Bionically bad casting

I’ve been cautiously optimistic about the new “Bionic Woman” since the series was first announced. Super-strong women kicking ass and taking names? Yes, please. The promos look good, the fights looked awesome. OK, I still miss the stuttery “Na-na-na-na-na-na” sound, but you can’t have everything. Then, yesterday came news that scorned “Grey’s Anatomy” actor Isaiah Washington would join the cast for five episodes later in the season. Noooooooooo!

Why would you take a show that is bound to appeal to women (a healthy chunk of whom will certainly be gay) that celebrates powerful, independent women and then pull the rug out from under us by hiring Mr. F-Bomb Dropper? Not cool. I realize that Isaiah has apologized, sought help and been duly punished for his transgressions (like anyone else would in a workplace with a non-discrimination policy). But to hire him again a) so quickly and b) for this show in particular is troubling.

Also troubling, NBC co-chair Ben Silverman’s reasoning and response to the hiring (courtesy Malinda at AfterEllen):

“I started talking to (Isaiah) before he was available ... and when he told me he was available I was like, “You are? I don't understand, what do you mean?” I didn't quite understand ... but the bottom line is he’s a wonderful actor and we think inside the “Bionic Woman,“ the character that was created for him is really strong and one that he'll do a really good job at.”

Wow, uh, is it just me or does Mr. Silverman not really get it? My only hope is that Isaiah will play the villain because then I could see Michelle Ryan lay a serious smack down on his ass. In fact, now I think this might be an inspired bit of casting. Think of the carnage. Not to mention the catharsis.

p.s. Speaking of carnage, check out the latest promo. Damn.