Posted on: Tuesday, April 16, 2002
Tube Notes
Tonight's Must-See
• "Andy Richter Controls the Universe," 7:30 p.m., Fox. A wickedly perverse humor runs through this episode. Budget cuts have been so infuriating that even Andy's boss (Paget Brewster) wants revenge. She joins a messy attack on the guy in charge; then comes an instant reversal. There's a dark sense of humor here that will alienate some people and tickle others. Give it a try. • "The Shield," 7 p.m., Fx. This cop show has soared quickly, getting great ratings (by cable standards) and rave reviews. It has a gritty look and flawed, but fascinating characters. As Detective Vic Mackey, Michael Chiklis ("The Commish") gives us the most interesting TV cop this side of "NYPD Blue." Tonight, the squad has
24 hours to catch a serial killer. Detective Dutch Wagenbach wants to run things his way. Mackey, however, detours into the disturbing world of underage prostitution. Don't expect any easy wrap-up tonight. Do expect some detours and some tough, taut moments.
• "The Shape of Life," 9 and 10 p.m., PBS. Some animals have a knack for survival. Tonight's first hour looks at the ones — snail, squid, octopus — that use intelligence and strong defenses. The second hour, closing this three-week series, features Gail Kaaialii, a marine biologist at Chaminade University and footage shot on O'ahu, and views the ultimate survivor, the spiny starfish.
Of Note
• "JAG," 7 p.m., CBS. A two-part rerun begins with Harm sent to negotiate the release of a spy plane captured in China.
• "Dharma & Greg," 7 p.m., ABC. Lately, the show has been paying attention to Greg's secretary, Marlene — played by Yeardley Smith, who is also the cartoon voice of Lisa Simpson. Tonight, Dharma has to entertain Marlene's parents.
— Mike Hughes, Gannett News Service
