Could the West Wing (TV show) go GOP?

[Perky]

Will 'The West Wing' go Republican?
With Bartlet term's end in sight, producer thinks of future
Thursday, October 14, 2004 Posted: 12:32 PM EDT (1632 GMT)


LOS ANGELES, California (AP) -- The prospect of a change in the White House tends to draw a strong reaction, pro or con.

Not from "The West Wing" executive producer John Wells, though. He seems unfazed by the coming end of Democratic President Josiah "Jed" Bartlet's tenure -- and maybe even a Republican successor.

"We were a year and a half into the administration when we started the show," Wells said of the NBC drama entering its sixth season. "We have term limits in this country and so, on our electoral schedule, Bartlet's second term would end a year from this coming January."

That fact foreshadows a hybrid season when "The West Wing" returns Wednesday (October 20, 9 p.m. EDT). Bartlet (Martin Sheen) grapples with his legacy while others fight for the chance to replace him.

Among them are contenders played by two familiar actors: Jimmy Smits ("NYPD Blue"), who's a potential Democratic candidate, and Alan Alda ("M*A*S*H") vying for the GOP nomination.

Also in the running is Vice President Russell (Gary Cole), with talented staff member Will Bailey (Josh Malina) at his side.

[xxqqqzme]

1. this is the only democratic

administration I have right now. If it goes rethug...I won't watch. I haven't been real impressed w/ Wells right leaning handling of the show since they booted Sorkin & Schlamme.

[truebrit71]

2. Not if it wants to keep me as a viewer...

eom

[havocmom]

3. Is it still on? What night/network?

Haven't seen it in ages. Husband says he can't find it when he looks for me. Am I just not turning the TV on at the right times?

[Perky]

9. 9:00 Wednesday

Same as always but they dealyed the season opener to move it closer to Novemeber Sweeps. ANd no dubt get some lift out of the real campaign.

[asjr]

4. Yes they will. Next season they will have a Repub candidate

steal the presidential election.

[onehandle]

5. Don't care. No Sorkin. No West Wing. nt

[fameless]

7. Agree.

Last season was terrible, and theres no doubt this season will suck as well.

[Zing Zing Zingbah]

6. That would suck.

I think it is about time for this show to go off the air.

[Cleita]

8. If they do it in a way that exposes what is going on, it

could be great. I think with Sheen gone though the show will probably go corporate and make the R's look like painted saints. Who needs it.