THURSDAY

JANUARY 8

2015

BIANCULLI’S BEST BETS

Fox, 8:00 p.m. ET

SEASON PREMIERE: Part 2 of 2. This week’s launch of Cycle 14 of American Idol continues, with, if all goes according to plan, more talent (like 15-year-old Emily Brooke, shown here), and fewer made-to-ridicule showoffs and delusionals, in the early mix.

PARENTHOOD

NBC, 10:00 p.m. ET

Earlier in this final season, Zeek (Craig T. Nelson) was rushed off to the hospital unexpectedly, after collapsing while celebrating in Las Vegas. He’s been nursing his health ever since – and tonight, he has every reason to be especially celebratory on his birthday. But with the number of episodes to the finale counting down quickly, don’t be too complacent – about the fate of Zeek, or of anyone else on this well-written, tenderly acted family drama.

ARCHER

FX, 10:00 p.m. ET

SEASON PREMIERE: The new season of this outrageously loony animated spy spoof – one that, for the most part, relies on wry dialogue rather than cartoon exaggerations for its humor – begins with Archer finding himself in one of those familiar movie plots. He finds himself isolated with a Japanese soldier from WWII who never got word that the war had ended. Archer, of course, is only too happy to be the bearer of bad news. And, as he calls it, “worse news.” Too soon? For a full review, see Eric Gould's The Cold Light Reader.

PORTLANDIA

IFC, 10:00 p.m. ET

SEASON PREMIERE: For Season 5, Portlandia is going forward by retreating into the past. Specifically, it’s providing stand-alone episodes that qualify as mini-movies, giving a backstory for the various characters played by series chameleons Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein. Tonight, to open this new season and new approach, Portlandia dips into the past of Candace and Toni, those steely-faced feminists who run the Women and Women First bookstore. What do we find there? That they once worked, and struggled, in the corporate world.

BABYLON

Sundance, 10:00 p.m. ET

SERIES PREMIERE: Well, it’s almost the premiere, anyway. The pilot episode for this new satirical police series, co-created by Danny Boyle of Slumdog Millionaire fame, was imported by Sundance back in September. But starting tonight, the rest of Season 1 is presented, starring James Nesbitt as a Scotland Yard commissioner who hires an American public relations consultant (Brit Marling) to polish the image of his somewhat unruly police force.

<< PREVIOUS | NEXT >>

Read and add comments HERE for today's Best Bets!

Leave a Comment: (No HTML, 1000 chars max)

Name (required)

Email (required) (will not be published)


Type in the verification word shown on the image.

Page: 1 of 139 | Go to page:

2768 Comments

Grand Dunman

There are also financial and practical benefits. Historically, owning a home has been a source of long-term financial security.

Sep 10, 2025 | Reply

Dave Bianculli

No shit Sherlock!! Thanks for the (ahem) brilliant advice!!

What TV shows do you like?

Big Dave

Sep 10, 2025

lsm99dna

Thank you so much for sharing this information, this will surely help me in my work and therefore, I would like to tell you that very few people can write in a manner where the reader understands just by reading the article once.

Sep 10, 2025 | Reply

Rescheck

The quality of materials and finishing is excellent. You can tell these homes are built to last.

Sep 7, 2025 | Reply

Dave Bianculli

What the fuc% are you talking about Homer??!!?

I think you took a wrong turn out of the peanut butter aisle!!!!

ROTFLMBFAO!!!

Sep 8, 2025

sellerfinancedream

Just as convenience adds value in everyday services, an **owner financing agreement** creates the same advantage in real estate by simplifying transactions. It clearly defines payment terms, interest, and responsibilities, reducing the need for traditional lenders. This flexibility builds trust and makes ownership more accessible for both buyers and sellers.

Sep 4, 2025 | Reply

laundrymatnearme

The appreciation shows how simplicity adds real value, whether in useful information or digital entertainment. In daily life, a **laundromat near me open now** provides the same benefit by offering quick and easy access whenever needed. Both highlight how convenience and efficiency create genuine satisfaction.

Sep 3, 2025 | Reply

laundrymatnearme

Sep 3, 2025 | Reply

minorityownedbiz

Komentar itu mengapresiasi informasi yang bermanfaat, sementara **slot qris 5000** juga menghadirkan nilai serupa dalam hiburan digital. Dengan modal kecil dan transaksi cepat, pemain dapat menikmatinya dengan mudah. Keduanya menegaskan bahwa kesederhanaan efektif mampu memberi kepuasan nyata.

Sep 2, 2025 | Reply

Dave Bianculli

Persetan denganmu dan kuda yang kau tunggangi!

ENGLISH ONLY PLEASE!

Sep 2, 2025

lsm99 sport

This article is an appealing wealth of informative data that is interesting and well-written. I commend your hard work on this and thank you for this information.

Sep 1, 2025 | Reply

lsm99 lotto

This article is an appealing wealth of informative data that is interesting and well-written. I commend your hard work on this and thank you for this information.

Sep 1, 2025 | Reply

Mr. G Yachts

Just as travel, entrepreneurship, and reliable services open doors to new opportunities, Yacht Rental Dubai creates a gateway to luxury and memorable experiences on the water. With modern fleets and skilled crews, Yacht Rental Dubai ensures safety, comfort, and personalized service. It is the ideal choice for leisure escapes, private celebrations, and professional gatherings in style.

Sep 1, 2025 | Reply

OlineDelivery

???? ???????? ?????? ????? ????? ???? ????? ????? ?????? ????? ????? ????? ?? ??????? ?????? ?? ??? ???? ?? ??????. ????? ???? ????? ????? ????? ????, ???? ?? ???? ??????? ????? ?????? ??????. ????? ?? ????? ?????? ?????? ????? ????????? ?? ????? ????? ?????? ?????? ????? ????? ????? ???.

Sep 1, 2025 | Reply

overseasproperty4cash

Just as travel and entrepreneurship open doors to new cultures and opportunities, choosing to **Sell Oveseas Property** can unlock wider financial prospects. It allows access to global markets, maximizes investment returns, and builds long-term stability for the future.

Aug 30, 2025 | Reply

Timetours

What an inspiring story of following a dream and turning years of experience into a meaningful venture. It’s amazing how cultural diversity across India creates endless opportunities for unique products and fresh market ideas. Just like exporting brings the richness of one place to another, travel allows us to experience culture firsthand. Options like tours by bus
make it easier to explore different regions, traditions, and stories in a comfortable and memorable way. Both entrepreneurship and travel are journeys that thrive on curiosity, discovery, and persistence.

Aug 30, 2025 | Reply

hapextreeservice

Unexpected storms or accidents can leave dangerous trees posing risks to your property. In such situations, fast and reliable emergency tree removal Roswell GA services are essential. With trained crews and the right equipment, your home and family stay safe from sudden hazards.

Aug 29, 2025 | Reply

614ispanicroofersacacio

Just as reliable reference materials are essential for producing quality work, hiring a professional [roofing](https://614ispanicroofersacacio.com/roofing/) service ensures your home is well-protected and built to last. Skilled roofers provide expert installation, repair, and maintenance, using high-quality materials for durability. Their precise workmanship enhances the safety and longevity of any property. Timely service and attention to detail prevent future problems and costly repairs. Choosing trusted roofing professionals gives homeowners confidence and peace of mind.

Aug 28, 2025 | Reply

lsm99 login

I'm writing on this topic these days, , but I have stopped writing because there is no reference material. Then I accidentally found your article. I can refer to a variety of materials, so I think the work I was preparing will work! Thank you for your efforts.

Aug 22, 2025 | Reply

Dave Bianculli

Well brother, I'm humbled and honored that you're using my incredible knowledge of everything TV to support your own writing.

Please be aware that if you publish without giving me proper accrediation, I'll sue your pants so fast you'll wish you never saw a television in your life!!

kidding, not kidding. Don't test me!

Also, I expect some sort of monetary compensation of course.

Heidy ho,

Dave

Aug 27, 2025

S9 Rich Ticket

In recent years, online gaming and lottery systems have gained significant popularity. Among the many modern platforms offering exciting opportunities for gaming, S9 Rich Ticket has emerged as a strong contender in the world of digital lottery tickets. Combining convenience, exciting rewards, and simple gameplay, S9 Rich Ticket is rapidly becoming the choice for many players looking to test their luck in the digital world. In this article, we will take a deep dive into S9 Rich Ticket, exploring its features, benefits, how to purchase it, and much more. https://s9richticket.com.pk

Aug 22, 2025 | Reply

fimeshah

Aug 22, 2025 | Reply

fimeshah

The S9 Rich Ticket platform is designed with a user-friendly interface, making it easy for even new users to navigate the site. Whether you’re purchasing tickets or claiming rewards, the entire process is straightforward and simple GB WhatsApp Download. https://s9richticket.com.pk/

Aug 22, 2025 | Reply

lsm99th

I will right away take hold of your rss feed as I can not find your email subscription link or newsletter service.

Aug 18, 2025 | Reply

Dave Bianculli

Well 99 (do your friends call you "problems, but a bitch ain't one?) ROTFLMBFAO!!!!!!!

I really am just sand-bagging this website, to be brutally honest. You can catch me on Fresh Air with Terry Gross from time to time, or you can become a student in one of my "award-winning" classes!!!

Peace out,

Dave

Aug 19, 2025

Page: 1 of 139 | Go to page:

David Bianculli

Founder / Editor

David Bianculli has been a TV critic since 1975, including a 14-year stint at the New York Daily News, and sees no reason to stop now. Currently, he's TV critic for NPR's Fresh Air with Terry Gross, and is an occasional substitute host for that show. He's also an author and teaches TV and film history at New Jersey's Rowan University. His 2009 Dangerously Funny: The Uncensored Story of 'The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour', has been purchased for film rights. His latest, The Platinum Age of Television: From I Love Lucy to the Walking Dead, How TV Became Terrific, is an effusive guidebook that plots the path from the 1950s’ Golden Age to today’s era of quality TV.

New From TVWW

BIANCULLI’S BEST BETS

Fox, 8:00 p.m. ET

NBC, 10:00 p.m. ET

FX, 10:00 p.m. ET

IFC, 10:00 p.m. ET

Sundance, 10:00 p.m. ET

David Bianculli

PBS' 'Frontline’ Examines Pension Promises and — Spoiler Alert — Finds the Math Doesn’t Add Up

The Decadence of ‘Versailles’ Comes to Ovation

Prescribing Mamie Gummer in 'Emily Owens, M.D.'

Looking for a Free Ride? HBO Can Deliver

'Pass the Biscuits' Part of the Hatfield-McCoy Pop-Culture Legacy