David, please please interview more showrunners on Fresh Air -- they are the most important of any show (the equivalent to a director in feature films). Mike Royce who co-created the show is such an important influence. If the show continues I would hope Fresh Air would be able to interview him as well. In the meantime I will be eagerly waiting for your interview with Romano.

[I love talking with show runners myself, and many of my Fresh Air interviews indeed are with those key TV figures. But don't minimize Romano's involvement here -- on Men of a Certain Age, he's involved in the writing, filming and editing of every episode, as well as co-starring. -- DB]

Thanks for the interview. I had no idea that Owen was meant for Wendell Pierce! That would have worked it its own way, I'm sure, but I think things worked out just right. I fell in love with Andre Braugher on Homicide and I am falling in love with this other side of him as Owen. And I think Wendell Pierce's comedic energies are put to perfect use with Antoine Batiste. They are two of my favorite men of a certain age (and a certain weight!) and I'm happy to see them in such appropriate vehicles for their talents.

[Thanks, Mara. I couldn't have said it better myself. In fact, I didn't. -- DB]

No not diminishing Romano's role.

TNT needs to renew this show. I mean which show on their network is going to win them a Peabody award? Elvis has a better chance of winning an Emmy than anyone on Memphis Beat. Who are you kidding TNT you need this show.