NBC adds 6 series; other shows left in limbo

NBC sort of announced what part of its 2008-2009 lineup will look like, but it left open a whole lot of questions that won't be answered for another couple of weeks.

Network executives unveiled half a dozen new series and renewed some others, but they won't announce their fall schedule until May 19.

As to scheduling, the only thing we know for sure is that Jay Leno's prime-time show will air Monday-Fridays at 9 p.m. MT.

(And, even then, there are reports that NBC is stockpiling mid-season replacement shows — including hour-long dramas — in the event that Leno's show doesn't do well in the ratings.)

NBC confirmed renewals for a slew of shows, including:

 "The Biggest Loser,"

 "Celebrity Apprentice,"

 "Friday Night Lights,"

 "Heroes,"

 "Law & Order: SVU,"

 "The Office,"

 "Parks and Recreation,"

 "Southland,"

 and "30 Rock."

But the biggest news may be the ones that weren't on that list. The network is still mulling its option on "Chuck," which may or may not be back for its third season.

Other shows that remain on the bubble include "Law & Order," which was looking to produce its 20th season (tying "Gunsmoke," the longest-running show in prime-time TV history).

There's no news yet on "My Name Is Earl," which may or may not return to NBC. Or, if you believe some reports, might be moving to Fox.

And, while there are reports that NBC is bring back "Medium" — perhaps for something between 13 and 18 episodes (instead of a full season of 22), nobody at the network confirmed that.

The new shows NBC announced include four dramas (descriptions are from the network):

 "Parenthood," a family drama that's a "re-imagining" the 1989 movie. The cast includes Peter Krause, Maura Tierney, Craig T. Nelson, Bonnie Bedelia and Monica Potter.

 "Trauma" is a "high-octane medical drama" about first-responder paramedics.