Welcome to Primetime Preview, RT’s compendium of the primetime shows that are worth your time. This evening’s slate includes a couple intriguing new shows (Masters of Sex, Witches of East End) and a bunch of returning favorites (Homeland, The Good Wife, The Simpsons, Boardwalk Empire). So grab your remote, find your favorite spot on the couch, and tune in for lots of television goodness!
Critics say Witches of East End is occasionally campy fun, but it’s an uneven piece of work. In tonight’s premiere, matriarchal witch Joanna (Julia Ormond) attempts to rescue her two daughters (Jenna Dewan-Tatum and Rachel Boston) from an ancient curse.
In a nod to the classic 1980s horror film Poltergeist, Francine experiences a “poltergasm,” which prompts Roger to seek the supernatural services of Zelda Rubinstein.
Plagued by a predictable story, lackluster writing, and uninspired acting, Betrayal is far less compelling — even as a guilty pleasure — than it ought to be. Tonight, Jack (Stuart Townsend) and Drew (Chris J. Johnson) turn on each other as a murder investigation intensifies.
The pundits say Boardwalk Empire continues to benefit from its meticulously realized period trappings, but what keeps the show watchable is its supremely talented ensemble players. Tonight, Nucky (Steve Buscemi) deals with the fallout from his nephew’s deadly prank.
In Bob’s Burgers‘s Halloween episode, the Belcher kids decide to build a fort after trick-or-treating, but run into trouble when Louise’s friend holds them all hostage there.
Wild-and-crazy relief pitcher Kenny Powers (Danny McBride) has settled down fand become a suburban family man. But is this former hell-raiser getting stir a little crazy? Tonight, Kenny looks to make a career move.
Peter discovers he has a twin growing out of his neck and welcomes him into the family as “Chip;” the only problem is, everyone seems to like Chip more than Peter.
The beat goes on for Julianna Margulies and The Good Wife, one of broadcast TV’s most reliable critical favorites. Tonight, Alicia (Julianna Margulies) and Cary (Matt Czuchry) take on the NSA in court, not realizing their firm is being watched as well.
Stephen Merchant is an intelligent performer, but Hello Ladies is largely a squirm-inducing comedy that lacks the empathy of his best work. Tonight, Wade (Nate Torrence) rents a limo to impress his estranged wife, but Stuart (Merchant) tags along to ride in style.
As the stakes get higher, Homeland remains a roller coaster ride of tension, and Claire Danes is riveting in what critics are calling one of the best written thrillers on television. Tonight, Saul (Mandy Patinkin) digs deaper into the attack on CIA headquarters.
Charming and sweet, Last Tango in Halifax is a moving comedy-drama that delights as it touches hearts of all ages, boasting marvelous performances by its leading actors, according to the critics. On tonight’s episode, Alan (Derek Jacobi) shares a dark secret with Celia (Anne Reid).
Critics say Mark Strong makes for a compelling lead, but Low Winter Sun is too serious for its own good, sagging under the weight of its bleak, brooding tone. Tonight, Frank (Strong) starts to reconsider some of his previous actions, and the department gets a big break in a major case.
The critics say Masters of Sex is seductive and nuanced, featuring smart performances, deft direction, and impeccable period decor. Tonight, the two researchers attempt to find the ideal place to continue their study after getting booted from a hospital.
While Van Pelt and Rigsby celebrate their nuptials, Jane takes the team to Napa to investigate a case, primarily so he can keep a closer eye on Sheriff McAllister.
Peter Pan offers Emma a map to Henry’s location, but it doesn’t come cheap, and the Evil Queen attempts to strike a similarly tempting deal with Snow White back in fairy tale land.
As the title indicates, Emily VanCamp (Emily Thorne) is still out for revenge. Tonight, her target is a minister who used to be employed by the nefarious conglomerate Grayson Global.
This year’s “Treehouse of Horror” episode features a nod to Dr. Seuss, a decapitated Bart, and a play on the movie Freaks, plus a lively, reference-filled opening sequence storyboarded by Guillermo del Toro.
