Sunday Fall Out Boy's Pete Wentz and Ashlee Simpson scoot Hemingway, their English bulldog, into the spotlight on a new episode of "The Dog Whisperer" (7 p.m., National Geographic), one that kicks off a week with host Cesar Millan in prime time. The power couple apparently are concerned about how their dog will react to their newborn. If only they were as worried about the kid's reaction to Simpson's last album.

Monday In "Ron Howard: 50 Years in Film" (7 p.m., TCM), the Oscar-winning director generously and methodically reviews his stellar career, including insight into the perils of making "Backdraft" and darkside of "Ransom." Unfortunately, the Richard Schickel documentary fails to dissect Howard's glorious rendition of "Gary, Indiana" from "The Music Man," his inspired narration for "Arrested Development" or the flick "Gung Ho," in which Michael Keaton plays a manager trying to fight cutbacks in the auto industry.

Tuesday My favorite holiday tradition has nothing to do with decorating the tree or sitting down to a ham dinner. It's all about enjoying every minute of "The Kennedy Center Honors" (8 p.m., WCCO, Ch. 4), and this year's offering should be quite a treat. The saluted: George Jones, Morgan Freeman, Barbra Streisand, Twyla Tharp and Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey. I'm not sold on including the Who (none of the Rolling Stones or Beatles has been inducted) but it's hard to argue with the rest of the list. Enjoy.

Wednesday I once celebrated New Year's Eve in Times Square. Big mistake, unless you really want to be jostled by a group of loud drunks when the ball drops. Instead, opt for the comforts provided by a TV set -- and let the pros do all the hard work. "NBC's New Year's Eve With Carson Daly" (9 p.m., KARE, Ch. 11) will include a satellite performance by Elton John put together by acclaimed photographer David LaChapelle. "Dick Clark's Primetime New Year's Rockin' Eve With Ryan Seacrest 2008" (9 p.m., KSTP, Ch. 5) boasts the longest title in history and performances by the Pussycat Dolls and Lionel Richie. For something completely different, check out America's sweethearts on "New Year's Eve With Anderson Cooper and Kathy Griffin" (10 p.m., CNN).

Thursday If you think you have a nasty New Year's Eve hangover, get a load of Dudley Moore's headache in "Arthur" (7 p.m., BBC America). The 1981 gem also features a hilariously sober performance by Sir John Gielgud. (Warning to parents: Make sure your kids don't tune in thinking they'll be watching the animated adventures of the aardvark Arthur.)

NEAL JUSTIN