TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE

"Alias," 7 p.m., ABC. Jennifer Garner's pregnancy can help bring new viewers to this brilliant but perplexing show. It gave "Alias" a chance to introduce a newcomer, someone for Syd (Garner) to mentor. That becomes an entry point for people to start or resume watching the show. The character is Rachel Gibson, who is played by Rachel Nichols. This summer, Nichols was terrific in Fox's "The Inside." Now she's ideal as a hesitant desk dweller, thrust into action. Tonight, she has her first solo mission. And, yes, she'll gradually learn the martial arts moves that Garner is so good at.

OF NOTE

"The O.C.," 7 p.m., Fox. Sandy isn't sure about selling the family business. Meanwhile, his wife is pressed into putting on a charity event with Julie.

"CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," 8 p.m., CBS. A policeman was killed during a long chase involving a gang. But did gang members shoot him or was something else involved?

"ER," 9 p.m., NBC. Neela is dressed up for Gallant's return when she gets a surprise phone call. She also has a disturbing duty at work when she's supposed to save the life of the person who shot a cop and a child.

TONIGHT ON KHNL NEWS 8

On K5 News at Nine, we take you to Las Vegas for an insider's look at Hawai'i's fav-orite vacation destination in "Vegas Minute." Plus, a new threat to America's security, but this one calls for a close look the ocean. Tune in to our special report, "Eye on the Ocean."