TV critics' picks: This week

Last update: November 14, 2009 - 6:23 PM

Sunday

Mandy Patinkin, who previously quit CBS dramas "Chicago Hope" and "Criminal Minds," returns to the network for a guest appearance on the organ-donation drama "Three Rivers" (8 p.m., WCCO, Ch. 4). The Emmy winner is most likely returning to his old grounds because he was the recipient of corneal transplants in the late '90s. Also, he left an umbrella in his dressing room.

Monday

It's a big afternoon for daytime viewers. First, Barbra Streisand makes an appointment with "The Doctors" (3 p.m., KARE, Ch. 11) so she can talk about her cardiovascular program at Cedars-Sinai (and see if the gang can help her with that stuffed-up nose). Then, Sarah Palin stops by "The Oprah Winfrey Show" (4 p.m., WCCO, Ch. 4), hoping and praying that it's the day Oprah gives away free Range Rovers.

Tuesday

Since the gang from Gilligan's Island is safe and sound at home, it's up to everyone's favorite zoo animals to provide a more contemporary escape plan. "Merry Madagascar" (7 p.m., KARE, Ch. 11) finds the stranded gang trying to secure Santa's sleigh for their return to New York City. Chris Rock, Ben Stiller, David Schwimmer and Jada Pinkett Smith lend their famous pipes to the new animated special.

Wednesday

The biggest diva at the season finale of "America's Next Top Model" (7 p.m., WUCW, Ch. 23) won't be onstage. He'll be in the audience. Eddie Murphy will be on hand -- and not because he thinks the show is a spinoff of "Dreamgirls." He's there to support his daughter, Bria Murphy, who will be appearing on the runway along with the finalists.

Thursday

You'd think a magician would get enough satisfaction by getting through an act without actually sawing a woman in half or having a pigeon leave doo-doo in his sleeve. Alas, sorcerers appear to need more than that, which explains the existence of "The 2009 World Magic Awards" (7 p.m., WFTC, Ch. 29), a celebration that recognizes everyone from the best teen magician to the best comedy illusionist. Sadly, there is no category for best performance by a white rabbit. Yet.

NEAL JUSTIN

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