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'Alias' ratings freefall

ABC's spy drama "Alias" has hit a ratings snag this season, a drop that coincided with the death of series regular Michael Vaughn (Michael Vartan).

For the TV week ending Oct. 16, the third episode of the season, the former hit show was in 70th place, attracting just 7.2 million viewers, according to Nielsen Media Research.

Apparently, Mr. Vartan has been filming a movie in Australia, but it wouldn't be a stretch for a spy show to figure out a way to bring a character back from the dead. It isn't clear whether Mr. Vartan chose to end his contract with ABC or if Jennifer Garner, who plays Sydney Bristow and once had a romance with the actor, encouraged his exit.

Time will tell if Mr. Vartan returns for what could be the series' final season.

Those who miss the actor's work on the show can pick up the just-released "Alias: The Complete Fourth Season" on DVD. The six-disc set includes 22 episodes, an interview with Miss Garner, a blooper reel and deleted scenes, among other DVD extras.

ABC's "Alias" returns at 8 tonight.

Who loves Brad?

Talk of an "Everybody Loves Raymond" spinoff featuring co-star Brad Garrett has hit a snag, reports Zap2it.com, citing a story published by the Hollywood Reporter.