Bravo Renews 'Real Housewives of New York City' & More TV News

Bravo renews 'The Real Housewives of New York City,' Kathy Griffin will roast Joan Rivers, 'American Idol' wants Paula back and more of today's TV headlines.Start spreading the news: Bravo's hit reality series 'The Real Housewives of New York City' will return for a third season. The show is already casting "additional Housewives" for its big return, which is expected to start production this fall. [EW.com]






Emmy winner Brad Garrett is on board for the new half-hour animated comedy series 'Dumb Bunny and Jackass.' Garrett will voice one of the two leads in this R-rated project about a cartoon duo's fall from grace. [Hollywood Reporter]





Reality TV star Kathy Griffin will emcee the 'Comedy Central Roast of Joan Rivers.' The event is scheduled to air Aug. 9 at 10PM on the network, and promises to be "an evening of highs and lows," according to Griffin. We'll take her word for it. [Hollywood Reporter]


'American Idol' has reportedly invited Paula Abdul to "stay the duration of the show, however long it lasts." In the meantime, Abdul remains "optimistic" about her future with the show, although no official deal has been made. We assume she's holding out for some of Simon's $144 million paycheck. [AP]

Jane Lynch is leaving 'Party Down.' The actress will not appear on the show's second season due to scheduling conflicts with her role on the new musical comedy series 'Glee.' 'Glee' premieres Wed., Sept. 16, 9PM on Fox. [Variety]


HBO is planning a one-hour drama series adaptation of 'Middlesex,' based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Jeffrey Eugenides. The project, about a young girl's "complicated sexual identity," will be written by Pulitzer Prize winner Donald Margulies, with Rita Wilson on board to executive produce. [Broadcasting Cable]

ALSO IN TV NEWS ...

'Soul Train' is coming to DVD. The new release will feature performances by Michael Jackson, Al Green, Aretha Franklin and others, along with footage of Jackson's induction into the Soul Train Hall of Fame. No word on when the DVD officially arrives in stores. [Variety]