It's not that I have anything against hair styling: I've been known to devour whole seasons of "Blow Out" in a single sitting. But I'm really unsure about Bravo's new competition show, "Shear Genius," which premieres tonight after the "Top Design" finale. I just can't picture how hair cutting could be riveting enough to hold my attention for the next three months. Then again, I would have said the same thing about sewing had "Project Runway" not come along.

But after the lackluster "Top Design" — which won me over somewhat, though it's been a slog — I think Bravo might be spreading itself too thin in the Top Whatever department. For details on "Shear Genius" and to watch some clips, read more

"Shear Genius" looks like it sticks close to the formula: a dozen creative types with explosive personalities, challenges designed to raise the competitive tension, and a host/den mother (Jaclyn Smith, sounding eerily like a robot) who oversees the whole affair. Without a unique spark, "Shear Genius" will need likable — or lovably hate-able — contestants and good pacing (don't spend half the episode on judging, please!) if it's going to be worth watching. I'll check out the first couple of episodes, at least; what about you? Check out this intro to the series and a clip from the first challenge and let me know.

Photo courtesy of Bravo