FOX puts forth uninspiring slate of new shows

When I was a teenager, FOX was known as the edgy network that was home to ’21 Jump Street’ and ‘Married With Children.’

Later, it took the world by storm with a little show called ‘The X-Files.’

 

In recent years, the best thing you can say about FOX is that it’s struggling.

I mean, really, all FOX is known for these days is bad reality shows and a hilarious Sunday cartoon lineup.

When I looked over FOX’s new programming list I couldn’t help but be underwhelmed. I was interested in exactly one of them.

 

The Mindy Project – This sitcom, created by Howard Klein and Mindy Kaling, follows the life of a single physician as she tries to navigate her way through her personal and professional life.

Why it will work: I can’t think of one reason it would.

Why it will fail: When you can’t even think of a name for your show, you know you’re in trouble. The sounds generic and boring. Why would anyone tune in?

‘The Mindy Project’ debuts Sept. 25 at 9:30 p.m.

Ben and Kate – This is a sitcom about a brother and sister that are polar opposites (is there any other kind in sitcom land?). Ben is a dreamer and Kate is a young mother and realist struggling financially. Ben decides to move in with his sister and help her – while Kate decides at the same time to help her brother return to reality.

Why it will work: There aren’t any names attached with this and it’s so generic ‘The Mindy Project’ is laughing at it. I can’t see how this one is going to work either.

Why it’s going to fail: It was set up to fail. There is nothing new about this sitcom.

‘Ben and Kate’ debuts at 8:30 p.m. Sept. 25.

The Following – This is a midseason show – so we don’t have a premiere date yet. Still, this is the only show on Fox’s slate that I’m even remotely interested in. Created by Kevin Williamson of ‘Dawson’s Creek’ and ‘Scream’ fame, the show follows an FBI agent that finds himself in the middle of a network of serial killers when a serial killer uses diabolical technology to create them. It stars Kevin Bacon, James Purefoy, Maggie Grace, Shawn Ashmore and Natalie Zea.

Why it will work: The world is fascinated with serial killers – and this has an outstanding cast to go along with the creepy factor.

Why it will fail: I don’t actually see this one failing. The only thing I worry about is that Fox will pull one of their uber-lame scheduling snafus and pair it with Glee or something.

The Mob Doctor – The series follows a brilliant surgeon that must deal with protecting her career and reputation due to a family debt to the mob – even if it puts her friends, family and colleagues in danger. It stars Jordana Spiro, William Forsythe, Zeljko Ivanek and Jesse Lee Soffer.

Why it will work: It sounds cheesy – but it has an interesting cast. Forsythe, Ivanek and Soffer are good in whatever they do. I’m hopeful they didn’t pick a total dud.

Why it will fail: Do we really need another medical show? This seems like one of those shows that is going to take awhile to find its footing. Fox isn’t known for being patient.

‘The Mob Doctor’ debuts at 9 p.m. Sept. 17.

What do you think? Are you interested in Fox’s new offerings this season?