TV critic's choice: July 3-9

July 2, 2011 at 6:59PM
THE MARRIAGE REF -- Susie Essman, Tracy Morgan, Regis Philbin
THE MARRIAGE REF -- Susie Essman, Tracy Morgan, Regis Philbin (Margaret Andrews — Patrick Harbron/NBC/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Sunday You have to feel for this week's couples on "The Marriage Ref" (9 p.m., KARE, Ch. 11) because they've drawn Tracy Morgan as one of the judges. Funny guy, but not the person I'd turn to for advice about my relationships. Come to think of it, I wouldn't turn to him for advice on what socks to wear.

Monday Fireworks explode in the privacy of your own home in three specials. "A Capitol Fourth" (7 p.m., KTCA, Ch. 2) features performances by Steve Martin, Josh Groban and Matthew Morrison, while Little Richard teams up with the cast of "Million Dollar Quartet," featuring Minneapolis native Jared Mason. Beyoncé and Brad Paisley shake it up during "Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular" (8 p.m., KARE, Ch. 11). Finally, "The Shield" veteran Michael Chiklis finds out what it's like to be dancing on the ceiling when he hosts Lionel Richie and the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra during "Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular" (9 p.m., WCCO, Ch. 4).

Tuesday David Feherty, one of the wittier analysts in golf, shows some game as a talk-show host in "Feherty" (8 p.m., Golf). He tries a little too hard to show off his funny side, but we're betting that he'll get the swing of it. His latest guest: Tom Watson.

Wednesday "Men of a Certain Age" (9 p.m., TNT) wraps up a terrific second season with Ray Romano's character finally taking his shot at making the senior tour. The results may surprise and move you, as this series has done consistently from the start. Who knew Mr. Comedy had such a serious side?

Thursday The Chenbot has recharged her batteries for "Big Brother 13" (8 p.m., WCCO, Ch. 4), yet another season of emotionally unstable brats "stuck" in a complex with free booze and a hot tub. Better idea: Drop contestants in a Chilean mine and see how many minutes it takes for them to cry for their mommies.

about the writer

about the writer

Neal Justin

Critic / Reporter

Neal Justin is the pop-culture critic, covering how Minnesotans spend their entertainment time. He also reviews stand-up comedy. Justin previously served as TV and music critic for the paper. He is the co-founder of JCamp, a non-profit program for high-school journalists, and works on many fronts to further diversity in newsrooms.

See Moreicon