Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE

"Birds of Prey," 8 p.m., WB. This series aired its sleek pilot last week, introducing some great characters. There's Helena Kyle (Ashley Scott), the troubled one. Her mother, Catwoman, was killed; her dad, Batman, disappeared without knowing he had a daughter. She'd be happy to fade into the Gotham bar scene. There's Barbara Gordon (Dina Meyer), the determined one. Once Batgirl and now paralyzed from the waist down by a bullet, she nudges and guides Helena in fighting evil as Huntress. And there's Dinah (Rachel Starsten), the sensitive one. She's a teenager with revealing visions. This trio operates in a city that includes the nasty Harley Quinn (Mia Sara) and the confused-but-honest detective Jesse Reese (Shemar Moore). Tonight, a killer — who can transform into liquid — pursues Jesse.

OF NOTE

"On Stage at the Kennedy Center," 8 p.m., PBS. An all-performance night begins with this special devoted to composer Richard Rodgers. Younger stars Audra McDonald and Kristin Chenoweth join a lineup that includes veterans John Raitt, Howard Keel and Shirley Jones.

"Ed," 7 p.m., NBC. Dan Lauria, the "Wonder Years" dad, guests as Carol's father. She's worried about his reaction to her engagement — then gets a bigger surprise from him. Meanwhile, Eli (who's in a wheelchair) is supposed to be in a dance contest; Ed, an awful dancer, tries to fill in.

"My Wife and Kids," 7 p.m., ABC. Jay finds, and reads, her daughter's diary.

"The West Wing," 8 p.m., NBC. As the election nears, this show could have some of its best moments. Tonight, the president prepares for a debate. Meanwhile, Toby tries to reconcile with his wife, and we get flashbacks to the start of the administration.

"The Ship," 6-8 p.m., History Channel. This wraps up the three-night reality series with modern people trying to duplicate one of Capt. James Cook's epic voyages.