TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE

"Big Day" debut, 8 p.m., ABC. All season, as situation comedies drooped and dragged, ABC has been sitting on a gem. "Big Day" is bright, zesty and simply different. The entire first season is set on the wedding day of Alice (Marla Sokoloff) and Danny (Josh Cooke). She's bright-eyed and prosperous, a doctor's daughter; he's playful and broke, a camp counselor. As the day begins, Alice and her mom (Wendie Malick) vie for control of the salad. Alice's dark-spirited sister (Miriam Shor) has just slept with a stranger who turned out to be the best man. Meanwhile, new people keep arriving and the wedding planner (Stephnie Weir) keeps wilting. In the weeks ahead, "Big Day" will keep getting funnier.

"A Charlie Brown Christmas," 7 p.m., ABC. One of the great shows in TV history returns with warmth, wit and spare animation. It's followed by Christmas vignettes.

OF NOTE

"NCIS," 7 p.m., CBS. The team must link with the FBI when mummified remains are found.

"Friday Night Lights," 7 p.m., NBC. As emotions build, there are two angry confrontations, both involving Tim Riggins. There are also milder moments; it's a joy to watch the relationship between Matt, the quiet quarterback, and Julie, the coach's daughter who said she won't date players.

"Modern Marvels: Breakfast Tech," 7 p.m., History Channel. Less than 80 years ago, this fairly interesting documentary says, most people couldn't afford a bacon-and-eggs breakfast. It took modern steps — in production, processing and refrigeration — to make that accessible. Even the toaster alone has gone through big changes.

"House," 8 p.m., Fox. Things are tightening on Dr. House. His Vicodin has been cut back, leaving him angry while dealing with an ill 6-year-old and arguing parents. Meanwhile, a relentless cop tightens his investigation.

"My Boys" debut, 8 and 8:30 p.m., TBS. PJ (Jordana Spiro) lives in a male world. She's a sports writer; she plays poker with her droll brother (Jim Gaffigan) and other guys. She also ponders the line when pals may or may not become lovers. In the style of "Sex and the City," this is a great-looking filmed comedy. It doesn't push hard for laughs, but it's usually interesting. The brilliant Gaffigan is underemployed here, but Spiro is an immensely likable star.

"Everest: Beyond the Limit," 8 p.m., Discovery Channel. After weeks of acclimating, the men split into two teams and start to climb Mount Everest. Some quickly find this may be impossible for them.

"Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," 9 p.m., NBC. This hour is stuffed with guest stars. Catherine Bell ("JAG"), Bob Saget and Chris Sarandon are possible suspects. Bernadette Peters plays the defense attorney. Also, Benson (Mariska Hargitay) is in town.