TV Q&A: 'The Americans' to return on FX

Akron Beacon Journal

Q: My husband and I have been watching the NBC series "Allegiance" from its beginning when suddenly another series, "The Slap," came on in its place. We never knew why "Allegiance" was removed.

A: NBC pulled "Allegiance," a series about Russian spies in America, after five telecasts because of low ratings, and because the numbers declined as it continued.

It had more viewers than "The Americans," also about Russian spies in America, though in a different time and situation. But broadcast shows such as "Allegiance" are generally expected to do better than programs on cable. And even by cable standards, the ratings for "The Americans" are relatively small.

Still, "The Americans" is a show with a passionate following and considerable praise from critics, especially for its current season, and that has been enough for FX to order another season of the series.

As for seeing "Allegiance" on the air, that appears unlikely. NBC has been making it available on other platforms, gradually adding unaired episodes on NBC.com, Hulu.com and On Demand.

Q: Can you tell me if "Beauty and the Beast" is coming back?

Q: Juliet Barnes in the TV show "Nashville" is expecting. In real life is Hayden Panettiere expecting? And on the special live shows with "Nashville" stars at the Grand Ole Opry, why isn't Connie Britton singing?

A: Panettiere and boxer Wladimir Klitschko welcomed a baby daughter in December. So yes, she has really been pregnant in episodes of the ABC series.

Britton's schedule has reportedly kept her from participating in the concert shows. Also, she is not a professional musician while many of her co-stars are.