Monday, February 7, 2011

Welsh Greats Season 4 Episode 4 John Charles

Preview of 'Welsh Greats' :

Life story of the legendary Leeds United and Juventus player. A natural with the ball, his humanity earned him the title 'The Gentle Giant'. Narrated...

Airing Details: 10:35 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC Wales Channel

Episode Details: Season 4 Episode 4

Episode Name: John Charles

Report: Keith Olbermann Joining Current TV

It was only weeks ago that Keith Olbermann abruptly announced his departure from MSNBC's 'Countdown,' but it looks like the opinionated host might have already lined up his next television home.

According to the NY Times, Olbermann will announce Tuesday his plans to work with Current TV, a public affairs channel founded by Al Gore and other independent backers.

Sources claim Olbermann would have an equity stake in Current TV, and a public relations agency hired by the host has already scheduled a Tuesday morning call for "an exciting announcement regarding the next chapter in (Olbermann's) remarkable career."

Olbermann's new network has set up a presentation for advertisers this Wednesday to announce its future plans. Adding a top-rated host with network experience might be what Current TV needs to become a part of mainstream cable. The network is targeted at young people and while it has recently begun producing more traditional television series, it's largely comprised of YouTube-style submissions and is only available in only about 60 million homes and usually not as a part of basic cable.

Since his departure from 'Countdown,' Olbermann has kept in touch with his fan base through his Twitter account. Two days before the official announcement, the Internet domain name TheOlbermannShow.com was registered, leading many to believe the liberal host already had his next gig in the works.

Michael Jackson's Doctor's Trial Will Be Televised

It seems like Michael Jackson's personal life will continue to be a publicized media affair when it comes to the details surrounding his death.

CNN reports that a judge ruled Dr. Conrad Murray, the physician accused of involuntary manslaughter in the king of pop's death, will be tried in a court that allows approved television cameras. The judge also ordered that jury selection for the trial will begin March 24.

In January, Dr. Murray's medical license was suspended and he was ordered to stand trial for the charge of involuntarily manslaughter. This happened only six days after more than 20 prosecution witnesses testified that Murray violated his duties as a medical professional by injecting Jackson with a surgical-grade anesthetic then failing to properly monitor him to see the effects of the drug.

The opening statements of Murray's trial are likely to be delivered during the first week of April, and the trial is expected to last about six weeks, according to the defense and prosecution.

Murray remains free on $75,000 bail. Although he was not present in Monday's hearing, his lawyers said the doctor was busy earning a living with his medical practice in Las Vegas and Houston. He is strictly prohibited from practicing medicine in the state of California until the trial is completed.

At his arraignment last month, Murray told the judge, "Your honor, I am an innocent man."

Will Eminem's Chrysler Commercial Boost Detroit Auto Sales?

Ah, this year's Super Bowl didn't disappoint. Christina Aguilera flubbed the lyrics to the national anthem, the Black Eyed Peas performed a half-time show that was entertainingly bad, and the winning team's quarterback Aaron Rodgers is even rumored to be dating 'Gossip Girl's' Jessica Szohr. The commercials were great too, of course. Kim Kardashian really 'stepped it up' for Skechers, Justin Bieber went fully incognito alongside Ozzy Osbourne, and in a more serious, hard-hitting spot, Eminem returned to Detroit in an advertisement for Chrysler.

In the "Imported from Detroit" ad, a Chrysler sedan drives through what appears to be a rather unglamorous, working-class city. "What does this city know about luxury?" the narrator asks as we see the Joe Louis fist, Campus Martius, the Fox Theatre, and other iconic Detroit landmarks.

The rift to Eminem's hit 2002 song "Lose Yourself" begins to play, and we see the rapper himself cruising through motor city where he proudly started his musical career. The commercial points out the hard-working people of the city that's "been to hell and back," and implies that the tough times the city of Detroit have endured are what makes the city's people so resilient. Then Eminem's impassioned rap about giving everything you can and overcoming great adversity adds some heart and substance to the well-produced spot. We're supposed to see how strong and lasting Detroit is and assume the automobiles built there have those same positive qualities.

But as Business Week reported, this undoubtedly expensive Super Bowl commercial definitely generated a lot of buzz and touched the hearts of those in Detroit, but it might not necessarily boost car sales for Chrysler.

"To the rest of the nation watching the Super Bowl, Chrysler is struggling to make it back and Detroit as a city has been left for dead," Business Week wrote. "Trying to raise the prospects of both in one ad is, shall we say, extremely ambitious."

But, hey, if Kim Kardashian can sell sneakers, who's to say Eminem can't sell cars?! Watch the Chrysler spot for yourself after the jump.


Come Fly With Me Season 1 Special Come Fly on the Wall

Preview of 'Come Fly With Me' :

A look back at the making of Come Fly With Me. Go behind the scenes as Lucas and Walliams create and develop Come Fly With Me and follow the trials and tribulations as they bring to life a host of new characters, whilst filming at one of the UK's busiest airports. Featuring an in depth interview with Mark Lawson.

Airing Details: 10:35 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC One Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Special

Episode Name: Come Fly on the Wall

Coming Of Age Season 3 Episode 4 Robbery

Preview of 'Coming Of Age' :

Having lost his mum's engagement ring, DK is distraught and tells the principal about everything that has happened. However, the gang are on hand to help DK get the ring back. Realising they could never raise the cash needed to buy it back, they plan to rob the local pawn shop, but they are going to need some unusual disguises.

Airing Details: 10:30 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC THREE Channel

Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 4

Episode Name: Robbery

Bob's Burgers Season 1 Episode 1 Human Flesh

Preview of 'Bob's Burgers' :

New animated US comedy about Bob Belcher who runs Bob's Burgers with the help of his wife and three kids. In this episode, Bob re-launches his restaurant.

Airing Details: 10:30 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: E4 Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 1

Episode Name: Human Flesh

No Felony Grand Theft Charge for Lindsay Lohan Yet

Lindsay Lohan isn't getting slapped with a felony grand theft charge or thrown in jail for up to three years. At least not just yet.

Despite contradictory reports, no charges were filed against LiLo Monday in connection with the disappearance of a $2,500 necklace from a Venice jewelry store. The starlet's lawyer, Shawn Chapman Holley, issued a statement over the weekend that said: "We vehemently deny these allegations and if charges are filed, we will fight them in court, not in the press."'

Now according to RadarOnline.com, a source claims "Lindsay's fate won't be decided for at least a day or more. The case is still under review, and Danette Meyers (the prosecutor in this case) is still deciding what charges, if any, Lindsay will be facing."

Lindsay's attorney, Shawn Chapman Holley, reportedly "had a very productive meeting with Meyers. Shawn had to leave town overnight (Monday) for business, and it's unlikely that Danette would charge Lindsay while Shawn was out of town. Shawn will be back in town (Tuesday) night."

It's even possible that this time, our favorite 'Mean Girls' starlet might just be off the hook. "Lindsay has a legit explanation," a source explained. "She was loaned the necklace. This happens all the time in the celebrity world."

"Remember, (Lindsay's lawyer) Shawn was part of the 'Dream Team' that got O.J. Simpson acquitted of murder charges," another source said. "Shawn is tops in what she does. If there is anyone that can get Lindsay out of this mess, it's Shawn."

Lindsay is still on probation and is due in court Feb. 25 for a status hearing.

The Cleveland Show Season 2 Episode 7 Another Bad Thanksgiving

Preview of 'The Cleveland Show' :

Cleveland is excited about Thanksgiving until he discovers that Donna's sister Janet and her two bratty kids are coming to celebrate with them.

Airing Details: 10:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: E4 Channel

Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 7

Episode Name: Another Bad Thanksgiving

Bristol Palin, 20, Set to Release Memoir

Bristol Palin's memoir has shown up on Amazon.com, and just like that, there's a perfect preorder for readers interested in 20-year-old moms who are simultaneously 'Dancing With the Stars' alums and daughters of onetime vice presidential nominees.

PoliticalWire spotted the 304-page tome, currently titled 'Untitled Bristol Palin Memoir,' earlier today. The book is listed at $17.15 (save $8.84!) and appears to be set for a June 21 release. How Palin busted out 304 pages from 20 years of life -- or when she managed to do it, with all the televised dancing, Levi Johnston sparring, and moving to the continental U.S. -- is beyond us.

Bristol's memoir will come from William Morrow & Co., an imprint of HarperCollins, which previously published Sarah Palin's 'Going Rouge: An American Life' and 'America by Heart : Reflections on Family, Faith, and Flag.'

In a morning radio interview in January, Bristol divulged she has a new beau and is "thrilled." She's also adjusting well to her Arizona home, having recently departed Alaska. "I love the town that I live in," Bristol said. "I love my house. [2-year-old son] Tripp's happy. He's healthy."

Palin also had a sex talk at Washington University canceled due to student opposition. Bristol became pregnant at 17, and at 20, is now a single mother to her son.


Shameless Season 8 Episode 9

Preview of 'Shameless' :

Mimi is suffering from insomnia and soon real life and dreams begin to merge when she becomes consumed with paranoia and ghosts. Meanwhile, Shane and Kelly are literally out in the cold.When Cilla ends up in hospital, Mimi accuses Shane and Kelly of trying to kill her. It takes an angelic face from the past to help her overcome her insomnia and reconnect with her daughter. Meanwhile, Shane and Kelly are literally out in the cold. Bonnie, the new girl at the brothel proves a hit when her innovative ideas to improve the business are a success. Lillian is so taken by Bonnie that a special mother daughter bond is forged, but Kelly smells a rat.

Airing Details: 10:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: Channel 4

Episode Details: Season 8 Episode 9

Episode Name: EPISODE: 9

Secret Diary of a Call Girl Season 4 Episode 2

Preview of 'Secret Diary of a Call Girl' :

Controversial drama about a high class call girl. Belle struggles when the reality of being a madam, a girlfriend, a chaperone and an escort hits home - has she taken on more than she can handle? She is in for an even bigger shock when she meets Ben's mum. With Billie Piper, Iddo Goldberg, Lily James, Suzanne Bertish, and Gemma Chan.

Airing Details: 10:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: ITV2 Channel

Episode Details: Season 4 Episode 2

Episode Name: EPISODE: 2

Jersey Shore Season 3 Episode 2 It's Gonna Be An Interesting Summer

Preview of 'Jersey Shore' :

The fight between Sammi and JWOWW causes tension in the house. Ronnie and Sammi continue to isolate themselves, missing the first family dinner. And when Ronnie decides to hang out and have fun with the rest of the house, Sammi feels all alone. .

Airing Details: 10:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: MTV Channel

Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 2

Episode Name: It's Gonna Be An Interesting Summer

Why Best Supporting Actress Is the Race to Watch at This Year's Oscars

Award shows are fun. You've got beautiful actresses in glamorous designer dresses and handsome actors in tuxes passing out prizes to the movies and stars we love to love (or love to hate). It's all very self-congratulatory and sparkly and exciting. Except when it isn't. You see, myself and my pop culture-writing brethren just love to think out loud about who is going to win, and sometimes that takes all of the fun out of it. Who really cares about the race when you know in advance who will cross the finish line first, right?

But there's one Oscar category this year that's shaping up to be so unpredictable, so rife with possibility, that it defies the odds: Best Supporting Actress. Instead of trying to deduce a winner, let me explain why this is the category to watch. Because despite what other "experts" might try to tell you, the prize could go to just about any of the nominees -- and that is awesome!

In the three other acting categories, the front-runner is out ahead like Carl Lewis. With just about every major win and mountains of fawning praise behind them, Colin Firth ('The King's Speech') and Christian Bale ('The Fighter') appear to have their wins sewed up, and while there is an outside chance that the Academy could grant Annette Bening a "career Oscar" for her rich, deservingly nominated performance in 'The Kids Are All Right,' Natalie Portman's intense, go-for-broke turn in 'Black Swan' seems all but unbeatable at this point in the game.

But this year's best supporting actress race is shaping up to defy all of the usual logic -- for which the punditry have weighted statistics and mathematical formulas clearly developed by NASA scientists -- that make the Oscars so predictable. Sure, Melissa Leo has captured a lion's share of the pre-Oscar awards, making her the unquestioned front-runner, but unlike Portman, Firth and Bale, her win doesn't feel like an inevitability. As soon as Leo lost the National Board of Review prize to 'Animal Kingdom' star Jacki Weaver and 'The Fighter,' with its three individual acting nods in the supporting categories and an acclaimed performance by leading man and producer Mark Wahlberg, lost best ensemble to 'The King's Speech' at the SAG awards, the actress suddenly became vulnerable.

Leo, with her Golden Globe and SAG wins, remains the statistical favorite, of course, but the prevailing sentiment in Hollywood is that two actresses are chipping away at her possible victory: Amy Adams and Hailee Steinfeld. Adams, Leo's co-star in 'The Fighter,' is easily the most commercial and well-known actress up for the supporting prize -- don't think for a second that that doesn't matter (see: Julia Roberts, 2001; Sandra Bullock, 2010) -- and she is popular with the Academy as well, having been nominated for three Oscars in the past five years ('Junebug,' 2006; 'Doubt,' 2009; 'The Fighter,' 2011).

Steinfeld has plenty going for her, too. According to Gold Derby, "When Oscar upsets occur, they tend to happen in those supporting-acting slots ... [Steinfeld] has another advantage too. She's really the lead female star of 'True Grit.' Lead performances win in the supporting category all the time like recent champs Rachel Weisz ('The Constant Gardener') and Jennifer Connelly ('A Beautiful Mind')."

And Steinfeld's film is a box office hit that, despite 10 nominations, seems unlikely to win in any other major category. Entertainment Weekly editor Dave Karger, who is currently ranking Steinfeld as his choice to take home the award, believes this will work in her favor: "I'm thinking its ['True Grit'] best shots at a win are for Hailee Steinfeld and possibly cinematographer Roger Deakins."

So if the Academy wants to award the film as a whole, it may do so by handing the 14-year-old actress a win over her more seasoned peers.

A Steinfeld win seems even more likely if Leo and Adams split the 'Fighter' vote. The two actresses give vastly different performances in the film, so who is "better" really becomes an issue of personal preference and could divide the Academy into two camps -- do you vote for Leo's loud, transformative performance as a manipulative and overbearing mama bear boxing manager or Adams' gritty but far more nuanced turn as "Irish" Micky Ward's supportive girlfriend? It's subtle, let-it-happen acting vs. method, become-the character acting, and both styles of performance have their supporters.

With Steinfeld suddenly a major player, not two but three actresses are seriously vying for the majority, but as the vote spreads out, the less total votes an actress would need to claim the prize. With that in mind, suddenly the door appears to open for Helena Bonham Carter, a veteran actress of some esteem who has been nominated before (for 'The Wings of the Dove' in 1998). Bonham Carter is assured plenty of votes from the same 'King's Speech' purists who propelled the film to surprise victories over David Fincher and his 'The Social Network' at the Directors Guild of America Awards and Producers Guild Awards. Nearly 25 years after making her film debut in the Oscar-winning 'A Room with a View,' she has grown into one of the more popular character actresses in Hollywood thanks to her collaborations with partner Tim Burton ('Alice in Wonderland,' Sweeny Todd,' 'Planet of the Apes') and her small-but-scene stealing role as Bellatrix LeStrange in the 'Harry Potter' films.

Thus, the same "it's her time" sentiment that has made Bening a viable contender opposite a seemingly unstoppable Portman in the lead actress race also applies to Bonham Carter here.

For Weaver, the fifth best supporting actress nominee, the nomination is her prize. She's won multiple critics awards for her turn in 'Animal Kingdom,' making her a likely culprit to steal a few votes away from Leo, but her exclusion from the SAG nominations make an Oscar win unlikely (actors, who make up the entirety of the SAG voting body, are also the largest voting block of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, accounting for 1,311 of its 5,835 members).

With a little more than two weeks left until the 83rd Academy Awards, it's anybody's game. The only thing that's certain at this point about the best supporting actress race is that someone is going to come out of it a first-time Oscar winner -- Leo, Adams and Bonham Carter have each been nominated before but have never taken home the prize, while Steinfeld and Weaver are enjoying their first nominations. Good luck, ladies!

Bridalplasty Season 1 Episode 9 Keep Your Friends Close Falling to Pieces

Airing Details: 10:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: LIVING Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 1

Episode Name: Falling to Pieces


Blue Bloods Season 1 Episode 2 Samaritan

Preview of 'Blue Bloods' :

The Reagans contemplate the right and wrong of taking matters into their own hands after a good Samaritan stops a criminal in the subway.

Airing Details: 10:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: Sky Atlantic Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 2

Episode Name: Samaritan


Christina Aguilera Kicks Off Spate of Super Bowl Fauxpologies

Christina Aguilera was the first, but she certainly won't be the last celebrity to proffer a vaguely sincere sorry for how things went down at the Super Bowl on Sunday. After flubbing a line of our national anthem in front of millions of viewers and a very prickly live audience, X-tina released a statement saying: "I can only hope that everyone could feel my love for this country and that the true spirit of its anthem still came through."

We expect many more such missives in the next several days, namely from The Black Eyed Peas for stealing a little piece of America's soul with their halftime performance and Cameron Diaz for making everyone gag on their chicken wings when she was caught on camera hand-feeding A-Rod. We suspect there will ultimately be some words of regret issued by Groupon for their vaguely insensitive Timothy Hutton-Tibet ad from Sunday night. Timothy Hutton may also say sorry. he doesn't seem to have much else going on.

But the question is, does any of it matter? Are these real apologies or are they the kind of forced, head hanging, I don't want a spanking and I just really want everyone to keep liking me fauxpologies which have become as commonplace in celebrity land as they are in middle school. Any time we see someone famous publicly criticized for their actions we see a careful tango of public guilt admission, meant to exonerate all sins and make sure they still get to sit with the rest of the popular kids in the lunchroom.

The fauxpology was in full effect last week when the cast of 'Glee' apologized to Lindsay Lohan for mocking her on an episode of their show. Of course they only did it because they ran into her at a restaurant (awkward!), and they totally proved they didn't mean it when they made fun of her mom Dina on last night's episode and got mean girl Katie Couric in on the action.

Last month, network TNT had to issue an apology on behalf of comedian Tracy Morgan for his crude remarks about Sarah Palin on 'Inside the NBA.'

"It's unfortunate Mr. Morgan showed a lack of judgment on our air with his inappropriate comments. We apologize for any embarrassment or offense it may have caused," TNT fauxpologized in a statement. Notice Morgan himself issued no such apology, faux or otherwise.

The mark of a fauxpology is that it just doesn't seem sincere. But since bad behavior in Hollywood has become the norm rather than the exception, it will become a regular tool in a celeb's arsenal.

The fauxpology is quicker and easier for getting out of a tight spot than heading to rehab, and it works to transfer guilt and shame for the brief moment it takes for someone else in the spotlight to muck things up in a new and exciting way.

Let the Super Bowl fauxpologies begin, and let's hope the cast of 'Glee' doesn't run into Dina Lohan at lunch.

Joe Jonas Ready to Settle Down With Ashley Greene, Friends Say

No one would dispute that Joe Jonas has been a busy man in the dating world, but 'Twilight' actress Ashley Greene may have finally got him to settle down. Even their close friends believe the couple have a shot at making their relationship last.

"Even though Joe has had plenty of high-profile girlfriends in the past few years, he is impressed with Ashley's joy of life and dedicated work ethic," a source close to Jonas tells PopEater. "They are both well grounded and have a basic understanding of who they are."

Jonas is known for being a serial dater in Hollywood. He had a 2006 fling with pop artist AJ Michalka and had a solid relationship with Taylor Swift two years later that ended badly when he dumped her over the phone. Then, he spent a year with Camilla Belle, who starred in a Jonas Brothers music video for the song 'Lovebug,' and then there was last year's romp with Demi Lovato, who starred with Jonas in 'Camp Rock' and 'Camp Rock 2.'

But Greene, who is the daughter of a U.S. Marine and attended Christian schools, knows what she wants in life and seems to have the musician smitten enough to follow her on the road.

Recently, the couple, who were introduced last summer in London by mutual friends, had a late night romantic dinner at Ichiban Japanese Grill and Sushi Bar in Baton Rouge, La., where Greene is currently filming, 'Breaking Dawn.' They shared sushi and spent most of the meal cuddling and talking to each other.

"They were holding hands and seemed really happy to be together," says a source at the restaurant.

While Greene and Jonas live in Los Angeles, they understand the demands of each other's busy careers. While Jonas tours the world with his Jonas Brothers concert tours, Greene is busy making movies stateside.

"He respects her as a professional, which could make the relationship go a long way," says the music source.

And Greene recently told Teen Vogue that she and Jonas have worked out a "traveling relationship" which is "crazy" because they both live in Los Angeles.

"We have already met each other's parents," she told the magazine, "which I think is a good result of the kind of lifestyle we live. He's sweet and really funny, which is huge for me."

Melissa Leo Rolls Out 'Consider' Ads in Time For the Oscars

Melissa Leo's role in 'The Fighter' has won her both rave reviews and an Academy Award nomination, but it seems that she feels the Oscar committee could use a little reminder when making their decision.

Despite already winning a Golden Globe award for the role, the 50-year-old actress, who stars in 'The Fighter' as the mother of Mark Wahlberg's title character, has posted a set of glamour shots on her website, www.MelissaLeo.com, simply captioned "consider."

Leo tells Deadline of her decision to post the photos, "I took matters into my own hands. I knew what I was doing and told my representation how earnest I was about this idea. I had never heard of any actor taking out an ad as themselves and I wanted to give it a shot."

While actors have been criticized in the past for taking such self-promotional measures, Leo says that she is merely trying to gain recognition for her work, something that can be elusive for actresses above a certain age.

Leo has heard that the ads are getting some less than positive reviews, although she says that no one has been openly critical to her. "I heard there were negative comments, but no one said them to my face, sadly. I like to hear what people think. I could explain myself."

Fortunately for Leo, most of the response has been positive. "I did hear a lot of very positive comments," she says. "Particularly from women of a certain age who happen to act for a living and happen to understand full well the great dilemma and mystery of getting a cover of a magazine."

Do you think Leo made the wrong choice by making the ads?

Jason Lee Puts Up Reward For Stolen Dennis Hopper Pic

Just when you hoped you'd seen enough of Brett Favre (wink), 'Dancing With the Stars' alum and Super Bowl champ Kurt Warner tells me he thinks Brett should sign up and shake his booty on the hit show.

"Let me think on what old retired NFL guy should join the show," Kurt pondered when I asked him at GQ's Super Bowl party who he thinks should join the cast. After a moment, he said, "Brett Favre. That's a good idea. Plus controversy is good for ratings."

Kurt has made his thoughts on Brett known before, and recently told The New York Times that although he's a "surefire Hall of Famer" and one of the game's greatest, "I do think some of the things that happened off the field has to hurt his legacy to some degree. I do think people look at him differently now -- at least in the short term -- than they did five years ago."

Maybe Brett should follow Kurt's advice and dance those cell phone images right out of our minds. That's if ABC would ever invite him, a prospect that my source says is unlikely.

"No way would 'Dancing' want any part of Brett," a show insider tells me. "They love having colorful people in the cast but you have to remember this is a family show and not the right fit for someone who has been accused of e-mailing private photos of himself to young ladies."

Who do you think should be Kurt's second choice of 'DWTS'? My initial pick would be Terrell Owens, who helped deejay the GQ party, which celebrated the coolest athletes out there. But boohoo, Terrell seemed to have other goals in mind confessing to me, "I would rather be on the cover of GQ than have a Super Bowl ring." WOW!

How TV Ruined Your Life Season 1 Episode 3 Aspiration

Preview of 'How TV Ruined Your Life' :

Comedy series in which Charlie Brooker uses a mix of sketches and jaw-dropping archive footage to explore the gulf between real life and television.

From Dallas to Grand Designs, TV continually rubs desirable lifestyles in your face, making you feel inadequate in the process. Warning: contains Sophie Dahl and coffins.

Airing Details: 10:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC TWO Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 3

Episode Name: Aspiration

What Truce? 'Glee' Slams Lohan Again and Dina Is 'Hurt and Shocked'

Millions of 'Super Bowl'-watchers stuck to FOX last night to watch the blowout episode of 'Glee,' but no one was more surprised than Dina Lohan when guest star Katie Couric took a nasty swipe at her, calling the celeb mom and her dog losers.

"So much for the peace between the Lohan family and 'Glee,'" a family friend of Dina's told me after watching the episode.

If you need a refresher, the show just apologized for mocking Lindsay Lohan earlier this season. In the episode, Gwyneth Paltrow guest starred as a Spanish teacher and name-dropped the actress in a lesson, asking, "Lindsay Lohan is totally crazy, right?"

"They are all a bunch of bullies," my source seethes. "Dina is hurt and shocked and hasn't done anything to deserve this constant teasing from this show."

For those who didn't see the episode, Sue Sylvester's competitive cheerleading stunt fails, and she is interviewed by Couric, thinking she was being named one of the "most fascinating people." Instead, she was part of a Barbara Walters-like segment being named "loser of the year."

Couric said that Sue beat out Dina and her fictional dog, Sparky Lohan, who Couric said was "also a loser." Ouch.

One person who agrees with 'Glee's' sentiments is [SURPRISE!] Lohan's ex-husband.

"As true as this might be, it is wrong," Michael Lohan tells me. "Dina deserves a lot worse of a title after all she has done to destroy the relationships with my kids and entire family."

Michael calls the people Dina surrounds herself with "the epitomes of losers."

I say enough is enough. Pick on someone your own size, 'Glee,' and you too, Katie!

The Vampire Diaries Season 2 Episode 13 Daddy Issues

Preview of 'The Vampire Diaries' :

US supernatural drama. Elena, Jenna and Damon are not happy when Jonathan Gilbert unexpectedly returns to Mystic Falls. Caroline tells Stefan about her conversation with Tyler, and Stefan tries to reach out to the troubled young werewolf. Jeremy looks after Bonnie when she has an unsettling encounter with the warlock Jonas. Jules takes a hostage and the situation quickly leads to violence. With Nina Dobrev, Paul Wesley, Ian Somerhalder, Candice Accola, and Katerina Graham.

Airing Details: 9:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: ITV2 Channel

Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 13

Episode Name: Daddy Issues

'Inception,' 'Social Network' Win Big at Writers Guild Awards

The awards just keep on coming. This weekend, 'Inception' and 'The Social Network' won big in the writing department at the Writers Guild Awards, according to E! News.

Aaron Sorkin predictably won Best Adapted Screenplay for 'The Social Network,' while Christopher Nolan beat out 'Black Swan' and 'The Kids are All Right' for Best Orginial Screenplay with 'Inception.'

The awards, which were held simultaneously in both New York and Los Angeles, also brought some star power with 'Modern Family' actors Eric Stonestreet and Jesse Tyler Ferguson hosting the LA event, along with guest Amy Poehler.

See the complete list of winners after the jump!

Original Screenplay: 'Inception,' Christopher Nolan
Adapted Screenplay: 'The Social Network,' Aaron Sorkin
Documentary Screenplay: 'Inside Job,' Charles Ferguson, Chad Beck, Adam Bolt
TV Drama Series: 'Mad Men'
TV Comedy Series:
'Modern Family'
New TV Series:
'Boardwalk Empire'
TV Episodic Drama:
'The Chrysanthemum and the Sword' ('Mad Men')
TV Episodic Comedy: 'When It Rains, It Pours' ('30 Rock')
Long Form Original: 'The Special Relationship'
Long Form Adaptation:
'The Pacific,' 'Part Eight'
Animation: 'The Prisoner of Benda' ('Futurama')
Comedy/Variety Series: 'The Colbert Report'
Comedy/Variety Special:
'National Memorial Day Concert 2010'
Daytime Drama:
'As the World Turns'
Children's Episodic:
'Happy Ha-Ha Holidays' ('Imagination Movers')
Children's Long Form: 'Avalon High'
TV Documentary (Current Events): '
Flying Cheap' ('Frontline')
TV Documentary (Other): 'Wyatt Earp' ('American Experience')
News: 'Sunday Morning Almanac' ('CBS Sunday Morning')
News Analysis, Feature or Commentary: 'Resurrecting Eden' ('60 Minutes')

Sun, Sex and Suspicious Parents Season 1 Episode 6 Magaluf

Preview of 'Sun, Sex and Suspicious Parents' :

BBC Three throws open the doors on the ultimate rite of passage for the average teenager - the first ever summer holiday abroad without their parents. But what these teenagers couldn't possibly have guessed is that whilst they enjoy their first taste of freedom, with all its temptations and excesses, they are being secretly watched by their parents. It will be an eye-opening experience, but will it bring them closer together or drive them further apart?

It's sun, sea and outrageous behaviour in the party town of Magaluf as two very different groups of friends go on their first holiday without their parents.

Airing Details: 9:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC THREE Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 6

Episode Name: Magaluf

CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Season 11 Episode 5 House of Hoarders

Preview of 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation' :

When Nick and Sara are sent to investigate a foul stench emanating from the home of a compulsive hoarder, they stumble across several dead bodies. The CSIs must determine whether the woman - or a member of her family - might be a serial killer.

Airing Details: 9:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: Five Channel

Episode Details: Season 11 Episode 5

Episode Name: House of Hoarders

Is 'Gossip Girl' Star Jessica Szohr Dating Aaron Rodgers?

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is flying high these days, but does he have a 'Gossip Girl' on his arm to help him celebrate? The 2011 Super Bowl MVP is rumored to be dating actress Jessica Szohr, according to E! News.

Szohr, who was in Dallas over the weekend for all of the Super Bowl festivities -- including the DirecTV Celebrity Beach Bowl -- confessed she was rooting for her rumored beau's team, but had a legitimate reason for her team loyalty.

"I'm rooting for the Packers because I'm from Green Bay!" she explained, playing coy as to whether or not Rodgers had any influence on her pick.

Though their hectic schedules have them constantly on-the-go, the well-traveled pair have been spotted going out to dinner in Philadelphia and sitting courtside at a Minneapolis Bucks game in January.

Now that football season is over, perhaps the duo will be able to see some more of each other, though the 'Gossip Girl' star doesn't seem to be slowing down anytime soon.

Szohr, who split with her 'Gossip Girl' co-star Ed Westwick late last year, recently bared it all as the new face of the SoBe Lifewater campaign.

And as for Rodgers, well, he's going to Disney World.

Outcasts Season 1 Episode 2

Preview of 'Outcasts' :

News of a missing survival shuttle sends Cass, Fleur and Jack outside the settlement in search of Stella's daughter, only to find that something or someone has got there first. Stella and Tate are confronted both by their old foe Julius Berger and the accusations made against him by a young woman from the transporter.

Airing Details: 9:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC One Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 2

Episode Name: EPISODE: 2

Hussey, Hauritz out of World Cup

Australia's World Cup campaign has been dealt a blow even before the squad leaves Australia, with Michael Hussey and Nathan Hauritz ruled out due to injuries. Callum Ferguson and Jason Krejza will replace the pair in the 15-man squad, which flies out to India on Wednesday to defend the title under Ricky Ponting.

And if losing a key middle-order batsman and the first-choice spinner was not bad enough, Australia could not even opt for their second choices in each discipline, with Shaun Marsh and Xavier Doherty not considered due to injuries of their own. It has meant a rapid promotion for the aggressive offspinner Krejza, who made his ODI debut on Sunday, while the inclusion of Ferguson was less of a surprise given his solid performances at international level over the past couple of years.

Hussey in particular will be a massive loss, as he is the only Australian in the top ten of the ICC's one-day batting rankings, and he is a renowned finisher who can rescue the side after top-order trouble. However, the selectors decided they could not risk Hussey, who suffered a serious hamstring injury during the one-day series against England that resulted in surgery, and he conceded he would be unlikely to be fit for the first couple of World Cup matches.

Hauritz seemed a more likely candidate to make the cut, after he dislocated his shoulder while fielding during the one-day game in Hobart on January 21 and had surgery in a bid to be fit for the World Cup. He bowled in the nets on Monday and sent down a dozen deliveries at what he called 60 to 70%, but it was not enough to convince the selectors that he was worth the risk in such a big tournament.

"The National Selection Panel has determined that the best strategy to ensure a successful campaign is for Australia to enter the tournament with a fully fit squad of fifteen from the first game," the chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said. "We've applied to the ICC Technical Committee for Callum Ferguson to replace Mike Hussey in the squad.

"Callum has an excellent record in one-day international cricket and played well in the one-day game against England in Sydney recently. We think he'll play well in sub-continental conditions. We've also applied to the ICC Technical Committee for Jason Krejza to replace Nathan Hauritz in the squad. Jason toured India with the Australian Test team in 2008 and understands those conditions. We're certain he'll be a key member of our squad."

Krejza picked up 2 for 53 in his debut one-day international on Sunday and, although he dragged the ball short too often and threatened to leak big runs, he will enjoy the prospect of returning to India, where he collected 12 wickets on his Test debut in 2008. He was only called up in Perth due to Doherty's back problem, which also ruled him out of replacing Hauritz, while Marsh's hamstring strain meant Ferguson got the nod.

However, there was some good news for the Australians, with Ponting and Steven Smith both deemed fit enough to fly to India, while Brad Haddin was also cleared after hurting his knee during the final ODI against England. Smith will share the spin duties with Krejza, while nothing was going to keep Ponting from his fifth World Cup.

"Ricky Ponting is going well in his rehabilitation following his finger fracture," the team physio Alex Kountouris said. "He is batting regularly and is expected to transition into unrestricted training soon after the team arrives in India.

"Brad Haddin was struck on the knee whilst batting during the seventh ODI against England. During the batting innings the knee became swollen. We expect this to resolve soon after we arrive in India. Steve Smith is making very good progress from the groin injury he sustained in the sixth ODI against England."

The Australians fly out on Wednesday and play their first of two warm-up matches on Sunday, against India in Bangalore. Their opening match of the tournament proper is against Zimbabwe in Ahmedabad on February 21.

Squad Ricky Ponting (capt), Michael Clarke, Shane Watson, Brad Haddin, Cameron White, Callum Ferguson, David Hussey, Tim Paine, Steven Smith, John Hastings, Mitchell Johnson, Jason Krejza, Brett Lee, Doug Bollinger, Shaun Tait.

Melbourne and Sydney Given Two T20 Teams Each

Melbourne and Sydney will each host two teams in next summer's new Big Bash League, after Cricket Australia rejected the idea of basing one of the sides in Geelong. The eight new city-based outfits have been announced, with Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane and Hobart to have one team each, although Cricket Australia is keen on expanding the competition to include more sides in the future.

The Melbourne sides will be based at the MCG and Etihad Stadium in Docklands respectively, while Sydney's teams will be based at the SCG and Homebush. The Ryobi Cup will be reduced by two rounds to accommodate the bigger Twenty20 competition, with eight rounds plus a final to be played in the one-day tournament.

The Sheffield Shield will remain in its current format, meaning the five-day first-class final will remain part of the Australian cricket calendar.

Big Fat Gypsy Weddings Season 1 Episode 4 Boys Will Be Boys

Preview of 'Big Fat Gypsy Weddings' :

Tonight's episode looks at the testosterone-filled world of the traveller man, where disputes are settled with fists and status conveyed by the car that you drive.

Airing Details: 9:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: Channel 4

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 4

Episode Name: Boys Will Be Boys

90210 Season 3 Episode 6 How Much Is That Liam In The Window

Preview of '90210' :

Victor asks Adrianna to pose topless; Liam uses his looks to get a job and Dixon apologises to Ivy.

Airing Details: 9:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: E4 Channel

Episode Details: Season 3 Episode 6

Episode Name: How Much Is That Liam In The Window

The Chinese Are Coming Season 1 Episode 1

Preview of 'The Chinese Are Coming' :

Travelling across three continents, Justin Rowlatt investigates the spread of Chinese influence around the planet and asks what the world will be like if China overtakes America as the world's economic superpower. In the first of two films, he embarks on a journey across Southern Africa to chart the extraordinary phenomenon of Chinese migration to Africa, and the huge influence of China on the development of the continent.

While many in the West view Africa as a land of poverty, to the Chinese it is seen as an almost limitless business opportunity. From Angola to Tanzania, Justin meets the fearless Chinese entrepreneurs who have travelled thousands of miles to set up businesses.

Airing Details: 9:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC TWO Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 1

Episode Name: EPISODE: 1

Michael Vick Gets Key to Dallas

Dallas Mayor Pro Tem Dwaine Caraway gave the key to the city to Michael Vick, the quarterback for the rival Philadelphia Eagles, causing an uproar among animal rights activists Saturday.

In 2007, Vick was convicted of a felony related to a dogfighting ring and served 19 months in prison.

"The message and the kids are far greater than all this response about, 'Why give him the key to the city?'" Caraway told ESPNDallas on Monday afternoon. "He is telling kids and exchanging with them the rights and wrongs of the things that he did and encouraging kids to further their education and to not deal with the drugs. To obey their parents and pick the people they hang around.

"That's a message I would challenge anybody to say that not one kid across America shouldn't hear from people in notoriety such as Michael Vick."

Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert distanced himself from the action later Monday.

"The action taken was not sanctioned by my office and was not an official ceremonial honor on behalf of the City of Dallas," he said in a statement. "Official Keys to the City are presented by the Mayor, or an elected official designated by the Mayor, and reserved, on a limited basis, for an elected official of international status. Clearly, this was not the case in this situation and done without my knowledge or approval."

Local radio reporter Richard Hunter attended the event and filmed it. In the video, Hunter says that he actually adopted one of the dogs from Vick's home and he tries to speak with the Philadelphia quarterback at Saturday's event. Vick does not speak to him.

After serving his prison time, Vick was signed by the Eagles in 2009. This past season he was named NFL Comeback Player of the Year after making the Pro Bowl with the Eagles.

Caraway is a city council member and as Mayor Pro Tem serves the role that a vice-mayor would if Dallas had that office.

Bedlam Season 1 Episode 1

Airing Details: 9:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: LIVING Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 1

Episode Name: EPISODE: 1

Freddie Flintoff Versus the World Season 1 Episode 2

Preview of 'Freddie Flintoff Versus the World' :

Recently retired cricketing hero Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff continues his trip across the American continent to try his hand at some more extreme sports. This week Freddie hooks up with rugby star and Dancing On Ice champ Kyran Bracken in Fort Worth Texas. This is Cow Town and the pair lock horns in a ranching challenge, have a wild-west shoot out, then in the most daunting night of their lives they ride real bucking bulls in a genuine Texas Rodeo. Later on they mix with the locals at a ho-down for a spot of line dancing.

Airing Details: 9:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: ITV4 Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 2

Episode Name: EPISODE: 2

Snog, Marry, Avoid Season 4 Episode 6 Family Special - Rooneys and Wanda & Trisha

Preview of 'Snog, Marry, Avoid' :

Jenny Frost presents the world's first makeunder show with sharp-tongued computer POD, as they transform the nations slap addicts into natural beauties.

Celebrities and members of the public vote on whether they would Snog, Marry or Avoid POD's willing victims before and after the makeunder.

POD keeps it in the family when meeting Stephen and Natalie Rooney, Wayne's cousins, who are in dire need of a bit of help; a pair of clubbing cousins from Bolton with a love of all things fluorescent and fishnet; and two mangas trying to keep POD off their backs.

Airing Details: 8:30 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC THREE Channel

Episode Details: Season 4 Episode 6

Episode Name: Family Special - Rooneys and Wanda & Trisha

Mark Wilson Wins Phoenix Open Playoff

Mark Wilson won the frost-delayed Phoenix Open on Monday for his second victory in three starts this year, holing a 9-foot birdie putt on the second hole of a playoff with Jason Dufner.

Wilson, two strokes ahead when play resumed Monday, closed with a 2-under 69 to match Dufner at 18 under. Dufner shot a 66, birdieing Nos. 16 and 17.

"I'm just enjoying the ride here and that's just kind of the way I'm going to look at the year here, just ride this train as long as I can," Wilson said. "Right now, the plan is to play through Bay Hill, take a week off, get ready for the Masters."

Wilson, the 36-year-old Wisconsin player who won the Sony Open last month in a 36-hole Sunday finish, made a 4½-foot par putt on the par-18th to extend the playoff after Dufner tapped in for par. Wilson won on the par-4 10th, setting up the deciding putt with a 7-iron approach from the middle of the fairway.

"That was an easy putt," Wilson said. "Just thankfully, I started it on line and knocked it in."

Dufner was facing a 7½-foot par putt when Wilson ended the playoff.

"Came out and made a couple birdies to put maybe a little heat on Mark, and he played great," Dufner said. "Great two-putt on the first playoff hole from 70-plus feet and makes birdie on the next hole."

Delays for frost and frozen turf the first four days forced the Monday finish.

Wilson earned $1,098,000 for his fourth PGA Tour title. The former University of North Carolina player also won the 2007 Honda Classic and 2009 Mayakoba Golf Classic.

He jumped from 91st to 51st in the world ranking -- locking up a spot in the 64-man Match Play field -- after finishing last season at No. 230.

After resuming play Monday on the 13th green, Wilson made seven straight pars before holing the winning birdie putt.

He nearly drove into the water on the left side of the 18th hole in regulation, but the ball cleared the hazard and ended up in a bunker. He hit a 9-iron approach to about 14 feet and two-putted to force the playoff.

"I got away with a bad tee shot on 18, but luckily got a good bounce and was hoping I'd finish it off there," Wilson said. "But the playoff was fun."

Dufner is winless on the PGA Tour. He also settled for par on the final hole of regulation after nearly holing out from a greenside bunker.

"It's a good start to the year," Dufner said. "To be honest, this is a course that I never really thought I could compete on. History on this golf course is a lot of long-ball hitters. Mark and myself probably aren't the longest, but we're probably not the shortest. But to be able to compete and be at the top of the field for the week is good, so it's definitely good momentum for the rest of the West Coast swing."

Martin Laird (65) and Vijay Singh (66) tied for third at 16 under, and Gary Woodland (66), J.B. Holmes (67) and Nick Watney (68) followed at 15 under.

Third-round leader Tommy Gainey, a stroke back with two holes, closed with a 74 to tie for eighth at 14 under. He made a triple bogey on the par-4 17th after hitting into the water twice on the driveable hole.

"I guess I've just got to deal with it," Gainey said. "You've got to win with class and you've got to lose with class, so I'm trying to deal with that right now."

On 17, his drive hit a red hazard stake and bounced into the water, though it still might have gone even if it didn't hit the stake. After taking a penalty drop on the shaved downslope, his chip came up short and trickled into the water.

"It was pretty bad because I had to drop on the sidehill," Gainey said. "I was worried about the ball rolling back in the water instead of trying to hit the shot. I was just trying to get over it fast and just kind of get it on the green and just take a two-putt or whatever. But I was very worried about the ball rolling back in on a severe slope like that."

Phil Mickelson tied for 29th at 10 under. He finished with consecutive 71s after getting into contention with opening rounds of 67 and 65.

After playing until dark Sunday, Wilson got to watch only a few minutes of his beloved Packers' Super Bowl victory.

"I had to wash Lane's face and put his jammies on, and I had to eat, too," Wilson said. "The chaos, with two little kids running around, I like the chaos, it's a good distraction. But at that time, I want to at least get to watch the last 15 minutes of this game. This doesn't happen every year, the Packers in the Super Bowl.

"Luckily, my son, after we played Candy Land in the middle of the fourth quarter, he said, 'OK, the last two minutes we can watch it together.' So we watched that last stand, and I was happy that they somehow pulled it off."

A day later, Wilson had a big trophy, too.


Stojakovic to Make Mavs Debut Monday

Peja Stojakovic will make his debut Monday night as the Dallas Mavericks seek a ninth consecutive victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Stojakovic, who signed two weeks ago but has been hampered by a left knee issue, is set to play in just his ninth game and for his third team this season. He was traded from New Orleans to Toronto and then released by the Raptors.

"I plan on playing him," Mavs coach Rick Carlisle said. "He's worked hard, so he's ready to start playing a little bit. He's as ready as he's going to be short of playing in a game. So tonight's the night we've got to get him out there a little bit."

Stojakovic's addition to the lineup now leaves the Mavs still patiently waiting for Rodrigue Beaubois' highly anticipated return from a broken left foot that has sidelined him all season. Beaubois, who remained in Dallas with Stojakovic during the last road trip to increase his workload, will have his activity level "stepped up again," this week, Carlisle said.

Carlisle said Beaubois will begin doing "some live stuff," which could mean participating in team drills and scrimmages during practices for the first time this season. Carlisle did not answer a question as to whether Beaubois would join the team on this week's three-game road trip that begins Wednesday at Sacramento.

"That's another step in the right direction," Carlisle said. "But, I don't have a timetable for you."

Stojakovic has not played in a game since Nov. 26 with the Raptors. In eight games, the 6-foot-10 forward has averaged 8.1 points on 48.8 percent field-goal shooting and 48.4 percent from beyond the arc in 13.9 minutes a game.

In 62 games last season with New Orleans, Stojakovic averaged 12.6 points and 37.5 percent shooting from 3-point range in 31.4 minutes. He figures to become the Mavs' starting small forward if he doesn't immediately do so Monday.

"To get him back on the court and get him in the fold is going to probably take us some time, but the sooner the better, so it's good to get him before the All-Star break comes," point guard Jason Kidd said. "He can shoot the ball, we all know that. He's a competitor and a veteran guy, so he knows how to play. For us, we've got to use his strengths, get him in the fold and make him comfortable."

Since Caron Butler suffered a season-ending knee injury on Jan. 1, the spot has been in flux because Carlisle prefers to utilize Shawn Marion off the bench as a tag-team with shooting guard Jason Terry.

Marion, DeShawn Stevenson, Brian Cardinal and Sasha Pavlovic, who was waived after completing consecutive 10-day contracts, have filled in as the starting small forward.

In the past two games, Carlisle has given J.J. Barea his first two starts of the season at shooting guard with Stevenson sliding to small forward.

Hotter Than My Daughter Season 2 Episode 4

Preview of 'Hotter Than My Daughter' :

Liz McClarnon presents a series about mothers and daughters at war over their wardrobes and their relationships.

57-year-old mum Carolene is both a grandma and a glamour model. Daughter Alysha wishes her mum would tone it down, but Carolene wishes Alysha could rediscover her pre-kids hotness.

Airing Details: 8:30 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC THREE Channel

Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 4

Episode Name: EPISODE: 4

Cougar Town Season 2 Episode 2 Let Yourself Go

Preview of 'Cougar Town' :

Jules isn't ready to let Travis go to college, so she plans the entire week for them to spend every minute together. However, she is upset when he says that she's smothering him. She's even more upset when he decides to go to college earlier than planned. Jules later learns that she's not the only one that will be missing Travis, as the entire gang will be missing him as well. 20 minutes before he drives away to college, he gives Jules a nice goodbye as she craves complete with a meaningful glance. Lauren teaches Bobby how to use the Internet, which he later tells to be doing this so he can email Travis when he's away. Andy elaborates a plan to make Ellie talk more about her son, Stan, but once she begins to talk, she doesn't want to stop.

Airing Details: 8:30 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: LIVING Channel

Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 2

Episode Name: Let Yourself Go

River City Season 9 Episode 22

Preview of 'River City' :

A mysterious stranger turns up in Shieldinch asking questions about Robbie, while Scarlett runs the risk of putting her fundraising event above her health. And can Theresa ever shake off the stigma of her past wrongdoings?

Airing Details: 8:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC One Scotland Channel

Episode Details: Season 9 Episode 22

Episode Name: EPISODE: 22

Lion Country Season 2 Episode 1

Preview of 'Lion Country' :

The wildlife documentary series returns as British conservationist David Youldon continues his radical programme to help save the African lion. At the park in Zambia, male lion Zulu takes his pride one step closer to their eventual release into the wild. The six lions are darted and taken to their new home. Meanwhile back at the park, seven new lions arrive including two adult females brought in to start up a breeding programme. Later David returns to see if Zulu and his pride have settled into their new home.

Airing Details: 8:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: ITV1 Channel

Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 1

Episode Name: EPISODE: 1

Tom Brady Unanimous as NFL MVP

Here's a Brady Bunch for NFL fans: Tom Brady got all 50 votes for MVP.

The New England Patriots quarterback on Sunday became the first unanimous choice for The Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player Award since the AP began using a nationwide panel of media members who cover the league.

He surpassed himself, too: In 2007, when Brady won his first MVP, he got 49 votes; one voter went for Brett Favre.

"It is always flattering to be chosen for such a prestigious award," Brady said. "But I also look at it as a team award, as nothing in football gets accomplished without the mental toughness and determination of every player and coach associated with that team.

"I am very humbled to be a part of an organization where winning comes first, and our goals are based around the success of the team."

Those successes, including three Super Bowl titles in the last 10 years, are in great part due to Brady's excellence.

Although he didn't set nearly as many passing marks as in '07, Brady by far was the league's top performer in leading New England to a 14-2 record, best in the NFL. He had a record streak of 335 throws without being intercepted, and passed for 36 touchdowns with only four picks.

Not that the 33-year-old Brady would compare this season's Patriots to any others.

"Every team every year is different," he said, "and over the course of 100 practices and many games a team establishes its identity. Players change, schemes change, opponents change, which is why the game is so exciting year in and year out.

"The fact that 32 teams start out each year with the same goal is why the popularity of the sport is at an all-time high. The great part about our sport is that nothing comes easy, and wherever you stand at the end of the year is the exact place that you deserve to be."

Individually, Brady stands above all others. The only Patriot to win the award, he and Peyton Manning, his rival for the NFL's best quarterback, have split the last four MVPs.

Brady followed his previous MVP trophy with a lost season, tearing left knee ligaments in the first half of the 2008 opener. His return in 2009 was solid, although hand and rib injuries slowed him.

This year, even with a sore right foot that required postseason surgery, Brady was simply dynamic. He twice threw for four touchdowns in a game and four times had three. Twelve times, he had a passer rating of at least 100.

And he guided a young team in transition to 14 victories.

"Brady is so special because he's such a great leader and all the players can relate to him," team owner Robert Kraft said. "These kids [rookies] who come in live in awe of him, but the nice thing is he treats them well.

"He works very hard, he studies very hard," Kraft added. "Being a great quarterback isn't just being very skilled. It's being able to process information quickly, to make the adjustments, and I think he's fabulous at that."

As fabulous as he might have been, Brady, not surprisingly, has some regrets about 2010.

"When the season is over, 31 teams are disappointed about the outcome," he said. "There is only one champion, and nobody plays this game for second place. The desire and hunger is about winning, which to me never gets old. The motivation to get up and work every day for that goal is something that challenges us all.

"Our team has very high expectations, and our team will come back this year with the same purpose," he said. "Whether or not that leads to a championship season will be determined by the commitment each player makes to do their job as best as they possibly can."

The way Brady does.

Stansted: The Inside Story Season 1 Episode 1

Preview of 'Stansted: The Inside Story' :

The check-in staff struggle with some disgruntled passengers and the airport cops rush to the rescue of a sick baby.

Airing Details: 8:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: Five Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 1

Episode Name: EPISODE: 1

Holby City Season 13 Episode 17 Anger Management

Preview of 'Holby City' :

When patient Aislinn Marsh tells Malick she would like a consultant rather than a registrar, it soon becomes apparent that this is not entirely the truth when his replacement is Ric. Malick accuses her of being racist and she uses this as a reason to delay her operation by making a formal complaint against him, saying that he was aggressive towards her. Even though this isn't true, it is Malick's word against hers. Therefore Ric tells him that he isn't allowed to operate on her. However in theatre Aislinn goes into crisis and the team need his help. He walks out of theatre and they assume he's abandoning them, although he swiftly returns with a crash team and saves the day.

Airing Details: 8:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC One Channel

Episode Details: Season 13 Episode 17

Episode Name: Anger Management

Marquis Daniels Has Bruised Spine

Boston Celtics reserve swingman Marquis Daniels suffered a bruised spinal cord as a result of a second-quarter collision during Sunday's win over the Orlando Magic at the TD Garden.

According to a tweet from the Celtics' account on Monday, Daniels left the hospital early Monday morning and was in good spirits.

Coach Doc Rivers was texting with Daniels throughout the day Monday, and said that "as far as life, he'll be OK."

"And that's all that matters to me right now," Rivers said.

Daniels fell face-first to the parquet after the initial injury. After being attended to by team doctors and arena paramedics, Daniels needed to be taken from the court on a stretcher in a scary scene that marred a nationally televised battle of rivals.

"Marquis is doing well," Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge said at a news conference with team physician Brian McKeon on Sunday. "I was just with him at New England Baptist Hospital. He's moving, he's fine. His arms and his legs, everything is fine."

Ainge indicated that Daniels will be sidelined at least one month, possibly longer. While he has regained motor functions, Daniels will undergo a battery of tests, including CT scans, MRIs and serial examinations, in order to determine the severity of the injury.

Both Ainge and McKeon noted that Daniels has experienced spine issues in the past and he endured a similar scare last year in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals in Orlando. He was diagnosed with a concussion after that game, but did not suffer one Sunday, McKeon said.

Ainge visited Daniels at the hospital during Sunday's game.

"He just wanted to know the score of the game," Ainge said. "He had talked with his wife and his mother. He was fine."

Asked how the team moves forward, McKeon said the key is simply observation and time, especially given his past history.

"I think he was scared when he was on the court, because he couldn't really move there for a short period of time, so that scared him," Ainge said. "But he's had some issues with this before and some tingling in his body -- his arms and things before."

With 11:01 to play in the second quarter, Daniels posted up on Magic guard Gilbert Arenas, but appeared to snag his neck as he attempted to drive toward the basket. Daniels collided with Arenas' chest and seemed to briefly lose consciousness. Daniels collapsed forward, landing face-first on the floor.

After a long stoppage in play, Daniels gave a thumbs up to the crowd as he was being taken from the court on the stretcher.

Rivers knew immediately there was something wrong as Daniels fell prone.

"Right when he went down, I was already out on the floor," Rivers said. "I don't know who -- Gilbert or someone -- was standing near him and I just told him, 'Don't touch him.' Because you could see it was not good."

Said Celtics captain Paul Pierce: "Obviously when you see a guy lay down there for a [period] of time, you get worried and you pray and hope that he's all right. When we came back to the locker room at halftime, I asked how he was doing and they said he was moving and doing pretty good. I guess he has some type of condition in his neck or spine that I didn't know about. … Hopefully he can take some time off, hopefully he can get back on the court, but, most importantly, we're more worried about his health."

The Magic players also were concerned.

"I guess everyone thought he hit my knee or something, but when he turned and faced, I know his neck probably hit [my chest], trying to turn, because I was close to him, and then from there he just hit the floor," Arenas said. "I thought I tripped him or something, so I was trying to pick him up, but [a Celtics player] said, 'Don't touch him because he has neck problems.'"

Arenas said he didn't see or hear anything as Daniels suffered the injury.

"No, he just turned and faced and was trying to go fast, and then 'Boom,' and he just hit the floor. I heard him hit the floor hard. I thought he probably had a little concussion, but, I know Kevin Garnett said, 'Did he hit your knee?' and I said, 'I don't think so.' And then he said, 'He has neck problems,' so sometimes when his neck goes in the wrong [position] he gets paralyzed for a little bit."

"It was scary, man, scary," guard Jameer Nelson said. "I was praying for him. It could happen to anybody. You never want to see a guy get injured and taken off on a stretcher."

Celtics guard Ray Allen isn't sure how the team collected itself because everyone's thoughts were on Daniels.

"I was trying to process what just happened and, when I saw the way he hit the ground, I just started thinking about any time I watched a football game and I saw a guy on the ground, how their body just kind of didn't respond to anything," Allen said. "It looked like he got hit in the wrong spot, where whatever happened to his body he just couldn't move. And when I saw his face, it was the scariest feeling because it was almost like he couldn't do anything. It's the risk we always run, but for that moment it just seemed like, 'Let me go to the hospital and let me do what I need to do to see that he's all right,' because basketball was the last thing on my mind."


Cougar Town Season 2 Episode 1 All Mixed Up

Preview of 'Cougar Town' :

The gang creates a new game called Movie Mash-up, where they mix up movies titles and the winner takes wine, and Jules is feeling bad because she's not very good at the game. In the meantime, Jules has been seeing a great shrink named Glenn (Jennifer Aniston), who often regales Jules with stories about her own son, Gabriel, which creates a certain bond between the two of them. When Glenn tells Jules that it's not a bad thing to give Grayson some free time without her, Jules decides to run into Glenn outside her office. However, when Glenn sees Jules coming, she tries to speed away, but she plows into a parked car. Ellie begins to suspect that Glenn might not be as good as Jules think when she notes that Glenn hadn't left a note on the person's car. Jules refuses to believe this until she realizes that Gabriel is Glenn's dog, which is enough to end their good relationship. Bobby has been having a hard time dealing with Jules and Grayson's dating, where he takes his anger out by drawing on Jules' advertising face. Meanwhile, Laurie and Travis make a bet on who can stay awake longer. She cheats, and later tells Travis that she'll miss him.

Airing Details: 8:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: LIVING Channel

Episode Details: Season 2 Episode 1

Episode Name: All Mixed Up

Gok's Clothes Roadshow Season 1 Episode 3

Preview of 'Gok's Clothes Roadshow' :

Gok's Clothes Roadshow arrives in Leeds where the great man sets about rescuing three detectives who are guilty of committing crimes against fashion.

Airing Details: 8:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: Channel 4

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 3

Episode Name: EPISODE: 3

A Farmer's Life For Me Season 1 Episode 2

Preview of 'A Farmer's Life For Me' :

Nine couples with a dream of leaving the rat-race have the opportunity of a lifetime when they compete to run their very own farm in Suffolk. From factory workers to city execs, they all share a passion for the outdoor life - but do they have what it takes to make it in farming?

In each episode, self-made pig farmer Jimmy Doherty introduces the couples to a different aspect of the business, to decide who will be next to leave the competition.

Airing Details: 8:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC TWO Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 2

Episode Name: EPISODE: 2

Roger Goodell: Latest Talks 'Beneficial'

Quarterbacks Peyton Manning and Drew Brees were among the star players who attended a negotiating session between the NFL and players' union Saturday, league sources told ESPN's Chris Mortensen.

While it is not unusual for players to occasionally sit in on negotiations, the presence of Manning was a surprise and is an early indication that the union is successfully getting the support of its superstar quarterbacks. During the 1987 players strike and subsequent labor strife, several of the league's star passers broke union ranks by signing licensing rights with the NFL which weakened the union revenue pool.

Manning was also joined at Saturday's meeting by Brees, who has been an activist as the team's player representative. Sources did not reveal if any players spoke during the negotiating session but their presence was considered symbolic, at the very least. Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, who was named the NFL's MVP on Sunday for the 2010 season, also has been an outspoken pro-union player rep.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said the two-hour meeting with the players' union was "beneficial."

"My focus is on the next three or four weeks," Goodell said. "I've often said, our agreement expires on March 4th. We have to use that period of time to reach an agreement that's fair for the players, fair for the clubs, and allows our great game to grow for our fans."

In an interview with "Fox News Sunday" that aired the morning of the Super Bowl, Goodell called drug testing a key issue in labor talks. Goodell also addressed the NFL's labor issues on Sunday in an appearance on ESPN Radio's "Mike and Mike in the Morning".

The two-hour meeting did not delve deeply into the issues that have created a fairly wide gulf that could lead to a lockout on March 4 when the current CBA expires. However, sources on both sides felt the meetings had some positive production as the owners and players scheduled at least two sessions this week and made progress on a working agenda.

In addition to Goodell and his lead labor negotiators, sources said there were five owners present -- Jerry Richardson of the Panthers, Robert Kraft of the Patriots, Clark Hunt of the Chiefs, John Mara of the Giants and Dean Spanos of the Chargers.

Richardson, who is co-chairman of the owners negotiating committee, continues to be perceived as the least flexible and most pessimistic spokesman for the owners, sources have noted on both sides.

In an interview with ESPN Radio's "Mike and Mike in the Morning, NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith said it was a "good meeting" but said "I don't think anyone went into the meeting with the idea that we were going to build Rome in one day."

Smith said the sides have been talking continually and it's probably better that those talks aren't publicized.

Outlining major sticking points, Goodell talked about revenue division, rookie salaries and benefits for retired players. He added: "We want to continue on with the integrity of the game, which is my No. 1 issue" and spoke of "making sure we have the best drug program in sports."

Both Goodell and Smith said that expanding the NFL season to 18 games wouldn't be a deal breaker either way. But Smith said that the NFL must address post-career health care if the league does add two games each season. Currently, Smith said, only players who play three seasons in the NFL are eligible for post-career health care and adding two games to a season will likely shorten NFL careers.

Smith said the key issue is the money the owners want the players to give back in a new deal.

"At the economic height of this game, the owners want the players to give a billion dollars back. The only thing we ask is why and to demonstrate that," Smith said.

Sources: Jon Bon Jovi in Falcons Talks

New Jersey rock star Jon Bon Jovi has been in confidential negotiations with Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank in which Bon Jovi would purchase 15 percent of the NFL franchise for $150 million, according to league sources.

Blank on Sunday morning acknowledged the talks but downplayed them as "discussions that are unlikely" to produce a partnership with Bon Jovi. He would not elaborate, except to add that he did not think it was newsworthy at this stage.

Bon Jovi released a statement on Monday where he also admitted discussions had taken place but that there is nothing immediately on the horizon.

"Some months ago, I was approached by the Atlanta Falcons and there have been discussions regarding my ownership interest," the statement said. "At this time, there are no further negotiations with the Falcons."

Blank is among a select group of owners who have been seeking more minority partners to gain an infusion of cash that in Blank's case will also help him realize his plans to build a new outdoor stadium in the Atlanta area.

Bon Jovi was owner of the Philadelphia Soul, an Arena League team for five years from 2004-2009.

"Since helping to establish the Philadelphia Soul Arena Football team -- from its inception through our 2008 championship season -- I have always made clear my desire to someday enter the NFL," Bon Jovi said.

The two sides have signed a confidentiality agreement not to disclose details of negotiations but a league source pegged the financial talks based on a $1 billion valuation of the Atlanta franchise. Each percentage point would be valued at $10 million to arrive at the proposed $150 million on a 15 percent purchase, another source said.

EastEnders Season 27 Episode 23

Preview of 'EastEnders' :

Alfie tries to lift his spirits with a Mexican night at the Vic, but the party atmosphere is soured when he reaches breaking point with Kat.

Whitney is left isolated as Janine issues her with a savage ultimatum, while Afia has some devastating news for Tamwar. Ronnie goes to desperate lengths in an attempt to find out more about Michael.

Airing Details: 7:30 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC One Channel

Episode Details: Season 27 Episode 23

Episode Name: EPISODE: 23

Extraordinary Dogs Season 1 Episode 2

Preview of 'Extraordinary Dogs' :

Maureen has a very special relationship with her collie Max. “He’s changed my life,” she gushes. Two years ago, the once affectionate Max began to keep his distance from his owner. “He just wasn’t happy near me,” Maureen says. The dog would sniff her breath, then touch her breasts. “I instantly knew something was wrong,” Maureen confides. Convinced that she had a disease, Maureen went to a doctor and managed to catch her early-stage breast cancer.

It has long been known that certain breeds of do can sniff out cancer in humans. The Cancer and Biodetection Dogs charity has proven conclusively that dogs can smell bladder cancer in the sufferers' urine. As dogs have a sense of smell thousands of times stronger than humans, the charity hopes to use the animals for early detection and treatment, possibly saving thousands of lives.

Airing Details: 7:30 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: Five Channel

Episode Details: Season 1 Episode 2

Episode Name: EPISODE: 2

The One Show Season 5 Episode 136

Preview of 'The One Show' :

If it has Britain talking then it will be talked about on the One Show. Alex Jones, Chris Evans and the team present the stories that matter from across the country.

Airing Details: 7:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC One Channel

Episode Details: Season 5 Episode 136

Episode Name: EPISODE: 136

Natural World Season 30 Episode 11 Chimps of the Lost Gorge

Preview of 'Natural World' :

A real-life drama about a family of chimps trapped in a lost world. They live in a deep and ancient forested gorge that runs though the African savannah and for fifteen years it has been cut off from the rest of the jungle, leaving the chimps imprisoned.

Here, they face a daily life-or-death dilemma: whether to leave the safety of the gorge and venture into the predator-ridden savannah to find food, or face hunger. There's now only twenty of them left and as Brutus the alpha male loses his grip, can the family hold it together or is time running out for the Kyambura chimps?

Airing Details: 7:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: BBC TWO Channel

Episode Details: Season 30 Episode 11

Episode Name: Chimps of the Lost Gorge

Emmerdale Season 40 Episode 32

Preview of 'Emmerdale' :

Val wonders if they have bitten off more than they can chew with Amy. Charity is impressed by Jai's generosity. Aaron fails to connect with Flynn - but Jackson insists on meeting him. Cain attempts to lay down the law with Charity. Will Amy ever be able to make up for her bad behaviour?With Charlie Hardwick, Chelsea Halfpenny, Emma Atkins, Christopher Bisson, and Danny Miller.

Airing Details: 7:00 PM on February 8th, 2011 - Tuesday

Channel: ITV1 Channel

Episode Details: Season 40 Episode 32

Episode Name: EPISODE: 32

Mark Zuckerberg -- I Fear My Facebook Stalker

Mark Zuckerberg claims he's being stalked by a man who's been sending him creepy messages through Facebook and threatening his safety ... TMZ has learned.

Zuckerberg has obtained a restraining order against 31-year-old Pradeep Manukonda -- after Mark filed legal papers claiming the guy has tried to "follow, surveil and contact Mr. Zuckerberg using language threatening his personal safety" ... and the safety of his girlfriend and his sister.

Law enforcement sources tell us Pradeep had gone to several Facebook offices in Palo Alto attempting to contact Mark to ask for money for his financially-strapped family.

According to the legal docs, Facebook security also intercepted Pradeep at Mark's home on January 24 just as he was about to walk up the front steps.

Cops gave Pradeep a verbal warning -- but Mark claims the guy has continued to try to contact him through the mail ... even sending flowers to his home with a hand-written letter on January 28.

In one of his Facebook messages to Mark, Pradeep writes, "please help me, then I am ready to die for you." He continues, "Please understand my pain."

The judge has ordered Pradeep to stay at least 300 yards away from Mark, his sister Randi and his girlfriend Priscilla Chan pending a hearing later this month.

Golden Globes Fight Back Against Payola Allegations

The Hollywood Foreign Press Association is firing back ... suing the PR firm that sued them last month ... claiming they broke their contract when they tried airing the HFPA's dirty laundry and accused them of accepting payola.

The PR company The Michael Russell Group sued the HFPA in January claiming they were lied to when the HFPA unceremoniously dumped them in 2009. But the biggest part of that lawsuit was that the MRG alleged the HFPA accepted money and gifts in exchange for Golden Globes.

Now the HFPA has filed a lawsuit of its own, saying the MRG committed fraud when they did several deals on behalf of the HFPA ... that also benefited themselves.

They also allege the MRG violated their contract by trying to to embarrass the HFPA when they "manufactured a fanciful tale of Hollywood intrigue ... with its colorful reference to 'payola.'"

The HFPA claims the MRG's allegations come "without a shred of evidence."

They are suing for breach of contract and fraud and are asking for unspecified damages.

Tony Hawk Files for Divorce from Wife #3

Tony Hawk has filed for divorce ... and if those words sound familiar ... it's because it's the third time the world's greatest skater has called off a marriage.

Tony and soon-to-be-ex-wife #3 Lhotse Merriam released a statement to People.com saying, "We remain deeply committed and loving parents to our daughter, and out of respect for that responsibility we ask that people honor our family's privacy during this important time of transition."

Tony filed the docs Friday in San Diego. The two have been married since 2006 -- they have one child together.

Michael Moore to Harvey Weinstein: You Screwed Me!

Michael Moore claims movie mogul Harvey Weinstein and brother Robert cheated him out of millions of dollars in profits for the movie, "Fahrenheit 9/11," by secretly diverting profits ... even using Michael's money to fly one of the Weinstein bros. to Europe by private jet.

In a lawsuit filed today in L.A. County Superior Court and obtained by TMZ, Moore's company, Westside Productions, claims Moore had a deal with the Weinsteins' company -- The Fellowship Adventure Group -- to split profits 50/50 for the flick.

In legal docs filed by Moore's celebrity lawyer, Larry Stein, he alleges the Weinsteins used "bogus accounting methods to hide the true amounts due Westside." Moore also claims the Weinsteins secretly diverted a fortune in profits to themselves.

"Fahrenheit 9/11" is the top-grossing documentary of all time, pulling in $222 million worldwide.

The lawsuit seeks in excess of $2.7 million.

UPDATE: Weinstein's lawyer, Bert Fields, tells TMZ, "Michael Moore has been paid over $20 million on this film. Under the contract he's not entitled to another dime. His claims are baloney and the timing is very suspicious."

Kelsey and Camille Grammer Strike Deal

Kelsey Grammer and soon-to-be ex-wife Camille Grammer have struck a deal which will allow Kelsey to get a quickie divorce and marry his girlfriend.

Kelsey's lawyer, Lance Spiegel, and Camille's attorney Neal Hersh, told the judge this AM that they have reached a deal, so the judge can grant the final divorce now and issues of property and money will be resolved at a later date.

But there was a little snag. Neither party had signed the settlement papers, so the judge said she couldn't enter the divorce decree just yet.

The parties agreed to submit the signed settlement by Thursday. Sources tell us it will take a week or two after that for the decree to be entered.

So it's still possible for Kelsey to execute his plan ... to marry GF Kayte Walsh by the end of the month.

BTW, the parties agreed that Kelsey will post a $2 million bond for the next 18 months, to protect Camille's interest in Kelsey's pension.

Shia LaBeouf Had Been Looking for a Bar Fight

Shia LaBeouf has been a constant irritation at an L.A. sports bar recently -- with patrons complaining about his drunken, violent behavior ... even before a fight left him in handcuffs this weekend.

TMZ spoke with sources connected to Mad Bull's Tavern in Sherman Oaks, CA -- who tell us, the actor has been hanging around a lot lately ... but, "Every time Shia comes to the bar, he's a problem and it's starting to get old."

We're told Shia was the instigator in another testosterone-fueled incident just a few weeks ago -- in which bar staff had to break up close to 15 people before an intense pushing match turned into an all-out brawl.

As for Shia's fight this weekend, Mad Bull's owner Richard Disisto tells us, "The boys were out drinking, boys had too much to drink, one guy comments to the other and the next thing you know someone gets punched. Whattya gonna do? It happens."

As we previously reported, cops arrived to the scene and put Shia in handcuffs -- but he was never arrested.

Don't Call Delroy Lindo the Villain of Fox's 'Chicago Code'

In “The Chicago Code,” a riveting new crime series from Fox, all eyes are on actor Delroy Lindo, who plays a powerful politician. He’s the man, as they say.

He’s also the target. His character, alderman Ronin Gibbons, has amassed considerable juice over two decades, apparently bending rules and busting heads along the way. Now, a maverick cop (Jason Clarke) and the city’s first female police superintendent (Jennifer Beals) are determined to take him down.

But while Gibbons might be the villain at the heart of this promising series from Shawn Ryan (“The Shield”), Lindo doesn’t really see his character as a bad person.

“I’m trying to head off any simple, one-dimensional perceptions of who he is,” Lindo says during a phone conversation. “He’s a politician and business man with a pragmatic side. He does what needs to be done. He does what he believes is best for his constituents and, in his mind, sometimes the end justifies the means.”

Clearly, Lindo, 58, who cut his teeth as an actor during his days with the American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco, wasn’t interested in just another cartoonish thug whose mere appearance screams evil. And neither was Ryan, who encouraged Lindo to project a fullness of character.

Mission accomplished. In “The Chicago Code,” Lindo dabbles in an intriguing kind of moral elasticity. One moment, he’s laying on the velvety charm (“I always have time for my people,” he says, smiling.). The next, he’s exuding a subtle ruthlessness that can send shivers down your spine. So magnetic is he that you feel his presence even when he’s off the screen.

That magnetism is undoubtedly enhanced by a flashy wardrobe. Lindo’s Gibbons is all sartorial splendor, decked out in $2,000 suits and glittery watches as he makes his way through the streets of the Windy City.

“We very much wanted that to be part of the character,” Lindo says. “He’s a man who not only has a master’s power, he wants his constituents to be proud of him. He’s very aware of how he looks.”

As for the show, it, too, has the looks of a winner. “Code” might lack the darkness and grit of “The Shield,” but it benefits from a compelling, densely layered narrative, a solid cast (including Matt Lauria of “Friday Night Lights”), lots of visual verve and an offbeat rhythm that separates it from the pack of standard cop dramas.

It’s also a great showcase for Chicago. Ryan, an Illinois native, and crew filmed entirely on location and fully immersed “Code” into its setting. You can almost taste the deep-dish pizza.

Along with his fellow cast mates, Lindo relocated to Chicago for the six-month shoot. Now he’s pleased to be back in the Bay Area, where he shares a home in the Oakland hills with his wife and 9-year-old son.

Born in England to Jamaican immigrants, Lindo moved to Toronto and then San Francisco when he was 16. Much of his life since then has been spent in the Bay Area, despite a belief that it presents some career disadvantages.

“I think I do pay a price on some level (for not living in Southern California),” he says. “It’s the whole out-of-sight, out-of-mind thing. You’re only as good as your last job, and if there’s a period of time when (producers) aren’t seeing you on screen, or around town, or at a Lakers game, you can drop off the radar.”

As evidence, Lindo points out that, two years ago, he was set to take a meeting with network executives to discuss a possible role in a TV series. Despite an impressive resume that includes memorable roles in such films as “The Cider House Rules,” “Clockers,” “Get Shorty” and “Malcolm X,” he was told before the meeting that the network chief didn’t know who he was.

“I was stunned,” he recalls.

Nevertheless, Lindo remains entrenched in the Bay Area, where, in recent years, his directorial skills have been on display at Berkeley Repertory Theatre in productions of “Blue Door” and “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone.”

“I’ve always just felt that the entertainment-centric obsession that exists in Los Angeles is not a good fit for me,” he says. “It just seems that its healthier for me not to be there.”

“The Chicago Code” represents Lindo’s second foray into series television. The first was “Kidnapped,” a 2006 serial drama that earned a quick cancellation on NBC.

Perhaps because of that experience, Lindo is taking nothing for granted this time around — even though “Code” has generated positive early buzz and will receive what is expected to be a major promotional push during Sunday’s Super Bowl.

“It seems to me that trying to make a successful television show is a crapshoot,” he says. “So I’m taking a circumspect attitude. We’ll see what happens.”

Mark Wahlberg and Other Underplayers: Appreciated, if not Nominated

Mark Wahlberg recedes.

Your eyes can come off him, and he’s fine with that; he may be the only actor alive for whom this is true. He is often at the center of the action, yet much of his time is spent watching. He hangs back, passive. At times he can appear one severed muscle away from slack-jawed, but that’s only if you are not paying attention to what is and, more important, what is not happening.

He doesn’t, for instance, chew scenery, grandstand, prattle or erupt; he doesn’t disappear into roles, tumbling inward, losing a third of his body weight, until the actor is no more, a loosey-goosey transformation occurs and all that remains is… character! truth! Wahlberg, as far as I can tell, does not know method brooding, even if, between “The Departed” and “The Lovely Bones,” he seems constantly surrounded by it.

He is not show-offy. He does not even look especially thrilled to have a camera pointed at him. Which is why this awards season, from the vantage of my couch, I have felt so uncomfortable for Mark Wahlberg, a parade of trophies for everyone near him, none for him.

Wahlberg sits at those round banquet tables, and in those auditorium seats, the camera circles, the nominees are read and he stares and adjusts the lower half of his face into what would take a team of mathematicians with laser-precise calibration tools to confirm is a smile. Yes, arguably, by association and nothing else, at the Screen Actors Guild Awards alone, Wahlberg could claim to be part of four awards — two for “Boardwalk Empire,” of which he is a producer, two for “The Fighter,” in which he is ... well, see, this is why it’s been awkward lately. Wahlberg plays the primary fighter in “The Fighter,” of course, and yet, if you get your movie summaries from the 20-second clips doled out during award shows, Wahlberg might seem expendable, supporting, the backdrop that Christian Bale’s bug-eyed failed boxer and junkie brother Dick Eklund uses to droop one of his rubbery limbs across, the listening board that Melissa Leo’s self-congratulatory stage mother/boxing manager uses to remind Wahlberg’s Micky Ward of how indispensible she is.

It’s a cliche of award seasons, and not particularly shocking, that overt virtuosity shines brightest, particularly with actors, and that showy roles draw attention and trophies, and salt-of-the-earth performances devoid of crying or wide-eyed shouting or physical maladies or acting draw nothing. Wahlberg himself is not always so modest. In just the three David O. Russell pictures he’s been in, “The Fighter,” “I Heart Huckabees” and “Three Kings,” he’s shown range, playing a portrait of quietude (“The Fighter”), a dizzyingly hyperactive motor mouth (“Huckabees”) and a virtuous, all-purpose action guy.

In Martin Scorsese’s “The Departed,” for which he received an Oscar nomination for supporting actor, he was memorably and hilariously devoid of a thought filter, spouting Mamet-like invectives and zeroing in on every hint of weakness. And though he may be the only central character in “The Fighter” who wasn’t nominated for an acting Academy Award, as one of the film’s three producers, he could take home an Oscar if “The Fighter” pulls an upset victory.

So let’s not cry for him.

But that stillness and vaguely projected unease, even in his most boisterous roles, feels unique, original and understandably overlooked. He is among that rare breed of actor who intentionally underplays, resists, pulls back, shuts up. And yet his wide-open face also suggests naivete; his mellow, spacey voice suggests flakiness, not tenderness; and the way his eyes grow heavy-lidded doesn’t feel intentional. But it is intentional. He is the kind of actor who, as Lee Server wrote in a 2002 biography of Robert Mitchum, trusts “the camera’s occult powers, its peculiar and inexplicable ability, under the right circumstances and with a compatible human subject, to read an actor’s thoughts.” Does it matter if those thoughts rarely seem especially complicated?

You always know what Wahlberg is thinking in “The Fighter,” and it’s usually something like, “Can’t we all get along here?”

In other words, there’s a deceptive simplicity involved, but it’s one that feels quite different from what we expect of the other actors we associate with downplaying and laying low. It’s closest, I think, to the stature of Gary Cooper, who gave off a similar haunted rugged decency, though without the slight threat of violence that Wahlberg’s rangy heaviness can exude. They share a laconic strut, and what film writer David Thomson describes in Cooper as an odd, introspective “preoccupation with some deeper mystery.” But there are also shades here of Spencer Tracy’s shrewdness and lack of pretense. Among women, his closest kin seems to be, oh, Michelle Williams, who never appears to ask the audience for anything; though, ironically, she was nominated for a best actress Oscar for “Blue Valentine,” and her showier co-star, Ryan Gosling, who gives off a decent whiff of method, was left behind.

Which feels both like good judgment on the Academy’s part and further evidence that they don’t know how to read Wahlberg’s own brand of low-key.

He doesn’t, for instance, suggest genuine disinterest — that would be Bill Murray’s brand. And as proven by Jonathan Demme’s “The Truth About Charlie,” his remake of “Charade,” Wahlberg doesn’t have the expressiveness to be a leading man — let alone settle into the shoes of Cary Grant. Which is probably for the best: Wahlberg seems too smart to allow himself to be limited into the role of a Steve McQueen-ish icon. Rather, he works best with others, as the straight man to Will Ferrell in “The Other Guys” or just popping in and cameoing as a random hot guy opposite Tina Fey in “Date Night.”

He has found a place all to himself, where letting a film happen around you doesn’t mean being bland but modestly reactive, natural. At times that blandness serves as a blank slate (“Boogie Nights”); at times it gets misplaced as quiet magnetism (“Rock Star”); and at times it seems so familiar it veers into self-parody (“The Happening”). But at its best, in “The Fighter,” it suggests an entire soul. His Micky Ward is an introverted guy who never gets a word in, and Wahlberg shows this by internalizing what the film is about, by reflecting the plot through his slow steady assembling of confidence, by staying passive. He never finds much of a voice, and when does it’s a whine: He needs to distance himself from his family without shutting them out.

But, unlike, say, Sylvester Stallone in another popular boxing movie, Wahlberg shows no triumph, no evidence he is aware of his own effect. And that may be why Wahlberg is one of our smartest actors — he’s perfectly comfortable being the salt of the earth when you know he could be Spencer Tracy.