‘Chuck’ has competition – a new computer

Tonight’s must-see

“Chuck,” 8 p.m., NBC.

Throughout the first season, Chuck had a vital role: His brain was the sole depository of all the CIA’s secrets.

Now a new computer is almost ready to replace him. Can Chuck be normal again, even dating Sarah the spy? Or will people have more reason than ever to kill him?

This episode is done with a jaunty style, mixing humor and action. It reminds us how good “Chuck” was last year before the writers strike intervened.

Tonight’s must-see II

“Big Bang Theory,” 8 p.m., CBS.

If computers ruled the world, Leslie Winkle would already be Leonard’s mate.

In some ways, she’s his match: small, smart, socially clumsy. But she’s also cold - especially compared with Penny.

Now Penny has a new guy and Leonard tries Leslie (wonderfully played by Sara Gilbert). The result is hilarious.

Other choices include:

“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles,” 8 p.m., Fox. Hey, it’s not easy being an android. After a computer glitch, Cameron is in a halfway house, with no memory.

“Private Screenings,” 5 p.m., Turner Classic Movies. At 86, Walter Mirisch hardly seems like a Hollywood giant. He’s a modest-seeming guy who started by making such cheapies as “Bomba the Jungle Boy.” But he found ways to attract Billy Wilder, John Sturges and other top directors. Here’s a low-key chat.

“Heroes,” 6 p.m., NBC. Last week, we learned Nathan wasn’t dead after all. Now his mom wants Noah Bennet (also known as the H.R.G.) to intervene in a hostage situation. Also, Suresh’s experiments are becoming dangerous.

“In the Heat of the Night” (1967), 9 p.m., TCM. After watching the Mirisch interview, stay for this great Oscar-winner. Norman Jewison perfectly directed an amazing cast led by Rod Steiger and Sidney Poitier.

“Life” season opener, 10 p.m., NBC. Brilliantly directed by Daniel Sackheim, this hour has style and zest. The flip side: The entire story – about trunks and bodies – defies credibility.