ADVERTISEMENT

“SAMANTHA WHO?”

ABC is not known for its comedies. So I have been pleasantly surprised by how much I’ve liked “Samantha Who?” starring Christina Applegate. Applegate deserves credit for making Samantha a character you care about, a woman who has discovered that she isn’t happy with who she once was. And the supporting cast, particularly Jean Smart, who plays her mother, has also helped. Now that this show has established its tone, I’ll look forward to a second season. But first, in the season finale, Samantha celebrates her birthday while trying to make things right with her ex-boyfriend. 9:30 p.m. ABC

“THE BACHELOR”

Matt, the first British bachelor, has to make a decision tonight. Will he pick Shayne, who is not on the show to further her acting career? Or will he choose Chelsea, who isn’t always into romance? ABC has revealed that he does get engaged, so I guess taking the ladies to London goes well. Fun fact: the engagement ring is valued at $60,000. 10:02 p.m. ABC

SHE’S DOING IT AGAIN

“How I Met Your Mother”: There’s this little known actress named Britney Spears who is guest-starring tonight as a love-struck receptionist. Perhaps you’ve heard of her? She must be pretty awesome since she already has been on the show earlier in the season. 8:30 p.m. CBS

PREMIERE-PALOOZA

“American Gladiator”: Three new gladiators join the cast, including the Season 1 winners, Rocket and Jet. (Catchy names!) Hulk Hogan and Laila Ali return as hosts. 8 p.m. NBC

FINALE ALERT

“Medium” ends its season at 10 p.m. on NBC. “The Hills” wraps up the drama at 10 p.m. on MTV.