2008 Winter TV Preview: Jericho

Jericho - Season 2

Premieres: Tuesday, February 12 at 10 p.m. EST

Network: CBS

Creator(s): Stephen Chbosky, Josh Schaer, Jonathan E. Steinberg

Starring:: Skeet Ulrich, Lennie James, Kenneth Mitchell, Ashley Scott, Pamela Reed, Gerald McRaney, Alicia Coppola, Michael Gaston

Website: CBS.com

What happens when a nuclear mushroom cloud suddenly appears on the horizon? In the case of Jericho, it plunges the residents of a small Kansas town into chaos, leaving them isolated and wondering if they're the only Americans left alive.

In Season One, all communication and power was shut down, and the town started coming apart at the seams, bringing out the best and worst in people. Jake Green (Skeet Ulrich), prodigal son of the town's mayor, is at the center of things, becoming a reluctant hero when a school bus crashes. Mayor Johnston Green (Gerald McRaney) is conflicted with the return of his estranged son, but called into action when the town begins to riot.

Johnston's wife, Gail (Pamela Reed), runs interference between her husband and son. And there are those who crave power, as is the case with Johnston’s political adversary, Gray Anderson (Michael Gaston). A mysterious stranger, a trailer-park kid, a high school sweetheart, and a best friend all play into the storyline, as well.

I have to admit, I’ve avoided watching this show, even though it looks terrific. There are only so many nuclear/terrorist/end-of-the-world shows I can watch at one time, and 24 has been filling that spot quite nicely over the past few years.

But this show looks fantastic, has a great cast, and judging by the previews, an excellent production team. With 24 on hiatus, I think it’s time to buy Season 1 of Jericho and start watching Season 2 tonight. They’re clearly trying to draw viewers in by posting the first five minutes of tonight’s episode on the show's official web site

Here’s a Sneak Peek at Season 2:

For the full 2008 Winter TV Premiere Schedule: CLICK HERE