RAVE

"Buffy" slays the competition

Over at UPN, Enterprise was supposed to be the network's big gun this fall. However, it appears the Star Trek prequel will have to share the spotlight with an ass-kickin' blond named Buffy.

Sure, Buffy the Vampire Slayer has a loyal fan base--and decent ratings were expected, despite the show's migration from the WB--but on Tuesday night, as the show debuted, fans made their presence known. According to Nielsen Media Research, the Sarah Michelle Gellar drama raked in 7.6 million viewers, the second-best showing for Buffy in its six-year history.

While Enterprise debuted to much stronger numbers--averaging 12.5 million viewers--Buffy's success proved that moving to a new network (yes, even UPN) can rejuvenate a show.... Emeril, there's hope for you yet.

RANT

"Survivor" producer casts away vanity

One of the joys of watching Survivor: The Australian Outback was the eye candy. Jerri in that blue bikini. Amber's midriff. Elisabeth doing anything.

Those days are over.

Last week, CBS released the identities of the 16 castaways on Survivor: Africa, and you could almost hear Hugh Hefner yawn. Yes, producer Mark Burnett is looking for a more well-rounded cast this time around, which is admirable, but when the cast literally is, um, well-rounded, that nice voyeuristic aspect of the show wanes a bit.

RAVE

Rivers gals up the creek

Just two words to E! Entertainment's execs, on their decision to yank Joan and Melissa Rivers' commentary from E!'s upcoming Emmys red-carpet coverage. Thank you.

RANT

Who wants to be... an idiot?

At FOX, only one thing was capable of overshadowing the absurdity of airing their cheeseball special Who Wants to Be a Princess? during the post-attack TV-news barrage: their decision to re-broadcast the monstrosity. Hmmm. To watch Nightline or a procession of Darva Congers wanna-bes.... Tough call.

RANT

"Enthusiasm" gets the star treatment

Most often, when a show relies upon celebrity guest stars to carry the series, it spells certain death. Could this be the case for ex-Seinfeld producer Larry David's HBO series Curb Your Enthusiasm? The comedy's first season was peppered with guests like Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Ted Danson, but this season, celebs absolutely populate the show. Jason Alexander has appeared twice thus far--after just two episodes--and comedian/actor Richard Lewis has already shown up on the series four times. Is Larry David losing confidence in his own comedic wit?

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