Haven't I seen you before?; New TV lineup recycles familiar ideas

24. If the networks are lucky, that's how many of the three dozen or so network TV shows premiering this fall that will still be around by Christmas. The Sopranos. As the saying goes, it ain't over till they sing. By early October, though, expect to hear swansongs for some of the new shows. What does it say about the 2002-03 television season that no first-year premiere has created the same buzz as the season premieres of Fox's "24," last year's critical favorite, or other returning series like HBO's "The Sopranos"? It means, dear viewer, that this is the least ambitious network schedule in years. Derivative detective shows. Copycat comedies. Doctors and lawyers galore. Shows "from the producers of" other shows, often involving the same ideas and story lines, but with new cast members and new time slots. Sad to say, America, but you asked for it. You embraced the "Law & Order" spinoffs. So now you're getting "CSI: Miami," with former "NYPD Blue" heartthrobs David Caruso and Kim Delaney. You liked those ABC family comedies, so the network added two more this year. Fox was inspired by Bernie Mac's success to offer a show to his "Original Kings of Comedy" pal Cedric the Entertainer. Original it's not, but the fall schedule is not without its gems. "The Twilight Zone" is a highly watchable tribute to the Rod Serling original. "John Doe," which may be the most interesting new show, helps itself to ideas previously seen on "Dark Angel" and "The Pretender." To reach Aaron Barnhart, phone (816) 234-4790 or visit the TV Barn Web site at www.tvbarn.com @ART CAPTION:Larry David of HBO's 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' @ART CAPTION:Who am I? What network am I on? @ART CAPTION:I used to be 'Blue' now I'm South Beach cool @ART CAPTION:Take ratings numbers from my time slot? I don't think so, my network friend. @ART CAPTION:Yes. I'd like to place an order of mid-season replacements @ART:Photos (5, color)