The play's the thing

Playwright Jon Robin Baitz's theatrical background is on full display in "The Slap," a limited series that's big on contemplation and dialogue, short on action. The centerpiece is the discipline of a child at a back-yard party and the reaction of various family members. This is not the usual route for NBC, which likes dramas with "Law" and "Fire" in their titles. But if the impressive cast, led by Peter Sarsgaard, can lure in viewers, I'll be pleasantly surprised. 7 p.m. KARE, Ch. 11

Doogie oogie oogie

Neil Patrick Harris takes a break from prepping for Oscar hosting duties and suits up for "Inside the Actors Studio," which we hope will spend plenty of time revisiting the world of Doogie Howser. It's an encore appearance for Harris, who previously stopped by with the cast of "How I Met Your Mother." 7 p.m. Bravo

Out on the street

In the genre of cheap, ridiculous game shows, "Broke A$$ Game Show" may take the paper crown as two generally not funny guys run up and down streets offering measly amounts of money for people to take part in their silly reindeer games. 10:02 p.m. MTV

Neal Justin