With low ratings and fewer people tuned in, summer is a time of year when Network execs fill the schedules with some less-than-stellar programming. Get ready for some hot nights curled up with b.s. reality programs and knock-offs galore. But of course, through all of the shit, there are sure to be some highlights... right?
ABC
"The Mole"
June 2, 10:00
"The Mole" hasn't aired since 2004, when it was known as "Celebrity Mole," but the reality competition in which players work to uncover the one player who is sabotaging their efforts to win money, returns this summer with an all-new cast of regular people and a new host (goodbye, Anderson Cooper). The show was good four years ago, but it isn't likely people will tune in after such a long break.
"Wipeout"
June 24, 8:00
ABC continues its all-reality summer with "Wipeout," the self-described "world's largest extreme obstacle course designed to provide the most spills, face plants and wipeouts ever seen on television." Think Japan's "Most Extreme Elimination Challenge," only this time in English.
"High School Musical: Get in the Picture"
July 20, 8:00
High School Musical mania reaches its peak this summer when this nationwide casting session gives wannabe stars the opportunity to be a part of the "High School Musical" family, though what exactly they will win is still under wraps. And, really, the chances of anyone over the age 16 watching this show are pretty low.
CBS
"Million Dollar Password"
June 1, 8:00
Regis Philbin makes his return to gameshows with this updated take on the classic gameshow "Password." Once again, regular people will be paired with B-list celebs (like Neil Patrick Harris, Rachael Ray and, of course, Betty White) with the chance of winning up to $1 million. CBS has yet to make its mark with primetime gameshows lately, and the consistently popular "Password" could be its chance.
"Swingtown"
June 5, 10:00
This buzz-worthy new scripted drama from the director of "Big Love" goes back in time to follow the lives of couples living in a Chicago suburb during the sexual revolution of the swingin' '70s - not quite the most family-friendly of choices. Expect lots of spouse-swapping and embarrassing fashion choices.
Photo Credit: CBS
"Big Brother"
July 13, 8:00
Reality fans rejoice: CBS' summer staple is back for its 10th season. One can only guess what kind of tricks Julie Chen and company have up their sleeve this time, but it's bound to involve plenty of drama and/or nudity.
NBC
"Last Comic Standing"
May 22, 9:30
"Last Comic Standing" returns for its sixth season this summer and continues its quest to find the next big name in stand-up comedy. This time, the search for comics expands with a cast of celebrity talent scouts (including Fred Willard and Kathy Najimy) on hand to help find the funniest people from around the nation.
"America's Got Talent"
June 17, 9:00
David Hasselhoff and friends are back with NBC's perennial talent show that places the spotlight on bizarre and awe-inspiring talents that otherwise wouldn't have a chance at exposure. The show's first three seasons performed well, so it's reasonable to expect that audiences will return this summer.
"2008 Summer Olympics"
August 8, 8:00
NBC and its affiliated networks play host to the Olympics once again this year in what is sure to be a ratings-dominating broadcast as usual, though the controversy over China's hosting of the international competition could possibly work against the broadcast and lower ratings. But either way, the Olympics are bound to draw more viewers than "America's Got Talent."
