems to restore the sanity to the judging booth. Maybe good singers will get some real praise during the finals this year (Carly Smithson, cough cough).

Top Ten Most Promising Auditions:

7-10.)A combination of Kris Allen, Felicia Barton, Ryan Johnson and Shera Lawrence,

who all sounded good in the two-second clips Idol so kindly showed us. Keep an eye open for them.

6.) Matt Giraud ("I Don't Wanna Be"--Kentucky)--sang a little too fast, but had an interesting sound. I didn't necessarily see it, but Simon said Matt reminded him of Elliot in season five (one of my all-time faves).

5.) Brent Keith Smith ("Can't Get Enough of Your Love"--Kentucky)--Isn't it about time this competition had a male country singer with a chance of actually making a record?

4.) Laneshe Young (sang her own song--Kentucky)--for someone who has gone through so much in life, this girl and her family were some of the most polite people ever on this show. Her voice was current and fresh, not to mention the fact that she writes her own music.

3.) Alexis Grace ("Dr. Feelgood"--Kentucky)--she has a huge voice for such a little person and I can really see her holding her own on stage. Alexis also had a little daughter and military fiancé, which will totally get her some sympathy fans.

2.) Joanna Pacitti ("We Belong"--Kentucky)--She had a strong, controlled voice and has been previously signed, proving she has determination.

1.) Kai Kalama (SF)--Simon said he had "the personality of a ship singer" but I really loved this guy. He had the sob story with his sick mother and overall had a nice, deep and controlled voice. Kai seemed like a sweetie and one to watch.

-Krsiten

With TV ratings down across the board, several shows have been or are in danger of being axed. One of these victims is the amazing Pushing Daisies which was just to intelligent for the average viewer to "get". In that vein, here are "5 Shows the Networks Were Idiots to Cancel".

5. The OC

Axed because...Ratings were down, way down, from previous seasons, and when it comes to FOX shows, that's the only thing they care about.

What I think: I don't care if Marissa died and that the show had jumped a few sharks, towards the end of the fourth (last) season, the show was getting back to its roots. As long as Adam Broody and Rachel Bilson were on the show, I would have watched regardless of plot.

Instead watch: The OC creator Josh Schwartz's two other shows, Gossip Girl for your teen drama and Chuck for the lovable smart-mouth nerd with a sexy love interest (heck, Chuck even dated a character played by Rachel Bilson for awhile).

4. Veronica Mars

Axed because...Ratings, again. This time the CW dangled the hope of a fourth season in front of viewers before pulling it like the cruel sadists they truly are.

What I think: Veronica Mars was one of the most creative shows on television. The show was a classic noir detective serial disguised as a high school drama. The main characters were some of the most three dimensional in the genre, and the story-lines where as "real" as anything you'd find in CSI or Law and Order, if not more so.

Instead watch: If you like quirky characters solving murders with some humor thrown in, Bones is for you. If you want a genius "private eye" (I use the term loosely) solving a myriad of different crimes with a father mentor who's also a former officer, check out Psych.

3. Firefly

Axed because...Once again FOX cared more about ratings than quality.

What I think: This was one of the best shows to ever air on television. Just as Veronica Mars reinvented the detective series, Firefly was at its heart a western. More than that, it was an existential drama that creator Joss Whedon pitched as "nine people staring into the blackness of space and seeing nine different things." This was a show that transcended its sci-fi roots.

Instead watch: You're best bet would be the critically acclaimed Battlestar Galactica, another character drama masquerading as a space opera. Also, you might check out Joss Whedon's new Dollhouse, when it premiers next month.

2. Arrested Development

Axed because...it was just too awesome. Really though, it was those bastards over at FOX again.

What I think: I really don't think there's a single person who has seen Arrested Development who thinks it should have been canceled. Unfortunately FOX shuffled the show to so many time-slots, it was never able to gain a strong enough viewer base. This was probably the funniest "sitcom" to air in recent history. It's psuedo-documentary style played with meta-narrative, making the characters almost self-aware.

Instead watch: There are a few shows that live up to Arrested Development, and none that are truly analogous. I would recommend It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia if you identified with the mostly morally bankrupt Bluths.

1. Freaks and Geeks

Axed because...NBC aired the series out of order, preempted episodes without warning, and played it at odd hours when no one watches TV.

What I think: Judd Apatow is nearly a household name thanks to his highly successful run of comedy films, including Superbad and Knocked Up, but Freaks and Geeks is, in my humble opinion, his greatest work. Set in early 80s Michigan, this show captured the reality of High School better than any other show I've seen. There were no outrageous twists and no drama beyond the believable. The two parallel story-lines of "freak" Lindsey Weir and "geek" Sam Weir strike close to home. The DVD of the first (only) season is one of the best selling box sets, a tribute to the show's influence.

Instead watch: I can't name a single show on the air anything like Freaks and Geeks. My recommendation is to get or rent the DVD's and see what you're missing.

- Nick out

The Jonas hotties are becoming the next Beatles or Monkees? Slightly impossible in my eyes, but according to Yahoo! news, the three teen idols are starring in a Disney Channel series inspired by the Beatles' movies and the American made-for-TV group the Monkees. The JoBros will appear as themselves in the comedy series Jonas, premiering on Disney in May. The brothers play members of a popular band trying to live normal lives at a regular school despite the shrieking throng of young fans that worship their every move (sounds a little Hannah Montana-ish, so fans of Miley are sure to like this new show). There is a plus to this show, however! We get to see the most adorable Jonas of all, little brother Frankie, 8. The "bonus Jonas" plays the trio's little brother in the series.

Anyway, I guess the success of Camp Rock spurred the brothers' urge to star in their own show. The TV movie was one of Disney's most successful, debuting with over 100 million viewers worldwide. However, even though the JoBros were given the best new artist award, a prize that the Beatles won in 1964, I still can't picture them being as successful and adored as the Beatles. Sure the Jonas Brothers have tons of little girls throwing themselves at the trio's feet; the Beatles just have something more. But, who knows? Only time will tell.

-Vanessa

Well looks like Monday nights are working out nicely for Dr. House, and he's popping pain medication as often as ever. The show starts off with a little case of attempted carbon monoxide poisoning, but the problem is deeper than that. Chronic pain all over the body, along with depression causes the patient to attempt suicide. However, when House and his team of experts get on the case, the patient takes a turn for the worse as usual. It wouldn't be an episode of House if the patient was cured ten minutes into the show. After a few failed attempts to figure out what the diagnosis was, House discovers the patient blew air into his IV attempting to kill himself once again, all while his wife and son learn that their husband and father doesn't want to live. Not the Father of Year, but there seems to be some other motive behind this man's madness.

Meanwhile, a little hope comes midway through the episode when Dr. Cuddy's foster parent inspection goes very well, despite the surprise visit. Immediately following this good news, comes a surprise from the suicidal patient's son. The boy tries and fails to distract the doctors while his father attempts to down a bottle of rubbing alcohol. House somehow immediately knows what is happening, and stops the patient.

House then comes up with the seemingly absurd idea of taking the patient off the drugs, thinking they are the cause of his pain. Dr. Foreman believes that House is crazy, but that doesn't stop him. This doesn't work, but now the patient's wife is hoping for husband's death as well. It looks like there is no hope at this point, and it is so close to the end of the episode! What will House do now?!

As House is bribing the plumber to lie on his insurance claim at home (typical House), he has an epiphany. He figures out that the patient has Epilepsy, a very treatable disease. Now, everyone is all smiles in the hospital; a happy ending. Dr. Cameron even gets a job offer from Dr. Cuddy! Looks like House is getting a new babysitter.

This premiere has its fair share of twists, typical of House, and the bickering of the doctor and his team lends some comic relief to the otherwise serious episode.

-Vanessa

So, its been a pretty crazy week for the world of television. Between cancellations, new shows and cast changes, networks are doing everything they can to make up for a disappointing fall season.

So, here are my "10 Things You Might Care About"

1. Everyone's favorite HR representative should be returning to The Office before the end of the season. Amy Ryan who plays Holly Flax is in discussions to return, probably for the season finale, and potentially stay on for a longer run. Might Michael finally find love?

2. House is finally going to get laid. According to Lisa Edelstein, better known as "Cuddy" she and House are going to be getting hot and heavy before the season ends.

3. As if there isn't enough drama going on in Gossip Girl, a spin-off has been green lit, following the adventures of a much younger Lily Bass and set in the 80s. This is either going to be awesome, horrifying, or awesomely horrifying (personally, I'm hoping for the third option).

4. In the same vein, an NCIS spin-off has been green-lit. There is no word yet as to the premise of the show, or if any characters will transfer over. Since NCIS is a spin-off of JAG, I'm worried that CBS will continue to branch off new shows ad nauseum until they've run out of military crime divisions.

5. Fox has officially axed Prison Break citing that the series premise has played out. I think the premise played out when they broke out of prison in season 1, but what do I know?

6. On the same note, CBS has decided not to renew Swingtown. The fact that you probably have never heard of this show is why it's being canceled. With nearly non-existent ratings viewers will have to turn to the new Gossip Girl spin-off to get their retro-drama fix.

7. The subject of Amy Poehler's new NBC comedy has finally been revealed. Filmed mockumentary style, Poehler will play a local Indiana Parks and Recreation officer with delusions of grandeur. Rashida Jones will also be staring, which means I'll be watching, regardless of how good the show is.

8. While Amy Poehler's project is no longer going to be an Office spin-off, The Office executive producer Greg Daniels says he's still looking to start a new project. Locations being considered for the new show include another local branch or the corporate office.

9. Sad news for fans of Monk. Tony Shalhoub has said he will no longer be playing the title character of the USA detective comedy. Instead of attempting to replace the irreplaceable Shalhoub, the show will be ending after this season. The bright side is, viewers can be confident that Monk is close to solving his wife's murder.

10. Finally, William Petersen's Gil Grissom, the last original character on the long-running CSI, left the show last night after a 9 season run. Looking to get back to his acting roots, Peterson left the show to pursue more small roles in state productions. Unlike most stage actors, however, he will have several substantial checks from CBS to fall back on.

Also, something I'd like to mention, although not on the list since I'm sure no one else cares, Laura Prepton (Donna from That 70s Show) will be appearing for a five episode run on How I Met Your Mother. This is just one of the shows I'll be discussing next week on, "The 5 Shows You Should Be Watching (But Don't)"

Til then - Nick out.

"'It's CSI -- they pay me a lot of money, and I don't have to work very hard." - William Petersen

Rumors have been circulating about a possible Gossip Girl spin-off for a while, but it looks like it's actually going to happen.

It was originally speculated that a spin-off might follow Jenny Humphrey, since her character in the book series launched a book spin-off about Jenny's adventures in boarding school. While it would have been pretty awesome to get the whiney, raccoon-eyed brat off the show, there was no WAY I would have watched a new show centered on her.

Instead, creator/executive producer Josh Schwartz is going ahead with a non-book related prequel focusing on the early relationship between Serena's mom Lily Van der Woodsen and Dan and Jenny's dad Rufus Humphrey in 1980s LA. No wonder there's been so much crazy Lily/Rufus drama in the last few episodes!

I think this project has the potential to be really, really cool. We know that Schwartz has a knack for teenage drama in California (R.I.P. O.C. L), and can you imagine the awesome 80s fashion and music the GG team will find for us?! Not to mention that Lily and Rufus are the most interesting characters outside of Chuck and Blair. I've always been curious about Lily's rebellious affair with a dashing, less financially secure rocker, especially since we know how it will eventually turn out. And I would bet a LOT that the guy they get to play young Rufus will be quite the heartthrob.

Sometimes spin-offs can mess with magic of the original programs, but I say bring it on CW. Whenever this airs, I will totally be there.

--Kristen

American Idol premiered this week with a two-night, four-hour premiere. I'm not gonna lie--I was PSYCHED! Eight seasons in, I am still a total American Idol dork and it's the one (or two or three) time a week where I don't answer my phone and refuse to do any work while I'm watching. In honor of the first two rounds of auditions, here are my early audition awards:

Best Simon Quote:

A three way tie between--

3)When Paula told a contestant he sounded like Joe Cocker, Simon responded with: "I would say cocker spaniel."

2)"It sounded like a cat jumping off the Empire State Building."

1)When Paula told a contestant he needed to join a band and experience the blood, sweet and tears to gain experience, Simon sarcastically asked, "How do you think 'Straight Up' was written?"

Paula's Most Clueless Moment:

She sincerely told a deep-voiced contestant that he could do "voiceover work for movies with monsters in them" as an alternative career. Good idea, Paula. I'm sure that's what he's always dreamed of doing.

Most Cringe-Worthy Moment:

Kansas City's Michael Nicewonder. Despite the pretty awesome name, this guy really made me feel uncomfortable inside. I have no problem with the judges making fun of the ego-bloated, awful singers, but I'm worried about what the comments could do to a guy with this kind of mental state. From the hair, to the "medal", to his odd song about is mother, it was all a little too much for me.

Best Change:

The addition of Kara DioGuardi. I was a little wary of the fourth judge idea, but I have found myself REALLY liking her. She's smart, fresh and knows what she's talking about. I also like that she's a sharp female opinion (since we all know that Paula's doesn't really count). Kara says the constructive things that Simon is known for without being snotty.

Schnazziest costume change:

Paula's glasses at the Arizona auditions. They almost made her look intelligent. Almost.

Biggest Surprise:

The skanky bikini girl wasn't really that bad. Seriously!! I don't expect her to crack the top 12, but she was much better than I anticipated and I too would have given her a chance in Hollywood

Most WTF Audition:

Arizona contestant Michael Gurr. His whiney, nasally voice coupled with the constipated facial features really had me scratching my head.

Top Ten Most Promising Auditions:

10.) J. B. Afhua (Night One)--this guy had a great voice but he reminded me a little too much of last season's David Hernandez. I hope he can overcome the boring and stand out.

9.) Alex Wagner-Trugman (Night One)--he missed a Spanish test to audition, made the wackiest faces and was a total dork, but there was something very witty and deadpan about him that makes me want to see him prove Simon wrong.

8.) Scott McIntyre (Night One)--The guy is blind and graduated college at 19. His voice was controlled and felt like a softer version of Josh Groban, and although I think his performance needed a bit more pizzazz, he was memorable.

7.) Michael Castro (Night Two)--I liked Jason Castro last season and his brother is basically the same guy with pink hair. For some reason, I think the Castro brothers' "whatever" attitudes are oddly refreshing and I can see Michael using Jason's success to get far.

6.) Anoop Desai (Night Two)--Anoop had a surprisingly soulful voice, and while Simon called him "geeky," I think that geek factor is part of his charm.

5.) Deanna Brown (Night One)--her rendition of "Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay" was genuine and controlled. She sounded like a mix between Dolly Parton and Amanda Overmyer from last season.

4.) Ashley Anderson (Night Two)--She may have messed up the words to a song Simon helped write, but she definitely has a strong voice that I can see carrying her through Hollywood.

3.) Danny Gokey (Night Two)--He reminds me a lot of season five's Elliot Yamin. He was kind of dorky, kind of soulful, and the tragic loss of his wife bought him a sympathy vote.

2.) Lil Rounds (Night Two)--Classy and humble with a tragic back story, she sounds like a cross between Fantasia and Paris Bennett from season five.

1.) Jessica Paige Ferney (Night Two)--Sounded a bit like Carrie Underwood and has that ugly duckling thing about her. I think she could blossom into a surprising star.

- Kristen.

90210, The OC and more recently Gossip Girl -- American Television has a long and sordid history of teens behaving badly. Unfortunately, the Brits have one-upped us when it comes to tales of teenage debauchery.

If you're an Anglophile such as myself, you may have heard of Skins airing on Channel 4 (those UK TV networks have really creative names). This teen drama makes anything us Yanks have done look tame in comparison.

Take this promo for the first season:

There's a reason the show has been described as "Dawson's Creek on crack."

Today, the show's Season 1 DVD has finally been released in the US.

The show has garnered more buzz thanks to the recent success of Slumdog Millionaire (which pretty much made the Golden Globes its bitch) which stars Dev Patel, a member of the core cast of Skins.

Those of you who aren't willing to shell out for the DVDs can find reruns of the show on BBC America at odd hours of the morning.

-Nick

"His name is Mad, Mad Twatter, and he wants my bollocks." - Sid, Skins

The tremendous success of Slumdog Millionaire is encouraging ABC to bring back Who Wants to be a Millionaire to prime-time.

According to Entertainment Weekly, ABC is discussing bringing the monster hit back for one or two weeks this summer run to commemorate the 10th year anniversary of the show's debut. I can't believe that it has been that long already! Anyway, the idea seems to be practical; however, I don't believe the show will get the ratings that ABC is looking for, especially if it runs every night. Maybe two or three nights would keep the viewers interested. But let's be honest, the show can get a little repetitive.

And who will be chosen as the host? Since they are honoring the show's debut, I believe that Regis should take the reins once again seeing as he was the original face of Millionaire. Meredith Vieira would be another safe choice, but I think Regis would be the best fit. It wouldn't hurt the show if producers decided to spice it up a bit. It wouldn't hurt to add some new and improved life-lines, more audience involvement, or maybe even something that makes being in the "hot seat" more stressful - like a time limit.

All in all, I think bringing back Millionaire for one last hurrah would bring in a fair amount of viewers. Those who have seen Slumdog (if you haven't, drop what you are doing and GO NOW) will enjoy Millionaire's comeback, and I think fans of the show will be back to watch the anniversary run. Let's hope that a contestant goes all the way just like Jamal in Slumdog!

- Vanessa

BEST TELEVISION SERIES - DRAMA

Dexter - Forget CSI: Miami, this Showtime crime drama follows the life of Dexter Morgan, a Miami Metro Police Department Blood Spatter Analyst/Serial Killer who goes after murderers when he's not solving crimes. Based on the book series by Jeff Lindsay, this is the most unsettling show nominated, even beating out True Blood.

House - If you don't know what this show is by now, I'm sorry, but I'm not going to tell you.

In Treatment - While it only takes House one hour to solve a case, this HBO drama follows psychotherapist Dr. Paul Weston. Each episode (one airing every weeknight), deals with one or two patients who have come for their weekly therapy sessions.

Mad Men - Last year's winner, this AMC (yes I said that right) drama is one of the least watched shows on cable, yet manages to be a favorite of critics. Following the lives of 1960s Madison Avenue Ad Executives, this show provides a bitter commentary on the society of an America not far in the past.

True Blood - In a year when vampires are all the rage, this HBO series explores a world where vampires, thanks to synthetic blood, can live among humans. This show can best be described as an R-rated Twilight with a much better plot.

Nick's Pick: Mad Men
I personally love Mad Men, and I think it deserves the win, both for its writing and direction. There is however some stiff competition, and I think any one of these shows could win.

Kristen's Pick: Mad Men
Mad Men is the most addicting and fascinating show on television right now. Smart dialogue, great acting and beautiful costumes are all reasons why it will, as well as should, be awarded the best drama of the year.

BEST TELEVISION SERIES - COMEDY OR MUSICAL

30 Rock - Although it's a critic's favorite, this NBC comedy is the least watched show in their Thursday night comedy bloc. With cameos from some of the biggest stars on television, this brainchild of SNL alumna Tina Fey has continued to deliver hilarity into its third season.

Californication - Following the plight of a womanizing, alcoholic writer, former Agent Mulder David Duchovny stars in this Showtime comedy. Between all the prostitutes, masturbation, and vasectomies, this show gives It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia a run for its money as the most tasteless show on television.

Entourage - This is the fifth nomination without a win for this HBO comedy. Apparently it's not easy being an up and coming A-List celebrity. Vincent Chase (loosely modeled after Mark Wahlberg) has had a rough year getting his career back on track, but with the help of his agent, Ari Gold, things may be looking up.

The Office - Once again, if you don't know what this show is, please stop living under a rock.

Weeds - Everyone's favorite comedy about a pot-dealing housewife, there have been a lot of changes for the Botwin clan this year. Moving to the US/Mexico border, the family business has expanded as Nancy Botwin struggles to balance family and a career.

Nick's Pick: 30 Rock
30 Rock was by far the funniest of these shows this season. The Office and Weeds both had a weak seasons in my opinion, and while Entourage and Californication stagnated, 30 Rock has continued to develop as a series.

Kristen's Pick: Who will win: 30 Rock; Who should win: The Office. While 30 Rock (thanks in part to Tina Fey's unstoppable popularity this year) is on a roll, The Office is still the funniest show on television and always keeps me coming back for more.

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES - DRAMA

Gabriel Byrne, In Treatment - Playing the psychotherapist who could use a fair deal of therapy himself, Byrne's debut as Dr. Paul Weston has made a big impact, and may draw some attention away from those diagnosticians who seem to be all the rage at the moment.

Michael C. Hall, Dexter- This is Hall's third nomination for his portrayal of Dexter Morgan, everyone's favorite psychopath. This season Dexter makes a friend and gets married, two big steps for a sociopath.

Jon Hamm, Mad Men - Last years winner, Hamm plays Don Draper, the enigmatic Ad Exec at the center of Mad Men. Coming to terms with his secret identity (not as glamorous as it sounds) and making amends with his wife after getting kicked out, things have gone well for this chain-smoking charmer.

Hugh Laurie, House - Winning two years in a row before losing to Jon Hamm, Dr. House may be ready for a comeback. While combating diseases from across the globe (as well has hostage situations and personal demons) House has shown viewers a few more glimpses that he is more than an egomaniacal monster.

Jonathan Rhys Meyers, The Tudors - Meyers plays a caricature of the English monarch, Henry VIII on this Showtime historical (fiction) drama. Taking broad liberties with historical fact, Henry is no longer the fat, impotent, and irritable monarch we know, but is instead a 16th century Chuck Bass, making for a far more entertaining program.

Nick's Pick: Michael C. Hall
While House is always a classic, Hall's skill at portraying a true sociopath showed more dramatic depth. Byrne's Dr. Weston is also a strong candidate. Once again, the drama category will be a close call.

Kristen's Pick: Jon Hamm
While already a fantastic show, Mad Men reaches perfection thanks to Hamm's fantastic performance. Hamm IS Don Draper, the brooding businessman with just enough likeability to keep viewers rooting for him.

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES - DRAMA

Sally Field, Brothers and Sisters - As matriarch of the Walker clan, on ABC's Brothers and Sisters, Nora Walker has come to terms with the consequences of her husband's death. She is in all likelihood the only actress nominated for playing a character who both fills a traditional gender role and isn't insane.

Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: SVU - The sole representative of the traditional crime drama genre at this year's awards, Hargitay's nomination for this award is a testament to Hargitay's acting skills, despite the show her character appears on. This season, Detective Olivia Benson solved some crimes (good for her).

January Jones, Mad Men - This season was kind to the women of Mad Men, and Jones perfectly captured the ennui of a 1960s suburban housewife. Although she presents a calm front in public, we get to see plenty of her true (unhinged) side as her marriage unravels and her father goes senile.

Anna Paquin, True Blood - Paquin's portrayal of the crime solving, vampire loving, telepathic, Louisiana waitress Sookie Stackhouse is somehow believable, and incredibly engaging. Fighting serial killers and renegade vampires while maintaining her career and love life, Sookie makes Bella look like an amateur.

Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer - While Jack Bauer shoots/maims those he interrogates, Sedgwick's Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson does the same psychologically (and on occasion just does the same). Winning two years ago, only to lose to Glenn Close last year, Sedgwick is poised for a comeback.

Nick's Pick: January Jones
As one critic put it, they might as well have renamed this season of Mad Men "Mad Women". January Jones had some of the best performances of her career, playing one of the most realistic characters on television.

Kristen's Pick: Who will win: Kyra Sedgwick; Who should win: January Jones. While Sedgwick has been praised numerous times for her work on The Closer, Jones shines as the quiet, but strong voice of a generation of underappreciated housewives on Mad Men.

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES - MUSICAL OR COMEDY

Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock - Playing the lovable executive Vice President of East Coast Television and Microwave Programming Jack Donaghy, Baldwin has a fair deal of competition in this category, as one of four past winners nominated in this category.

Steve Carell, The Office - Everyone knows about Carell's antics as the hopelessly out of touch Regional Manager Michael Scott. Although he showed little bit of character development by way of new HR representative Holly Flax, Carell has maintained the status quo of incompetence this season.

Kevin Connolly, Entourage - The only newcomer to this category, Connolly plays Eric Murphy, childhood friend and manager of actor Vincent Chase. The third business exec nominated, Eric's company "The Murphy Group" has taken off this season, making Murphy the most successful of the three.

David Duchovny, Californication - Not a lot has changed for Duchovny's Hank Moody this season, which may be a good thing, as he won this award last year for the series first season. This season consisted of more women, more booze, and more vomit, earning it several reprimands from conservative lobbies.

Tony Shalhoub, Monk - Back this year after failing to garner a nomination in 2008, the obsessive-compulsive detective. Finally finding the six-fingered man who had the bomb made that killed his wife, Adrian Monk finds out that this is just part of a larger scheme to frame him. It's no wonder that he has a condition.

Nick's Pick: Alec Baldwin
Alec Baldwin is one of the greatest character actors still working today. His ability to blend neurotic, ambitious, caring, and oblivious into one character is a testament to his skill as an actor.

Kristen's Pick: Who will win: Alec Baldwin; Who should win: Steve Carell. Baldwin won the Emmy this year and will more than likely continue to receive the Golden Globe as well, but Carell's almost painful portrayal of boss Michael Scott is still the heart of The Office and one of the best performances on TV.

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES - MUSICAL OR COMEDY

Christina Applegate, Samantha Who? - Nominated last year for the show's freshman season, Applegate plays Samantha Newly, a women suffering from retrograde amnesia who has decided right the wrongs she did in her past life. While the show is basically a My Name is Earl rip-off, critics have given Applegate praise for her acting.

America Ferrera, Ugly Betty - Ugly Betty, ABC's other character-centric comedy, has seen its share of success, including Ferrera picking up the award in this category in 2006. The moral of this story is that dressing poorly and wearing fake braces can lead to success.

Tina Fey, 30 Rock - Thanks to John McCain, Tina Fey is having the best year of her career yet. As well being nominated for her role in 30 Rock, which she also writes, her portrayal of Sarah Palin has brought her into the national spotlight. Last year's winner, this is her award to lose.

Debra Messing, The Starter Wife - This series is the only new show nominated for a comedy award this season. Messing plays Molly Kagen, a divorcee of a Hollywood marriage struggling to make it as a writer and raise her daughter. Nominated six times without winning for her role in Will & Grace, this would be Messing's first award.

Mary Louise-Parker, Weeds - Winning this award in her show's freshman season, a lot has changed for the drug-dealing widow in the past four years. Just this pas season, Nancy Botwin got into a relationship with the mayor of Tijuana, began trafficking in drugs, guns, and illegal immigrants, and strangest of all, started working with the DEA.

Nick's Pick: Tina Fey
Once again, I have to go with 30 Rock. Tina Fey is the star of the show, and not surprisingly gives herself some of the best scenes. The tragedy is that not enough people watch this show and have no idea that Michael Scott is not the most awkward character on television. When was the last time he started dating a dwarf after mistaking it for a small child?

Kristen's Pick: Tina Fey
Fey is on fire this year. From her spot-on SNL portrayal of Sarah Palin to her starring and writing credits on 30 Rock, Fey deserves any award she can receive.

Peyton's going to be a mom! This was some of the best news of the episode, along with Nathan making the Charleston Chiefs basketball team. However, Nathan has something to prove, especially to Devon Fox, his new teammate and number 23.

In a poignant moment, Nathan asks his new coach to wear number 12 in honor of the late Quentin Fields. Andre and Jamie take a little adventure to visit Quentin, and they both seem like they have more wisdom than their little bodies can handle. The episode has some other sad points as well.

Millie shockingly cheated on Mouth and lost her virginity to the stranger at the bar. Sam is also being held captive by Jack's brother, the ultra creepy Rex, who also happens to be the Brooke's attacker and Quentin's killer (revealed later in the episode). Brooke takes on the role of mom, and frantically looks for Sam the entire episode until she realizes she is at Jack and Rex's house.

In the end Brooke shows her true identity as supermom as she fights to the death for Sam. Brooke even pulls a gun on Rex; who knew she had it in her? However, when Sam calls Brooke "mom" Brooke takes the higher road and doesn't shoot Rex. I know, horribly disappointing.

The episode started off a little slow but the end proved to be that of other One Tree Hill premieres: poignant, sentimental, with a touch of action to bring loyal fans coming back for more.

If you weren't already aware, Gossip Girl has returned to the CW with new episodes. I am personally rife with anticipation. Where'd Chuck go? What happened to Lily's baby? And will Jenny stop being such a little scene kid?

Now you may ask why I am asking such questions -- questions that suggest that I actually watch this show. Well, I do. I shouldn't have to explain myself (this is the 21st century), but I will anyways. So, without further ado, here are Nick's "Reasons Why It's OK for a Guy to Watch Gossip Girl."

1. It's Addicting - After watching two episodes at the behest of a friend, I was hooked. You have to watch every week to see the latest "oh snap!" moment, from incestuous English nobility to unexpected paternity.

2. The music is amazing - Any show featuring songs by The Cold War Kids, OK Go and MGMT deserves to be given a chance.

3. It's produced by Josh Schwartz - You don't know who this is, and that's OK. You should, however, be aware that this is the guy responsible for both The OC and Chuck.

4, 5, and 6.

7. Chuck Bass - Come on, who doesn't want to be this guy?

8. Finally, it's a great way to meet girls - Who needs pick up lines when you can just ask, "Can you imagine what Chuck did to Blair this week?" Just ask this guy:

So, remember to watch Gossip Girl, Mondays at 8 p.m. on the CW.

- Nick