Penny for your thoughts
One reason "The Big Bang Theory" remains inviting is how producers keep expanding the family, giving viewers new characters to invest in. But somewhere along the line, the show put Penny (Kaley Cuoco) on the sideline. In the first two episodes of season 11, Penny spends most of her screen time swilling wine and rolling her eyes, the same duties she performed last season. Cuoco is too talented to be a well-dressed extra. Let's hope future episodes give her more to do than get buzzed. The promising spinoff "Young Sheldon" follows the premiere.
7 p.m. WCCO, Ch. 4
King of casting
"Kevin Can Wait" may be a sitcom, but there's nothing funny about the way it's treating former cast member Erinn Hayes, whose character is being killed off in an effort to give the show a reboot. The good news: Leah Remini, Kevin James' co-star from "King of Queens," is on board, a decision the producers should have made from the get-go.
8 p.m. WCCO, Ch. 4
Bedside manner
David Shore just can't check out of the hospital. The "House" creator is now behind "The Good Doctor," another drama about a medical professional dealing with personal issues. Freddie Highmore is touching as an autistic surgeon wowing colleagues with his skills. There's every reason to believe he'll do the same with audiences, especially if a cranky Hugh Laurie shows up as an irritating rival.
9 p.m. KSTP, Ch. 5
Neal Justin
