The TV Zone

And you thought the networks were kidding about adding reality shows to the schedule as their scripted dramas wither away because of the writers' strike?

NBC has just scheduled "Clash of the Choirs," a four-night live “sing off” event (Dec. 17-20).

OK, I know you're probably thinking that it will be awfully cool to see a bunch of folks in white robes bash each other over the heads with chairs.

Alas. that's some other program, no doubt incubating, as I write this, in some mad programmers' mind.

This "Clash of the Choirs" features five top musical acts -- Michael Bolton, Patti LaBelle, Nick Lachey, Kelly Rowland and Blake Shelton -- going back to their hometowns, assembling 20 talented local singers into a kick-butt choir and then throwing the songbirds into live competition. Each night, another choir will be voted off until one remains.

What will they think of next? Don't ask