TV BANTER : 2024

Friday, December 20, 2024

Malcolm in the Middle Revival

"'Malcolm in the Middle" is a landmark sitcom that captured the essence of family life with humor, heart and reliability. It hilarious and heartfelt portrayal of a lovably chaotic family resonated with audiences of all ages, and we're so excited to welcome the original cast back to bring the magic to life again."

- Ayo Davis

President, Disney Branded Television

There is some great news for fans of Malcolm in the Middle. The series, which ran for seven seasons on Fox TV (2000-2006) is getting a four-episode revival on the Disney+ streaming service. The series creator, Linwood Boomer, will write all four new episodes. Returning to their original roles will be Frankie Muniz as Malcolm, and Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek as Hal and Lois, Malcolm's parents.

In the very first episode of the original series, Malcolm is revealed to have a genius IQ, and is placed in a class for gifted students. Malcom is the third child in a hilariously dysfunctional family of four (later five) sons. A fifth son, Jamie, played by James and Lukas Rodriguez, was added to the cast in season four. Hard-working Lois, is a disciplinarian and keeps a watchful eye on her sons.

It seems that Malcom and his family were never given a last name. It's some kind of inside joke. In one episode, when Malcolm was called on stage, the microphone screeched and his last name was covered up. However, the man who introduced Malcom clearly mouthed "Nolastname." On Bryan Cranston's official website, Cranston states that the crew regularly joked among themselves that their last name is really "Nolastname."

The earliest episodes of Malcom in the Middle focus on Malcolm's problems dealing with the pressures of being an intellectual and the challenges presented by his quirky family. His delinquent eldest brother, Francis (Christopher Kennedy Masterson) is sent away to military school. Malcolm remains at home with his two other brothers, Reese (Justin Berfield) and Dewey (Eric Per Sullivan). In the absence of Francis, Malcom becomes the middle child. Hence, the title of the series.

Christopher Kennedy Masterson and Justin Berfield, who played Malcolm's siblings in the original series, are likely to return, although it was not official at the time of this writing. However, Eric Per Sullivan, who played younger brother Dewey, is not expected to return. He retired from acting years ago and hasn't returned for any reunions.

The revival of the series will focus on the 40th wedding anniversary of Malcolm's parents. Here is the official synopsis:

Malcolm (Muniz) and his daughter are drawn into the family’s chaos when Hal (Cranston) and Lois (Kaczmarek) demand his presence for their 40th wedding anniversary party.

SOURCES: Forbes, "Malcom The Middle Reboot Coming To Disney+," by Marc Berman, December 13, 2024; Yahoo Entertainment News, "Malcom in the Middle Revival with Original Cast Coming to Disney+," by Eric Diaz, December 13, 2024; Wikipedia; Internet Movie Database (IMDb)

- Joanne

Saturday, November 30, 2024

Y&R Report (Saturday, November 30, 2024): The Latest on The Young and the Restless

Hey Y&R fans, every second Saturday TV Banter discusses the latest happenings and provides commentary on your favourite daytime drama. Note to U.S. readers - SPOILER ALERT: Here in Canada, I watch the show on Global TV, which is one episode ahead of CBS. I will inevitably refer to incidents you haven't seen yet. Read at your own risk. If you are the curious type, though, you may prefer to discover some things in advance.

Hi fans,

Well, the November Sweeps have drawn to a close on Y&R, but the show is just gearing up for the holiday season. We will see what Christmas and the New Year have in store for the Newman, Abbott and Winters families.

Could Y&R be setting the stage for a "Who Shot Victor Newman" extravaganza. Signs are pointing in that direction. Victor certainly has a lot of enemies, and there are several potential suspects. Many citizens of Genoa City would love to see him get his comeuppance. Billy has already asked Phyllis to help him bring Vitor down. No doubt Billy Boy would be a prime suspect. Then there's Jack and Diane and Kyle. Now that Kyle has reconciled with his parents, the trio will unite against Victor. Meanwhile, Lily and Audra have their own grievances against The Moustache. He threw Lily under the bus in favour of Nikki. He used Audra and fired her. So, all those characters would also love to bring The Big Man down. Victor also has two other formidable enemies lurking out there - Aunt Jordan and Ian Ward.

Speaking of the evil duo, the writers have still not given us a credible explanation as to how Jordan escaped from a maximum security prison. She thanked Ian for helping to free her, but how did he do it? Why did he do it? What is his connection to Jordan? I guess we are not suppose to ask such questions of a soap.

The two villains are targeting Sharon right now. They are probably responsible for Heather's death and Phyllis' car crash. Sharon wishes to plead guilty. She will receive a harsh sentence, but she will obviously be exonerated when the real culprits, Jordan and Ian, are exposed.

What should we keep our eye on in the near future. Here's what Y&R head writer Josh Griffith told Soap Opera Digest when asked about which duos are the ones to watch: "I think we're definitely going to need to keep our eye on Claire and Kyle. I think that's a Romeo and Juliet story just waiting to happen because we've got two warring families [in their background]. And I think the audience is going to be intrigued by a Billy/Sally/Phyllis triangle. And I think that Lily is going to find true love."

Here's what I have to say in reply to Mr. Griffith. Kyle and Claire have some serious hurdles to overcome. I think Summer will really interfere with their romance. She has just broken up with Chance after the terrible way he handled Heather's murder investigation. It's interesting that Chance has no regrets over the way he handled the case. He should have many regrets.

Summer is getting along better with Kyle now. She's never really trusted Claire and she doesn't want to see Claire with her ex. She looks quite upset whenever she sees Kyle and Claire together. In fact, she will probably try and win Kyle back. I'm not sure if Summer still has romantic feelings for Kyle, or if she just wants to prevent Claire from becoming even closer to Harrison, and replacing her as Harrison's mother figure. Also, Victor does not want Claire involved romantically with Kyle. He will also interfere.

So far, I am not impressed with the pairing of Billy and Sally. It just seems contrived, a second-rate rebound relationship. I don't see the chemistry there. Sally had much more chemistry with Adam, who was quite upset to see her cozying up to Billy. I think it was a combination of jealousy and the fact that he despises Billy Boy.

Will Lily find true love with Damian, Nate's long lost half-brother? I expect Damian to shake things up, but I don't think he'll be a really bad person. There are enough evil characters on Y&R right now. Damian is coning to Genoa City for a reason and I'm sure that there will be conflict between him and Nate. I can't see Nate being pleased about his cousin Lily with Damian. Another possibility is that Damian will fall for Audra and cause friction between Nate and Audrea. Nate could end up being really jealous and angry with his brother.

Turning back to Lily, is it possible that she could strike up a romance with Chance, now that he and Summer seem to have split permanently? She really is due for some good luck after all the disappoints she's had lately. Daniel dumped her for Heather. Victor and Nikki Newman deceived her into thinking she would return to Chancellor company, when all along they intended for Nikki to run it. Lily was so upset about losing Chancellor that she almost didn't go to Devon and Abby's marriage ceremony.. Nevertheless, she did end up attending the wedding, only to hear Jill explain that she had sold the company to Victor, and would not reinstate Lily.

Okay, fans. Here's what Griffith promised for the near future of Y&R. He said, "It's going to be an exciting winter. I think that from now until the end of 2024, fans can look forward to a roller coaster of suspense, romance, family explosions and twist and turns like they haven't seen." I only hope the show lives up to that promise.

VIEWER FORUM

If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them You do not have to use your real name.

My email address: jmadden16@yahoo.ca

I received an email from longtime Y&R fan, Carly in Barhaven, Ontario. Here is what she wrote:

Y&R is not as enjoyable as it used to be. The storylines are ridiculous. As if a convicted criminal could escape from jail again.

I am sick of the storyline about Jack/Diane/Kyle. Hope it comes to some kind of conclusion soon.

Billy and Sally, I saw that coming. I don't care one way or the other.

Traci and the doctor. I'm thinking the evil twin.

Looks like Summer is jealous over the Claire/Kyle relationship. Is her romance with Chance over??? Phyllis will be out for revenge. Stay tuned.

Well Carly, I guess you have to suspend reality when you watch a soap. I actually think the show has improved since Ed Scott (Melody Thomas Scott's real-life husband) returned as senior producer. For one thing, the recent Halloween and Thanksgiving episodes were enjoyable. I am also pleased that the original Newman ranch has been restored.

I have also been tired of the constant bickering between Kyle and his parents. Thankfully, they see to have mended fences.

I also saw a Billy and Sally coming. However, as I mentioned, I don't really like them together. The chemistry isn't right. It just seems so contrived, just a reaction to Adam and Chelsea.

Traci seems so happy with the Dr. Alan. Could it be his evil twin, Martin.. It's certainly a possibly. Everything is going so smoothly for them. Ashley hasn't even seem upset that Traci and Alan have connected. She seems more upset that Jack and Diane are still together. So, yes, there could be a twist in that storyline. However, if Traci is really with the evil twin, you'd think she would have sensed something is off. with him.

I think Summer's romance with Chance is over, at least for the time being. She is definitely going to be an obstacle to Claire and Kyle's relationship. It seems that nothing can go smoothly soap characters. Otherwise there wouldn't be any conflict.

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Christopher Cousins (Alan)

Could Dr. Alan Laurent's evil twin, Martin, be posing as the good doctor? Is poor Traci in for a tremendous disappointment? Are both Traci and Ashley n danger? Is Traci's wonderful romance just an illusion? Is Martin just pretending to be in love with her. If so, what happened to the real Alan? Is he dead? What do you think, fans? Respond to the poll below and let me know.

That's all for now. Don't forget that he next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday December 14, 2024.

Take care,

Joanne

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

The BBC has a treat for British viewers on its Christmas schedule

Calling all Britons! Get ready for a delightful Yuletide treat. The BBC has announced that it will be screening the iconic fantasy series The Box of Delights as part of its Christmas schedule. The Box of Delights is based on the 1935 children's book by English writer and poet John Masefield. It is returning 40 years after its original showing on BBC One between November 21st and December 24th, 1984. . Using a then-innovative combination of action and animation, The Box of Delights was very expensive to make. At the time, it had the biggest budget for a children's series. the BBC had ever produced.

The Box of Delights is a classic tale of good versus evil involving schoolboy Kay Harker, in which the youngster has to protect a magical box from an evil wizard. Devin Stanfield plays Kay Harker, while Patrick Troughton portrays Cole Hawlings, the keeper of the box. In the winter of 1934, Kay has a chance encounter with Hawlings, a bearded Punch-and-Judy puppeteer, while riding a train home from boarding school to celebrate Christmas. The old man entrusts Kay with a magic box and gives him a cryptic warning. He tells the boy, "The wolves are running." and Kay's odyssey begins. In the course of his journey, Kay meets several characters drawn English folklore, history and pagan mythology, including King Arthur, Father Christmas, unicorns, Herne the Hunter, Roman soldiers and medieval monks.

Below is a photo of Devin Stanfield and Patrick Troughton in The Box of Delights.

The Box of Delights is a fan favourite and has earned several awards, including three BAFTAs. In addition to the seasonal repeat, all six episodes of the mini-series are being released on Blu-Ray, accompanied by a documentary film entitled Time and Tide - Making the Box of Delights.

END NOTES

* Devin Stanfield was born on February 20, 1971 in Eastbourne, Esast Sussex, England, UK. He was 13 years old when he starred in The Box of Delights (1984) and Chocky (1984). Stanfield had a short-lived career as a child star. Now 53 years old, he still works in the entertainment industry, although behind the camera as a production manager and technical director. Devin is the grandson of British actor/writer Leslie Sands (1921-2001). He looks back with pride at the BBC classic.

Devin Stanfield

* English actor Patrick Troughton, who played Cole Hawlings in The Box of Delights, passed away on March 28, 1987. He was 67 at the time of his passing. Troughton is also known for his role as the second Doctor Who in the long-running British science fiction TV series of the same name. He played the doctor from 1966 to 1969, reprising the role from 1972-1973, and in 1983 and 1985.

Patrick Troughton

* The Box of Delights will air on BBC Four on Saturday, December 7, 2024. Director Renny Rye will introduce the first episode.

- Joanne

Monday, November 25, 2024

One of the best network series on American television

Okay, TV fans. It is with great delight that I will reveal my favourite series currently on American television. It is (drum role, please!) Matlock, staring Academy Award winner, Kathy Bates. Bates is simply an outstanding actress, with myriad accomplishments on stage and screen. She received an Oscar for her performance as Annie Wilkes, an obsessed fan, in the 1990 thriller Misery, directed by Rob Reiner and based on a 1987 novel by Stephen King. In addition, Kathy has had Oscar-nominated roles in Primary Colors (1998), About Schmidt (2002) and Richard Jewell (2019).

But wait! That's not all! Kathy Bates has earned two Primetime Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, as well as nominations for a Tony Award and two BAFTA Awards. Although she has made her mark on the silver screen, Kathy is also known for her substantial work on television. She received her first Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actress for an appearance in the nineth season of Two and a Half Men (2012). She won her second Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or Movie for her portrayal of Delphine LaLaurie in American Horror Story: Coven (2013).

The 76-year-old Bates is now the star of Matlock, which does not have any direct connections to the Andy Griffith legal drama series of the same name, which ran for nine seasons on NBC and then ABC. Griffith's Matlock premiered in on NBC in 1985. Andy played the role of Ben Matlock, a folksy criminal defence attorney. In 1992, NBC cancelled Matlock in favour of "younger" programming. The network offered Griffith a "graceful exit six two-hour Matlock movies over the next three years." Instead, Andy negotiated with ABC to move the production of Matlock from Hollywood to Wilmington, North Carolina, a short plane ride from his home. ABC picked up the show for three more seasons, until 1995.

This new Matlock is not Andy Griffith's Matlock. It has some similarities but it is not exactly a reboot of the Griffith series, It has a much different premise. In the new series, Kathy Bates plays an attorney with an astute legal mind, but she is also a woman on a mission. A decade after her daughter Ellie's death from opioid addiction, Bates' Madeleine Kingston seeks answers as to how and why her daughter died.. She seeks justice. So, she goes undercover, so to speak, using the name Madeline "Matty" Matlock as her alias because Matlock was her late daughter Ellie's favourite show.

"I know there was some talk of creating this character as a granddaughter of the original Matlock - someone in her 30s or 40s, - so I'm incredibly fortunate that at 76, for for heaven's sake, I've been able to play this role," Bates told the Los Angeles Times in a recent phone call. Her role has been earning her rave reviews. According to Cristina Escobar on Roger Ebert.com, Bates' Matlock knows what people see when they look at her - if they look at her at all. She's invisible to many, underestimated by nearly everyone, deemed a harmless (and kind) old woman. She is some of those things, but she's also incredibly savvy, able to use those expectations to her advantage everywhere she goes. She can also laugh at herself, making the show eminently watchable."

Matty is a clever septuagenarian who claims she is reentering the legal world in order to support her young grandson after her late husband gambled away their savings. The truth is that Matty is actually quite wealthy, her husband of 49 years, Edwin Kingston (Sam Anderson), s very much alive, and her teen grandson Alfie (Aaron D. Harris) is architect of her master plan.

Matty manages to get hired by a prestigious New York law firm, Jacobson Moore. She simply marches into the boardroom and refuses to take no for an answer. Little do they know that she has an agenda. She is determined to prove that her new colleagues hid documents that could have taken opioids off the market, and prevented her daughter's death.

Olympia Lawrence, played by Skye P Marshall, a junior partner at Jackson Moore, becomes Matty's boss. Also on Olympia's team are junior associates Sarah (Leah Lewis) and Billy (David Del Rio). Olympia has a lot on her plate. Aside from her work commitment, she's a divorced mother of two, still technically working alongside her ex, Julian (Jason Ritter), and Julian's father, Senior (Beau Bridges).

Skye P. Marshall

Jason Ritter

Beau Bridges

The new Matlock is formatted in a-case-of-the-week style, a trait it shares with the original Matlock. Olympia's team defends a range of crimes, from murder to sexual harassment to wrongful imprisonment. Each case is resolved before the closing credits appear on the screen. The only issue that remains unresolved is the mystery surrounding the death of Matty's daughter.

Kathy Bates' return to network television was completely unexpected. In early 2023, when she was sent the pilot script for Matlock, she was actually planning to retire. It's a good thing that she didn't. By the way, fans, CBS has already renewed Matlock for a second season. It renewed the show after just two episodes.

SOURCES: Los Angeles Times, "'Matlock' star Kathy Bates is having way too much fun to retire," by Max Gao, November 22, 2024; TVLine (tvline.com), "CBS' Matlock Just Revealed Its Wild Not-a- Reboot Twist - Grade the Premiere, Get Scoop on What's Next," by Matt Webb Mitovich, September 22, 2024; Roger Ebert.com, "'Matlock' Remakes a Classic with Humor and Moral Force," by Cristoma Escobar, September 20, 2024; Collider (collider.com), "'Matlock' Review: Kathy Bates Commands the Screen in CBS's Surprisingly Solid Legal Drama," by Carly Lane, September 20, 2024; Wikipedia

- Joanne

Saturday, November 16, 2024

Y&R Report (November 16, 2024): The Latest on The Young and the Restless

Hi fans,

I'm really pleased that the Newman ranch has been rebuilt and I really enjoyed the episode in which Victor and Nikki reminisced about their relationship during their years at the original ranch. The flashbacks were great. Y&R obviously needs to go back to its roots.

Did you enjoy the wedding of Abby and Devon at the ranch? There is always a great deal of intrigue at at Y&R weddings, especially during the November ratings sweep. This wedding was certainly no exception. It was elegant, but underneath the surface, there was a great deal of tension between many of the guests. Billy. for example, was extremely distressed by Jill's decision to sell Abbott-Chancellor to the Black Knight himself, Victor Newman. I don't really grasp Jill's reasoning for the decision, or why she treated her son that way. Billy Boy is far from perfect, but Jill should have given him more of a chance to clean up his act before selling out to Victor. She made a deal with the devil.

Just outside the Newman ranch, Phyllis' car crashed and she was almost consumed by fire. Nick and Chance came to her rescue, but she is unconscious, and in the hospital. She is going to be incapacitated for a while and unable to oppose Sharon. Maybe she'll wake up with amnesia and won't remember anything.

The relationship between Summer and Chance has become rocky. He didn't even attend the wedding with her. What does that tell you?

I should have figured out that Jack and Diane were really faking their breakup. That's why they argued publicly in front of Victor Newman and others. It's great to see the wool pulled over Victor's eyes once in a while, or is he only pretending to make an alliance with Diane? Does he really trust her? An online spoiler states that "Victor gets the upper hand with Diane."

Kyle continues to be arrogant and entitled, even after Victor threw him under the bus by having Diane publicly fire him. He refuses to show Jack and Diane the respect they deserve, even though they have shown how concerned they are for him. Is he too dense to see that Victory just used him.

So, Sharon has confessed everything to Nick. He can't seem to make up his mind about what to do, or how to deal with her confession. Will he support her on the basis that she was unwell and that she had hallucinations?

CAST NEWS

Melissa Ordway (Abby) claims that she has been taken off contract

Right now, she is front and centre on Y&R, but Melissa Ordway has claimed on Instagram that the soap "has decided to take me off contract." Melissa has played Abby Newman since 2013 and her character has just become a bride for the third time. She clarified her status on the show. She wrote, "I'm still playing Abby I'm just not guaranteed episodes and can work on other projects. I'm still part of the YR faniily and pray they continue to let Abby be part of all the things in Genoa City. Trust me, I hope I'm still there all the time. I think they're just focusing on other characters and storylines. But I worked today and lots of fun stuff coming up."

Two super villains unexpectedly return to Genoa City

Colleen Zenk (Jordan)

Ray Wise (Ian Ward)

In a surprising move, Y&R has brought back two of the most evil characters that have ever appeared on the show - Aunt Jordan (Colleen) and Ian Ward (Ray Wise). It hasn't been made clear yet how the devious pair are connected. They are certainly involved in some kind of revenge plot.

The return of the two super villains spells big trouble for Victor and Nikki Newman. Aunt Jordan might even cause Nikki to turn to the bottle again. Claire won't be too thrilled about seeing her wicked aunt again. All I can say is that Aunt Jordan is a better escape artist than Houdini. No prison can seem to hold her. She constantly escapes police security. She has more than nine lives, more than a cat.

According to an online spoiler, Jordan and Ian Ward will target Sharon. Hmmm! Why are they involved with her? I can't think of any association, other than the fact that Mariah grew up under the thumb of Ian Ward.

Ray Wise, who plays cult leader con artist Ian Ward, won a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Guest Performer for his work on Y&R in 2015. He last appeared on the show in 2016. His Ian Ward character has been a formidable enemy to Victor. Now that Ward has teamed up with Aunt Jordan, the Newman family will face attacks from them, as well as from Jack Abbott and Diane and possibly Kyle. Will Victor Newman be able to withstand all the assaults coming his way? Has he made too many enemies?

Here's what a delighted Rau Wise told Deadline about his return to Y&R: "It's wonderful to be back on The Young and the Restless. It feels like home. I had a great time when I last appeared on the show and am having an even better time now with the talented Colleen Zenk. I could not have asked for a better partner in crime and it's so good to see both Eric Beaeden and Melody Thomas Scott again. I look forward to the mischievous Ian Ward causing more havoc in Genoa City. Stay tuned, it's going to be a whole lot of fun."

Colleen Zenk's character, Aunt Jordan, hasn't appeared on screen since June of 2024, after she was held captive by Victor Newman and sent to prison.

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

I have mixed feelings about the return of Aunt Jordan and Ian Ward. Combined with everything else that is happening on the show, I am not sure we need any more tension. On the other hand, it may turn out to be fun. Coleen Zenk and Ray Wise are two veteran actors who can perform admirably. What to you think, fans? Respond to the poll below and let me know.

NOTE TO READERS

I really need your feedback. If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them You do not have to use your real name. I really need your input. I really need to hear your opinion. I want to know if you agree or disagree with me.

My email address: jmadden16@yahoo.ca

That's all for now. Please don't forget that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday, November 30, 2024.

Take care. A Happy Thanksgiving to my American readers. Enjoy the rest of the November sweeps.

Joanne

Saturday, November 2, 2024

Y&R Report (November 2, 2024): The Latest on The Young and the Restless

Hi fans,

I don't usually agree with Phyllis' actions, but in the case of her son Daniel's arrest, I am on her side. Chance is going to end up with egg oh his face for making a false arrest. His policing skills leave much to be desired. Phyllis was absolutely right when she accused him of being biased. He is biased toward Sharon. He dated her for a time, and he told Phyllis that she couldn't possibly have murdered Heather. Yet, there is all kinds of evidence that Sharon has been behaving erratically. A police detective just can't dismiss someone as a suspect without a thorough investigation. Chance investigated Daniel thoroughly, and came to the wrong conclusion. He didn't even really consider that Daniel might have been framed.

Thankfully, Cameron and his bloody shirt seem to have gone away, at least for the time being, but Sharon is still having visions of Nick telling her to do the right thing, and of a dead Heather scaring her. The ghoulish Heather appeared on the Halloween episode, of course.

It's not surprising that Daniel was arrested. Otherwise, Sharon would have been handcuffed sooner - end of story. Now it appears that Daniel will go on trial, with Christine (A.K.A. The Cricketmeister). It's quite amusing to see Phyllis and Cricket working together since they are bitter enemies. They have found common ground.

I think that Phyllis will hound Sharon relentlessly, but with Nick's support, Sharon will get a restraining order. In the meantime, Daniel will go to trial. The restraining order won't shop Phyllis, though. She's a mother lion when it comes to protecting her children. She will eventually prove Sharon's guilt. It's just too early in the storyline for Sharon to get arrested.

Jack and Diane's breakup appears contrived. It doesn't seem realistic that they would turn on each other so suddenly and viciously. I don't buy it, but it was done for storyline purposes. Some would say Diane never really changed, but I think she did. I think she was happy with Jack. She worked so hard to win his trust. Why would she just throw it all way with cruel accusations? Why would Jack and Diane attack each publicly, especially in the presence of Victor Newman? Yes, Diane is ambitious, but remember that it was Kyle himself who encouraged her to become co-CEO of Jabot. He was willing to turn down the position in favour of his mother. Kyle will soon be thrown under the bus by Victor, and replaced by his own mother. Then the prodigal son will return home to Jabot and his father, Jack. Kyle and Jack will go to war with Victor and Diane. It won't be pretty.

Meanwhile, Claire is setting herself up for a big fall. She is too starry-eyed over Kyle to realize that she is out of her depth with The Heartbreak Kid. Summer will also block Claire's road to romance. She is upset with Chance and she is getting along better with Kyle. She isn't a big fan of Claire, and she will interfere in her relationship with ex. She may even want Kyle back again. I don't know why after the way he treated her and Lola.

Amy Lewis is back in town and Nate has learned that he has a half-brother named Damian somewhere out there. Amy told Nate that she is dying with lung cancer and that she wants to locate her son before she passes away. Nate is not certain whether she is telling the truth about having cancer. She my be lying as a ploy to get Nate to help her locate Damian. By the way, longtime Y&R viewers remember that Amy worked at Paul Williams' detective agency. She must know something about private investigation. Obviously, Damian will be located, and he will stir things up. He could be big trouble for Nate and other members of the Winters family. Maybe he'll show up at the wedding of Devon and Abby. Maybe he'll be attracted to Audra, and Nate will have to compete with his brother for her affections.

Abby and Devon are getting married in the middle of the November ratings sweep. It should be exciting. Ashley will be returning from Paris for the wedding. We will see how she reacts to Traci's romance with Dr. Alan. Jill also plans to attend the wedding. So, we will see her in person, not on a video chat. The venue remains a mystery. It's a gift from Victor Newman, and he's being very coy about it. I wonder what he has in mind. With Victor, one never knows. However, I am sure he will have a reason for his choice. It will likely fit in with one of his schemes. If I were Devon, I certainly wouldn't want Victor to be my father-in-law.

Online spoilers reveal that Victor has secretly rebuilt the old Newman ranch that Sharon set on fire. It's going to be a big surprise for Nikki. Who will live in the current Newman ranch? My guess is that Victoria and her children will move in.

I am pleased that Edward Scott (Melody Thomas Scott's real-life husband) has returned to Y&R as a senior producer of the show. He has spent the last 14 years with The Bold and the Beautiful, Y&R's sister show. A seven-time Daytime Emmy winner, Ed began his association with William and Lee Phillip Bell, Y&R's creators, back in 1976, when he joined the show as an associate producer. Ed knows the history of The Young and the Restless and his presence will help return the show to its roots

Ed and Melody

CAST NEWS

Brytni Sarpy to return as Dr. Elena Dawson

Om October 1, Brytni Sarpy shared the news that she will be returning to her role as Dr. Elena Dawson. on The Young and the Restless. Brytni began her daytime career on General Hospital as Valerie Spencer in 2015. While on General Hospital, she was a castmate of Hayley Erin, who plays Claire on Y&R.

In 2019, Brytni began her run as Dr. Elena Dawson. Elena went on to have some big romances with Devon and his cousin, Nate. She cheated on both with the other, leading to a physical confrontation between the two men. Nate's hand was injured and he was forced to give up his medical career as a surgeon.

Elena didn't have many screen appearances since Nate cheated on her with Victoria Newman. In March of 2023, Dr. Elena was planning a media podcast. Audra Charles suggested that she interview JT Helllstrom about how his brain tumour had impacted his life. At the time, there was speculation that Thad Luckinbill would be returning to the show as JT, at least temporarily. However, the stroyline was just dropped without explanation. Brytni's character has not been seen since.

There are no doctors in the Y&R cast right now, and Nate Hastings has joined the corporate world. The show could use a character who is a doctor. Also, Nate's half-brother, Damian, will likely show up in Genoa City soon. Elena might fit in to that storyline.

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Allison Lanier (Summer)

Michael Mealor (Kyle)

Haley Erin (Claire)

Could there be another love triangle on the horizon in Genoa City? Now that Summer seems estranged from boyfriend Chance over his arrest of her brother, Daniel, will she try to win back her ex-husband, Kyle? Is Claire in for some competition? What do you think, fans? Respond to the poll below and let me know.

NOTE TO READERS

My email address: jmadden16@yahoo.ca

That's all for now. Please remember that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday, November 16, 2024.

Take care,

Joanne

Monday, October 28, 2024

TV Banter Quiz #32

GENERAL TV QUIZ

Are you ready for the latest TV Banter television quiz? Are you ready to test your knowledge TV history? Get ready and good luck! There are ten questions.

1. In which U.S. city did The Bob Newhart Show take place?

Cast of The Bob Newhart Show

A. New York City

B. St. Louis

C. Los Angeles

D. Chicago

E. San Francisco

2. On All in the Family, what was Mike Stivic's ethnic background?

A. Polish

B. Irish

C. Russian

D, Turkish

E. Ukrainian

3. Tom Sellick, star of Magnum, P.I., liked to wear the baseball cap of his favourite team during the show. What is his favourite team?

A. New York Yankees

B Detroit Tigers

C. Los Angeles Dodgers

D. Chicago Cubs

E. Boston Red Sox

4. On an episode of The Dick Van Dyke Show entitled "Coast to Coast Big Mouth" (Season 5, Episode 1, Air Date: September 14, 1965)), Laura Petrie (Mary Tyler Moore) reveals a secret about her husband Rob's boss, Alan Brady (Carl Reiner), on television. What was the secret?

A. Alan Brady was an ex-convict.

B. Alan Brady was a terrible boss and treated his employees unfairly.

C. Alan Brady wore a toupee.

D. Alan Brady was an imposter.

E. None of the above

5. Carol Burnett starred in a 1962 episode of Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone. What kind of character did she play>

A. A cleaning lady

B. A school teacher

C. A psychologist

D. A mother of twins

E. A socially awkward city woman

6. On The Jeffersons, what was the name of George and Louise's eccentric English neighbour?

A. Mr. Crawford

B. Mr. Bentley

C. Mr. Worthington

D. Mr. Spencer

E. Mr. Wellington

7. On a 1967 episode of The Andy Griffith Show, Aunt Bee (Frances Bavier) wins a trip. Where does she go?

Frances Bavier (Aunr Bee)

A. Hawaii

B. Rome

C. Florida

D. Mexico

E. Paris

8, On Family, what was Willie Lawrence's nickname for his kid sister Buddy, played by Kristy McNichol?

A. Peaches

B. Little Sis

C. Sugar

D. Kiddo

E. Baby Sis

9. On Happy Days, what was the name of the high school that Richie Cunningham and his friends attended?

A. Milwaukee High School

B. Roosevelt High

C. Washington High

D. Wilson High

E, Jefferson High

10. On Maude, what was the name of Maude Findlay's grandson?

A. Mark

B. David

C. Philip

D. Stephen

E. Glen

ANSWERS

1. D Chicago

On The Bob Newhart Show, Bob played Bob Hartley, a psychologist who lived in Chicago with his wife, Emily (Suzanne Pleshette).

2. A Polish

Archie Bunker's son-law, Mike "Meathead" Stivic, played by Rob Reiner, was of Polish background.

3. B Detroit Tigers

Tom Selleck is a Detroit Tigers fan. He was bon in Detroit, Michigan on January 29, 1945.

4. C toupee

Carl Reiner as Alan Brady with toupees

While a contestant of a TV quiz show, Laura Petrie (Mary Tyler Moore) let's it slip that Alan Brady, the star of comedy/variety show star, wears a toupee. This has repercussions because Bardy is very vain and Laura's husband Rob (Dick Van Dyke) is the head writer for his show.

5. E socially awkward city woman

Carol Burnett on Twilight Zone

In an episode of The Twilight Zone entitled "Cavender is Coming" (Season 3, Episode 36, Air Date: May 25, 1962), Carol Burnett plays awkward Agnes Grep, a young, unconventional city woman. An inept apprentice guardian angel, Harmon Cavender, is given a final chance to earn his wings by helping her.

6. B. Mr. Bentley

Below is a photo of Paul Benedict, who played Harry Bentley, the Jeffersons' next-door neighbour on The Jeffersons. Isabel Sanford (Louise Jefferson) is on his right, and Sherman Hemsley (George Jefferson is on his left.

Although Harry Bentley was British, Paul Benedict was actually an American actor, born in Silver City, New Mexico and raised in Massachusetts. Benedict died on December 1, 2008. He was 70 years old at the time of his passing at Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts.

7. D Mexico

In an episode of The Andy Griffith Show entitled "A Trip to Mexico" (Season 8, Episode 3, Air Date: September 25, 1967), Aunt brings her friends Clars and Myrtle along when she wins a trip to Mesico in a contest. When they return, they aren't even speaking to each other.

8, A Peaches

Kristy McNichol and Gary Frank at the Emmys.

Willie Lawrence, portrayed by Gary Frank, often referred to his younger sister Buddy by the pet name of "Peaches."

9. E Jefferson High

Ron Howard as Richie Cunningham

Happy Days was set in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Richie Cunningham (Ron Howard) and his friends attended Jefferson High School.

10 C Philip

Brian Morrison (Philip)

Kraig Metzinger as Philip

Philip Traynor was the son of Maude's daughter, Carol Traynor (Adrienne Barbeau), who was divorced. Carol and Philip, lived with Maude and her fourth husband, Walter Findlay. In seasons 1 to 5, Philip was played by Brian Morrison. He was replaced by Kraig Metzinger in the sixth season. It is unclear as to why Morrison left the show.

- Compiled by Joanne Madden

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