The Simpsons: An Uncensored, Unauthorized History
We hope you’re sitting down, because what we are about to suggest is something so shocking, so unexpected and so out of character that everything you thought you knew about this TV Addict will change. Ready? Brace yourself because our inagural gift idea involves turning off the TV and … wait for it… picking up a book! Written by fellow Toronto TV Addict John Ortved, The Simpsons: An Uncensored, Unauthorized History is a must read for any fan of the iconic FOX animated series. Comprised of interviews with almost every major player involved in the creation of the series (save for current players and Matt Groening/Sam Simon who may-or-may-not-have been otherwise occupied swimming in a vault of money Scrooge McDuck style), the uncensored unauthorized history gives fans a first hand account on how those SIMPSONS came to be. Jam-packed with enough interesting anecdotes (Freaky Fact: Seth MacFarlane was a missed-flight away from perishing in the 9/11 attacks), shocking tales (A first episode that FOX execs called “awful” and “unfilmable” almost scrapped the series entirely) and like all good Hollywood tales… more drama off-screen than on with executives and writers stabbing each other in the back over credit, we guarantee that this page-turner will have you putting down your remote until you’re done. [On sale for $27.00 $17.82 on Amazon]
Slingbox
Are you a frequent commuter, traveller or student? If so, have we got the gadget to make your commute, hotel stay or tedious physics class fly by! Meet Slingbox, a handy little gift from the TV Gods that allows you to watch your TV anywhere there is an internet connection. Laptop, iPhone or Blackberry, your entire PVR/DVR is only a click away. [On sale for $179.99 $139.95 on Amazon]
TV Posters
The only thing cooler than this unique collection of TV posters that pairs down some of yours (and our) favorite shows into ridiculously cool minimalist designs is that now you can own them for yourself. (Although, on second thought, probably not so cool for your wallet.) [Visit website]
Flat Screen TV’s
If you’re serious about your TV addiction, and we mean really serious, you haven’t seen nothing until you’ve witnessed DEXTER’s Trinity Killer commit gruesome acts of murder in the nude in glorious high definition. Which is why, if you have the money to spend, it’s time to curb that addiction to buying TV on DVD and invest in the must-own accessory to any TV Addict’s living room: A flat-screen TV, preferably 42″.
Paley Festival on iTunes
For any TV Addict who ever wished they could send their loved one to one of the Paley Festival’s annual events, welcome to the next best thing: The Paley Festival on iTunes, where the stars and creators of your favorite television shows (WEEDS, BATTLESTAR GALACTICA, HOUSE, GREY’S ANATOMY, and GOSSIP GIRL to name a few) converge throughout the year for live and unscripted discussions. It’s all the fun and informative entertainment of being there, with the added bonus of being able to fast-forward through some of the inane fan questions and self-indulgent moderators. [Visit iTunes to check out 30 plus episodes available for only $1.99 a piece] 