NBC Upfront: Fall 2005

[Pavan]

Rough Schedule I just got:

Sundays
7:00PM Dateline NBC
8:00PM The Apprentice: Martha Stewart
9:00PM Law & Order: Criminal Intent
10:00PM Crossing Jordan

Mondays
8:00PM Fear Factor
9:00PM Las Vegas
10:00PM Medium

Tuesdays (three versions)
V1
8:00PM The Biggest Loser
9:00PM Joey
9:30PM Scrubs
10:00PM Law & Order: SVU
V2
8:00PM Joey
8:30PM MY NAME IS EARL
9:00PM The Office
9:30PM FOUR KINGS
10:00PM Law & Order: SVU
NOTE: Scrubs would be mid-season
V3
8:00PM Joey
8:30PM Scrubs
9:00PM The West Wing
10:00PM Law & Order: SVU

Wednesdays (two versions)
V1
8:00PM The West Wing
9:00PM E-RING
10:00PM Law & Order
V2
8:00PM Dateline NBC
9:00PM E-RING
10:00PM Law & Order

Thursdays
8:00PM Will & Grace
8:30PM THICK AND THIN
9:00PM The Apprentice
10:00PM ER

Fridays
8:00PM Dateline NBC
9:00PM FATHOM
10:00PM INCONCEIVABLE

Saturdays
8:00PM-11:00PM Movies/Law & Order Trio Encores





The official line-up is now in:

MONDAY
8-9 p.m. "FATHOM"
9-10 p.m. "Las Vegas"
10-11 p.m. "Medium"

TUESDAY
8-9 p.m. "The Biggest Loser"
9-9:30 p.m. "MY NAME IS EARL"
9:30-10 p.m. "The Office"
10-11 p.m. "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit"

WEDNESDAY
8-9 p.m. "THE APPRENTICE: MARTHA STEWART"
9-10 p.m. "E-RING"
10-11 p.m. "Law & Order"

THURSDAY
8-8:30 p.m. "Joey"
8:30-9 p.m. "Will & Grace"
9-10 p.m. "The Apprentice"
10-11 p.m. "ER"

FRIDAY
8-9 p.m. "THREE WISHES"
9-10 p.m. "Dateline NBC" (new time period)
10-11 p.m. "INCONCEIVABLE"

SATURDAY
8-11 p.m. "NBC SATURDAY NIGHT MOVIE"

SUNDAY
7-8 p.m. "Dateline NBC"
8-9 p.m. "The West Wing" (new day and time)
9-10 p.m. "Law & Order: Criminal Intent"
10-11 p.m. "Crossing Jordan"

[dawsongirl]

They cancelled Crossing Jordan? I didn't know that.


EDIT. lol, they changed it on me.

[db108108]

Ug.... NBC is in for another rough season. Jordan would be Sundays at 10pm

[Mr. Television]

Yea Crossing Jordan has been renewed.

I don't see any new shows on NBC I'm interested in.

[Miss Golden]

I saw this too on another website. Anyways, those two new drama's will bomb if they put them back to back on Friday Nights. I like the Joey move to Tuesday Nights, that is what I said all along. Let Will and Grace stay on Thursdays since it is probably the Last Season. If they bring the Office back and hold Scrubs till mid-season, that would hurt NBC worse.

[TJL]

Wow! Joey is moving to Tuesday?

Interesting.

[Brent88]

Originally Posted by TJL

Wow! Joey is moving to Tuesday?

Interesting.

NBC doesn't have a choice... it's too embarassing to cancel the low-rated mess.

[WilCap]

I say this is a good thing for Joey... seperates it from Friends... Thursday night was Friends night... now Tuesday night will be Joey's

[Brent88]

NBC INTRODUCES SIX NEW PRIMETIME SERIES FOR 2005-06 FALL SCHEDULE WITH ACCENT ON FRESH FACES, INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS AND PROVEN RETURNING SERIES

'MY NAME IS EARL' JOINS NBC'S COMEDY LINEUP; NEW DRAMAS ARE 'E-RING,' 'FATHOM' AND 'INCONCEIVABLE'

'THE APPRENTICE: MARTHA STEWART' AND 'THREE WISHES' ARE NEW UNSCRIPTED SERIES

NEW YORK - May 16, 2005 - NBC is emphasizing originality and big ideas in its 2005-06 Fall primetime schedule with a lineup of three new drama series, one new comedy and two unscripted series - continuing its tradition of fresh faces and innovative concepts built on a strong foundation of quality returning series.

The annual program announcement was made today by Jeff Zucker, President, NBC Universal Television Group and Kevin Reilly, President, NBC Entertainment, before the advertising community, affiliates and press at Radio City Music Hall.

"We're very excited and encouraged by the lineup we're presenting today," said Zucker. "I'm confident that we have addressed our schedule needs and will continue to excel in drawing the advertiser-friendly, upscale viewers who have come to appreciate NBC's quality brand of programming."

"NBC viewers will see fresh talent and bold, original concepts in our new series next year," said Reilly, "Our goal is to create real excitement, especially at 8 p.m., which will pay dividends throughout each night. We're eager to be number one again, and this freshman class, combined with NBC's powerful core schedule and recent successes like "Medium," "The Biggest Loser" and "The Office," represent a major step toward getting there."

Highlights of the 2005-06 season include the new dramas: "E-Ring" (Wednesdays, 9-10 p.m. ET), a suspenseful drama from standout producer Jerry Bruckheimer set inside the Pentagon that stars Benjamin Bratt (NBC's "Law & Order") and Dennis Hopper ("Speed"); "Fathom" (Mondays, 8-9 p.m. ET), an ambitious action-adventure about a mysterious new form of sea life that begins to appear in oceans all over the earth; and "Inconceivable" (Fridays, 10-11 p.m. ET), a serialized ensemble drama set inside a fertility clinic, starring Jonathan Cake ("Fallen") and Ming-Na (NBC's "ER").

The new comedy being added in the fall is the smart, fresh "My Name Is Earl" (Tuesdays, 9-9:30 p.m. ET), starring Jason Lee ("Almost Famous"), as a young man who has taken one too many wrong turns on the highway of life but is now determined to make amends.

In keeping with NBC's strategy of launching series all year long, additional new comedies for next season include "Four Kings," from Emmy Award winners David Kohan and Max Mutchnick, the creators of "Will & Grace," and "Thick and Thin," from multi Emmy-Award-winning producer Lorne Michaels, and starring Jessica Capshaw ("The Practice") as a once overweight woman who embarks on a new journey as a fit and newly single woman.

The fall lineup also includes two new unscripted series, "The Apprentice: Martha Stewart") on Wednesdays (8-9 p.m. ET) and "Three Wishes" on Fridays (8-9 p.m. ET), hosted by popular recording artist Amy Grant.

Fan favorites "Scrubs" and "Fear Factor" will also return to the NBC schedule at some point next season.

Additional Fall schedule changes include the move of four-time Emmy winner "The West Wing" to Sundays (8-9 p.m. ET); and the return of the critically acclaimed freshman comedy "The Office" on Tuesdays (9:30-10 p.m. ET). "Dateline NBC" moves up an hour on Fridays (to 9-10 p.m. ET).

(Please see accompanying release for details of NBC's longform programming for 2005-06).

Following is NBC's primetime series schedule for the Fall 2005-06 season. Nightly strategy and show descriptions follow (all times are Eastern).

NBC PRIMETIME SCHEDULE FOR 2005-06

*New programs in CAPS (with the exception of "ER")

MONDAY
8-9 p.m. "FATHOM"
9-10 p.m. "Las Vegas"
10-11 p.m. "Medium"

TUESDAY
8-9 p.m. "The Biggest Loser"
9-9:30 p.m. "MY NAME IS EARL"
9:30-10 p.m. "The Office"
10-11 p.m. "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit"

WEDNESDAY
8-9 p.m. "THE APPRENTICE: MARTHA STEWART"
9-10 p.m. "E-RING"
10-11 p.m. "Law & Order"

THURSDAY
8-8:30 p.m. "Joey"
8:30-9 p.m. "Will & Grace"
9-10 p.m. "The Apprentice"
10-11 p.m. "ER"

FRIDAY
8-9 p.m. "THREE WISHES"
9-10 p.m. "Dateline NBC" (new time period)
10-11 p.m. "INCONCEIVABLE"

SATURDAY
8-11 p.m. "NBC SATURDAY NIGHT MOVIE"

SUNDAY
7-8 p.m. "Dateline NBC"
8-9 p.m. "The West Wing" (new day and time)
9-10 p.m. "Law & Order: Criminal Intent"
10-11 p.m. "Crossing Jordan"

NIGHT-BY-NIGHT PRIMETIME STRATEGY

MONDAY
"Fathom," one of the season's most ambitious new series, will launch a night of great dramas on NBC, occupying a time period that has been established as an optimal place for family viewing on NBC. "Las Vegas" one year ago was television's number one freshman drama in adults 18-49 and is this season's number one sophomore drama - continuing to deliver a young, upscale audience, despite facing intense competition. "Medium" -- one of the most successful new dramas this season -- improved NBC's 10:00 p.m. performance by nearly 100 percent and delivered the network's highest rating for a Monday drama in 15 seasons.

TUESDAY
"The Biggest Loser," which quietly became one of the biggest winners of this past season (improving ratings in that hour versus other regular programming by 116 percent), has potential to open the night strongly. At 9:00 p.m., "My Name Is Earl" is an innovative, irreverent, single-camera comedy that should work well as a lead-in to the critically hailed "The Office" (television's most upscale comedy). The night concludes with the winning "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," which this season delivered its biggest 18-49 audience ever and NBC's most dominant time period win in the history of People Meters.

WEDNESDAY
NBC alters its usual Wednesday-night landscape of three consecutive dramas by opening with the unscripted drama "Martha Stewart: The Apprentice," a buzz-worthy extension of a great franchise that's aimed at jump-starting the night. Executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer's new drama "E-Ring" features high-stakes, theatrical-style action and an appealing cast. NBC's venerable "Law & Order" assumes its usual spot on Wednesdays for a 16th year. The drama took on the challenge of intense competition this season and held its own, continuing to dominate the hour in upscale viewers.

THURSDAY
This season, NBC's Thursday lineup was the most upscale night on network television in adults 18-49 living in homes with incomes of $75,000 or more. "Joey" returns as the season's number one new fall comedy and Emmy winner "Will & Grace" enters its final season, having delivered its best season ever in upscale demographics. "The Apprentice" with Donald Trump remains solidly upscale while "ER" - entering its 12th season still on target creatively -- continues to provide choice demographic delivery at night's end. The medical drama has been NBC's number one drama for every one of its 11 seasons.

FRIDAY
A reconstituted Friday night includes the emotionally powerful unscripted series "Three Wishes" leading into "Dateline NBC," which makes its return to the 9:00 p.m. hour it long inhabited. "Inconceivable" is a new serialized drama set in a fertility clinic that has contemporary appeal for young married adults as it sifts through thorny ethical and emotional issues.

SATURDAY
Box office hits such as "Chicago," "The Italian Job" and "Scary Movie" make their premiere on NBC as the network shifts back to the long tradition of broadcasting movies on Saturdays. Additionally, NBC will occasionally schedule repeat episodes of current series to expose viewers to programs they otherwise might not have the chance to see.

SUNDAY
"Dateline NBC" once again opens NBC's Sunday, while the addition of a newly re-energized "The West Wing" should also reinvigorate NBC's fortunes at that hour. The balance of Sundays remains the same with "Law & Order: Criminal Intent"- showcasing Chris Noth as he returns to join series star Vincent D'Onofrio in the brand that made him a star. "Crossing Jordan" caps off the week for NBC having retained 98% of its 18-49 lead-in to keep NBC a competitive number two in the hour.

2005-06 NEW SERIES DESCRIPTIONS

New Comedies

"MY NAME IS EARL" --Earl (Jason Lee, "Almost Famous," "Chasing Amy") has taken one too many wrong turns on the highway of life. A bully and a low-rent crook, Earl wins a lottery and after an epiphany, he is determined to turn his good fortune into a life-changing event as he sets out to right all the wrongs from his past. Despite his seemingly limited intelligence, he is oddly effective -- and ultimately, the comedy series, like Earl himself, has a voice and style all its own. Written and executive-produced by Greg Garcia ("Yes, Dear"), "Earl" also stars Jamie Pressly ("Not Another Teen Movie") as Earl's wife Joy, Ethan Suplee ("Cold Mountain") as his hapless brother, and Nadine Velazquez ("The Bold and the Beautiful") as a hotel maid whom the brothers befriend. "My Name Is Earl" is produced by Twentieth Century Fox Television.

Additional Comedies

"FOUR KINGS" -- Emmy Award winners David Kohan and Max Mutchnick, creators of the award-winning comedy "Will & Grace," present "Four Kings," an exploration of four lifelong friends on the cusp of adulthood: Barry (Seth Green, the "Austin Powers" franchise, "The Italian Job"), Bobby (Shane McRae, "One Life to Live"), Ben (Josh Cooke, "Committed") and Jason (Todd Grinnell, "The Dangling Conversation") couldn't imagine life without one another. Since childhood, these bosom buddies haven't spent so much as a birthday apart, but when Ben's grandmother, who dubbed them the "Four Kings of New York," passes away, Ben inherits her apartment and decides to share it with his lifelong friends. But despite the comfort of their posh new surroundings and efforts to cling to their youth, adulthood begins drawing these Four Kings knee-deep into situations that aren't always easy to escape in this honest exploration of life-term friendship. "Four Kings" is produced by KoMut Entertainment in association with Warner Bros. Television. David Kohan and Max Mutchnick are the creators and executive producers. James Burrows ("Will & Grace," "Friends") directed the pilot.

"THICK AND THIN" -- From multi Emmy-Award winning producer Lorne Michaels' Broadway Video Television comes this half-hour comedy about Mary (Jessica Capshaw, "The Practice"), a formerly fat woman who embarks on a new journey as a fit and newly single woman. That's easier said than done, however, when Mary's family and friends still see her as her former self. They include her overweight mother (multiple Emmy winner Sharon Gless, "Cagney and Lacey"), her overweight younger sister (newcomer Amy Halloran), her father (Martin Mull, "Roseanne"), and her weight-loss program buddy (Mel Rodriguez, "Panic Room"). But it is at the pool-and-spa company franchise she owns in suburban Florida that she finds her most unlikely confidant, her brother-in-law (Chris Parnell, NBC's "Saturday Night Live"), the company's "leotard-ed" spokesperson named "Captain Chlorine." When a cringe-worthy misstep lands her in bed with her ex, she realizes that getting thin was less about pleasing others -- and more about being comfortable in her own skin. Emmy Award winner Paula Pell ("Saturday Night Live") is the series' creator and writer of the pilot. The executive producers are Lorne Michaels (NBC's "Saturday Night Live") and JoAnn Alfano ("The Tracy Morgan Show"). Gail Mancuso ("Roseanne") directed the pilot. "Thick and Thin" is from by Broadway Video Television in association with NBC Universal Television Studio.

New Dramas

"E-RING" -- Executive producer Jerry Bruckheimer ("CSI" franchise), Oscar-nominated director/producer Taylor Hackford ("Ray") and stars Benjamin Bratt ("Traffic," "Law & Order") and Dennis Hopper ("Easy Rider," "Speed") join forces in this pulsating drama set inside the nation's ultimate fortress: the Pentagon. It's a hub of highly explosive conflicts between American military heroes and the civilians to whom they report -- a world where crises can escalate into life-and-death climaxes, for individuals or entire nations. Viewers witness critical decisions by intelligence officers in the war room and the execution of these decisions by covert special ops on the battlefield. The number-one mission is survival of the state - an often-delicate balance between protecting the homeland and protecting either all of mankind or the life of a lone soldier. Jerry Bruckheimer Television in association with Warner Bros. Television produces "E-Ring." Thirty-time Emmy nominee Bruckheimer serves as executive producer along with Jonathan Littman ("The Amazing Race," "CSI: NY") and David McKenna ("S.W.A.T.," "Blow"). McKenna also wrote the pilot, which was directed by Hackford.

"FATHOM" -- Ever wonder what life would be like if a new form of sea life began to appear in locales all over the earth? In this expansive drama, those who are about to find out include some naval officers in the South Antarctic Sea, a family in San Diego, scientists from the Oceanographic Institute in Monterey, and fishermen in the Gulf of Mexico. The seemingly innocent creatures they find are beautiful and kids may even want to play with them -- but is there something more to them? One thing's for sure - they're full of surprises as viewers can embark on this unfathomable journey to discover what might be lurking in the sea. Lake Bell ("Boston Legal") stars as Daughtery Carstarphen, along with Jay R. Ferguson ("Judging Amy") as Richard Owen, Rade Serbedzija ("Snatch") as Dr. Aleksander Cirko, and Carter Jenkins ("CSI: NY") as Miles. "Fathom" is from NBC Universal Television Studio and was created by Josh and Jonas Pate ("Dragnet"), who also serve as executive producers.

"INCONCEIVABLE" -- Come inside the world of the doctors of the Family Options Fertility Clinic in this ensemble drama, where one of the most complicated questions is to conceive -- or not to conceive. Assuredly, theirs is a noble quest as they help desperate couples give birth; however, clinic co-founders Dr. Malcolm Bower (Jonathan Cake, "Fallen") and Rachael Lew (Ming-Na, NBC's Emmy-winning "ER") and their staff, including psychologist Lydia Crawford (guest-starring Alfre Woodard, "Beauty Shop"), Nurse Patrice (Joelle Carter, "American Pie 2"), office manager Marrissa (Mary Catherine Garrison, "How to Deal") and attorney Scott (David Norona, "Mr. Sterling") are not above their own occasional adventures involving sex, deception and secrets. As viewers navigate through the ultrasound and super-egos, the missing frozen embryos and impending malpractice suits, it's positively clear that life inside this clinic is anything but sterile. "Inconceivable" is a Tollin-Robbins production in association with Touchstone Television. Mike Tollin ("Smallville"), Brian Robbins ("Smallville"), Joe Davola ("Smallville"), Oliver Goldstick ("Desperate Housewives") and Marco Pennette ("What I Like About You") serve as executive producers.

New Unscripted Series

"THE APPRENTICE: MARTHA STEWART" -- "The Apprentice: Martha Stewart" will retain the general format of the original alternative series, including weekly eliminations; however, the style and feel of this new show will be tailored to Martha Stewart's personality and brand identity. The tasks will be centered around Stewart's areas of expertise: media, home renovation, entertaining, design, merchandising, technology and style. Stewart will bring her own sensibilities and creativity to the elimination process which will feature two of her most trusted colleagues who help her make the decision each week. Mark Burnett is creator and executive producer of "The Apprentice: Martha Stewart." Donald J. Trump and Jay Bienstock are also executive producers. Conrad Riggs and Kevin Harris are co-executive producers. "THREE WISHES" -- Five-time Grammy-winning recording artist Amy Grant ("Rock of Ages...Hymns & Faith") stars in this hour-long, unscripted series in which she leads a team of experts to a small town to "grant" wishes to help make the hopes and unbelievable dreams of deserving people come true. Viewers will follow some of the town folks' deeply personal and heartwarming stories as Grant and her team transform these hopes into a life-changing reality. The full spectrum of wishes ranges from paying tribute to an unsung hero to helping a despairing family in the grip of a loved one's life-threatening medical crisis. Additional "wish" examples include: tearful reunions with long-lost relatives; living out a mind-blowing sports fantasy, and helping to save a dedicated teacher's job. Carpenter Carter Oosterhouse ("Trading Spaces"), contractor Eric Stromer ("Clean Sweep") and architect Amanda Miller ("Knock First") comprise Grant's team of experts. Andrew Glassman (NBC's "Average Joe 1-4") and Jason Raff (NBC's "Average Joe 1-4") are the executive producers, and Tony Croll (NBC's "Average Joe") is the director of this pilot from Glassman Media and NBC Universal Television Studio.

[Brent88]

NBC UNVEILS PROVOCATIVE LONGFORM EVENTS AS WELL AS EXCITING ENTERTAINMENT AND MUSIC SPECIALS FOR 2005-06

Lineup Includes Miniseries "The 9/11 Project" and "10.5" Sequel; Three-Hour Movie Remake of "The Poseidon Adventure"; "Saturday Night Live" '80s Tribute; 2006 Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe Awards; Musical Specials Starring Elton John, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Lopez, Faith Hill and Tim McGraw

NEW YORK - May 16, 2005 - NBC introduced a varied lineup of longform programs and specials for the 2005-06 season headed by such events as the seminal miniseries, "The 9/11 Project," the earthshaking miniseries sequel "10.5: Apocalypse"; a three-hour modern classic remake of "The Poseidon Adventure," a "Saturday Night Live" salute to the '80s special, telecasts of the Primetime Emmy Awards and the Golden Globes Awards, plus musical specials featuring popular artists Elton John, Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Lopez.

The announcement was made today at the network's annual Upfront presentation by Kevin Reilly, President, NBC Entertainment, and Jeff Gaspin, President, NBC Universal Cable Entertainment & Cross Platform Strategy.

"NBC will have the lion's share of premier event programming next year," said Reilly. "We are fortunate to have the respected award-winning creative team behind the upcoming 'The 9/11 Project' miniseries. We understand the enormity of this history-changing event and recognize these moving stories will have an impact on viewers everywhere."

"A variety of our projects span the spectrum from dramatic longform events to major entertainment shows and music specials," said Gaspin. "This year, NBC will have two of the crown jewels of glamour awards shows with the Emmys and the Golden Globes in 2006 and our longform programs are well-positioned for showcase roles in next season's lineup."

In addition, NBC will offer such traditional favorites as "The 79th Macy's Thanksgiving Day ParadeTM," "Christmas in Rockefeller Center," the 117th "Tournament of Roses Parade" in 2006, "Miss USA/Universe," "The National Dog Show Presented by Purina" and "The Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks(r) Spectacular."

Following are program descriptions for some of NBC's longform programs in 2005-06:

"The 9/11 Project" - The seminal miniseries "The 9/11 Project" will chronicle the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 as it features a high-pedigreed ensemble that includes Emmy Award-winning executive producer and writer Graham Yost ("From Earth to the Moon," "Boomtown") and executive producers Brian Grazer, Ron Howard and David Nevins. Also on board are consultants Peter Lance ("1,000 Years for Revenge: International Terrorism and the FBI - the Untold Story.") and Steve Coll ("Ghost Wars: the Secret History of the CIA, Afghanistan and Bin Laden, from the Soviet Invasion to September 10, 2001"), and writer Fred Golan (NBC's "Law & Order: Trial by Jury," "Boomtown"). In addition, The New York Times will consult on the project.

The programming event will define and explore the dramatic circumstances leading up to - and including - the tragic assault on America of September 11, 2001. "The 9/11 Project" is produced by NBC Universal Television Studio, Imagine Television and Twentieth Television.

"10.5: APOCALYPSE" - Last May, NBC unleashed a powerful ratings temblor in its hit miniseries "10.5" - and the possibility of the ultimate disaster looms large in the sequel "10.5: Apocalypse." Kim Delaney, David Cubitt and Beau Bridges will return to star as they reprise their roles from "10.5" and are joined by new cast members Frank Langella, "Superman Returns") and Carlos Bernard ("24"). John Lafia ("The Dead Zone") also returns to write and direct and also serve as co-executive producer of the new miniseries. Likewise, Howard Braunstein and Michael Jaffe (both from "10.5") will be back on board as executive producers; Gary Pearl ("10.5") also will serve as executive producer.

"THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE" -- NBC presents an edge-of-your-seat new version of the classic disaster film "The Poseidon Adventure" that brings the story into the 21st century. The three-hour movie stars Steve Guttenberg ("Single Santa Seeks Mrs. Claus," "Cocoon"), Rutger Hauer ("Batman Begins"), Peter Weller ("Mighty Aphrodite," "RoboCop"), Alexa Hamilton ("Santa Barbara"), Bryan Brown ("Along Came Polly," "Gorillas in the Mist"), C. Thomas Howell ("Hidalgo"), Adam Baldwin ("The Patriot") and Sylvia Syms ("What a Girl Wants"). While the 1972 Irwin Allen-produced blockbuster featured a large cruise ship that foundered under a tsunami wave, in this new version a diverse group of passengers and crew members struggle to survive after a terrorist bomb causes the cruise ship to capsize on New Year's Eve. As time runs out, the small band of survivors must find a way to stay alive until rescuers arrive. "The Poseidon Adventure" is a Hallmark Entertainment presentation of a Silverstar Limited production in association with Larry Levinson Productions. Robert Halmi Jr. (television's "The Lion in Winter") and Larry Levinson (the 2004 television miniseries "Frankenstein") are the executive producers; John Putch ("Grounded for Life") is the director. Bryce Zabel ("Dark Skies") wrote the teleplay based on author Paul Gallico's novel.

"BEHIND THE CAMERA: THE UNAUTHORIZED STORY OF 'DIFF'RENT STROKES" -- NBC will re-visit one of television's most popular comedy series, "Diff'rent Strokes," with a new movie that serves as a powerful cautionary tale about the tragedies and challenges facing the child stars of the sitcom. Original cast members Gary Coleman and Todd Bridges will serve as consultants on the movie and will also appear in on-camera interviews. "Behind the Camera: The Unauthorized Story of 'Diff'rent Strokes'" takes viewers behind the scenes of the popular sitcom and also follows the lives of Coleman, Bridges and Dana Plato in the years after the series went off the air as their lives spiraled downward. In addition, the project also takes a look at the pitfalls of child stardom. The movie is executive-produced by Stanley M. Brooks (NBC's "Behind the Camera: The Unauthorized Story of 'Three's Company'") and Scott W. Anderson ("Confessions of a Sociopathic Social Climber"), with Damian Ganczewski ("Call Me: The Rise and Fall of Heidi Fleiss") producing. Robert Iscove ("She's All That") directs from a script written by Greg Pincus and Susan Rinehart.

Following are program descriptions for some of NBC's specials in 2005-06:

"LIVE FROM NEW YORK: SNL - THE '80S" (working title) - Following the success of the 2005 special commemorating the first five years of "Saturday Night Live" --about which TV Guide raved "...vividly entertaining...a 10" - "Live from New York: SNL The 80s" pays tribute to the first full decade in this revolutionary show's history. NBC proudly presents an all new two-hour primetime special featuring a look back at the legendary sketches such as "I'm Gumby, Damn it!", The Church Lady, "Yeah...that's the ticket" and Hanz and Franz and artists that instilled a hilarious legacy that still thrives today. Featuring classic clips, contemporary interviews with key cast members of the era, and never-before-seen footage from such iconic players as Dana Carvey, Dennis Miller, Billy Crystal, Kevin Nealon, Eddie Murphy, Phil Hartman, and Jon Lovitz, this special promises to be a real treat for fans of yesterday and today. As he did in "The First Five Years," Kenneth Bowser will again serve as producer, writer and director as this special explores the "second act" in one of television's longest-running and most influential shows.

"THE 58TH ANNUAL PRIMETIME EMMY AWARDS" - Television's biggest night features the medium's biggest stars of past and present as America's favorite small-screen stars vie for the industry's top award - the Emmy - in 2006.

"THE 63RD ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS" -- For the 11th consecutive year, NBC will showcase the glittering awards ceremony that has become known as Hollywood's hottest ticket event for its intimate setting and relaxed, festive atmosphere. The Golden Globes are regarded to be a solid indicator of TV's Emmy and feature film's Oscar prospects as well as an internationally recognized honor in its own right for both the film and television industries. On only one night can Hollywood's A-list of film and television stars be found celebrating together in one location. Originating "live" from the International Ballroom of the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, the special will be produced by dick clark productions in association with the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. Dick Clark (NBC's "American Dreams") and Barry Adelman are the executive producers.

"CHRISTMAS IN ROCKEFELLER CENTER 2005" - NBC's holiday tradition continues afresh with its live, eighth-annual national telecast of the 73rd celebration of the world's most famous Christmas tree in the star-studded, one-hour special from Rockefeller Center in New York City. The popular musical lineup will include a mix of current hits along with holiday music. "Christmas in Rockefeller Center" is produced for a national audience by NBC Entertainment in association with WNBC.

"79TH ANNUAL MACY'S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADETM" -- NBC and Telemundo inaugurate the holiday season by stepping off with the network's traditional and exclusive coverage of the 79th annual "Macy's Thanksgiving Day ParadeTM" on Thursday, November 24. Celebrities will join the usual pomp of the mid-town Manhattan parade, which will include floats, bands from New York to Hawaii, giant character helium balloons, "Falloons," equestrian units, and other special attractions. The traditional end of the colorful and diverse parade will bring Santa Claus and his sleigh to signal the start of the Christmas season.

"THE MACY'S FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS(r) SPECTACULAR" - America's largest fireworks display returns in this annual extravaganza live from New York City with shooting stars as well as musical and movie stars. The pyrotechnic special will also be accompanied by music with this year's theme, "The Light of Freedom." "Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks(r) Spectacular" will pay tribute to the nation's 229th birthday on Monday, July 4.

MISS USA/MISS UNIVERSE AND MISS TEEN USA 2006 -- NBC will once again broadcast Miss Universe, Miss USA and Miss Teen USA in 2006. These live, two-hour primetime telecasts will be broadcast from locations around the world. NBC and Donald Trump -- equal partners in the Miss Universe Organization, which produces the Miss Universe, Miss USA and Miss Teen USA Pageants, continues to introduce production changes to redefine the competition for 21st century women. The Miss Universe Organization, producers of the Miss Universe*, Miss USA* and Miss Teen USA* Pageants, is a Donald J. Trump and National Broadcasting Company, Inc. (NBC) partnership.

"THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA(r)" -- This fourth annual two-hour family entertainment special has become a major event in the dog show world, sanctioned by the AKC. The special will spotlight conformation judging of the finest show dogs from over 150 breeds and varieties in competition for "Best in Show" as the centerpiece of a family-oriented celebration of the world of canines. Expert commentary by David Frei, the dean of dog show commentators.

"ELTON JOHN: LIVE FROM LAS VEGAS" -- Music sensation Sir Elton John brings his popular and critically acclaimed Las Vegas show to NBC in November 2005. Heralded as "the most exciting show in Las Vegas for 2004" by the Las Vegas Review Journal, John's show, filmed at Caesar's Palace, treats fans to their all-time favorite songs from his more than three decades of performing. As one of the top-selling solo artists of all time with over 200 million records sold worldwide, John has garnered a wide array of industry awards, including Grammys, Tonys and an Oscar, and continues to add innovative work to his personal repertoire of 35 gold and 25 platinum albums. In December 2004, John received the Kennedy Center Honor for his lifetime contributions to American culture and excellence through the performing arts. Emmy Award winner Rocky Oldman (NBC's "Cher: The Farewell Tour") is executive producer and Dave Mallet is the show director.

"THE JAMIE FOXX SPECIAL" (tentative title) - A unique music special showcasing the talents of Oscar and Golden Globe winner Jamie Foxx (for details, please see accompanying release).

"JENNIFER LOPEZ SPECIAL" -- Superstar Jennifer Lopez will perform live in concert singing her catalog of hits as well as the songs from her newest album, Rebirth.

"THE FAITH HILL SPECIAL" - Faith Hill has taken the country music world by storm in just six years as the singing superstar has sold more than 11 million records, garnered eight #1 singles and earned 10 #1 music videos. This past year alone, she received numerous nominations and awards from the Country Music Association, the Grammy Awards, the Academy of Country Music Awards, Blockbuster Awards and the TNN Music City Awards. Hill takes center stage for her second special on NBC in this eventful, one-hour special.

"THE TIM MCGRAW SPECIAL" - One of the most popular country music artists of all time is back on NBC as Tim McGraw hosts his second primetime special for the network. Expect McGraw to dazzle fans in the audience and at home in this two-hour special with his chart-topping country hits such as "Down on the Farm" and "I Like It, I Love It," among others. Some of today's top recording artists will join the country legend for electrifying duets covering both pop and rock music. "2005 RADIO MUSIC AWARDS" - The biggest names in music will be in Las Vegas to celebrate their successes at the 2005 Radio Music Awards (RMAs). Regarded by the music industry as the "Golden Globes" of the music award shows because of its casual, party-like style, the newest edition promises to be even bigger than ever. In its first two years on NBC, the RMAs featured the most celebrated names in music, including Elton John, Destiny's Child, Chingy, Tim McGraw, Nelly and Tom Petty. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and Janet Jackson were each honored in the two previous years with the Legend Award.

[Brent88]

What I'll be watching... well, it's an improvement over right now at least.

WEDNESDAY
9-10 p.m. "E-RING"

THURSDAY
9-10 p.m. "The Apprentice"

SUNDAY
8-9 p.m. "The West Wing" (new day and time)

[Brian Damage]

I think moving Joey to Tuesdays is a very wise move.

[Brent88]

Originally Posted by Brian Damage

I think moving Joey to Tuesdays is a very wise move.

It didn't happen. Still Thursdays at 8

If ABC is aggressive on that night like I'm thinking, NBC is dead(it's wounded right now). It gets 2nd because ABC and FOX suck more.

[Pavan]

Thoughts...

MONDAY
8-9 p.m. "FATHOM"
9-10 p.m. "Las Vegas"
10-11 p.m. "Medium"
I guess this will do OK, but I don't think Fathom could start up the night.

TUESDAY
8-9 p.m. "The Biggest Loser"
9-9:30 p.m. "MY NAME IS EARL"
9:30-10 p.m. "The Office"
10-11 p.m. "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit"
What the hell? A new sitcom anchoring an hour and not Scrubs? What a mess this night will be. I wonder what they'll do when The Biggest Loser's episodes run out, since it starts in August.

WEDNESDAY
8-9 p.m. "THE APPRENTICE: MARTHA STEWART"
9-10 p.m. "E-RING"
10-11 p.m. "Law & Order"
I have a feeling Martha Stewart's version will get killed by Lost, unless Lost is being moved to 9pm, which seems very possible now, and even if Lost isn't being moved, it'll still get killed by something. I doubt E-RING will last.

THURSDAY
8-8:30 p.m. "Joey"
8:30-9 p.m. "Will & Grace"
9-10 p.m. "The Apprentice"
10-11 p.m. "ER"
After all that, they kept it the same. Look for more erosion from 8-10pm.

FRIDAY
8-9 p.m. "THREE WISHES"
9-10 p.m. "Dateline NBC" (new time period)
10-11 p.m. "INCONCEIVABLE"
CBS should now bring back Joan of Arcadia. It will now win its hour for sure.

SATURDAY
8-11 p.m. "NBC SATURDAY NIGHT MOVIE"
Even on a Saturday NBC made another mistake. The Law & Order theater does much better than the movies.

SUNDAY
7-8 p.m. "Dateline NBC"
8-9 p.m. "The West Wing" (new day and time)
9-10 p.m. "Law & Order: Criminal Intent"
10-11 p.m. "Crossing Jordan"
Nothing NBC will do on Sundays will keep them from beating ABC and CBS on Sundays. The West Wing vs. Cold Case should be interesting, but 'Case' will win, with EM: HE, if that is still at 8pm, will win in adults.

Just 4 sitcoms? Pathetic. And 2 of them are one camera and the other two are declining each week on Thursdays.

[Raisingdad2004]

That sitcom count is pathetic, This network used to be a strong hold for sitcoms - They have hardly attempeted any new sitcosm. Its a real disappointment.