Boy wonder

"Billy Elliot the Musical Live" may not be packed with familiar tunes, but there are enough toe-tapping numbers and bawdy jokes to keep even Broadway-averse viewers from taking a snooze. Stick around for the curtain call featuring 25 young actors who, at one point or another, tackled the demanding title role. 8 p.m. Friday, TPT, Ch. 2

Frankly speaking

The title "Compared to What: The Improbable Journey of Barney Frank" may seem a bit lengthy, but it perfectly matches its long-winded subject matter, an openly gay legislator whose bluster and bravado have helped define his long commitment to U.S. politics. Alec Baldwin is among the documentary's executive producers. 8 p.m. Friday, Showtime

King's things

I can't think of a better lead-up to Halloween than a weeklong tribute to Stephen King, which kicks off with the double feature of two lesser-known projects: "The Mist" (7 p.m.) and "Thinner" (9:45 p.m.). Look for other selections during prime time through next weekend. Sunday, Sundance Channel

Popular science

"StarTalk Hosted by Neil deGrasse Tyson," which sets off on its second season, is a noble mash-up of science and pop culture. If only the host weren't so pleased with his mediocre jokes — and his access to big names, such as Bill Clinton, who, to be fair, seems downright giddy to be in the astrophysicist's presence. Maybe my disastrous science experiment in high school chemistry class is clouding my judgment. 10 p.m. Sunday, National Geographic Channel

Neal Justin