ABC Renews "Once Upon a Time" for a Second Season

ABC Renews "Once Upon a Time" for a Second Season

ABC has renewed its freshman hit "Once Upon a Time" for a second season.

Co-creator Adam Horowitz broke the news via his Twitter feed this afternoon: "It's official -- #OnceUponATime has been picked up for season 2. Thank you all so much for watching, we're beyond thrilled to continue on!"

The show's most recent episode drew a 3.0 rating among adults 18-49, putting it in the top 20 of all programs last week.

Celebrity Big Brother 2012: Brian Dowling wants ALL of Girls Aloud in the house!

Celebrity Big Brother 2012: Brian Dowling wants ALL of Girls Aloud in the house!

Big Brother host Brian Dowling has said he wants to see all of Girls Aloud in the house this year!

The Irish telly presenter was speaking about rumours of Girls Aloud star Nadine Coyle entering the house.

“I’d be happy with any of the people that have been in the papers – Cheryl Fergison (Heather from Eastenders), Janice Dickinson or Nadine Coyle,” Brian said. “Everyone wants to know what’s gone on with Girls Aloud.”

He added: “Yeah put Girls Aloud in there, let them kill each other [Hunger Games style].”

Speaking to Yahoo, Brian also said he wanted Big Brother to be “kind” to the housemates this year.

He explained: “I like it when they give them alcohol and get them lulled into a false sense of security. Like with the argument with Denise [Welch] and the twins [in the last series], no-one expected that.”

'Family Guy,' 'American Dad' Renewed by Fox; 'Cleveland' Up in the Air

'Family Guy,' 'American Dad' Renewed by Fox; 'Cleveland' Up in the Air

Seth MacFarlane is running two for three with his Animation Domination stable of series right now.

Fox has renewed MacFarlane's "Family Guy" and "American Dad," TheWrap has confirmed. A decision on the renewal of MacFarlane's other animated series, "The Cleveland Show," is still pending.

"Family Guy," which was famously canceled by Fox in its early seasons before being revived due to fan interest, is preparing to wrap its 10th season on May 20. "American Dad" is currently in its 7th season, while "The Cleveland Show" is in its fourth season.

The most recent episode of "The Cleveland Show" was down 7 percent in the advertiser-coveted adults 18-49 demographic, with a 1.4 rating/4 share.

'TOWIE' Mark Wright lands ITV2 'lads' holiday' show

'TOWIE' Mark Wright lands ITV2 'lads' holiday' show

Former The Only Way Is Essex star Mark Wright has landed a new ITV2 show that sees him embark on the "ultimate lads' holiday" in LA.

Mark Wright's Hollywood Nights will focus on the I'm A Celebrity contestant's adventures in Tinseltown with his 'entourage', which includes his driver, PA and bodyguard.

"Me and the boys are going to smash it," Wright declared. "I've got lots of things lined up.

"This holiday is not just about partying. I want to explore LA, discover what it has to offer and I've got a few cheeky surprises up my sleeve also."

Wright also teased the project on Twitter yesterday (May 9), writing: "On my way 2 the airport 4 what is my next adventure.

"TOWIE, JUNGLE, TMOTG (Take Me Out: The Gossip) & now this. All will b revealed soon guys. I know u r going 2 love [it] (sic)."

Mark Wright's Hollywood Nights is scheduled to air on ITV2 in the summer.

'Do No Harm,' 'Infamous' Picked Up to Series by NBC

'Do No Harm,' 'Infamous' Picked Up to Series by NBC

NBC has given the pilot "Do No Harm" a season order.

The drama, which stars "Rescue Me" alum Steven Pasquale, revolves around a brilliant neurosurgeon who wrestles with his dangerous alter-ego that threatens to wreak havoc with his personal and professional life.

Alana De La Garza and Ruta Gedmintas also star in the series, which is produced by Universal Television.

David Shulner wrote the pilot and is producing along with Peter Traugott and Rachel Kaplan. Michael Mayer, who directed the pilot, is co-executive producing.

The network has also picked up the drama "Infamous" to series. Formerly known as "Notorious," the series us described as an "opulent soap in which a female detective returns undercover to the wealthy family she grew up in -- as the maid's daughter -- to solve the murder of a notorious heiress who was once her closest friend."

Katherine LaNasa ("Two and a Half Men") and Neil Jackson ("Quantum of Solace") star in the Universal Television/Berman Braun production.  Liz Heldens ("Prime Suspect") wrote the pilot and is producing with Gail Berman, Lloyd Braun and Gene Stein. Peter Horton directed the pilot.

'30 Rock' Renewed for Final Season; 'Parenthood' Also Coming Back

'30 Rock' Renewed for Final Season; 'Parenthood' Also Coming Back

"30 Rock" has received a renewal from NBC for its final season, while "Parenthood" has been renewed as well.

The Tina Fey-created "30 Rock" will go into its seventh season. "Parenthood" will return for a fourth season.

In January, TheWrap reported that "30 Rock" star Alec Baldwin had committed to at least two more seasons of the series, though reports that "30 Rock" might be winding to a close have surfaced in recent weeks. In April, amid speculation that Baldwin might exit the series, Fey appeared on "The View" and admitted that the end of the show was "on the horizon."

"As far as I know, he's not leaving the show. We're all in this together 'til the end." Fey said. "I think that he just maybe means that the end of the show -- we're in six years -- that the end of the show is visible on the horizon. We're all still on the show."

'Community' Renewed by NBC

'Community' Renewed by NBC

Fear not, "Community" fans; the NBC sitcom will live on for  fourth season.

The sitcom, which has been troubled by lukewarm ratings, a mid-season hiatus, and a nasty feud between series star Chevy Chase and creator Dan Harmon, has been re-upped with a 13-episode commitment from NBC.

The show's uncertain fate has been a cause of great concern for its small but intensely loyal following. Reacting to chatter that the show might be yanked from the air in the face of poor ratings, fans organized a flash mob at NBC headquarters in New York in an effort to convince network brass to save the show.

Maybe it worked?

In the most recent blow for the series, co-show runners Neil Goldman and Garrett Donovan decided to leave the series earlier this month for a two-year development deal at 20th Century Fox TV.

Earlier Thursday, NBC renewed "30 Rock" for a seventh and final season, and "Parenthood" for a fourth season.

Development Update: Series Pick Up the 11th of May

Development Update: Series Pick Up the 11th of May

DO NO HARM (NBC) - The Peacock has ordered its modern day take on "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" - from creator David Schulner - to series. Steven Pasquale toplines the drama as Jeffrey Kohn, a brilliant neurosurgeon who wrestles with his dangerous alter-ego Ian Price that threatens to wreak havoc on his personal and professional life. Also starring are Ruta Gedmintas as Kohn's former fiance; Alana De La Garza and Mousa Kraish as fellow doctors at Boston Medical Center; Phylicia Rashad as the Chief of Surgery; and Michael Esper as Jeffrey's rival at the hospital. Michael Mayer helmed the pilot, which comes from Universal Television. Peter Traugott and Rachel Kaplan also serve as executive producers. (Deadline.com)

INFAMOUS (A.K.A. NOTORIOUS) (NBC) - The Meagan Good-led drama - from creator Liz Heldens - has likewise been ordered to series by the network. Good plays Joanna Locasto, a police detective who returns undercover to the wealthy family she grew up in - as the maid's daughter - to solve the murder of Vivian Lawson, the notorious heiress who was once her closest friend. Laz Alonso also stars a fellow NYPD detective/former flame who recruits Joanna to infiltrate the Lawson home - which includes Victor Garber as patriarch Robert; Katherine LaNasa as his second wife; Tate Donovan as eldest son Edward; Neil Jackson as youngest Julian; and Ella Rae Peck as Vivian's half-sister Mia. Universal Television-based BermanBraun is behind the project, which is also executive produced by Gail Berman, Gene Stein and Lloyd Braun. (Deadline.com)

THE FOLLOWING (A.K.A. UNTITLED KEVIN WILLIAMSON PROJECT) (FOX) - The network has ordered the Kevin Williamson-penned drama - which stars Kevin Bacon as Ryan Hardy, a former FBI agent who leads the search to catch Joe Carroll (James Purefoy), a diabolical serial killer - to series. The Warner Bros. Television-based pilot, directed by Marcos Siega, also stars Jeananne Goossen and Shawn Ashmore as FBI agents who team with Hardy; Valorie Curry as Hardy's nanny; Natalie Zea as Carroll's ex-wife; Maggie Grace as Sarah Fuller, Carroll's only surviving victim; as well as Adan Canto and Nico Tortorella as Sarah's neighbors. (Variety.com)

THE MOB DOCTOR (A.K.A. UNTITLED BERMAN & WRIGHT PROJECT) (FOX) - The Jordana Spiro-led pilot - a drama about Grace Devlin, one of Chicago's top young cardiothoracic surgeons who, to save her gambling-indebted brother (Jesse Lee Soffer), is forced to moonlight as a mob doctor - has likewise been ordered to series. Michael Dinner helmed the Sony Pictures Television-based pilot, which was co-created by Josh Berman and Rob Wright. Zach Gilford and Jaime Lee Kirchner co-star as Grace's fellow doctors at the hospital; with William Forsythe as legendary mob boss Alexander Constantine, who had a history with Grace's mother; and James Carpinello as a fellow mobster who has his own past with Grace. (Variety.com)

BEN & KATE (A.K.A. NED FOX IS MY MANNY) (FOX) - The Dana Fox-penned half-hour - about Kate (Dakota Johnson), an uptight single mom whose aimless brother Ned (Nat Faxon) moves in to help her raise her five-year-old daughter, Maddie (Maggie Jones) - is also heading to series at the network. The 20th Century Fox Television-based single-camera pilot, which was directed by Jake Kasdan, also features Echo Kellum and Lucy Punch as Kate and Ned's respective best friends as well as Austin Stowell as Kate's high school crush with whom she reunites for a disastrous date. Katherine Pope and Peter Chernin also serve as executive producers. (Deadline.com)

THE GOODWIN GAMES (FOX) - The single-camera comedy - about three siblings who must heed to the idiosyncratic terms of their father's will to inherit his fortune - is the one of three pilots that were ordered to series this afternoon. "How I Met Your Mother's" Carter Bays, Craig Thomas and Chris Harris are all behind the project, which is set up at 20th Century Fox Television. Scott Foley plays the eldest son Henry, a dedicated surgeon; with Becki Newton as middle child Coney, an aging shot girl in Las Vegas; and Jake Lacy as youngest Jimmy, a scruffy petty thief. Felisha Terrell also stars as the attractive minister of the church who used to date - and was dumped by - Henry; while Melissa Tang plays their late father's estate attorney. Peyton Reed directed the pilot. (Deadline.com)

IT'S MESSY (A.K.A. UNTITLED MINDY KALING PROJECT) (FOX) - The Mindy Kaling-led single-camera comedy - about Mira Kaviraya, a young doctor trying to navigate both her personal and professional lives - has likewise landed a series commitment from the network. Chris Messina, Ed Weeks and Richard Schiff co-star as her partners at Shulman Womens Health Associates with Zoe Jarman as their receptionist and Anna Camp as Mira's best friend. Ed Helms and Bill Hader also guest starred in the Universal Television-based half-hour, which was directed by Charles McDougall. Kaling, who likewise penned the script, presumably won't return to "The Office" as a full-time cast member due to the pickup. (Deadline.com)

TBS Picks Up Series From Ashton Kutcher, 'Conan' Writer

TBS Picks Up Series From Ashton Kutcher, 'Conan' Writer

TBS has given the green light to a series from Ashton Kutcher's company Katalyst and another from "Conan" writer/producer Deon Cole.

"Who Gets the Last Laugh?" is the working title for Kutcher's project, which "puts a new twist on the comedy format by pitting two comedians against each other in the ultimate prank challenge." The comedians will construct their pranks using the same situation and elements and then unleash them on the public, with a studio audience deciding whose prank came off best. Kutcher will executive-produce, with Katalyst co-founder Jason Goldberg serving as executive producer and show runner.

"Deon Cole's Black Box," meanwhile, will feature Cole presenting "some of the most outrageous video clips to pop up across the media landscape," using the clips to explore racial and gender stereotypes, politics and other topics. Conan O'Brien is executive producing with his Conaco LLC partners Jeff Ross and David Kissinger, with Cole and Doug Karo also executive-producing.

"Who Gets the Last Laugh?" has been greenlit for nine episodes, while "Deon Cole's Black Box" has received six episodes.

Both series are produced by Warner Horizon Television, and will premiere next year.

David Hasselhoff: 'I'm not watching Britain's Got Talent'

David Hasselhoff: 'I'm not watching Britain's Got Talent'

David Hasselhoff has claimed that he's not watching this year's Britain's Got Talent following his exit from the show at the end of last year.

The former Baywatch actor was dumped from the lineup following what Simon Cowell and producers considered to be a lacklustre series of the reality show in 2011.

Britain's Got Talent judges panel: Michael McIntyre, David Hasselhoff, Amanda Holden and Simon Cowell

Speaking to The Mirror yesterday, the US actor claimed that he hadn't bothered with this year's series - which has featured Alesha Dixon, David Walliams, Amanda Holden and Simon Cowell on the panel - commenting that he hates television.

"I'm not watching it at all. I hate television," said Hasselhoff. "I would much rather be on stage performing."

Commenting on criticism of his performance on the show, he added: "The publicity that I got was, 'David's not doing well. No-one can understand him'. But I thought I was okay!

"I tried to be entertaining and let people down with compassion. That's what I do... It was really lovely that people on Twitter said they missed me on the show."

Britain's Got Talent's final semi-final airs tonight at 7.30pm on ITV1.

'Doctor Who' Steven Moffat: 'Amy, Rory exit was tremendous challenge'

'Doctor Who' Steven Moffat: 'Amy, Rory exit was tremendous challenge'

Doctor Who exec Steven Moffat has admitted that he felt "tremendous pressure" writing out two of the show's stars.

Karen Gillan (Amy) and Arthur Darvill (Rory) will both exit the sci-fi drama midway through its seventh series.

"The event status of Amy and Rory leaving, which I've just written, you feel tremendous pressure with that," Moffat told The Huffington Post. "Because you don't know if you've enjoyed a story until it's over, and this is the ending.

"And then you're bringing someone else in [as the new companion]. All that is massively demanding."

Moffat added that it remains difficult to keep Doctor Who "very near the top" throughout a series run.

"We're always trying to work out how to get episode seven coverage in the newspapers," he explained. "Obviously episode one will [be written about], but how do you make [a later episode] a must-see?

"There's a constant game of that, because Doctor Who is an expensive show, it has to be very near the top all the time. That's tough to keep going."

Gillan and Darvill's final Who episode has been filmed in New York and will feature the return of the monstrous Weeping Angels.

Series star Matt Smith recently described the script for the episode as "incredible".

"[I am] really, really pleased with [the scripts]," said Smith. "So if we get them right, the Ponds' final hour could be incredible."

Doctor Who returns to BBC One this autumn.

TV Tonight 11th of May 2012

TV Tonight 11th of May 2012

The daily list in alphabetical order, of all the new episodes airing.

    20/20 S34E42: "Season 34, Episode 42"
    60 Minute Makeover S09E32: "Series 9, Episode 32"
    8 out of 10 cats S13E03: "Series 13, Episode 3"
    A League of Their Own (UK) S05E04: "Series 5, Episode 4"
    Accel World S01E06: "Retribution"
    Alan Carr: Chatty Man S08E03
    America's Most Wanted S25E24: "Season 25, Episode 24"
    Better Homes and Gardens S14E15: "Series 14, Episode 15"
    Big Brother Sverige S08E72: "Del 72"
    Blue Bloods S02E22: "Mother's Day"
    Come Dine With Me S18E87: "Series 18, Come Dine With Me"
    Common Law (2012) S01E01: "Pilot"
    Coronation Street S53E96: "Fri May 11, 2012 [Episode 2]"
    Coronation Street S53E95: "Fri May 11, 2012 [Episode 1]"
    CSI: NY S08E18: "Near Death"
    Dateline NBC S21E46: "FR2134"
    Days of our Lives S47E130: "Ep. #11840"
    DC Cupcakes S03E04: "Mommy's Birthday Bash"
    Deal Or No Deal (UK) S07E234: "Episode 1914"
    Degrassi S11E44: "In The Cold, Cold Night (1)"
    Dickinson's Real Deal S08E107: "Series 8, Episode 107"
    Dirty Great Machines S01E03: "Series 1, Episode 3"
    Doctors S14E27: "Secrets of the Heart"
    EastEnders S28E77: "May 11, 2012"
    Emmerdale S41E112: "May 11, 2012"
    Episodes S02E01: "Series 2, Episode 1"
    Escape To The Country S12E54: "East Anglia"
    Eureka 7 (JP) S02E05: "Episode 5"
    Fairly Legal S02E09: "Kiss Me, Kate"
    Fashion Police S07E19: "Season 7, Episode 19"
    Fringe S04E22: "Brave New World (2)"
    Gardeners' World S45E09: "May 11, 2012"
    General Hospital (US) S50E30: "#12558"
    Goede Tijden, Slechte Tijden S22E180: "Season 22, Episode 180"
    Great British Menu S07E25: "The Olympic Feast - 25"
    Grimm S01E21: "Big Feet"
    Have I Got News for You S43E05
    Heir Hunters (UK) S06E20: "Series 6, Episode 20"
    Hollyoaks S18E95: "May 11, 2012"
    Home and Away (AU) S25E80: "Episode 5515"
    Homes Under the Hammer S15E14: "Series 15, Show 14"
    Horrible Histories S04E09: "Series 4, Episode 9"
    House Hunters S48E94: "Las Vegas Dancer Wants His First Place"
    House Hunters International S25E97
    Jennie Garth: Little Bit Country S01E04: "Love Retreat"
    Jeopardy! S28E170: "Show #6375"
    Jessie (2011) S01E19: "Evil Times Two"
    King (2011) S02E11: "Justice Calvin Faulkner"
    Ladykracher S07E07: "Reingetreten"
    Ladykracher S07E08: "Echt"
    Late Night with Jimmy Fallon S02E268
    Late Show with David Letterman S19E72
    Later... with Jools Holland S40E04
    Lip Service S02E04: "Series 2, Episode 4"
    Live with Regis and Kelly S29E183
    Maestro at the Opera S01E02: "Episode 2"
    Magic City S01E06: "The Harder They Fall"
    Masterchef Australia S04E07: "Season 4, Episode 7"
    Mastermind (UK) S40E32: "Series 40, The Final"
    Medaka Box S01E06: "TBA"
    Melissa & Tye S01E04: "Mr. Mamma"
    Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries S01E12: "Murder in the Dark"
    Neighbours S28E90: "Episode 6400"
    Nikita S02E22: "Crossbow"
    Not Going Out S05E05: "Examination"
    Phineas and Ferb S03E39: "Minor Monogram"
    Phineas and Ferb S03E38: "Agent Doof"
    Piers Morgan's Life Stories S07E05: "Dennis Waterman"
    Pointless S06E48: "Series 6, Episode 48"
    Poms in Paradise S02E07: "Series 2, Episode 7"
    Primetime S23E16: "What Would You Do? (16)"
    Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is S06E29
    Real Time With Bill Maher S10E16: "Season 10, Episode 16"
    Romanii au Talent S02E13: "Finala"
    Sakamichi no Apollon S01E05: "Episode 5"
    Say Yes to the Dress: Bridesmaids S02E09: "TBA"
    Say Yes to the Dress: Bridesmaids S02E10: "TBA"
    Senkveld S21E14: "Season 21, Episode 14"
    Shark Tank S03E14: "Season 3, Episode 14"
    Stand Up for the Week S04E03: "Series 4, Episode 3"
    Supernatural S07E22: "There Will Be Blood"
    The Block S05E24: "The Block Unlocked"
    The Bold and the Beautiful S26E36: "Ep. #6320"
    The Chase (2009) S05E69: "Series 5, Episode 69"
    The Dead Files S02E05
    The Dr. Phil Show S10E157: "Last Chance for Amanda"
    The Ellen DeGeneres Show S09E158
    The Finder S01E13: "The Boy with the Bucket"
    The Graham Norton Show S11E05
    The Jeremy Kyle Show S07E168
    The Jeremy Kyle Show (US) S01E158
    The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson S08E78
    The Project S04E112: "Season 4, Episode 112"
    The Revolution (2012) S01E75: "Season 1, Episode 75"
    The Ricky Gervais Show S03E04: "Room 102"
    The Singing Bee S05E04: "Season 5, Episode 4"
    The Talk S02E165: "Season 2, Episode 165"
    The Tonight Show with Jay Leno S19E299
    The Ultimate Fighter S15E10: "Season 15, Episode 10"
    The View S15E158
    The Young and the Restless S40E35: "Ep. #9904"
    Thuis S17E185: "Season 17, Episode 185"
    True Justice S01E07: "Lethal Justice: Part 1"
    Undercover Boss S03E13: "Mastec"
    Van Der Vorst Ziet Sterren S05E03: "Season 5, Episode 3"
    Very Important People S01E03: "Episode 3"
    Whale Wars: Viking Shores S01E04: "Into the Fire"
    Who Do You Think You Are? (US) S03E11: "Jason Sudeikis"
    Would I Lie To You? S06E05
    WWE Friday Night SmackDown! S12E85: "Season 12, Episode 85"
    Интерны S07E06: "Занять у Купитмана"

ABC Renews 'Modern Family,' 'Grey's Anatomy,' Five Others

ABC Renews 'Modern Family,' 'Grey's Anatomy,' Five Others

ABC has renewed seven series, including comedies "Modern Family" and "The Middle," as well as its popular dramas "Grey's Anatomy" and "Castle."

The network also renewed its freshman offerings "Once Upon a Time," "Suburgatory" and "Revenge."

"Modern Family" has been a ratings and critical smash for the network, while the fairy tale-based "Once Upon a Time" has regularly won its Sunday at 8 p.m. time slot.

"Modern Family" and "The Middle" will be entering their fourth seasons, while "Castle"'s next season will be its fifth and "Grey's Anatomy" will go into its ninth season.

CBS Sues ABC Over 'Big Brother'-Like Reality Series

CBS Sues ABC Over 'Big Brother'-Like Reality Series

CBS has filed a lawsuit against ABC, claiming that the latter's upcoming series "Life in a Glass House" pays a little bit too much of an homage to its own hit "Big Brother."

In the suit, in U.S. District Court in California Thursday, the network claims that "Glass House" shares numerous similarities to "Big Brother" -- perhaps not surprising because, according to the suit, 19 former "Big Brother" producers and cast members are currently working on "Glass House."

"If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then CBS should take pride in ABC's latest reality television project, 'Life in a Glass House' ('Glass House')," the suit begins.

Among the many similarities that two shows share, according to the suit: "(i) both series involve, among other things, approximately 14 contestants living in a large house, isolated from the outside world, who are filmed continuously; (ii) both series involve interactive features, through which viewers are able to have input into aspects of the show, such as challenges in which the participants compete; (iii) in both series, contestants are voted off and the last contestant standing wins."

The suit goes on to allege that the former "Big Brother" staffers "are actively disclosing CBS's trade secrets and confidential information to ABC and its affiliates in violation of broad and binding non-disclosure agreements they signed in connection with their work on 'Big Brother.'"

According to the suit, the non-disclosure agreements call for a $500,000 fine if they're violated.

ABC denies that its "Life in a Glass House" is a copycat series.

We believe there is no merit to this lawsuit," the network said in a statement provided to TheWrap. "The differences between 'Glass House' and 'Big Brother' are both fundamental and obvious, ranging from 'Glass House'’s interactive elements and audience participation to its deployment of cutting edge technologies.

The suit claims copyright infringement, trade secret appropriation, unfair competition, conspiracy, and breach of contract, among other grievances. The Walt Disney Company, Keep Calm and Carry On Productions and the former "Big Brother" staffers are also named as plaintiffs in the suit.

CBS is asking that ABC and the other defendants be enjoined from using CBS' confidential information and surrender all copyrighted material and trade secrets they may have. The network is also asking for $500,000 each from the former "Big Brother" employees for allegedly breaching their confidentiality agreements, plus undisclosed damages, attorneys' fees and court costs.

'Dancing With the Stars,' 'The Bachelor' and 'Shark Tank' Renewed by ABC

'Dancing With the Stars,' 'The Bachelor' and 'Shark Tank' Renewed by ABC

"Dancing With the Stars," "The Bachelor" and the Mark Burnett-produced "Shark Tank" were greenlit for renewal by ABC on Thursday.

The renewals hardly come as a surprise; "Dancing" and "The Bachelor" remain solid draws for the network, with "DWTS" frequently winning most-watched status against its competitors.

The reality series' renewals follow on the heels of ABC renewing seven scripted series, including the commercial and critical hit "Modern Family," "Grey's Anatomy," and the freshman offerings "Suburgatory," "Revenge" and "Once Upon a Time."

"Dancing With the Stars" will enter its 15th season, while  "The Bachelor" will head into its 17th season and "Shark Tank" will receive its fourth season.

Alan Davies to host BAFTA Television Craft Awards

Alan Davies to host BAFTA Television Craft Awards

Alan Davies is to host the British Academy Television Craft Awards on Sunday, May 13 at The Brewery in the City of London.

The Craft gongs salute the behind-the-scenes talent from television and new media.

"I'm looking forward to meeting the people who actually do all the work in TV and to seeing people accept awards without collapsing in tears," said Jonathan Creek star Davies.

Amanda Berry OBE, chief executive of BAFTA, said: "Alan is one of those brilliant British talents that have done it all. Given that the Television Craft Awards recognise those that create television, the combination of his acting and stand-up experience, along with his proven track record in writing, makes him the perfect host for this year's event."

Sherlock, Doctor Who, Appropriate Adult and Birdsong are among the shows nominated for Craft awards this year.

Fresh Meat stars Joe Thomas and Kimberley Nixon, Tom Ellis, Top Boy star Kane Robinson, Nicholas Parsons and Kierston Wareing are among the famous faces lined up to present awards at the ceremony at the weekend.

'Sherlock' should remain event television, says Steven Moffat

'Sherlock' should remain event television, says Steven Moffat

Steven Moffat has suggested that Sherlock would suffer if more episodes were produced.

PBS exec Rebecca Eaton recently insisted that the Benedict Cumberbatch detective drama will always be comprised of three-part series.

"[The format has] worked for us," agreed Moffat, in an interview with The Huffington Post. "That will always be the case.

"It will probably extend the life of the show, because everybody gets to do other things. It's not like Doctor Who, which is 24-hour-a-day slavery as long as you're involved in it. That's why people have to escape [that show]."

Moffat argued that a shorter run of episodes gives Sherlock "its pace and intensity".

"If we now went to a Doctor Who-style series [of 13 episodes] - which we could have done - those episodes would be a bit pale compared to the ones we do now," he suggested.

"I don't think we could go the other route now. It didn't go that [three-episode] route because of my commitment to Doctor Who - it was Ben Stephenson of the BBC, the head of drama. He suggested Sherlock should be an event-status television programme."

The series would lose its "event status" if the quantity of episodes was increased, Moffat added.

"Sherlock arrives back like a rock star into the amphitheatre [but] it can't do that every week," he said. "It can do that three times every 18 months."

A third series of Sherlock is expected to begin filming in early 2013.

Big Brother viewers 'to pick wild card contestant'

Big Brother viewers 'to pick wild card contestant'

Viewers of this year's Big Brother will reportedly be able to pick one wild card entrant to join the already-selected housemates.

Producers are narrowing down a list of 'some of the crazier wannabes' who will be presented to the public after the first contestants enter the house, the Daily Star reports.

A source told the newspaper: "For years, fans have said that they want to choose housemates for the show and now they've got their chance.

"The wild cards will be characters who will stir things up and set the sparks flying."

They continued: "The lucky few will be brought out and do a Vote For Me piece to camera to explain why they should be chosen. Then it's down to the public.

"This lucky person stands a good chance of possibly winning. If viewers have picked them and they live up to expectations then they should be favourites to win."

A similar "Big Brother Election" was held during the second series of the show in 2001.

Despite being a 15-1 outsider with the bookies, Josh was chosen by the public to enter the house.

Josh eventually came sixth after he was evicted on the 50th day of the series.

'Inbetweeners' will not return, says James Buckley

'Inbetweeners' will not return, says James Buckley

The Inbetweeners star James Buckley has stated that the E4 series is unlikely to return.

Buckley - who played Jay Cartwright in the sitcom - was recently reported to have hinted about a fourth series being planned, which would include a major character death.

However, co-creator Iain Morris later denied the rumours, calling them "total b*llocks".

Buckley reiterated that the reports were unfounded, telling NME: "I've not been spoken to about it at all. I've had interviews in the paper just completely made up.

"I've not spoken to anyone for six months. There was an interview in the Daily Star where I was quoted saying we were going to do a fourth series and one of the characters was going to die, which wasn't true."

He added: "There are no plans to do any more, unfortunately. I think that will be the last you see of The Inbetweeners."

The cast was last seen together in the big-screen Inbetweeners Movie, which was released in August 2011.

James Buckley became engaged to his girlfriend Clair Meek earlier this year.

Ratings: 'Modern Family' Inches Up, But Fox Takes Night With 'American Idol'

Ratings: 'Modern Family' Inches Up, But Fox Takes Night With 'American Idol'

ABC's "Modern Family" saw a modest boost Wednesday night to take a narrow second place in ratings, while Fox grabbed an expected overall win for the night with "American Idol," according to preliminary numbers.

Fox took first place in ratings and total viewers with an average 4.4 rating/12 share in the advertiser-coveted 18-49 demographic and 16 million total viewers. "Idol" from 8 to 10 p.m. was down slightly in the demo from last week but is expected to adjust upward when the final numbers are  in.

CBS came in second in ratings and total viewers with an average 2.7/7 in the demo and 10.6 million total viewers. "Survivor" at 8 inched up in the demo from last week for a 2.7/8 with 9.7 million total viewers.

"Criminal Minds" the following hour was down slightly in the demo from last week, tying a series low of 2.8/8 with 11.5 million total viewers. The season finale of "CSI" at 10 was down 8 percent in the demo from last year's finale.

ABC landed in third place in ratings and total viewers with an average 2.5/7 and 7.1 million total viewers. Most of its slate saw minor boosts throughout the night, though "The Middle" at 8 took a slight hit in the demo, inching down to a 1.9/6 with 6.6 million total viewers. "Suburgatory" at 8:30 was up slightly with a 2.1/6 and 6 million total viewers, while "Modern Family" at 9 also enjoyed a modest boost in the demo, taking a 4.3/12 with 10.4 million total viewers.

"Don't Trust the B---- in Apt. 23" at 9:30 ran even with last week for a 2.3/6 in the demo and 5.8 million total viewers, while "Revenge" at 10 was up slightly in the demo, receiving  2.2/6 with 7 million total viewers.

Univision ran fourth in ratings and fifth in total viewers with an average 1.6/4 in the demo and 3.9 million. "Una Familia Con Suerte" at 8 took a 1.5/5 in the demo and 3.7 million total viewers, while "Abismo de Pasion" the following hour drew a 1.5/4 with 3.9 million total viewers. "La Que No Podia Amar" at 10 received a 1.6/4 in the demo and 4 million total viewers.

NBC came in fifth in ratings and fourth in total viewers with an average 1.3/4 in the demo and 5 million total viewers. Back-to-back episodes of "Betty White's Off Their Rockers" both grew over last week, with the 8 p.m. episode growing 15 percent in the demo for a 1.5/5 with 5.6 million total viewers and the 8:30 episode climbing 14 percent in the demo for a 1.6/5 and 5.4 million total viewers.

"Rock Center With Brian Williams" at 9 was down 20 percent in the demo for a 0.8/2 with 3.6 million total viewers. "Law & Order: SVU," which was renewed earlier this week, was down 11 percent in the demo at 10 p.m., posting a 1.7/5 and 5.7 million total viewers.

Obama Visiting 'The View' on May 15

Obama Visiting 'The View' on May 15

The women from "The View" should brush up on hail to the chief.

Barbara Walters opened Thursday's episode of the popular gab-fest with the announcement that Barack Obama will make his third visit to the show, joining Walters and her co-hosts on May 15.

"We are very proud to announce that this coming Tuesday, May 15, President Obama is going to come here to 'The View,'" Walters said. "It will be his very first interview since (he came out in support) of same-sex marriage, and I think we will want to know … the reaction that he's had."

POTUS previously appeared on "The View" in July 2010 and September 2007, when he was still Senator Obama.

Newly Single Chris Harrison: 'I'm Not Going to Be 'The Bachelor'

Newly Single Chris Harrison: 'I'm Not Going to Be 'The Bachelor'

Chris Harrison and his wife Gwen Jones recently separated after 18 years of marriage, but "The Bachelor" host says he's not ready to become a "Bachelor" contestant.

"Getting out of a 22-year relationship, having just announced my divorce to the world a week ago, having two kids and trying to start a new life, I'm thinking I wouldn't exactly be a great candidate to be 'The Bachelor' right now or anytime soon," Harrison said in a conference call Wednesday about the new season of "The Bachelorette," reports People.com.

"I was waiting for that question," Harrison said.

Harrison did say he can imagine how hosting the reality love search series might mean his future dates will have high expectations for being wooed.

"Yep, (they will expect) the helicopter and private jet," he said. "I haven't actually had a date in 22 years so we'll see."

The eighth season of "The Bachelorette," starring single mom Emily Maynard, premieres Monday on ABC.

Earnings: AMC Network Up on Stronger Ad Sales, Especially at Flagship

Earnings: AMC Network Up on Stronger Ad Sales, Especially at Flagship

AMC Networks beat expectations Thursday, posting a 44.8 percent increase in net income on revenue of $326.2 million thanks in part to stronger advertising sales, led by flagship AMC.

The company posted a 19.5 percent increase in revenues to $326.2 million. Net income rose to $43.2 million (60 cents per diluted share), compared to $29.8 million (43 cents per share) in the first quarter of 2011.

The company had been expected to earn revenue of $303.9 million, according to the average estimate of analysts polled by FactSet Research.

As of 10:15 a.m. Thursday, shares of the stock were up 2.48 percent to $40.60.

Revenues were led by 20.8 percent growth at National Networks -- which include AMC, WE tv, IFC and Sundance Channel -- and a 3.8 percent increase in International and Other. Adjusted Operating Cash Flow totaled $126 million, an increase of 26.2 percent, or $26 million, versus the prior year period.

Growth in National Networks revenues was primarily led by a 29.7 percent increase in advertising revenues, with AMC leading the increase. The company boasted record ratings during the quarter for "The Walking Dead."

Dish Networks announced last week that it would drop AMC Networks from its lineup when their contract expires next month, saying renewal costs were too expensive and the AMC networks didn't generate enough ratings. But AMC accused Dish of threatening to drop it because it suffered a legal setback in a lawsuit in which AMC's indirect subsidiary, Voom HD, is suing Dish for breach of contract.

'Downton Abbey' star Brendan Coyle: 'A movie is a good idea'

'Downton Abbey' star Brendan Coyle: 'A movie is a good idea'

Downton Abbey star Brendan Coyle has admitted that he is not opposed to a film version.

Rumours of a movie based on the hit period drama, in which Coyle plays valet Mr. Bates, have recently circulated.

"If it's a great, great script, [I'd do it]," said Coyle. "You'd have to regard it on its own merit at the time."

He added: "It's a good idea. [Julian Fellowes] is a terrific writer, so it would have to be something, I imagine, completely removed from the series."

Coyle admitted that he has no clue what has led Downton to become a "cultural phenomenon".

"I don't know what tipped it over," he said. "Nobody does. There's always theories that in times of austerity we look to nostalgia for comfort. There's all those social theories.

"There's [also] something about the open-ended, rolling nature of the story lines. You don't know what is going to happen, it's not finite in the same way a classic novel is, so... you get engaged in it in a different way."

Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville (Robert Crawley) has dismissed speculation that a film version is currently in the works.

"Julian Fellowes was at the Golden Globes and was... in conversation with people who work in films," he explained. "But to deduce from that that there is going to be a movie is a step too far. We'll have to do series three first and see what happens."

Coyle will next be seen in Sky1's Starlings which begins on Sunday (May 13) at 8pm.

Downton Abbey airs on ITV1 in the UK and on PBS in the US.

'Britain's Got Talent': Simon Cowell makes dig at 'Voice of Ireland'

'Britain's Got Talent': Simon Cowell makes dig at 'Voice of Ireland'

Simon Cowell made a dig against The Voice of Ireland in tonight's (May 10) Britain's Got Talent.

The judge spoke of his surprise to hear that semi-final winner Ryan O'Shaughnessy had not made it through to the latter stages of the Irish programme.

He stated: "They didn't put you through? Their loss is our gain."

O'Shaughnessy was at one point axed from Britain's Got Talent due to his contractual conflict with The Voice of Ireland and Universal Music.

However, he was later allowed to compete in the show after Universal freed him from the contract.

Cowell later added: "Even though I was teasing the other show, Universal Records were very kind with letting you out of your contract, so thank you."

Speaking about O'Shaughnessy's performance, he said: "You are believable. Your lyrics make sense, I listened to the lyrics. You're a brilliant songwriter and a brilliant singer. Maybe you can be the dark horse in this competition."

Ryan O'Shaughnessy joins Aquabatique, Jonathan & Charlotte, Ashleigh & Pudsey, Only Boys Aloud, Loveable Rogues, Nu Sxool, Sam Kelly, Kai & Natalia and Molly Rainford in the final.

Britain's Got Talent continues on Saturday (May 12) for the final, airing at 7.30pm on ITV1.

Russell Brand Hosting MTV Movie Awards

Russell Brand Hosting MTV Movie Awards

Russell Brand has been named the host of the 2012 MTV Movie Awards, which will air live on the network on June 3.

Brand previously played host for MTV for the 2008 and 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, where his flirtations with pop star Katy Perry led to their short-lived marriage.

"This MTV Movie Awards will be more impressive than 'The Avengers' and you won't have to wait an hour for someone to Hulk out," Brand said in a statement.

"With his amazing ability to span the full spectrum of comedy from the most high to lowbrow, Russell’s smart, unpredictable wit uniquely connects him to our audience," MTV president Stephen Friedman said. "His rock-n-roll sensibility and fearlessness give us the perfect partner with whom to take a leap of faith with as we meld the worlds of movies and music together on one very special night."

Past hosts of the MTV Movie Awards have included Eddie Murphy, Jason Sudeikis, Aziz Ansari, Jimmy Fallon, Jessica Alba, Andy Samberg, Justin Timberlake, Ben Stiller, Sarah Silverman, Lisa Kudrow and Sarah Jessica Parker.

Brand, meanwhile, also launches his FX talk show, "Brand X With Russell Brand," on June 28.

Jimmy Fallon Comedy 'Guys With Kids' Gets NBC Series Order

Jimmy Fallon Comedy 'Guys With Kids' Gets NBC Series Order

Jimmy Fallon's comedy pilot "Guys With Kids" has been given the go-ahead by NBC with a 13-episode season order.

The multi-camera comedy stars Zach Cregger, Jesse Branford and Anthony Anderson as three thirty-something men who "enjoy the adventures of parenting despite the fact they haven't grown up themselves."

"Sopranos" alum Jamie Lynn Sigler, "The Cosby Show" alum Tempestt Bledsoe and Sara Rue also star.

"Late Night" funnyman Fallon is producing, along with Charlie Grandy, who penned the pilot, Amy Ozols, Rick Wiener and Kenny Schwartz.

Earlier Wednesday, the network also gave a series order to the Dick Wolf drama "Chicago Fire," and also renewed Wolf's "Law & Order: SVU" for a 14th season.On Monday, NBC gave the full-season go-ahead to the White House comedy "1600 Penn" starring Bill Pullman, as well as "Animal Practice," a conedy starring Justin Kirk ("Weeds") as a "House"-like veterinarian who loves animals even if he isn't crazy about their owners.

'Doctor Who': New series to premiere at 2012 Edinburgh TV Festival

'Doctor Who': New series to premiere at 2012 Edinburgh TV Festival

The new series of Doctor Who will premiere at the the 2012 Edinburgh International Television Festival.

The sci-fi drama's seventh series premiere - which features classic monsters the Daleks - will be screened at the event, which takes place from August 23 to August 25.

Last year, the episode 'Let's Kill Hitler' also premiered at the festival, airing on BBC One the following day.

BBC One is yet to confirm an air date for the new series of Doctor Who, though an autumn transmission is expected.

Who showrunner Steven Moffat will also take place in a Masterclass panel for his other BBC drama Sherlock, alongside co-creator Mark Gatiss and producer Sue Vertue.

Karen Gillan (Amy) and Arthur Darvill (Rory) will exit Doctor Who midway through the seventh series.

New companion Jenna-Louise Coleman will then join the show in the 2012 Christmas special, written by Moffat.

'Apprentice' Lord Sugar cans another candidate in graffiti task

'Apprentice' Lord Sugar cans another candidate in graffiti task

Apprentice candidate Laura Hogg has become the eighth contestant to be fired from this year's series.

The Scottish bridal shop owner was sent home by Lord Alan Sugar after making just £750 commission in this week's urban art sales challenge.

Hogg was part of Team Phoenix, who brought in a total of £4,442, including a £2,000 commission obtained from corporate client Renault by project manager Tom Gearing.

However, the Gabrielle Omar-led Sterling were able to bring in £4,579 despite failing to win a commission from Beefeater Gin, triumphing in the task by a margin of £137.

In the boardroom, Gearing was forced to take the blame for losing profitable artist Pure Evil due to what Nick Hewer called "a lack of a real desire to represent him". He was also scolded for choosing work by James Jessop instead, which was deemed too expensive and too large for buyers and failed to sell.

Gearing brought Hogg back into the boardroom after discovering that she sold the least pieces at their gallery. He also selected Jade Nash, arguing that she was indecisive about the move to represent Jessop and Bristol-based artist Copyright.

Lord Sugar immediately expressed his doubts about Hogg, saying: "Maybe you're just not a good sales person, maybe you're just not a good business person."

She responded by fighting off accusations from Gearing that she took a "backseat" in the challenge and declared: "I am a very good sales person, I just didn't work smart last night."

In his final summary, Sugar blamed Gearing for the "two massive big flaws" that cost Phoenix the task - the loss of Pure Evil and the selection of James Jessop. He then told Nash that she made a "big error" by not pushing forward an alternative artist when they lost Pure Evil.

However, he then turned to Hogg and said: "You think you're a good person, you're certainly a good talker. I'm not totally convinced that you should remain in the process so Laura - you're fired."

Speaking after her departure, Hogg admitted: "I'm feeling pretty gutted at the moment, especially since I am so confident in my own sales ability and I can't believe that's what sent me home."

The Apprentice continues Wednesday at 9pm on BBC One.