Posted on: Wednesday, January 5, 2005

Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"Lost," 7 p.m., ABC. For four weeks, "Lost" has been resting and showing reruns. That's roughly four months or four years in the minds of people hooked on the show's eerie power. Now "Lost" is back and focusing on one of its best characters. Kate (Evangeline Lilly) is the beauty who has been perfectly behaved since the plane crashed. Still, we've already learned snippets about her criminal ties. Tonight she's obsessed with the contents of a beautiful case.

"Alias" season debut, 8 p.m., ABC. Not since "Dallas" has a show tried such a daring midcourse correction. We learn that everything in the world of super spy Sydney (Jennifer Garner) has changed. The job is changed by a tense scene with her new boss, Hayden Chase, played by Angela Bassett. Soon, she makes a powerhouse discovery that changes life for her dad (Victor Garber) and half-sister (Mia Maestro). This two-hour opener spends way too much time on pregnant pauses and red herrings. Still, it remains a smart and compelling show from J.J. Abrams, the co-creator of "Lost."

Of Note

"Road to Stardom With Missy Elliott" debut, 4 p.m., UPN (KIKU). The "American Idol" formula gets a mobile, big-city flair. Elliott, the hip-hop star, takes 13 young music prospects on the road. One person will win $100,000 and a recording deal.

"Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model Search" debut, 7 p.m., NBC. This reality show will add one newcomer to the magazine's swimsuit issue. With a wise notion of what the viewers want, the 12 contestants soon have a beach shoot.

"Do You Speak American?" 8 p.m., PBS. As ethnic and regional dialects thrive, they seem fun and charming. They also bring a problem: Tests show that people change their perceptions of strangers, depending on their accents. This portrait is hosted by Robert MacNeil. As a native Canadian who worked five years in England, he makes a logical observer of American charm and quirks.

"The West Wing," 8 p.m., NBC. An Internet rumor raises questions about CJ's sexuality; her refusal to comment adds to the controversy. Meanwhile, Santos (Jimmy Smits) says he'll only run for president if Josh handles the campaign.