Studio concession to SAG comes with a hitch: Less back pay

Studio concession to SAG comes with a hitch: Less back pay

For weeks, the major studios insisted they would never agree to a demand by Hollywood's biggest actors union to have its next contract expire at the same time as those of other talent guilds. 

Now, after back-channel talks between Screen Actors Guild leaders and top entertainment executives, the studios have conceded just that, lifting a stumbling block that broke off negotiations over a new contract in February.

Turns out, however, that the studios' offer comes with a big hitch that may not sit well with hundreds of actors who lost their jobs during the 100-day writers strike. In return for a two-year rather than a three-year contract term, the actors union would agree to settle so-called force majeure claims it filed last year seeking more than $10 million in pay.

After the writers strike ended in February 2008, SAG lodged claims against more than 80 shows on behalf of "series regulars" -- which encompass stars as well as those with a recurring role in a show -- who lost their jobs and wages during the writers walkout. The strike shut down popular series such as "Lost," "CSI" and "Ugly Betty."

SAG maintained that producers violated a force majeure clause in the union's contract that entitled actors to receive roughly 2-1/2 weeks' pay if they were suspended as a result of an "act of God," such as foul weather. The studios, however, balked at paying the claims and accused SAG of overreaching.

Studios want to impose a stricter interpretation of the force majeure clause and have offered to settle the outstanding claims for less than what the actors contend they are owed. How much less is unknown, however.

SAG interim Executive Director David White and Chief Negotiator John McGuire have indicated that they would accept the studios' demand as a necessary concession to preserve the larger goal of aligning the expiration of the actors contract with those of other guilds. They are especially keen to have SAG's contract expire at the same time as that of the smaller actors union, the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, to gain maximum leverage at the bargaining table.

Expect fireworks from dissidents. The force majeure issue will almost certainly be seized on by White's opponents in the actors guild, who've vowed to campaign to defeat a contract they view as an inferior deal. The actors have been working without a contract for nine months. 

Nonetheless, the new SAG leaders, who were installed after the board fired former Chief Negotiator Doug Allen, retain the support of the board majority. And in the end, most members, weary of working without a contract and anxious about the deepening recession, are expected to support whatever contract their board recommends.

-- Richard Verrier

Nimoy treks to 'Fringe,' 'Pushing Daisies' burnoff and news on 'Bones' and 'Dollhouse'

A few quick TV notes and factoids you might want to be aware of (in other words, this is what I've been Twittering about today):

Leonard Nimoy is close to signing a deal to play a key role in "Fringe," Zap2it's Korbi Ghosh reports. He's expected to appear in the show's May 12 finale and in the Fox show's second season. Jared Harris, a.k.a. Mr Jones, will be in the finale as well.ABC will show the unseen episodes of the canceled "Pushing Daisies," "Dirty Sexy Money" and "Eli Stone" on Saturdays over the summer. Here is the relevant paragraph from ABC's Wednesday press release (all times are Eastern): "Airdates for the remaining episodes of 'Pushing Daisies,' 'Eli Stone' and 'Dirty Sexy Money' were also announced, with 'Pushing Daisies” returning to the schedule as of Saturday, May 30 through Saturday, June 13 at 10:00 p.m.; 'Eli Stone' on Saturday, June 20 through Saturday, July 11 at 10:00 p.m.; and "Dirty Sexy Money' on Saturday, July 18 through August 8 at 10:00 p.m."   The season finale of "House" airs May 11. Carl Reiner guest stars.The season finale of "American Idol" airs May 20. It better not overrun its time slot. I'm very tired of Fox's shenanigans. Speaking of that, here are last few minutes of Tuesday's "Idol" if you missed Adam Lambert (and Simon Cowell's standing ovation). And here are the last few minutes of "Fringe" if you missed them.  Wackiness alert: "Family Guy's" Stewie Griffin (yes, the character voiced by Seth McFarlane) guests on the May 7 episode of "Bones." The guest stars in the "Bones" season finale on May 14: Motley Crue, Ryan O'Neal, Eric Millegan, Brendan Fehr.Joy: Alan Tudyk ("Firefly") guest stars in the May 1 episode of "Dollhouse." Another key character makes his first appearance in that episode. That show's season finale airs May 8. ABC's "Wipeout" returns May 27.

There's more on "Bones," "House," "Dollhouse" and "Prison Break" below -- including episode summaries -- in Fox's press release on its May sweeps plans. I've also put ABC's Wednesday press release below; it lists what the network is airing over the summer, in addition to the offerings in its Summer Burnoff Theatre. 

From Fox on Wednesday:

MAY IS MASSIVE ON FOX

 MILESTONE 250TH EPISODE OF “KING OF THE HILL” RIL 26;

“NASCAR ON FOX” IN PRIMETIME MAY 2 AND 9;

NOT-TO-BE-MISSED TWO-HOUR SERIES FINALE OF “PRISON BREAK” MAY 15;

SIDE-SPLITTING SERIES FINALE OF “MADtv” MAY 16;

ADRENALINE-LACED TWO-HOUR SEASON FINALE OF “24” MAY 18;

SPECIAL SERIES PREVIEW OF “GLEE” MAY 19;

AND CROWNING OF THE NEXT SINGING SUPERSTAR

ON TELEVISION’S NO. 1 SERIES “AMERICAN IDOL” MAY 19 AND 20

Jodie Foster, Drew Barrymore, Jason Segel, Neil Patrick Harris, Ellen Page,

Mekhi Phifer, Jay Leno, Jimmy Fallon, Craig Ferguson, Richard Dreyfuss,

Roy Scheider, Carl Reiner, Jon Voight, Ryan O’Neal, Fred Willard,

Kathleen Quinlan, Jennifer Tilly, Elisha Cuthbert, Brendan Fehr, Chace Crawford,

Lauren Conrad, Audrina Patridge, Joss Stone, Eric Millegan, Mötley Crüe

and Former MADtv Regulars Alex Borstein, Mo Collins, Will Sasso

and Debra Wilson Skelton Guest-Star in All-New Episodes

This May FOX delivers major television events, all-new episodes and big guest stars, including the milestone 250th episode of KING OF THE HILL April 26; primetime broadcasts of NASCAR ON FOX races May 2 and May 9; the intense ending to Michael and Lincoln’s long journey in the two-hour series finale of PRISON BREAK May 15; MADtv’s final late-night shenanigans after 14 hilarious seasons May 16; the thrilling climax of Jack Bauer’s seventh day-from-hell May 18; a special preview of the new one-hour musical comedy GLEE May 19; and the three-hour, two-night season finale of AMERICAN IDOL, featuring the final performance show May 19 and the final live results show that’s sure to captivate America May 20.

Here are the highlights, night by night, for this May on FOX:

MONDAY

Mondays this May, hearts will be racing as lives hang in the balance in three all-new episodes of HOUSE and five relentless all-new hours of 24, including the adrenaline-charged two-hour season finale.

Monday, April 27

HOUSE (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “House Divided”

A deaf 14-year-old named Seth (guest star Ryan Lane) collapses after “hearing” explosions while competing in a wrestling match and is brought to Princeton Plainsboro. When Seth loses vision in one eye and his condition worsens, the team faces an ethical dilemma involving his mother’s (guest star Clare Carey) adamant decision to forego cochlear implants. Meanwhile, House’s (Hugh Laurie) lack of sleep starts to play tricks on his mind, but he finds insomnia may be a gift instead of a burden.

24 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “3:00 AM-4:00 AM”

The nation remains vulnerable as Starkwood mastermind Jonas Hodges (guest star Jon Voight) remains at the epicenter of the mounting terrorist threat. Meanwhile, the FBI and the administration scramble to provide security and justice, and Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland) questions a key suspect.

Monday, May 4

HOUSE (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Under My Skin”

House and the team take on the case of a ballerina (guest star Jamie Tisdale) whose lungs collapse in the middle of a performance. When the treatment causes her skin to fall off, the dancer faces not only the prospect of never dancing again but also of dying an agonizing death. The team must use their imaginations to carefully choreograph ways to test and treat her delicate body without killing her. Meanwhile, House continues to suffer from what he thinks is insomnia, and he is willing to go to desperate measures to cure it.

24 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “4:00 AM-5:00 AM”

While lives remain on the line, some are lost, and an emotional Chloe (Mary Lynn Rajskub) copes with the declining conditions. With only three hours left, the devastating day worsens when the politicking inside the White House corners the divided administration.

Monday, May 11

HOUSE (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Both Sides Now” â€" Season Finale

House and the team are intrigued by Scott (guest star Ashton Holmes), a man whose left brain and right brain operate independently, leaving him with two distinct personalities and no control over some of his actions. As the two sides of Scott’s brain struggle for dominance, his warring personalities make it increasingly difficult for the team to figure out what is causing the unique problem. The team is forced to use some unusual methods to get him to cooperate with their necessary testing. Meanwhile, when House refuses to make an appearance in the clinic, Cuddy (Lisa Edelstein) takes an unconventional approach to force House to make up the time with a particular patient (guest star Carl Reiner).

24 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “5:00 AM-6:00 AM”

With the countdown on and innocent lives still targeted, Jack handles the situation and his imperiled daughter, Kim (guest star Elisha Cuthbert), gets involved. Meanwhile, the imminent threat stokes the heated rivalry between Chloe O’Brian and Janis Gold (Janeane Garofalo).

Monday, May 18

24 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “6:00 AM-7:00 AM” / “7:00 AM-8:00 AM” â€" Season Finale

After 22 hellacious hours underscored by the loss of innocent lives, the evil betrayal of colleagues, the First Gentleman’s kidnapping and shooting, a vicious siege on the White House, heroic sacrifices, a conspiracy, exposure to a lethal pathogen and an unthinkable bio-weapon attack, Jack reaches an emotional tipping point as the remarkable day ticks toward its climactic conclusion.

[EDITOR’S NOTE: For photos and more information on HOUSE, please visit foxflash.com/house; and for 24, visit foxflash.com/24.]

TUESDAY

America continues to vote for its next AMERICAN IDOL during FOX May, and Tuesday nights boast four not-to-be-missed episodes, including Part 1 of the hotly anticipated two-night season finale; three all-new creepy installments of FRINGE; and a special preview of the new musical comedy series GLEE.

Tuesday, April 28
AMERICAN IDOL (8:00-9:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) â€" “5 Finalists Compete”
The Top 5 finalists perform LIVE for the nation, singing their hearts out in hopes of winning America’s vote and surviving another week in the competition.

FRINGE (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Midnight”

Fringe Division is on the case when severely mutilated bodies drained of spinal cord fluid begin to pile up. After their investigation leads them to a scientist (guest star Jefferson Mays) with possible ties to the Z.F.T. bioterrorist cell, they are shocked to discover the identity and motive of the killer. When the kills occur with increasing frequency, Olivia (Anna Torv), Peter (Joshua Jackson) and Walter (John Noble) go to desperate lengths to stop them.

Tuesday, May 5

AMERICAN IDOL (8:00-9:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) â€" “4 Finalists Compete”

The Top 4 finalists perform LIVE as they vie for the title.

FRINGE (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “The Road Not Taken”

First her bad dreams became reality, and now Olivia is “dreaming” while awake, seeing elaborate bleak visions of things not really there. While investigating the disturbing case of a woman who apparently spontaneously combusted, Olivia throws caution to the wind and mines her unexplained visions for clues. Meanwhile, Walter comes clean about his prior knowledge of the Z.F.T. manifesto, and Peter’s secret project is revealed and yields surprising help in unraveling the mystery.

Tuesday, May 12

AMERICAN IDOL (8:00-9:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) â€" “3 Finalists Compete”

In the series’ 300th episode, the Top 3 finalists take to the stage on another all-new LIVE performance show.

FRINGE (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “There’s More Than One of Everything” â€" Season Finale

The sudden and unexpected attack on someone with close ties to Fringe Division, the return of bioterrorist David Robert Jones (guest star Jared Harris) and the inexplicable disappearance of Walter set the stage for a non-stop, nail-biting season finale of FRINGE. Questions will be answered, observations made, loyalties tested and truths and identities revealed.

Tuesday, May 19

AMERICAN IDOL (8:00-9:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) â€" “2 Finalists Compete” â€" Season Finale, Part 1

On the first night of the two-night season finale, the remaining two finalists battle it out for the AMERICAN IDOL crown at NOKIA Theatre L.A. LIVE in front of a live audience and millions of viewers watching at home. After the finalists perform, viewers will vote to decide who will be the next AMERICAN IDOL.

GLEE (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Pilot” â€" Series Preview

In a special preview of new one-hour musical comedy GLEE, optimistic high school teacher Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison) tries to refuel his own passion while reinventing the McKinley High School’s glee club and challenging a group of outcasts to realize their star potential. With McKinley’s cruel high school caste system and harsh criticism from everyone around him, Will’s determined to prove them all wrong and lead the glee club to the greatest competition of them all: Nationals.

[EDITOR’S NOTE: For photos and more information on AMERICAN IDOL, please visit foxflash.com/americanidol; for FRINGE, visit foxflash.com/fringe; and for GLEE, visit foxflash.com/glee.]

WEDNESDAY

On Wednesday nights this May, FOX presents three all-new installments of the new hit series LIE TO ME, as well as four live AMERICAN IDOL results shows, including the two-hour season finale that promises to be the biggest night of television this season.

Wednesday, April 29

LIE TO ME (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Undercover”

The Lightman Group gets embroiled in the controversial case of a policeman (guest star Martin Papazian) who shot a potentially innocent teenager. Meanwhile, investors who were bilked by a Ponzi scheme bring a lawsuit against The Lightman Group for botching the recovery of their money.

AMERICAN IDOL (9:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) â€" “1 of 5 Voted Off”

This May, the AMERICAN IDOL live results shows count down to the final two contestants. Each week, the finalist who receives the fewest votes will be eliminated from the race for the title. Tonight, the competition goes from the Top 5 to the Top 4.

Wednesday, May 6

LIE TO ME (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Blinded”

Ben Reynolds (guest star Mekhi Phifer), an FBI agent who’s been pursuing a serial rapist terrorizing the Washington, DC area, partners with The Lightman Group for its toughest case yet. Lightman (Tim Roth) infiltrates a prison to befriend Andrew Jenkins (guest star Daniel Sunjata), a convicted criminal and a pathological liar who the serial rapist may be copy-catting. Meanwhile, Torres (Monica Raymund) and Loker (Brendan Hines) search Jenkins’ fan mail, and Foster (Kelli Williams) questions one of the rapist’s recent victims.

AMERICAN IDOL (9:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) â€" “1 of 4 Voted Off”

In another all-new LIVE results show, the finalist who receives the fewest votes will be eliminated from the race for the title, narrowing the competition from four to three contestants.

Wednesday, May 13

LIE TO ME (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" Season Finale

After a terrorist bombing outside of Washington, DC, FBI Agent Ben Reynolds calls on The Lightman Group to help identify those responsible and prevent more attacks. The case takes a personal turn for one member of the team and begs the question of whether honesty is indeed the best policy.

AMERICAN IDOL (9:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) â€" “1 of 3 Voted Off”

The Top 2 finalists are revealed in another all-new LIVE results show.

Wednesday, May 20

AMERICAN IDOL (8:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) â€" “Winner” â€" Season Finale, Part 2

On the second part of the two-night AMERICAN IDOL season finale, the Top 13 reunite on stage one last time. At the end of a two-hour music celebration, host Ryan Seacrest will reveal the next AMERICAN IDOL.

[EDITOR’S NOTE: For photos and more information on LIE TO ME, please visit foxflash.com/lietome , and for AMERICAN IDOL, visit foxflash.com/americanidol.]

THURSDAY

This May, FOX Thursdays are hotter than ever with four all-new installments of BONES, including the not-to-be-missed season finale where Bones and Booth finally take their relationship to the next level, as well as a special guest appearance by FAMILY GUY’s Stewie Griffin; four all-new episodes of HELL’S KITCHEN; and Gordon Ramsay’s pick to receive a “head chef” position at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, NJ.

Thursday, April 23
BONES (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “The Girl in the Mask”
When the sister of Booth’s (David Boreanaz) Tokyo-based detective friend Ken Nakamura (guest star Brian Tee), goes missing in DC, Booth and Brennan (Emily Deschanel) are on the case. But after they find her decapitated head in a canal, Ken joins Booth and Brennan to trace his sister’s secret life away from home.

HELL’S KITCHEN (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “4 Chefs Compete”
Chef Ramsay prepares three delicious dishes for the remaining chefs to enjoy. When they are done tasting, he announces the “taste it, now make it” challenge, in which the chefs must recreate the dishes they just ate.

Thursday, April 30

BONES (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “The Beaver in the Otter”

When the body of a fraternity brother nicknamed “Beaver” is found inside the mascot uniform of a rival school, Brennan and Booth discover that “Beaver” was making a killing of his own through a money-making operation on the side. Meanwhile, Booth offers to help his brother Jared (guest star Brendan Fehr) find a new job after his dishonorable discharge from the Navy.

HELL’S KITCHEN (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “3 Chefs Compete”

The final three chefs are tasked with preparing a meal for 100 people, and the diners include chefs from and owners of Los Angeles’ finest restaurants. The winning chef is whisked off for a day of pampering and a feature segment on FOX’s Los Angeles morning show, “Good Day LA.”

Thursday, May 7

BONES (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “The Critic in the Cabernet”

Brennan decides she wants to have a baby and surprises Booth with a request to father her child. The unexpected request dredges up a host of unspoken feelings and unresolved issues between the two, and Booth becomes consumed by the prospect of having another child. The stress of the situation, coupled with Booth’s undiagnosed health issue, paves the way for a surprise visit from Stewie Griffin (guest voice Seth MacFarlane), FAMILY GUY’s diabolically clever baby who offers advice in his inimitable style.

HELL’S KITCHEN (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “2 Chefs Compete”

The final two chefs are given a chance to design their own restaurants, and a quick trip to the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, NJ, reminds both finalists what is at stake.

Thursday, May 14

BONES (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “The End in the Beginning” â€" Season Finale

In the season finale episode, a body is found murdered at “The Lab,” a popular nightclub, and everyone is a suspect. In an unusual twist of storytelling, Brennan, Booth and the Jeffersonian team take on various roles outside their normal duties, including serving as the nightclub staff as well as local law enforcement. Mötley Crüe, Ryan O’Neal, Brendan Fehr and Eric Millegan guest-star.

HELL’S KITCHEN (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “2 Chefs to Winner” â€" Season Finale

At the end of this intense season finale episode, Gordon Ramsay will give one aspiring chef the prize of a lifetime: a “head chef” position at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, NJ.

[EDITOR’S NOTE: For photos and more information on BONES, please visit foxflash.com/bones; and for HELL’S KITCHEN, please visit foxflash.com/hellskitchen.]

FRIDAY

FOX Friday goes into overdrive with back-to-back thrill rides PRISON BREAK and DOLLHOUSE, including the incredible two-hour series finale of PRISON BREAK.

Friday, April 24
PRISON BREAK (8:00-9:01 PM ET/PT) â€" “Vs.” â€" Time Period Premiere
Michael (Wentworth Miller) and Lincoln (Dominic Purcell) square off; Christina (guest star Kathleen Quinlan) sets her plan in motion; and Sara (Sarah Wayne Callies) makes a surprising discovery.

DOLLHOUSE (9:01-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Haunted”

When Adelle’s (Olivia Williams) wealthy friend mysteriously dies, Echo (Eliza Dushku) is implanted with the friend’s memories and personality in order to solve the murder. Ballard (Tahmoh Penikett) looks into Mellie’s (Miracle Laurie) past, and Topher (Fran Kranz) secretly programs Sierra (Dichen Lachman).

Friday, May 1

PRISON BREAK (8:00-9:01 PM ET/PT) â€" “S.O.B.”

Michael has an uneasy reunion with Christina, who drops a bombshell regarding Lincoln. While Lincoln runs into Christina’s deadly trap, T-Bag (Robert Knepper) sets out to prove he can become a Company man.

DOLLHOUSE (9:01-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Briar Rose”

Ballard’s investigation leads him to the agoraphobic designer of the Dollhouse (guest star Alan Tudyk); Echo helps a young girl deal with her traumatic past; Adelle goes to the Attic in search of answers; and Alpha reveals himself to set his end game in motion.

Friday, May 8

PRISON BREAK (8:00-9:01 PM ET/PT) â€" “Cowboys & Indians”

Pandemonium erupts at the hotel following an assassination at the global energy conference, and Michael must choose between saving either Sara or Lincoln.

DOLLHOUSE (9:01-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Omega” â€" Season Finale

Alpha’s reign of terror continues as his obsession with Echo endangers Caroline’s survival; Ballard must make a life-changing decision; and one Doll is permanently deactivated while another’s shocking past is revealed.

Friday, May 15

PRISON BREAK (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Rate of Exchange” / “Killing Your Number” â€" Series Finale

Familiar faces return to help Michael end his quest to bring down The Company once and for all.

[EDITOR’S NOTE: For photos and more information on PRISON BREAK, please visit foxflash.com/prisonbreak; and for DOLLHOUSE, visit foxflash.com/dollhouse.]

SATURDAY

This May, FOX Saturday is chock-full of action-packed pairs: two nights of back-to-back, all-new episodes of COPS; two all-new special-edition episodes of AMERICA’S MOST WANTED; two all-new airings of MADtv, including the sketch comedy’s momentous series finale; two all-new sit-downs on TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN; and two special primetime broadcasts of NASCAR ON FOX.

Saturday, April 25

COPS (8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “COPS: Police Pullovers #5”

A Las Vegas Metropolitan police officer pulls over a vehicle for a routine traffic infraction and finds a suspect with marijuana in his possession; officers in Cleveland chase a noncompliant suspect who disguises himself; and a detective in King County, WA, pulls over a vehicle in an area known for drug sales.

COPS (8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “COPS: From Bad to Worse”

Situations involving high-speed pursuits, Tasers and drug stashes go from bad to worse for suspects in Sacramento, Seattle and Cleveland.

AMERICA’S MOST WANTED (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “AMW: Murder Mystery in the Desert Special Edition”

AMW’s John Walsh tackles a serial murder mystery in the New Mexico desert, where the bodies of 11 women and one unborn child have been found buried in a massive, 100-acre crime scene. In addition, AMW and the U.S. Marshals team up in a new effort to capture the nation’s most wanted gang members.

MADtv (11:00 PM-Midnight ET/PT)

MADtv takes a look back at its classical late-night antics with the return of fan-favorite character “Coach Hines” (Keegan-Michael Key) and Bobby Lee’s five-year infatuation with castmate Crista Flanagan.

TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN (Midnight-12:30 AM ET/PT)

Actor and stand-up comic Tony Rock joins Feresten for a night of laughs.

Saturday, May 2

NASCAR ON FOX: RICHMOND 500 (7:00 PM to conclusion ET live/4:00 PM to conclusion PT live)

FOX Sports presents NASCAR Sprint Cup racing’s RICHMOND 500. Play-by-play broadcaster Mike Joy, analyst Larry McReynolds and analyst Darrell Waltrip call the action live from Richmond International Raceway.

MADtv (Approx. Midnight-1:00 AM ET/11:00 PM-Midnight PT)

In this laugh-out-loud encore, long-time MADtv friend Kathy Griffin hosts a special night honoring MADtv alum Michael McDonald and his fan-favorite characters, including “Stuart” and “Mofaz,” along with his impressions of “Dr. Phil,” “Hugh Laurie” and “Maury Povich.”

TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN (Approx. 1:00-1:30 AM ET/Midnight-12:30 AM PT)

In an encore episode, Kara DioGuardi, the newest AMERICAN IDOL judge, stops by the studio for a late-night chat with Feresten.

Saturday, May 9

NASCAR ON FOX: DARLINGTON 500 (7:00 PM to conclusion ET live/4:00 PM to conclusion PT live)

FOX Sports presents NASCAR Sprint Cup racing’s DARLINGTON 500. Play-by-play broadcaster Mike Joy, analyst Larry McReynolds and analyst Darrell Waltrip call the action live from Darlington Raceway.

MADtv (Approx. 12:30-1:30 AM ET/PT)

The Kardashian family â€" Kim, Khloe, Kourtney, Kris Jenner and Bruce Jenner â€" guest-star in an encore installment of MADtv to battle it out on “Celebrity Family Feud.” Plus, guest star Tila Tequila jumps into party mode reporting from the beaches of spring break with fellow CNN special correspondent “Tank” (Bobby Lee).

TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN (Approx. 1:30-2:00 AM ET/PT)

Isaac, Taylor and Zac Hanson of pop trio Hanson perform an acoustic version of their single “Follow My Lead,” and cable television personality Olivia Munn chats with Feresten in an encore TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN.

Saturday, May 16

COPS (8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “COPS: Coast to Coast”

Officers in North Las Vegas respond to a violent domestic-disturbance call where a female is screaming and waving around a gun. In Cleveland, officers detain a man for assaulting his live-in girlfriend, and officers in Sacramento pull over a vehicle listed as stolen.

COPS (8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “COPS: Odd Arrests”

Officers in Broward County, FL, chase a suspect into a canal, where he is arrested for grand theft auto and obstruction. Meanwhile, Las Vegas officers respond to calls involving verbally abusive roommates and three women alleging assault.

 

AMERICA’S MOST WANTED (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “AMW: Mexican Border War Special Edition”

Drugs are everywhere, and the battle to contain and fight the violence they bring onto U.S. soil has become law enforcement’s number one priority. AMW Host John Walsh crosses the border and goes into Mexico to get a firsthand look at where the problem is at its worst. He also meets with senior U.S. government officials at the border to join the fight against what has become one of America’s greatest threats.

MADtv (11:00 PM-Midnight ET/PT) â€" Series Finale

After 14 years of side-splitting sketches and ground-breaking pop culture parodies, MADtv says good-bye with a series finale like no other. Fred Willard guest-stars as the host of “MADtv Gives Back,” while MADtv alumni Alex Borstein, Mo Collins, Will Sasso and Debra Wilson Skelton bring back the characters they made famous on this late-night classic.

TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN (Midnight-12:30 AM ET/PT) â€" Season Finale

Comedy duo Tim Heidecker and Eric Wareheim of “Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!” visit Feresten for a season finale guaranteed to keep viewers up way past bedtime.

[EDITOR’S NOTE: For photos and more information on of COPS, please visit foxflash.com/cops; for AMERICA’S MOST WANTED, visit foxflash.com/amw; for MADtv, visit foxflash.com/madtv; for TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN, visit foxflash.com/talkshow; and for NASCAR ON FOX, visit foxflash.com/nascaronfox.]

SUNDAY

FOX Sundays in May offer up all-new episodes and season finales of KING OF THE HILL, THE SIMPSONS, SIT DOWN, SHUT UP, FAMILY GUY and AMERICAN DAD.

Sunday, April 26
AMERICAN DAD (7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “Chimdale”
Academy Award winner Forest Whitaker, Niecy Nash and Jon Cryer guest-voice an encore episode of AMERICAN DAD. When Steve finds out he has scoliosis and has to wear a back brace, he becomes the laughingstock of the school, but feels better when Stan admits to wearing a toupee. Meanwhile, Roger takes Francine to a weeklong spa retreat for two, but they run into problems when they try to sneak in an unpaid guest.

KING OF THE HILL (7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Serves Me Right For Giving General George S. Patton The Bathroom Key” â€" Milestone 250th Episode

In KING OF THE HILL’s landmark 250th episode, Hank receives a box of his father’s prized possessions a year after Cotton’s death, including Cotton’s ashes and one last crazy request.

 

THE SIMPSONS (8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “Father Knows Worst”
When Homer observes Bart and Lisa struggling in their academic and social lives, he becomes the ultimate meddling parent, choosing a nearly impossible subject for Bart’s balsa wood model-building competition and giving Lisa some not-so-sage advice on how to make friends with the popular girls. Meanwhile, Marge discovers a sauna in the basement that she finds hard to resist.

SIT DOWN, SHUT UP (8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Miracle’s Are Real”
To celebrate the first day of spring, Miracle distributes flowers (at least she thinks so) to the staff. The flowers turn out to be hemlock, and Andrew winds up in a coma. Larry’s pragmatism causes Miracle to lose her hippy-dippy spirituality. As a result, Miracle becomes despondent, and it’s up to Larry to help her regain her faith. Meanwhile, Helen’s grudge against Sue puts the school’s spring fundraiser in jeopardy.

FAMILY GUY (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “Stew-Roids”

Jennifer Tilly, Wentworth Miller and Chace Crawford guest-voice an all-new FAMILY GUY. After Stewie gets his baby butt kicked by Joe’s infant daughter, he starts to hit the gym. It seems like all of Stewie’s hard work is paying off until Peter drops a bombshell revealing just how Stewie got those six-pack abs. Meanwhile, Chris starts to date a popular girl at school.

AMERICAN DAD (9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Every Which Way But Lose”

Steve joins a junior football team to make Stan proud but gets kicked off the team for not being good enough after a hyper-competitive Stan assumes the position of head coach. Out for revenge, Steve and Roger recruit a new team of misfits who threaten Stan’s perfect season. Meanwhile, Francine and Hayley compete for a blue ribbon at the Langley County Fair.

Sunday, May 3

AMERICAN DAD (7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “StanTime”

In an encore episode, Stan is always exhausted and doesn’t have any time for himself. When his co-worker gives him pills that allow him to stay up all night but feel like he slept a full eight hours, Stan is ecstatic! The pills give him an extra dose of energy, but he ultimately discovers that instead of spending his newfound time on hobbies, he’d rather spend more time with his wife.

KING OF THE HILL (7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Bad News Bill”

When Hank tries to be realistic about Bobby’s below-average baseball abilities, he is vilified by Bobby’s hyper-supportive Little League coach and the whole baseball community.

THE SIMPSONS (8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “Waverly Hills 9-0-2-1-D’Oh”

When Marge learns Springfield Elementary is the worst school in the state, she and Homer rent an apartment in the upscale Waverly Hills school district so Bart and Lisa can attend a better school. Bart establishes a new bad boy image to impress the other students and increases an ostracized Lisa’s popularity by telling everyone she is best friends with pop star Alaska Nebraska (guest voice Ellen Page). Meanwhile, Homer moves into the rented Waverly Hills apartment and gets used to the bachelor lifestyle.

SIT DOWN, SHUT UP (8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “World’s Greatest Teacher”

When Knob Haven High has a chance to become a “Distinguished School,” Larry volunteers to give a speech to the school board but is replaced after an impressive video of Ennis surfaces online. Meanwhile, Willard volunteers to teach Driver’s Ed in hopes of overcoming his fear of driving.

FAMILY GUY (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “We Love You Conrad”

When Brian discovers that his ex, Jillian (guest voice Drew Barrymore) is getting married, he is devastated until he meets “The Hills” star Lauren Conrad (guest-voicing as herself). Brian quickly discovers that Lauren just might be his perfect match â€" if only he can let Jillian go. Audrina Patridge, Jay Leno, Craig Ferguson and Jimmy Fallon also guest-voice in the all-new episode.

AMERICAN DAD (9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Weiner of Our Discontent”

Stan has had enough of Roger’s antics! When he calls Roger out, Roger claims he has been sent to Earth to determine the fate of mankind. Stan challenges him to prove it, and is tickled pink when he learns Roger’s real purpose for being on Earth. Roger struggles to get a grip on reality until a fateful turn of events helps put things in perspective.

Sunday, May 10

AMERICAN DAD (7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “Family Affair”

In an encore installment, the Smiths try to plan a family game night, but Roger is full of excuses about prior commitments. When he is caught in a lie, the Smiths realize Roger has been cheating on them with other families and plan to teach Roger a lesson about being faithful.

KING OF THE HILL (7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Manger Baby Einstein”

While adjusting to her new role as a mom, Luanne becomes a children’s performer and creates a franchise around her Manger Baby puppets, experiencing the highs and lows of the fickle children’s entertainment industry.

THE SIMPSONS (8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “Four Great Women and a Manicure”

Marge and Lisa visit the nail salon where they engage in a spirited debate as to whether a woman can be smart, powerful and beautiful all at the same time. To prove their point, they spin four tales of famous women featuring famous Springfield faces: Selma as Queen Elizabeth I, Lisa as Snow White, Marge as Lady Macbeth and Maggie (guest voice Jodie Foster) as the idealistic architect protagonist from Ayn Rand’s “The Fountainhead.”

SIT DOWN, SHUT UP (8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Back in Time”

In an effort to impress the PTA, the faculty and staff of Knob Haven High School throw a party at Huey Lewis’ house. In true John Hughes fashion, the teachers decide to shake it up: Larry tries to get Miracle’s attention with his “interesting” date, Helen attempts to reinvent herself, Andrew finds his true identity and Willard goes on a booze run in a DeLorean that takes him across town and the time-space continuum in this homage to the ‘80s.

FAMILY GUY (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “Peter’s Progress”

Peter has his palm read by a psychic who reveals that he had a fascinating past life as Griffin Peterson, a dignified gentleman who vied for the love of Lady Redbush in 17th century England and in the newly founded American colony of Quahog. It was a time of great love and adventure where King Stewart reigned supreme, the smartest dog in the room was the court jester, army lieutenants were merely boys and even old England loved “How I Met Your Mother” (Jason Segel, Neil Patrick Harris and Josh Radnor guest-voice).

AMERICAN DAD (9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Daddy Queerest”

Neighbors Terry and Greg are nervous when Terry’s father, football great Tank Bates, announces that he will be coming to town for a visit. Terry is worried because his dad doesn’t know he’s gay, has a baby or lives with his partner. Meanwhile, Steve goes on a drunken bender and learns the meaning of “beer goggles.”

Sunday, May 17

AMERICAN DAD (7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “Live and Let Fry”

Academy Award winner Forest Whitaker guest-voices an encore episode. When Langley Falls implements a ban on trans fats, Stan finds himself legally separated from his favorite foods. He sets a poor example for the rest of the family when he blatantly disregards the law by crossing county lines and using Steve as a trans-fatty food mule to satisfy his own gluttonous desires.

KING OF THE HILL (7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Uh-Oh Canada” â€" Season Finale

When Boomhauer swaps homes with a Canadian family for the summer, Hank and the guys have to deal with the less-than-agreeable visitors.

THE SIMPSONS (8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “Coming to Homerica” â€" Season Finale

When nearby Ogdenville’s economy crumbles due to tainted barley discovered in Krusty’s veggie burgers, the unemployed workers of Ogdenville flock to Springfield. After Mayor Quimby closes Springfield’s borders and enlists private citizens to help patrol them, Homer organizes a border patrol group.

SIT DOWN, SHUT UP (8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Math Lab” â€" Season Finale

Stuart misunderstands his part in Knob Haven High’s anti-drug campaign and builds a meth lab instead of a math lab. Meanwhile, Larry takes the school’s affiliation with a pharmaceutical company a little too seriously.

FAMILY GUY (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) â€" “Three Kings” â€" Season Finale

After Peter discovers the writing of Stephen King, he imagines his family and friends in three of King’s most famous works. First, Peter, Quagmire, Cleveland and Joe â€" as 12-year-olds â€" travel along a railroad track on a journey of self-discovery narrated by Richard Dreyfuss (guest-voicing as himself). Second, Brian is injured in a bad car crash only to be “rescued” by his “number one fan,” Stewie. Finally, Cleveland and Peter become fast friends in prison.

AMERICAN DAD (9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) â€" “Stan’s Night Out” â€" Season Finale

Grammy Award winner Joss Stone guest-voices in the season finale of AMERICAN DAD. Stan leaves Francine at home to go out with the boys, but guys’ night out goes from wild to reckless when Stan finds himself in one compromising situation after another. Meanwhile, Roger and Hayley use their charm and looks to attract a frat boy.

From ABC on Wednesday:

ABC ANNOUNCES ITS SUMMER SCHEDULE, WITH THE RETURN OF “THE BACHELORETTE,” “WIPEOUT,” “HERE COME THE NEWLYWEDS” AND “I SURVIVED A JANESE GAME SHOW,” AND THE PREMIERE OF THREE NEW SERIES, “THE GOODE FAMILY,”
“THE SUPERSTARS” AND “DATING IN THE DARK”


    ABC announces its summer schedule, with the return of “The Bachelorette” on Monday, May 18; “Here Come the Newlyweds” on Monday, May 25; “Wipeout” on Wednesday, May 27; and “I Survived A Japanese Game Show” on Wednesday, July 8. Also premiering are three new series: animated comedy “The Goode Family” from Mike Judge, on Wednesday, May 27; “The Superstars,” based on the classic Wide World of Sports series, on Tuesday, June 23; and alternative series “Dating in the Dark” on Monday, July 20.

Following is a list of the upcoming programming in chronological order (all times ET):

THE BACHELORETTE â€" SPECIAL TWO-HOUR PREMIERE MONDAY, MAY 18 (9:00-11:00 p.m.), AND REGULAR TIME PERIOD PREMIERE MONDAY, MAY 25 (8:00-10:00 p.m.) â€" Jillian Harris, the intelligent, independent, passionate woman who fell just short of her goal â€" hoping that Jason Mesnick could be her best friend, soul mate and future husband on the just completed hit series of “The Bachelor” â€" will have her own opportunity to find true love, starring in the fifth edition of “The Bachelorette.” An instant fan favorite on “The Bachelor,” Jillian, 29, a restaurant interior designer, will get to choose from among a group of the country’s most eligible bachelors and is confident that she can find the love of her life on the series.

Hosted by Chris Harrison, “The Bachelorette” is produced by Next Entertainment in association with Warner Horizon Television. Mike Fleiss and Martin Hilton are the executive producers.

HERE COME THE NEWLYWEDS â€" PREMIERES MONDAY, MAY 25 (10:00-11:00 p.m.) -- The one-hour romantic comedy alternative series returns for a second season with nine just-married couples competing for a life-changing cash prize to help kick-start their new lives together and realize their dreams.  Hosted by comedian Pat Bullard, “Here Come the Newlyweds” is all about relationships, the differences between men and women and the universal issues that every couple must face. In this eight-episode series, each couple faces a variety of mental and physical challenges that will test the love and passion they have for one another, as well as their competitive spirit. At the end of each episode, the field will be narrowed as the newlyweds vote to send one couple home. The stakes get higher as the potential nest egg grows, until one couple ultimately wins the grand prize.

The executive producers of “Here Come the Newlyweds” are Jay Blumenfield and Tony Marsh (“The Road to Stardom with Missy Elliott,” “Dane Cook’s Tourgasm”). The series is produced by The Jay and Tony Show in association with Warner Horizon Television.

WIPEOUT â€" PREMIERES WEDNESDAY, MAY 27 (8:00-9:00 p.m.) â€" Bigger, better, wilder than ever! ABC’s hit series “Wipeout,” the No. 1-rated summer series across all networks, returns for Season Two as wide-eyed and energized contestants compete in the world’s largest extreme obstacle course, providing the biggest spills and best wipeouts ever seen on television.
 


The Qualifier boasts amazing new obstacles, including Plank in the Face, Hurtles and Gyro Sweeper. Brace yourself in the all new Wipeout Zone with the Catapult, Gears of Doom and more high stakes challenges. And the fan favorite obstacle -- the Big Balls -- will return, but with a twist: “The Motivator,” a massive anvil, sneaks up on contestants propelling then onto the Big Balls if they hesitate.
 
Each week, 24 daring new contestants of all ages, shapes and sizes go head to head through four rounds of demanding but hilarious obstacle courses to win the title of “Wipeout Champion” and the $50,000 grand prize. In the end, only one contestant will win, while everyone else will Wipeout!

“Wipeout” is hosted by John Henson (E! Entertainment’s “Talk Soup”) and John Anderson (ESPN’s “SportsCenter”). Jill Wagner is co-host. Executive producers are Matt Kunitz and Scott Larsen (“Fear Factor”). Shye Sutherland, Kevin Wehrenberg, Trice Barto and J. Rupert Thompson are co-executive producers. The series is produced by Endemol USA. David Goldberg is the chairman of Endemol North America.
 
THE GOODE FAMILY â€" PREMIERES WEDNESDAY, MAY 27 (9:00-9:30 p.m.) â€" “The Goode Family” is a new animated series from Mike Judge (“King of the Hill,” “Beavis and Butt-head,” “Office Space”), John Altschuler and Dave Krinsky (“King of the Hill,” “Blades of Glory”). With standards always changing, no matter how hard you try to be good, it’s virtually impossible these days . . . especially for the Goode family. Meet Gerald and Helen Goode, a couple who live by the motto WWAGD (“What Would Al Gore Do?”). Gerald, a college administrator, and Helen, a community activist, are determined to obliterate their carbon footprint on the planet: They’re zealous vegans, drive a hybrid, and recycle everything possible. Even the family dog, Che, is vegan. In the words of Helen, all the Goodes want to do is buy organic apples and call minorities by their right names. But despite their best efforts, something always goes haywire with their politically correct plans.

“The Goode Family” is voiced by Mike Judge as Gerald, Nancy Carell as Helen, Dave Herman as Ubuntu, Linda Cardellini as Bliss and Brian Doyle Murray as Charlie.

John Altschuler, Mike Judge, Dave Krinsky, Michael Rotenberg and Tom Lassally are executive producers of the series, which is produced by MRC and 3 Arts Entertainment.

THE SUPERSTARS â€" PREMIERES TUESDAY, JUNE 23 (8:00-9:00 p.m.) -- “The Superstars,” a fresh take on an old favorite, is based on ABC’s classic “Wide World of Sports” series, “The Superstars,” which pitted athletes from all different sports against each other to determine the best athlete in the world. Eight celebrities are paired with eight professional male and female athletes to compete against each other in varying sporting events. Each week a team will be eliminated until one team is ultimately crowned the winner. Competitors’ athletic prowess will be put to the test with events including swimming, biking, running and kayaking, in addition to other head-to-head athletic challenges that will test strength, speed, stamina, agility, as well as an element of strategy. The six-episode series will be shot entirely on location at the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas.

“The Superstars” is produced by Juma Entertainment and Blue Entertainment Sports Television (BEST). Robert Horowitz, president, Juma Entertainment, Lewis Fenton, head of production, Juma Entertainment, Dennis Spencer, executive vice president, BEST and Michael Principe, managing director, BEST, are the executive producers.

I SURVIVED A JANESE GAME SHOW â€" PREMIERES WEDNESDAY, JULY 8 (9:00-10:00 p.m.) â€" Going into its second season, “I Survived A Japanese Game Show” is an unscripted reality/game show -- actually a show within a show â€" that takes an eye-opening, behind-the-scenes look at 12 Americans who are whisked away to Japan to compete in the ultimate Japanese game show. The results are sure to be hilarious, as this season will be even bigger and funnier than the last. The final winner will take 



home $250,000. Returning will be the witty game show host Rome Kanda (“Pink Panther,” “Saturday Night Live”), who leads the contestants through all of the zany challenges; Mamasan, a house mother and resident pot stirrer; and Judge Bob, the rarely dynamic but always entertaining referee of the games.

The executive producers are Arthur Smith and Kent Weed for A. Smith & Co. (“Kitchen Nightmares,” “Hell’s Kitchen”); and David Sidebotham, Karsten Bartholin and Tim Crescenti for Babyfoot S Denmark. “I Survived A Japanese Game Show” is one of only four U.S. shows nominated for a Rose D’Or Award, and the series received a DGA nomination for Best Reality Competition Show.

DATING IN THE DARK â€" PREMIERES MONDAY, JULY 20 (10:00-11:00 p.m.) â€" “Dating in the Dark” is a unique alternative series that asks the age-old question, “Is Love Blind?” Each week, three single men and three single women, all looking for love, will move into a house together, but be totally sequestered from the opposite sex. While they will have no chance of seeing each other in the light, they will have the opportunity to date in a completely dark room. Looks will be taken out of the equation as the men and women get to know each other and form bonds in total darkness. After several days of dating in the darkroom, the participants will select the one member of the opposite sex that they want to see revealed in the light. For the first time, the participants will see whom they’ve been dating, wooing, kissing, snuggling with and forming bonds with. And after they see each other in the light for the first time, they have to make the difficult decision...do they stay with the person they fell for in the dark, or leave them behind? Hosted by Rossi Moreale (“Can You Duet?,” “Temptation”).

“Dating in the Dark” is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol holding, along with Talpa Content, the format department of Dutch media entrepreneur John’s de Mol’s company. David Goldberg is the North America chairman of Endemol USA. The series is executive-produced by Tom Shelley and the co-executive producer is Richard Devinki.

Airdates for the remaining episodes of “Pushing Daisies,” “Eli Stone” and “Dirty Sexy Money” were also announced, with “Pushing Daisies” returning to the schedule as of Saturday, May 30 through Saturday, June 13 at 10:00 p.m.; Eli Stone” on Saturday, June 20 through Saturday, July 11 at 10:00 p.m.; and “Dirty Sexy Money” on Saturday, July 18 through August 8 at 10:00 p.m.

Comedy “Surviving Suburbia” will move to a new night and time as of Wednesday, May 27, airing behind “The Goode Family” at 9:30 p.m.

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