January 10, 2010 – Really, how did that happen…

Weren't we just trying to figure out what to call the last decade and here we are in the teens.  On top of that, it’s already the second week in January...   oh well, time marches on.  On the positive side, after a holiday period filled with Charlie Brown specials and repeats, many of our favorite shows are back this week with new episodes.

I won’t bore you reviewing the whole schedule, but I do want to call your attention to some highlights:

Tonight Chuck premiers with a 2 hour episode before returning tomorrow to its regular Monday timeslot.  When we last left our hero he had just downloaded the Intersect 2.0 and was on the verge of cancellation.  When we catch up to him tonight, he’ll be dealing with the realities of the new intersect while the show’s producers can be confident that the mess that is NBC need them more than ever.   (While I’ve never been a big Leno fan, I wouldn’t wish the mess NBC is putting him through on anyone.  OK, maybe on some people, but not on him.)

Also tonight, the Simpsons celebrate their 20^th anniversary.  Not that I really care but some of you might.

For the past few years Monday nights have been why I have two DVRs.  They’re both back in action tomorrow with most shows having new episodes.  Of note is that Fringe is on with two new episodes this week, one on Monday and then back to its regular time on Thursday. 

For those who enjoyed Leverage last year, its back Wednesday night on TNT – not Shakespeare but a fun caper show with likeable characters – plus they only work for good guys.  Who can’t use a little Robyn Hood now and then!

Next Sunday (1/17) brings us the return of 24 – Jacks new worst day ever starts with 2 hours Sunday and 2 hours on Monday.  He’s in NY this time for a change of scenery.  I thought last year was the best in several seasons and so I'm looking forward to the new day.  

Also next Sunday the Golden Glove awards.  One of the silliest award shows around (the only people who vote are foreign critics working in the US, many of them not even full time writers).  This year Ricky Gervais is hosting, so if you are not a 24 fan, give it a look (I’ll be zipping through it the next morning looking for the funny parts).

Also next week a new show on the CW network – Life Unexpected – Juno meets Gilmore Girls.  Its getting good advance press and looks worth sampling .

Moving out a bit, a date many of you already have memorized:  February 2 brings the beginning of the end:  The last season of LOST starts with a one hour clip show followed by a two hour episode.  In this final season we’ll get answers to our questions but I’m sure it won’t be a smooth ride.

And finally, for those of you waiting for Glee, V, Flash Forward and/or Gossip Girl, I’m sorry to report that you have to be patient.  They won’t be back until March or later (April in Glee’s case).

Keep watching and let me know in the comments what you’re looking forward to and what you think once they air.