Angel

If you tune in to on Oct. 1, don’t be alarmed if some other unrecognizable show is airing in Angel’s place. Things are going to be a little different this season. After a much buzzed departure, a comatose Cordy (Charisma Carpenter) is not back as a regular (though she is expected to return for at least one ep). Former producers Tim Minear and David Greenwalt have moved on to other new dramas, leaving creator Joss Whedon back in the driver’s seat. And he’s veering in a whole new direction, thanks to an expanded set that allows for sweeping West Wing-esque walk-and-talks and more grandiose storylines. The gang is now living in the Wolfram & Hart headquarters, and they are joined by another bloody good-looking bloodsucker: James Marsters of the dearly departed Buffy. Angel is anguished to learn that he’s cosmically tied to his romantic rival, but frankly, with those ripped abs and piercing blue eyes, we can think of worse fates.