Posted on: Tuesday, March 8, 2005

Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"Blind Justice" debut, 9 p.m., ABC. Jim Dunbar (Ron Eldard) feels the world is against him. A tough cop and ex-soldier, he was blinded by a bullet. He fought in courts and got his old job back. People respect him, but no one wants to work with him. His wife (Rena Sofer) is frustrated by his stoic bitterness. If it weren't for his guide dog, he'd have no friends. In most hands, this show would never work.

Believability is constantly being strained from the immense abilities of Dunbar to the extremeness of his critics. Still, "Blind Justice" overcomes all flaws. Eldard is terrific, and so is Marisol Nichols as his reluctant police partner.

Producer Steven Bochco brings his usual strong writing and directing. Bochco usually gives us sprawling shows with tangled casts, including "NYPD Blue," "L.A. Law" and "Hill Street Blues." Now comes something rare — a Bochco hour with one person at the core. That means strong, sharp storytelling. "Blind Justice" is a winner.

Of Note

"American Idol," 7 p.m., Fox. Eight more singers perform and the results will be announced Wednesday.

"My Wife and Kids," 7 p.m., ABC. Michael gets grumpy as he tries to lose weight.

"House," 8 p.m., Fox. The brilliant and cranky Dr. Gregory House (Hugh Laurie), one of TV's great characters, has dominated the hospital. Colleagues and administrators seem helpless. Now comes a fresh force.