Simon Boys In Trouble One More Time
We’d gotten along fine without Rick and A.J. Simon for more than a half-dozen years when they returned in a 1995 TV-movie. Their reunion in CBS’ aptly titled “Simon & Simon: In Trouble Again,” repeated at 9, is proof that the boys retired from prime time at the right time.
It’s not that the old CBS series (1981-88) was anything other than a success. It’s so predictable, however, you may think that you’ve tuned into a rerun from the ‘80s.
Still, plenty of people will want to learn that A.J. (Jameson Parker) has become a trial lawyer in Seattle, and Rick (Gerald McRaney) is about the same, still dabbling in the detective business. There, I’ve just saved you two hours of your life. Use the time in good health.
What happens tonight is that Rick shows up in Seattle with his mom (Mary Carver) aboard a million-dollar yacht he’s supposed to be sailing north for a client. Rick doesn’t know, however, that he’s skippering a stolen boat.
Rick and A.J. get arrested, and mom gets kidnapped by the bad guys. Detective “Downtown” Brown (Tim Reid) shows up from San Diego with a warrant. And … well, I wouldn’t want to spoil the whole thing.
“Simon & Simon” deserves its place in the TV Hall of Fame. It is, however, a museum piece. It’s OK that CBS let it out for a little air. Thank goodness the network hasn’t made a habit of it.
Highlights
“Grace Under Fire,” ABC at 8: It wouldn’t have been a ratings “sweeps” month without a sitcom birthing episode. And that’s just when this repeat aired.
It’s Nadine’s (Julie White) turn. But with Wade (Casey Sander) on a stakeout, Grace (Brett Butler) is pressed into duty. It’s fitting. Nadine subbed for Grace’s unreliable husband Jimmy when her children were born.
“The World’s Most Incredible Animal Rescues,” FOX at 8: One of many “it’s-incredible” shows gracing the airways offers up dramatic rescues of animals. Among the hair-raising moments: A helicopter pulls a horse from a canyon; firemen fish a dog out of a raging river. Repeat.
“Pearl,” CBS at 8:30: In a first-run episode, Frankie (Kevin Corrigan) creates a term-paper-on-film featuring his friends.
“The Drew Carey Show,” ABC at 9: You’re in for a good time when Drew and his pals close down their Buzz Beer brewery business by throwing a free beer party.
When word spreads - Mimi’s work - all of Cleveland turns out for free drinks - including Little Richard, Joe Walsh, NFL Superstar Bernie Kosar and Cleveland Mayor Michael White. Repeat.
“Ellen,” ABC at 9:30: At a wine-tasting party hosted by a doctor Spence (Jeremy Piven) wants to impress, Ellen (Ellen DeGeneres) ends up getting all the attention by getting smashed. Repeat.
“Law & Order,” NBC at 10: A chilling repeat of the season opener revolves around a teacher’s carjacking and murder. McCoy (Sam Waterston) and his new assistant (Carey Lowell) are tested when a judge tosses out their best evidence.
Parents’ Pick
“The Rescuers Down Under” (1990), DIS at 8:15: School’s out, so go ahead and let the kids stay up for one of Disney’s most enjoyable animated adventures. Bob Newhart and Eva Gabor are the voices of Bernard and Bianca, the resourceful mice dispatched to Australia to tame a nasty poacher (George C. Scott, wonderfully cast).
Cable Calls
“City of Hope Celebrity Softball Challenge,” TNN at 11: The country network follows MTV’s lead with a summer softball gathering of some of country music’s biggest stars. Vince Gill, Billy Ray Cyrus, Bryan White, Trace Adkins and Diamond Rio are on hand. Troy Aikman of the Dallas Cowboys also makes an appearance.
Talk Time
“Tonight,” NBC at 11:35: Actress Faye Dunaway and Dennis Rodman.
“Late Show With David Letterman,” CBS at 11:35: Matt Lauer (“Today”), women’s basketball star Ruthie Bolton-Holifield and the Mighty Mighty Bosstones.
“Politically Incorrect With Bill Maher,” ABC at 12:35 a.m.: John Larroquette and authors John Gray and Naomi Wolf.
“Late Night With Conan O’Brien,” NBC at 12:35 a.m.: To be announced.