Midseason TV Preview: NBC Premiere Schedule and Trailers

Of all the mid-season scheduling for early 2012, NBC's may be the most talked about. Most of this is due to the fact that NBC has put "Community" on an indefinite hiatus to make room for the return of "30 Rock," keeping "Whitney" on the schedule despite its poor numbers and reviews.

But there's also a lot to be excited about with NBC's midseason schedule, including the return of "The Voice" (which, I swear to you, is much better than "American Idol") and the premiere of the musical drama "Smash," which is kind of like "Glee" for adults.

Check out all of the premiere dates and times for NBC's 2011-2012 midseason schedule below:

New Shows:

"Who's Still Standing" - Monday, Dec. 19th at 8pm

We've seen some ridiculous and sometimes demeaning things happen to game show contestants in the past. While "Who's Still Standing" might not be the most insulting, it's definitely unique: contestants must answer trivia questions correctly, or else a trap door will open underneath them and they'll fall into a pit, where presumably they are incinerated (I may have made up that last part).

"The Firm" - Sunday, Jan. 8th at 9pm

Based on the John Grisham novel (and, I suppose, the movie of the same title), "The Firm" looks to blend legal procedural with espionage and action.

"Are You There, Chelsea?" - Wednesday, Jan. 11th at 8:30pm

A new half-hour comedy for NBC, "Are You There, Chelsea?" is created by comedienne and E! talk host Chelsea Handler. The show will star Lauren Prepon of "That 70's Show" fame, and is based on Handler's book "Are You There, Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea." Presumably the alcohol reference warranted a name change.

"Smash" - Monday, Feb. 6th at 10pm

This musical drama centers on a small town girl (most likely livin' in a lonely world) who takes a midnight train (or car) to New York City to become a star on Broadway. She lands a role in a new hit play about Marilyn Monroe, and must deal with the pressures of the show and a rivalry with a fellow actress. Think "Glee" after high school.

"Fashion Star" - Tuesday, Mar. 13th at 9pm

Elle MacPherson hosts this new fashion competition show, which aims to revitalize a sector of reality TV that has languished as "Project Runway" lost viewers. MacPherson will be joined by Jessica Simpson, John Varvatos and Nicole Richie, so there's some star power here.

Returning Shows:

"Fear Factor" - Monday, Dec. 12th at 8pm

It's back! This could be considered a new show as "Fear Factor" has been off the air for a while, and this is really more like a reboot. The show promises less of the gross stuff (that got a little out of hand the last time around) and more adrenaline-pumping stunts.

"The Biggest Loser" - Tuesday, Jan. 3rd at 8pm

New contestants and a new trainer will mark the return of "Biggest Loser" in 2012. Anna Kournikova will be leaving the show after just one season (much to the delight, it seems, of the show's fans).

"30 Rock" - Thursday, Jan. 12th at 8pm

Coming back mid-season after Tina Fey's maternity leave, "30 Rock" will be entering its sixth season in 2012. Expect more of the rapid-fire humor and awesome guest stars (here's hoping for more Brian Williams).

"Who Do You Think You Are??" - Friday, Feb. 3rd at 8pm

Genealogy has never been so fun! This documentary reality series explores the family history of a smattering of celebrities, which in the past has included Gwyneth Paltrow, Steve Buscemi, Spike Lee, and many others. Next season's celebs have yet to be announced.

"The Voice" - Sunday, Feb. 5th at 10pm

Back for a second season after a successful debut last year, "The Voice" brings a new slant to the vocal competition reality show. The blind auditions, in which the judges must choose their "team" solely on the performers' voices, is fun to watch, and since contestants on the show can have professional credits, the talent level is pretty high.

"The Apprentice" - Sunday, Feb. 12th at 9pm

It will be tough to top last year's "Celebrity Apprentice" circus, which soared thanks to Gary Busey's insanity (kites and steaks, people, they go hand in hand). But there's always room for drama on this show, so stay tuned for the casting announcement.