This season has been filled with stunt casting on various sitcoms. Bringing in famous faces to booster ratings has been a theme. Some work well in the story, and occasionally fit in as well as a regular. Here are my thoughts on many of the latest ’stunt casts’.

Britney Spears, HIMYM: I was really worried about this, but in the end it worked fine. Having Spears on didn’t add or take away from my enjoyment of the show. My only disappointment is that it took away from the real casting of the wonderful Sarah Chalke. Sarah has been amazing on HIMYM and I hope she continues to be a part of the show. Hopefully Britney’s second episode will work as well.

Sarah Gilbert, Big Bang Theory:This is where stunt casting worked well. Gilbert’s style fit perfectly into this show, and made for terrific chemistry between her and former Rosanne castmate Galecki. I’m glad she didn’t become a regular, but am delighted that she shows up every so often. I should also mention Lori Metcalf as Sheldon’s mother. Another former Rosanne cast member who worked well.

Alyssa Milano, Earl: This is my favorite bit of stunt casting. Alyssa works so well on Earl that I hope she stays through until next season. For me, she has become a huge part of the show, and if rumors are correct, becomes even more integral. I’m not sure how I feel about the recent marriage, but I’ll give Greg Garcia the benefit of the doubt.

Paris Hilton, Earl: Paris on Earl actually worked, and added to the show. She had less than a minute of screen time, and spent that time making fun of herself. I am not a fan of Hilton’s acting, singing, modeling, or general attitude, but I will admit that this worked. This was her best performance ever (coincidentally her shortest).

Lindsey Lohan, Ugly Betty: This one hasn’t aired yet, but I decided to mention it anyway. I’m a casual viewer of Betty, but do admit it is a good show. On the other hand, Lohan wasn’t a good actress when she was sober, so I can’t imagine this will work well. I didn’t think “Ugly Betty” needed the ratings boost, but maybe I’m wrong. Who knows how this one will work out.

So what do you think? What is your opinion of stunt casting? How will Britney’s second stint on HIMYM work out? What about Lohan on “Ugly Betty”?