Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"The West Wing," 8 p.m., NBC. Tonight, the fictional re-election campaign of President Bartlet turns serious. This episode is set on the day of the Iowa caucuses. Meanwhile, Josh and Amy — played by the talented Bradley Whitford and Mary-Louise Parker — learn more about their relationship.

"West Point," 9 p.m., PBS. At its best, the U.S. military academy prepared brilliant leaders. During the Civil War, there were West Point grads on both sides. And at its worst? It banned blacks, banned women and failed to discourage hazing. This richly researched film leans toward the positive side, but spends time during its second hour studying the alternative. It's a deep and well-made documentary.

Of Note

"American Family," 8 p.m., PBS. As a comet passes by, people think of romance. That includes Aunt Dora (Raquel Welch), who's planning a surprise wedding for her daughter.

"That '80s Show," 7 p.m., FOX. Here's the second episode for this likable new comedy. Tonight, Corey (the aspiring rock musician) has his song played at a club — but in altered form.

"Biography," 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., A&E. Here's a documentary about the life of the quiet and talented Chicago Bears running back.

"The Bernie Mac Show," 8 p.m., FOX. Vanessa is supposed to be in charge of the younger kids. She doesn't have much time, though, after making the gymnastics team.

"Law & Order," 9 p.m., NBC. Tonight the focus is on Assistant District Attorney Serena Southerlyn (Elisabeth Rohm). She volunteers to be the lawyer for a man who's holding hostages and is suspected of having killed two women.