“2012 Summer Olympic Games”
Through Sunday, NBC
We’re in the home stretch of the 2012 London Olympic Games, and I think we can all agree on one thing: NBC’s coverage has been pretty dreadful. From the decision to cut away from the memorial section of the opening ceremonies to spotty coverage of fan favorite events to the continued presence of Ryan Effing Seacrest—no ma’am. No ma’am. The last few days will be dominated by track & field, platform diving, and the long-awaited finals for beach and indoor volleyball. The closing ceremonies air Sunday 7-10:35pm and hopefully feature absolutely no narratives about teens texting.
“Animal Practice”
Sunday after the Olympics, NBC
NBC is determined to take advantage of its massive Olympics ratings by launching a slate of new series during or immediately following the games. Among them is this new sitcom starring Justin Kirk (Andy on “Weeds,” but also an amazing dramatic actor, as seen in HBO’s “Angels in America” miniseries) as a veterinarian who loves animals but hates people. His gonzo animal hospital is brought to order when his ex-girlfriend (JoAnna Garcia Swisher from “Better With You”) takes over, and of course they butt heads, as sitcom leads do. Also starring Tyler Labine (“Reaper”) and Crystal, best known as the monkey from The Hangover Part II, but forever in my heart as Annie’s Boobs from “Community.” You can also get a sneak peek of the new Matthew Perry comedy “Go On,” on Wednesday after the Olympics primetime coverage.
“Comedy Central Roast of Roseanne”
Sunday 10pm, Comedy Central
Roseanne Barr has become a pop-culture punchline, and I would argue that’s unfair. She made the terrible error of being a loud, outspoken, opinionated, and occasionally kooky public figure, and that’s not OK for women. It’s bullshit, especially when you consider that Barr’s eponymous sitcom was a hugely influential TV show in the 1990s, boldly chronicling the realities of lower-middle-class life while simultaneously being incredibly funny (and it still holds up). Thing is, I don’t think she gives a damn what anybody thinks of her. Which is why this roast should be amazing. Jane Lynch will serve as roastmaster and comedians Jeffrey Ross and Amy Schumer will take their shots, along with actresses Sharon Stone, Katey Sagal, and Carrie Fisher. And when they’re done, Barr will sit back, cackle, and read them all for filth! And you will love it.