TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE

"True Blood" debut, 6 p.m., HBO. Sookie Stackhouse doesn't quite fit this backwoods town. She's a sweet-looking waitress who hears people's thoughts. And she has a bubbly glee about something new. With synthetic blood, vampires no longer need be criminals. Many are in the open — and one has moved to town. That launches a spree of envy, sex, violence and mystery. "True Blood" is a passionate and visceral series. Alan Ball ("Six Feet Under") beautifully adapted this from Charlaine Harris' novels. He directed, with Anna Paquin leading a superb cast.

TONIGHT'S MIGHT-SEE

Video Music Awards, 9 p.m., MTV; red carpet at 8. Russell Brand, who was brilliant as the rock star in "Forgetting Sarah Marshall," hosts. Performers are expected to include Rihanna, Pink, Lil Wayne and the Jonas Brothers. Also, expect lots of awards, plus odd surprises.

OF NOTE

"Charlie & Lola," 11:30 a.m., Disney Channel. This British cartoon charms any age. In a new, fun episode, Lola struggles with hiccups.

"Hole in the Wall," 8 p.m., Fox. After some late switches, Fox apparently plans a "preview" episode of this game show, which debuts Sept. 11.

"Samurai Girl" conclusion, 8-10 p.m., ABC Family. When this three-night miniseries began, Heaven thought she was an ordinary bride-to-be. Now she knows she's been prophesied for great powers; strong forces are trying to stop her.

"America United: In Support of Our Troops," 8-10 p.m., ABC. Janet Jackson, Jordin Sparks, Snoop Dogg and ZZ Top perform. So do country's Toby Keith, Clint Black and Joe Nichols, plus country convert Jessica Simpson and comedians D.L. Hughley, Kathy Griffin and Carlos Mencia.

"Entourage" season opener, 7 p.m., HBO. Vince's attempt at an art film, "Medellin," was an artless disaster. Now he takes solace amid bikini beauties, while his agent scrambles to find him a job; it's a lively and entertaining episode.

"Sandhogs" debut, 7 p.m., History Channel. The guys who dig tunnels under New York are a tough and likable bunch. Still, this reality show confined by its dark, drab setting has only a limited appeal.