Will more brides ‘Say Yes to the Dress’?
TELEVISION Q&A
Rich Heldenfels season in 1971-72.
Q: I remember reading that there would be another season of “The Cleaning Lady.” Has it been delayed because of the strikes, or will there really be another season?
A: Yes, it was delayed, and yes, it will be back — on March 5. Fox says the series “continues to examine the plight of undocumented immigrants and their difficulties accessing necessary healthcare and resources . ... It asks us all if the ends justify the means.” And it adding two new cast members, Kate del Castillo and Santiago Cabrera as mysterious siblings.
Q: I just read that next year will have the last season of “Blue Bloods” even though it is a top drama on TV. As one who has watched this wonderful program since the beginning, I will miss it and the Reagan dinners. There wasn't any reason given for it ending in all the articles I read.
A: CBS is indeed preparing to say goodbye to the Reagans and the long-running police drama (and I will miss it, too). The final, 14th season will be spread out, with 10 new episodes beginning Feb. 16 and eight saved for the fall of 2024.
While the show has been the most-watched program on Friday nights, there has been some slippage in its total audience and, more tellingly, a decline in its numbers with viewers ages 18-49, an audience prized by advertisers more than total viewers.
Also, with long-running shows, the costs can go up; in “Blue Bloods'” case, the stars and producers reportedly took a 25% pay cut to make the 14th season happen — which makes a proper ending possible.
Q: When is the new season of “All Creatures Great and Small” coming on PBS?
A: The fourth season of the current “All Creatures” begins Jan. 7 on “Masterpiece.” Here's some of what to expect: “It's Spring 1940, and with Europe at war, the community in Darrowby is pulling together more than ever before. With Tristan away serving, Siegfried and James bring in some extra hands to help around the practice: highly efficient bookkeeper Miss Harbottle and student vet Richard Carmody. Happily married, Helen and James begin to think about their future despite the looming possibility that James could be called up to serve.”
Do you have a question or comment about entertainment past, present and future? Write to Rich Heldenfels, P.O. Box 417, Mogadore, OH 44260, or brenfels@gmail.com. Letters may be edited. Individual replies are not guaranteed.