TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE

"Fear Itself," 9 p.m., NBC. In its first two weeks, "Fear" had standard stories. Now comes a compelling one. Two men have near-death experiences. Then, alas, each steps into the other's body. That's been done before (on "X-Files"), but not nearly as well. Colin Ferguson and Clifton Collins are superb, beautifully directed by Ronny Yu. Daniel Knauf (the "Carnivale" creator), wrote a great script but failed to find a good ending. Still, fans of horror irony will consider it a solid way to end a terrific hour.

OF NOTE

"MVP: He Shoots, She Scores" debut, 8 p.m., Soapnet. Think of this as a Canadian version of the British "Footballers Wives," only cheaper, simpler — and much better. Like the British show, this focuses on the sex and excess of taut athletes. But these hockey players also have human moments. We catch the rural life of a big-money draft pick. We see the courtship of a star and a shy daycare teacher; its charming, in the Lady Diana style.

"The Office," 7 p.m., NBC. When Jan sues the company, Michael is in the middle.

"Last Comic Standing," 7:30 p.m., NBC. In Miami, auditions are held for comics from other countries.

"Grey's Anatomy," 8 p.m., ABC. This two-parter includes some of the terrific show's key moments. Burke has been shot, the Chief's niece is missing her prom and Izzie schemes to get a heart transplant for Denny.

"CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," 8 p.m., CBS. A horror-film star has been killed.

"The Bill Engvall Show," 6 p.m., TBS. In a so-so episode, Bill realizes he doesn't have much say in his kids' lives.

"My Boys," 6:30 p.m., TBS. After romances fizzled in Italy, the friends take opposite approaches in a good episode. PJ throws a party, looking for a guy; Stephanie skips guys and finds success as an author.

"Swingtown," 9 p.m., CBS. Susan tries to bond with her conservative friend Janet by planning a party together. Then Trina, the swinger, brings some different ideas for partying.