Each fall presents a whole slate of new series, some of which are terrific, some of which are terrible, and some of which are simply forgettable (like CBS’ ironically-named procedural Unforgettable). With over two dozen pilots aired in the past six weeks, it can be tough to sort through everything. The first episode isn’t always indicative of a show’s quality, but there simply isn’t time to stick with each show to see if it really gets good. Take it from someone who has sampled as much as he can stomach and set your sights on these shows.
Honorable mentions: Improvement merits commendation, and though early episodes lagged, successive installments of Person of Interest (Thursdays 9pm, CBS), Suburgatory (Wednesdays 8:30pm, ABC), and Boss (Fridays 9pm, Starz) have been considerably better. Emphasizing interesting cases, an enticing lead, and a stellar supporting cast, respectively, these shows deserve continued consideration.
#5: How To Be a Gentleman (No longer airing, CBS)
There are always shows that bite the dust quickly, and some deserve it. This surprisingly entertaining show, which made the most of a thin premise about an odd couple, shouldn’t have died so soon. Kevin Dillon found a great post-Entourage role as manners-challenged trainer Bert, and the show also utilized Mary Lynn Rajskub from 24 and Rhys Darby from Flight of the Conchords to stellar comic effect. Only three episodes aired before CBS pulled the plug (six more were filmed), but they’re all funnier than expected and worth seeing.
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