TV WEEKLY RECAP: Anthony Michael Hall, Mario Batali and more!

I ran into my favorite ‘80s icon, Anthony Michael Hall, at the Ion Television Upfront, held at the New York Public Library, last night. His series, The Dead Zone, has taken up residence on the network. “It ran for six seasons on USA. To find a new life in syndication is a real gift,” Anthony shared. More importantly, he remembered me from the time we met last year, giving me a big kiss upon our greeting. I’ll never wash this cheek again!

I’m convinced that reality producer Mark Burnett has a not-so-secret goal for world TV network domination. At the History Channel upfront dinner Monday night, Mark presented his newest offering, Expedition: Livingstone. The reality docu-series, slated to premiere on the network in 2009, will follow five explorers armed only with a compass, map and journals as they recreate the famous journey across Africa in 1869 to find Dr. Livingstone. “We’re re-telling history through the lens of modern-day adventurers,” Mark explained, “and that’s really about good storytelling.” Mark stayed mum on naming an A-lister he believed could survive the challenge. Come on, Mark. I’m just trying to get the scoop on the inevitable celebrity edition!

Now that Lucy Walsh has been sent home, I can't wait to see who'll emerge from Rock the Cradle's final three. Jesse Blaze Snider, Crosby Loggins and Chloe Lattanzi—how do you choose? I guess it matters what you like to listen to more when you break out the oldies collection: Twisted Sister, Loggins and Messina or the Grease soundtrack.

The biggest hazard of my job? Not recognizing the talent you’re supposed to be interviewing. That’s what happened to me at the premiere party for the docudrama The Chicken, the Fish and the King Crab, hosted by LIVEstyle’s Supper Club at Del Posto restaurant in New York City Saturday night. Even though host and restaurateur Mario Batali was in his signature shorts, my brain synapsed and I couldn’t remember his name. He good-naturedly joked that it was “Alfonso,” when I asked. Luckily, I recognized Top Chef’s Ted Allen, who was on hand to sample the wines, ham and olive oils flown in directly from the movie's location, Madrid, Spain. Now that’s good eating!