Fox’s ‘Champ’ lands punch to NBC
One of this year’s big stories in the TV industry is the claim of ripped-off reality-show formats.
Tonight at 9, Fox premieres “The Next Great Champ,” its boxing reality show with Oscar De La Hoya, beating exasperated NBC’s “The Contender” to the air by a few weeks.
Twelve boxing hopefuls and their loved ones move in together, start training with De La Hoya, and two of them enter the ring for the weekly four-round bout that will result in one fighter’s elimination.
The ultimate prize for the winner? A contract with De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions and a title fight within the World Boxing Organization.
Meanwhile, tonight at 10 on KSPS, “P.O.V.” offers the broadcast debut of the film “Wattstax” (1973), which is also coming out on DVD this week.
Filmmakers David Wolper and Mel Stuart were hired by Stax Records to film a giant concert the label held at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in August 1972, featuring Isaac Hayes, the Staple Singers and many more artists from back in the day.
Perhaps 100,000 people turned out for a supremely funky time.
But the movie also documents the black community of the era with man-in-the-street interviews and a talk with Richard Pryor.
A valuable and fun look back.
Highlights
“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” ABC at 8: Followed by two “According to Jim” repeats and a new “In the Jury Room.”
“Navy NCIS,” CBS at 8: A special weapon does its work on one of our guys. Repeat.
“Last Comic Standing,” NBC at 8: Who will make us laugh last?
“Trading Spouses: Meet Your New Mommy,” Fox at 8: Mrs. Donaho from Seagoville, Texas, and Mrs. Messina of St. James, N.Y., change homes and families.
“Big Brother 5,” CBS at 9: Summer’s over. Shouldn’t this reality-TV nightmare be, too?
“Father of the Pride,” NBC at 9: Larry is excited about joining the show until Seigfried and Roy brag to Matt Lauer (voiced as himself) about the magic trick they have in the works.
“One Tree Hill,” WB at 9: Lucas, Nathan and Jake go on the block in the annual “Boy Toy” charity auction. Repeat.
“Scrubs,” NBC at 9:30: J.D. and Elliott compete for chief resident.
“Amazing Race 5,” CBS at 10: On to New Zealand!
“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” NBC at 10: Tom Skerritt guests as an arrogant judge in a child-abuse case. Repeat.
Family Fare
“Gilmore Girls,” WB at 8: Big doings in this repeat.
All of Stars Hollow turns out for Liz’s wedding. Jess walks Liz down the aisle, and Luke asks Lorelai out on a date.
Meanwhile, as Yale lets out for the summer, Rory attends a drunken party and sees both Dean and Jess later on.
Cable Cast
ESPN25 celebrations, ESPN at 4: A show on “The Headlines” and one on the top 25 games of the channel’s 25 years, as the self-congratulation, er, celebration winds down.
“Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” Bravo at 10: Former financier Winston needs a new look for his new gig as a restaurateur.
“Nip/Tuck,” FX at 10: Julia needs Sean’s help after an accident.
Late Night Talk
“Late Show with David Letterman,” CBS at 11:35: Regis Philbin and Hoobastank. Write your own joke.
“Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” NBC at 11:35: Donald Trump and Nelly.
“Jimmy Kimmel Live,” ABC at 12:05 a.m.: Al Jarreau.
“Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” NBC at 12:35: Andy Richter and Neve Campbell.