Showing posts with label Game of Thrones. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Game of Thrones. Show all posts

Q and A: Week of Feb. 2

Q: I keep hearing great things about the FX series “Fargo,” but I don’t have cable. Is it out on DVD, or is there another way I can watch it? — Frannie D., Springfield, Ill.

A: Season one of this wonderful FX drama/suspense series — starring Billy Bob Thornton, Colin Hanks, Allison Tolman and Martin Freeman — is now available on DVD. And Hulu recently announced that it has acquired the streaming rights for the series. No exact date has been announced, only that we should be on the lookout for it ahead of the series’ season two premiere this fall on FX.

Q: Can you tell me when “Game of Thrones” will be back for a new season? — Bobby T., via email

A: The phenomenal drama/historical-fantasy series will be back for its fifth season on April 12 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. HBO also revealed that “Silicon Valley” would be begin its second season at 10 p.m., following the “GoT” premiere, and season four of “Veep” will follow that at 10:30 p.m. All three series will have 10-episode seasons.

In the meantime, you can relive some of season four on the big screen in IMAX format before that. In limited release (about 150 IMAX theaters), the last two episodes of season four’s “Game of Thrones” will be shown the way lots of fans think it should be aired all the time: in movie theaters. Those who do attend these limited showings will also be treated to an exclusive trailer for season five. Check your local listings to see if it is on the big screen in your town. According to “Entertainment Weekly,” there have also been reports of a season-five preview special to air on HBO, perhaps as soon as February. Fingers crossed for that too!

Q: My husband recently introduced me to the “Evil Dead” movies. He heard they are making it into a TV series. Is that true? — Nancy P. in Indiana

A: Your husband heard correctly. Starz is bringing the series to the small screen via an original series called “Ash vs. Evil Dead,” which takes place after the action of the movie series. The series’ star and the director of “Evil Dead” — Bruce Campbell and Sam Raimi, respectively — are set to return to the production, which will consist of 10 half-hour episodes. The story begins three decades later, where Ash (Campbell) is forced to face his demons and fight the Evil Dead yet again when a Deadite plague threatens to destroy all mankind.

Bryce Dallas Howard and Chris Pratt in Jurassic World

Q: I know the project is all hush-hush, but is there anything you can tell me about “Jurassic World”? — George F., Montgomery, Ala.

A: Recently I spoke with James DuMont, who just finished another wonderfully disturbing season of “American Horror Story,” and who also plays a role in the sure-to-be summer blockbuster, which opens June 12. However, things are so hush-hush that he can’t even tell me what role he plays. This is what he could tell me: “I can’t tell you anything about story, plot, my character. I’ve signed all these very heavy-duty nondisclosure agreements up and down the street. But the good news to tell you is that it’s amazing. The cast is amazing. There are so many cool things about this movie. They got it right. Steven Spielberg’s on board. The director, Colin Trevorrow, is amazing. I think it’s going to be a really, really good movie. I’m just excited to be a part of a big movie like this.” Stop by tomorrow to read my entire interview with James.

Q: All last year I read rumors about a “Wet Hot American Summer” sequel, even on your Twitter feed, but I’ve seen neither hide nor hair of it anywhere. Is this really going to happen? — Megan M., via Facebook

A: I have good news for you, and for lovers of this outrageous and brilliant comedy everywhere. There will indeed be a sequel, but not in feature-film form. Netflix, which is quickly becoming my favorite outlet for original programming, has picked it up for an eight-episode limited series. And pretty much all of the film’s original stars will return: Elizabeth Banks, H. Jon Benjamin, Michael Ian Black, Bradley Cooper, Judah Friedlander, Janeane Garofalo, Nina Hellman, Ken Marino, Zak Orth, David Hyde Pierce, Joe LoTruglio, Christopher Meloni, A.D. Miles, Marguerite Moreau, Amy Poehler, Paul Rudd, Marisa Ryan, Molly Shannon, Michael Showalter and Kevin Sussman. To say that I am excited about this doesn’t nearly cover the emotions I am feeling about this series. I’m thinking you’re feeling the same way right about now.

Q: I loved your interview with CCH Pounder about “NCIS: New Orleans” a few months back, and I love the show. Will it be back for another season? — Janice T., via email

A: “NCIS: New Orleans,” which is the No. 1 new TV series on broadcast television, has indeed received a second season pickup from CBS. “Madam Secretary,” which is the No. 2 most watched new series, and “Scorpion,” which is No. 3, have both also received a second season.

Q and A: Week of May 19

Q: I read about Rainbow Rowell’s “Eleanor and Park” in your column a while back, and now I hear it’s going to be a movie. I’m so happy to hear this because I loved the book. Will she be writing the screenplay for the movie as well? — Staci R., via email

A: Rainbow has indeed been tapped to write the screenplay for her first movie, and she’s thrilled for the opportunity. I asked Rainbow how it all came about, and who she sees in the parts of Eleanor and Park. “I’d been talking to DreamWorks for a few months about it. I was nervous at first because the book is so much in my control, and a film is an entirely different organism. But I kept thinking about how wonderful it would be to see Park and Eleanor on that screen. The studio and producer, Carla Hacken, seem really dedicated to bringing the book to life. I'm excited.”

As for who should play the teenage sweethearts, Rainbow is up for anything. “I don't have anyone in mind. It’s hard to imagine established actors in the roles, because there just aren’t that many starring roles for a chubby redhead and a 16-year-old Korean boy, which makes it all the more exciting.”

Q: Thank you for the update on Sharon Lawrence. She’s been one of my favorite actresses since “NYPD Blue.” Will she be in a series on a regular basis any time soon? — Denise K., via email

A: Amazon.com recently gave the greenlight to Chris Carter’s (writer/creator of “The X-Files”) latest supernatural drama called “The After,” which follows eight strangers who are thrown together by mysterious forces and must help each other survive in a violent world that defies explanation. The series stars Sharon, as well as Aldis Hodge, Andrew Howard, Arielle Kebbel, Jamie Kennedy, Jaina Lee Ortiz, Adrian Pasdar and Louise Monot. You can watch the pilot episode now on amazon.com; there is no word yet on a premiere date for the rest of the season, but it will be later this year or early next.

Q: I was surprised when David Letterman announced he was going to retire in 2015. Who will take his place on “The Late Show”? — Myra T., Birmingham, Ala.

A: Stephen Colbert is set to bring his brand of “truthiness” to “The Late Show,” as he’s been slated to take over for David upon his retirement at the end of this year. It was recently learned that CBS first approached Neil Patrick Harris as David’s replacement, a job offer that Neil subsequently turned down. When Neil appeared on Howard Stern’s show last week, he told the shock jock: “I told [them] the things that concerned me about the longevity of that kind of gig, that I think I would get bored of the repetition fast, and that the structure of it is so set, that I don’t have any interest in doing monologue, commercial, sketch, guest, guest, musical act, goodnight.“ He did pitch a variety show of sorts, which might get to see the light of day, if Neil has his druthers.

Q: I know there’s a lot of source material left for many more seasons of “Game of Thrones,” so please tell me there will be more seasons of the HBO series. — Justin R., Albany, NY

A: You can bet the Iron Throne that the incredibly popular adventure/fantasy series will be back — for at least two more seasons. HBO has renewed “Game of Thrones” for a fifth and sixth season. Currently in its fourth season, “Game” airs Sundays at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

Q and A: Week of April 7

Katherine Heigl
Q: I haven’t seen my favorite actress, Katherine Heigl, in a while. Will she be back on TV soon, or is she a full-fledged movie star now? — Penny T., via email

A: While Katherine is still a big-screen draw — she has four movies coming out within a year of each other — she hasn’t forgotten her small-screen roots. Katherine — who got her big break on ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy” — is set to return to series television to star in NBC’s “State of Affairs,” a drama about a CIA attache (Katherine) who advises the president on “high-stakes incidents around the world” while trying to manage her complicated personal life. The pilot has been shot, and things are looking good for a series pickup.

Speaking of “Grey’s Anatomy,” Isaiah Washington is set to return to the series as Dr. Preston Burke for an episode in May. The show’s creator, Shonda Rhimes, told “The Wrap” that Isaiah’s character is vital to wrapping up the story of Sandra Oh’s character, Cristina Yang. Shonda revealed: “It's important to me that Cristinas journey unfolds exactly as it should. Burke is vital to that journey — he gives her story that full-circle moment we need to properly say goodbye to our beloved Cristina Yang.”

Q: Please tell me that the rumors of a Journey reunion with Steve Perry are true! — Samuel D., Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

A: Not yet … but word is that they are closer than ever to working things out. In a recent interview, Steve said: “We're trying. It’s tough. I’m doing my best in that area, and I can only do so much. The older I get, the more I do realize how important what we all had together and how it worked. … I brought things out of them, and they certainly brought a lot of my vocal stuff out of me — just [lifting] each other to this place that you can’t get to alone. I think that’s probably the biggest chemistry thing I recognize now.”

And Journey’s founder, Neal Schon, wrote on his Facebook page recently: “I hope we can reach out to each other and connect once again. We had amazing chemistry together. I love him with all the love and admiration you could even have. Steve, let’s talk soon.” I have all of my fingers and toes crossed for a reunion!

Q: Can you tell me when “Falling Skies” will return? I can’t wait! — Jimmy F., via email

A: The fourth season of TNT’s hit series “Falling Skies,” which stars Noah Wylie and Will Patton, premieres Sunday, June 22 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. The series is about life and survival in the wake of a catastrophic alien invasion. Before that at 9 p.m., check out the new action series “The Last Ship,” from executive producer Michael Bay and starring Eric Dane. The series is about a Navy vessel that may be humanity’s last hope in the wake of a worldwide catastrophe.

Q: With “Games of Thrones” returning for its fourth season this past Sunday, it got me wondering what Sean Bean is up to. Can you tell me what he’ll be in next? — Alicia W., via email

Sean Bean in TNT's Legends
A: Beginning in August, Sean stars in the new TNT action-thriller series called “Legends,” which is set to premiere Wednesday, Aug. 20, at 9 p.m. ET/PT. The story centers on Sean’s character, Martin Odum, who plays a deep-undercover FBI agent who may be losing his grip on reality. Martin has the ability to transform himself into a completely different person for each job, but he begins to question his own identity when a mysterious stranger suggests that Martin isn’t the man he believes himself to be. The series comes from “Homeland” executive producers Howard Gordon and Alexander Cary, and “Fringe” co-executive producer David Wilcox, and co-stars Ali Carter, Morris Chestnut, Amber Valletta, Steve Harris, and Tina Majorino.

Q: I was happy to read in your column that Kiss will be inducted into the Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame tonight. Will they be touring to support their induction? — Gary T., Cleveland, Ohio

A: Kiss will indeed be embarking on a joint project this summer, co-headlining with hard-rock superstars Def Leppard in a 42-city summer stadium tour, which will run from June 23 to Aug. 31. Def Leppard’s lead singer, Joe Elliott, said that he and Kiss bassist, Gene Simmons, first discussed the idea of the two bands touring together when he and Gene played some South American dates two years ago as part of a rock-and-roll all-stars tour. It’s finally happened, which is fantastic, Joe said. Also, a dollar from each ticket sold on the tour will go to the Wounded Warrior Project and other military nonprofits. (Go to livenation.com for ticket info.)

Q: Starz canceled “Magic City” just as season two ended. What a disappointment. The show was never given much publicity, but it was wonderfully done. I love it and miss it so much, and so do my friends. Is there any chance of “Magic City” going to another cable network? — Dale P., Fort Worth, Texas

A: While I never say never (see “Scrubs” and “Cougar Town” for examples), there hasn’t been much talk about the series continuing. Set in 1959 in Miami shortly after the Cuban Revolution, “Magic City” centered on the story of Ike Evans, played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan, who owned Miami’s most glamorous hotel, the Miramar Playa. I do have slightly good news for you, though: The entire 16-episode “Magic City” series will be released by Starz and Anchor Bay on Blu-ray and DVD on May 13, 2014.

Q: Can you tell me if “Unforgettable” will be back? — Tom V., The Villages, Fla.

A: The CBS drama series starring Poppy Montgomery as Carrie Wells, a woman with hyperthymesia — a rare medical condition that gives her the ability to visually remember everything — will return with a 13-episode third season beginning in June.

Q and A: Week of March 24

Q: Do you have any news on the reincarnation of NBC’s “Heroes”? — Daniel G., Birmingham, Ala.

A: NBC has confirmed that it will air a 13-episode “miniseries event” of the show, which is called “Heroes Reborn,” to air in 2015. It is being billed as a stand-alone series, and there is no word yet on which, if any, characters from the original series will be resurrected for the new series. According to the show’s website: “NBC will launch a digital series prior to the 2015 premiere that will introduce the characters and new storylines. This leveraging of social media is a way for fans to re-engage with what was one [of] the true pioneers in multiplatform storytelling.”

Q: What are Michael J. Fox’s plans now that his sitcom has been canceled? — Kathy I., via email

A: Michael will return later this season to “The Good Wife” as Louis Canning for a multi-episode, season-ending story arc. As for “The Michael J. Fox Show,” a representative at NBC says that the network will air the remaining episodes at some point this season. Also pulled from NBC’s Thursday night lineup, freshman comedy “Sean Saves the World,” starring “Will and Grace” favorite, Sean Hayes.

Q: One of my favorite shows is TNT’s “Cold Justice.” Can you tell me if there will be a third season? — Justin R., via email

A: Unless something incredibly crazy happens between now and renewal time, “Cold Justice” is a shoo-in for a season-three pickup. The network recently announced that the show’s second season, which is currently airing, has been extended by six episodes to air this summer.

“Cold Justice,” which airs on Fridays at 8 p.m. (ET/PT), follows former prosecutor Kelly Siegler and former crime-scene investigator Yolanda McClary as they dig into murder cases that have gone unsolved for years. Working with local law enforcement, Kelly and Yolanda help bring about real results in real time for the police, investigators, district attorneys and families who have worked tirelessly on these cold cases for years.

Q: Can you tell me what happened to Golden Boy? I never saw a finale episode for it. Is it gone for good? — Diane B., via email

A: “Golden Boy” — which aired on CBS for one season — followed the meteoric rise of Walter Clark, an ambitious cop who became the youngest police commissioner in New York City’s history. The show starred Theo James, Chi McBride, Kevin Alejandro and Bonnie Somerville, and was received to very positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. However, the show fell victim to the old “mediocre ratings” syndrome, and was canceled after its freshman season.

Q: I was glad to read in your column that “Game of Thrones” is returning to HBO on April 6. Does that mean season 3 will be out on DVD soon? — Doug C., via email

A: Season three of the adventure-fantasy series was released on DVD on Feb. 18. So now you can now catch up on what you’ve been missing, just in time for season four. But keep all spoilers, including The Rains of Castamere — aka “The Red Wedding” — close to the vest.

Q and A: Week of Feb. 10

Q: Can you tell me if and when “Cedar Cove” will return for another season? — Richard O., Summerfield, Fla.

A: The Hallmark Channel has renewed the phenomenally successful series, which is based on the book series of the same name by Debbie Macomber, for a second season. The show’s first season made Hallmark Channel the No. 1 cable channel for Saturday nights during the 8 to 9 time slot. With internationally renowned actress Andie MacDowell leading the cast — which includes Dylan Neal, Teryl Rothery, Bruce Boxleitner, Barbara Niven and Brennan Elliott — season two of “Cedar Cover” promises more of the same drama, romance and fun. Season two will premiere in July; I’ll let you know as soon as I have an exact date for its return.

Q: Would you happen to know anything about the fantastic TV series “24” with Kiefer Southerland? I thought they were bringing it back, or at least making a movie. — Dick W., via email

A: I did report on this about six months ago, but since this is such a hot subject — I get tons of letters from readers asking me the same question — I’ll write about it again, with some new information to pass along. Fox is indeed airing a new version of “24,” which is called “24: Live Another Day.” This go ’round, it will be a 12-part series but will still cover the requisite 24 hours. Kiefer will return, as will Mary Lynn Rajskub, William Devane and Kim Raver.

Kiefer recently told the press that the series will take place in London, stating: “‘24’ has always had such a global sensibility, but to be able to tell this intense ‘24’-style story with the beauty of Europe’s history and architecture as the backdrop is going to be fascinating.” Fox’s entertainment chairman Kevin Reilly teased reporters that the show’s pickup intrigued many industry stars. “A lot of who’s who in Hollywood wanted to participate in this,” he revealed. The two-hour season premiere of “24: Live Another Day” is May 5 at 9/8c on Fox.

ABC's "Mind Games" stars (L to R) Steve Zahn as Clark, Christian Slater as Ross, Cedric Sanders as Latrell, Jaime Ray Newman as Sam, Megalyn Echikunwoke as Megan and Gregory Marcel as Miles. (ABC/Bob D'Amico)
Q: Can you tell me what Christian Slater is up to now? I recently saw his amazing performance in the movie “He Was a Quiet Man,” and it made me realize I really miss seeing him. — Veronica W., Hanover, Pa.

A: You have only about a month to wait before you can see Christian again on a regular basis. On Feb. 25 at 10 p.m. ET/PT, ABC will premiere a new series called “Mind Games,” which stars Christian and Steve Zahn. They play brothers Ross (Christian) and Clark Edwards (Steve), who are partners in Edwards and Associates, an unusual business based on the belief that people’s decisions are influenced by their environment in ways they’re not aware. By using the hard science of psychological manipulation, the brothers commit to solving their clients’ problems. With Clark’s expertise and Ross’s con-artist ways, the brothers use psychology and science to offer clients an alternative to their fates.

Q: I don’t think I can wait much longer for season four of “Game of Thrones.” — Carlos F., via email

A: Just hold on a little longer. The highly anticipated premiere of the hit fantasy/drama series is set for April 6 at 9 pm ET/PT on HBO. The TV series, which is based on the books series by George R.R. Martin, shocked audiences at the end of last season with the infamous “Red Wedding,” and season four’s 10 episodes will prove to be just as exciting. It will roughly be based on the second half of “A Storm of Swords,” the third book in the “A Song of Ice and Fire” novels. According to showrunner David Benioff: “I think [season four] is going to surpass season three. There are so many scenes we’ve been waiting for so long to do, and it just gets more and more fun to write for these characters. We’re very excited for it.”

Q: Any news about “Devious Maids”? — Pamela G., via email

A: I have two exciting bits to tell you: First, season two will premiere on Lifetime on April 20 at 10 p.m. ET/PT. Second, Mark Deklin (whom you all know I LOVED on “GCB”) has signed on as a regular cast member. As of this writing, I don’t know whom he’ll play or how he’ll impact the season, but I’ll let you know as soon as I can drag the information out of him.

Q: I am a fan of “NCIS” and have wondered why Cote Pablo left the series. — Judy D., via email

A: Cote left the series for personal reasons, which she chooses not to expand on. On the possibility of returning, she told “TV Guide Magazine”: “The greatest thing about this last episode is that Ziva doesn’t die. As long as a character doesn’t die, the character can always come back.” Cody recently signed on to co-star in the film “The 33,” which is based on the events of the 2010 Chilean mine collapse.

Q and A: Week of Feb. 6

Julianne Moore as Sarah Palin
Q: I remember seeing pictures of Julianne Moore in some entertainment magazines dressed up as Sarah Palin. Was that for a movie? If so, when will it be out? I’d love to see it. — Margaret W., via e-mail

A: Julianne does indeed star as the 2008 vice-presidential hopeful in the HBO movie “Game Change,” which is based on the 2010 book of the same name. The movie premieres on Saturday, March 10, and also stars Ed Harris as Sen. John McCain and Woody Harrelson as campaign chair Steve Schmidt, along with Peter MacNicol, Sarah Paulson and Ron Livingston. The movie will mainly track the actions of the Republican Party during the 2008 elections, while the book devotes equal time to both Republicans and Democrats.

Q: I got completely hooked on HBO’s “Game of Thrones,” and I can’t wait until it returns for its second season. Would you know when that might be? — Brad F., via e-mail

A: Well, Brad, I just happen to have that little nugget of info — and I am willing to share. The next season of the medieval-fantasy series begins (no fooling) April 1 at 9 p.m., and like the first season, the second season will be 10 episodes long. And Lena Headey (who plays Ceresei) tells us that season two will bring even more drama (Is that possible?). The show also stars Peter Dinklage as Tyrion, Emilia Clarke as Daenerys, Nikolai Coster-Waldau as Jaime, Kit Harington as Jon and Michelle Fairley as Catelyn.

Q: I’m confused: First I heard Marg Helgenberger is leaving “CSI” for good, then I heard she’s not, and now I hear she is again. Can you clear this up for me? — Constance D., Newport, Conn.

A: I’ll try. Marg, who left the top-rated CBS crime drama at the end of January, is pretty much gone — as a regular castmember. However, her character’s future has been left open so Marg can return for a guest appearance, if she wishes. Marg assures her fans that they haven’t seen the last of Catherine Willows: “That was one of the reasons why it was a little easier for me to leave the show, because the producers said to me practically every day that the door is wide open. If I’m available and I’m up for it, you betcha.”

Q: I am dying to find out who killed Rosie Larson! When will “The Killing” return? — Darla A., Portland, Ore.

A: Hang in there just a few more months, Darla! Sunday, April 1 marks the return of the suspense drama to AMC with a two-hour premiere starting at 8/7c. The following week, the series returns to its normal timeslot of 9/8c. If you need to catch up or want to refresh your memory, you can see the entire 13-episode first season On Demand starting Monday, March 5.

Q and A: Week of July 4

Poppy Montgomery, courtesy Lifetime Television
Q: I was a huge fan of CBS’ “Without a Trace,” so I was thrilled to see that Poppy Montgomery is coming back to TV this fall, starring in “Unforgettable.” What made her decide to return to television? — Darcy R., via e-mail

A: I spoke with Poppy recently, and I asked her just that, and it basically boiled down to many elements coming together at the perfect time. Poppy told me: “The script was amazing. I’m obsessed with Niels (Arden Oplav), the director, and had been long before I ever met him. I’ve seen ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ maybe 30 times.

“I’ve worked with CBS since I was a baby,” she said. “So it’s like coming home again. It’s such a great place for me to work, and I feel like they support their shows so wholly and completely. Everything about it lined up for me. And I want to see a strong female character leading an exciting show.”

Speaking of strong female characters, Poppy portrays “Harry Potter” author J.K. Rowling in Lifetime’s original movie, “Magic Beyond Words: The J.K. Rowling Story,” which airs Monday, July 18. Of playing the famously reclusive author, Poppy told me: “When they sent me the script I definitely had reservations, because I knew that J.K. Rowling wasn’t collaborating on it. But when I read the script, I found that it was a beautiful, inspiring story and a love letter to an extraordinary woman.”

Q: What has my favorite “Friend,” Lisa Kudrow, been up to lately? — Tina D., Seattle



A: Since “Friends” ended in 2004, Lisa — who turns 48 on July 30 — has starred in “Happy Endings,” “P.S. I Love You,” “Bandslam” and “Easy A.” She currently stars in “Web Therapy,” which initially was a Web-exclusive series where Lisa portrays a psychiatrist who dispenses not-so-great advice to an array of eclectic clients. The show was picked up by Showtime, and it premieres Tuesday, July 19, at 11 p.m. “Web Therapy” co-stars Victor Garber and Lily Tomlin, and guest stars include Courteney Cox, Meryl Streep, Alan Cumming, Selma Blair, Jane Lynch, Molly Shannon and many more.

Q: While I was on vacation last month, I got totally hooked on “Storage Wars” on A&E. When does a new season premiere? — Doug F., via e-mail

A: “Storage Wars” — which follows a group of auction hunters who bid on forfeited storage lockers in the hopes of finding hidden treasures that they can sell for profit — makes its second-season premiere on Wednesday night, July 20.

Q: Is it true that actor Sean Bean was stabbed in a bar fight in London? Is he OK? — Emily H. in Pennsylvania

A: The “Game of Thrones” star was superficially cut in the arm with broken glass after chasing down a rude bar-goer who made lewd comments to his girlfriend. After the incident, Sean returned to the bar, used its first-aid kit on his arm and had another drink.

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