“Election Night”
Tuesday, all major networks
It feels like the current presidential election has been going on for as long as I can remember. And for good reason: The economy is in the toilet; we continue to be in two unending, expensive conflicts; the world kind of hates our guts; and we’re facing looming energy and environmental crises. So whichever sucker we pick tonight will have a lot riding on his shoulders. The past two presidential election nights have made for some seriously gripping TV, thanks to Florida and Ohio, respectively. (I didn’t say it was good TV, but it was gripping.) Let’s hope for a cleaner result this time. I just wonder who will fill the void left by the late Tim Russert and his Magic Board.
“E.R.”
Thursday 10pm, NBC
The medical drama has chugged along for a stunning 15 seasons, but this will be its last. The first few episodes continued the constant cast turnover trend, as Goran Visnjic’s Dr. Kovac and Maura Tierney’s Abby Lockhart both hung up their scrubs after a decade on the show, and Mekhi Phifer clocked out as Dr. Pratt after six. But there have been some additions—most important, the incomparably awesome Angela Bassett as County General’s new chief, Dr. Cate Banfield. Cate is what you expect of a Bassett character: smart, tough, talented, severe. But would you really have the woman any other way? As the show winds down, look for appearances by former cast members, but don’t hold your breath for a certain salt-and-peppered cinematic hunk returning to the show that made him a household name.
“Rock of Love Girls: Charm School”
Sunday 9pm, VH1
I have an addiction problem with VH1’s skanky reality series. But I don’t feel bad about enjoying “Charm School.” It’s way less offensive than the gross dating shows that begat it, and the last time around—when luscious comedian Mo’nique whipped the “Flavor of Love” castoffs into shape—it ended up being kind of heartwarming and empowering. This time, rock empress Sharon Osbourne is in the headmistress seat, and while she’s awesome at the job (her tongue lashings are savage), I don’t think she’s remotely invested in how these ladies do after the show wraps. Then again, I don’t think the women themselves care, as most of them just seem to want a paycheck. Regardless, it’s entertaining for sure, although the editing has made it obvious who’s in it for the long run. Here’s a hint: Dallas and Brandi M. sure have gotten a lot of attention…
