Dig Into Egyptian History With ‘Tomb’
ABC’s “Tales From the Tomb: Lost Sons of the Pharaoh” at 10 is an intriguing archaeological adventure that documents the discovery of the most significant find of the 20th century.
Hugh Downs (“20/20”) hosts the hour, which recreates Egyptologist Kent Weeks’ search for Kings Valley Tomb Number 5, also known as KV-5, believed to be the burial site of more than 50 sons of Ramses II.
It is the largest, most complex tomb in Egypt, consisting of at least 120 rooms on multiple levels. There are believed to be more unexplored chambers.
A remaining mystery is one that may never be answered.
Ramses II is believed by many to be the pharaoh who drove the Israelites out of Egypt. If so, it is possible that his first-born son, a victim of the last of the God-sent plagues described in the book of Exodus, is buried in the vast KV-5 mausoleum.
The beauty of Egypt and the dazzling engineering feats of Ramses make this a visual feast as well as a provocative journey. Armchair travelers will not be disappointed.
And let’s hear it for Downs, who shows us that he can still get out from behind the anchor desk and report from the front lines, detailing a fascinating story.
Highlights
“Billboard Music Awards,” FOX at 8: David Spade (“Just Shoot Me”) hosts the awards from Las Vegas. An impressive list of performers includes Aerosmith, God’s Property featuring Kirk Franklin, Jamiroquai, LeAnn Rimes, Spice Girls, Third Eye Blind, and Garth Brooks, who will receive a special achievement award.
It’s not the Grammys, but Billboard’s big night has turned into one of the best two hours of music of the season. VH-1 airs a pre-awards show at 4.
“Everybody Loves Raymond,” CBS at 8:30: After a disastrous Tupperware party, Debra (Patricia Heaton) decides it’s time to tell Marie (Doris Roberts) to stop interfering. She tells her off in a letter that Raymond (Ray Romano) does everything in his power to intercept.
“Cybill,” CBS at 9: Tall, droll and funny Paula Poundstone guest-stars as an eccentric former fan who helps Cybill (Cybill Shepherd) with a bank loan.
“Football,” ABC at 6: The Carolina Panthers (6-7) take on the Dallas Cowboys (6-7).
“George & Leo,” CBS at 9:30: George’s (Bob Newhart) crusade to make Leo (Judd Hirsch) quit smoking backfires when he himself takes up the habit after being off the weed for 15 years. Dick Martin (“Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In”) guest-stars as George’s daffy doctor.
Cable Calls
“On the Second Day of Christmas” (1997), LIFE at 9: Mary Stuart Masterson plays a woman who makes a living by turning her 6-year-old niece (Lauren Pratt) into a pickpocket. When they get caught on Christmas Eve, they are forced to spend the holiday with a handsome department-store security guard (Mark Ruffalo) before they’re turned over to police.
Predictably, mutual loathing turns to romance. Though it’s strictly by-the-book, this little tale has some funny and heartwarming moments. But the trio never create the sparks necessary to truly brighten the feel-good romp.
“A Judy Collins Christmas at Biltmore Estate,” A&E at 6 and 10: Collins’ 1996 concert includes some of her own distinctive songs as well as a sleighload of holiday favorites.
Talk Time
“Tonight,” NBC at 11:35: Jimmy Smits (“NYPD Blue”) and kid inventors.
“Late Show With David Letterman,” CBS at 11:35: Courteney Cox (“Friends”), college football star Peyton Manning and singer Shania Twain.