Tube Notes
By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service
Tonight's Must-See
News, 5:30 p.m., NBC. This is Tom Brokaw's final day as anchor. Brokaw, 64, has had the spot for 22 years. He's brought intelligence, wit and something rare — a sense of blue-collar Middle America. Brian Williams takes over tomorrow, with Brokaw doing occasional specials.
"Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," 7 p.m., CBS. This is the 40th anniversary of a special we've always felt was overrated. To be fair, we gave it a fresh look and found some good touches. The dolls are cute and the songs are snappy. Some characters — especially the elf who wants to be a dentist, not a toymaker — are fun.
Of Note
"Nick News: Living With AIDS: A Story of Three Kids," 6:30 p.m., Nickelodeon. Linda Ellerbee has been a leader in telling kids about AIDS. Now, on World AIDS Day, she views the lives of three children, including their expanding pill regimens.
"Frosty's Winter Wonderland," 7 p.m., "Twas the Night Before Christmas" 7:30 p.m. and "Blizzard" (2003), 8 p.m., ABC Family. The "25 Days of Christmas" marathon is officially upon us; ABC Family will be stuffed with holiday cartoons and movies. Tonight, that includes an odd sequel (Frosty getting married), a bad cartoon (thin-skinned Santa skips a town because of bad press) and an almost new movie about a magic reindeer.
"Lost," 7 p.m., ABC. We start to learn more about Claire, the quiet young woman who is pregnant.
"The Apprentice," 7 p.m., NBC. ABC's "Lost" has already crushed two NBC shows ("Hawaii" and "LAX") this season. Tonight, NBC tosses in a catch-up hour of "The Apprentice."
"Doc" finale, 7 p.m., Pax TV. If you missed Sunday's episode, catch this quick rerun. There are contrivances as Doc (Billy Ray Cyrus) prepares to leave New York, but there are also some moving moments.
"Nick & Jessica's Family Christmas," 8 p.m., ABC. Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson, the married pop stars, lead a variety special with music from her sister (Ashlee), his group (98 Degrees) and Brian McKnight.
"The West Wing," 8 p.m., NBC. Now there are two vice presidents to worry about. The old one (Tim Matheson) is back, running for president.
"King of Queens," 8 p.m., CBS. Doug and Arthur are supposed to behave at Carrie's office party.
"Project Runway" debut, 8 and 10 p.m., Bravo. Instead of looking for models, this show goes for the real talent — the people who design the clothes.
"CSI: NY," 9 p.m., CBS. A mounted police officer is killed.
