Bette

I really really want to give this show some big scores, but I'm finding myself at odds.



I've been a very big Bette Midler fan since her debut in the Rose (I didn't get to see it until years later but just that magical voice on the soundtrack drew me in).



Bette is definitely the driving (if not ONLY) force keeping this barge afloat. Joanna Gleason adds a little pinache here and there, but shows aren't made by broadway pinache.



If history is any indication, this show will not make it to a second season. No matter how good the star is, without good writing and good co-stars, it'll be lying next to the Titanic in no time.



You can have awful, horrible main characters, but like Seinfeld and Everybody Loves Raymond, the shows were terribly successful despite their star's lack of talent. It was the supporting players and writing that made these shows work.



This show is a good example of "No man (or woman) is an Island" tv.



That said, this outing sees most of the focus on Bette herself which is a relief. She shines and is very consistent with her comedy.



I wonder if she's figured out yet that her writers either just don't have it or are out to get her?



Hey Bette....call Roseanne! NOW!