Fancast’s Fall TV Preview: Raising The Bar

By Julie Zied
Fancast.com

RAISING THE BAR
Drama
Premieres Monday, Sept. 1 at 10 p.m.
TNT

Stars: Mark Paul Gosselaar (NYPD Blue), Jane Kaczmarek (Malcolm in the Middle), Gloria Reuben (ER), Teddy Sears (Ugly Betty), Currie Graham (Boston Legal), Melissa Sagemiller (Boston Sleeper Cell), J. August Richards (Conviction), Jonathan Scarfe (Into The West)

What’s It All About: A group of former law school chums reunite in court, with some as public defenders (Gosselaar), and others as prosecutors (Sagemiller), all the while butting heads with each other and their ball-busting presiding judge (Kaczmarek).

Quote: “I have to say, having done a television show for many years with children, I am so happy to be with grownups on this one. It makes the chitchat between scenes so much more interesting. This has just been an absolute delight. The cast members on this and the storylines and being allowed to really grow and develop, create a character has just been delightful on this show. I mean, Steven gives us a really lovely, loose leash to play, and we’ve all been having a great time.” – Jane Kaczmarek talking about her experience on the show.

Preview: Seems like Jerry (Gosselaar) may have lost his sense of humor on the job in this clip.

Why You Should Watch: Two words: Steven Bochco. The silver-haired 10-time Emmy Award-winning producer has consistently cranked out hits every decade since the 70’s, what with Hill Street Blues, Doogie Howser, M.D., L.A. Law, and that little show in the 90’s called NYPD Blue. And let’s face it: the guy - just like TNT’s motto - knows drama.

Odds: (As predicted by Vegas Odds-Maker Johnny Avello, Executive Director of Race & Sports - Wynn Las Vegas)

It’ll Evaporate First This Season: 18 to 1

It’ll Live To See A Second Season: 16 to 1

It’ll Become A Mega-Hit: 60 to 1

Johnny’s Verdict: “Steven Bochco is it’s only plus.”