LOS ANGELES — CBS has pulled the medical drama "3 Lbs." from its schedule, effective immediately. While "3 Lbs.," starring Stanley Tucci as an eccentric brain surgeon, has not been officially canceled, it could become the third consecutive scripted drama to wither on the Tuesday 10 p.m. vine after exactly three episodes.

CBS canceled the long-running drama two seasons back amid concerns that the Emmy-winning series was skewing too old. CBS initially filled the spot with "Close to Home," but that show struggled before moving to Fridays and becoming a minor hit.CBS had high hopes for "Love Monkey," but it aired only three times early this year.The jinx looked to be over when the network programmed "Smith," one of its most hyped and star-studded pilots for Tuesdays. Instead, "Smith" was the season's first cancelation, lasting only three episodes, playing out the string online.

LOS ANGELES — After Dan Hedaya's memorable appearance as Monk's dad on the recent holiday episode, the award-winning series will return with even more guest stars for its fifth season, which kicks off Jan. 19.Among the actors joining Tony Shalhoub is "Lord of the Rings" hobbit Sean Astin. On the show, Astin will play the son of a wealthy couple (Holland Taylor, Michael Cavanaugh), neighbors of Natalie's parents. When the couple mysteriously dies, Monk questions the son while investigating the possibility of foul play.Astin also guest starred on "24," and provided the narration for Animal Planet's popular "Meerkat Manor.""Monk's" new season also boasts other guest stars, including: "Studio 60" actor Steven Weber, Ricardo Chavira ("Desperate Housewives"), Charles Durning, "Frazier's" Dan Butler and funnyman Andy Richter.'Monk' airs at 10 p.m. Fridays on USA Network, Channel 23.