No one had any idea that a procedural crime investigation show (debuting on a Friday, no less) and a wacky reality show could change the fortunes of the entire network. It did and then some.CBS now regularly challenges NBC's decades-long dominance of Thursday nights with its lineup of reality and investigation. Last season, "Without A Trace" gave "ER" its first serious challenge ever. Great thing for CBS, probably an excellent thing creatively for the sometimes creatively-wandering "ER."
CBS brings five new dramas to this year's party along with only one new sitcom. "Becker" and "Hack" both got last minute reprieves from the cancellation bin. "Navy NCIS" is their near sure-thing, although as I have gathered data for this preview (again, without reading anyone else opinions, just factual show information), I've come to see that all five CBS dramas could hit decently. "The Handler" should be a hit with the 18-49 demo. "The Brotherhood of Poland, N.H." will fit that somewhat quirky slot in people's viewing lives and "Cold Case" will appeal to those who have just finished the 82,382th edition of "60 Minutes." The only one that might present issues, partly due to slotting is "Joan of Arcadia."
The lone sitcom on the sked, "Two and a Half Men" is almost a lock regardless of the show. Ah, the hammock. I expect it to be funny, if not a little overdone.
CBS is poised very well for this season. Last year they claimed a total viewers victory (NBC took 18-49) and I believe they could do it again and lower their demo a little more in the process.
