Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"American Idol" (8 p.m.) and "24" (9 p.m.), both Fox. Viewers received two jolts last week — one from real life, the other fiction. The reality shock came when the talented Ruben Studdard was one of the bottom two vote-getters on "American Idol." Fortunately, Studdard survived; Trenyce did not. Tonight, he's in the final four with Clay Aiken, Kimberley Locke and Justin Gracin. The fictional jolt came in "24" when President Palmer was removed, and the vice president was sworn in as war plans proceeded. With just three episodes left, Jack Bauer scrambles to prove the plot that pushed America into war is a hoax. He has just reached a plotter's house — where the president's estranged wife has a gun. For all its odd twists, this show remains riveting.

Of Note

"8 Simple Rules," 8 p.m., ABC. Two former "Cheers" stars, Shelley Long and John Ratzenberger, guest star. They play a way-too-cheerful couple who are planning a wedding.

"Gilmore Girls," 8 p.m., WB. WB is planning a spin-off series for Jess, the troubled teen played by Milo Ventimiglia. His troubles have grown lately, after he flunked out of high school and fought with Rory; tonight, his dad (Rob Estes of "Melrose Place") shows up. Meanwhile, Lorelei and Sookie have a chance to own the Dragonfly Inn.

"Frasier," 9 p.m., NBC. Frasier and Niles have long realized they have little in common with their dad. Tonight, doubts grow when they realize they have much more in common with their late mother's research partner, played by David Ogden Stiers of "MASH."

"Watching Ellie," 9:30 p.m., NBC. In a moderately funny episode, Ellie is wracked with jealousy. Another singer seems to be thriving while Ellie considers singing for donations in the subway.

"Independent Lens," 10 p.m., PBS. Hawai'i provides a gorgeous backdrop for this portrait of the late Rell Sunn and her love of surfing.