Community

CHICAGO – The full 2013-2014 Fall TV schedules for the five broadcast networks will be announced next week. Will NBC give “Hannibal” more time to find an audience? Will The CW close the book on “The Carrie Diaries”? Can CBS viewers plan to visit “Vegas” again?

CHICAGO – As the networks finalize their schedules, there are more periods than question marks. CBS has already renewed most of their line-up while some programs on other networks have nothing to worry about. At the same time, there are some axes that everyone knows are going to fall. But what about the shows in the middle?

CHICAGO – Rarely has a low-rated show survived as much off-screen drama as NBC’s “Community,” returning tonight to the network bruised, battered, and slightly damaged but still funnier and smarter than most of the alternatives. Where do we begin?

CHICAGO – The third season of “Community” was more inconsistent than the brilliant second but it still featured some of the smartest writing and best performances on network TV. I think the writers lost sight of some of their characters in pursuit of concept over substance at times but has there been a modern show that was more unpredictable than this one? You never know where they’re going to go, what they’re going to reference, or how far they’re going to take their concepts.

CHICAGO – Last year represented a notable leap forward for the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences as they finally embraced a few critical darlings over popular favorites, finding room for major nominations for shows like “Louie,” “Justified,” “Game of Thrones,” and “Parks and Recreation.”

CHICAGO – So you’re an Academy voter who has put off filling out your ballot for the 2011-12 season. I understand. It’s been a ridiculously tough year for me to pick and choose my dream nominees for the major categories and my votes don’t even count. Maybe you want some help? We’re all about charity here. As someone who’s seen more TV in the last year than most people do in their lives, let me guide the way.

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John Oliver at The Vic Theater, ‘Just for Laughs Chicago,’ June 15th, 2012

CHICAGO – The British wit John Oliver has stormed the shores of the former colonies with his dry antics, as featured correspondent on “The Daily Show” and his recurring role on “Community.” His stand-up was featured at the TBS “Just for Laughs Chicago” comedy festival, playing before a packed house at The Vic Theater.

CHICAGO – NBC revealed their Fall schedule today and there were multiple surprises including comedies moving to Tuesday and Friday nights (we were wondering where all of the sitcoms would go) and a Fall cycle of the hit singing show “The Voice.”

CHICAGO – Good news, TV fans. NBC has made official several of their on-the-bubble shows, renewing “Community,” “30 Rock,” and “Parenthood.” The good news is a bit tempered though as “30 Rock” has been cleared for only 13 episodes and most are assuming its a final season.

CHICAGO – It’s that crazy time of year when network executives have to make the tough decisions. What do they cancel? What do they give another chance? What do they move? These are no small choices. Not only do they impact your favorite shows, but they can also determine the overall success of a network and lead to millions of dollars made or lost.