Come on-a my house
In the sixth and final season of "Downton Abbey," the family is less than bemused by a charity drive that consists of strangers lining up outside their house for a peek at the lifestyles of the rich and famous. "I don't know why anybody would pay money to take a look," sniffs Mr. Carson (Jim Carter). It doesn't take an Anglophile to recognize this as a nod to the show's unexpected, and mostly deserved, popularity, which will most likely reach a fever pitch by the March finale. Julian Fellowes' ability to conjure up wicked put-downs is topped only by his juggling skills, blending trivial story lines (such as an attempt to boil the perfect broth) with the potential death of a major character. No spoilers here, except to note that Lady Mary receives a well-earned verbal slap. Edith, what took you so long? 8 p.m. Sunday, TPT, Ch. 2
My so-called life
One repercussion from the success of "Friends" is the endless stream of sitcoms attempting to further the stereotype that most twenty-somethings are stuck in dead-end jobs while living with college roommates and crashing sorority parties. The latest copycat, "Cooper Barrett's Guide to Surviving Life," does little to stray from the tired formula, with a cast that generates fewer laughs than Ross' monkey. 7:30 p.m. Sunday, KMSP, Ch. 9
All for one
Anyone looking for Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr. to rip off their Mr. Nice Guy masks will be deeply disappointed by the two-part premiere of "American Idol" 's final season. The judges, including Jennifer Lopez, don't disagree on a single contestant during auditions in Atlanta and Denver. That kind of loyalty is great if you're a Three Musketeer, but in the House That Simon Built, it's downright annoying. As for the singing? Early signs indicate some of the show's strongest voices in years. 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, KMSP, Ch. 9
Sweet Melissa
This sixth season of "Mike & Molly" will be its last — news that probably didn't cause Melissa McCarthy to lose any sleep. With her movie career in high gear, this tame/lame sitcom must seem like a distraction. Still, the "Spy" star doesn't show signs of coasting, generating the premiere's only laughs by poking gentle fun at the soothing stylings of National Public Radio. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, WCCO, Ch. 4
Neal Justin
