Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"24," 8 p.m., FOX. This show's lone fault is the way it stretches believability. Last week, a guy who accidentally shot someone held Jack's daughter hostage. In two seasons, she's broken all records for being held captive. Her dad, however, has a much bigger problem: The president is about to invade three countries after hearing a tape of their leaders scheming to set off a nuclear bomb in Los Angeles. Jack is the only one who believes the tape is a fake. Now a mystery man says he can confirm that — if Jack can bring Kate to him. Can Jack prevent world war? Is Kate being set up? What will his colleagues do? And what will happen to Jack's daughter, the oft-captive teen? Stick around, because "24" is a terrific show.

Of Note

"Three Stooges 75th Anniversary," 7 p.m., NBC. Woody Harrelson directs this moderately entertaining hour. This is the special that NBC scheduled previously, promoted heavily, then pulled.

"8 Simple Rules," 7 p.m., ABC. The network had scheduled Tim Allen's "Home Improvement" special but pulled it because of uncertainty over news coverage. Instead, it has this rerun. Paul is impressed by his daughter's drawings of "The Incredible Boring Woman," without realizing who it is.

"American Idol," 7 p.m., Fox. The remaining nine contestants belt it out in yet another theme night.

"Frasier," 8 p.m., NBC. Frasier helps build a Habitat for Humanity home. Alas, he insists on decorating it, too.

"Lost at Home" debut, 8:30 p.m., ABC. A work-oriented dad (Mitch Rouse) reconnects with his kids.