Created from: Spoilers

“This year has been a bear,” says executive producer Donald P. Bellisario, speaking of the pregnancy of lead Catherine Bell. “Suddenly everything we were planning for the season had to go out the window.” For the finale, Bellisario decided not to try to hide Bell's condition. Instead, he has Mac pose as the pregnant wife of CIA agent Clayton Webb (Steven Culp) while on a secret mission to Paraguay, where they are captured by terrorists. When no one gives the hot-headed Harm permission to rescue her, the impulsive commander resigns his commission and heads for South America.

Mac and Clayton Webb move in a world of drugs and terrorism while on a CIA mission in Paraguay. Meanwhile, Harm asks a CIA attorney (Laura Putney) for help in tracking down Mac, but ends up helping her in a personal matter which puts the pair in an awkward situation.

Question: There also isn't any evidence linking Harm to the crime scene if it is the bridge. No evidence linking him to her after she left Benzinger's either. Very circumstancial evidence,

Question: One lesson I've learned (and, believe me, it works for any business and divorce settlements LOL): if you want 10 ask for 20 and in the end you will probably get your 10. I'm sure DJE (or his agents) asked for more only to get what he/they really wanted. They wouldn't have closed the deal if they didn't like it,

Kip: SPOILER SPACE for those who don't want actor press agent release fantasies to spoil their images AND ALSO for those who don't want any clues about the LAST EPISODE.

Of course agents ask for the moon, but, while DPB wanted DJE back he made it clear he was prepared to go on without him. Even thought new blood in the show would eventually give it even longer life...look at Law & Order and NYPD Blue. He even had an actor in mind and a story line.

Question: Kip, you once described the season fanile this way..."Some fans will be screaming "yes!" and others will be screaming "No!"...Is this statement still true (with the return of DJE)?

Kip: Don't understand this question. He made his report, the Sec Nav didn't buy it (due to Manetti's secret report) and Cmdr. Lindsey was dismissed as the Sec Nav's JAG aide.

Mac travels to Paraguay with Clayton Webb (Steven Culp), where she poses as his pregnant wife as part of a CIA mission to stop a drug lord (Marco Rodriguez) from selling missiles to terrorists. Meanwhile, Bud defends Turner when his adequacy in a case is challenged. Wahib Shawwaf: David Akert. Alvaro Camacho: Louis Aguirre. Gunny: Randy Vasquez.

"Meltdown" - After a JAG officer is found murdered, Harm is arrested for the crime and now goes on trial, on Part Two of a two-part JAG, Tuesday, April 29 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. Scott Brazil directed the episode from a script by Executive Producer Donald

P. Bellisario and Don McGill. Mark Harmon ("Chicago Hope"), Michael Weatherly ("Dark Angel"), David McCallum ("The Man From U.N.C.L.E." ) and Robyn Lively ("Chicago Hope") guest star.

The case against Harm appears to be very strong, but Agent Gibbs (guest star Mark Harmon) begins to have doubts about his guilt despite the incriminating evidence. As Gibbs leaves for the Middle East to question a senior Arab terrorist about an impending attack against a Navy ship, he asks his team to dig deeper into Harm's case in the hopes that they will find new evidence that points to another killer before the verdict is read.

Question: I understand the RL situation with CB, but are there any plans to explain Mac's behavior (or lack of it) in these eps? One thing jumps out right away. Why is she not even considered for defense council? Will that be explained?

Question: I suspect none of the headquarters Jag staff will be considered for defense council. They are all potential witnesses for the prosecution and/or defense.

Question: Given the premise of "Ice Queen," is CBS showing any indications about yanking it, at least temporarily, after the discovery of the body of the woman who might or might not be Laci Peterson?

Question: That stinks. It's fun for fans to speculate, but for Paramount to post that on their site just ruins it. Don't get me wrong - I'm not blaming somebody for posting it here, (In reference to the Paramount page spoiler)

Question: I, too, was wondering, since you said, Kip, that it was DPB's decision and not NC's for her not to return, at least as Singer, if you could tell us (and maybe you can't) why he made that decision and also if he plans to use her in some other capacity or in another show. Also, could you tell us when that decision was made? Am I wrong in remembering that you'd said earlier she was going to return next season? Was the decision made only for story purposes or were there other reasons (maybe you can tell us that much even if you can't tell us the other reasons, if there were such).

Harm's court-martial begins and it looks like he doesn't have an alibi, but he realizes he may have an unlikely ally in Special Agent Gibbs (Mark Harmon). Meanwhile, Gibbs tries to get information from

The Naval Criminal Investigative Service interviews Adm. Chegwidden's team after they discover that a body washed up from the Potomac was a JAG, and the deceased may have been murdered. Harm: David James Elliott. Mac: Catherine Bell. Turner: Scott Lawrence.

The long-running military drama showcases a possible new series in a two-part story that places JAG's high-flying pilot-turned-lawyer under criminal suspicion. Part 1 begins when a body that washed up from the Potomac is discovered to be a JAG officer. While Adm. Chegwidden's team is stunned by the news, members of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (the focus of the spinoff) suspect foul play and begin questioning the officers. NCIS agents Leroy Gibbs, Tony Dinozzo and Viv Blackadder (Mark Harmon, Michael Weatherly, Robyn Lively), along with Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard (David McCallum), think Harm (David James Elliott) is hiding something, but a crucial piece of evidence leads them to deduce something far worse.

Question: I understand very well that CB, due to her pregnancy, can't have more screen time on the show and I know that, for this year, she has finished to act. But, frankly, even in those little "tidbits" of her presence that TPTB gave to us, I was hoping in... ehm..something "more consistent" between Mac and Harm. So..... my terrible question is: is it over b/w them?

Kip: I don't know. I didn't ask them. I think it's their personal business. I mean do you must walk up to friends and say, "Is it over between you?" Maybe you do, but i don't. And is what over? Was it ever there in the first place?

Question: Kip, will we possibly see a marriage proposal from the Admiral to Meredith this season? Do you know if Cmdr. Manetti will be back next season? Thanks

Question: It kind of makes me wonder if TPTB set that up in earlier seasons sort of as a *tentative* solution incase ratings went low or they ran out of ideas.

Question: Can you tell us if the issues in the episode 20 shocker will be resolved within that episode, or does the story line carry on for several more episodes until resolved?

Question: ...also understood that the new Navy and Marine officer being introduced would be joining JAG, not the spin-off series. I guess I'll have to see if I can find Kip's post to clarify what I read...unless he'd like to just take a moment and clear it up in a new post.

In Uzbekistan, Petty Officer Wilson (Bruce Ramsay) is caught on film saving lives during an attack. When the footage runs on TV, a woman (Holly Fields) recognizes him as her husband's former business partner, Matthew Devine, who she thought died with her spouse in the World Trade Center on Sept. 11. While Turner gets to the truth about the deception, Harm helps the widow, who doesn't understand why Devine won't tell her the details of that tragic day. Meanwhile, Adm. Chegwidden (John M. Jackson) considers retirement when Sheffield shows him a bad report on JAG performance.

Question: If I understand it right, the season finale is done already. But *what if* the show will be not picked up for another season? Have you filmed two endings? One for the case it will continue (the cliffhanger) and another just for the case it will be end of the show?

Question: Kip, I forgot to ask before -- is the March 18 ep with the the INS investigator the spin-off possibility? Is that a done deal, I mean that there definitely will be the spin-off, or is the network waiting to see the (or its PTB) reaction?

*According to thefutoncritic.com, veteran actor David McCallum is set to be in JAG's potential NCIS spin-off. He played Walter Thornhill in The Education of Max Bickford. *

Kip: It's so sad to see all you bright people and yet no one has come close to the name A.J. will give his dog. What's even sadder is that you won't find out what the name is until the episode tentatively named "Empty Quiver" airs on 2/25. Eleven days to go and No Joy for the JAG fans in the name guessing game.

Question: Kip, can you at least tell us this: is it something that we will smack our foreheads and go, "Of course! We should have guessed that!" or will it come from left field (so to apeak)?

Kip: Come on. I opened up this guessing game to hundreds, perhaps thousands of people. Gave you weeks to come up with the answer. Now you want hints? Sorry. You'll just have to keep on guessing until you get it.

Kip: I am here. And no one has got it yet. If one of you do I will tell you with a long spoiler, of course, in case someone doesn't want to know. I don't that will be anyone. I think the spoilers are a waste of time JMPO. Anyway--none of the hundreds of names submitted as guesses are correct, although one person had me sweating for a bit and was quite warm.

So, should I tell? Hmmmmm? What to do? I know! I'll put a BIG SPOILER on the message so that MATURE AND INTELLIGENT JAG fans who WISHED TO BE ENTERTAINED and NOT HAVE YOUR FUN SPOILED can delete the E-mail.

Question: I'm one of those people who ofen reads the end of a book, especially if it's suspenseful, to see how it turns out. I still enjoy it -- more so if the characters survive or end up together (if it's a romance) and I don't have to worry about it

I quite frankly do not understand readers or viewers like yourself. To read the end of a book or to see the end of a film, to me, defeats the intrigue, mystery and fun of the trip...let alone the effort the writer put into creating a present of a surprise. I'll bet you peeked at all your presents before Christmas.

Question: Surely good writers don't write just to surprise you, they write to put to gether a story that is timeless--it will entertain you over and over again. Such are the classics.

Kip: Sorry, but I still don't agree. First, let's leave books out of it. We're talking about film. I believe those of you who chose to learn the name of the dog are going to miss a wonderful moment. Sure, you'll laugh and say, I know what's coming. But you will never have the joy of surprise or the degree of laughter that those who don't know will have. JMNSHO.

Question: However, one of the things that annoys me is when others tell me that I somehow don't know what is the most enjoyable way for me to watch or read *for me*. After 45 years and copious story-absorbing (whether book or film), I do.

Kip: Didn't mean to annoy you. Personally, I don't care if you wish to watch the show in rewind or upside down. I am simply saying that the creative people who work so hard to create these surprises (be they humorous or shocking) feel that letting a viewer in on the surprise is akin to telling someone how the magician is going to do a bit of magic. Of course, you can still enjoy the skill of the magician, but the wonder when you see it has to be diminished and nothing you have said has convinced me otherwise. That is once again, MNSHO.

Question: And also, when you said that we would be seeing shipper moments that we wouldn't expect, were you referring to those between AJ and Meredith last night, or others?

Question: You said that we,the shippers,aren´t going to see the scenes we expect (referring to the last three eps. of the season),but I´d like you to tell us what kind of scenes do you think we want to see?

Question: I thought your remark about shipper scenes and "not the ones you expect" was a general remark and not specific to the last three eps of the season. In fact, when I saw A.J. and Meredith in the emergency room Tuesday night, I figured THAT is what you meant. Was I wrong?

Question: And one more, is there anything for Harm and Mac shippers to look forward to? Maybe in the cliffhanger ep? (BTW, I was just happy with the way they talked on the phone the other night. LOL!)

Question: Is our "shocker" going to involve another addition to the JAG family? Possibly the announcement that AJ &Meredith are marrying because she's pregnant, too?

Question: What are the chances of Meredith dying a horrible, violent death and/or just plain leaving the show? I mean, nothing against the actress who plays her, I just can't stand the character.

None are close. Still don't believe anyone will get the right name. (although I did like Kip). And I will not answer each e-mail, UNLESS someone guess correctly. Kip

Question: Just a question that you probably get sick of, but since CB expecting and the end of the season is approaching along with renewal as unknown any hope for a few shipper scenes?

Cdr. Turner is sent to a submarine heading toward the Mideast to investigate the disappearance of a 10-kiloton nuclear warhead. Cdr. Turner: Scott Lawrence. Harm: David James Elliott. Mac: Catherine Bell.

Question: Kip if you read this I have been a fan for all 8 seasons, this year had some very good epsiodes up until christmas. What is needed is a story line from week to week to follow, I have been lost since

Kip: Since Christmas only 3 new episodes have run including Each of us Angels which is not a normal JAG story. The rest of the weeks were re-runs. And once, again, ad nauseum, the CB pregnancy affected our story options.

Coming down the road starting with episode 20 this season will be a shocking story for two weeks followed by three weeks of a single story arc leading to the cliff-hanger.

Question: Will this year's cliff-hanger be related to the Mac undercover arc or the "shocker" arc? Either? Neither? Both? (I thought you might appreciate a little leeway there. LOL!)

Question: Will Singer appear in these episodes(ep 20 & 21)? -You said the shocker would involved a regular cast member,but will it affect to other or others(also from the regular cast,I mean)?

Question: What I would like to know is why the producers/writers chose to have the story center around British troops instead of Canadians. Were there legal reasons why you cannot do a show that hits too close to the real incident?

Question: Will the ep (Friendly Fire) still be shown when originally scheduled (was it to be next week as scheduled or will it be postponed a bit in hopes that it can have the resolution the real case does?

Kip: Had nothing to do with it. The script was not in as good as shape as the next episode so we switch them. Since neither involved anything important to the shocker or if they do it could be included in either script. We went with the one that was ready and will air in order produced.

Question: I have been reading all the informative shocker predictions and updates from Kip and was surprised as all of you to see Singer will appear in the Shocker. I wonder if Kip will answer a question or two. Will we find out you the father of Singers baby is this episode and will someone meet there demise that evening. I hope this is not too much to ask.

Question: I believe you said that the "shocker" was not particularly related to the "Mac undercover" arc that ends the season. Is that still true? Will Webb and Gunny still be part of the undercover arc? Also, is this season's cliff-hanger part of the "Mac undercover" arc or will it come out of left field like last year's did?

Question: I read on one of the lists (suppose it was this one) that the Admiral was going to get a dog. Please tell us it's going to be a big manly dog worthy of him. Not some teeny, tiny little yapper to make AJ look like a foolish old man again. I'm beginning to need some reenforcement about AJ's dignity.

Kip: AJ's name for the dog is quite approriate since it comes from A.J. and I guarantee no one will guess it. And yes, that is a challenge, which I feel quite comfortable in making.

When Harm takes Adm. Chegwidden up in an F-14, the admiral accidentally ejects and is stranded in a snowy, remote area of the George Washington National Forest. Adm. Chegwidden: John M. Jackson. Harm: David James Elliott. Mac: Catherine Bell.

Question: I saw the previews for the "Nurses" ep coming up, last night. Wow, what great cinematography displayed in the previews! I was impressed with what looks to be real quality in the show...I mean if the previews were that good, the rest has to be incredible yes?

Harm sits on the bench as Mac prosecutes a pilot (Gabriel Olds) who accidentally dropped a bomb on British troops, killing three soldiers, but Mac fumes over Harm's seemingly impartial judgments, and Harm is pressured by the SECNAV (Dean Stockwell) who makes it clear he wants a conviction to placate the British. Bill O'Reilly has a cameo. Lt. Whitehall: Harry Van Gorkum. PO Coates: Zoe McLellan.

Question: From the still pics that are floating around from Each of Us Angels, it appears that the entire episode is filmed in color. Was any consideration given to possibly filming the WWII-era scenes aboard ship in black and white to add a level of authenticity to the look of the episode, and if so, what factors contributed to the decision to film in color?

Kip: Black and white would not be authentic since Marine combat photographers at Iwo Jima used color film. The Marines regularly used color long before any other branch of our military. We are using some of this actual footage in the episode.

And, if creatively we wanted to give a black and white look for the past, it wouldn't be a good idea since over 80% of the episode takes place at Iwo Jima. Too many viewers would be turned off by so much black and white and many tuning in late would wonder what was wrong with their TV.

Kip: I should have added to my previous post that since we are using Marine combat photography we have treated all the scenes that take place in 1945 to somewhat match. The episode is still full color--not sepia--just slightly degraded and saturated.

Question: Is the episode based on the actual events that occured in April 1945, aboard the hospital ship U S Comfort? Is the title taken from the Quote: "We are each of us Angels with only one wing, and we can only fly by embracing each other" - Luciano de Crescenzo

Question: Obviously one of the love stories is with CB/DJE's alter ego, but what about the other one? I'm hoping Harm and Mac... (Referring to "Each of Us Angels")

The episode will open in Arlington Cemetery where a young woman (representing the younger generation) meets a WWII veteran (representing to many of us our greatest living generation). She know nothing of nurses in WWII and he tells her a story, which we see as our actors play all the characters in his tale. Every act we briefly return to the old man and young woman, ending the epsiode with a twist, a surprise and perhaps even a tear.

In a tribute to U.S. Navy nurses, the cast play different characters in a story set during the Battle of Iwo Jima, where a wounded Marine and a Navy nurse (David James Elliott, Catherine Bell) fall in love aboard a ship that serves as a makeshift hospital. Ens. James: Karri Turner. Lt. Cavendish: Isabella Hofmann. Capt. Chesborough: John M. Jackson.

To set your minds somewhat at ease, CBS said they were very pleased with JAGs numbers considering the huge promotion AI received. We will see how pleased they are if we continue to take hits like that, although next week won't count since it's a rerun.

Since most of you loved "Standards of Conduct" I think you will be equally pleased with "Each of us Angels" our homage to Navy Nurses. The story takes place on a hospital ship off Iwo Jima in 1945. All of our actors play different roles. Using their JAG names--Mac, Harriet, Coates and Meridith are Navy nurses. (Singer was too preggers to do it) Harm is a wounded Marine Lieutenant, Sturgis a seaman, Mikey a wounded corpsman, Tiner a wounded Marine, Chegwidden a chaplain, Bud a Navy doctor.

The first few episodes would deal with Bud's traumatic injury, gradually letting that become a B-story as the A stories would be our usual JAG courtroom/militaryaction combination. That would take up about 1/3rd of the season.

The middle third would be case driven with Harm and Mac spenting more after office hours time together as a natural extension of their working relationship. Toward the last 1/3rd of the season they were to realize--what their JAG friends already knew--that they were using work as an excuse to spend more time together, i.e. dating without realizing it.

Then CB asked to be let out to film a feature with Jim Carey. DPB approved because she had been such a hard worker over the years. However, that took her completely out of one episode and made her 'Mac-lite' in two others. No problem. The plan could still work.

Then CB became pregnant and DPB had to re-think the plan because CB had to be 'shot out' by the end of February or early March--while the season didn't finish filming until early May.

That's when the B story concept came into play. Mac would be an undercover pregnant woman with Webb and Gunny in South America. This B story would run in the final four episodes, keeping Mac active in the show. It would be filmed over 8 days at the end of February concurrent with the regular filming schedule of episode #17. Then instead of filming #18, we would film the final episode of the season (#24) so CB and DJE could both be in it together.

Kip: Oh, I don't know. Mickey Rooney while dancing with Jane Mansfield is purported to have said, as he looked up from where his head was buried in her cleavage, "Jane. I'd like to 'do it' with you." (He actually used a more explicit term) Jane is said to have answered, "If you do, Mickey, and I find out about it, I'll kill you."

Question: I think the phrase "dating without dating" isn't so much that they're going out on dates, but spending time together. The remainder of Kip's comment ("what their JAG friends already knew--that they were using work as an excuse to spend more time together, i.e. dating without realizing it.") states quite clearly that they too, like my friends, were using work to spend time together.

Question: Will Singer be receiving some kind of medal or award or other such recognition for her role? She is the one who discovered the decoy submarine and thereby allowed the Seahawk battle group to prepare for the attack before it was too late!

Question: Will NC be in any more episodes besides the next one before she has her baby or have the PTB decided to wait until after to continue with her story line?

Kip: She really only has two tough weeks coming up in the rest of the season--when we film the B story and the 24th episode. Even then, we would never work her long hours and have an acting double to do those shots which don't feature her face.

On the episodes prior to that, CB will be filming a couple of days a week at reduced hours. On the six episodes after that (B story and #24) I doubt she'll work more than one out of every eight filming days for the next three episodes and not all for the final three since they will incorporate the B story.

Question: I hope they don't use the "Harm hit's his head" excuse again. Especially since it was so lame the first time around; twice would be a crime. (RE: Standards of Conduct)

Kip: Beats me why many fans on this list do that. But they do. It's especially demeaning to those of us who make the show. Perhaps that's why so few true insiders ever bother to read fan lists.

Question: Is the finale cliff hanger episode we are going to see at the end of this season similar to the finale that was already planned before everyone and their dog decided to assert their fertility? Or is it totally different from the one that was originally planned?

By the way, in answer to some of the E-mails I've been reading---as an insider, constructive criticism is as helpful as legitimate praise. But how can anyone constructively criticize what they haven't seen? And how can others defend such negativism as a legitimate form of discussion?

Question: I think Kip has said that it (the four-episode arc with Mac) is an undercover mission, but I have a hard time remembering what I said recently, let alone what Kip said, so I could be wrong. ;-)

Question: Kip will/does this episode explore the real life issue of the drugging of the pilots with the "Go" pills and then the drugging down of the pilots afterwards?

Question: Kip is this still the story arc? That Mac goes undercover with Webb and Gunny as a pregnant woman. OR has that changed. So much has been said since that was mentioned that I am a tad confused as to what is going on. Sorry, I tried to just wait until May and find out then honest but since it was brought up.... I want to know.

Kip: This is still the intended story arc, but CBs ability to work even the reduced schedule is becoming an issue. I'm sure this story arc will see even a further reduction in her participation.

Question: Kip once said that Harm and Sturgis would be getting some sort of reward or accomendation for their participation in stopping a dirty nuke. Do you if and/or when that might happen or are TPTB going in a different direction?

Question: Poor AJ...he is having quite the year isn't he? Then again, sounds like we get a great AJ centered episode. :-) (See spoiler below from 12/9 - 12/16)

Kip: Only so far. Yesterday, DPB visited the set on the Queen Mary where we are filming an homage to Navy Nurses with our cast playing wounded marines, sailors and nurses on a hospital ship off Iwo Jima in 1945.

CB is a real trouper, but she's showing quite a bit, obviously tired and won't work near smoke or loud explosions. Since she plays a heroine on a burning ship under attack...it's a teeny bit of a problem.

After yesterday's location visit, DPB called the writing staff together to further reduce CB's participation in the rest of the season. This will especially affect the last four Mac/Webb/Gunny episodes in South America, which were to be action-filled B stories with gunfire and explosions.

Kip: We always do. For example when we fire a weapon we usually only fire what is called a quarter round. It has 1/4th the powder of a real round. But if there is an explosion being set off with fire and smoke...it's still an explosion. And there is no way to avoid some degree of noise.

Question: I had a question, though. Since CB's role is being "re-resculptured" for the rest of the year, are we still going to have the ep where Harm is the judge, and Mac is in his court, or has that been put off?

Kip: Interesting and expected. Unfortunately only one vote counts and you all know whose that is. Which is why Renee will be making an appearance in an upcoming episode. By the way, Cindy Ambuehl (sp?) who plays Renee is actually very pregnant with twins! DPB who has 7 children is beginning to think he's the facilitator not the water.

Question: With NC's pregnancy continuing, will there be an episode explaining why Singer did not get the abortion that she planned on getting in When the Bough breaks and The Killer? If yes, which episode will that be?

Question: Quick question, Kip, I have been thinking about Renee's upcoming visit since you mentioned it.......will Renee be making any observations about Harm's single status, maybe even asking about Mac? :)

FROM Kip: I see in today's new that the defense for the two American aviators who dropped a bomb killing Canadians involved in a night training excercise is going to use the policy of pilots taking "go" pills on long missions as part of the defense.

We have already written a story similar to this incident for Feb sweeps and are using this same rational as part of the defense. Once again, slightly ahead of reality, although the show will air probably after this incident has had an Article 32 hearing and the charges are either dismissed or sent to court martial.

Question: And the million dollar question of sorts...I'm guessing one reason forthe delay would be to keep the "reel" proceedings from affecting the real proceedings? In addition to scheduling issues and such. Have to admit, it'd be strange if a "JAG" episode affected a real court martial or Article 32 hearing...

Question: Ok...maybe I'm missing something or jumping to the wrong conclusion here, but...how can the writers at "JAG", (or the storyline at least) imply that Lt. Roberts has a less than 50-50 chance in returning to active duty. That is, where his job/domain is working in the courtroom compared to Master Chief Brashear (Men of Honor) whose job/domain was in the bottom of the ocean as a diver?

Kip: While there are always stories like Brashear's, they are an exception and not the rule. The overwhelming number of requests to stay on active duty by service people injured like Bud are denied.

Harm and Mac investigate when a Marine general (Lyman Ward) claims that a Navy doctor caused the death of his teenage daughter during routine surgery. Meanwhile, Bud decides to do some field work after tiring of pushing papers all day. Lt. Cdr. Bartell: David Gail. Dr. Stoudamire: Wayne Wilderson. Lt. Cdr. Ashley: Missy Yager.

Question: Any more little tidbits about a debatable "tender moment" between our favorite lawyers? We promise we won't tell, just looking for a little something to hold us over!!!!

Question: If Kip hadn't said it's going to be fun, I would expect Harm and the CAG to be floating around in the Atlantic until January! Oh, perhaps that is Kip's idea of fun! <veg>

Kip: Yes. But she is living back east with her husband, who she met while filming on a carrier. She declined. We re-wrote it for Terry O'Quinn the CAG. She missed being in a very good episode.

Question: btw, if he's the bold risk-taker type, couldn't we have just a couple of Harm and Mac "warm moments" before the season ends?] Sorry, I can't help it. It's the shipper in me talking.

The military routinely puts VIPs in the back seats of supersonic jet fighters. It's good public relations. But what happened over the Nevada desert last week was anything but typical. An F-14D Tomcat took off from Fallon Naval Air Station with a VIP in the back seat — a naval officer from the cruiser Anzio who was on what the military calls a "FAM Hop," or familiarization ride. In flight, when the pilot pulled a "negative 1g," the gravity force moved the officer nearly off his seat. He reached down to reposition himself and accidentally pulled the ejection lever. The cockpit canopy flew off and out went the VIP.

A Navy official at the Pentagon confirmed the incident. He said the ejection system automatically opened the VIP's parachute. He landed safely in the Nevada desert and waited for his rescue.

Kip: We are doing this story. It will be Harm and...no, not Mac. CB is too pregnant to do the rest of this story, which is of survival. By the way, the reason for the real ejection is hysterical when you hear it.

Question: You got that right, Kip...the poor schlep accidentally pulled the ejection lever. Can only imagine what was going through the pilot's mind...hmm, what was that about truth being stranger than fiction?

Question: Looks like they were flying upside down...guy was moved out of his seat...he was trying to get back in, pulled the ejection handle by mistake...hi, kids, can you say, "Martin Baker"? I thought you could!

About to go through some hi-G maneuvers, the pilot told the VIP to expel any internal gas he might be storing because such gasses can be painful when the pressure suit inflated. Having such gas on board, the VIP loosened his harness slightly to elevate his six and expel the potentially painful and noxious fumes.

For some unknown reason, the pilot at that moment dipped the nose slightly, just enough to produce about 1 negative G. With his harness loosened, his six slightly elevated to port and expelling gas, the floating sensation of the negative G caused the VIP to grasp the eject handle between his legs.

On Christmas Eve, Harm (David James Elliott) finds a way to pilot a plane off of a carrier so he can make it to Bud and Harriet's Christmas party. Meanwhile, the hosts, who are having a bad day, get unexpected news. P.O. Coates: Zoe McLellan. Cdr. Turner: Scott Lawrence. Tiner: Chuck Carrington.

Question: I know that the plans for this season were to have more courtroom stories rather than Afghanistan storylines. Are there plans for any episodes to take place in Afghanistan/Iran/Iraq/Middle Eastern/desert settings?

Kip: Adm. Boone it is. Since the SecNav was replaced he became a beltway bandit and is on a carrier representing his company. Harm is there on a JAG assignment. As the show opens they are waiting for the COD to fly them home in time for the Christmas festivities.

Kip: Ah,my friends in the world of series television everything and anything can change even after being filmed. On MPI DPB once changed who the murderer was after shooting was finished. He looped the dialogue and made the change editorially. If he can do that, he can change who the father is to suit whatever direction the show has to take considering all the preggers actresses.

Question: Singer's plan is to get an abortion. I was wondering if they planned to address the issue that abortions are not allowed at military medical facilities by law.

Question: So, could you give us something "shippery" to look forward to (Say, like in the Chistmas Episode?).... Well, we do not need details..... Even a "yes" answer will do it..... :)!

2. As to comments about Harm and Mac not following the arc I mentioned at the beginning of the season--DPB planned to build the Harm/Mac relationship through work and coincidence to the point where by the end of the season even they came to realize they had been dating each other without realizing or at least admitting it. Then, not only did CB get pregnant, but before her, NC. That changed everything! For example, If NC wasn't pregnant we would have never made last night's episode.

3. At this moment, while DPB has worked out a general arc for the rest of the season (including a really, really big shocker in episode 20) everything and anything can change, including who fathered Singer's baby if it helps adjust to all these pregnancies!

Question: You said that the shocker would be like the shocker with Bud losing his leg. Will the shocker of ep #20 be just as brutal (and bloody) as that one or is this a totally different kind of shocker?

Question: Ok, now I'm a little confused. I thought you said the 4-ep arc with Mac would lead into the season finale. Which I took to mean 4 eps and a season finale. Were you including the finale in the arc count?

Question: SC's movie just came out so it's gotten me thinking of our beloved spy. I know you mentioned that DPB was working on a 3-4 episode story toward the end of this season involving Webb. 1. Is there anything more definitive on this yet? 2. Will Webb be in any other episodes this season and do you know when they might air?

Question: What do you mean by the relationships planned will be altered? Will either Harm or Mac eventually have a romantic interest this season (other than each other)?

Question: Now that DPB has decided to have Mac go undercover and he has the concept for the last four episodes, is the Harm and Mac working together,/getting closer storyline completely gone for this season? Will it be postponed until next season, or will Harm and Mac go their separate ways, socially?

Kip: Let's see if I can clarify this. AT PRESENT we have 14 out of 24 scripts shot or written. Plans for the last 10 call for CB to be a Judge in two and to be in an undercover B story in the last four. This B story becomes the A story in the last episode of the season. The other four episodes are up in the air (exception the 20th in which CB will be light). Socially, we are trying to keep Harm and CB somewhat on track as originally planned, ie. maybe they'll have a dinner (where CB is always seated) or Harm will visit her at her apartment where she'll wear sweats. I can't tell you more than that because those episodes aren't written.

How CB handles the work load while she's pregnant and how much she shows will determine how big a role she'll play in the four episodes that are up in the air.

Question: Hi again! After watching the preview for the next episode,I was wondering if we´re going to see in it some flash back of past episodes (especially one from the 4th season).

Question: Kip, if you answer this (question about whether Harm and Mac will kiss in the Christmas episode), please put SPOILER and subject in the subject line - this is exactly what I do not want to know!

Question: Will any of the season end-4 story arc-use Mac's linguistic ability in Farsi and Russian. Will any new episodes explain how she learned to speak Russian.

Question: Correct me if I'm wrong, I thought it was said that Harm (likely) would receive a medal for his actions in 'Enemy Below'. So far I didn't hear anything about this and wondered if it might have been revisited and not gonna happen anymore, ended on the cutting room floor or if I am too impatient? ;o)

Harm and Cdr. Manetti (Tamlyn Tomita) travel to Naples when an Interpol officer (Rocco Sisto) believes someone aboard a U.S. destroyer is a serial killer who has killed four women while on leave in European ports. Cdr. Waller: Deborah Farentino. P.O. Marshall: Mat Hostetler. P.O. Holt: Eyal Podell. Peter: Ben Crowley.

Question: ...I was struck by the feeling that Webb was already on the DIC's bad side even before he gave the tape to Rabb. Is this something the writers intended for the audience to infer or is my imagination over reacting?

Kip: Since it's your first message I think you deserve an answer. However, I'm not sure what trauma you're refering to--Harm's trauma in the water or Mac's worrying about him? I think it's safe to say that there will be a cliff-hanger (I HEARD THAT!) and that it will be traumatic for everyone involved.

Question: Kip, I'm praying like mad that JAG gets another season (at least), but on the off chance that it doesn't, will that change the outcome of the last few episodes? ie no cliffhanger?

Kip: That is going to be a very difficult change to make due to CB's pregnancy. We are filming the last episode nearly two months before we normaly would. What will be will be.

Kip: Yes. The 24th episode will be filmed in February and our last episode is the end of April. We will be also shooting two units for a while to get CB while we can. Very difficult for the script writers, especially since there is CB story running independent of the last four and filmed before they are even written.

Question: What happens if a series ends with a cliff hanger and then doesn't get picked up for the next season? Is that it? The entire series ends with a cliff hanger? ... That would suck

Kip: Sure would. In fact NBC cancelled JAG at the end of the lst season on a cliffhanger. It ran overseas, but not here. DPB later rewrote and combined it with another show.

Question: As a screenwriter, I'm beginning to feel that the writers are grasping at whatever ideas they can come up with to keep the show going. Yes, it's great that they want to keep the character of Mac around while Catherine is pregnant, but there are ways of shooting around a woman's pregnancy without revealing that she's actually pregnant. It's been done many times before on many television shows and no one would be the wiser.

The screenwriter (credits please) is right. It's been done on other TV shows. But none of them had to deal with a pregnant Marine in uniform. They could hide it under standard women's clothing. Also, DPB doesn't go for filming scenes with just head shots or CB hiding behind physical objects for 9 episodes.

Kip: It is a B story that becomes the A story for the end of the season. That's why we're filming it early when CB is not ready to domino (as they say in Texas).

Question: I (like lots of us)really love the idea of Mac going undercover and my question is about that: could you please tell us if Harm is going undercover with her,or at least if is he part of the same story?

Kip: He is not going undercover with Mac. Doing that would defeat the purpose of what we're doing. He will be filming A stories while we simultaneously film a B story line with Mac to be integrated into those episodes where she will no longer be able to work. I will say that by the end of the season Harm will be deeply involved in Mac's story.

Remember this only applies to the last four episodes of the year. The three previous to that will probably have Mac as a judge and of course there will be Harm and Mac scenes in those.

Question: Did anyone else get the impression that Neville Webb's name is on one of those stars and that the conversation at the end of the show indicated that Webb took a career hit to help give the families of the Angel Shark the closure that he and Porter have never been allowed?

Question: Will any interactions between Harm and Mac in "Ready or Not" have future relevence to their relationship? To clarify, will we get a moment(s) that is often referenced by fans in the future? (i.e. the ferry ride, Lifeline, Adrift II phone conversation)....

Lt. Singer (Nanci Chambers) recommends that seven seamen aboard the USS Seahawk be court-martialed because of a mishap on the carrier that left one man dead. Meanwhile, a discovery about Lt. Singer could threaten her career. Cdr. Cooper: Brixton Karnes. Capt. Johnson: Scott Paulin. Cdr. Manetti: Tamlyn Tomita. Harm: David James Elliott.

Question: Thanks Kip...that should give us some enjoyable moments of guessing for the next month and a half. Of course now you know you're going to get a billion questions starting with "Will Harm be taking....?"

Kip: I think I covered a number of people he won't take. So I see no reason to narrow the short list remaining. Besides, most fans will figure it out as soon as CBS releases the cast list.

Kip: He's filmed one episode. And plans are being formed by DPB to bring him back for a series of episodes (3 or 4) at the end of the season. Note: These are tenative plans, but will likely go forward.

Kip: Not true. Manetti is DPB's way of including another minority in the cast. She will work with Harm on a case where CB is making her film. No UST intended here.

Question: Will the Christmas Eve show have Chaplain Turner once again. It just seems to bring the spirit of Christmas closer when the Chaplain says a few words. Also, will he be in the series this year. I like what he adds to the show.

Question: Do TPTB have any thoughts on making good the pact that Harm and Mac have to have a baby which should be coming up by my calculations in about 24 months or so? Can you help me here?

Harm doesn't have much hope in his defense of a two-star general (James Morrison) court-martialed for disobedience and reckless endangerment during a wargame. His job is made more complicated when, in a rare move, Mac (Catherine Bell) is appointed as judge. Gen. Manzarek: Leon Russom. Adm. Tucci: Steve Rankin. Col. Haller: David Andriole.

Question: Well if this is true (Kip's renewal information) does this mean if JAG is not renewed (God forbid) in February will DPB then start moving Harm and Mac together?

Question: I'm kind of curious if the Webb situation has changed since the last time he was mentioned. I don't recall reading any posts stating anything other than he was in the 11/5 episode.

Question: The admiral's decision was premature, and seemed to be based partly on the client's visceral reaction to Harm's questioning of the Air boss and the pilot (Discussion of "In Thin Air")

Kip: The client requested a change. The Admiral had no choice even if he wanted to keep Harm on the case, which he didn't after watching his weak performance.

Kip: Who said she owned the house. She was a military wife and frequently transfered. They might have owned or just rented it. And if it was military housing, she would have to leave. She also wanted to be closer to her parents.

Question: How much of a role will Manetti have in the future? Will she be serving as a character similar to Tiner (i.e. always there but never the focus of things) or more involved like Sturgis? Also will she ever be paired with Mac or directly opposing her?

Question: Last season you gave us the tidbit that the season finale would be shocking and it was. Can you give us any similar tidbits about the overall arc of this season (at least as far into the future as you can see)?

Question: You provided us information earlier this Summer that Mac & Harm would be spending a lot of time together outside of JAG, without actually calling it dating (or something to that effect, LOL!) We haven't seen that in the first 5 eps, and I was wondering if this had been a future story arc (middle of the season etc.) where we would see Mac & Harm outside of JAG together, and if the unexpected news of CB's pregnancy has altered that in any way. I hope not, and would appreciate any information you'd care to give on this question.

Kip: The specifics weren't laid out, but this season was to have Harm and Mac working much as you saw last Tuesday and in the upcoming episodes. CB's movie meant that she would be missing from an episode and then her pregnancy means we have to rethink everything for the last half of the year.

Question: In Thin Air" was very interesting. Can you tell me if the way Harm's part was written was to show his vulnerability that DB talked about at the start of this season?

Harm, Mac and Turner go up against the CIA's top counsel (Laura Putney) when the agency tries to keep a 1968 Navy sub tragedy, in which 129 men died, classified. Lillian Dorning: Donna Bullock. Clayton Webb: Steven Culp. Secretary of the Navy: Dean Stockwell.

Kip: My mistake. The Christmas episode is titled, "All Ye Faithful". And we are having some problems with it since Skates was written in heavily and the actress is living with her Navy husband in Groten, Conn. and may not be able to return to film.

Question: Did you know that DPB is being quoted in a magazine article (TVGuide Canada) as saying he "will never remove that tension" (between Harm and Mac)? He will never get them together.

Question: Is there still going to be an episode about Navy nurses in WW2? Did CB's pregnancy put this episode on hold or will you have to change the plot a little because of the pregnancy?

Question: ...well - CB and her pregnancy were mentioned tonight -- they said that Mac would become a judge and hide her pregnancy under the robes. Uh, since when do military judges where robes?

Question: I have heard on ET(Entertainment Tonight) and other places that Mac will be promoted to judge..for all the obvious reasons..yada yada yada. How will this affect the everyday relationship w/Harm ? I mean can they still be "friendly", flirty ? Will her office stay the same, or will she move ?

Question: So she won't be a judge? or just not the robe? and you said once it was one episode and Harm was going to get His chance is that still in the works or changed?

Question: Read some posts concerning CB's pregnancy. Was just wondering are you going to change the direction you had planned or are you going to continue with it?

Kip: This will definitely change plans for this season. CB's pregnancy means that she will be delivering even before we finish the season. Best estimate at the moment is that we will have to shoot at least the last six episodes without her. Meaning we will have to come up with a B story line to shoot ahead of schedule to include CB in those episodes. Uniforms leave little room for babies and you can't do story lines and filming around CB behind a desk each week. DPB will probably make her a judge toward the end of the season to help, but that removes her from teaming up with Harm which is what he was planning for the rest of year. With CB already out of episode 10 (this season) it's going to be a challenge.

Kip: How we he do it? Just have Harm and Mac announce they've been secretly wed? What a cheat! And there is no way he is going to make the poster lady for the USMC an unwed mother. Beside, Lt. Singer is already playing that story line. To have two of them unwed pregnancies wouldn't work.

JAG is one of the most difficult shows on television to produce as it is and working stories around filming CB behind a desk or with special angles when she begins to show is going to make it even more difficult...especially in a uniform.

Question: This may be thinking too far into the future, but, assuming there is a season 9, would DPB just move what he was planning for Harm and Mac to season 9? I am assuming he is not going to drop the Harm and Mac relationship UST storyline

Harm is ordered to defend a plane-maintenance officer (Thad Luckinbill) who he believes is guilty of making an error that caused the death of an aviator. Meanwhile, Harriet unintentionally impedes Bud's rehab when she insists he rest at home. Lt. Sam Albrecht: Scott Paetty. Jeannine Zuzello: Wendy Benson-Landes. Mac: Catherine Bell.

Question: ...have noticed that Mac and Harm have been at their current rank for almost 3 years now. They were both promoted to o-5 in 1999. Mac is senior by 2 months or so...So keeping with the fast paced timeline, are they not due for Col. and Capt. promotions soon ?

Kip: Remains to be seen. But not in three weeks. What in the few scenes of this episode made you think he or they worked it all out? The fact that she said we can do it. I love you. Etc. People say things like that all the time and mean it. Then they have to face to day to day reality.

Question: ...maybe he's just able to wrap himself around this better. It's something that can't be changed... unlike thoughts, emotions and so on. Who knows... it's Bud. And all that may not have made it's way to the surface yet.

Question: Anyway, I'd be interested if anyone else still notices the subtle (or not so as the case may be) highlighting of Harm above all of the others in both the camera shots, the ending shots (% of shows that end on Harm rather than the others

Kip: DPB agrees with everything that is being written about this by the fans. And is changing it to a more equitable sharing of center stage, when appropriate. But not without protest.

Question: On the other hand, maybe it's all of these complaints that are causing DPB to gradually move the show into a "more" balanced treatment of characters

Question: On another website, a spoiler was listed that a new JAG (Tamlyn Tomita) would be assigned by the new SecNav. By any chance, in RL, is this Randy Vasquez' girlfriend/ex-girlfriend? I understand he is/was dating a Japanese/American woman, which is how she was described on the other website...coincidence?

Question: That said, I would like to ask you another question-about DPB. You’ve mentioned, and it’s been brought up many times, that he chooses not to listen to any outside opinions/ polls. Why doesn’t he? There has to be some reason behind this act.

Kip: For over 22 years he has created shows following his vision. Most have been highly sucessful so he sees no reason to do other than what he believes is right. Also, who should he listen to? Shippers?

Question: It's a huge insult to the Mac character, especially when it's on top of the fact that she never can really win against Harm. (In reference to Mac sitting second chair to Harm in The Promised Land)

Kip: Not true. And she isn't always second chair. In fact in an upcoming episode Mac is made a judge and Harm has to argue in front of her. She is a judge in one of the november sweep episodes.

Question: .. I wonder if this is a one episode thing? I mean, in RL can you be appointed to the bench for a week and then revert back to a trial lawyer the next?

Question: Is the episode that CB is not going to be on the Christmas one? I was counting the episode titles that we have so far and it seemed to me that she could be out of the christmas episode? I hope that it is not so!

Kip: Probably not. Since three weeks had passed between Bud's crisis and his arrival home and since Mac and Harm were waiting along with the others, I think AJ has already dealt with them.

Harm prosecutes a sensitive case in an episode that sees the swearing in of a new Secretary of the Navy (Dean Stockwell) and the arrival of a new JAG (Tamlyn Tomita, who appears in three episodes).

Shortly after assuming his new role, SecNav Sheffield (Stockwell) appoints Lt. Cdr. Tracy Manetti (Tomita), a Harvard Law grad, to Adm. Chegwidden's team. Her first assignment is second chair to Harm in a negligent-homicide case against Lt. Reynolds (Judson Mills), a SEAL. While leading a guerrilla wargame among civilians in rural Virginia as a test of unconventional warfare, Reynolds failed to stop for local police, leading to a high-speed chase in which a deputy was killed. George W. Bush: Steve Bridges.

Question: Since we've had Ollie North and Rudy Boesch as guest stars...how about, someday, R.Lee Ermey? Just saw him on the History Channel's "Mail Call" today, where he answers military related questions-he was cool.

Question: Since Family Business is "ripped from the headlines", is DB planning any other RFTH Navy stories? Such as credit card problems, the CO of the Kitty Hawk being relieved of command, etc. Also, any plans to include the Coast Guard in any future shows?

Question: LOTS of us are wondering that! How come DPB isn't using him (RV)? He is really popular! If it makes for too many people at JAG HQ, maybe assign him to Webb or something - just don't wait until SC is available to use Gunny!

Kip: He was assigned to Afghanistan and will most likely return at an appropriate time. And it's not that it makes too many people at JAG--it makes too many expensive people in an episode at the same time.

Kip: Bud returns at the beginning of the next episode which takes place three weeks after the first. He will be met by all and taken to Bethesda Naval Hospital to complete his recovery.

Question: This maybe a DUH question but is it safe to assume that Bud's recovery from his injury will take a good part of the season? That it's going to be awhile before we see him back at JAG?

Harm defends a Marine gunnery sergeant (Tyler Christopher) who killed his wife, but claims it was self defense while he refuses to let his son (Bobby Edner) testify on his behalf. Meanwhile, the JAG team bids farewell to Lt. Singer (Nanci Chambers) who is departing for the USS Seahawk. Diane Akers: Bobby Edner. Sergei: Jade Carter. Lt. Roberts: Patrick Labyorteaux.

Mac and Harm defend a Marine corporal (Steve Petrarca) who's charged with desertion. He claims that anti-Semitism drove him to leave the Corps and join the Israeli army, where he was awarded for heroism. Leslie: Betsy Brandt. Lt. Singer: Nanci Chambers. Lt. Roberts: Patrick Labyorteaux. Lt. Sims: Karri Turner.

Question: Is there any CHANCE we'll get to hear some stories this year about Harm and Sturgis' days at Annapolis, preferably the ones where those two got into a lot of trouble?

Question: "Until now, Bud and Harriet's son was kept pretty much in the shadows, but this season, little A.J. will be getting considerable action as he interacts with his housebound dad."

Kip: Yes. Originally, CB would have been in and out of four JAG episodes to accomodate the feature shooting schedule. DPB said, no way. He agreed to let her film the feature if they could get all her scenes in the shooting period of one JAG episode. They agreed. Looks like it will be episode #10. That episode will have no CB in it.

Question: Last season there was a talk of a crossover between JAG and The District but it didn't happen because of the conflict in their filming schedules. Now what I want to ask: Is there a chance that a crossover will happen this year or not?

Harm, Mac and Turner are aboard a carrier, while Harriet (Karri Turner) and Adm. Chegwidden are at JAG headquarters when they get the news: Lt. Roberts (Patrick Labyorteaux) is in critical condition after trying to save a child in a mine field in Afghanistan. The group is shocked to learn that Bud has lost a leg, but they're even more stunned to hear that he may not survive the trauma. While everyone waits for an update on Bud's condition, Mac and Harm disobey orders to remain aboard the carrier and rush to the shipboard hospital to be by Bud's side.

Question: In this new episode, will Harm get a chance to fly a WWII airplane? Will any action take place aboard a carrier or on a Pacific island? (In reference to the Navy Nurse episode)

Question: A while ago someone had posted that Mac gave Jingo to Chloe at the end of "Guilt". Is this true? I've seen the episode and got the impression that Chloe was just dogsitting for her.

Question: Last season, we saw Mac's confession (of being in love with Harm) to Sturgis...Will Harm do the similar confession to anyone (not Mac) any time soon?

Question: You have said more episodes will be at JAG headquarters this year. Will there be any involving flying and action stories? JAG is better as an action drama not just courtroom.

Kip: I don't believe I said more stories would be at JAG headquarters. Perhaps you're thinking of my saying the emphasis would be on courtroom drama rather than the war in Afghanistan.

Question: I want to know any more Poppa Rabb searching eps. You know if Sergei is a spy (which is my hope and guess) then it dredges up more thoughts/questions on Poppa Rabb. Love Poppa Rabb. THERE WAS NO BODY, NO PROOF that the man REALLY WAS TITI or that TITI was REALLY DEAD.

Question: I was wondering-will there ever be a birthday party for anyone on the show? Maybe next year they'll have one for Harm's 40th. (wasn't he born in '63 on the show?) Just wondering because no one ever celebrates birthdays on JAG.

Question: Will there be any episodes about AJ's vietnam past, like how he received his Navy Cross and Purple Heart. Also will we learn anything about his family.

Question: Assuming (yes, I know the possibilities there) that Bud stays in the Navy, would this injury, along with the sea duty, accelerate his nextpromotion? Are there any plans for that, or for some kind of medal?

Question: I hope TPTB use it to show the difficulties associated with recovery and use of a prosthetic. It would be such a waste to just progress this storyline the way theydid Harm's last year. Of course, dragging Harm's out would have been pointless, but this is different. Can you tell us the general plan/idea regarding this Kip?

Kip: Everyone assumes Bud survives. Then they assume he stays in the Navy. And you're right, dragging Harm's out would have been pointless so we didn't do it. Just as if Bud survives, showing his rehab would be a good thing and we would do it.

Question: But can we really say that he saved the kids life? The kid was standing in exactly the same spot after Bud blew up as before. So, the kid is still in danger.

Question: I noticed Bud injured a leg in Rogue (stealing a sub), wore a brace the next episode in The Colonel's Wife, and couldn't run as fast as Harm because of "that leg" in Boomerang. (All Season 5.) Is this maybe a real life thing being written into the script?

Kip:Everyone keeps assuming Bud will survive. Of course, being TV, main characters usually do. But then, again, when do main characters get their leg blown off? DPB has killed off characters before, I'm thinking of Mac in MPI (Magnum PI) and then brought him back as another character. I'm not saying Bud won't survive or if he doesn't that he won't return as a spirit or other character. Just don't assume his survival is a lock.

Critical Condition - Bud hovers near death after stepping on a land mine and losing his leg while his JAG co-workers and his wife have been told by doctors to expect the worst, on the seventh-season premiere of JAG, Tuesday, Sept. 24 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

Harm, Mac and Sturgis unite aboard an aircraft carrier following their successful thwarting of a terrorist plot, only to receive word of Bud's accident. While they rush to the shipboard hospital, back at home, the Admiral breaks the news to Bud's wife, Harriet. Meanwhile, the Secretary of the Navy is accused of mishandling the terrorist threat by letting JAG officers lead the investigation and faces serious disciplinary action.

Question: From what I understand, there are no plans for Harm and Mac to begin a romantic relationship this upcoming season, yet there are no plans for either to have a significant other. Isn't two seasons with no love interest somewhat out of character for Harmon Rabb Jr?

Question: So far, in the episodes I've managed to see, I don't recall finding any indication that Sturgis has said or "thrown cold water on" any "soap opera" stuff.

Kip: Beg to differ. I don't recall the episode (we just make them and move on) but he did make a point of exactly what I said about his character not understanding the soap opera stuff going on in JAG.

Question: Kip, is it too soon to ask if it's just going to be a relaxing flight over the countryside?...or is it going to be anything but?...or has that yet to be decided? (About Harm flying the Stearman)

Kip: Yet to be decided. I don't know if he'll be flying solo for fun. Or, to clear his head of some vexing problem. Or, if he's giving someone (male or female/friend or foe) a joy ride. The reason I'm so vague is that his flying 'Sarah" has yet to be incorporated into a story. I just know that DPB likes him doing it at least once or twice a season.

Kip: I don't know about more, its too early in the story season, but there will be a good number of court cases. Probably about the same as the average over the years.

Kip: Yes. There is an episode already written that will run later in the season which will be an homage to Navy nurses in which all of our regulars will play other roles.

Question: Is DJE going to play Grandpa Rabb, and CB a young Grandma Sarah? Perhaps a whirlwind romance before he meets his fate? (in reference to the "Navy nurse" episode)

Question: Will the ep about the Navy Nurses be a two-parter? Do the cast and crew need to travel a little further than normal for it to be shot? (and my personal note: I think this will be a GREAT ep, maybe even shipperwise. LOLOL ;oP)

Question: Have DPB and the writers discussed (however informally) how the show would handle things if the U-S goes to war with Iraq? Would as much time be spent on Iraq as was spent on Afghanistan, or is it prettymuch wait and see?

Question: During Bud's period of recovery and rehab, will Harm ever talk to him about his time in the hospital rehabing from that ramp strike that killed his RIO?

DOUBLING UP: They're casting about on "JAG" for twins to play the 3-year-old son of Bud Roberts and Harriet Sims (Patrick Labyorteaux and Karri Turner). As viewers of the series know, last season's finale had Bud stepping on a land mine in Afghanistan and losing a leg. Until now, Bud and Harriet's son was kept pretty much in the shadows, but this season, little A.J. will be getting considerable action as he interacts with his housebound dad.

I went into this spoiler site and WOW DO I HAVE A BIG MOUTH! I didn't realize I'd given so many bones, tidbits and kibbles. Seems like I've given way too much away already. But, since your such great fans here is:

Kip: I hesitate, only because some people then jump all over what ever I say, put spin on it, extract the wildest interpretations and even get ticked off because in their opinion it violates something someone else said or I supposedly said. Maybe I'm too sensitive? Anyway...what can I say? DPB wants to see more solid court room, Harm and Mac working together more and conversely at each others throats when they oppose each other...in other words, behave like lawyers. He sees the Bud story as a very important arc throughout the season. Wants Turner to keep on trucking. Wants Harm to show more vulnerability. Is going to introduce a new character IF he finds the right actor or actress. Will do something surprising with Singer. Will introduce a character from First Monday. Is that enough?

Question: Just one quick question - will he introduce the First Monday character as the character he played on FM or will the actor who played the character become someone else on JAG?

Question: I read your post that the Sturgis/Bobbie relationship is probably over...Is that just a storyline choice or does that mean that the wonderful Anne Marie Johnson won't be back portraying Cong. Bobbi

Question: Quick question for you if you can answer it. Will there be any promotions next season or will things remain as they are. Also, will we be seeing any more of the Petty Officer Bud has been working with or will there be no more references to her and the carrier since Bud's injury will (assumedly) have

Kip: Promotions haven't been decided on as yet, but it would be difficult to promote Harm or Mac to Captain. We stretch credulity now with some of their assignments.

Kip: No. I mean as a Commander and Lt. Colonel, they would be in a more supervisory position and not personally handling an investigation every week the way they do. But that would be boring.

Question: A few months ago, when asked if JAG would be doing any more filming on location, CB posted the following on her message board: ". . . a big, gruff (but lovable), cigar-chomping little bird told me we were going somewhere really cool next season." Do you know if that's still planned and where it is?

Question: Kip, now that filming has begun and the crew is dealing with showing Bud with a partial missing limb, while Patrick has a full limb, has it been decided how this will be done for the most part? Meaning, will the shots where his leg can be seen (or not seen as the case may be) strictly be the old leg in the hole routine and creative angles or will there be any CGI effects mixed in?

Kip: It all depends on one's definition of 'shipper moments' and since there are as many degrees of shipperness as there are points on the compass, the answer is...it depends.

Question: Since just about everyone that has ever appeared on JAG has been mentioned, this should be any easy question. So far has anyone accurately guessed whose head is going to roll?

Question: Would you be able to let us know at what point we will learn who the rolling head belongs to, as in, "the person's fate is made clear in the Nth episode" or something similar? Or is that too much?

Question: The filming began on the first episode on the 17th are there any hints to what is going to happen, other than everybody responding to Bud's brush with death.

Kip: Just what I've said. It will effect everyone. Be fast paced. And most important realistic in what actually happens in such an incident and how everyone reacts. Also a head will roll.

Question:...there will be ramifications for Harm and Mac resulting from Bud accident. It also said that there might be a change in the directions regarding Harm and Mac's relationship. But DPB has already decided aboutr the course of that . also said There are plans for the devlopment of Lt. Singer . Does that Mean Singer will be a bigger character? What relationship are you talking about there is none Between Harm and Mac there just friends . Also after reading the article in Tv Guide what is there to look forward too Mr B said if there were to be together it would be until season 9 or 10 . So thatwould tell me there will be no change between Harm and Mac .

Kip: Too many questions. Not enough time. Let me just say that a change in their relationship can be something other than their becoming lovers or engaged or married etc. They can grow closer as friends or grow further apart. Those two opposites are both a change in their relationship.

Question: Has it been decided when the season opener for Season 8 will take place? Will it be immediately after Bud's accident? Or will some time have passed?

Question: The article in TV guide July6th issue DPB said that Mac and Harm were going to re-evalute their relationship, does this mean dating is in the future and a little romance possible? His comment about they "uniting" being way down the line, does that refer too, "living happily ever after"? Just how much

Question: DPB said in tvguide that Harm and Mac would reevaluate their personal relationship. Will that happen in ... (multiple choice, remember your SAT strategies!)

Question: It will pick up exactly where last season ended. Does it mean that you will gradually work the time back to the current in the first few episodes as you did last year?

Question: Is Jingo going to be seen any more? Or has the pooch gone to puppy dog heaven? Without Brumby to walk him, his use as a plot device is, admittedly, limited...

Question: You said there would be ramifacations for Harm and Mac becuase of what happen with Bud Then it goes to say that there will be a change in direction in the Harm and Mac relationship. So does this mean they are going back to the way they were in season 5 and 6 where they did not speak to much to each other . Becuase the way the relationship was going they were heading back to being close again. I also read that they are going to develope Lt Singer more does that mean she will take Bud's place as one of the top lawyers.

Question: I know I would like to see Randy Vasquez come back to JAG. He is a great actor. Kip do you know if he will? I know he was in a couple of the last eps last season.

Kip: Randy is not in the first four or five episodes. This is because as a character he was in Afghanistan and those episodes don't take place there. We assume he will return to JAG at the appropriate time.

Kip: I spoke to soon. The first episode does open in Afganistan where the last season left off. After that it's back stateside. And Gunny isn't in the first episode.

Question: Is that because Randy wants to have more freedom for other projects, or TPTB are struggling with how to give Randy enough screen time since Gunny's reassignment to the infantry?

Kip: Due to his reassignment to Afghanistan. Following the last three episodes of season seven, DPB feels there has been enough Afghanistan in the show and its time to get back to mainline JAG stories. I'm sure Gunny will be returned at some point, but it's not in the first three episodes.

Question: Has DPB made a decision on the "direction" of the H/M relationship yet? (you don't have to say if it's good or bad for the shippers, just if he's decided yet)

Question: Do either of you know whether PL is using any of the short time available during the summer hiatus to research his upcoming role as an amputee--such as visting with amputees at military hospitals; listening in at support groups, etc., and, if so, can you give us a general idea of what he is/will be doing?

I'm sure he's looking forward to the acting challenge presented by this role, and is as excited to take it on as we are to see him tackle it. It's going to call for a lot of finesse, but if any group/person can pull it off, it's the JAG writing team/PL.

Harriet: Patrick and the rest of the cast and crew will be back July 17; DPB and his writing staff will be busy getting scripts ready from now on. (I'll post the names and titles shortly).

I've already spoken of my girlfriend's loss of a limb, and of her rehab group, and both would be more than agreeable to advise Patrick. In any event, there would, of course, be a technical adviser to assist in the proper representation.

Harriet: Well, of course. And Don McGill, too. DPB, as always, will let us know the names and titles of his Season 8 writing staff shortly and we'll post same.