'Survivor 15: China' East Coast Update - Booted

Chicken is the first voted out.

Tonight's Survivor China Blogging

I have a spoilers post on the show up over on TV Squad -- beware of boot spoilers for this week and next! Please don't discuss the spoilers in the comments here.

For the season premiere tonight, I'll do an East Coast update on the boot, so check back for that post if you want to know or to talk about it. That should be up around 9 PM ET.

I'm reviewing the show for TV Squad, so my review won't be here. I'll zap a link to you once it's up.

Survivors ready?

More TV Squad Stuff!

Gee, I almost posted that title as TV Squid -- that would surely be a new take on things, huh?

My Kid Nation review is up over there. TVS isn't sure if they want it covered all season, but I'm hoping the traffic and response to the reviews will keep it going. I found the show almost on the refreshing side despite the obvious adult involvement in setting up things.

I also posted commentary on TV Tattler interviews with Dick and Daniele as well as Jeff Probst.

Please check them out and I'd love to hear your thoughts there! If you have problems posting comments on TV Squad, check the email address you're using -- one little typo and you won't get the confirmation mail. When you do get the confirmation mail, make sure you go to the link to activate the comment.

If you're having problems, let me know.

'Big Brother 8' - Thinking Back Over the Season

Thinking back over the recently completed season, I find it hard to call it the worst one ever. After all, I was entertained for the most part, weren't you? Technically, that's all we can really ask, I guess.

Since the overall season ratings were very good, I think we can probably expect the show to be renewed.

I want to share some of my thoughts on the season and wonder what's on your mind, too!

Okay, the first thing -- Allison Grodner's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland theme for the show and house. It never really came to fruition, did it? Yeah, the house was in a bizarre decor and there was one comp related to the theme. But I think it fell apart in the long run and have to ask what's up with that? They knew they were going to use the theme, why didn't they develop it more thoroughly? I give the theme an F this season.

The twists ... with the exception of Dick and Daniele, the other two "rivals" fell apart on short order. Unlike the X-Factor season, this just didn't last too well. And, of the rivals, I can't help but think if Joe hadn't ranted on about the STD he claims Dustin passed onto him, would Joe have been more amusing to watch in the long run?

The casting ... I keep going back and forth on this. Although I never condoned a lot of Dick's behavior, his presence kept the show atop the Neilsons perhaps more than in past seasons. I don't think this cast really hit me on a "I like these people" basis all season. In the past, I enjoyed watching folks like Will, Nakomis, even Roddy. I really think a better mix of ages and walks of life is needed for them to bring back my passion for the houseguests. Although I ended up wanting Dick to win this year, had there been a smart player who treated others not as crassly I would have supported them.

The lack of things for the houseguests to do ... what the hell is up with that? This season gave the houseguests almost absolutely nothing to do. In other years there were fun comps with decorating gnomes, something, anything! It's a wonder this group didn't just jump the wall and escape out of sheer boredom.

Your thoughts?

TV Squad STUFF

I have two new posts over on TV Squad --

One includes a nod to one of the commenters here (and there, too, but mainly here).
The other is my season introductory post to Survivor: China.

Head on over -- be loud, be proud ... be a Donato!
Er, wait ... let me take that back. Please don't be a Donato over there!

'Survivor 15: China' - My First Impressions on the Cast - Part Five

Welcome to the last installment of my Survivor 15: China cast introduction and my take on the new castaways! I've had to split this into several parts due to length. You can find the rest of the castaways in Part One, Part Two, Part Three, and Part Four. These will remain listed in my sidebar here for easy reference throughout the season. While I'll be doing the show episode reviews themselves over at TV Squad this season, I'll be talking about the show here, too. And, of course, I always welcome your comments both at TVS and here!

Continuing my alphabetical order by first name, it's Peih-Gee next to the plate. I was pretty impressed with her in her video on the CBS site although she seems to be being portrayed as a bit of a wild card in the promos for the show.

Looking at her CBS bio, I can't help but mention she has one of the longest, if not the longest, bios of anyone on the show this season. She has an extensive dancing background appearing in videos from many popular stars and MTV doings. She's well-traveled, too. Plus, she has a roughing it in foreign lands for extended periods of time experience. Not only that, but her educational background is impressive, too. Oh, my.

She says she's free-spirited, witty, spunky, assertive, optimistic, open-minded, outspoken, strong-willed and she thinks like a guy. She thinks her biggest strengths are having a good attitude, seeing the brighter side of things, and having the ability to focus all of attention to the task at hand. Oh, my.

It's off to her favorites! She lists Survivor amongst her favorite shows, good. WHAT? She lists NO cereal. She left the cereal section blank. I don't know what to make of that. This is a first. How can I judge her psychological game without knowing her cereal?

Her chances? I think she just could be the strongest all around player for the women. If she isn't too assertive and doesn't alienate the others, I can see her hanging in towards the end. Plus, she has two cats. I think I like her!

I see this season's show is back down to only a few persons of color. I kind of liked the more diversity in casting, but we'll see how this season goes down.

Sherea focused on her people-skills and herself on a whole in her video. She does seem to be a nice person and her background as a teacher will probably help her cope with the various personalities in the game. Her plan is to get along with everyone and keep focused throughout. She will play thinking of her mother who's a breast cancer survivor.

Her bio is only about half as long as Peih-Gee's. She looks very normal, perhaps too normal to be on a reality show! Her educational background includes a Masters degree. She claims to be sassy, outspoken, and caring. I didn't think she seemed either sassy or outspoken in her video. She just came across as nice to me. What do I know, eh? She also considers herself to be competitive, outgoing, and a leader.

Going to her favorites, I see she lists Big Brother on her shows, but not Survivor! Ack, two very different shows! For cereals, she likes Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Lucky Charms. That tells me that, not only does she have a fun-loving side, she's seeking the luck of the Irish to be on her side throughout the season! (Trust me, I've studied Cereal Psychology for years.)

Her chances? I think I'm going to like her as a person on the show, but I'm not so sure how well she'll do swimming with the sharks. If she indeed befriends people, works those people skills ... she might do well. I'd like to be wrong, but I don't see her making it to the final four.

Todd has the dubious honor of being the last castaway on my list. In his video, he was a bit ... off ... or something. At one point he stopped for an extended period of time looking confused, then repeated himself. He thinks he will do well and everyone will like him. Um, okay.

In his bio on the CBS site, he starts off with the fact that he's an openly gay Mormon. Holy Osmonds, Batman! He's allergic to cats, rabbits, and shrimp. He describes himself as fantastic, amazing, awesome, and super-original.

Give me a break, kid. Keep this up and I'll want you not only booted but forced to jump from the Great Wall head first.

He goes on to say he'll do well because he's very positive, great at social skills and strategizing, and will gather wood and er, stuff. He thinks the Spice Girls are the most significant historical event of the past 100 years.

Is this guy a joke? Onto his favorites ... he does list Survivor in his favorite shows, but that's no surprise. For cereals he lists granola and Peanut Butter Cap'n Crunch. Aha, he's living a contradictory kind of life! He doesn't know if he wants to go the healthy route or eat the least popular Cap'n Crunch in a childlike fantasy land! Very telling, indeed.

His chances? I think an early boot, but he might hang in for a while because I don't think the others will see him as a threat. I know if he pulls the "I make everyone happy" bit at the wrong time, he could certainly alienate the others.

'Big Brother 8' - Season Finale - Live-Blogged from the East Coast

I screen-capped this image from the blocked feeds and kind of took it over! I received a note from Zoetawny (posting from an Internet cafe) -- she's sorry to miss the end of the season.

Here on the East Coast, the show is starting. As it airs, I'll constantly (well, very frequently) be updating this entry. Please feel free to comment and have a good time! Please forgive any typos as I'm watching the show, too!

We're into a brief season recap now. Dick just re-won the final HOH. And the show should really begin soon.

Look! The blocked feeds are on the plasma screen!

Zach arrives at sequester after Dustin least wants to see Zach. Jen wants to see Dick walk through the door ... and it's ZACH! Eric tells him he would have won six to one.

America's Player -- Who should Eric campaign and vote for to win? Dick. Eric thinks we chose wisely. The jury doesn't seem to like Eric's idea. He goes into car salesman mode, talking up Dick and down Daniele. Amber looks like she's going to cry. Jen is very against Dick, but all of a sudden Amber is defending Dick and telling Jen whe flipflopped.

They start looking at the game the two played. Zach brings up the competition winning. Eric brings up Dick's victories. Amber says Dick played for two people. She said Dick played "awesome." Jessica is pro-Dick win, too. Daniele is the pimp, E.D. is the ho according to Jameka. Evel or Evel Spawn will win comes from Dustin.

The jury questioning -- help me in comments if I don't type fast enough, guys.

Dustin -- Dick, knowing that your daughter said I'll carry my daad with me because he's a terrible person and I'll win. Dick is hppy, strongest team.

Amber for Daniele -- Why give the vote, you're a pathetic person for doing what you did to your BF with Nick. D -- I don't want your vvote if based on personal life.

Jessica -- Who other than Daniele to sit with (to Dick) -- Pnly Daniele. Tough decision.

Eric -- Dick -> each jury member deserve to be in the final two? Dustin, Jen, Amber.. do not deserve, mentions Amber and good people. Jessica didn't bloody hands, Eric played best, Jameka was given chance, Zach almost made it.

Zach - What have you learned from each jury member -- Daniele will take Eric's humor, Amber heart and Mom of the house. Dick learned from Dustin to be careful with power, says Jen has a real person down in there, Jameka best hearted person, Zach run for the money don't underestimate will and heart.

Jameka - Not using your father to advance in the game, biggest move. Eric thing, backdooring Jen

Jen -- Hello, it's me, don't respect you as people. Dick did you build relationship with Daniele? Dick shocked w/question beginning to build normalcy, ends with if you don't know you're an idiot. Daniele thinks they made a lot out of it and there's no one esle she wants to sit next to. Dick played the game hard, strategy to work with Jessica and Eric. He feels the worse about turning on Jessica and Eric. He did a lot of the dirty work. We won.

Speech session over, D&D alone -- she accuses him of campaigning against her.

Jury coming in. Amber looks HORRIBLE! Jessica and Jen look nice. Eric looks Eric-y, Jameka very pretty. Zach looks Zach-like. He should have worn a bunny suit.

D&D are in the house, Julie is out with the crowd and the jury. Daniele says it was nice to spend time with her Dad and she's happy. Time for the jury to cast their votes.

Jurors put each key in the box, one statement.

Eric -- 1 - Clearcut choice good luck
Jameka - 2 - Vote for one whose game she respects
Dustin - 3 - Based on strategic action, not just words
Jen - 4 - I'd rather not, but must
Zach - 5 - Longest, blah-blah
Amber -6 - Congrats, close to both, based on game strategic purpose, whoops
Jessica - 7 - Voting for the person I enjoyed more in the house, may the best Donato win

The first five evicted will be coming in next.

Julie is with Dick's Mom and his son Vincent -- Daniele's grandmother who raised her and her brother. Charlotte is happy that they made strides in rebuilding the relationship. Vincent says he's always like that but it got him where he is in the game.

Nick's hair has grown in. He gets to talk to Daniele. Awkward says Daniele in a high voice.

Carol is asked about Jessica -- kind of proud, but there were some personal words. Joe said he liked watching Dustin fall apart, but congrats ... you got far. Dustin doesn't reply. Mike was rooting for Zach. Kail not surprised that Dick made it that far.

Time to reveal the big twist -- America's Player. Tells jury and Donatos. "One of you has a secret, one has not played alone, one is not who you appear to be."

This is HILARIOUS! I couldn't type through it.

Jessica is speechless. Not mad at him.

Dick benefited from the AP -- Julie talks to Dick. He thought he made a great power play and it was all Eric. Awesome, wow!

Daniele -- Knew mustard and votes, hilarious.

Dustin -- Eric can sell anything, enjoyed paradise. Jameka says it makes sense to her, she never could trust him. Jen now understands America mustarded her shirt. Eric tells Dustin and Amber he's sorry. Eric tells Jessica that he wanted to tell her for so long, but everything he said to her about them was true.

Julie tells them Eric cast the vote for America tonight.

The reveal of the votes...

1. AmERICa -Dick
2. Jameka - Daniele
3. Dustin - Dick
4. Jen - Daniele
5. Zach - Dick
6. Amber - Dick

Dick wins BB8!!!

Last vote not read yet as only four needed to win. Daniele taking it well.

Last vote was Jessica voting for Dick to win. Dick's going on a trip. Daniele is in the WE WON mode and is ecstatic.

Nick looks fat for Nick. Daniele asksed Julie if she'll be at the wrap party. I think she's starstruck ... over Julie Chen? Puh-leeze!

Y'all happy with this outcome? I think this was actually one of the better season finales. The America's Player reveal was better than the twist itself.

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds ... or lack thereof

The live feeds have been blocked all day since I posted my TV Squad update. Since we're about an hour before showtime, I don't expect them to unblock.

At about 9 PM ET I'll put up the start of a live-blogging post which I'll update throughout the finale as it airs here in the NYC area.

The weather is clear but a bit cool ... please bring a sweater or light jacket to the comments party.

And snacks, don't forget snacks!

May the best Donato win! And, I hope to see you there ... at the post, that is.

BB8 Live Feeds Screen Cap - TV Squad Stuff

Although both Daniele and Dick are now asleep as I post this -- the screen cap is from a few hours ago as Dick packed some more of his things.

I have the latest Big Brother 8 update with the overnight happenings up over on TV Squad.

I also have a post about Amazing Race season two winner Alex Boylan and his latest television/world travel adventure up over on TVS.

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds - The Last Evening in the House

Believe it or not, Daniele and Dick have actually made me smile on and off as they spend their last night in the house together. The BB voice has even been funny at times.

Here's what's been happening in the Big Brother House of No Longer Dueling Donatos:

• Daniele misses seeing animals. Apparently she regularly goes to a pet store to see animals and has missed them while in the BB house.
• She also misses her cellphone.
• Daniele dyed Dick's hair -- nothing new, just fixed the red dye in it.
• They talked about the competitions they enjoyed the most. Daniele liked the pasta one while Dick liked Slop Pong. Dick didn't like Butter Me Up because he was mad at what Jen said to him and got stuck on the pump.
• Daniele liked the JanelleOVision comp, Dick liked the fact that Janelle was there.
  
• They talked about the other houseguests ... again.
• They mentioned how cold it's gotten and how recently they had the heat wave there.
• BB stocked the storeroom for them so they could eat well.
• Daniele's first words when she was a baby were "Hi Dad." Vincent had said it and she repeated it.
• They wondered what made the air and what didn't.
• They said the Hide and Seek Veto probably sounded better on paper than it worked out. It took the over six hours and it was hot.
• They played cards, had ice cream and cake.
• And, they actually enjoyed each other's company. Dick must be tickled pink. Daniele doesn't want him to go to bed -- wants him to stay up with her.
  

'Survivor 15: China' - My First Impressions on the Cast - Part Four

Welcome to Part Four of my take on the new castaways! I've created a separate section for these on my sidebar (over there ---->) and you can get to all of my Survivor 15: China content by hitting the hyperlinked label at the bottom of any post about the season.

Keeping with my first name alphabetical order for these, it's James. He has one almost typical Survivor applicant job while his other job is something he really digs. You got it -- he's a bartender/security at nightclubs and weddings ... and a gravedigger! (Why can't I think of that profession and not think of the Dave Matthews song?)

The interesting part is, according to his video on the CBS site, he loves gravedigging. He started when he was ten years old working for his father, socialized very little while growing up. Being in the clubs has made him more social.

His bio itself is brief and to the point. In the bio, he mentions being athletically gifted, socially adaptive, and physically attractive. Hmmm ... with the exception of mentioning how strong he is ("Gravedigger, when you dig my grave...") in the video, he didn't mention anything about his looks. He thinks he'll adapt well.

Onto his favorites -- Ah, good. He lists Survivor amongst his favorite television shows. That always makes me feel better about a castaway. His outdoor activities include football, cooking, and drinking ... interesting, no? For cereal, he lists grits. I may be mistaken, but I don't think grits are a staple food in China.

My thoughts? Well, gee ... I don't know. He thinks he'll stay on well in the beginning because he's strong and they'll want him to win challenges. I think he's right. But, if he's that strong and does that well in challenges, that will put a huge target on his back going into the merge. I think I want to like him, but I don't think the others would let him get to the end.

Next up is Jean-Robert. Here's a guy with an interesting approach to the game. In his video he said he plans to approach it like a poker tournament (he's a professional poker player). He'll spend some time in the start analyzing his competition -- strongest, weakest, etc. Then he'll ally, but be ready to change his table.

He admits he's overweight and out of shape, but he thinks that the game is just as much, maybe more, of a mental game as it is a physical one.

In his bio, he certainly does seem to be a pro poker player as that's the majority of the bio. He thinks he's charismatic, fun, and loud. I found him a bit charismatic in his video, but hopefully he can control the loud aspect. If he's constantly loud at camp, they will get ticked off at him. He doesn't really list any qualities which would help him survive in wooded areas.

To his favorites -- Hmmm... no Survivor listed. His choices of cereal are Honeycomb and Corn Pops. That tells me he doesn't take things too seriously and enjoys life. (Remember, I have a degree in Psychological Cereal Indicators.)

His possibilities on the show? For some reason, he's reminding me a bit of Richard Hatch, but a smoother player. I actually like his approach and I'm sure we'll see his poker face and some bluffing along the way. I think he could make final four as long as he isn't too physically inept. He said he's overweight, but he doesn't look all that out of shape for me. He just might be my early favorite for the win. That may change down the line, but I'm gonna call it now.

Leslie has tried to get on the show for eleven seasons. I can't help but wonder why she didn't make it ten times and they took her on for this season.

In her video, I believe she mentioned she's a Christian at least eight times. That's not a really good sign for me. Although she said she's human and makes mistakes, she thinks it will give her an edge to have faith. Maybe, maybe not. She also thinks of herself as a professional interviewer which should help her get to know and get along with her fellow castaways.

Heading to her bio page, I see that she's probably very physically fit. She teaches fitness classes three times a week in addition to her radio host job. She thinks she energetic, passionate, and overwhelming. Overwhelming? That doesn't sound like a good quality to make it to the end when you're deserted with a bunch of strangers!

Over to her favorites -- Survivor is listed first and in caps, no surprise there! She enjoys camping, that's a good thing. Her cereal? Raisin Nut Bran. That tells me she likes to be regular. She might miss that being on the show.

I'm not getting Sole Survivor screaming at me about Leslie. I could be horribly wrong, but I don't see her making it to the merge. I predict an early goodbye to her, but at least she can boast she finally got on the show.

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds - Current QuadCam Screen Cap

I'd say we're watching grass grow, but I think it's fake grass. Actually, Daniele had been sunning, Dick is asleep still.

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds Report Into Monday Morning 9/17

Well, well, well ... look who's talking again! Of course one thing they mentioned (just before feeds were blocked) is that the show should have scheduled two cameramen in case they don't stay in the same room. True? I dunno.

They finally started talking again when Dick consoled a crying Daniele who wanted to go home. In a way, I can understand her feeling that way. I've thought in previous years that this stretch of several days with just the final two in the house and not knowing which will will is way too long.

I'm crying here, too. I want them to go home! The show should have had the finale last night instead of torturing me here for another two days!

Okay, I lie. I'm not crying. But this final two bit could definitely be shortened to two days without losing a thing.

Here are the happenings since last evening in that Big Brother House of Familial Affection and Devotion:

• Dick said Eric's jury question was about why each person here deserves to be in the final two. He said Amber doesn't deserve to be here, Dustin doesn't deserve to be here, Jen doesn't deserve to be here ... feeds blocked.
• Dick said Jessica's question was stupid and she said she didn't believe him. He said he doesn't care if she believed him or not.
• Amber told Daniele she was pathetic when she questioned her. (Um ... of the two, I'd say in levels of pathetic-ness, Amber has Daniele beat hands down. In my observations, Daniele's main problem is immaturity and she's spoiled. As time goes on, those might change. Amber's got serious issues which need more than time to heal.)
• Dick said that Amber was probably told the question and she most likely doesn't know the meaning of the word pathetic. Daniele doubts she (Amber) could spell pathetic.
• Their talk was interrupted when there was a fire in the oven -- the BB voice called for a fire extinguisher. There were no fatalities other than the taco shells.
  
• When the BB voice asked if all was okay and told them that their safety was their main concern, Daniele called out, "Liar!" The feeds blocked.
• Although they're talking, Daniele is still upset that Dick told the jury that he did all the dirty work. (Well, he did!)
• Apparently Eric asked Daniele to tell three reasons she shouldn't win. She only came up with one -- that wasn't going to attack him, wasn't going to campaign.
• Jen's question was "Why should I vote for you to win?"
  
• Dick once again told Daniele he didn't campaign against her and he's sorry she took it that way.
• Daniele said that because of him she had to play two games in the house. Doing the dirty work was HIS strategy and she had to cope with others about it doing damage control.
• Daniele told Amber she didn't want her vote -- it didn't matter.
• Dick was taken aback by Jen's question about why the jurors shouldn't be in the final two.
  
• Both Daniele and Dick think that Jessica was nasty in the questioning and her own strategy was to hang onto Eric.
• Dick said that Jessica's strategy had Eric gotten evicted before her would probably be to sleep all day.
• In the jury questioning, Jen said she didn't respect either of them as human beings. (Perhaps she respects them as some sort of marsupials? A plant form?)
• Jen said she didn't want to vote for either of them, but she has to vote for one.
• Dick thought that for the ShoToo time, they should sit around and trash their ex-housemates.
• Daniele baked cookies ... again. I swear that's the only thing she knows how to make!
• They trashtalked the others and, as a result, grew more of a bond as father and daughter. ;-)

There ya go ... they've now gone to bed for the day, er ... night.

'Big Brother 8' - 9/16 Show Live-Blogged from the East Coast

The show is about to start here in the NYC area after a football delay. Remember, tonight's show is NOT the finale and we won't be seeing the jury questions. It's the season recap show and I heard there will be a focus on Dick and Daniele.

As it airs here, I'll frequently update this entry. Since I'm typing it looking at the television instead of my monitor and keyboard, there may be typos. I do that to prove I'm not a JackieBot.

Everyone is welcome to join in with comments.

Ah, the recap of the HOH part one comp.

Tonight the final two will take a look back at the most volatile, humerous moments of the summer.

Dick gives credit to Zach for turning his game on. Daniele made a more snarky comment. Now we see Donato celebrating again. Who woulda thunk it? Dick thinks he already won because he's improved the relationship with Daniele.

Daniele tells us it was worth it although she's hit the bottom many times. They have their feast and champagne. Dick is still stunned. Daniele thinks she's had the hardest time in the house emotionally over anybody. They show the start of the season when Dick came down the stairs all over again.

Into a montage of their bickering. Golly gee, I didn't like seeing this the first time around! The show then turned to a brief focus of them getting closer after the HOH comp part one.

In discussing who will win, they think each other will. Now it's into a montage of Evel Dick being evil to Jen. Jameka and Dustin are just ignoring it. He's waking Dustin up, then Amber ... all in his act to make them hate him and vote him out instead of Daniele.

A montage of good people and praying now. Jen walks through Jameka's prayer looking for a white belt for her bunny suit. Note Jameka is parying on Howie's "Jack Shack." Amber is praying, God bless you, God.

The Dick and Jameka shout fest with the clapping about the magical ping pong ball (POV choice) where she calls Zach a nobody. Zach looks down in his bunny suit. Yo mama!

Recapping Nick and Daniele, then onto the Eric and Jessica showmance ... er, romance. The move to Kansas recap conversation was kind of cute, but now it's to the smooching. Again.

In a promo, they mention they're looking for applicants for BB9. Who's game?

Jen is crying over her Memory Wall picture. Ah, the memories...!

The iced tea incident. I now realize that Daniele's voice in this reminds me of the Olsen twins on that old show.

Jen re-destroys Dick's cigarettes. The infamouse burn fight.

Tha Amber crying montage. The "hot mom" -- Jameka tells her she will be in a magazine. (Jameka doesn't mention it's probably MAD Magazine.) Now Amber is sure she has model potential. Now she's about to flip out on Eric... duck, Eric! Zach looks strangely incongruous wearing his bunny suit through this.

It's onto the fun things -- Zach streaking, Eric prancing in Jessica's dress. Jen and Eric wrestling. Onto the mysteries of the house. The mustard and hinky votes. They think Eric or Nick for the mustard, added Dustin in for the votes.

Talking about their plans for the the money, Daniele is coming across as positive (though she shows a different face on the feeds). Dick is happy.

Seaon finale Tuesday, America's Player revealed, jury questioning and the winner of BB8!

'Big Brother 8' Delayed on East Coast

60 Minutes started a few minutes ago here in the NYC area. Everything is delayed due to football this time.

When Big Brother 8 starts, I'll start live-blogging the show as it airs. Keep in mind that tonight's show is the season recap episode, so we can't expect anything new and exciting -- old and exciting, perhaps.

I have a feeds report from earlier in the day over on TV Squad - it sat a while, but it's different from what I posted here. They're live-blogging the Emmys there tonight. Thankfully, it's not me doing it!

As for the feeds, there really isn't much to report. Daniele and Dick seemed to take shifts sleeping and avoided each other all day.

TV Squad: Kid Nation

My first post about Kid Nation is up over on TV Squad. Will you be watching?

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds Through Sat. Night Into Sunday 9/16

They faced the jury! Well, not literally, I don't think. I'm sure it was done via TV monitors. Of course, the feeds were blocked, so I don't know the actual questions. They don't really know how the jury will vote in the end, but they can speculate from the questions asked. So, their reaction is key and here it is...

• After the feeds being blocked for nearly two hours, they returned on Dick. He was asking himself -- "I was campaigning to beat her?"
• Daniele was pacing and pouting.
• Dick said, "Great, another thing for her to be [bleepin'] mad at me about."
• Dick - "How did I know she'd be pissed at me? There's no winning, no winning. There's always a Catch-22 with Daniele."
• Then the fireworks began when Dick and Daniele came face to face.
• Dick started to apologize for "coming off that way."
• Daniele - "This sucks! The only thing anyone has against me from week one and because Amber goes at me. I'm never my own person in this house and its so annoying. You said there have been rumors that I've been carried by Daniele. Zach only said that, then even Jameka! You said I flew under the radar. Those people credit me for nothing! The only reason I'm here is because of you!"
• Dick tried to interrupt her with a "no."
• Daniele ranted on. She went on again about everyone crediting him for her being in the final two (and how it sucks). She ranted more about people in the background laughing because she was such a joke and shouldn't be in the final two.
• She yelled at them that she felt like crap because of him.
• He said she deserved to be in the final two. He said he didn't say anything about her.
• She yelled that he did. "Yes, you did! I'm so over being in this house! This sucks! I'm sorry, but I don't think you had the hardest game coming into the house! It's so annoying! I'm always in your shadow! I hate being here!"
• She stomped off to bed where she remained awake.
• A little later, Dick tried to apologize. She wouldn't answer him.
• Dick went back to the backyard where he heard an auto accident in the distance, but then it was a version of the Dick Show -- when he speaks to the Internet.
• He tells us that he just can't win with Daniele. She thinks he always had a better relationship with the jury members and it all stemmed from Nick.
  
• Dick thinks the jury will vote for him to win, but the fact that he would win against his daughter makes it a no-win.
• He said Daniele has never been happy in the game even though she won a lot of comps -- she's always complaining. (Which, of course, is why I'd rather see Dick win over Daniele.)
• Continuing the Dick Show -- "It's going to be a [bleepin'] long two days, I tell you that!"
• He then talked about how he didn't think Amber would attack Daniele like that. (Oh, I have to see this!)
• He tells us he thinks he won, but Daniele's "pissed" at him and all of the jury members, she got attacked by a lot of them.
• Meanwhile, on the other cams, Daniele's in bed. Her eyes are open.
• Dick did the laundry, then settled down for a game of Solitaire, once again going on about Amber and her jury question to Daniele. (No, he didn't say the actual question.)

So, it sounds like the jury, especially Amber, really went at Daniele. It sounds like they accused her of riding his coattails through the game. Since it's Daniele who's upset and Dick the only one talking, I don't know if the jury even said anything about his tactics. But I'm sure they did.

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds Report - Into Saturday 9/15

Above is a screen cap I took at 8:11 ET this morning, both Daniele and Dick are asleep right now as I post this.

As I expected with only the two in the house for a period of days, the feeds are rather quiet (which is a good thing as I conked out last night!). Here are a few more noteworthy or odd tidbits from inside the Big Donato House:

• Dick has become a champion Solitaire player.
• Both Dick and Daniele still have aches and pains from the HOH comp and previous ones. My personal guess is that Dick probably has a lot more pain than Daniele.
• Daniele complained that Dick wouldn't just let her be, but ... sheesh, they're trapped in the house. He already talks to the cameras. If Daniele doesn't talk to him, he'll have to talk to the moose topiary figure.
• Dick put out a cookie and set the table for Daniele thinking it would make her smile. When he asked what she thought, she asked if this is what things are coming to. Sigh.
• Daniele hopes they don't have to do Housecalls and The Early Show appearance together. @@
• She said he would talk the entire time. Well, she might have a point there, I guess. But, still ...!
• They argued about small stuff ... again.
• He thought she had a bad attitude ... again.
• Dick thinks that now they're spending too much time together. He said they shouldn't be apart two years again, but two days would be nice.
• Daniele exercised.
• Dick housecleaned, smoked, and spat. Spitted? Got spittle all over the dang yard. That covers it.
  
• Daniele asked Dick if they might get a montage of Amber crying. Dick told her they probably already had one.
• BB gave Dick a box which has 9 different games. At last, something for him to do!
• Although Daniele went to bed, she got up and shared breakfast cooked by Dick, and an ice cream snack at about 5 AM their time (that's what they're doing in the screen cap I have here).
• They talked about their previous housemates -- Eric's mannerisms, Amber giving Nick advice (what's worse ... Amber giving advice or Nick taking it?)
• They played Chinese Checkers.
• Then to bed once again.
  

Bloggy Stuff

G'morning! Guess what I did? After having technical issues with my last TV Squad post and staying up for most of the night on Thursday, then going to work Friday after what was basically a just a nap ... I fell asleep for nearly twelve hours after getting home last night. Yikes!

As a result, I'm still catching up with comments and emails both here and at TVS. Reading through the comments on my last BB8 entry, I was delighted to see the range of opinions, many written so thoroughly and well ... it was fantastic discussion! I peek at other places and see many of the commenters going wild, getting nasty, posting vulgarities just to post them. Here we have folks on both ends of the season controversy, yet I see people telling WHY they think the way they do and intelligent comments on both sides of the fence. Kudos to you! (I knew I shouldn't worry about facing dozens of "you're an idiot if you like..." posts, but it was a nagging thought in my mind when I awoke!)

On another note from the comments, I want to express my condolences to commenter Terry in CA whose mother passed away. I've sent a separate email to her, but since her comment might have been lost in the crowd, I wanted to mention it here. Terry has been a long-time commenter on this blog and on my AOL one before this came about. We don't always share the same show favorites, but Terry's comments are always well-reasoned and appreciated here. My sincere sympathies go out to her on her loss and my thoughts and prayers to her and her family.

A new commenter wondered if we did this every year, if any other shows are covered, if donations are necessary, and such. Here are the answers:

• I've been involved in online doings for Big Brother since season one. For the first five seasons I hosted the AOL message boards for the show, often doing "bloggie" sort of posts, but without the blog medium.
• As season six approached and the blog medium was really taking off, I thought the live feeds were a perfect match for blogging as blogs are updated with the newest content on top and folks could comment. So, I created Big Brother 6 - Live Feeds Reports and More over on AOL.
• In January of 2006 I switched to Blogger due to commenting issues (only AOL and AIM could comment on AOL Journals) and some other limitations with AOL's product. I decided I wouldn't have a blog specific to shows, but all I wrote about would be here on this blog.
• I have covered Big Brother, The Amazing Race, Lost, Heroes, American Idol, Hell's Kitchen, and Survivor here in detail while often touching on other shows. I do East Coast boot updates for the shows, plus for some I don't cover in detail each week.
• Upon request, I create discussion posts for commenters to talk about shows I don't watch -- they can be found in the sidebar and I'll get new ones going as the new seasons start.
• This summer I was hired by TV Squad to cover the BB live feeds there. If you read here and there, the content differs. I can't post a ton of times a day there or just send up screen caps and a quick comment, so they're quite different arenas.
• This fall (next week!), I will be reviewing Survivor 15: China and Kid Nation for TV Squad. Since Kid Nation is new, I probably won't have much content about it here other than pointers to my posts there, maybe a bit of discussion.
• As for Survivor, that's been a regular staple here each season, and I won't desert it this season. I will still post East Coast updates on the major happenings here although my show review/recap will be on TV Squad. I will also post on the castaways, my opinions, and other things here as the season arrives. I've already started with the castaways and should get them finished by tomorrow -- see the sidebar.
• For the donations question -- no, you don't have to donate to be a part of things here. Some folks asked that I put up the donations button and I'll admit they surely are appreciated, but they aren't necessary. The fact that a real online community has grown here means more to me and every person who takes the time to join in on the discussions is a part of that community.
• In addition to the blog writing, I do work a day job. So, sometimes it might get a bit crazy when something controversial happens. If you see a problem in the comments, please don't respond and chances are that I'll take out any purely trash posts or rein in disputes.
• Your comment will never be removed due to your opinion about a show or contestant. I've done this (and the AOL board stuff) for so long that I'm used to folks having varying opinions. I know not everyone will think the same and love to hear why they think the way they do. That doesn't mean that I'll agree with them, but if we all thought the same ... what would we have to discuss? I just ask that other commenters are treated with respect.

I want to thank everyone who has been a part of this blog. The BB8 season may be wrapping up, but the fall season of new shows is about to start! Woohoo!

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds Since the Live Show

Daniele is asleep as I post this, but Dick is still awake -- smiling, giggling, shuffling cards, and smoking.

Here's the skinny on the night:

• BB gave Daniele and Dick a bottle of champagne and a dinner to congratulate them -- Dick to "winning, plain and simple" and Daniele for Zach going home.
• Dick thinks Daniele will win because she's the lesser of two evils, Daniele thinks Dick will win because the jury hates her. (And they don't hate Dick?)
• Dick kept bursting into celebratory dancing and jumping fits. At one point he asked Daniele how she could be so calm. She laughed and jokingly said, "Because I'm not a freak like you." (Nah, wasn't particularly mean. She was teasing. She kept looking at him and smiling.)
• Once again, he went on about it all being a fairytale come true.
• Dick thinks the others will play it personal and he wonders what Dustin will ask him.
• Daniele pointed out that this was the first day of five they'll be trapped there. She wants to go home. (Although she's whining, I agree -- I don't know why they leave the final two stuck in there so long when the game is basically all but over.)
• Dick is still hurting from the first part of the comp, but his happiness over winning takes over ... until he moves funny and OW.
• Dick told Daniele it's not important what she says to the jury because, either way, they won.
• BB went all out stocking the stockroom for them.
• Daniele made her now infamous cookies.
• They talked about how the rules changed in the first part after the rabbit died. They thought Zach wasn't doing as well when he had to jump the bunny. (Notice that they didn't say a word about the dead rabbit on the show.)
• Daniele thinks Eric is going to be vicious with his questions for them.
• Daniele went to bed.
• Dick set the table for her telling us it will make her smile in the morning.
• I don't think Dick is going to be able to sleep for another few days -- he's still in a rush of exhilaration over winning. When he crashes, I predict at least 12 hours straight of sleep.

There ya go! I wrote the review of the show which should appear on TV Squad sometime soon.