Tube Notes
By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service
Tonight's Must-See
"Inside Mecca," 8 p.m., PBS. Once a year, Muslim pilgrims converge on Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Some 2 million people surround a 50-foot-tall shrine. Visually this "National Geographic" hour is dazzling. After establishing the massive scale, "Inside Mecca" turns intimate. It focuses on three pilgrims, none fitting a stereotype. Ismail Mahbob is a prosperous Malaysian businessman. Khalil Mandhlazi is a South African whose radio show deals with the teachings of Islam. Fidelma O'Leary is a neuroscientist in Austin, Texas. O'Leary was born in Ireland to a devout Catholic family. She converted in college but now finds herself an outsider in any situation.
Of Note
"Second Opinion With Dr. Oz," 2 p.m., Discovery Channel. Heart surgeon Mehmet Oz introduces us to two men who need transplants one 59, the other 22. He also interviews another popular cardiologist, Dr. Dean Ornish.
"Ed," 7 p.m., NBC. A working-class dad sues his son for spending money on a college education without graduating. Ed, of course, is trapped in the middle.
"Kid Notorious" debut, 7:30 p.m., Comedy Central. Here's a cartoon based loosely on the audacious life of movie producer Robert Evans. In the opener, he has a hip-hop musical version of "The Godfather." Filled with political incorrectness especially toward blacks and Italians and sexual references, and only moderately funny.
"Lawrence of Arabia: The Battle for the Arab World," 9 p.m., PBS. This documentary traces T.E. Lawrence, the enigmatic Englishman who helped Arabs fight for their independence.
"Karen Sisco," 9 p.m., ABC. Karen is tracking three parolees unaware that her partner on the case has been involved with them.