Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews and Spoilers

After last year's writers' strike disrupted the TV season, even die-hard fans might draw a blank when it comes to their favorite shows. We refresh your memory on what happened last time on 'Heroes,' 'Pushing Daisies' and all of fall's returning series, plus the inside scoop on what's coming next.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/30-rock/942767/main' target='_blank'>'30 Rock'</a></font>

Airs Thu., 9:30PM on NBC | Premieres Oct. 30

<b>Last Season:</b> Jack failed to become GE's CEO and ended up at Homeland Security; Liz contemplated adoption. <b>What's Next?</b> In the season opener, an adoption agency follows Liz around to see if she'll make a fit mother. We're sure she doesn't embarrass herself at all.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/60-minutes/62064/main' target='_blank'>'60 Minutes'</a></font>

Airs Sun., 7PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 28

<b>Last Season:</b> Primetime TV's longest-running series won its 15th Peabody for the feature 'The Killings in Haditha.' <b>What's Next?</b> Correspondents <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/anderson-cooper/430205' target='_blank'>Anderson Cooper</a>, <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/morley-safer/62580' target='_blank'>Morley Safer</a> and others provide more award-worthy coverage of the world's biggest stories, including the war in Iraq and the sagging economy.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1C5BB0'>'The Amazing Race 13'</font>

Airs Sun., 8PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 28

<b>Last Season:</b> Hippies TK and Rachel won after a brain teaser vexed the other two final teams. <b>What's Next?</b> Traveling to new locales like Cambodia and Bolivia will be 11 teams that include guys in their 20s, divorcees in debt, and ... hippies (but they're OLD hippies).

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/american-dad/168882/main' target='_blank'>'American Dad'</a></font>

Airs Sun., 9:30PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 28

<b>Last Season:</b> Roger was crowned "King of Spring Break" while Stan contemplated trading in his marriage for a booze cruise with a college co-ed. Plus, Stan admitted all his CIA "kills" happened by chance. <b>What's Next?</b> A new opening sequence and an episode with the choice title 'Pulling Double Booty.'

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/americas-funniest-home-videos/62777/main' target='_blank'>'America's Funniest Home Videos'</a></font>

Airs Sun., 7PM on ABC | Premieres Oct. 5

<b>Last Season:</b> Viewers with no sense of shame sent in videos of people and pets doing stupid things on camera. <b>What's Next?</b> More pratfalls in the pool, trampoline mishaps, dog-human make-outs, toddler tantrums, baby throw-up sessions, bicycle debacles and footballs to the groin.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/americas-next-top-model/66792/main' target='_blank'>'America's Next Top Model'</a></font>

Airs Wed., 8PM on CW | Premieres Sept. 3

<b>Last Season:</b> Host/producer <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/tyra-banks/195112' target='_blank'>Tyra Banks</a> moved her fashionable reality show back to NYC and crowned the first-ever plus-sized Top Model. <b>What's Next?</b> More cat fights, makeovers and panel meltdowns as the un-cancelable series enters its 11th -- yes, 11th -- cycle.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/are-you-smarter-than-a-5th-grader/1237807/main' target='_blank'>'Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?'</a></font>

Airs Fri., 8PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 5

<b>Last Season:</b> Contestants were embarrassed to discover that they were really only smarter than 4th graders. <b>What's Next?</b> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/jeff-foxworthy/280169' target='_blank'>Jeff Foxworthy</a> graciously makes more people look like idiots, though secretly they all DO know what a right angle is.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/the-big-bang-theory/1342113/main' target='_blank'>'The Big Bang Theory'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 8PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 22

<b>Last Season:</b> Nerdy Leonard and ditzy Penny shared their first date, while Sheldon tried, unsuccessfully, to learn Chinese. <b>What's Next?</b> The return of Sarah Gilbert as Leslie Winkle, lady scientist and Leonard's former flame... but all we really want is an extended version of that rockin' theme song.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/the-biggest-loser/74752/main' target='_blank'>'The Biggest Loser'</a></font>

Airs Tue., 8PM on NBC | Premieres Sept. 16

<b>Last Season:</b> Ali Vincent became the U.S. edition's first female winner, losing 112 pounds. <b>What's Next?</b> As the subtitle suggests, season 6 pits teams comprised of two family members against each other. Despite its slim premise, formerly 90-minute episodes balloon to two hours.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/bones/208653/main' target='_blank'>'Bones'</a></font>

Airs Wed., 8PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 3

<b>Last Season:</b> Bones' father was jailed for murder, Bones & Booth locked lips ... and oh, yeah, Zack was serial killer Gormogon's disciple. <b>What's Next?</b> The premiere's a two-hour London-set ep -- Bones is guest lecturing at Oxford, and Booth is at Scotland Yard when they're asked to help solve a murder. Pip, pip, cheerio.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/boston-legal/219089/main' target='_blank'>'Boston Legal'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 10PM on ABC | Premieres Sept. 22

<b>Last Season:</b> Shirley and Carl broke up. Denny and Alan drank a lot of scotch -- and joined the Coast Guard. <b>What's Next?</b> Lorraine is out, as is Clarence (who didn't have much to do last season anyway). <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/jane-lynch/43934' target='_blank'>Jane Lynch</a> returns in a guest spot as a sex therapist, and an old flame of Alan's shows up (as they tend to do).

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/brothers-and-sisters/762055/main' target='_blank'>'Brothers and Sisters'</a></font>

Airs Sun., 10PM on ABC | Premieres Sept. 28

<b>Last Season:</b> Kevin and Scotty tied the knot, Uncle Saul came out and Rebecca revealed that she's not a Walker (there's <i>another</i> "R" Walker!). <b>What's Next?</b> We'll meet mystery Walker sibling Ryan, there're big changes at Ojai, Kitty and Robert look into adopting and (finally!) more Justin/Rebecca lovin'.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/chuck/1329189/main' target='_blank'>'Chuck'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 8PM on NBC | Premieres Sept. 29

<b>Last Season:</b> Questions came up about whether Chuck is still "necessary" as the intersect. <b>What's Next?</b> Chuck and Sarah make-outs, wedding planning for Ellie and Awesome and major guest stars like <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/nicole-richie/383842' target='_blank'>Nicole Richie</a>, <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/john-larroquette/40616' target='_blank'>John Larroquette</a>, <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/melinda-clarke/228441' target='_blank'>Melinda Clarke</a> and <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/jordana-brewster/269136' target='_blank'>Jordana Brewster.</a>

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/cold-case/67748/main' target='_blank'>'Cold Case'</a></font>

Airs Sun., 9PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 28

<b>Last Season:</b> Lilly faced her demons after getting shot and learning of her mother's death. She continued to solve mysteries, but clashed with a narcotics officer, Saccardo (<A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/bobby-cannavale/240595' target='_blank'>Bobby Cannavale</a>). <b>What's Next:</b> The team puts its sleuthing skills to work solving deaths of a college football player, inner city school teacher and marine.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/criminal-minds/206553/main' target='_blank'>'Criminal Minds'</a></font>

Airs Wed., 9PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 24

<b>Last Season:</b> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/joe-mantegna/45196' target='_blank'>Joe Mantegna</a> replaced serial show-ditcher <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/mandy-patinkin/55373' target='_blank'>Mandy Patinkin</a>; in the season finale, a car with a team member inside exploded. <b>What's Next?</b> It depends on whose car was bombed and how severe their injuries are. Will it be Hotch? JJ? We'll find out in the opener.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/csi-crime-scene-investigation/132763/main' target='_blank'>'CSI'</a></font>

Airs Thu., 9PM on CBS | Premieres Oct. 9

<b>Last Season:</b> Sara escaped death, then bailed on Gil and the CSIs. Warrick was shot and left for dead by the undersheriff. <b>What's Next?</b> Major changes: Sara returns for three eps, Grissom leaves 'CSI' later this fall, <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/lauren-lee-smith/303244' target='_blank'>Lauren Lee Smith</a> joins the cast and <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/laurence-fishburne/23625' target='_blank'>Laurence Fishburne</a> joins as Grissom's replacement.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/csi-miami/129686/main' target='_blank'>'CSI: Miami'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 10PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 22

<b>Last Season:</b> Callie was kidnapped and saved, ME Alexx quit and her replacement was killed after a whopping five minutes on the job. Horatio learned he was a father, then was shot (dead?) in the finale. <b>What's Next?</b> Fear not, Horatio and his sunglasses will survive and the search is on to find his shooter.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/csi-ny/130000/main' target='_blank'>'CSI: New York'</a></font>

Airs Wed., 10PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 24

<b>Last Season:</b> Mac was kidnapped in an elaborate bank robbery scheme. <b>What's Next?</b> The team investigates the murder of a woman with ties to the bank robbery -- and Flack. Mac is safe, but as he tracks down the kidnapper he discovers an ever growing trail of bodies.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><a href='http://television.aol.com/show/dancing-with-the-stars/419134/main'target='_blank'>'Dancing With the Stars'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 8PM & Tue., 9PM on ABC | Premieres Sept. 22

<b>Last Season:</b> Olympic champion figure skater <a href='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/kristi-yamaguchi/284157' target='_blank'>Kristi Yamaguchi</a> and her pro partner <a href='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/mark-ballas/527854' target='_blank'>Mark Ballas</a> were crowned. <b>What's Next?</b> Although the official cast won't be announced until August 25, <a href='http://television.aol.com/show/dancing-with-the-stars/419134/tv-show-features/cast-rumors' target='_blank'>rumored contestants</a> include <a href='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/paula-abdul/78920' target='_blank'>Paula Abdul</a>, <a href='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/kim-kardashian/526308' target='_blank'>Kim Kardashian</a>, <a href='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/warren-sapp/283381' target='_blank'>Warren Sapp</a> and <a href='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/lance-bass/296920' target='_blank'>Lance Bass</a>.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/deal-or-no-deal/84789/main' target='_blank'>'Deal or No Deal'</a></font>

Airs Wed., 9PM on NBC | Premieres Aug. 25

<b>Last Season:</b> Despite the Million Dollar Mission and Multi-Million Dollar Madness, contestants failed to bring home the elusive top prize. <b>What's Next?</b> The generous and energetic <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/howie-mandel/44979' target='_blank'>Howie Mandel</a> is once again a man on a mission. Expect new game variations that raise the tension ... and the odds of winning a mil.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/desperate-housewives/379235/main' target='_blank'>'Desperate Housewives'</a></font>

Airs Sun., 9PM on ABC | Premieres Sept. 28

<b>Last Season:</b> The show fast-forwarded five years into the future, in which Susan is married (not to Mike), Lynette's got hellraising teens, Bree's the new Martha Stewart and a frumpy Gaby has two kids. <b>What's Next?</b> Expect plenty of flashbacks, new neighbors and a fresh mystery on Wisteria Lane. And don't fret for Mike; he'll be dropping by.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/dirty-sexy-money/1342101/main' target='_blank'>'Dirty Sexy Money'</a></font>

Airs Wed., 10PM on ABC | Premieres Oct. 1

<b>Last Season:</b> Karen and Simon Elder's relationship was all a Tripp Darling scheme; Nick and Lisa finally got on the same page. <b>What's Next?</b> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/lucy-liu/267831' target='_blank'>Lucy Liu</a> joins the cast as Nola, a lawyer, and Letitia Darling is put on trial for the murder of Nick's dad (her ex-lover) Dutch. Plus, Simon Elder's son enters the picture.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/dont-forget-the-lyrics/1342167/main' target='_blank'>'Don't Forget the Lyrics'</a></font>

Airs Fri., 9PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 12

<b>Last Season:</b> In addition to regular Joes warbling the wrong words, celeb contestant Kimberley Locke botched the lyrics on a song that would have won her $1 million. <b>What's Next?</b> More messy lyrics, off-key crooning, awkward victory dances, famous guests and smug smiles from host <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/wayne-brady/241669' target='_blank'>Wayne Brady</a>.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/eli-stone/1342102/main' target='_blank'>'Eli Stone'</a></font>

Airs Tue., 10PM on ABC | Premieres Oct. 14

<b>Last Season:</b> Sick of having <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/george-michael/102703' target='_blank'>George Michael</a> visions, Eli got his aneurysm removed; while on the operating table he met God, who looked exactly like ... George Michael. <b>What's Next?</b> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/katie-holmes/225994' target='_blank'>Katie Holmes</a> guest-stars as a nonprofit lawyer who will surely be singing, dancing, and convincing Eli to do the right thing.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/er/49782/main' target='_blank'>'ER'</a></font>

Airs Thu., 10PM on NBC | Premieres Sept. 25

<b>Last Season:</b> Abby and Luka made plans to leave Chicago, while an ambulance with a doctor inside blew up. <b>What's Next?</b> The staff mourns a death, new interns arrive and Neela gets a visit from Dr. Barnett (<A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/shane-west/273685' target='_blank'>Shane West</a>). Plus, <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/noah-wyle/77708' target='_blank'>Noah Wyle</a> (and maybe other former stars) return to close the 'ER' doors for good.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/everybody-hates-chris/140065/main' target='_blank'>'Everybody Hates Chris'</a></font>

Airs Fri., 8PM on CW | Premieres Oct. 3

<b>Last Season:</b> Chris graduated from junior high; and it appeared that Chris and Greg won't be going to the same school in the fall. <b>What's Next?</b> The show is moving to Fridays (ouch). Chris struggles in his move up to high school, while Drew continues to make it all look so easy.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/extreme-makeover-home-edition/188636/main' target='_blank'>'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition'</a></font>

Airs Sun., 8PM on ABC | Premieres Sept. 28, 7PM

<b>Last Season:</b> The team completed its two-year mission to do extreme makeovers in all 50 states, capping it off by building a home for New Orleans firefighters and fixing a Katrina-ravaged church. <b>What's Next?</b> More emotional makeovers, more screaming Ty and more two-hankie Sundays.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/family-guy/99723/main' target='_blank'>'Family Guy'</a></font>

Airs Sun., 9PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 28

<b>Last Season:</b> More crude jokes (poor <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/michael-j-fox/24577/' target='_blank'>Michael J. Fox</a>) and cultural references (a <A HREF='http://www.moviefone.com/movie/star-wars-episode-iv-a-new-hope/7512/main' target='_blank'>'Star Wars'</a> ep!). AND Stewie killed Lois ... sort of. <b>What's Next?</b> Cleveland moves to Virginia (setting up his <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/the-cleveland-show/10235906/main' target='_blank'>spin-off</a>), Stewie and Brian time travel, another 'Stars Wars' parody airs, <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/james-woods/117297' target='_blank'>James Woods</a> returns and (of course) the show offends more celebs.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/the-game/942754/main' target='_blank'>'The Game'</a></font>

Airs Fri., 8:30PM on CW | Premieres Oct. 3

<b>Last Season:</b> Kelly walked out on Jason, Malik married Givens and Melanie showed up at Derwin's door -- just when he discovered Janay might be pregnant with his child. <b>What's Next?</b> Melanie and Derwin's road to reconciliation gets bumpy thanks to the baby revelation, while Tasha revels in a new relationship.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/ghost-whisperer/217592/main' target='_blank'>'Ghost Whisperer'</a></font>

Airs Fri., 8PM on CBS | Premieres Oct. 3

<b>Last Season:</b> Melinda discovered her father was still alive; <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/anne-archer/2102' target='_blank'>Anne Archer</a> guest-starred as her mother. <b>What's Next?</b> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/jamie-kennedy/215606' target='_blank'>Jamie Kennedy</a> joins as a psychic named Eli and Melinda reunites with a high school friend played by guest star <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/rachael-leigh-cook/199005' target='_blank'>Rachael Leigh Cook</a>.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/gossip-girl/1341968/main' target='_blank'>'Gossip Girl'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 8PM on CW | Premieres Sept. 1

<b>Last Season:</b> After splitting with Dan, Serena took off for the Hamptons with Nate, while Blair and Chuck were running away together<br>-- or were they? <b>What's Next?</b> Romance for everyone, including a rebound guy for Blair (jealous, Chuck?) and a Hamptons love affair for Nate.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/greys-anatomy/426427/main' target='_blank'>'Grey's Anatomy'</a></font>

Airs Thu., 9PM on ABC | Premieres Sept. 25

<b>Last Season:</b> Alex kissed Izzie, Callie kissed Erica Hahn and Meredith and Derek FINALLY got together -- for realz, this time. We think. <b>What's Next?</b> Cristina gets a love interest; <a href="http://television.aol.com/celebrity/jeffrey-dean-morgan/50599" target="_blank">Jeffrey Dean Morgan</a> returns as dead Denny, so troublemaker <a href="http://television.aol.com/celebrity/katherine-heigl/31545" target="_blank">Katherine Heigl</a> probably won't be killed off (though maybe they meet in heaven?).

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><a href='http://television.aol.com/show/heroes/942757/main'target='_blank'>'Heroes'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 9PM on NBC | Premieres Sept. 22, 8PM

<b>Last Season:</b> Noah Bennet was killed, then revived by Claire's blood; Nathan was shot before he could reveal his powers to the world. <b>What's Next?</b> Sylar's back -- and he's more evil than ever. Also: Claire has a revelation, Hiro sees a horrific future and meets a speedy new hero, and at least one person gains new powers.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/house/113097/main' target='_blank'>'House'</a></font>

Airs Tue., 8PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 16

<b>Last Season:</b> House and Wilson's friendship was put to the ultimate test -- can Wilson see past his girlfriend's death and forgive his buddy? <b>What's Next?</b> A new face in the hospital: guest star (and possible spin-off star) <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/michael-weston/267991' target='_blank'>Michael Weston</a> will play a private eye. And we'll finally get scoop on Cameron and Chase!

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/how-i-met-your-mother/152522/main' target='_blank'>'How I Met Your Mother'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 8:30PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 22

<b>Last Season:</b> After a "near-death" experience, Ted proposed to girlfriend Stella (<A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/sarah-chalke/12099' target='_blank'>Sarah Chalke</a>). Meanwhile, Barney was left in a full-body cast after being hit by a bus in front of the hospital. <b>What's Next?</b> We'll find out whether Stella really is the eponymous 'Mother' and see Barney back in legen -- wait for it -- dary form.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/king-of-the-hill/51808/main' target='_blank'>'King of the Hill'</a></font>

Airs Sun., 8:30PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 28

<b>Last Season:</b> Bobby earned Hank's respect on the football field -- as a cheerleader. Hank's dad Cotton died, and Peggy's bro (Luann's pa) got out of prison ... and was bribed by the family to go away again. <b>What's Next?</b> The underrated 'King' enters its 13th season with a roster of stellar guest stars -- as usual.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/kitchen-nightmares/1341128/main' target='_blank'>'Kitchen Nightmares'</a></font>

Airs Thu., 9PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 11

<b>Last Season:</b> Chef <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/gordon-ramsay/435822' target='_blank'>Gordon Ramsay</a> was called in by struggling restaurateurs to help restore their eateries to glory and profit. <b>What's Next?</b> 'Nightmares' travels internationally -- from Mexico to Italy -- finding really horrific kitchen conditions and inadequate cooking staffs.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/law-and-order-special-victims-unit/100016/main' target='_blank'>'Law & Order: SVU'</a></font>

Airs Tue., 10PM on NBC | Premieres Sept. 23

<b>Last Season:</b> Nearly every perv in the city crawled out from under their rocks to perplex and harass Detectives Benson and Stabler. <b>What's Next?</b> More rocks, more pervs ... and <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/josh-brolin/8657' target='_blank'>Josh Brolin</a> and <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/josh-charles/12415' target='_blank'>Josh Charles</a>, both of whom guest-star (NOT as rapists) in the upcoming season.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/life/1324998/main' target='_blank'>'Life'</a></font>

Airs Fri., 10PM on NBC | Premieres Mon., Sept. 29, 10PM

<b>Last Season:</b> Det. Charlie Crews discovered who committed the murders he was wrongly convicted for. But who planned the frame-up? <b>What's Next?</b> Charlie continues to unravel the conspiracy, while dealing with a new police captain (<A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/donal-logue/42995' target='_blank'>Donal Logue</a>) and his future stepmother (<A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/christina-hendricks/329699' target='_blank'>Christina Hendricks</a>).

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/lipstick-jungle/1342096/main' target='_blank'>'Lipstick Jungle'</a></font>

Airs Wed., 10PM on NBC | Premieres Sept. 24

<b>Last Season:</b> While Nico was with boy toy Kirby, her hubby had a heart attack. Victory ran back to Joe, but he'd already found someone new. <b>What's Next?</b> Nico and Wendy get a new boss (<A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/las-vegas/67800/main' target='_blank'>'Las Vegas'</a> alum <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/james-lesure/237521' target='_blank'>James Lesure</a>), <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/rosie-perez/106101' target='_blank'>Rosie Perez</a> will play a feisty publicist and TV legend <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/mary-tyler-moore/50344' target='_blank'>Mary Tyler Moore</a> drops by as Wendy's mom.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/the-moment-of-truth/10014149/main' target='_blank'>'The Moment of Truth'</a></font>

Airs Thu., 8PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 4

<b>Last Season:</b> Ordinary people spilled their darkest secrets on national TV in hopes of winning large amounts of cash. <b>What's Next?</b> Host <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/mark-l-walberg/367917' target='_blank'>Mark Walberg</a> (no, not <i>that</i> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/mark-wahlberg/198251' target='_blank'>Mark Wahlberg</a>) says season 2 will include questions that don't only focus on sexual indiscretions. Secretly, we kind of hope that's not true.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/my-name-is-earl/165651/main' target='_blank'>'My Name Is Earl'</a></font>

Airs Thu., 8PM on NBC | Premieres Sept. 25

<b>Last Season:</b> Earl awoke from a coma, married his hot "karmic reward" (<A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/alyssa-milano/49075' target='_blank'>Alyssa Milano</a>), then divorced her when she got in the way of his list. <b>What's Next?</b> Earl will again tackle his list in earnest, attempting to atone for such transgressions as dashing the dreams of a former Make-a-Wish child (<A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/seth-green/28493' target='_blank'>Seth Green</a>) who wanted to star in an action movie.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/ncis/163063/main' target='_blank'>'NCIS'</a></font>

Airs Tue., 8PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 23

<b>Last Season:</b> The team was disbanded: Director Jenny Shephard (<A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/lauren-holly/32946' target='_blank'>Lauren Holly</a>) was killed, Ziva was shipped to Israel, McGee moved to the cyber crimes unit, Tony was sent to sea and Gibbs got a new team. <b>What's Next?</b> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/rocky-carroll/11332' target='_blank'>Rocky Carroll</a> will become a series regular, meaning new director Vance is here to stay. Plus, we'll get to meet the new team.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/the-new-adventures-of-old-christine/173930/main' target='_blank'>'The New Adventures of Old Christine'</a></font>

Airs Wed., 8PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 24

<b>Last Season:</b> Barb and Matthew hooked up, but Christine forbade them from having a relationship. <b>What's Next?</b> Rumors have been swirling of a gay marriage between Christine and best pal Barb on a show that's never been afraid to push the envelope. Barb <i>does</i> love those Campbells ...

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/numb3rs/223961/main' target='_blank'>'Numb3rs'</a></font>

Airs Fri., 10PM on CBS | Premieres Oct. 3

<b>Last Season:</b> Charlie's security clearance was revoked, leaving him unable to work on FBI cases. <b>What's Next?</b> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/diane-farr/362413' target='_blank'>Diane Farr's</a> off the show, but <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/sophina-brown/365748' target='_blank'>Sophina Brown</a> (<A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/shark/762070/main' target='_blank'>'Shark'</a>) joins Don's team. And if Charlie wants his clearance back, he'll have to contend with a Fed played by the inimitable <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/keith-carradine/84256' target='_blank'>Keith Carradine</a>.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/the-office/152542/main' target='_blank'>'The Office'</a></font>

Airs Thu., 9PM on NBC | Premieres Sept. 25

<b>Last Season:</b> Jim's proposal to Pam was foiled when Andy proposed to Angela. Then came the Angela-Dwight sex scene. Shudder. <b>What's Next?</b> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/amy-ryan/264377' target='_blank'>Amy Ryan's</a> back as Michael's love interest, though he'll be busy helping Jan have a baby that isn't his. Five bucks he busts out a "that's what she said" at the shower.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/one-tree-hill/188504/main' target='_blank'>'One Tree Hill'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 9PM on CW | Premieres Sept. 1

<b>Last Season:</b> Lucas yearned for Lindsay, Peyton yearned for Lucas, Brooke yearned for a baby, Nathan yearned for the NBA and evil Dan yearned for a heart (transplant). <b>What's Next?</b> We learn whom Lucas called to get hitched in Vegas with him, and what happened to Dan after he was hit by a car.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/prison-break/422516/main' target='_blank'>'Prison Break'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 9PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 1, 8PM

<b>Last Season:</b> Linc reunited with his son, while Michael, still smarting from Sara's beheading, headed off for some revenge. <b>What's Next?</b> The action will jump forward a month, showing what befell the various Sona escapees in flashbacks. And Dr. Sara (<A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/sarah-wayne-callies/378135' target='_blank'>Sarah Wayne Callies</a>) will return, head and all.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/private-practice/1342108/main' target='_blank'>'Private Practice'</a></font>

Airs Wed., 9PM on ABC | Premieres Oct. 1

<b>Last Season:</b> Addison found her groove in sunny L.A. after leaving the drama of Seattle Grace behind (mostly). <b>What's Next?</b> The first episode picks up right where last season left off. And <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/grant-show/65454' target='_blank'>Grant Show</a> swings in for a cameo as the ex of one of the docs. No word on if his 'stache makes the trip too.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/pushing-daisies/1342106/main' target='_blank'>'Pushing Daisies'</a></font>

Airs Wed., 8PM on ABC | Premieres Oct. 1

<b>Last Season:</b> Ned finally told Chuck that he was responsible for her dad's death and Aunt Lily let it slip that she's actually Chuck's <i>mother</i>! <b>What's Next?</b> Chuck moves into Olive's place and Olive joins a nunnery with Lily (look out for a 'Hills Are Alive' moment). Chuck lands a sweet job and the gang joins the circus. To solve a murder, sillies.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/samantha-who/1342103/main' target='_blank'>'Samantha Who?'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 9:30PM on ABC | Premieres Oct. 6

<b>Last Season:</b> Sam and Todd had an affair while he was dating someone else, but he broke up with her for Sam, who then decided they shouldn't date. Todd thinks they should start fresh. <b>What's Next?</b> Look for Samantha and Todd to re-discover each other, and also a big dance episode and one that's told mostly in flashback.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/the-simpsons/62653/main' target='_blank'>'The Simpsons'</a></font>

Airs Sun., 8PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 28

<b>Last Season:</b> The season featured Bart's nemesis Sideshow Bob, Homer's crush Lurleen Lumpkin and the family's maternal grandma. <b>What's Next?</b> Biting social satire and pop-culture references, as well as celeb guests like <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/matt-damon/16762' target='_blank'>Matt Damon</a>, and an ep penned by <A HREF='http://www.moviefone.com/movie/superbad/26917/main' target='_blank'>'Superbad'</a> scribes <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/seth-rogen/297862' target='_blank'>Seth Rogen</a> and <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/evan-goldberg/439131' target='_blank'>Evan Goldberg</a>.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/smallville/75304/main' target='_blank'>'Smallville'</a></font>

Airs Thu., 8PM on CW | Premieres Sept. 4

<b>Last Season:</b> Lana awoke from her coma and fled, and Clark and Lex met for a cliffhanger showdown at the Fortress of Solitude. <b>What's Next?</b> With Lex and Lana departing as series regulars, Clark will get a new villain to combat (Doomsday) and a new love interest (Lois, perhaps?), as well as a job as a reporter for the Daily Planet.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/supernanny/129874/main' target='_blank'>'Supernanny'</a></font>

Airs Fri., 9PM on ABC | Premieres Oct. 3

<b>Last Season:</b> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/jo-frost/431253' target='_blank'>Jo Frost</a> helped parents at the end of their rope. <b>What's Next?</b> There's a certain pop star who might benefit from JoJo's intervention, and Frost has said she'd be happy to help (you know who you are ... <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/britney-spears/301848' target='_blank'>Britney</a>). But we doubt that'll come to pass. Darn.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/supernatural/422501/main' target='_blank'>'Supernatural'</a></font>

Airs Thu., 9PM on CW | Premieres Sept. 4

<b>Last Season:</b> Dean bartered his life with a demon to save Sam, and in the cliffhanger finale, Dean was trapped in Hades. <b>What's Next?</b> There'll be one all black-and-white episode, and Dean goes back in time to find out more about his parents and the origins of his family's demon-hunting ways.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1C5BB0'>'Survivor: Gabon'</font>

Airs Thu., 8PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 18

<b>Last Season:</b> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/survivor-micronesia-fans-vs-favorites/10143381/main' target='_blank'>'Micronesia'</a> pitted super-fans against former 'Survivors' -- and yielded some of the series' most compelling moments. <b>What's Next?</b> Host <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/jeff-probst/242430' target='_blank'>Jeff Probst</a> said dangerous animals caused problems -- and he didn't mean the players. Gabon's wildness should add even more drama (beyond the backstabbing kind).

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/terminator-the-sarah-connor-chronicles/1342122/main' target='_blank'>'Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 8PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 8

<b>Last Season:</b> Cromartie tracked down John and Sarah, who escaped with guns blazing. And Derek's distrust of Cameron may be right on. <b>What's Next?</b> Cam survived the season-ending explosion, Shirley Manson (singer from Garbage) joins the cast as a new baddie and John grows into his role of rebel fighter extraordinaire.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/til-death/875166/main' target='_blank'>'Til Death'</a></font>

Airs Wed., 9PM on Fox | Premieres Sept. 10

<b>Last Season:</b> In a battle to one-up Joy's anniversary gift, Eddie learned how to swim so he could take Joy snorkeling in Hawaii. <b>What's Next?</b> Expect more marital hijinks for combative long-married couple Eddie and Joy and wide-eyed newlywed neighbors Jeff and Steph.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/two-and-a-half-men/67786/main' target='_blank'>'Two and a Half Men'</a></font>

Airs Mon., 9PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 22

<b>Last Season:</b> Evelyn's [dead] husband and Charlie's short-term fiance were revealed to be lovers and con artists in a surprisingly funny <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/csi-crime-scene-investigation/132763/main' target='_blank'>'CSI'</a> crossover. Oh yeah, and Charlie shagged tons of women. <b>What's Next?</b> Everyone's single. Charlie and Alan continue their crass conquests ... well, maybe only Charlie does.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/ugly-betty/762061/main' target='_blank'>'Ugly Betty'</a></font>

Airs Thu., 8PM on ABC | Premieres Sept. 25

<b>Last Season:</b> Love was in the air last season; it ended with Betty torn between moving to Tucson with Henry or going to Rome with Gio. <b>What's Next?</b> Assume Betty's flying solo for now, since the actors who play her love interests aren't moving with the show to New York. <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/lindsay-lohan/241579' target='_blank'>Lindsay Lohan</a> will still be around though, as Betty's childhood bully.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/the-unit/165553/main' target='_blank'>'The Unit'</a></font>

Airs Sun., 10PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 28

<b>Last Season:</b> The team lost a friend (Hector) and then was broken up while the mens' loyalties were tested. Tom's wife, Charlotte, turned out to be a snake in the grass (duh!). <b>What's Next?</b> In the premiere episode, Mack gets macked on by a female operative and <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/the-shield/77787/main' target='_blank'>'The Shield''s</a> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/benito-martinez/349351' target='_blank'>Benito Martinez</a> guests.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/wife-swap/374828/main' target='_blank'>'Wife Swap'</a></font>

Airs Fri., 8PM on ABC | Premieres Oct. 3

<b>Last Season:</b> Memorable wives/mothers who switched places included a burlesque queen and a lumberjack. <b>What's Next?</b> More polar opposites trading kin, learning lessons and, at times, wreaking havoc on their own lives.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/without-a-trace/79920/main' target='_blank'>'Without a Trace'</a></font>

Airs Tue., 10PM on CBS | Premieres Sept. 23

<b>Last Season:</b> Jack went off the rails and was demoted after getting too invested in a teen he saved from sex traffickers. <b>What's Next?</b> The series moves to Tuesday nights (yay!). Will Jack try to play baby-daddy to Sam's son? <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/steven-weber/75202' target='_blank'>Steven Weber</a> joins the cast as Jack's replacement.

Fall TV Returning Shows: Previews & Spoilers

<font color='#1c5bb0'><A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/20-20/62063/main' target='_blank'>'20/20'</a></font>

Airs Fri., 10PM on ABC | Premieres Sept. 19

<b>Last Season:</b> ABC's version of <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/60-minutes/62064/main' target='_blank'>'60 Minutes'</a> marked its 30th anniversary of investigation. <b>What's Next?</b> <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/show/60-minutes/62064/main' target='_blank'>Elizabeth Vargas</a> and <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/john-stossel/68563' target='_blank'>John Stossel</a> cover a motley mix of salacious pop-culture and news stories such as why the <A HREF='http://television.aol.com/celebrity/jonas-brothers/549738' target='_blank'>Jonas Brothers</a> are so popular and the real lives of polygamists. Woohoo!