SANTA MONICA—HBO Studios is really winning in the ratings war with their late spring and early summer series. “Treme” is winning over more viewers every week. With the current environmental disaster on the Gulf coast, the unintended consequences make shows set in New Orleans more popular than ever before. During Sunday night’s pivotal episode as New Orleans geared up for its first Fat Tuesday since Katrina, Albert (Clarke Peters) was sent a less-than-celebratory message by the NOPD. This storyline reminded me of the old saying, “aren’t they tired of New Orleans yet?” The residents have returned to a flood ravaged city that seems uninhabitable to most viewers. Though their love for the Emerald City remains as strong as ever before.

Also on Sunday, Sonny (Michael Huisman) left Annie (Lucia Micarelli) to her own devices, which seemed like a mistake to me. LaDonna (Khandi Alexander) put her bad news on hold, in an effort to put the best face forward, the Bernettes made a Mardi Gras appearance, though Creighton’s (John Goodman) heart wasn’t really in it. Goodman plays the role perfectly. Who knew he had such acting chops. This series has fans all over the nation, with our reader Ann being the biggest fan. “I love John Goodman’s acting. He really does make this show so much better. I TVO it and watch it later. I’m addicted to ”˜Treme.’ This series is making me want to visit the city I have always been fascinated with,” said Ann.
Last week’s episode titled “All on a Mardi Gras Day” was written by Eric Overmyer and directed by Anthony Hemingway.