TVSquad

While Joel was covering the New Amsterdam premiere at the New York Television Festival on Thursday night, I decided to check out NBC's Comedy Short Cuts showcase. According to a press release, seven cast members (including Tracy Morgan) from 30 Rock were scheduled to appear at the event. It was also noted on the press release that "All Talent Subject to Change."

And change it did. Tracy was a no show unable to attend due to scheduling changes (as were Judah Friedlander, Scott Adsit, and Jack McBrayer). But Lonny Ross, Katrina Bowden, and Keith Powell were present and seemed happy to pose for a TV Squad photo. So now they're my favorites. (But don't worry guys, I still love all of you).

The "30 Rockers" were on hand not only to create a photo-op for NBC and the NYTVF, but to introduce eight independent short comedy films made by culturally diverse production teams and casts. NBC Universal produces this showcase in order to uncover diverse talent suitable for future development deals.

Twenty-six special episodes of Sesame Street will air in Kosovo as a way to promote ethnic diversity among children. The series, which is essential seen by children worldwide now, first came to the region in 2004. The new episodes, which will broadcast in both Serbian and Albanian languages, will combine footage from the series featuring the beloved Muppets with footage shot in the region. Kids fell in love with the series when it premiered there two years ago, and it was also praised for promoting respect among different ethnic groups. Maybe we could actually achieve world peace if we all just watched Sesame Street all day. At least up to the point when the Grover supporters wage an attack on the Cookie Monster sympathizers. Then the whole mess just starts over again.