What to watch during the Olympics if you don’t want to watch the Olympics
Olympic mania has hijacked our televisions and left many TV viewers without anything to watch besides sports. Or, at least, that's what we assumed by certain television networks devoting their entire schedule to Olympic coverage. But fear not, couch potatoes! There's still plenty of TV left for those who are uninterested in competition or medal ceremonies, and all is not lost if you need a break from the bombardment of athleticism.
Thanks to some borderline-obsessive sleuthing on our part, we've rounded up the best of the non-Olympic TV shows for each night of the week. TV's not just for gold medal ceremonies anymore! Check in next week for Part 2 of our non-Olympic TV schedule.
Friday July 27, 9 p.m. ET - "Best In Show" (Citytv)
This 2000 film (starring comedy legends like Catherine O'Hara, Eugene Levy, and Christopher Gues) sees some seriously bizarre character face off at Mayflower Kennel Dog Club Show, where all bets are off during this stiff competition. Talk about evoking the Olympic spirit.
Saturday July 28, 10 p.m. ET - "The Bourne Supremacy" (Showcase)
The second installment of the Matt Damon-led "Bourne" franchise sees the troubled assassin react to the death of his girlfriend by seeking vengeance and answers. Arguably the fastest way to re-kindle your love for the trilogy, you'll have no trouble remembering why we should check out Jeremy Renner this August in "The Bourne Legacy" as he takes over the franchise.
Sunday, July 29, 8 p.m. ET - "The Devil Wears Prada" (CBC)
It's a lot easier to face Monday morning when your boss isn't Miranda Priestly, so use the 2006 Meryl Streep comedy to remember that work isn't so bad. And speaking of "Bad"...
ALSO Sunday, July 29, 10 p.m. ET - "Breaking Bad" (AMC)
The last season (in two parts) of what critics have coined the best show on television promises to be darker, grittier, and more haunting than the last four. Even a gold medal game can't rival Jesse, Walt, and Mike -- so make sure you don't miss a minute.
Monday, July 30, 8 p.m. ET - "Bachelor Pad" (Citytv, ABC)
Considering it's a "Bachelor" franchise favourite, use what can arguably be described as "Survivor" gone awry to fill the void "The Bachelorette" left behind. While this season probably won't end in as much romance or roses, you'll still get the competition of a sports game with the "reality" of falling in love. (We know -- we miss "Jersey Shore," too.)
Tuesday, July 31, 9 and 10 p.m. ET - "Trust Us With Your Life" (ABC)
We all love to laugh, so why not let that happen with a show that sees celebrities (like Ricky Gervais and David Hasselhoff this week) reminisce about their past using improv games? Following the rough format of "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" you can watch to see who breaks under pressure and what will inevitably become an Internet meme. Hasselhoff with a hamburger not guaranteed.
Wednesday, August 1, 8 p.m. ET - "Big Brother" (CBS/Global)
True, it runs three nights of the week, but considering Wednesdays offer the most drama and pandemonium, you've got to treat yourself to the wacky hijinks of even more strangers in a house. Think of it like the Olympic village on Opposite Day.
Thursday, August 2, 10 30 p.m. ET - "Louie" (FX Canada)
Despite his "Best Comedy" Emmy snub, Louis C.K. lives up to his unreachable reputation with the show's third season, which has already seen guest spots by Gaby Hoffman, Melissa Leo, and Parker Posey. Considering this season has already matched its last two in terms of jokes, thought-provocation, and cringe-worthy moments, there's nowhere for it to go but up -- so check it out for yourself.
Friday, August 3, 8 p.m. ET - "House" (FOX)
After eight stirring seasons, "House" wrapped last month, and FOX is giving you the chance to relive the conclusion with its re-airing of the series finale. Think of it this way: if you bawl through the end, you won't have to explain your puffy eyes at work the next day. That, and you can battle through your grief with...
Saturday, August 4, 8 p.m. ET - "Pawn Stars" (History)
Sometimes, Saturdays call for zoning out. And if you're had a particularly stressful week, live vicariously through History's "Pawn Stars," who may at the very least inspire you to spend Sunday bartering at second-hand shops throughout your town (which some fans may argue is a sport in and of itself).
Sunday, August 5, 10 p.m. "Breaking Bad," (AMC)
There's just no reason why you should be missing it.
Don't forget to check back next week for Part 2 of our non-Olympic coverage.
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