'Raising the Bar' ratings raise Emmy hopes for Steven Bochco
Boffo ratings for Monday night's debut of "Raising the Bar" on TNT could temper the mixed reviews that greeted the return of one-time Emmy king Steven Bochco to TV. Like his previous Emmy winners — "Hill Street Blues," "L.A. Law," and "NYPD Blue" — "Raising the Bar" is an ensemble drama that unfolds against the backdrop of the American justice drama. Bochco regular Mark-Paul Gosselaar stars as a crusading public defender while perennial Emmy nominee Jane Kaczmarek ("Malcolm in the Middle") steals the show as a corrupt judge. About 7.7 million people tuned in to the commercial-free premiere on TNT.
Until his protege David E. Kelley edged him out, Steven Bochco held the Emmy record with seven wins as a producer of the best series: "Hill Street Blues" (1981, 1982, 1983, 1984), "L.A. Law" (1987, 1989), and "NYPD Blue" (1995).
To read more about Steven Bochco illustrious history with the Emmy Awards - CLICK HERE
(TNT)
As someone who works for an indigent defense group, I'm pleased with the depiction of criminal defense attorneys.
We, as a group, are viewed by the public at large as bottom feeders, that is until you or a loved one needs us.
The depiction of the judges, other than Kisler, are pretty spot on. Although it's not unusual for a judge to have one or more of the traits and attitudes of Kesler.
For those of us in the business, the show provides a window into the world we live in. The frustration of the system where the law is more important than justice, attorneys berated in front of clients and/or juries.
The way in which the defense attorneys become involved and care about their clients is representative of our office.
I wish more people watched the show, especially people I know who don't understand how I can defend a "criminal".
Posted by: Chuck Ewe | November 08, 2008 at 05:20 PM
The show is great and Mark Gosselar is amazing! just be tuned in. very interesting.
Posted by: stacey | October 15, 2008 at 12:30 AM
Another bleeding heart public defender? I've seen it too many times and it never gets better.
Posted by: v racer | October 14, 2008 at 12:34 PM