You can call them cult shows or maybe just ratings-challenged, but they're out there
and they're looking for viewers like you. For years, the television business has proved that the quality of the show is not
what is necessary for a long-run: it's the ratings. And sometimes, no matter how captivating and entertaining a series is,
the networks need to be pleased with its ratings. That's where you, the viewer, comes in. This year some incredible shows
just managed to scrape by and get renewed for another season. Now they need your help to stay on the air. Perhaps you've never
even heard of such TV gems as "Veronica Mars" or "Gilmore Girls." Or maybe you've just never found the time to watch them.
But that's why I wrote this week's column in hopes that you will become aware of the best shows you're not watching.
Arrested Development Mondays @ 8:00 on FOX
What Is It: One of TV's best comedies that has formed a small yet loyal fanbase. Without the aid of a
laugh track, it follows the lives of the Bluth family. After George Bluth Sr. winds up in jail, the family is thrown into
chaos. Last season, George Sr. (Emmy-nominated Jeffrey Tambor) escaped from prison and hid in the Bluth family attic. His
wife Lucille rekindled a relationship with her brother-in-law (also played by Tambor) and son Buster (after losing his hand
to a seal) discovered his uncle was actually his father. After becoming a stand-in for the Blue Man Group (which he mistook
for a support group), Tobias separated from his wife Linsay (Portia de Rossi) and their teenage daughter Maeby lied about
her age to get a job in the film business.
Why You Should Watch: With its outrageous plots and fantastic actors who play their eccentric roles perfectly,
this comedy is sure to bring plenty of laughs.
Why You Need To Watch: If it weren't for the new head of FOX, a fan of the show, it would have never made
it to see its upcoming third season.
The Office Tuesdays @ 9:30 on NBC
What Is It: A comedy presented in a faux-documentary form following the employees of a supply office.
Why You Should Watch: While it may not be up to par with the original British version, it brings its own
take on the show which is still very funny.
Why You Need To Watch: It's six-episode season debuted to only a small number of viewers. NBC is hoping
it will work better this year as it's starved for good comedy.
Gilmore Girls
What Is It: A small town mother and daughter live their lives as best friends. Lorelai became a mother
at sixteen to Rory. Rory, now a studious 20 year old with dreams of becoming a journalist attends Yale University. Lorelai
was forced years ago to reunite for financial reasons with her stuck-up rich parents who she ran away from as a teenager.
Last season, Rory began dating the wealthy Logan, entering Rory into the life of the rich and famous that Lorelai tried to
shield her from. During her relationship with Logan, Rory committed a felony and decided to quit Yale. When Lorelai protested,
Rory went to her granparents. She decided to move into their pool house and let them find her a job. Lorelai, betrayed once
again by her parents, turned to her boyfriend Luke and spontaneously proposed.
Why You Should Watch: "Gilmore Girls" brings a witty blend of both comedy and drama that make it one of
the most unique and entertaining shows on TV today.
Why You Need To Watch: While its one of The WB's top-rated shows, it's ratings are quite small when compared
to shows on bigger networks such as CBS and ABC.
Veronica Mars
What Is It: Teenager Veronica Mars was once on top of the world. Then her best friend was murdered. Her
sheriff father suspected the wrong man and was fired while Veronica's mom left and she became an outcast from school. Her
father opened up a private detective agency where Veronica solves most of his cases while trying to find her best friend's
killer. Last season, the murderer was discovered to be Veronica's boyfriend Logan's father. Veronica's mother returned for
a short while before escaping with $50,000 of her college money. And Veronica answered the door to either her boyfriend Logan
or ex-boyfriend Duncan.
Why You Should Watch It: It is simply, hand down, one of TV's best shows and deserves a much bigger audience
than it currently has. Superb acting, great writing, and excellent stories along with an intriguing overall plot make this
a must-see.
Why You Need To Watch It: After coming in second-to-last in the ratings last season, it now faces the
monster hit drama "Lost" as its competition.
Alias
What Is It: Sydner Bristow is a CIA agent who can become anyone she wants. A master of disguise, Sydney
is never without personal trials and tribulations. In a cliffhanger ending last season, her true love revealed he isn't who
she thought he was for the past four years!
Why You Should Watch: A thrilling espionage show, there is nothing like it on television. It never disappoints
with its shocks and twists. And Sydney Bristow is the best spy since James Bond.
Why You Need To Watch: While it has never been without a truly loyal following of X-Files-like proportions
(with superstar fans like Quentin Tarrantino), it still lacks in the ratings game. And with talk that this could be the final
season, it can use all the help it can get.
A Way To Catch Up: With a show like this, it's hard to jump right in. That's why cable network TNT will
be airing the first four seasons weekdays at 6:00 beginning September 26th. Don't miss out.
Remember these names: "Arrested Development," "The Office," "Gilmore Girls," "Veronica Mars,"
and "Alias." All I can ask is that you add these shows to your viewing schedules this season. Once you watch I'm sure you'll
find they deserve a much bigger audience than they currently have.
Next week: Summer Recap
