Weekend watchin'

James Franco hosts 'SNL'—and other weekend TV highlights

By Rebecca Ford

Posted December 17, 2009

Metromix

This is the last weekend when networks can get away with showing back-to-back-to-back holiday specials, so you can be sure they're going to milk that for all it's worth. But if you're tired of watching generic Santa romantic comedies, there's always James Franco and, um, babies to distract you.

Friday, December 18
What: “Frosty the Snowman” and “Frosty Returns”
When: 8 p.m. ET/PT on CBS
Why: Frosty, that "jolly, happy soul" whose old silk hat is full of magic will make back-to-back appearances this Friday. In the animated musical original, Frosty sets off for the North Pole to keep from melting. In the sequel, a new invention, a snow-removal spray called Summer Wheeze, threatens Frosty's very existence. Based on a true story.

Also on Friday: “ABC World News with Charles Gibson” at 6:30 p.m. ET/PT on CBS; “Attack of the Show!” at 7 p.m. on G4; “SuperNanny” at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC; “Dollhouse” at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Fox; “Crash” at 10 p.m. ET/PT Starz.

Saturday, December 19
What: “Saturday Night Live”
When: 11:30 p.m. ET/PT on NBC
Why: Can we ever get enough James Franco? The answer is no... kinda. From “Spider-Man” to “Milk” and even “General Hospital,” Franco continues to awe us with his astounding facial structure, raw talent and extremely accurate portrayal of stoners. He’ll be hosting “SNL” this week with musical guest Muse.

Also on Saturday: “WWE Tribute to the Troops” at 9 p.m. ET/PT on NBC; “Whose Wedding is it Anyway?” at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Style; “Three Gifts” at 9 p.m. ET/PT on the Hallmark Channel.

Sunday, December 20
What: “Kendra: Here Comes Baby”
When: 9 p.m. ET/PT on E!
Why: Hugh Hefner’s ex-girlfriend got herself out of that mansion, wed a NFL wide receiver and got preggers. Now, this one-hour special follows the newlyweds as they prepare to bring their little bundle of joy into the world.

Also on Sunday: “Survivor: Samoa” at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CBS; “Christmas in Washington” at 8 p.m. ET/PT on TNT; “The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty” at 9 p.m. ET/PT on A&E.