TVSquad

Following in the tradition of Knight Rider and Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, among others, ABC has given a back-nine order to the Grey's Anatomy spin-off, Private Practice. While I admit I'm not a big fan of this type of show, I did manage to watch an episode or two of Grey's Anatomy and I wonder if the doctors on this show are as insane as the ones on its originator.

The networks are showing a lot of faith in their scripted shows given the declined ratings for this season, which could be attributed to the WGA Strike (and damn those people for finding something else to do and sticking to it). Obviously, it takes time for shows to build up an audience again after such an event and the networks know this.

It would be very easy for the networks to inundate us with reality television at this point, which is cheaper to produce. I applaud the networks for recognizing the type of programming that has true longevity.

If you're of the belief that actions speak louder than words, than this move by NBC is proof positive that the network has great faith in Chuck. NBC has given Chuck an early full-season pickup.

The term is called a "back-nine" order, which means that the adventures of a geek-turned-reluctant super spy, will be on NBC for all of 2008-09. The vagaries of the demographics and Nielsens notwithstanding, NBC is betting on Chuck.

The comedy-adventure is entering its sophomore season, returning on Monday, September 29, at 8 E.T. Apparently, the powers-that-be at NBC -- Ben Silverman -- have liked the shows that are currently in the can.

Assuming they're right, Chuck will pick up right where it left off last year with sharp characters, funny stories and the right blend of action and laughs. It's not an easy mix, although when it works -- like Chuck and Burn Notice -- it makes for terrific TV.