Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"Las Vegas," 8 p.m., NBC. With the "sweeps" ratings period starting on Thursday, shows are already piling up guest stars. Tonight, Jon Lovitz plays a forlorn guest who is ready to commit suicide. Danny and Ed try to stop him and that soon creates fresh problems. Meanwhile, Paris Hilton (the saner heiress on "The Simple Life") plays someone who complicates Sam's new romance. Also guest starring is singer Paul Anka.

Of Note

"Gladiator" (2000), 7 p.m., ABC. Here's that rare case of a sprawling historical epic that still has a brain and a soul. Ridley Scott skillfully directed with Russell Crowe superb as an honest warrior surrounded by schemers. Even for this three-hour slot, the film will have to be trimmed a bit; the cuts should help it.

"That '70s Show," 7 & 7:30 p.m., Fox. In the first rerun, Kelso gets called to an argument between Fez and Laurie. In the second, Eric worries about going away to college after his dad's heart attack.

"Yes, Dear," 7 p.m., CBS. Jerry Van Dyke plays Jimmy's father, who's an untrustworthy baby-sitter.

"Still Standing," 7:30 p.m., CBS. Brian gets new popularity when he does statistics for the basketball team.

"Everybody Loves Raymond," 8 p.m., CBS. Debra and the kids make bets about Ray's shaky behavior. He's not amused.

"Two and a Half Men," 8:30 p.m., CBS. Richard Lewis plays Charlie's financial manager who advises him against spending so much.

"Average Joe: Hawaii," 9 p.m., NBC. The last two weeks have been a respite with no ejections. That changes tonight when Larissa must boot three average guys and three of the handsome latecomers, leaving five of each. First, the average Joes take her on a horseback date.

"CSI: Miami," 9 p.m., CBS. A cigar-maker, linked to Cuban refugees, has been killed.