Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"Mark Twain," 8 p.m., PBS; concludes Tuesday. When Ken Burns decided to profile Mark Twain the combination was perfect. Burns is a lay historian who has created great documentaries ("Civil War," "Jazz") without a formal education in history. Here, he studies a self-taught genius. Mark Twain was a humorist who preferred his serious writing. He created memorable images of small-town Missouri, but he spent most of his life in New England mansions. He was a brilliant man who invested his money foolishly. There was more. Twain savored a deep love for his wife and daughters — but was often gone — and sometimes frightened them with his explosive moods. In the midst of this complex life, Twain had wit and insight. All modern literature, Ernest Hemingway once said, begins with "Huckleberry Finn." That was the work of a man who is profiled here with rich depth.

"Monday Night Mayhem," 9 p.m., TNT; repeats at 11. For decades most football telecasts were simply dull. Flat camera work and flatter commentary made us forget that this is a ferocious game played by fascinating people. Then "Monday Night Football" changed everything. It knew that many of the viewers weren't rooting for either team; the telecast had to be an event and it was, thanks to a batch of eccentric individuals. The performances are so-so — John Turturro seems to be doing a comedy-club imitation of Howard Cosell — but the tale itself is great fun.

Of Note

"King of Queens," 7 p.m., CBS. Doug takes Carrie to Atlantic City on the anniversary of their first date.

"Ally McBeal," 8 p.m., FOX. Rock star Jon Bon Jovi plays a handyman who may help Ally with her new house.

"Everybody Loves Raymond," 8 p.m., CBS. Frank's fireplace provides winter warmth — temporarily.

"Forces of Nature" (1999), 8 p.m., ABC. Sandra Bullock plays a free spirit who joins Ben Affleck on a long journey to his wedding.