None of this is in any way meant as criticism. Quite the opposite — it's high praise.

I wish advertisers and network executives could see the kick my teenage son gets out of Denny Crane — played by an actor five times his age.

KELLEY IS REACHING back into his TV past for guest stars with some frequency. Both Brook and Arkin starred in his medical drama "Chicago Hope."

And next week, look for a guest appearance by former "L.A. Law" star Corbin Bernsen, 51, who's playing — you guessed it! — a lawyer.

"BOSTON LEGAL" CONTINUES to try to straddle that narrow line between drama with humor and "Ally McBeal"-like farce. And not always successfully.

Tonight's episode ventures into "Ally" territory more than it should. Not only do Shirley and Paul go to a night spot where a song plays into Paul's plotline, but Ivan (Selleck) and his bride-to-be break into song.

Really.

It's time to pull back a bit, Mr. Kelley.

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E-mail: pierce@desnews.com