letterten 2003-04 fall preview

debuts Sunday, Nov 2, 8:30pm

premise from	Based on the British comedy "The Kumars at No. 42," this show blends, comedy, reality and improvisation. Hoping to encourage their young son's dream of being a talk show host, parents build a television studio in their backyard and invite celebrity guests into their home for snacks and a chat. [Fox link]
stars	Al Madrigal, Cheech Marin ("Nash Bridges"), Terri Hoyos, Renee Victor
producers	Wally Wolodarsky, Gavin Polone, Jimmy Mulville, Denise O'Donoghue
studio	Pariah, Hat Trick Productions

opinions
	It's like a Mexican "Life With Bonnie" that blends comedy, reality and improv.
	The clips from the first episode, featuring Denise Richards and Howie Mandel, are full of genuine laughs. The cast has an easy chemistry, which is crucial for the improv that drives this show. It may be a little too dependent of good guest stars to be successful, but it has potential to truly make NBC (which rejected the pilot) look foolish, particularly compared to the peacock network's sitcom choices.

my thoughts on "The Ortegas"
	Most of the season, especially since it's got a good slot. I don't expect it to be a breakout hit, but it should be a moderate one since Cheech Marin is excellent.