TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE

Democratic convention, 2 p.m. PBS; 4 p.m. NBC, CBS, ABC; 5:30 p.m. NBC; 9 p.m. CBS, cable channels. For the first time in decades, the networks are taking the conventions seriously. Still, that doesn't mean they'll spend much time there. ABC, CBS and NBC don't start until 4 p.m.; only PBS will start coverage at 2 p.m. On cable and satellite, things are better. Ostensibly, CNN starts at noon and other cable news stations will start later. In truth, cable news channels will be there all day, anchoring other shows from the convention. TV One even has a "DNC After-party" show.

TONIGHT'S MIGHT-SEE

"America's Toughest Jobs" debut, 8 p.m., NBC. Most of the 13 contestants come from comfy office jobs. Each week, they'll tackle tough work; then one is ousted. That starts with a fishing boat, seasickness and 40-pound bags that one contestant can't lift. Tonight's hour is loud, grim and moderately entertaining.

OF NOTE

"The Black List: Volume One," 6 p.m., HBO. In a wonderfully stripped-down format, people simply look at the camera and talk about black life. Many — Toni Morrison, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Keenen Ivory Wayans, more — have brilliant perceptions. The only flaw is that the show's tone needs at least a tad of variety.

"Prison Break," 7 p.m., Fox. The new season starts next week, so here's a rerun of the finale. It's tough, harsh, well-made and sometimes excessive.

"The Apprentice: U.K." debut, 7 p.m., CNBC. In this British version, Sir Alan Sugar — crusty and frank — does the hiring. Unlike the American version, this doesn't seem obsessed with pretty contestants. Also, it rains a lot. That's during a flower-selling mission that sees one team crumble, then recover.

"Saving Grace," 7 p.m., TNT. In the summer finale, a murder case is overshadowed by Ham's personal pain. It's an emotional hour, as he crumbles into drink and despair.

"Big Bang Theory," 8 p.m., CBS. In a funny rerun, Sheldon is thrown off the physics bowl team. He's replaced by his nemesis (Sara Gilbert).

"The Closer," 9 p.m., TNT. When Sanchez's brother is shot, emotions seethe. This is a raw, passionate hour. The story is minimal, but director Kevin Bacon gets great performances from his wife (Kyra Sedgwick) and her co-stars.