After 10 years in radio, Tony Carbone just wasn’t happy. Something was missing in the 32-year-old’s life. Carbone decided to leave his job and all the financial security that comes with the communications industry to follow his dream about becoming a chef. After quitting his job, he enrolled into culinary school.

That’s when opportunity came knocking.

Four days after entering culinary school, Carbone found out about auditions for a new food show called "MasterChef" with Gordon Ramsey and auditioned for the reality show. Carbone was chosen out of thousands to be a contestant on the new show. The only catch was he had to drop out of culinary school. Carbone decided to take the risk and enter the show.

"School would always be there," Carbone said. "I live life without being complacent."

Carbone has always had a passion for cooking. "It’s like therapy for me," he said.

Another thing Carbone loved about cooking was the sense of family that came along with it. Coming from an Italian family, food was always there in celebration.

"We always had food," Carbone said. "It brought the family together."

While on the show, Carbone had to pretend he was still at culinary school.

"People would always ask my wife ‘How is Tony doing?’" said Carbone. "We had an arsenal of lies ready for them." One of the lies was that Carbone was in Montreal learning about French cuisine when really he was in Los Angeles filming the show.

Carbone auditioned for the show in Newton Highlands. "It was a nerve racking experience," he said.

The first day Carbone had to bring a dish prepared and had to "sell himself" on camera. Following the first initial audition was about two months worth of auditioning. After a few painful days of waiting, "I would keep checking my email to find out anything," he said. Eventually he got the good news.

Once on the show, Carbone thrived in the new environment. "It was awesome. It was totally new to me."

One thing that Carbone enjoyed the most was the spontaneity of it all. "You never knew what was coming next," he said. "Once you are on set it hits you like a ton of bricks. It’s like ‘wow we are really here.’"

Another perk to being on the show was being able to meet Gordon Ramsey. Ramsey’s on air persona is a lot like how he is in real life. "He is very intense," said Carbone. "He just loves food so much that he doesn’t want anyone messing with it."

Since the show Carbone has opened up his own chef business called “The Urban Epicurean” which will be serving residents in the Greater Boston area. Living in Boston has affected Carbone’s cooking for the better. "They have such great fresh sea food and great restaurants here," he said.

Carbone grew up in Long Island and has also lived in Chicago. He says that Boston has some of the best restaurants the country has to offer.

"When my wife and I go out to eat we have to make sure we know where we are going," he said. "Or we spend the whole night walking around looking at all the great options."

Opening his own cooking business has been a rewarding experience for Carbone, who also hopes to open up his own restaurant in the city with "good wine and beer and of course good food."

Justin’s other women. Frank’s ex girlfriend. Kasey’s tattoo. Craig M’s ridiculously coiffed hair.

ABC’s "The Bachelorette" Season 6 was full of memorable moments and memorable catch phrases; "I will guard and protect your heart" just might be the next great pick-up line…or not.

Jonathan Novack, affectionately known on the show as The Weatherman, hasn’t had enough of the reality TV drama. He’s cast on ABC’s new show "Bachelor Pad," in which former "Bachelor" and "Bachelorette" contestants we loved and loved to hate come together to fight for love and money. Novack talks to "Blast" about the season’s scandals,  what he really thought about Ali, and if he regrets being a tattletale.

BLAST: Why did you decide to go on "The Bachelorette"?

JONATHAN NOVACK: A good friend of mine nominated me over a year ago.  I wasn’t sure if it’d be a good move in terms of my career [as a weatherman], but it was an experience that could possibly lead to me meeting my wife.  And the things we got to do, the dates we went on…I feel fortunate to have had that opportunity.

BLAST: If you could describe your experience on “The Bachelorette” as a weather-related event, what would it be?

JN: It was the perfect storm of drama, dating, alcohol…and tanning.

BLAST: Did you actually like Ali? Or did you feel that you had to like her? Do you think that some guys just want to stay to win the game, or do you think that everyone there actually liked her enough to marry her by the end of it?

JN: I really did like her.  I think most of the guys did.  I think some of the emotions were heightened for a lot of us because of the nature of the show and the awesome dates. I’m sure there were a few guys who weren’t into her and still stuck around.  But overall everyone seemed pretty sincere.  If I was already having feelings after a few weeks, then I’m sure the guys who were there for the long haul had strong emotions brewing by the end.

BLAST: When you were kicked off, how did you feel? Were you really that invested in forming a relationship with Ali?

JN: I was definitely hurt.  The experience is so intense, you really can’t anticipate how attached you get and how quickly it happens. The dates are bigger than life, there’s a competition factor with the other guys and watching them go out with her, and Ali was simply a really great girl.  So yeah, it was tough to walk away.

BLAST: Do you think you can really find love on reality TV?

JN: I do.  Think about it like this: Out of all the "Bachelor" and "Bachelorette" shows,  there’s been success, meaning marriage, 10 percent of the time.  If someone told you that you had a 10 percent chance of finding your husband or wife in the next three months, that’d be pretty damn good considering we spend years looking.  So yeah, I think in one strange sense, it’s actually more likely.

BLAST: What did you think about Justin and Frank’s “other women in their lives” situations? Did you have any clue that they were as scummy as they were?

JN: Justin is a huge scumbag.  I had no idea that he was the way he was.  I’m usually good about those things, so it was a surprise for me to find out — I just missed it.  I actually gave him the benefit of the doubt the whole time I was there.  But he was clearly there for his [wrestling] career.

As for Frank, it’s not as clear-cut.  I mean, he seemed like a very emotional and sincere guy.  I thought it was strange that he just immediately jumped back into a relationship with his ex, who he had broken up with however many months ago.  I would have thought they’d have to work some stuff out first.  But at the same time, he wasn’t cheating on two girls like Justin was.  And it’s possible that he was just emotionally confused.  I got to know him pretty well and I’d like to give him the benefit of the doubt on this.

BLAST: Was Craig M as much of a d-bag in person as he seemed on TV? What was with that hair?

JN: He was a pretty big jerk, but his hair was very polite.  If we could’ve kept just his hair around, things would have been okay.  Craig M actually started trouble with other people in the house, like Justin and Jesse B.  He tried to bait Jesse B into a fist fight for two hours one night, and producers had to keep pulling him away.  That’s when I said someone needs to speak up about this guy.  Would you want him dating your daughter?

BLAST: Do you regret being somewhat of a “tattletale” on the show?

JN: I don’t see it as being a tattletale.  I see it as respecting Ali’s wishes that the guys have her back.  There were a few other guys in the house that I didn’t like, but I didn’t go say anything to Ali because I don’t just talk trash about people like that.  I saw Craig M as a legitimate problem in the house, and potentially one for Ali.  I was just looking out for her.

BLAST: Why did you decide to go on another reality show?

JN: I needed a good tan.  And $250,000!

BLAST: You aren’t a weatherman anymore. Why not? What are your upcoming plans? Are you still living in Texas?

JN: I finished up my contract at my old TV station in Houston in May.  I’ve been doing some stand up comedy, and I’m opening up at the Laff Spot in Houston on August 12-15.  I’m moving to Los Angeles at the end of August, and I’ll be doing auditions out there for TV.  I’m kind of like a free agent right now.
BLAST: If you were asked to be the next Bachelor, would you? Would you go on your own reality show like “The Weatherman’s Flood of Love” or something if you were asked to?

JN: Damn, you stole my idea; I’ll have to think of a new title.  If they asked me to be the next Bachelor I’d probably say yes.  Are there any petitions out there?

Apparently getting attention for infidelity isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

Rachel Uchitel is complaining that she’s having a hard time meeting men, thanks to her very public relationship with married golf pro, Tiger Woods.  Her solution, according to a TMZ Exclusive, is to have a reality TV show find a single (yes single this time), man for her.

She was recently spotted in a Vegas dance studio prepping for a possible spot on the next season of "Dancing With the Stars".  But this new opportunity means we might be seeing her do more than dance in the coming months.

Sources say while in LA recently, she and her producing crew (including Scott Jeffress of “Jersey Shore” fame) were pitching networks including E!, Lifetime, Oxygen and VH1 to pick up “Romancing Rachel”, a reality TV show a la “The Bachelorette”, to find her a suitable mate.  E! and Lifetime have politely declined while Oxygen and VH1 still seem to be considering it.

Will Rachel be able to find true love on national TV? Or will "Romancing Rachel" end up with the likes of "Flavor of Love"? Thanks to her Tiger-ized fame, we may just get to find out.

Well since music videos aren’t the priority anymore, it’s all about original — largely reality-based — programming lately.

VH1, which BTW stood for for Video Hits 1 from 1985-1994, I’m just saying, announced the following massive programming lineup:

“You’re Cut Off!” – Premieres Monday, June 14 at 9 p.m.

What happens when you take nine spoiled young women and completely cut them off from shopping, mani-pedis and bottle service? This new series answers that when these women are removed from all cash and conveniences, forced to live as normal people do and encouraged to become productive members of society. In this “spoiled rotten rehab,” the ladies must complete daily chores and learn hard lessons from life coach Laura Baron such as taking responsibility and understanding there is more to life than material wealth. VH1′s “You’re Cut Off” is produced By Fly on the Wall Productions. Executive producers are Allison Grodner, Rich Meehan, Amy Palmer and Rick de Oliveira.

“Money Hungry” – Summer 2010

In the spirit of VH1′s successful “Celebrity Fit Club” series, 10 overweight teams of two will put their money where their mouth is on VH1′s new original series “Money Hungry.” Just like millions of Americans, these contestants are struggling to drop unwanted pounds. But with $10,000 of their own money at risk and a $100,000 grand prize up for grabs, this intense weight loss competition may be the incentive they need. The pair that sheds the most weight will walk away with the $100,000 pot. Created and executive produced by Cris Abrego and Ellen Rakieten. Ben Samek and Rabih Gholam also executive produce for the series.

“My Big Friggin Wedding” (working title)

“My Big Friggin Wedding” is a new VH1 docu-series that follows the high drama of five couples as they plan and execute the wildest weddings anyone has ever seen. Their budgets may not be the biggest, but their mouths sure are. And just because they’re in love doesn’t mean they see eye-to-eye on how it should all go down. Whether it’s smoke machines and lasers or a bride that wants to be lowered from the ceiling, remember, “classy” is in the eye of the beholder. The series will be produced by 495 Productions and executive produced by Sally Ann Salsano.

“Wedding Wars” (working title)

“Wedding Wars” is a new competition-elimination series where eager engaged couples vie against one another for a dream wedding. In every episode these passionate personalities will face wedding-themed challenges. The series will be produced by 495 Productions and executive produced by Sally Ann Salsano.

“Diary of a Hip Hop Girlfriend”

This docu-soap series follows four women who share a common bond: they understand the joys and pains of being in love with a big name rapper. Sure, there’s the glamorous lifestyle – full of bling, Bentleys and mansions. But behind closed doors, they struggle against shifting loyalties, baby-mama drama and the huge shadow cast by their larger-than-life partner. This 8-part series charts the women as they navigate their relationships with the men they love while they try to maintain a sense of self in the eye of the hip hop hurricane. Executive produced by Mona Scott of Monamie Entertainment and Toby Barraud and Stefan Springman of NFG-TV.

Series Pick-Up Announcements

“Fantasia for Real 2″ – Q4 2010

Season 2 of “Fantasia For Real” will stay with recording artist, Broadway star and single mother Fantasia as she balances her complicated personal life with her desire to connect with her fans through music. As Fantasia works with her record label to promote her long awaited new album, she will continue trying to instill values of independence and integrity into her life and be a positive role model for her daughter Zion, older brother Teeny, no-nonsense Aunt Bunny and the rest of her family. The series is executive produced by Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato and Tom Campbell for World of Wonder and co-executive produced by Jeremy Simmons.

Eva Longoria Development Pilot: “Beso: Waiting on Fame”

One of Eva Longoria Parker’s biggest passions is her Hollywood restaurant BESO. Since it is Hollywood, a lot of celebrities eat there, and a lot of aspiring celebrities work there. Beso is filled with big personalities – and that mix brings a lot of drama. This series is about the real stories of people waiting ON the famous…while waiting to BECOME famous. Created and executive produced by Cris Abrego and Eva Longoria. Ben Samek and Rabih Gholam also executive produce for the series.

“Estranged with Dr. Drew” Development Pilot With Dr. Drew

In each self-contained episode, Dr. Drew Pinsky will tackle one compelling relationship in ruins. With his guidance, the two participants discover that they must finally confront their broken relationship face-to-face in an intense and focused process that takes place over the course of day. In the end, they must decide if they want to make amends or remain estranged for good. The pilot will be produced by Picture This Television with executive producers Bryan Scott, Lisa Tucker and Leslie Goodman and Dr. Drew Productions with executive producers Dr. Drew Pinsky and Howard Lapides.

New Music Programming Announcements

“VH1 and the USO Present Divas Rock The Troops” – December 2010

VH1 is taking its most legendary music event on the road to pay homage to the many men and women who serve in the armed forces. In true VH1 Divas’ fashion, a special group of female music superstars will sing their hearts out at military bases around the world. In another VH1 Divas first, the Divas will step out of their comfort zones and become soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines for a day and learn what goes into being a true American hero. “VH1 and the USO Present Divas Rock the Troops” will be an event unlike anything seen before.

“VH1 Hip Hop Honors: The Dirty South” – Monday, June 7

VH1′s hugely successful annual tribute to the force that is hip hop music returns in June for a seventh time with a tribute to “The Dirty South” to honor those who infused the southern story into hip hop’s global message. Jermaine Dupri, J Prince of Rap-A-Lot Records, Luther “Luke” Campbell AND 2Live Crew, Master P, and Organized Noize are all being recognized through performances in collaboration with some of today’s hottest talent. Last year’s edition was the highest-rated “VH1 Hip Hop Honors” yet. “VH1 Hip Hop Honors: The Dirty South” will tape on June 3rd at NYC’s Hammerstein Ballroom and will air on VH1 on Monday, June 7 at 9:00 PM ET/PT.

“Behind The Music” – new episodes begin airing in June

VH1′s Emmy-nominated and critically acclaimed series “Behind The Music” returns after a successful re-launch last summer with a new group of stellar artists including Golden Globe-nominated Courtney Love, Academy Award-winner Jennifer Hudson, multiple Grammy Award winner Usher, Grammy winner and actress Eve, and Golden Globe-nominated actress and performer Jennifer Lopez and DMX. VH1 has re-imagined “Behind The Music” to now focus on some of the top current artists of today who have had a major impact or contribution to the music scene from rock to hip-hop to pop.

“An Evening with Christina Aguilera” – Sunday, June 13

VH1 offers unparalleled backstage access to five-time Grammy® award winning recording artist Christina Aguilera beginning that night with an all-new “Behind the Music: Christina Aguilera” followed by the premiere of “VH1 Storytellers: Christina Aguilera.” In the latest installment of VH1′s successful “Behind the Music” series, fans will get a behind-the-scenes look into the life of one of pop music’s biggest and most private stars. Christina will share personal stories, footage and photos, while her family, friends and colleagues open up about Christina’s childhood, early career and road to superstardom. Then, following in true “VH1 Storytellers” fashion, Christina will treat some of her closest fans to a uniquely thrilling performance of some of her greatest hits as well as new songs from her latest album, “Bionic.” Fans at the taping will also receive the rare opportunity to ask Christina questions about her music and hear stories on the inspiration behind her songs.

VH1′s “Rock Doc” Franchise

“50′s Roots”

50 Cent has always been framed – and defined – by the cold grim reality of coming up in South Jamaica Queens. But 50′s not merely a product of the street and his incredible, death-defying story of survival and success does not just begin with him. Like all African-Americans, there’s a greater journey…across thousands of miles…back through several family generations to slavery. Here, the legendary rapper, actor and business mogul will make an unprecedented trek to the Deep South in search of his family’s slave lineage. He’ll re-unite with living family members, and connect the dots on his ancestral heritage. “50′s Roots” is a real-time journey into past lives and a shared history…of horror and hope, pain and perseverance. “50′s Roots” is produced by Roadside Entertainment.

“RUSH: Beyond the Lighted Stage” – Premieres on VH1/VH1 Classic, June 26

This world premiere gives a comprehensive exploration of the history of legendary Canadian power trio Rush – from their early days growing up in Toronto, through each of their landmark albums, to the present day. With a career spanning four decades, RUSH (Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neal Peart) is one of the most successful bands in the history of popular music, but despite their remarkable career achievements, they have never been critics’ darlings. Directors Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn interview the band’s admirers and contemporaries, including Gene Simmons, Billy Corgan, Sebastian Bach, Jack Black, and others and also deliver rare backstage and concert footage.

“Let’s Spend the Night Together: Confessions of Rock’s Greatest Groupies” – Premieres Q4, 2010

Told through the eyes of rock and roll historian and super groupie Pamela Des Barres, author of the famous 1987 tell-all I’m With The Band, this 90-minute documentary offers memories of her sexual exploits and longtime escapades with such notorious rockers as Mick Jagger, Jim Morrison and Jimmy Page. This work is not only a tribute to the golden age of groupies, but also the golden age of rock ‘n roll. Pamela’s new book Let’s Spend the Night Together: Confessions of Rock’s Greatest Groupies provides the framework for this new documentary which follows Pamela as she visits many of these legendary women who re-emerge to share their intimate stories and the unexpected human side of their relationships with rock gods. Produced by Creature Films.

“Friday Night Alright” Concert Series – Fridays, 11 p.m.

VH1 continues to deliver new A-list concert performances from around the globe in its hit concert series “Friday Night Alright.” The network kicked off 2010 with this series, showcasing concert specials form acts like Madonna, U2, and Taylor Swift. New shows coming up include Usher, Lady Gaga, Lady Antebellum and Stone Temple Pilots.

“100 Greatest Artists Of All Time” – Fall 2010

For decades, there have been countless arguments about who deserves the title of the greatest music artist ever. Now VH1′s “100 Greatest Artists of All Time” is out to settle the debate once and for all. This 5-hour special will rank the biggest acts in music ranging from all genres including rock, pop, rap, and metal. Over ten years ago, VH1 asked music experts to pick the 100 greatest artists in the channel’s first countdown special. New music, artists and trends have emerged since this historical list. VH1 asked an academy of musicians and music journalists again to see which music pioneers still matter and which new artists rate amongst the greatest of this era.

Previously Announced 2010 New Series and Projects

• Executive Producer Queen Latifah’s movie project in development with Flavor Unit Entertainment.
• “Dad Camp” – A docu-reality series that tries to transform 6 irresponsible soon-to-be dads into respectable fathers. Premieres May 31.
• “Don’t Forget The Lyrics” – Musical game show hosted by music artist and former “Extra!” co-host Mark McGrath. Premieres in September.
• “Football Wives” – In the spirit of VH1′s hit series “Basketball Wives,” the series will focus on the women behind the men who play the nation’s most popular sport.
• “Ocho Cinco”(working title) – Cincinnati Bengals star wide receiver and “Dancing With The Stars” contestant Chad Ocho Cinco (formerly Chad Johnson) pursues happiness off the field. Premieres July 11.
• “The OCD Project” – From 3 Ball Productions, this new series centers on patients impacted by obsessive compulsive disorder living together as they strive to overcome their affliction.
• “Scream Queens 2″ – Ten more aspiring actresses will get the chance to win a breakthrough role in “Saw 3D,” the next film in Lionsgate’s iconic “Saw” horror franchise. Premieres August 9.
• “The T.O. Show” (season 2) – After his one season with the Bills, Terrell Owens is once again faced with finding another team in the off-season while having the chance to reconnect with his kids, as well as his ex, Kari. Debuts July 11.
• “Do Something Awards” – VH1 has partnered with DoSomething.org to televise live the 2010 Do Something Awards on July 19 at 9 p.m. from Los Angeles. The five nominees for the Do Something Award will be rewarded with a community grant with the grand prize winner receiving $100,000.

We already know all about their love lives, their sex lives, their modeling lives and even their business lives, but we suppose there’s still more to tell.

Kim Kardashian, the reality star, etc. etc. etc. and her sisters are writing a tell-all book, Kim told an Australian newspaper recently.

The 29-year-old Kim, who’s made headlines for her sex tape with Ray J and her recent break-up with NFL star Reggie Bush and has reportedly been spotted with footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, is planning to put pen to paper to detail her life along with her sisters, Khloe and Kourtney.

‘It’s going to [have] lots of fun tips and stories and everything about relationships; it’s a little bit more of an in-depth look into our lives, even though people think that they’ve probably seen everything,” Kim told the newspaper. "We’re just being super-candid and sharing lots of pictures and fun stuff."

We can’t wait to see what they’re like when they’re “candid.”

Bristol Palin, daughter of former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, will make her acting debut playing herself on ABC Family’s “The Secret Life of the American Teenager,” the network announced yesterday, in spite of her mother’s disapproval.

“We Palins don’t like reality,” Gov. Palin said, according to the Huffington Post. But it’s okay, she said, “just so long as it doesn’t become a regular thing.”

Bristol will play a friend to the show’s protagonist, Amy, at a music program for teen mothers. The show focuses heavily on how Amy’s family and friends deal with her own unexpected pregnancy.

“We’re thrilled to have (Bristol) join us,” said Secret Life executive producer Brenda Hampton in a statement. “And I think she will bring additional attention to the issues facing teen parents that we’ve been exploring for a couple seasons now.” The episode will air this summer.

Bristol Palin, who became pregnant in high school, was thrown in the spotlight with her young baby when Sarah Palin was named as John McCain’s running mate in the 2008 presidential election. She was briefly engaged to the father of the baby, Levi Johnston, an unemployed high school dropout who recently posed in "Playgirl." She has gone to court to get full custody of their 13-month-old son, Tripp, and to ask for increased child support.

Last month Bristol appeared on “The Oprah Show” to expound on her pledge to be abstinent until she gets married. Last spring, Bristol told “Good Morning America” she wanted to use her fame to spread her abstinence message. “I am thrilled to be on this show and to be part of a program that educates teens and young adults about the consequences of teen pregnancy,” she said in a statement.

Not much today. Bravo has the premiere of “The Real Housewives of Orange County” at 10 p.m., and Investigation Discovery starts “Cold Blood,” also at 10.

ABC announced that “The Bachelor: On Wings of Love” will premiere January 4 at 8 p.m. This is the 14th edition of the reality show, and it will feature commercial airline pilot, Jake Pavelka, from Dallas, who was in the most recent “Bachelorette” only to fail.

FOX has a cool new CIA drama in the works from Chernin Entertainment, Variety reported. It’s untitled but it will be about a unit of the CIA that does “remote viewing,” finding out information using paranormal skills. No word on the cast.

In other FOX news, Colin Hanks will star in “Jack and Dan” opposite Bradley Whitford. Hanks will play Jack, a detective teamed up with a drunken maverick partner. This one will premiere in early 2010.

Tonight is the season premiere of “Ugly Betty” on ABC at 8 and “lobstermen” at 10 on Discovery Channel. and we also have the season finale of “Psych” on USA at 10 p.m. “Storm Chasers” premieres Sunday at 10 p.m. on Discovery

News Corp. will shut down Fox Reality Channel by March 31, citing low ratings for the four-year old network.

Could this finally be the end of “Jon & Kate Plus 8?” TLC will halt the show in mid-November, and has said it will not launch “Kate Plus 8″ on November 2 on the heels of Jon Gosselin’s court order preventing the pair’s children from being filmed. We’re sure that there will be more to this story.

Showtime will order a one-hour pilot of an American import of the British drama “Shameless,” with William H. Macy. The show is about a working-class family of eight children with an alcoholic father — no we’re not still talking about “Jon & Kate Plus 8.”

The CW has six — count’em — six new shows in development. “Spy School for Girls” is about women spies being trained by the CIA. “Plymouth Rock” is a space-themed melodrama about people on a space ship traveling to another planet, and the fun that ensues there. “Confessions of a Backup dancer,” will be written and executive produced by Ilene Chaiken (“The L Word”). “The March Sisters” is a modern-day Little Woman. And finally, there’s an untitled crime drama coming out of Robert De Niro’s Tribeca Entertainment.

ABC gave “The Gates” a 13-episode order for the season.

Finally, the Yankees and the Angels begin game one of the American League Championship Series at 7:30 on FOX. We couldn’t care less.

The premiere season has just about wound down at this point, but we have a few cable shows on tap tonight.

Animal Planet premieres “Weird, True and Freaky” at 9 p.m., with “Lost Tapes” to follow at 10. MTV has some reality shows starting tonight; most notably is the reality-drama “The Hills” at 10 with “The City” to follow at 10:30.

Actor Omar Miller is joining CSI: Miami as a regular starting with the October 5 episode. Miller will play Walter Simmons, an art chief from Louisiana who joins the crime fighting CSI team.

CBS had the best night on Friday, according to Nielsen, with premieres of “Ghost Whisperer,” “Medium” and “Numb3rs” scoring big on the ranking charts. We predict that will continue tonight as CBS has new episodes of three of its biggest shows, “NCIS,” the new “NCIS: Los Angeles,” and “The Good Wife.”

We wonder how long “NCIS: Los Angeles” will continue to air on Tuesdays. The two NCIS shows are hits, and we have to assume one will get moved to bolster a slower weekday.

“Dancing with the Stars” is on ABC tonight and “So You Think You Can Dance” is on FOX.

Finally, no it’s not the 90s, but new episodes of the new “90210,” and “Melrose Place” are on The CW tonight.

By the way: Because of a reporting error, we said “NCIS: Los Angeles” aired on Mondays. It airs on Tuesdays.

NBC's Trauma premieres tonight at 10

Not a lot of new stuff on the tube tonight, but there’s some news to discuss below.

On network TV, FOX premieres “Lie to Me’ at 9 p.m. tonight, while NBC debuts its “Trauma” at the same time. MTV premieres another reality show, “Disaster Date” at 6 p.m., and truTV has the premiere of “Operation Repo” at 10. Tonight is also the season finale of A&E’s “Hoarders,” which is also on at 10.

The Ashton Kutcher-produced series “The Beautiful Life” staring Mischa Barton appears to be an abject failure. The CW pulled the show from its fall schedule after just two episodes and ordered production on the show halted after miserable ratings.

Also getting axed is A&E’s “The Cleaner.” The Benjamin Bratt drama will not get renewed for a third season.

ABC announced that the new alien-infused drama “V” will debut November 3, with a four-episode run, followed by a major cliffhanger, followed by nine more episodes next spring.

In other ABC-related news, the always busy Jerry Bruckheimer is working on a pilot for a new series called “Hopscotch,” which Variety says promises to be a “high-concept police procedural” drama. Variety reported several networks were vying for the opportunity to land the new series, which is chock-full of “hit potential.” Chris Levinson will write the series, and Warner will producer.

The CW approved a new, untitled reality series about New York socialite Tinsley Mortimer, because they know you just can’t get enough of watching rich people spend their money. The series is approved for at least eight episodes.

NBC has an interesting-sounding project in the works. In the tentatively titled “Slacker Sons,” Variety reports that two brothers get rich by developing their own energy drink. They buy the family home and end up helping out their divorced dad who gets laid off from his corporate wageslave job.

Finally today, Vincent D’Onofrio is leaving Law & Order: Criminal Intent after eight seasons playing the quirky detective Robert Goren.

Another big weekend of television-watching is coming up.

Tonight CBS premieres “Ghost Whisperer” at 8, “Medium” at 9 and “Numb3rs” at 10. “Smallville” starts its new season at 8 p.m. on The CW.

FOX has the series premiere of “Brothers” at 8 p.m. and the much-anticipated season 2 premiere of Joss Whedon’s “Dollhouse” at 9.

“Law and order” is still around, with another season starting up at 8 p.m. tonight on NBC.

On Saturday, NBC premiere’s “Saturday Night Live” at 11:30, and CBS has “48 Hours Mystery” at 10 p.m.

And then it really gets out of hand on Sunday, with premieres including:

• ABC: “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” at 7p.m., “Desperate Housewives” at 9, and “Brothers & Sisters at 10.”
• CBS: “60 Minutes” at 7, “The Amazing Race” at 8 and “Cold Case” at 10.
• FOX: “The Simpsons” at 8, “The Cleveland Show at 8:30, “Family Guy” at 9 and “American Dad” at 9:30.
• Showtime: “Dexter” at 9 and “Californication” at 10.

Here’s a list of most of the winners at Sunday’s 61st Annual Primetime Emmy Awards:

• Actor, Comedy Series: Alec Baldwin, “30 Rock,” NBC.
• Actress, Comedy Series: Toni Collette, “United States of Tara,” Showtime.
• Supporting Actor, Comedy Series: Jon Cryer, “Two and a Half Men,” CBS.
• Supporting Actress, Comedy Series: Kristin Chenoweth, “Pushing Daisies,” ABC.
• Made-for-TV Movie: “Grey Gardens,” HBO.
• Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Brendan Gleeson, “Into the Storm,” HBO.
• Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Jessica Lange, “Grey Gardens,” HBO.
• Supporting Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Ken Howard, “Grey Gardens,” HBO.
• Supporting Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Shohreh Aghdashloo, “House of Saddam,” HBO.
• Directing for a Comedy Series: “The Office: Stress Relief,” Jeff Blitz, NBC.
• Directing for a Miniseries, Movie, or Dramatic Special: “Little Dorrit: Part 1,” Dearbhla Walsh, PBS.
• Reality-Competition Program: “The Amazing Race,” CBS.
• Writing for a Comedy Series: “30 Rock: Reunion,” Matt Hubbard, NBC.
• Writing for a Miniseries, Movie, or Dramatic Special: “Little Dorrit,” Andrew Davies, PBS.
• Host, Reality or Reality-Competition Program: Jeff Probst, “Survivor,” CBS.
• Comedy or variety show: “The Daily Show.”
• Reality-Competition Program: “The Amazing Race,” CBS.
• Writing for a Comedy Series: “30 Rock: Reunion,” Matt Hubbard, NBC.
• Writing for a Drama Series: “Mad Men: Meditations in an Emergency,” Kater Gordon and Matthew Weiner, AMC.
• Writing for a comedy or variety show: “The Daily Show.”
• Original Music and Lyrics: “81st Annual Academy Awards: Song Title: Hugh Jackman Opening Number,” ABC.
• Writing for a Miniseries, Movie, or Dramatic Special: “Little Dorrit,” Andrew Davies, PBS.
• Supporting Actor, Drama Series: Michael Emerson, “Lost,” ABC.
• Supporting Actress, Drama Series: Cherry Jones, “24,” FOX.
• Actress, Drama Series: Glenn Close, “Damages,” FX.
• Actor, Drama Series: Bryan Cranston, “Breaking Bad,” AMC
• Comedy Series: “30 Rock,” NBC.
• Drama Series: “Mad Men,” AMC.

Analysis coming later.

With beginnings and endings, this weekend is shaping up to be a big one for television.

We say goodbye to “King of the Hill” with a one-hour finale at 8 p.m. Sunday after 13 seasons of American’s favorite propane salesman and his family. Fox decided not to renew the series, making room for the “Family Guy” spin-off “The Cleveland Show.” ABC, previously rumored to be picking up “King of the Hill” decided not to grab it.

In the reality world, CBS premieres “There Goes the Neighborhood” at 10 p.m. Sunday. HGTV’s “Design Star” also stars up again at 10 on Sunday, so get the DVR ready.

For the original reality TV, FOX has new seasons of “Cops” at 8p.m. and America’s Most Wanted at 9 p.m. on Saturday.

And if you want some actual reality don’t forget that NBC has Sunday night “Football in America” every week for the next 17 glorious weeks!

And then there were five. Russell has become the third member of the Big Brother 11 jury.

But he didn’t leave without causing one last confrontation.

During the nomination ceremony Jeff put up Natalie and Kevin for eviction. However he promised his former enemies safety and vowed to back door Russell. During the veto competition it came down to a nail biter between Michelle and Jeff. Jeff ended up taking his second competition in a row, winning the power of veto. He made another bold mood in the game by using his power to save Kevin. He named his former clique-mate Russell as a replacement nominee.

As expected, the mixed martial arts fighter didn’t leave quietly. Trying to upset Jeff and show his true colors to the other houseguests, he verbally attacked Jordan. But his last ditch effort to stay in the house was not enough. The remaining houseguests had had enough of his explosive temper and voted him out 3-0.

The head of household power was once again up for grabs. Jordan, Kevin, Natalie, and Michelle began the competition Thursday night that was a race against time to fill a giant bowl with water. The first houseguest to fill their bowl wins. America will find out on Sunday who has won. They will also find out what another mystery twist to the game has to do with this weeks HOH power. Host, Julie Chen says it could effect all of the houseguests this week. Watch Sunday night at 8 p.m. to find out.

From a cafƒ© in Arizona, accompanied by his “wingmen” Danny and Anoop (fellow former “American Idol” contestants), Matt Giraud took some time out of his day off from the “Idol” tour to chat with Blast Magazine about his “Idol” experience and upcoming new gig as mentor and host of the Yobi network’s new show, “Make the Cut.”

Prior to his recent Idol fame, Giraud spent his time as a dueling piano player, a gig in which he never truly felt comfortable. “They thought I was too good to be playing there; they could always tell I wanted to be a true artist. At the time, I just wanted a job.”

Born and raised in Michigan, Giraud was a performer from birth. It wasn’t until last season’s “American Idol” that he got his “big break” unless you count a 2nd place win in the West Michigan “Idol” contest.

In Hollywood Giraud placed fifth in the competition, after being the first ever recipient of the “judges save” and given a second chance at proving his talent. That he did, performing The Fray’s “You Found me”, Stevie Wonder’s “Part Time Lover” and eventually being eliminated after a passionate rendition of Richard Rodger’s “My Funny Valentine.”

The judges save was a turning point for Matt. Although he didn’t win the competition, it boosted his confidence and forced the world to take a second look at this dueling piano player from Michigan. It was ” “¦a huge honor” reflects Matt, “People behind the scenes, the judges, they saw something in me. I didn’t feel like I could convey that to the audience in a minute and a half.”

Now in full swing, The “American Idol” Tour has, so far, been getting rave reviews – in large part because of Giraud’s performances. “People on tour are surprised at how good I am. I’m making a bigger impact now. I’m calling it my “ËœRedemption Tour.’”

When the tour wraps, Giraud will travel back to Michigan where he’ll take a back seat as performer. Yobi TV, the “online reality contest network” will air “Make The Cut” in September ’09. Matt describes it as the “”ËœAmerican Idol’ of the internet.” Twelve finalists will have the chance to rise to the top and then be mentored by Giraud in MI recording studios as the elimination process continues. One winner will win a chance to cut a record.

What will Giraud’s role be? “It’s cool to be on the opposite end of the spectrum” he says. As a mentor he hopes to ” “¦bring a little hope, bring out their talent and passion. I’m not just going to blast people like Simon.” Sounds like he’ll be channeling Paula a bit.

While future plans have yet to be set in stone, Matt Giraud knows one thing for sure: he is beyond thankful for everything. He is currently writing songs, booking gigs, and wants “to do a ton of different things.” For someone whose influences include Louis Armstrong and Dru Hill, it sounds like success will certainly continue for this dynamic performer.

But first, it’s time for Matt Giraud to finish his scone and get back to the “Idol” tour”¦

“Make the Cut” airs on Yobi TV in September 2009.

Some of the houseguests on big brother this week went a little bananas. Jesse nominated Michelle and Jordon for eviction. Off-beat Casey was one of the players chosen for the power of veto. During the competition, he took a risk that backfired on him and left him wearing a banana suit for an entire week. Michelle won the competition, taking herself off the nomination block. Some of the houseguests thought the plan was to put up Ronnie and evict him, but Jesse shocked some of the houseguests by nominating Casey instead.

Throughout the week, the bitter banana tried rallying for votes to stay in the game and go after the athletes. In the end Jordon once again avoided eviction and with a vote of 7 to 1 Casey was voted out, but not before speaking his mind first. He warned the other houseguests that Ronnie and Jesse will betray them if they stay in the game, leaving the remaining players with some food for thought.

As they say in the big brother house, expect the unexpected. Two twists were revealed Thursday night that could change the game. Julie Chen told the houseguests that they will no longer be playing the game in cliques, but rather as individuals. She also revealed to the viewers that America will be able to vote for one of the houseguests to receive a special power. The chosen player will be able to overthrow the head of household’s nominations one week. They’ll be able to replace the nominees with anyone except the head of household and the power of veto holder. These changes to the game make this weeks head of household competition more important than ever. But, we’ll have to wait to find out who wins. This weeks competition is based on endurance and could last for hours, possibly days. Watch Sunday to find out who lasts the longest and takes the title of head of household.

It’s been another tense week inside the Big Brother house. The theme of this week appeared to be “revenge of the nerd” as Ronnie became head of household and used his power to nominate athlete Jeff and popular Laura. But it quickly became muscle over brains as the houseguests began to catch on that Ronnie was the “rat”, trying to turn both sides against each other. The self-proclaimed gamer seemed to have overplayed his strategy, making himself a target for the other players.

Throughout the week Russell bullied him into seclusion, torturing him every chance he got. According to host Julie Chen, Ronnie spent more time in the head of household room than any other head of household in Big Brother history. He barricaded himself inside, only leaving when called to the diary room.

To save themselves from eviction, the nominated houseguests had to “count” on the power of veto to save them. The chosen players for this weeks power of veto competition had to count coins to win and come closest to a certain number. Jeff won, beating out Russell in the final round. Jordan was put up as a replacement nominee, putting clique-mates against each other. In the end, bikini model Laura was the second person to be voted off Big Brother 11.

With many broken deals and promises, the houseguests knew this week’s head of household competition was more important than ever. And when it came down to Jesse and Jeff, the big brother veteran took the title of head of household for the second time this season. Watch next week to see if Ronnie is able to manipulate his way out of eviction.

With the recent dramatic pirate news, Spike TV is partnering with 44 Blue Productions (“The True Story of Black Hawk Down”) to make a reality television series called “Pirate Hunters: USN.”

The series promises “an up-close and behind-the-scenes look at the US Navy operation to end this deadly threat of piracy in the Gulf of Aden.”

“We are thrilled to be front and center with the Navy on such an important mission,” said Sharon Levy, senior vice president of original series for Spike. “The access we have will really give our viewers the kind of heart-stopping action they have come to expect from Spike programming.”

This cross between “Deadliest Catch” and “Cops” is going to go through the pilot process first as camera crews board two American warships: USS San Antonio and USS Boxer.

“Piracy off the coast of Africa is a real and deadly threat,” said Rasha Drachkovitch, president and founder of 44 Blue Productions. “With ‘Pirate Hunters: USN,’ our goal is to capture that drama for the TV audience in order to highlight the heroic work undertaken by the US Navy every day in this fight against terrorism.”

There is no word on when the series might air.