By this time next month, the Fall TV schedule will be set. Starting with NBC in a couple of weeks, each network will piece together its programming slate, including which current series will return and which new pilots will get a shot at success. That means it's crunch time for shows that are "on the bubble," with equally good chances they'll get renewed or canceled. The Hollywood Reporter broke down which series have a good shot at returning and which look dead, and a few tidbits jumped out to me as I read its take:

  • Good news, bad news at the CW. This line set off a rollercoaster of emotions: "Over at the CW, Reaper is gone, while the prospects for Privileged have improved, and the show is now considered for a possible midseason order." Reaper had been holding its own against American Idol, so I'm surprised the CW would dismiss it so quickly, but at least we've gotten two seasons of it. Privileged definitely seems like it deserves another shot — especially if it could air during one of these extended breaks from Gossip Girl.
  • A bunch of shows are really 50/50. Among the ones considered true toss-ups: Chuck (whose chances are said to be hurt by Southland's early success but whose fans are vocal), Dollhouse, and CBS's Without a Trace and Cold Case — of which only one is expected to return.
  • Good news for some midseason shows. Even though none of ABC's midseason shows have been blockbuster hits, Better Off Ted, Castle, and The Unusuals are all considered possibilities to return next year. (Cupid, however, seems dead already.)
  • Say farewell to . . . In addition to Cupid and Reaper, things are reportedly not looking good for Life, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, or Eleventh Hour.

Check out the full story and tell me what you think. How are things looking for your favorites?

Photo courtesy of The CW