Planet MADtv

The End of an Era: MADtv Has Been Cancelled

tvmanismadformad — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 12:28:24 -0800

Well if you have been tuning into the forum the past few days you all most likely have heard the news that Fox is canceling MADtv. Many of us knew that this day was coming, although it doesn't make it any easier to swallow. For years the rumour mill surrounding MADtv's fate have been churning, and the show has for the past 2 seasons narrowly escaped cancelltion. When season 13 aired many thought that it was the end, but with the upcoming election, Fox decided to give the show one last chance, and even a new setting, but it was not to be. The reason for the canceling as told by Fox is due to economic reasons, which roughly means that the show was becoming too expensive to produce.

Though the show is now on borrowed time on FOX, this may not be the end for our favourite sketch show. QDE Boss and MADtv Executive Producer David Salzman, has released statements stating that he wants to shop the show around to another network and see if there is any interest. Salzman states "We've had a number of networks inquire as to whether the show was coming off FOX and saying that they'd be interested. We have not started to talk to them yet, but now is the time to begin those conversations. I think we have real prospects, but you never know, especially given the economy."

In order to shop the show around Salzman is trying to find some ways to cut costs. Salzman also credits Fox for announcing the cancellation of the show now, and not in May as it gives the show some time to look for a new home. So by this news MADtv may not be dead just yet, it may just be moving to a new home.

The early announcement also means that it will make it possible for the show to go out with a bang. Salzman states "This will give us a proper sendoff, a chance to promote the finale and bring back old cast members". The reruns on Comedy Central will also be coming to an end at the end of this year - which Salzman thinks could be a blessing if a network were to express interest in both new episodes and the shows extensive back-catalogue, or just one of the options.

For 14 years MADtv has been a staple on Saturday nights. In a world that was solely dominated by one sketch show (Saturday Night Live) MADtv showed the world that there is an alternative. Many networks had tried to face the big giant, but always fell short, most of the times with the shows not getting past a first season. MADtv not only passed it's first season, it went the distance, maintaining a a core audience for 14 years which is a tremendous feat for a show that has recieved minimal promotion from its network, continual budget cuts and format changes. The day when MADtv goes off the air will be a big loss for the television community, as it will be the end of one of televisions greatest institutions.

Parker Goes Green For Broadway

Dartanian — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 22:39:40 -0800

In a not-so-surprising turn of events, Nicole Parker -- whose 6 year tenure on MADtv will shortly be coming to an end -- has landed herself a once in a lifetime role. And it's not on television.

On January 13th 2009, Nicole will be debuting her impression of a well known, green skinned young witch named Elphaba in the Broadway production of Gregory Maguires "Wicked". For those of you unfamiliar with the show, it's basically one of the greatest and most popular musical productions of all time and is shown all over the world. The Broadway show is the original, and apparently greatest, of all its incarnations. So great that you need to book tickets 6 months in advance.

Those of us who have watched Nicole's career blossom over the past 6 years should have seen subtle hints as to where her career was ultimately headed, the role that she so rightly deserves, and a role that millions of girls all over the world would kill for. Lets look at the signs, shall we?

1) Prior to MADtv, she established a musical theatre company called Waterwell Production.
2) Seasons 9 and 10 of MADtv saw frequent and regular parodies of the Wizard of Oz, the story that inspired the author of Wicked to pen his novel about the life and times of the Wicked Witch of the West.
3) Nicole's recent foray into Broadway, in the short-lived "Fame Becomes Me" was a clue that she was dipping her toes in the Broadway pond.
4) And finally, prior to Parker-Insider Zesty's announcement that Nicole was joining the show, there was the youtube video circulating of Nicole as Sarah Palin performing a parody of the song "Defying Gravity".

Nicole's blatently obvious musical genius and all the factors that tie into this role make me think that she was destined to play the Wicked Witch. And just so everyone knows, Elphaba is the star of Wicked - the Broadway show is ALL ABOUT HER. So Nicole is going to be the STAR of the biggest show on Broadway. This is an amazing recognition of her talent, and there is no doubt in my mind that any fans she is yet to convert will be easily be swayed by the intoxicating beauty of her voice. Let's all take this moment to congratulate Nicole on all the success she has had thus far, all the success that is no doubt waiting for her in years to come, and finally, since she will in some form have the contents of this thread relayed to her...

thank her for providing us with 6 years of incredible laughs, astounding impressions and amazing musical performances on MADtv.

As a person who has been an unfaltering fans for the last 6 years, all I can say is Nicole, you are truly one of a kind. You will be sorely missed.

Season 14 Premiere Information - Who's Gonna Play the New Prez?

Dartanian — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 07:54:09 -0700

Okay, so that title is a little misleading... although, one of the two men these impressions are of will be hailed as the new President of the United States in a few months.

With the season 14 premiere a mere few weeks away, what better time to give you the first piece of information we have been made aware of regarding what you can expect to see? While most of us have grown used to Keegan Michael Key's Barack Obama and Nicole Parker's Hilary Clinton impressions over the last two years, with Hilary now out of the running, its time for the show to introduce an impression of Republican candidate John McCain to feature in the shows political satire.

In true MADtv tradition, the show is taking a big risk by casting someone none of us expected would ever be cast for the role. Perhaps it is a response to the controversial casting of Fred Armisen as Obama on SNL, perhaps he was just the best suited person for the job, perhaps it was neither of these things... but I can now reveal to you that none other than Bobby Lee will be debuting his John McCain impression in episode #1401. Also making their first mark in the presidential stakes will be Arden Myrin's Nancy McCain and Erica Ash's Michelle Obama impression.

Here's what FOX's official release has to say about the premiere:

MADtv returns for a 14th season of off-the-wall humor and side-splitting laughs. Keegan-Michael Key and Erica Ash are "Barack and Michelle Obama" and they join Bobby Lee and Arden Myrin as "John and Cindy McCain" on a spoof of SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE: PRESIDENTIAL EDITION. The McCains try to impress the judges with their waltz as the Obamas try to win votes with their hip-hop number on the season premiere episode of MADtv airing Saturday, Sept. 13.

Just to remind you all, the new cast of regulars includes returning favorites Crista Flanagan, Keegan Michael Key, Bobby Lee, Arden Myrin, Nicole Parker and Johnny Sanchez. They will be joined by Matt Braunger and new featured players Erica Ash, Eric Price and Lauren Pritchard. The season premiere is on September 13th this year, and the show will, hopefully, be taking a step back towards the favored format by being shot, in part, in a brand new theatre. So those of you who were left disappointed by season 13, give this new season a chance before you pull the plug completely. You may be pleasantly surprised!

Rapid-Fire Appearances - August 20th, 2008

mizzimad — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 22:43:04 -0700

Just when you thought that "Rapid-Fire Appearances" was down for the count, it gets up off the mat and starts pinning down "MADtv" cast members left and right. The scandalous, soy milk-fueled orgy that ensues is this recurring Front Page News feature, for which virgins may require a brief explanation. Basically, "Rapid-Fire Appearances" cuts through most of the journalistic fluff in order to bring you several of the latest television and film appearances by "MADtv" cast members and alumni. In other words, if you like plain folks' talk without all that big-city, fancy-schmancy language to clutter things up, then read on, my couch-spud friend. Shoot fire, what are we waiting for, partner? Let's fire up this dadgum rodeo!

If you need a reason to watch Eddie Murphy's latest comedy film, Meet Dave (released on July 11th), then perhaps an appearance by "mustachioed grunt" Pat Kilbane will whet your appetite. As this movie review informs us, Pat's character, a crew member from the planet Nil -- oh, the easy jokes I'm suppressing! -- apparently "turns gay" after watching A Chorus Line. He and the film's other main characters, including Eddie's, are minute explorers from Nil. Their transgalactic mission is to steal Earth's natural resources so that they can save their tennis ball of a planet. At any rate, if the idea of stereotypical humor at Pat's expense seems endlessly appealing to you, then be sure to catch Meet Dave before theaters render it, well, nil. Special thanks go to MADfan2004 for bringing Pat's literally and figuratively miniature role to our attention.

While you are scanning the theaters for Pat's movie, go check out Bobby Lee in Pineapple Express. Yeah, yeah, I can hear your moans and groans already, you sad sacks. However, as this review makes clear, Bobby's performance may well be worth checking out. The film itself centers around a couple of stoners (Seth Rogen and James Franco) who unwittingly find themselves in the middle of a drug war. Bobby's character, who just so happens to be named Bobby himself (so much for originality), shows up toward the movie's climax as an assassin from an Asian gang. According to the review, his performance is -- dare I say it? -- hilarious. Obviously, you will have to see the movie in order to judge for yourself. Pineapple Express opened in theaters on August 6th, so you should still have time to catch it before it wastes away into the hallucinogenic land of DVD. If you want a glimpse of what I assume is a fully clothed Bobby, then take advantage of this rare opportunity while you still can. You'll be so wasted, dudes. Special thanks go to nick for bringing this one to our attention.

Are you looking for some Keegan-Michael Key TV comedy that has nothing to do with "MADtv" itself? Then get ready to feast on some "Chocolate News"! According to the information found here, the series will star David Alan Grier in a fake news program that will serve up the news from an African-American perspective. Keegan himself is scheduled to play Woodsy in at least one episode. If we assume that Keegan's character will be a hit and that "MADtv" will permit him a little moonlighting, then we may be fortunate enough to catch him on several other "Chocolate News" episodes. Still, if you know the adage regarding assumptions, then you know that a two-microsecond cameo is the more likely scenario. Whatever the case may prove to be, keep a brown eye open for Keegan when "Chocolate News" premieres October 15th on Comedy Central.

Credit Mike Judge for continuing to keep David Herman gainfully employed. The good word -- or should I say "goode word"? -- from Zap2it is that a new Mike Judge animated series, "The Goode Family," will contend for midseason placement on ABC. If the series makes the cut, then expect David to voice Ubuntu Goode, just one member of an environmentally, politically, and socially aware family. Naturally, the Goodes' efforts often meet with hilarious consequences; after all, who could possibly pass up an opportunity to make fun of damn, dirty hippies? Therefore, if you would like a cartoon glimpse into my college days -- don't be hating, you capitalistic fascists! -- then "The Goode Family" might just do you some, well, good.

Those who were wisely betting that the ubiquitous name Orlando Jones would pop up somewhere in this "RFA" edition may now collect. The Big O now makes his omnipotent presence known in Cirque du Freak. If you were also betting that I would provide you with a helpful link to an article discussing this fantasy film, then congratulations on your early retirements, you capitalistic fascists:

"CIRQUE DU FREAK is about a young boy named Darren Shan, who, after attending an illegal freak show with his best friend, decides to become a vampire's assistant in order to save his best friend's life. Forced to leave his home and family forever, Darren joins the freak show, where he meets a host of bizarre creatures and finds himself at the center of a war between the vampires and a rival clan."

Although I do not know exactly how Orlando's Alexander Ribs, fits into this craziness, I can confirm my inability to say his character's name out loud without experiencing fits of laughter. (I'm strange like that.) Expect Cirque du Freak to show its fangs in theaters some time in 2008.

Can Josh Meyers figure out How to Make Love to a Woman? With some help from silicone goddess Jenna Jameson, who plays her silicone self in this indie romantic comedy, Josh's character (Andy) will almost certainly find the answer. Once again, I find myself wondering if I should sue the scriptwriters for copyright infringement. After all, Andy's inability to satisfy his girlfriend (hence, the need for Jenna's advice) is certainly a swiped reference from my never-to-be-published autobiography -- that is, minus the never-to-be-realized opportunity to investigate Jenna's oversized fun bags up-close. Well, while I contemplate my potential lawsuit, read this article for more information on How to Make Love to a Woman, which is slated to bounce into theaters before year's end.

Are you an Andrew Bowen fan who has vowed to jump headfirst off a skyscraper if he appears in one more frigging TV commercial? Then perhaps Andrew's lead role in the indie thriller Conjurer will cause you to think twice about that free fall into cement. As luck would have it, there is even an official site for this movie, which has already won an award for best horror film at the Action on Film International Film Festival. (Stick that in your Oscar and smoke it.) Andrew's character, Shawn Burnett, moves into a haunted rural farmhouse with his wife, all the while dealing with a "ghostly presence" that "manifests itself in increasingly deadly ways" -- but enough about Andrew's Keanu Reeves impression. (Don't applaud, folks; just throw credit cards.) Seriously, though, Conjurer looks quite promising, as a glimpse at the trailer (available on the aforementioned site) will show. "Oh, it's just a lead role in an indie film," you say. Okay, hot shots, what have you ever starred in? Uh-huh, I'll tell you what, you cynical, capitalistic fascists: if you are lucky enough to catch this film when it hits theaters before year's end, then see if you can do any better. Or you can just ignore my pretend insult and see the film anyway.

Are you one of the myriad Nicole Randall Johnson fans who have been wondering what your favorite Darrell and Ka-Son portrayer is up to these days? You can find out on November 14th when the ironically titled comedy film Role Models is released to theaters. The film's plot, as detailed in this article, involves two salesmen (played by Paul Rudd and Seann William Scott) who trash a company truck while under the influence of energy drinks, of all things. (Ah, those were the days!) To avoid prison time, the two "role models" agree to join a mentorship program, which turns out to be almost as much of a headache as the lingering possibility of hard time. Somewhere in the middle of all this havoc, NRJ herself pops up in the role of Karen. Although I cannot find any information on her character, I am inclined to believe that she might be one of the "annoying do-gooders" from the mentoring program. It's just a hunch, though; so do not quote me on that. Anyway, if you find yourself needing a Nicole Randall Johnson fix, then consider Role Models your "dealer." You'll be so wasted, dudes. Oh, never mind -- I've already used up that brilliant joke.

Finally, if your lifelong dream is to see "MADtv" alumni Kathryn Fiore and Daniele Gaither in the same movie, then consider your low-expectation-riddled existence fulfilled after viewing the thriller Necessary Evil. Seriously, though, as this plot synopsis indicates, Kathryn's role of Deborah Fielding is what we in the news business would refer to as a "biggie":

"Locked inside Edgewater Psychiatric Institute is a deep, dark secret. Deborah Fielding, budding investigative journalist, holds the key.

Nothing can prepare her for the Pandora's box she's about to open.

Following a trail of eyewitnesses, missing persons, and anonymous tips, Deborah will stop at nothing to uncover the truth, even if it means confronting the demons from her past.

Deborah's journey plunges her into a supernatural spider web of intrigue and corruption leading to the highest echelons of power."

Daniele's character, Gail, appears to be far less significant than Karen's, although her fans may consider the opportunity to see her in anything post-"MADtv" reason enough to check out Necessary Evil. I cannot say that I share your enthusiasm, though. Sorry, but with all due respect to the lovely Ms. Dani, if I'm shelling out eight bucks to see one of these two ladies on the big screen, then Blondie gets my vote and fantasy lap dance every time. At any rate, if your upcoming New Year's Eve plans are as uneventful as mine, then you may want to hunt down this "evil" movie when it makes its scheduled Decemeber 31st debut in theaters.

At long last, we have reached the end of this long, bumpy road of "Rapid-Fire Appearances." Even though the wheels on our used jalopy are worse for the wear, we take comfort in knowing that several "MADtv" cast members and alumni will be entertaining us in the months to come. Until we enlighten and frighten you again, you capitalistic fascists -- thought I was done with that slur, huh? -- remember to stay tuned for more "Rapid-Fire Appearances"!

Yippee, "MADtv" Is on the WB!

mizzimad — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 21:50:12 -0700

After nearly a month of biting our nails, drinking ourselves into oblivion with Ovaltine, and popping Prozac as though it were candy, we can at least proclaim a truth that, at least until now, was harder to pin down than a newborn infant undergoing a diaper change. According to this article, episodes of "MADtv" will soon be available on the new WB website, which is currently available in beta form. The official site, which is scheduled to launch on Wednesday, August 27th, will feature a combination of new shows and old broadcast series, among the latter our cherished sketch comedy show. Right now, we cannot confirm either the date when "MADtv" will begin streaming on the site or the particular seasons that will air once it does -- only that the series will indeed be featured. We also are not presently at liberty to confirm when or if "MADtv" will end its Comedy Central run. Despite rumors that reruns would no longer air on the network after August, the current Comedy Central schedule indicates that episodes will evidently continue to be shown in September. An educated hunch, however, would lead one to conclude that "MADtv" reruns will likely end their syndicated CC run before the network's new fall season launches. After all, why would the WB take over the syndication rights if such were not the case? Even so, until the winds of confirmation blow their wanton debris into our Twinkie-stuffed faces, everything except the news indicated by this thread's title is presently mired in speculation. Ah, ambiguity, how I love thee!

We should further note that "MADtv," as well as the other series to be carried on the WB site, will be shown as small-screen "skeins." Because I would likely embarrass myself beyond even my own norm if I were to try to define exactly what a skein is, I will leave that discussion to the more technologically astute among you. I do, however, take this information to mean that we will not be given the option to maximize our screens when we view these "MADtv" episodes. Well, as long as we do not need Hubble Space Telescopes to enjoy them, I suppose we should refrain from bitching and moaning too much. At any rate, the show's fans may now cease their vandalism, drive-by shootings of Quincy Jones' mansion, and maniacal screams of "Nicole Parker or die!" Our legendary Alfred E. Neuman-inspired sketch-fest will soon be in good hands on the new WB site.

UPDATE (08/19): Sadly, it appears that the "MADtv" episodes on the WB site will be available to U.S. fans only. Anyone who tries to access the site from outside the United States will receive a rather crass message: "You gotta WB in the USA to roll with us." Nice, huh? In other words, if you are not in the U.S., then you will not have access to "MADtv" on the WB. Just when I think I have good news for everyone, along comes the Grim Reaper with his bag of doom. Sorry, folks.

UPDATE (08/27): The WB has now gone live, and "MADtv" is indeed available on the site. So far, only Season 12 is available; however, I doubt that many of the show's current fans will complain too much about that. At the time of this writing, Comedy Central is still airing "MADtv"; and according to the network's current schedule, it will continue to do so until at least September 16th.

Nicole Sullivan's Seventeen Saturdays of Superheroes

mizzimad — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 14:58:34 -0700

A day without Nicole Sullivan news is like a day without sunshine -- a notion which lends further credence to my theory that I am indeed a human bottle of talcum powder. For this journalistic foray into the golden lady's equally golden world, we will investigate a new animated series, an upcoming film, and another film which somehow eluded my watchful eye the first time around. (And yes, the requisite hairshirt and wooden paddle-inflicted bruises on my skull provide ample evidence of my shame on that last one.) If you can handle the excitement, then you are in the wrong place, my Sullivan-bashing friend. If, on the other hand, the sheer anticipation of this Nicole news finds you with froth on your upper lip, then read on, fellow mad dog. Just be warned that Nicole's future Oscar or Emmy will likely not come her way as a result of any of the following.

First, we look into Nicole's new animated series, "The Secret Saturdays," which is scheduled to premiere this fall on the Cartoon Network. Although Nicole needs another animated series about as badly as she needs toothpicks through her baby blues, we might as well take a peek at her latest dip into the cartoon pool (easily unsnappable bikini top unfortunately not included):

"In the new comedy-action series created by Jay Stephens; Doc, Drew and Zak Saturday are a family of world-saving adventure scientists called The Secret Saturdays. They live in a hidden base and are part of a network of scientists who protect against all of the underlying evil in world. To the Saturdays, ordinary folk-tales aren't just legends, but real-life mysteries and adventures. Traveling from the hot Gobi Desert to the icy Marianas Trench, they explore ancient temples and bottomless caves and tangle with twisted villains, including the masked madman V.V. Argost and his half-human/half-giant spider.

But aside from the adventures that span the globe, at the end of the day the Saturdays, along with their hyper exotic pets Fiskerton Komodo and Zon, are just a warm, loving family getting through everyday growing pains and squabbles."

Fie, V.V. Argost, thou wretched friend, you will not soon get away with your evil arachnid schemes! Nicole's Drew Saturday (the character she voices in "Secret Saturdays") will avenge thee with her righteous Raid and superstitious baloney. While I continue to shake my fists in mock defiance, I will inform you that twenty-six episodes of this fun-filled fantasy fest are slated to air this fall. Even though the ultimate Nicole Sullivan fantasy fest would obviously consist of none of these things, "The Secret Saturdays" will suffice for those who seek a G-rated equivalent. Anyone who falls into the latter category has my deepest sympathies.

Next on the Nicole agenda, we find out what it is like to be Seventeen Again. Granted, some of us would have to rewind the clock about twenty-two years or so; but that is a story for another time. As far as the movie itself is concerned, the adult incarnation of the guy who wishes to rewrite his life is portrayed by Matthew Perry, a name that will make "Friends" fans rejoice and will inspire horror in those with good taste. Meanwhile, Zac Efron will give the performance of a lifetime as the protagonist's seventeen-year-old incarnation. How does Nicole herself fit into this time travel? Your clueless guess is as good as mine, for no character description appears to be available at this time. Still, we have until February 20th, 2009, to find out since Seventeen Again will not debut in theaters until that date. Perhaps we will know by then whether an ill-timed blink or snore will cause a moviegoer to miss Nicole's part.

Finally, here is one from the "how in the hell did I miss Nicole's role in this the first time around" files: Superhero Movie. Unfortunately, I found a duplicate entry in the "why in the hell should anyone care" files; nonetheless, in case anyone does care, I am electing to see this through. This comedy film (a term used to identify genre, not laughter content) uses Spider-Man as its main target -- and yes, I am finding it nearly impossible to resist the inevitable reference to climbing the walls. According to the review found here, Nicole's Julia Riker character in Superhero Movie is but a wasted cameo; hence, my overwhelming desire to end this paragraph as soon as possible. Although the film itself has been out of theaters for a while now, those who missed it the first time around are in luck. The Superhero Movie came out on DVD about a month ago, and it includes all of the requisite bonus features: an alternate ending, deleted scenes, a tutorial on the "art of spoofing" (an art certainly best learned elsewhere), and a chance to meet the cast. I am guessing, however, that your chances to see Nicole herself in that final segment are about as good as those of your finding the movie hilarious in the first place. Still, if you are looking for a decorative coaster, then Superhero Movie might just fit the bill.

We Nicole Sullivan fans cannot help shedding a tear or two thousand as we witness the "MADtv" alum's rapid ascent to A-list status. What new depths will our beloved blonde comedienne be forced to plummet to in the near future as she continues that ascent? Furthermore, how can one plummet and ascend at the same time? The solutions to these and other quandaries are certainly not too far away.

UPDATE (09/02): According to this article, "The Secret Saturdays" will make its Cartoon Network series premiere on Friday, October 3rd, at 8:00pm EST. Get the Jiffy Pop ready as television history is made.

Artie Lange News: Roast Out, Rehab In

mizzimad — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 21:29:59 -0700

So far, 2008 has been anything but a banner year for "MADtv" alum Artie Lange. According to this article, the latest news on the troubled comedian is that he has admitted himself into an intensive outpatient rehab program. The news seems hardly surprising when one considers the numerous drug, alcohol, and weight problems that Artie has encountered over the years. Furthermore, the entry into rehab makes sense in light of several recent canceled gigs, including some stand-up shows that were scheduled for this weekend. Perhaps the most unfortunate cancellation, however, is his scheduled apperance at the Comedy Central roast of comedian Bob Saget. Alas, Artie Lange fans can now only imagine the numerous (forgive me) artful putdowns that he must have had in store for the former "Full House" star. At least one golden Artie punchline would have surely involved Bob's former co-stars Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, who, according to this article, were apparently the targets of several crude sexual jokes when the roast was taped this past Sunday night (August 2nd). Artie, the pedophilic puns were right there for you, my friend! Oh well.

As was hinted previously, Artie's list of things he would like to forget about 2008 certainly does not begin with his current rehab stint. You will recall his much-publicized breakdown in April on "Howard Stern," during which he physically assaulted his personal assistant and announced his departure from the show. Although a contrite Artie Lange returned to "Howard Stern" shortly thereafter, it was obvious that the man was simply postponing the inevitable. Now one hopes that the road to recovery can begin in earnest for our beloved alum. Artie, we at Planet MADtv wish you all the best in your efforts to conquer your demons. Those Olsen twin one-liners will be there waiting for you when you return. The Olsen twins themselves? Not likely -- but logic tells me that's probably not such a bad thing anyway. Get well soon, Artie!

MADtv Cast Members Nominated for ALMA Awards

Dartanian — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 11:31:21 -0700

Rookie cast member Johnny Sanchez and former featured player and youtube sensation Anjelah Johnson have both been nominated for ALMA Awards for the 2008 ceremony.

The ALMA awards were created in 1995 in order to promote fair, accurate, and balanced portrayals of Latinos in the entertainment industry. The show was named "ALMA" (Spanish for "spirit" or "soul") which represents the determined spirit of the Latino people in an effort to reflect the spirit as well as the scope of the awards program.

Anjelah is in contention for the title of Outstanding Female in a Television Comedy Series, and will compete against Selena Gomez (Wizards of Waverly Place), Judy Reyes (Scrubs), Nadine Velazquez (My Name Is Earl), Persia White (Girlfriends) for the honor. Similarly, Johnny is up for Outstanding Male in a Television Comedy Series, and will be competing against Carlos Mencia (Mind of Mencia), Charlie Sheen (Two and a Half Men), Oscar Nunez (The Office), Jake T. Austin (Wizards of Waverly Place) and Joshua Gomez (Chuck).

This marks the first time a MADtv cast member (let alone two) has been nominated for an ALMA award, which isn't surprising when you think of the brief periods during seasons 5-8 when latino cast members Nelson Ascensio and Jill-Michele Melean graced our screens. The push by the show runners to give a voice to the hispanic community in season 13 has seen mixed results (praise for Anjelah, disappointment in Johnny), but their efforts have been recognised, and all involved should be commended for the achievement of being nominated.

The Alma Awards will be hosted by Eva Longoria Parker, and will screen on Friday September 12th, 8/7c on ABC.

The Gillian Vigman Quadruple-Feature

mizzimad — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 12:51:40 -0700

After the life-changing experience of "The Andrew Daly Quadruple-Feature," you surely had to be saying to yourselves, "Gee, the only thing that could possibly top that monumental feat of journalism would be a similar quadruple-feature for a Season 9 'MADtv' featured player." Well, dear readers, Armageddon has officially arrived in the form of a film foursome devoted to the lovely Gillian Vigman. Oh, certainly you remember Gillian's numerous brilliant contributions to the legendary ninth season of our cherished sketch comedy series. As I wrack the deepest recesses of my upstairs grey matter to recall some of those golden moments, enjoy your Gillian Vigman quadruple-feature. Burned popcorn and eight-legged Raisinettes are not included.

The most logical place to begin our cinematic Gillian journey is Step Brothers, which, as fate would have it, is debuting in theaters today (July 25th). The comedy film stars John C. Reilly and "Saturday Night Live" alum Will Ferrell as two spoiled, immature wastes of oxygen who become stepbrothers after their single parents marry. Of course, the two reluctant siblings initially hate each other but later become best friends. In other words, if you are one of the myriad moviegoers who will secretly be wishing for Will Ferrell's strangulation only three frames into the film, then I am afraid that will be sorely disappointed. For what it's worth (not much, I'm guessing), Gillian's minor role as a frustrated job interviewer is actually rather funny. If you want to see this bit and subsequently save yourself eight moviegoing bucks, then go here to check out a trailer of Step Brothers. You and your wallet will be forever thankful that you did. At any rate, special thanks go to tvmanismadformad for bringing Gillian's apperance in this masterpiece to our attention.

If you are looking for a more substantial Gillian fix, then perhaps They Came from Upstairs will be more to your liking. From the information located in this article, we learn that this adventure/comedy stars Ashley Tisdale as one of a group of teenagers who come together to defend their Maine vacation home from an alien invasion, which (predictably enough) occurs upstairs. Gillian will play Tisdale's mother, Nina Pearson, who, like any responsible mother, will undoubtedly lend her wholehearted support to this mission. After all, where your child's future is concerned, nothing else screams admission to Stanford quite like the ability to fight off extraterrestrials who have far too much time on their hands. In keeping with the "Saturday Night Live" theme, I suppose I should also mention that Gillian will share Upstairs screen time with not one, but two "SNL" stalwarts: Kevin Nealon and Tim Meadows. (Indeed, why should we deny ourselves yet another opportunity to reinforce the marketplace dominance of "SNL" over "MADtv"?) Anyway, if all of this zaniness sounds even remotely appealing, then be on the lookout for They Came from Upstairs as it invades theaters in 2009.

The final two films in our Gillian Vigman quadruple-feature seem hardly worth mentioning since one can easily tell from the character descriptions that they are probably only a half-step above extras in terms of importance. For the sake of completion, however, I suppose I should include them. Besides, if I did not mention them, then I would be defeating the purposes of a post in which I promise to discuss four films, now, would I not? Thus, let us discuss.

Some time in 2008, The Slammin' Salmon will be swimming upstream and laying eggs at a theater near you. Here, you can find a description of the plot, which makes Roadhouse seem like Citizen Kane by comparison:

"The Broken Lizard troupe is back with The Slammin' Salmon, a comedy revolving around a restaurant whose former heavyweight champion owner, Cleon Salmon (Michael Clarke Duncan), sets his waitstaff against each other in a competition to see who can win the most tips, with the winner taking home a cash prize and the lowest earner winning a beatdown from the champ. Troupe member Kevin Heffernan makes his directorial debut with the picture, taking over the reigns from Jay Chandrasekhar, who directed all of Lizard's films up till this point."

Gillian offers up yet another Oscar bid as an "amorous woman," a character description which is code for "I hope this is over soon so that I can get back to finding real work as an actor." Of course, if she turns out to be the waiter who gets to beat the living tar out of the loser, then maybe her appearance in Salmon will be worth the trouble after all. Still, I advise you not to hold your breath, at least not until this comedy film hits theaters so that you can see for yourselves. Aw, whom am I kidding? Just wait for the DVD, assuming there will be one.

We wrap up our Gillian Vigman quadruple-feature with a comedy movie that is All about Steve. With a plot that makes Hope Floats seem like, well, Citizen Kane by comparison, the film features Sandra Bullock as an eccentric crossword puzzle junkie who is determined to prove to a CNN cameraman that he and she are meant to be together. In the real world, we call this stalking; in the comedy world, though, it is a surefire formula for success among the Lifetime Network crowd. Gillian, for her part (pardon the pun), hits another one out of the park as a "miscellaneous news reporter," thereby cementing her status as an A-list actor. (Or should that read, "A-listing her status as cement"?) If you want to read more about All about Steve before it hits theaters in 2009, then this article should tell you all that anyone but gossipy soccer moms could possibly want to know.

Please exit the Planet MADtv Cheap Seats Theater in an orderly fashion, as this concludes our Gillian Vigman quadruple-feature. When these films come to real theaters near you, go support Gillian's efforts in them if you are feeling extremely generous. At least you know that you will be getting a generous helping of eye candy to go with your eight-legged Raisinettes.

The Andrew Daly Quadruple-Feature

mizzimad — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 21:42:45 -0700

At the start of 2008, you could have made a killing via Ladbrokes if you had bet that Andrew Daly would become perhaps the most sought-after "MADtv" alum in motion pictures this year. Who, besides family members, close friends, and household pets, saw this one coming? Well, brethren, get ready for scoops on not one, not two, not three, but four movies that feature Mr. Daly. If your salivary glands are not already wet with anticipation, then you are either clinically dead or just really smart. Anyway, let us get this show -- rather, these shows -- on the road.

We begin with perhaps the most notable of the four films (at least in terms of theatrical release), The Informant, which is not scheduled to swarm into theaters until March 2009. The dramatic film's plot, based on a true story, involves a whistle blower (Matt Damon) who wears a wire and steadily builds a federal case against a major corporation that fixes the price of the food additive lysine. Price fixing and lysine? I smell Oscar! While The Informant may be the biggest of the Andrew Daly films that will be coming out, suffice it to say that Andrew's role in it seems to anything but big. In fact, from what we can gather (not much), his character does not even have the dignity of a name. (Ah, the post-"MADtv" plight of a third-tier cast member!) At any rate, if you want to read more about The Informant, then this article is sure to, uh, inform you. Keep some tomatoes in those buckets, folks; the bad jokes are just getting started.

Next, we catch up with Andrew as he thumbs through The Post Grad Survival Guide. As expected, his character, Lloyd Hastings, plays tenth banana in a plot (found here) that is straight out of the Bush era handbook:

"Eternal optimist Ryden Malby (Alexis Bledel) has the most brutal of wake-up calls when she graduates from college and can't find a job, forcing her back home to live with her oddball family. Frustrated and confused about how her life is supposed to turn out, she soon realizes that her longtime platonic best friend is the only one who makes everything in her crazy life make sense."

Will Andrew's character (not the "platonic best friend," we rightly assume) get more than three milliseconds of air time in Guide? Will movie theaters be able to contain the hordes of maniacal, gun-toting Andrew Daly fans who simply will not rest until they have witnessed the aforesaid three milliseconds of brilliance? The answers to these questions and more will be revealed some time in 2009, when the comedy film makes its highly anticipated debut.

The third of Andrew's cinematic wonders up for discussion is She's Out of My League. While I try to decide if this comedy/romance is my biopic or just a home movie that somehow found its way into director Jim Field Smith's grubby paws, read this plot description from hollywood.com:

"An airport security man meets a girl described as a perfect 10. However, his own lack of confidence and the suspicions of his friends and family begin to sabotage the relationship."

Again, to no one's amazement, Andrew's League character customarily lacks a name, let alone an indication of exactly how he factors into the plot. Still, if the movie's title and story resonate with you as much as they do with me, then you will be on the lookout for She's Out of My League as it hits theaters some time in 2008. If not, then I do not even know you.

Finally, as if your penis liquid or vaginal fluid is not already gushing over the aforementioned titles, we submit Tenure for your disapproval. Although we still cannot come up with the damn name for Andrew's Tenure character -- seriously, what gives? -- we at least know that of the four films mentioned in this post, Tenure is the one which will feature Andrew most prominently. Check out this hot-to-trot plot description:

"In Mike Million's Tenure, [Luke] Wilson will play a college professor who battles for tenure with a formidable colleague ([Gretchen] Mol) and competes for her affection with her blowhard boyfriend (Daly)." David Koechner also stars in the Blowtorch Entertainment film, shooting this month [April 2008] in Philadelphia. Paul Schiff, Tai Duncan and Brendan McDonald produce; and Kelly Rodriques, Richard Hull and Dominic Ianno executive produce."

Am I the only one who is struggling to picture Daly as a blowhard, or is there an implicit double-entendre that is somehow eluding me in that character description? Well, fortunately for us, we have the rest of the year to contemplate these matters; for Tenure will not (forgive me) blow into theaters until some time in 2009. If, by some miracle of self-restraint, you discover that you still have some tomatoes left in your baskets after all of these rotten jokes, then fire away -- I certainly have them coming.

With that deserved onslaught of red spheres and seeds, we wrap up this Andrew Daly quadruple-feature. Break your piggy banks; hunt couch change; turn tricks; auction off your souls; and humiliate yourselves for cash in any other ways you see fit. Faster than you can say, "'MTV Diary,'" these movies from the bespectacled "MADtv" alum will be crying out to you for your overly generous financial support. (They will haunt your dreams -- trust me on this.) Catch Andrew Daly's rising, tin foil-covered star if you can!

UPDATE (08/20): My creative muse, Arden Myrin, has been added to the Informant cast in the role of Sarah Scott. Special thanks go to nick for the information.