Tube Notes
By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service
Tonight's Must-See
"Almost Famous" (2000), 7 p.m., ABC. Long before Cameron Crowe was the gifted writer-director of "Jerry Maguire," he was a 15-year-old, writing for rock magazines. Now he's turned that memory, slightly fictionalized, into a fun movie with great human details. Patrick Fugit and Billy Crudup, respectively, are excellent as the teen and one of the rockers he admires. The real revelation, however, is Kate Hudson as groupie Penny Lane. Only 20 when she made the movie, Hudson gave a performance of extraordinary depth, juggling brashness and fragility.
"Nashville Star," 10 p.m., USA Network. With Jennifer Hicks ousted last week, four talented men remain. Tonight, we see them perform in their home towns. We learn who's been ousted and then we catch a final song original or not from the three survivors. Lance Miller and Brad Cotter happen to be great songwriters, George Canyon has a superstar voice and look, and Matt Lindahl offers comic relief. On May 1, one will be named the big winner.
Of Note
"The Price is Right," 7 p.m., CBS. Tonight the audience is filled with teachers. Some will be able to spin the wheel for a chance to win a million-dollar prize.
"Iz: The Man Behind The Music," 9 p.m., KGMB. A rerun of the first comprehensive documentary on the life of Hawaiian music legend Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, this television biography is made up of reminiscences shared by friends and family. Musical performances by Iz many never seen before are included, along with a look at how his music has posthumously gained a worldwide following.
"Saturday Night Live," 10:30 p.m., NBC. Christina Aguilera hosts this rerun with Maroon 5 as musical guest. That begs the question of why Aguilera (with a great voice) even needs a musical guest.