A fresh approach
Chef Eddie Huang has publicly complained that "Fresh Off the Boat," the new series based on his memoirs, is a watered-down version of his childhood growing up in the '90s. I don't doubt that's true, but at least there's finally a decent sitcom about an Asian-American family on the air. In fact, "Boat" is often better than decent, thanks to a clear knowledge of family tension that people of all races can relate to. The show gets a high-profile premiere this week before it moves into its much more challenging time slot of 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. 7:30 & 8:30 p.m. KSTP, Ch. 5
What a wonderful world
Conservation scientist M. Sanjayan may not be a natural tour guide, but he makes for an inquisitive, enthusiastic travel companion in "Earth — A New Wild," a beautifully shot documentary series about how humans are intertwined with every part of the planet's natural systems. 8 p.m. TPT, Ch. 2
The dating game
You would think heartbreaker John Mayer would use the opportunity as host of three consecutive episodes of "The Late, Late Show" to fill up his dance card. But the announced guests — Jim Carrey, Andy Cohen, Ed Sheeran — don't really seem to be his type. Don't be surprised by a last-minute addition of supermodels. 11:35 p.m. WCCO, Ch. 4
Neal Justin
