ABC's May Sweeps

Thursday, April 29, 2010

ABC ANNOUNCES MAY SWEEPS PROGRAMMING, INCLUDING THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SERIES FINALE OF "LOST" AND THE SEASON PREMIERE OF "THE BACHELORETTE"

The ABC Television Network announces highlights of its upcoming May sweeps programming, with finales of some of television's biggest hits, including the groundbreaking series finale of "Lost" and the season premiere of "The Bachelorette."

Editors please note: What follows is a chronological listing of programming highlights (all times Eastern); this is not a complete list of all programs airing during the May sweep. As airdates are subject to change, please monitor ABC's daily press bundle or www.abcmedianet.com.

FLASHFORWARD -- "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" - Janis continues to thwart her fellow FBI agents as an inside mole to a mysterious employer; Olivia is given some disturbing news by Gabriel (James Callis, Gaius Baltar on "Battlestar Galactica"), who has been subjected to numerous flashforwards; and Aaron's life is in danger in Afghanistan when he tries to blend in with the locals as he continues his search for his daughter, on "FlashForward," THURSDAY, APRIL 29 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET).

GREY'S ANATOMY -- "Hook, Line and Sinner" - Sloan returns to Mark's apartment, just as she's going into labor, and Teddy, Mark and the still-fighting Callie and Arizona are there to help with the birth and to get Mark through his grandson's pending adoption. Meanwhile Teddy sees Derek's invitation to illustrious cardiothoracic surgeon Tom Evans' as a threat to her future employment at the hospital, and the team work on a crab boat captain who has been stabbed with a giant shark hook, on "Grey's Anatomy," THURSDAY, APRIL 29 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET).

PRIVATE PRACTICE -- "War" - After Violet files for joint custody of Lucas, an embittered Pete voraciously fights back by hiring a tough attorney for the trial, forcing their fellow friends and co-workers to choose sides and have their personal lives dragged onto the stand and into the public eye, on "Private Practice," THURSDAY, APRIL 29 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET). Guest stars include Caterina Scorsone as Amelia Shepherd and Frances Fisher as Ruby Broome.

WIFE SWAP -- "Schroeder/Wardle" - An artistic Goth family that encourages the kids to talk to the dead swaps with a family of hockey fanatics that doesn't hesitate to call kids losers when they play badly, on "Wife Swap," FRIDAY, APRIL 30 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). Each week two very contradictory families from across the country participate in a two-week-long challenge: The wives exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover daily life in another woman's shoes. This astonishing experiment repeatedly changes lives and redefines families.

WIFE SWAP -- "Adams/Hess" - A reptile and animal-obsessed family with no rules or fashion sense swap with a strict family who can't stand animals and say that "fashion is more important than air," on "Wife Swap," FRIDAY, APRIL 30 (9:00-10:00 p.m., ET). Each week two very contradictory families from across the country participate in a two-week-long challenge: The wives exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover daily life in another woman's shoes. This astonishing experiment repeatedly changes lives and redefines families.

AMERICA'S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEOS - "Episode 2022" -- This season's three $100,000 prize winners compete for the Grand Prize, on "America's Funniest Home Videos," SUNDAY, MAY 2 (7:00-8:00 p.m., ET). The final three videos: "Laser Chasers," a Great Dane and a toddler are equally obsessed with a laser pointer; "Boogie Baby," a baby rocks out with a musical doll; and "The Great Escape," Junior the Chihuahua leads an escape from the utility room. The episode features footage shot at the Walt Disney World(r) Resort in Florida, at Epcot(r) and the Magic Kingdom(r) Park. Tom Bergeron is host.

EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION -- "Carr family" - "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" travels to rural Mineola, TX, to meet Katrina and Mike Carr and their four adopted children (who are from Kazakhstan and were abandoned at birth), an inspiring family who strive every day to overcome severe physical challenges while living in a cramped and dangerous home. This is a Texas-sized opportunity to give back to a family who have become models of spirit and resilience. Comedian, actor, producer and author Bill Engvall is the "Get on the Bus" volunteer, while Bethany Hamilton, a surfer famous for losing her arm in a shark attack, spends time with the Carrs on their vacation, on "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," SUNDAY, MAY 2 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET).

DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES -- "A Little Night Music" - Angie comes face to face with her ex, Patrick Logan (John Barrowman), after years on the run, SUNDAY, MAY 2 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET) on "Desperate Housewives." Meanwhile, Gaby and Susan plan an elaborate scheme against their husbands, Lynette sees a darker side of Eddie, and Bree meets a woman who knows Sam all too well.

BROTHERS & SISTERS - "Love All" - The Walkers seem to all be going through an adjustment period: Cooper acts out against Sarah as Luc becomes a member of the family, Justin has trouble finding the same passion for medicine he had while serving in Iraq, and Kevin struggles with his newfound unemployed status, on "Brothers & Sisters," SUNDAY, MAY 2 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

ROMANTICALLY CHALLENGED -- "Perry and Rebecca's High School Reunion" - When it's time for Rebecca and Perry to go back to their high school reunion, Rebecca is ready to confront Jesse, the guy who publicly humiliated her by standing her up at the senior prom. But Perry knows the real reason why she was stood up and tells a preposterous lie to keep Rebecca from discovering the truth. Meanwhile, avid hockey fan Shawn is devastated when he finds out that the local cable company won't be carrying the championship games. When he learns further that Lisa's friend, Vanessa, has the games on her cable station, he has to hide his real motive for romancing Vanessa from both women, on "Romantically Challenged," MONDAY, MAY 3 (9:32-10:00 p.m., ET).

CASTLE -- "Food to Die For" -- A high profile chef is found frozen in the kitchen of a hot New York restaurant. Complications ensue when Castle and the restaurant owner, an old high school girlfriend of Beckett's, share an attraction. Meanwhile, Beckett's relationship with Detective Demming (Michael Trucco) continues to grow, on "Castle," MONDAY, MAY 3 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET). Rocco Dispirito, a fan of the dead chef and a fan of Castle's books, guest stars in the episode.

LOST -- "The Candidate " -- Jack must decide whether or not to trust Locke after he is asked to follow through on a difficult task, on "Lost," TUESDAY, MAY 4 (9:00-10:02 p.m., ET)

V - "Hearts and Minds" -- Erica, Ryan, Father Jack and Hobbes learn that Anna has sent a V shuttle with a deadly V tracker team to find them, and must figure out how to stop the shuttle from landing. Meanwhile, Anna gives Tyler his invitation to the Live Aboard Program, and Chad confronts Father Jack on what he knows about The Fifth Column, on "V," TUESDAY, MAY 4 (10:02-11:00 p.m., ET).

THE MIDDLE -- "Mother's Day" - Mother's Day for Frankie is anything but serene when she finds herself doing more for Mike and the kids and less for herself. But she learns that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree when she escapes the family for a few hours to go to her mom's (Marsha Mason, "The Goodbye Girl," "Chapter Two") and ends up acting like a child by making her mom wait on her hand and foot. Meanwhile, Sue feels guilty when she shoplifts a motivational magnet whose message actually enticed her to steal it, on "The Middle," WEDNESDAY, MAY 5 (8:30-9:00 p.m., ET). Marsha Mason guest stars as Frankie's mom, Pat.

MODERN FAMILY -- "Airport 2010" - For Jay's birthday, Gloria gives him the best surprise, a romantic birthday getaway to Hawaii. The only kicker is that she invited the entire family along. Everyone arrives at the airport, and it's a maddening scene with forgotten I.D.'s, security breaches and flying phobias, on "Modern Family," WEDNESDAY, MAY 5 (9:00-9:30 p.m., ET).

COUGAR TOWN -- "Feel a Whole Lot Better" - Jules and Grayson consider the notion of FWB, friends with benefits. Meanwhile Andy hires a nanny for Ellie, and Travis benefits from Bobby's unconventional plans to make some extra cash, on "Cougar Town," WEDNESDAY, MAY 5 (9:30-10:01 p.m., ET).

HAPPY TOWN - "I Came to Haplin for the Waters" - Shaken by a grisly murder at the local pond and his father's bizarre, self-inflicted injury, Deputy Tommy Conroy reluctantly accepts the title of Sherriff bestowed on him by town matriarch Peggy Haplin. However Tommy's shocking discovery of Jerry Friddle's murderer forces him to keep yet another of the town's secrets with mixed emotions. Meanwhile, Henley appears to know a lot more about Haplin's dark side than she's letting on - drawing Merritt Grieves closer - but she's determined to get access to the forbidden third-floor room of the mysterious boarding house, no matter what it takes, on "Happy Town," WEDNESDAY, MAY 5 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

FLASHFORWARD -- "Course Correction" - Demetri and Agent Banks (Alex Kingston) attempt to track down a killer as questions arise about the universe course-correcting itself, when people who thought they'd escaped their fates are found dead; Mark reluctantly agrees to help Simon find his sister, Annabelle, but discovers he's withholding the truth about her true circumstances; the FBI discovers the identity of Suspect Zero; and Nicole learns the whereabouts of Keiko - the woman in Bryce's flashforward - but struggles with whether to share this information, due to her growing feelings for him, on "FlashForward," THURSDAY, MAY 6 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). James Callis guest stars as Gabriel.

GREY'S ANATOMY -- "How Insensitive" - Bailey preps the team with a mandatory sensitivity training prior to admitting a 700-pound patient with compounded medical issues, and the case proves to be challenging in every sense. Meanwhile Derek has to come face to face with a former patient's husband in a wrongful death deposition, and spending time with a heart patient's daughter opens up some old wounds for Cristina, on "Grey's Anatomy," THURSDAY, MAY 6 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET).

PRIVATE PRACTICE -- "In the Name of Love" - Naomi puts Fife in a conflicted position when she begs him to help William's advanced ALS with his still experimental treatment. Meanwhile Violet and Amelia (Guest star Caterina Scorsone) treat a woman with a brain tumor who has to choose between life or quality of life, and Sheldon decides to officially throw his hat into the ring for Charlotte's affections, on "Private Practice," THURSDAY, MAY 6 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

WIFE SWAP -- "Beauvais/Clayton" - A successful family of inventors and entrepreneurs living their dreams swap with a family who, despite becoming unemployed, maintain a cheerful outlook while struggling to live in a trailer park on a low income, on "Wife Swap," FRIDAY, MAY 7 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). Each week two very contradictory families from across the country participate in a two-week-long challenge: The wives exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover daily life in another woman's shoes. This astonishing experiment repeatedly changes lives and redefines families.

AMERICA'S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEOS - "Episode 2023" -- Part One of a two-part series -- "America's Funniest Home Videos" counts down to "the 20 videos that changed the world" - features the funniest and most unique videos the show has received in its two decades on television, on "America's Funniest Home Videos," SUNDAY, MAY 9 (7:00-8:00 p.m., ET). The top video, to be named in the season finale, will win the entrant a cruise for four anywhere in the world that Disney Cruise Line sets sail (with choices including the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Mexican Riviera and Alaska), between June 2010 through September 2011. Tom Bergeron is host. The episode includes footage shot aboard the Disney Magic on an Eastern Caribbean cruise.

EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION -- "Starkweather family" - In this special story for Mother's Day, "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" travels to Tulsa, OK, to meet Toen and Amy Starkweather, whose nine-year-old son, Ethan, suffers from a rare disorder called Prader-Willi syndrome. This incurable disease causes low muscle tone, labored speech, troubled breathing and a malfunctioning hypothalamus, which results in extreme and constant hunger. Because Ethan requires 24-hour care, the mounting list of necessary home repairs has been left on the back burner. The Starkweathers' small home is very old, riddled with foundation, electrical and plumbing problems, and is barely accessible for Ethan. Also in the episode, the Make-a-Wish foundation will have a special guest on hand -- aspiring interior designer Callie London, 11, of Farmington, UT, who suffers from cystic fibrosis. Callie's wish to do a makeover on a kid's room will come to life as she works with Paul DiMeo in designing Ethan's new bedroom. Lilith Tour 2010 artists Sheryl Crow and Miranda Lambert are the "Get on the Bus" volunteers working and singing, while Sarah McLachlan also delivers a special message to the family, on "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," SUNDAY, MAY 9 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET).

DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES -- "The Ballad of Booth" - Lynette comes to a shocking realization about Eddie, on "Desperate Housewives," SUNDAY, MAY 9 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET). Meanwhile, Angie discreetly relies on Gaby for help when Patrick threatens the life of her son, Bree offers Sam a generous payoff to walk away, and Susan and Mike's financial woes result in the ultimate sacrifice.

BROTHERS & SISTERS -- "Lights Out" - The Walkers are heartbroken as they prepare to shut the doors of Ojai Foods for good, but new opportunities and secret alliances develop as a result of the family's loss, on "Brothers & Sisters," SUNDAY, MAY 9 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

CASTLE -- "Overkill" -- A robbery-homicide prompts Beckett to invite Demming to assist on a case, giving Castle a ringside seat to their budding romance. When it becomes clear that the two men have very different ideas about how to proceed, the investigation becomes an unspoken competition for Beckett's attention. With each of them racing to be the first to solve the case, Beckett must referee between her two admirers, on "Castle," MONDAY, MAY 10 (10:02-11:00 p.m., ET).

LOST -- "Across the Sea" -- TUESDAY, MAY 11 (9:00-10:02 p.m., ET). Copy TBD.

V -- "Fruition" - After a violent attack on someone very close to Anna, she delivers a message that the Vs don't feel safe and will be leaving; and Anna also gives a list of possible Fifth Column members to Chad, hoping he'll investigate to help in finding them. Meanwhile, Erica and the team try to track down a scientist who may have created a weapon that the Visitors are afraid of, on "V," TUESDAY, MAY 11 (10:02-11:00 p.m., ET).

THE MIDDLE -- "Signals" - The Heck family BBQ is being planned as spring rolls around, and Mike decides it's time for him and Brick to try to be more social at the event, since Frankie has pointed out that Mike's own social ineptness has been passed on to Brick. Meanwhile, Axl sets out to clean the family pool to entice the girls to stop by for a swim -- in their bikinis -- and Sue finally finds someone who totally understands her, church youth group leader Reverend TimTom. But when she learns he may be leaving the parish due to budget cuts, she tries to raise money to help finance his stay, on "The Middle," WEDNESDAY, MAY 12 (8:30-9:00 p.m., ET).

MODERN FAMILY -- "Hawaii" - Jay could not be happier to do nothing but relax in this tropical paradise, but an unexpected reality check dampens his plans. Meanwhile, Phil is determined to make this trip romantic for Claire, Mitchell and Cameron have opposing views on whether to sightsee or not to sightsee, and the kids get into a little bit of mischief when left to their own devices, on "Modern Family," WEDNESDAY, MAY 12 (9:00-9:30 p.m., ET).

COUGAR TOWN -- "Breakdown" - Jules encourages Travis to submit a graduation speech, on "Cougar Town," WEDNESDAY, MAY 12 (9:30-10:01 p.m., ET). Despite Grayson's warning, a curious Jules reads

the speech without permission and is crushed when she finds she has not been acknowledged. Meanwhile, Ellie uncharacteristically does something nice for Laurie, and Bobby tries to restrain himself from embarrassing Travis on his big day.

HAPPY TOWN -- "Polly Wants a Crack at Her" - An ominous fearsome hawk soars over Haplin's unsuspecting residents as the Thaw Fest celebration is about to start. Tommy must walk a precarious line when it comes to Friddle's murder, as a state investigator moves in to assist him. Andrew Haplin, still upset over girlfriend Georgia's assault, exacts revenge on the person he believes to be the perpetrator -- and pays for the consequences. Meanwhile, when Henley is a victim of a bizarre car accident, a handsome stranger not only comes to her rescue but lures her into a surprising, sensual relationship. And when Thaw Fest finally arrives, it comes with chilling and tragic consequences, on "Happy Town," WEDNESDAY, MAY 12 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

FLASHFORWARD -- "The Negotiation" - It's April 28 - the day before the prophesized flashforward date - and as the world waits to see if their future visions will come true, Mark must do everything in his power to protect Gabriel (James Callis, "Battlestar Galactica"), who is the bridge between Dyson Frost and the Global Blackout; Aaron locates his daughter's captors and puts his life on the line in order to rescue her; Janis is tasked with killing a fellow agent; and Simon comes face to face with the head of the nefarious organization that may be responsible for the blackout, on "FlashForward," THURSDAY, MAY 13 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). Guest stars include Gabrielle Union as Zoey and Annabeth Gish as Lita.

GREY'S ANATOMY -- "Shiny Happy People" - An elderly patient admitted into the E.R. for a heart condition sees a familiar face, a long lost love who happens to be in the E.R. as well for a fractured arm, and the staff find themselves caught up in their love story. Meanwhile, Karev treats a troubled teenage patient (guest star Demi Lovato) whose parents brought her in for schizophrenia, and Meredith can't help but tell Cristina about her suspicions of Owen -- which inevitably messes with Cristina's head -- on "Grey's Anatomy," THURSDAY, MAY 13 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET). Marion Ross guest stars as Betty.

PRIVATE PRACTICE -- "The End of a Beautiful Friendship" - Maya and her unborn baby are fighting for their lives on the operating table, and Addison, Amelia (Guest star Caterina Scorsone) and Fife try everything humanly possible to save them. Meanwhile, Sam operates on an incoming crash victim and later makes a grim discovery, Cooper makes an ill-timed but valiant effort with Charlotte, and the staff's world is rocked by an unexpected death, on the SEASON FINALE of "Private Practice," THURSDAY, MAY 13 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

WIFE SWAP -- "Haller-Wren/Spencer" - A macho family of football players who expect their trophy wife mom to serve their every need swap lives with a happy hippie family whose feminist mom believes in breaking accepted gender roles, on "Wife Swap," FRIDAY, MAY 14 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). Each week two very contradictory families from across the country participate in a two-week-long challenge: The wives exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover daily life in another woman's shoes. This astonishing experiment repeatedly changes lives and redefines families.

AMERICA'S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEOS - "Episode 2024" -- In part two of a two-part series -- the top videos "that changed the world!" - the funniest, the strangest, most unusual video the show has received in its two decades on television is revealed, on the SEASON FINALE of "America's Funniest Home Videos," SUNDAY, MAY 16 (7:00-8:00 p.m., ET). The top video will win the entrant a cruise for four anywhere in the world that Disney Cruise Line sets sail (with choices including the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Mexican Riviera and Alaska), between June 2010 through September 2011. Tom Bergeron is the host. The season finale includes footage shot aboard the Disney Magic on an Eastern Caribbean cruise.

EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION -- "Williams family" - In the SEASON FINALE, "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" travels to Pine Mountain Valley, GA, to meet Jeremy and Jennifer Williams, whose son, Jacob, was diagnosed with Spina Bifida before he was born. Then, several years after Jacob's birth, Jeremy was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease. The home Jeremy and Jennifer bought 13 years ago is falling apart around them; in addition to mounting repairs, the home is too small to accommodate two disabled family members. NFL Super Star Michael Oher and the Tuohy Family ("The Blind Side") are the "Get on the Bus" volunteers, while ESPN football analysts Herm Edwards, Mark Schlereth, Mark May and Desmond Howard are special guests, plus Demi Lovato (sings) and Wilmer Valderrama (with "Handy Manny") also make appearances, SUNDAY, MAY 16
(8:00-9:00 p.m., ET).

DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES -- "I Guess This is Goodbye" - As a season of mysteries are resolved, new ones emerge on the explosive SEASON FINALE of "Desperate Housewives," SUNDAY, MAY 16 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET). Gaby risks her safety to help Angie, the fates of Lynette and her unborn child lie in Eddie's hands, Susan comes to grips with her financial woes, Bree considers confessing a secret she's harbored for years, and Angie must submit to Patrick's demands in order to protect her son.

BROTHERS & SISTERS -- "On the Road Again" - As the Walkers try to cope with the sadness and financial ruin that lingers as a result of the closure of Ojai Foods, they discover a small ray of hope in one of William Walker's many secret investments. Meanwhile, Robert's health and the safety of his family are compromised when he finds himself in way over his head in a subversive business deal, and newlyweds Justin and Rebecca consider a trial separation, on the SEASON FINALE of "Brothers & Sisters," SUNDAY, MAY 16 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

CASTLE - "A Deadly Game" - In the SEASON FINALE, nothing is as it seems when Castle and Beckett investigate what appears to be the assassination of an intelligence operative. Meanwhile, Beckett's romance with Demming threatens her relationship with Castle, forcing them to confront their feelings for each other, on "Castle," MONDAY, MAY 17 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET). Guest stars include Stephen J. Cannell, Michael Connelly and James Patterson as themselves.

LOST -- "What They Died For" -- TUESDAY, MAY 18 (9:00-10:02 p.m., ET). Copy TBD.

V -- In the SEASON FINALE, "Red Sky," the episode opens with the V soldier still on the hunt for Val, whose water breaks and whose baby (with Ryan) will soon be born. Meanwhile Erica, tired of being on the defensive, decides to go on the offensive: She gets herself and Tyler invited up to the Mothership for a get-to-know-everyone-better dinner, but she has more than food on her mind; she's really there to find Anna's soldiers and destroy them. And Chad, after Father Jack asks him to help get a message on the ship to Joshua, discovers the awful truth that Anna's been using him, on "V," TUESDAY, MAY 18 (10:02-11:00 p.m., ET).

THE MIDDLE -- "Average Rules" - After attending year-end school parent-teacher conferences, Frankie and Mike are shocked to discover that Brick may be held back from going to the third grade because the school librarian, Mrs. Nethercott (Guest star Betty White), has it out for him due to his 31 unreturned books. Meanwhile, as Axl's aptitude test results reveal that he's academically gifted, Frankie makes it her mission to get an overlooked Sue the recognition she deserves when her teachers don't even realize she's in their classes, on the SEASON FINALE of "The Middle," WEDNESDAY, MAY 19 (8:30-9:00 p.m., ET).

MODERN FAMILY -- "Family Portrait" - Claire painstakingly plans for a new family portrait to be taken, but it seems everything and everyone is working against her. Meanwhile Gloria and Manny go with Phil and Alex to a Lakers game and end up having a very awkward moment on the jumbotron, Luke interviews Jay for a school project, and Cameron gets a wedding singer gig while Mitchell is home alone with Lily and a wayward pigeon, on the SEASON FINALE of "Modern Family," WEDNESDAY, MAY 19 (9:00-9:30 p.m., ET). Los Angeles Lakers Kobe Bryant Makes a Cameo Appearance.

COUGAR TOWN -- "Finding Out" - Jules and Grayson hatch an elaborate plan to break the news to Bobby they're dating, and Travis sees the wrath of a truly angry woman for the first time when he forgets his momentous seven-month anniversary with Kylie, on the SEASON FINALE of "Cougar Town," WEDNESDAY, MAY 19 (9:30-10:01 p.m., ET).

HAPPY TOWN -- "Slight of Hand" - When Rachel Conroy mysteriously vanishes, an eerie cloud settles over Haplin, as clues point to the return of the elusive Magic Man. Surprisingly, Tommy finds an unlikely ally while desperately searching for his wife. Meanwhile, Handsome Dan announces he has to leave Haplin, then unexpectedly turns up elsewhere. Henley manages to get her stolen property back from Greggy Stiviletto and uses it to blackmail a member of Haplin's powerful "first" family. Finally, Tommy investigates some gruesome evidence that ironically could mean good news for many of Haplin's families, on "Happy Town," WEDNESDAY, MAY 19 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

FLASHFORWARD - "Countdown" -- TUESDAY, MAY 25 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). Copy TBD.

GREY'S ANATOMY -- "Sanctuary" - In the first hour (9:00-10:00 p.m., ET) of a two-hour SEASON FINALE, Seattle Grace Hospital is hit with a crisis like no other in its history, on "Grey's Anatomy," THURSDAY, MAY 20. In the second hour (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET), "Death and All His Friends," Cristina and Meredith's surgical skills are put to the ultimate test. Mandy Moore ("A Walk to Remember") guest stars.

WIFE SWAP -- "Herrington/Trevino" - A clean-cut family who perform a wholesome variety show swap with a rules-free family of low-riders who let their girls wear and say anything they want, on "Wife Swap," FRIDAY, MAY 21 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). Each week two very contradictory families from across the country participate in a two-week-long challenge: The wives exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover daily life in another woman's shoes. This astonishing experiment repeatedly changes lives and redefines families.

LOST RECAP SPECIAL -- ABC offers new and avid "Lost" viewers a final glance at one of television's most talked about and critically acclaimed shows. The "Lost" Series Finale Event begins with a two-hour special that takes a look back over the past six seasons of this groundbreaking series. "Lost Recap Special" airs SUNDAY, MAY 23 (7:00-9:00 p.m., ET).

LOST - "The End" -- SERIES FINALE, SUNDAY, MAY 23 (9:00-11:00 p.m., ET). Copy TBD.
"JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE" -- Throughout sweeps, Jimmy Kimmel hosts an all-star lineup of guests including, Mickey Rourke, Samuel L. Jackson, Don Cheadle, Ryan Phillippe, Michael Douglas, Josh Holloway, Jake Gyllenhaal, Teri Hatcher and Courtney Love, and will also have the first interview with the winner of "Dancing with the Stars." In addition, after the final episode of "LOST," longtime fan Jimmy will host an hour-long analysis of and farewell to one of television's most beloved series, with appearances from executive producers Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse, alternate endings, and live interviews with cast members, SUNDAY, MAY 23 (11:35 p.m. - 12:35 a.m.). The month of May also brings musical performances from Hole, Stone Temple Pilots, Tim McGraw Godsmack, Angels and Airwaves, Dirty Heads, Slayer, Damian Marley with Nas and Massive Attack, who are making their only U.S. TV appearance. "Jimmy Kimmel Live" airs MONDAY-FRIDAY (12:05 a.m. - 1:05 a.m., ET).

THE BACHELORETTE - Ali Fedotowsky has finally decided to risk it all for love. The energetic and charismatic career-oriented woman from San Francisco has re-prioritized her life - and now love comes out on top. She will have her own opportunity to find her soul mate when the sixth edition of "The Bachelorette" PREMIERES MONDAY, MAY 24 (9:00-11:00 p.m., ET), and moves to its regular time slot (8:00-10:02 p.m., ET) on Monday, May 31

Ali, 25, has been a fan favorite from the moment she stepped out of the limo with her sexy raspy voice and a peacock feather to meet Jake Pavelka on the last season of "The Bachelor." She became the front-runner for Jake's heart, but instead they found themselves in a heartbreaking situation when she made a gut-wrenching decision to choose a job she loved over the man she loved. Ali made the surprising safe choice to go back to work, but regretted it immediately. By the time she sorted out her work affairs, Jake had already moved on with his search for love with the three fabulous women who stayed with him, and he did not allow Ali to return. But it's not too late for Ali now. Admitting that she made one of the biggest mistakes of her life, she has let go of everything this time - her apartment, her job, her stability - to really make a life-changing commitment to put her heart first.

DANCING WITH THE STARS - 1010A" -- SEASON FINALE airs on TUESDAY, MAY 25 (9:00-
11:00 p.m., ET).

Source: ABC Media

ABC's May Sweeps

Thursday, April 29, 2010
ABC Television Network
PRESS RELEASE - PRESS RELEASE - PRESS RELEASE - ENTERTAINMENT - -
ABC ANNOUNCES MAY SWEEPS PROGRAMMING
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ABC ANNOUNCES MAY SWEEPS PROGRAMMING, INCLUDING THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SERIES FINALE OF "LOST" AND THE SEASON PREMIERE OF "THE BACHELORETTE"




The ABC Television Network announces highlights of its upcoming May sweeps programming, with finales of some of television's biggest hits, including the groundbreaking series finale of "Lost" and the season premiere of "The Bachelorette."

Editors please note: What follows is a chronological listing of programming highlights (all times Eastern); this is not a complete list of all programs airing during the May sweep. As airdates are subject to change, please monitor ABC's daily press bundle or www.abcmedianet.com.

FLASHFORWARD -- "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" - Janis continues to thwart her fellow FBI agents as an inside mole to a mysterious employer; Olivia is given some disturbing news by Gabriel (James Callis, Gaius Baltar on "Battlestar Galactica"), who has been subjected to numerous flashforwards; and Aaron's life is in danger in Afghanistan when he tries to blend in with the locals as he continues his search for his daughter, on "FlashForward," THURSDAY, APRIL 29 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET).

GREY'S ANATOMY -- "Hook, Line and Sinner" - Sloan returns to Mark's apartment, just as she's going into labor, and Teddy, Mark and the still-fighting Callie and Arizona are there to help with the birth and to get Mark through his grandson's pending adoption. Meanwhile Teddy sees Derek's invitation to illustrious cardiothoracic surgeon Tom Evans' as a threat to her future employment at the hospital, and the team work on a crab boat captain who has been stabbed with a giant shark hook, on "Grey's Anatomy," THURSDAY, APRIL 29 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET).

PRIVATE PRACTICE -- "War" - After Violet files for joint custody of Lucas, an embittered Pete voraciously fights back by hiring a tough attorney for the trial, forcing their fellow friends and co-workers to choose sides and have their personal lives dragged onto the stand and into the public eye, on "Private Practice," THURSDAY, APRIL 29 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET). Guest stars include Caterina Scorsone as Amelia Shepherd and Frances Fisher as Ruby Broome.

WIFE SWAP -- "Schroeder/Wardle" - An artistic Goth family that encourages the kids to talk to the dead swaps with a family of hockey fanatics that doesn't hesitate to call kids losers when they play badly, on "Wife Swap," FRIDAY, APRIL 30 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). Each week two very contradictory families from across the country participate in a two-week-long challenge: The wives exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover daily life in another woman's shoes. This astonishing experiment repeatedly changes lives and redefines families.

WIFE SWAP -- "Adams/Hess" - A reptile and animal-obsessed family with no rules or fashion sense swap with a strict family who can't stand animals and say that "fashion is more important than air," on "Wife Swap," FRIDAY, APRIL 30 (9:00-10:00 p.m., ET). Each week two very contradictory families from across the country participate in a two-week-long challenge: The wives exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover daily life in another woman's shoes. This astonishing experiment repeatedly changes lives and redefines families.

AMERICA'S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEOS - "Episode 2022" -- This season's three $100,000 prize winners compete for the Grand Prize, on "America's Funniest Home Videos," SUNDAY, MAY 2 (7:00-8:00 p.m., ET). The final three videos: "Laser Chasers," a Great Dane and a toddler are equally obsessed with a laser pointer; "Boogie Baby," a baby rocks out with a musical doll; and "The Great Escape," Junior the Chihuahua leads an escape from the utility room. The episode features footage shot at the Walt Disney World(r) Resort in Florida, at Epcot(r) and the Magic Kingdom(r) Park. Tom Bergeron is host.

EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION -- "Carr family" - "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" travels to rural Mineola, TX, to meet Katrina and Mike Carr and their four adopted children (who are from Kazakhstan and were abandoned at birth), an inspiring family who strive every day to overcome severe physical challenges while living in a cramped and dangerous home. This is a Texas-sized opportunity to give back to a family who have become models of spirit and resilience. Comedian, actor, producer and author Bill Engvall is the "Get on the Bus" volunteer, while Bethany Hamilton, a surfer famous for losing her arm in a shark attack, spends time with the Carrs on their vacation, on "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," SUNDAY, MAY 2 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET).

DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES -- "A Little Night Music" - Angie comes face to face with her ex, Patrick Logan (John Barrowman), after years on the run, SUNDAY, MAY 2 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET) on "Desperate Housewives." Meanwhile, Gaby and Susan plan an elaborate scheme against their husbands, Lynette sees a darker side of Eddie, and Bree meets a woman who knows Sam all too well.

BROTHERS & SISTERS - "Love All" - The Walkers seem to all be going through an adjustment period: Cooper acts out against Sarah as Luc becomes a member of the family, Justin has trouble finding the same passion for medicine he had while serving in Iraq, and Kevin struggles with his newfound unemployed status, on "Brothers & Sisters," SUNDAY, MAY 2 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

ROMANTICALLY CHALLENGED -- "Perry and Rebecca's High School Reunion" - When it's time for Rebecca and Perry to go back to their high school reunion, Rebecca is ready to confront Jesse, the guy who publicly humiliated her by standing her up at the senior prom. But Perry knows the real reason why she was stood up and tells a preposterous lie to keep Rebecca from discovering the truth. Meanwhile, avid hockey fan Shawn is devastated when he finds out that the local cable company won't be carrying the championship games. When he learns further that Lisa's friend, Vanessa, has the games on her cable station, he has to hide his real motive for romancing Vanessa from both women, on "Romantically Challenged," MONDAY, MAY 3 (9:32-10:00 p.m., ET).

CASTLE -- "Food to Die For" -- A high profile chef is found frozen in the kitchen of a hot New York restaurant. Complications ensue when Castle and the restaurant owner, an old high school girlfriend of Beckett's, share an attraction. Meanwhile, Beckett's relationship with Detective Demming (Michael Trucco) continues to grow, on "Castle," MONDAY, MAY 3 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET). Rocco Dispirito, a fan of the dead chef and a fan of Castle's books, guest stars in the episode.

LOST -- "The Candidate " -- Jack must decide whether or not to trust Locke after he is asked to follow through on a difficult task, on "Lost," TUESDAY, MAY 4 (9:00-10:02 p.m., ET)

V - "Hearts and Minds" -- Erica, Ryan, Father Jack and Hobbes learn that Anna has sent a V shuttle with a deadly V tracker team to find them, and must figure out how to stop the shuttle from landing. Meanwhile, Anna gives Tyler his invitation to the Live Aboard Program, and Chad confronts Father Jack on what he knows about The Fifth Column, on "V," TUESDAY, MAY 4 (10:02-11:00 p.m., ET).

THE MIDDLE -- "Mother's Day" - Mother's Day for Frankie is anything but serene when she finds herself doing more for Mike and the kids and less for herself. But she learns that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree when she escapes the family for a few hours to go to her mom's (Marsha Mason, "The Goodbye Girl," "Chapter Two") and ends up acting like a child by making her mom wait on her hand and foot. Meanwhile, Sue feels guilty when she shoplifts a motivational magnet whose message actually enticed her to steal it, on "The Middle," WEDNESDAY, MAY 5 (8:30-9:00 p.m., ET). Marsha Mason guest stars as Frankie's mom, Pat.

MODERN FAMILY -- "Airport 2010" - For Jay's birthday, Gloria gives him the best surprise, a romantic birthday getaway to Hawaii. The only kicker is that she invited the entire family along. Everyone arrives at the airport, and it's a maddening scene with forgotten I.D.'s, security breaches and flying phobias, on "Modern Family," WEDNESDAY, MAY 5 (9:00-9:30 p.m., ET).

COUGAR TOWN -- "Feel a Whole Lot Better" - Jules and Grayson consider the notion of FWB, friends with benefits. Meanwhile Andy hires a nanny for Ellie, and Travis benefits from Bobby's unconventional plans to make some extra cash, on "Cougar Town," WEDNESDAY, MAY 5 (9:30-10:01 p.m., ET).

HAPPY TOWN - "I Came to Haplin for the Waters" - Shaken by a grisly murder at the local pond and his father's bizarre, self-inflicted injury, Deputy Tommy Conroy reluctantly accepts the title of Sherriff bestowed on him by town matriarch Peggy Haplin. However Tommy's shocking discovery of Jerry Friddle's murderer forces him to keep yet another of the town's secrets with mixed emotions. Meanwhile, Henley appears to know a lot more about Haplin's dark side than she's letting on - drawing Merritt Grieves closer - but she's determined to get access to the forbidden third-floor room of the mysterious boarding house, no matter what it takes, on "Happy Town," WEDNESDAY, MAY 5 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

FLASHFORWARD -- "Course Correction" - Demetri and Agent Banks (Alex Kingston) attempt to track down a killer as questions arise about the universe course-correcting itself, when people who thought they'd escaped their fates are found dead; Mark reluctantly agrees to help Simon find his sister, Annabelle, but discovers he's withholding the truth about her true circumstances; the FBI discovers the identity of Suspect Zero; and Nicole learns the whereabouts of Keiko - the woman in Bryce's flashforward - but struggles with whether to share this information, due to her growing feelings for him, on "FlashForward," THURSDAY, MAY 6 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). James Callis guest stars as Gabriel.

GREY'S ANATOMY -- "How Insensitive" - Bailey preps the team with a mandatory sensitivity training prior to admitting a 700-pound patient with compounded medical issues, and the case proves to be challenging in every sense. Meanwhile Derek has to come face to face with a former patient's husband in a wrongful death deposition, and spending time with a heart patient's daughter opens up some old wounds for Cristina, on "Grey's Anatomy," THURSDAY, MAY 6 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET).

PRIVATE PRACTICE -- "In the Name of Love" - Naomi puts Fife in a conflicted position when she begs him to help William's advanced ALS with his still experimental treatment. Meanwhile Violet and Amelia (Guest star Caterina Scorsone) treat a woman with a brain tumor who has to choose between life or quality of life, and Sheldon decides to officially throw his hat into the ring for Charlotte's affections, on "Private Practice," THURSDAY, MAY 6 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

WIFE SWAP -- "Beauvais/Clayton" - A successful family of inventors and entrepreneurs living their dreams swap with a family who, despite becoming unemployed, maintain a cheerful outlook while struggling to live in a trailer park on a low income, on "Wife Swap," FRIDAY, MAY 7 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). Each week two very contradictory families from across the country participate in a two-week-long challenge: The wives exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover daily life in another woman's shoes. This astonishing experiment repeatedly changes lives and redefines families.

AMERICA'S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEOS - "Episode 2023" -- Part One of a two-part series -- "America's Funniest Home Videos" counts down to "the 20 videos that changed the world" - features the funniest and most unique videos the show has received in its two decades on television, on "America's Funniest Home Videos," SUNDAY, MAY 9 (7:00-8:00 p.m., ET). The top video, to be named in the season finale, will win the entrant a cruise for four anywhere in the world that Disney Cruise Line sets sail (with choices including the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Mexican Riviera and Alaska), between June 2010 through September 2011. Tom Bergeron is host. The episode includes footage shot aboard the Disney Magic on an Eastern Caribbean cruise.

EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION -- "Starkweather family" - In this special story for Mother's Day, "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" travels to Tulsa, OK, to meet Toen and Amy Starkweather, whose nine-year-old son, Ethan, suffers from a rare disorder called Prader-Willi syndrome. This incurable disease causes low muscle tone, labored speech, troubled breathing and a malfunctioning hypothalamus, which results in extreme and constant hunger. Because Ethan requires 24-hour care, the mounting list of necessary home repairs has been left on the back burner. The Starkweathers' small home is very old, riddled with foundation, electrical and plumbing problems, and is barely accessible for Ethan. Also in the episode, the Make-a-Wish foundation will have a special guest on hand -- aspiring interior designer Callie London, 11, of Farmington, UT, who suffers from cystic fibrosis. Callie's wish to do a makeover on a kid's room will come to life as she works with Paul DiMeo in designing Ethan's new bedroom. Lilith Tour 2010 artists Sheryl Crow and Miranda Lambert are the "Get on the Bus" volunteers working and singing, while Sarah McLachlan also delivers a special message to the family, on "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," SUNDAY, MAY 9 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET).

DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES -- "The Ballad of Booth" - Lynette comes to a shocking realization about Eddie, on "Desperate Housewives," SUNDAY, MAY 9 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET). Meanwhile, Angie discreetly relies on Gaby for help when Patrick threatens the life of her son, Bree offers Sam a generous payoff to walk away, and Susan and Mike's financial woes result in the ultimate sacrifice.

BROTHERS & SISTERS -- "Lights Out" - The Walkers are heartbroken as they prepare to shut the doors of Ojai Foods for good, but new opportunities and secret alliances develop as a result of the family's loss, on "Brothers & Sisters," SUNDAY, MAY 9 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

CASTLE -- "Overkill" -- A robbery-homicide prompts Beckett to invite Demming to assist on a case, giving Castle a ringside seat to their budding romance. When it becomes clear that the two men have very different ideas about how to proceed, the investigation becomes an unspoken competition for Beckett's attention. With each of them racing to be the first to solve the case, Beckett must referee between her two admirers, on "Castle," MONDAY, MAY 10 (10:02-11:00 p.m., ET).

LOST -- "Across the Sea" -- TUESDAY, MAY 11 (9:00-10:02 p.m., ET). Copy TBD.

V -- "Fruition" - After a violent attack on someone very close to Anna, she delivers a message that the Vs don't feel safe and will be leaving; and Anna also gives a list of possible Fifth Column members to Chad, hoping he'll investigate to help in finding them. Meanwhile, Erica and the team try to track down a scientist who may have created a weapon that the Visitors are afraid of, on "V," TUESDAY, MAY 11 (10:02-11:00 p.m., ET).

THE MIDDLE -- "Signals" - The Heck family BBQ is being planned as spring rolls around, and Mike decides it's time for him and Brick to try to be more social at the event, since Frankie has pointed out that Mike's own social ineptness has been passed on to Brick. Meanwhile, Axl sets out to clean the family pool to entice the girls to stop by for a swim -- in their bikinis -- and Sue finally finds someone who totally understands her, church youth group leader Reverend TimTom. But when she learns he may be leaving the parish due to budget cuts, she tries to raise money to help finance his stay, on "The Middle," WEDNESDAY, MAY 12 (8:30-9:00 p.m., ET).

MODERN FAMILY -- "Hawaii" - Jay could not be happier to do nothing but relax in this tropical paradise, but an unexpected reality check dampens his plans. Meanwhile, Phil is determined to make this trip romantic for Claire, Mitchell and Cameron have opposing views on whether to sightsee or not to sightsee, and the kids get into a little bit of mischief when left to their own devices, on "Modern Family," WEDNESDAY, MAY 12 (9:00-9:30 p.m., ET).

COUGAR TOWN -- "Breakdown" - Jules encourages Travis to submit a graduation speech, on "Cougar Town," WEDNESDAY, MAY 12 (9:30-10:01 p.m., ET). Despite Grayson's warning, a curious Jules reads

the speech without permission and is crushed when she finds she has not been acknowledged. Meanwhile, Ellie uncharacteristically does something nice for Laurie, and Bobby tries to restrain himself from embarrassing Travis on his big day.

HAPPY TOWN -- "Polly Wants a Crack at Her" - An ominous fearsome hawk soars over Haplin's unsuspecting residents as the Thaw Fest celebration is about to start. Tommy must walk a precarious line when it comes to Friddle's murder, as a state investigator moves in to assist him. Andrew Haplin, still upset over girlfriend Georgia's assault, exacts revenge on the person he believes to be the perpetrator -- and pays for the consequences. Meanwhile, when Henley is a victim of a bizarre car accident, a handsome stranger not only comes to her rescue but lures her into a surprising, sensual relationship. And when Thaw Fest finally arrives, it comes with chilling and tragic consequences, on "Happy Town," WEDNESDAY, MAY 12 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

FLASHFORWARD -- "The Negotiation" - It's April 28 - the day before the prophesized flashforward date - and as the world waits to see if their future visions will come true, Mark must do everything in his power to protect Gabriel (James Callis, "Battlestar Galactica"), who is the bridge between Dyson Frost and the Global Blackout; Aaron locates his daughter's captors and puts his life on the line in order to rescue her; Janis is tasked with killing a fellow agent; and Simon comes face to face with the head of the nefarious organization that may be responsible for the blackout, on "FlashForward," THURSDAY, MAY 13 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). Guest stars include Gabrielle Union as Zoey and Annabeth Gish as Lita.

GREY'S ANATOMY -- "Shiny Happy People" - An elderly patient admitted into the E.R. for a heart condition sees a familiar face, a long lost love who happens to be in the E.R. as well for a fractured arm, and the staff find themselves caught up in their love story. Meanwhile, Karev treats a troubled teenage patient (guest star Demi Lovato) whose parents brought her in for schizophrenia, and Meredith can't help but tell Cristina about her suspicions of Owen -- which inevitably messes with Cristina's head -- on "Grey's Anatomy," THURSDAY, MAY 13 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET). Marion Ross guest stars as Betty.

PRIVATE PRACTICE -- "The End of a Beautiful Friendship" - Maya and her unborn baby are fighting for their lives on the operating table, and Addison, Amelia (Guest star Caterina Scorsone) and Fife try everything humanly possible to save them. Meanwhile, Sam operates on an incoming crash victim and later makes a grim discovery, Cooper makes an ill-timed but valiant effort with Charlotte, and the staff's world is rocked by an unexpected death, on the SEASON FINALE of "Private Practice," THURSDAY, MAY 13 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

WIFE SWAP -- "Haller-Wren/Spencer" - A macho family of football players who expect their trophy wife mom to serve their every need swap lives with a happy hippie family whose feminist mom believes in breaking accepted gender roles, on "Wife Swap," FRIDAY, MAY 14 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). Each week two very contradictory families from across the country participate in a two-week-long challenge: The wives exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover daily life in another woman's shoes. This astonishing experiment repeatedly changes lives and redefines families.

AMERICA'S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEOS - "Episode 2024" -- In part two of a two-part series -- the top videos "that changed the world!" - the funniest, the strangest, most unusual video the show has received in its two decades on television is revealed, on the SEASON FINALE of "America's Funniest Home Videos," SUNDAY, MAY 16 (7:00-8:00 p.m., ET). The top video will win the entrant a cruise for four anywhere in the world that Disney Cruise Line sets sail (with choices including the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Mexican Riviera and Alaska), between June 2010 through September 2011. Tom Bergeron is the host. The season finale includes footage shot aboard the Disney Magic on an Eastern Caribbean cruise.

EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION -- "Williams family" - In the SEASON FINALE, "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" travels to Pine Mountain Valley, GA, to meet Jeremy and Jennifer Williams, whose son, Jacob, was diagnosed with Spina Bifida before he was born. Then, several years after Jacob's birth, Jeremy was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease. The home Jeremy and Jennifer bought 13 years ago is falling apart around them; in addition to mounting repairs, the home is too small to accommodate two disabled family members. NFL Super Star Michael Oher and the Tuohy Family ("The Blind Side") are the "Get on the Bus" volunteers, while ESPN football analysts Herm Edwards, Mark Schlereth, Mark May and Desmond Howard are special guests, plus Demi Lovato (sings) and Wilmer Valderrama (with "Handy Manny") also make appearances, SUNDAY, MAY 16
(8:00-9:00 p.m., ET).

DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES -- "I Guess This is Goodbye" - As a season of mysteries are resolved, new ones emerge on the explosive SEASON FINALE of "Desperate Housewives," SUNDAY, MAY 16 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET). Gaby risks her safety to help Angie, the fates of Lynette and her unborn child lie in Eddie's hands, Susan comes to grips with her financial woes, Bree considers confessing a secret she's harbored for years, and Angie must submit to Patrick's demands in order to protect her son.

BROTHERS & SISTERS -- "On the Road Again" - As the Walkers try to cope with the sadness and financial ruin that lingers as a result of the closure of Ojai Foods, they discover a small ray of hope in one of William Walker's many secret investments. Meanwhile, Robert's health and the safety of his family are compromised when he finds himself in way over his head in a subversive business deal, and newlyweds Justin and Rebecca consider a trial separation, on the SEASON FINALE of "Brothers & Sisters," SUNDAY, MAY 16 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

CASTLE - "A Deadly Game" - In the SEASON FINALE, nothing is as it seems when Castle and Beckett investigate what appears to be the assassination of an intelligence operative. Meanwhile, Beckett's romance with Demming threatens her relationship with Castle, forcing them to confront their feelings for each other, on "Castle," MONDAY, MAY 17 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET). Guest stars include Stephen J. Cannell, Michael Connelly and James Patterson as themselves.

LOST -- "What They Died For" -- TUESDAY, MAY 18 (9:00-10:02 p.m., ET). Copy TBD.

V -- In the SEASON FINALE, "Red Sky," the episode opens with the V soldier still on the hunt for Val, whose water breaks and whose baby (with Ryan) will soon be born. Meanwhile Erica, tired of being on the defensive, decides to go on the offensive: She gets herself and Tyler invited up to the Mothership for a get-to-know-everyone-better dinner, but she has more than food on her mind; she's really there to find Anna's soldiers and destroy them. And Chad, after Father Jack asks him to help get a message on the ship to Joshua, discovers the awful truth that Anna's been using him, on "V," TUESDAY, MAY 18 (10:02-11:00 p.m., ET).

THE MIDDLE -- "Average Rules" - After attending year-end school parent-teacher conferences, Frankie and Mike are shocked to discover that Brick may be held back from going to the third grade because the school librarian, Mrs. Nethercott (Guest star Betty White), has it out for him due to his 31 unreturned books. Meanwhile, as Axl's aptitude test results reveal that he's academically gifted, Frankie makes it her mission to get an overlooked Sue the recognition she deserves when her teachers don't even realize she's in their classes, on the SEASON FINALE of "The Middle," WEDNESDAY, MAY 19 (8:30-9:00 p.m., ET).

MODERN FAMILY -- "Family Portrait" - Claire painstakingly plans for a new family portrait to be taken, but it seems everything and everyone is working against her. Meanwhile Gloria and Manny go with Phil and Alex to a Lakers game and end up having a very awkward moment on the jumbotron, Luke interviews Jay for a school project, and Cameron gets a wedding singer gig while Mitchell is home alone with Lily and a wayward pigeon, on the SEASON FINALE of "Modern Family," WEDNESDAY, MAY 19 (9:00-9:30 p.m., ET). Los Angeles Lakers Kobe Bryant Makes a Cameo Appearance.

COUGAR TOWN -- "Finding Out" - Jules and Grayson hatch an elaborate plan to break the news to Bobby they're dating, and Travis sees the wrath of a truly angry woman for the first time when he forgets his momentous seven-month anniversary with Kylie, on the SEASON FINALE of "Cougar Town," WEDNESDAY, MAY 19 (9:30-10:01 p.m., ET).

HAPPY TOWN -- "Slight of Hand" - When Rachel Conroy mysteriously vanishes, an eerie cloud settles over Haplin, as clues point to the return of the elusive Magic Man. Surprisingly, Tommy finds an unlikely ally while desperately searching for his wife. Meanwhile, Handsome Dan announces he has to leave Haplin, then unexpectedly turns up elsewhere. Henley manages to get her stolen property back from Greggy Stiviletto and uses it to blackmail a member of Haplin's powerful "first" family. Finally, Tommy investigates some gruesome evidence that ironically could mean good news for many of Haplin's families, on "Happy Town," WEDNESDAY, MAY 19 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET).

FLASHFORWARD - "Countdown" -- TUESDAY, MAY 25 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). Copy TBD.

GREY'S ANATOMY -- "Sanctuary" - In the first hour (9:00-10:00 p.m., ET) of a two-hour SEASON FINALE, Seattle Grace Hospital is hit with a crisis like no other in its history, on "Grey's Anatomy," THURSDAY, MAY 20. In the second hour (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET), "Death and All His Friends," Cristina and Meredith's surgical skills are put to the ultimate test. Mandy Moore ("A Walk to Remember") guest stars.

WIFE SWAP -- "Herrington/Trevino" - A clean-cut family who perform a wholesome variety show swap with a rules-free family of low-riders who let their girls wear and say anything they want, on "Wife Swap," FRIDAY, MAY 21 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET). Each week two very contradictory families from across the country participate in a two-week-long challenge: The wives exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover daily life in another woman's shoes. This astonishing experiment repeatedly changes lives and redefines families.

LOST RECAP SPECIAL -- ABC offers new and avid "Lost" viewers a final glance at one of television's most talked about and critically acclaimed shows. The "Lost" Series Finale Event begins with a two-hour special that takes a look back over the past six seasons of this groundbreaking series. "Lost Recap Special" airs SUNDAY, MAY 23 (7:00-9:00 p.m., ET).

LOST - "The End" -- SERIES FINALE, SUNDAY, MAY 23 (9:00-11:00 p.m., ET). Copy TBD.
"JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE" -- Throughout sweeps, Jimmy Kimmel hosts an all-star lineup of guests including, Mickey Rourke, Samuel L. Jackson, Don Cheadle, Ryan Phillippe, Michael Douglas, Josh Holloway, Jake Gyllenhaal, Teri Hatcher and Courtney Love, and will also have the first interview with the winner of "Dancing with the Stars." In addition, after the final episode of "LOST," longtime fan Jimmy will host an hour-long analysis of and farewell to one of television's most beloved series, with appearances from executive producers Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse, alternate endings, and live interviews with cast members, SUNDAY, MAY 23 (11:35 p.m. - 12:35 a.m.). The month of May also brings musical performances from Hole, Stone Temple Pilots, Tim McGraw Godsmack, Angels and Airwaves, Dirty Heads, Slayer, Damian Marley with Nas and Massive Attack, who are making their only U.S. TV appearance. "Jimmy Kimmel Live" airs MONDAY-FRIDAY (12:05 a.m. - 1:05 a.m., ET).

THE BACHELORETTE - Ali Fedotowsky has finally decided to risk it all for love. The energetic and charismatic career-oriented woman from San Francisco has re-prioritized her life - and now love comes out on top. She will have her own opportunity to find her soul mate when the sixth edition of "The Bachelorette" PREMIERES MONDAY, MAY 24 (9:00-11:00 p.m., ET), and moves to its regular time slot (8:00-10:02 p.m., ET) on Monday, May 31

Ali, 25, has been a fan favorite from the moment she stepped out of the limo with her sexy raspy voice and a peacock feather to meet Jake Pavelka on the last season of "The Bachelor." She became the front-runner for Jake's heart, but instead they found themselves in a heartbreaking situation when she made a gut-wrenching decision to choose a job she loved over the man she loved. Ali made the surprising safe choice to go back to work, but regretted it immediately. By the time she sorted out her work affairs, Jake had already moved on with his search for love with the three fabulous women who stayed with him, and he did not allow Ali to return. But it's not too late for Ali now. Admitting that she made one of the biggest mistakes of her life, she has let go of everything this time - her apartment, her job, her stability - to really make a life-changing commitment to put her heart first.

DANCING WITH THE STARS - 1010A" -- SEASON FINALE airs on TUESDAY, MAY 25 (9:00-
11:00 p.m., ET).

Source: ABC Media

ABC Summer TV Schedule

April 7, 2010

ABC ANNOUNCES ITS SUMMER SCHEDULE WITH THE RETURN OF FAVORITES
“THE BACHELORETTE,” “TRUE BEAUTY,” “SHAQ VS,” “WIPEOUT” AND “DATING IN THE DARK,”
ALONG WITH NEW DRAMA SERIES “SCOUNDRELS,” “THE GATES” AND “ROOKIE BLUE,”
NEW ALTERNATIVE SERIES “DOWNFALL” AND “BACHELOR PAD,” AND ABC NEWS SERIES “BOSTON MED,” “PRIMETIME: MIND GAMES,” “HEAD CASES” AND “PRIMETIME: CRIME”


ABC announces its summer schedule, with the return “The Bachelorette” on Monday, May 24 (9:00-11:00 p.m.); “True Beauty” on Monday, May 31 (10:02-11:00 p.m.); a special two-hour blind date-themed episode of “Wipeout” on Tuesday, June 1 (8:00-10:00 p.m.), before the premiere on Tuesday, June 22 (8:00-10:00 p.m.); “Dating in the Dark” on Monday, August 9 (10:00-11:00 p.m.), and “Shaq VS” on Tuesday, August 10 (9:00-10:00 p.m.).

Also premiering are three new scripted series, “The Gates” on Sunday, June 20 (9:00-10:00 p.m.); “Scoundrels” on Sunday, June 20 (10:00-11:00 p.m.); and “Rookie Blue” on Thursday, June 24 (9:00-10:00 p.m.).

New alternative series premiering are “Downfall” on Tuesday, June 29 (9:00-10:00 p.m.), and “Bachelor Pad” on Monday, August 9 (8:00-10:00 p.m.).

ABC News’ series joining the lineup are “Boston Med” on Thursday, June 24 (10:00-11:00 p.m.); “Primetime: Mind Games” on Tuesday, July 20 (10:00-11:00 p.m.); “Head Cases” on Thursday, August 19 (10:00-11:00 p.m.); and “Primetime: Crime” on Tuesday, August 24 (10:00-11:00 p.m.).

“Our strategy is to use the strength of our May programming to launch a strong summer schedule bolstered by three new scripted series,” said Stephen McPherson, president, ABC Entertainment Group. “We’ve got more than 210 hours of original programming this summer, including the return of our hits ‘Wipeout’ and ‘The Bachelorette.’ ABC will be a summer destination for viewers.”

Additional series and specials will be announced at a later date.

Following is a list of upcoming programming in chronological order (all times ET):

THE BACHELORETTE – PREMIERES MONDAY, MAY 24 (9:00-11:00 p.m.), AND MOVES TO ITS REGULAR TIMESLOT (8:00-10:02 p.m.) ON MONDAY, MAY 31 – Ali Fedotowsky has finally decided to risk it all for love. The energetic and charismatic career-oriented woman from San Francisco has re-prioritized her life – and now love comes out on top. She will have her own opportunity to find her soul mate when she stars in the sixth edition of “The Bachelorette.”

Ali, 25, has been a fan favorite from the moment she stepped out of the limo with her sexy raspy voice and a peacock feather to meet Jake Pavelka on the last season of “The Bachelor.” She became the front-runner for Jake’s heart, but instead they found themselves in a heartbreaking situation when she made a gut-wrenching decision to choose a job she loved over the man she loved. Ali made the surprising safe choice to go back to work, but regretted it immediately. By the time she sorted out her work affairs, Jake had already moved on with his search for love with the three fabulous women who stayed with him, and he did not allow Ali to return. But it’s not too late for Ali now. Admitting that she made one of the biggest mistakes of her life, she has let go of everything this time – her apartment, her job, her stability – to really make a life-changing commitment to put her heart first.

Hosted by Chris Harrison, “The Bachelorette” is produced by Next Entertainment in association with Warner Horizon Television. Mike Fleiss and Martin Hilton are the executive producers.

TRUE BEAUTY – PREMIERES MONDAY, MAY 31 (10:02-11:00 p.m.) – Executive producers Tyra Banks (“The Tyra Banks Show,” “America’s Next Top Model”) and Ashton Kutcher (executive producer of “Punk’d” and “Beauty and the Geek”) team up again to put their spin on beauty in Sin City. Five gorgeous women and five hot men will live together at Planet Hollywood Hotel and think they’re competing to become the “Face of Vegas.” Unbeknownst to them, they will be challenged and be put in moral situations to see which contestant really is kind, generous, compassionate and has what it takes to be truly beautiful inside and out.

At the end of eight episodes, one winner will be declared after successfully demonstrating that their inner beauty matches their outer beauty. The winner will receive a $100,000 cash prize and a feature article in People magazine.

Vanessa Minnillo (former host of “ET”) returns as a host and judge, but will only reveal herself to the contestants once they’re eliminated. Carson Kressley (“Queer Eye for the Straight Guy”) will host as well as judge, and put his spin on things in a way only he can. Beth Ostrosky Stern, the wife of self-described “King of All Media” Howard Stern, will be making her broadcast television debut and share her opinions on beauty being a former model herself.

Executive producers of “True Beauty” are Denise Cramsey (ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”), Tyra Banks and Laura Armstrong for Bankable Productions, and Ashton Kutcher, Jason Goldberg, Karey Burke and Rod Aissa for Katalyst Productions. The series is a production of Warner Horizon Television.

WIPEOUT – SPECIAL TWO-HOUR SNEAK PEEK BLIND DATE-THEMED EPISODE TUESDAY, JUNE 1 (8:00-10:00 p.m.), BEFORE THE SERIES PREMIERE TUESDAY, JUNE 22 (8:00-10:00 p.m.) -- ABC’s hit summer series “Wipeout” returns for Season Three. In a special sneak peek “Wipeout Blind Date”-themed episode, love is in the air as 12 single guys and 12 single girls are paired to take on the “Wipeout” course as their first date and a chance to win a grand prize of $100,000. New stunts to be featured this season are the Overdrive, Bruise Ball and Spin Cycle.

Contestants will compete in the world’s largest extreme obstacle course, providing the biggest spills and spectacular wipeouts ever seen on television. “Wipeout” was recently nominated for a Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award and was named Entertainment Weekly’s best Guilty Pleasure Reality TV show of all time.

The third season of “Wipeout” will feature brand new, bigger, better and wilder obstacles, in addition to specially themed episodes including “Ladies Night” and “Family Edition.” Each week, 24 energetic new contestants of all ages, shapes and sizes go head to head through four rounds of demanding but hilarious obstacle courses to win the title of “Wipeout Champion” and the $50,000 grand prize. In the end, only one contestant will be victorious, while everyone else will Wipeout!

The series is hosted by John Anderson (ESPN’s “SportsCenter,”), John Henson (“Talk Soup”) and co-hosted by Jill Wagner. “Wipeout” executive producers are Matt Kunitz (“Fear Factor”) and Scott Larsen. Shye Sutherland, Kevin Wehrenberg, Trice Barto and J. Rupert Thompson are co-executive producers. The series is produced by Endemol USA. David Goldberg is the chairman of Endemol North America

THE GATES – PREMIERES SUNDAY, JUNE 20 (9:00-10:00 p.m.) – Nestled inside a private mountain community are The Gates. The image of perpetual suburban bliss, each street is lined with perfectly manicured homes protected by the massive iron gates, but a dark and delicious secret is buried just beneath the surface of this picturesque neighborhood.

Like most families that settle inside The Gates, the Monahans are unmoored from a complicated life they abandoned in Chicago. Named the new police chief of The Gates, Nick Monahan is expecting a change of pace in this quiet suburb. Nick's wife, Sarah, and their children, Charlie and Dana, are embarking on new adventures as well. Their house is to die for, but amidst the excitement, Sarah is still burdened with the revelation that her husband may not be the man she thought he was. Charlie and Dana will also face some challenges of their own: Along with navigating the trials and tribulations of adolescence, they’ll also face the daunting task of fitting into their new upscale school, where their new friends run in tight-knit packs.

There's something very different about this place, almost... haunting. Unions will be complicated by friends with unnatural influence, insatiable housewives will struggle with ravenous cravings, and teenagers will be cursed with keeping their beastly instincts in check. The Monahans are facing an uncertain fate. Nick is about to be tangled up in a mystery where he will begin to piece together the dark truth about their new home, and the supernatural elements that lurk behind the shadows of The Gates.

“The Gates” stars Frank Grillo as Nick Monohan, Marisol Nichols as Sarah Monahan, Rhona Mitra as Claire Radcliff, Luke Mably as Dylan Radcliff, Travis Caldwell as Charlie Monohan, Skyler Samuels as Andie Bates, Colton Haynes as Brett Crezski, Chandra West as Devon, Victoria Platt as Peg Mueller, Justin Miles as Marcus Jordan and Janina Gavankar as Leigh Turner. “The Gates” is produced by Fox Television Studios. The series is executive-produced by Gina Matthews and written and executive-produced by Grant Scharbo and Richard Hatem.

SCOUNDRELS – PREMIERES SUNDAY, JUNE 20 (10:00-11:00 p.m.) – “Scoundrels” is a one-hour comedy/drama series produced by ABC Studios that focuses on a family of small-time criminals who try to go straight after the father is sent to prison. Virginia Madsen, Independent Spirit Award winner as well as an Academy Award and Golden Globe nominee (“Sideways,” “The Astronaut Farmer”), will play Cheryl West, the mother who must take charge and try to keep her kids on the straight and narrow.

“Scoundrels” also stars David James Elliott as Wolfgang “Wolf” West; Patrick Flueger as Logan West/Calvin “Cal” West; Leven Rambin as Heather West; Vanessa Marano as Hope West and Carlos Bernard as Sergeant Mack.

“Scoundrels” is based on a New Zealand series entitled “Outrageous Fortune.” Lyn Greene & Richard Levine (“Nip/Tuck”) and Francie Calfo serve as executive producers. John Barnett, whose company, South Pacific Pictures, produces the New Zealand series, will also be an executive producer. Co-executive producers will include Michael Larkin, Michael Goldstein, Bruce Cervi and John Lansing.

ROOKIE BLUE – PREMIERES THURSDAY, JUNE 24 (9:00-10:00 p.m.) – A fun, fresh, high-stakes drama with a twist of danger follows the lives of five young, ambitious cops right out of the Academy. From their very first day on the job, these rookies are plunged into the world of big city policing, a world where even the smallest mistake can have life-or-death consequences and serious emotional fall-out. The soul of this close-knit group is 26-year-old perfectionist Andy McNally (Missy Peregrym). Honest to a fault, all Andy has ever wanted to be is “good police.” Her father was a cop, and while he wasn’t the best cop -- or the best father – Andy knows she’ll never find this sense of family, loyalty and excitement in any other job. The series explores the trials, triumphs, competition and camaraderie of Andy and her rookie family -- boyfriends, best friends, mentors and competitors -- who are about to learn that no amount of training can prepare them for life.

“Rookie Blue” stars Missy Peregrym as Andy McNally, Gregory Smith as Dov Epstein, Charlotte Sullivan as Gail Peck, Enuka Okuma as Traci Nash and Travis Milne as Chris Diaz. Tassie Cameron, Ilana Frank, David Wellington, Noreen Halpern and John Morayniss are the executive producers. “Rookie Blue” is produced by Thump Inc. and E1 Entertainment. E1 holds all international rights to the drama series.

ABC NEWS’ BOSTON MED – PREMIERES THURSDAY, JUNE 24 (10:00-11:00 p.m.) – “Boston Med” picks up where the Peabody Award-winning “Hopkins” left off, going even deeper into the lives of caregivers and the cutting edge medical cases they confront inside the walls of America's top hospitals. In this original eight-hour series, the unforgettable stories of doctors, nurses and patients are adeptly woven to give each hour the pace and intensity of a drama. Whether it’s the young resident in crisis doubting that she’s good enough to become a Harvard-trained doctor, or the deployed soldier's pregnant wife praying for a miracle surgery to save her baby, “Boston Med” is sure to touch your heart. Filmed over four months at Massachusetts General, Brigham and Women’s, and Children's Hospital Boston, this powerfully real series breaks new ground in the documentary landscape. Meet the charismatic Hollywood producer before either he or the filmmakers realize that, through a twist of fate, his face will be transplanted onto a Vietnam veteran badly scarred in an accident. The second face transplant performed in this country and the first anywhere to be so extensively filmed, this operation involved two dozen surgeons and up to a hundred additional doctors and nurses. It’s a stunning example of both the high caliber medicine and the unprecedented and unique access captured by the filmmakers in “Boston Med.”

DOWNFALL – PREMIERES TUESDAY, JUNE 29 (9:00-10:00 p.m.) “Downfall” is a unique, high-stakes, adrenaline-charged and larger-than-life game show from Fremantle Media North America (“The Price Is Right,” “Family Feud,” “Let’s Make a Deal”). Played atop a tall building in the middle of a metropolitan landscape, the game has contestants quickly answer a series of trivia questions against the clock. If they play the perfect game, they could leave with a million dollars in cash and prizes. But if not, they could just as easily see their hopes and dreams slip through their fingers and off the side building -- literally.

ABC NEWS’ PRIMETIME: MIND GAMES – PREMIERES TUESDAY, JULY 20 (10:00-11:00 p.m.) – The newest of Primetime’s collection of limited series, this five-episode series takes you into the darkest corners of the human mind and how it can be twisted—real cases where “reality” gives way to fantasy. Discover what it’s like to live a double life. Go inside an interrogation room to see the games police play to get suspects to confess—whether they’re guilty or not. Hear from people who slavishly followed their new age leader into horrifying circumstances. Go inside the minds of kids who kill, and behind the scenes of the real-life War of the Roses—husbands and wives who turn their homes into battlefields.

BACHELOR PAD – PREMIERES MONDAY, AUGUST 9 (8:00-10:00 p.m.) – Twenty of the most unforgettable contestants/suitors from the hit franchise “The Bachelor” will reunite – all under one roof – for the all-new series “Bachelor Pad.” The series, the first “all-star” reunion from previous seasons of “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette,” will feature the participants living together in a house in a competitive reality show. The show will also offer the 20 now-single contestants a “second chance” at finding love, something that didn’t quite work out during their first stint on “The Bachelor” or “The Bachelorette.”

Each week the reunited contestants will compete in challenges, some of which are inspired by incidents from prior seasons. Each two-hour episode will conclude with evictions from the residence. At the end of the six-episode run, one contestant will emerge victorious and will take home a cash prize -- and who knows, maybe even have found “the one.” Participants and further details about the prize will be announced at a later date.

“The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette” host Chris Harrison will host “Bachelor Pad.” Executive producers of “Bachelor Pad” are Mike Fleiss, Martin Hilton and Jay Bienstock. The series is from Next Entertainment in association with Warner Horizon Television.

DATING IN THE DARK – PREMIERES MONDAY, AUGUST 9 (10:00-11:00 p.m.) – Back for its second season, “Dating in the Dark” is the unique reality series that asks the age-old question, “Is Love Blind?” Each week three single men and three single women, all looking for love, will move into a house together, but be totally sequestered from the opposite sex. While they’ll have no chance of seeing each other in the light, they will have the opportunity to date in a completely dark room. Looks will be taken out of the equation as the men and women get to know each other and form bonds in total darkness. After several days of dating in the dark room, the participants will select the one member of the opposite sex that they want to see revealed in the light. For the first time, the participants will see whom they’ve been dating, wooing, kissing and forming bonds with. And after they see each other in the light for the first time, they have to make the difficult decision... do they stay with the person they fell for in the dark, or leave them behind? Hosted by Rossi Moreale.

“Dating in the Dark” is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol holding, along with Talpa Content, the format department of Dutch media entrepreneur John’s de Mol’s company. David Goldberg is the North America Chairman of Endemol USA. The series is executive-produced by Tom Shelly.
SHAQ VS – PREMIERES TUESDAY, AUGUST 10 (9:00-10:00 p.m.) – “Shaq VS” stars Shaquille O’Neal as he faces off against top athletes in their respective fields. In Season One, O’Neal faced off against Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh in beach volleyball, the St. Louis Cardinals’ Albert Pujols in baseball, Oscar de la Hoya in boxing and Michael Phelps in swimming. Episodes in Season Two will not rely solely on sporting matches but will also feature some fun, comedic non-sports competitions such as a spelling bee contest or a dance crew battle, among others. Casting for the second season is currently underway.
“Shaq VS” is produced by Media Rights Capital in association with dick clark productions. Orly Adelson, Will Staeger and Barry Adelman of dick clark productions, Shaquille O’Neal, Scott Messick Perry Rogers and Steve Nash serve as executive producers.

ABC NEWS’ HEAD CASES – PREMIERES THURSDAY, AUGUST 19 (10:00-11:00 p.m.) – A ground-breaking series into how science and technology are enabling us to look inside our heads and affect the processes of the brain. Is it possible to detect a murderous mindset before a child reaches his 7th birthday? Can a permanent electrical pulse, fitted to the brain like a pace-maker, stop people from eating and reduce the obesity epidemic? And is it now possible to reverse the effects of a stroke, so that an individual’s four limbs are practically raised from the dead? Martin Bashir follows neurosurgeon Dr Julian Bailes as he pushes the brain to its limits.

ABC NEWS’ PRIMETIME: CRIME – PREMIERES TUESDAY, AUGUST 24 (10:00-11:00 p.m.) – The series takes viewers inside investigations of breaking crime stories, and those that have been stumping authorities for years.

Source: ABC Media

ABC Season Finale Dates

March 16, ABC TV announced its season finale dates, as well as dates for returning episodes.

All times are EDT

Returning Shows

Thursday, May 7
8:00-9:00 p.m. Ugly Betty

Monday, May 18
9:00-11:00 p.m. The Bachelorette

Season Finales

Wednesday, April 29
8:30-9:00 p.m. Better Off Ted

Thursday, April 30
8:00-8:30 p.m. In the Motherhood
8:30-9:00 p.m. Samantha Who?
10:00-11:00 p.m. Private Practice

Friday, May 1
8:00-9:00 p.m. Wife Swap
9:00-10:00 p.m. Supernanny

Tuesday, May 5
8:30-9:00 p.m. According to Jim

Wednesday, May 6
8:00-9:00 p.m. Scrubs

Sunday, May 10
10:00-11:00 p.m. Brothers and Sisters

Monday, May 11
10:00-11:00 p.m. Castle

Tuesday, May 12
10:00-11:00 p.m. Cupid

Wednesday, May 13
9:00-11:00 p.m. Lost

Thursday, May 14
9:00-11:00 p.m. Grey's Anatomy

Friday, May 15
8:00-10:00 p.m. America's Funniest Home Videos

Sunday, May 17
7:00-9:00 p.m. Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
9:00-11:00 p.m. Desperate Housewives



Tuesday, May 19
9:00-11:00 p.m. Dancing with the Stars

Thursday, May 21
8:00-10:00 p.m. Ugly Betty