Guest Author - Amy Ralston Young

Well, CBS is doing their part to keep fresh shows on the air – granted they have a lot of rerun time too. With their steady flow of reality shows (you don’t need writers for those, right?) and the decision to borrow shows from their sister network Showtime (“Dexter”); CBS seems to be doing okay through the strike.

Now comes the announcement of a new sitcom, set to premiere Monday, February 4, “Welcome to the Captain.” The comedy was ordered as a mid-season replacement last year, so it probably only has about six to ten episodes completed, but that will buy the network a month or so to continue hoping for an end to the strike.

“Captain” centers on Josh (Fran Kranz), a one-time Hollywood hotshot who now needs a fresh start. Josh’s friend Marty (Chris Klein) convinces him to move into a legendary Hollywood apartment building, El Captain. Once he arrives, he discovers that the tenants march to the beat of their own drums.

Klein’s Marty is an accountant with serious commitment issues. After his live in girlfriend finds him with the shampoo girl, Marty soon becomes homeless and moves in with a not-so-thrilled Josh. Still, he just might be the most normal resident.

Jeffrey Tambor plays Saul Fish, but you can call him Uncle Saul. Saul is a one-time Hollywood writer who now spends his time eavesdropping on other residents and ruining the local golf course.

Raquel Welch plays the resident cougar, Charlene. She is a little too comfortable with her sexuality.

Al Madrigal plays Jesus, the daytime attendant, and Saul’s co-conspirator. Jesus loves gossip and is completely lazy and unhelpful. What a great attendant!

Joanna Garcia plays Hope. She’s an acupuncturist and quickly becomes the object of Josh’s affections.

Although this will be the first sitcom for Kranz, who has numerous movie roles under his belt, the experience of the remaining cast more than makes up for his uneasiness. Haven't you missed Tambor since "Arrested Development" went off the air? His style of humor is incomparable. Plus, I always loved Garcia on "Reba," and I am glad she's back on television.

Like with all shows, only time - or the first two episodes will tell if it will be successful, but I am holding out hope.

Another plus, look for an appearance by Joey Fatone.