TONIGHT'S MUST-SEES

Country Music Association awards, 8 p.m., ABC. Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley host a packed night. All five entertainer-of-the-year nominees are expected to perform — Kenny Chesney, George Strait, Keith Urban, Sugarland and Paisley. So are the five new artist nominees — Jason Aldean, Rodney Atkins, James Otto, Kellie Pickler and Lady Antebellum. More performers? They include Underwood, plus Trace Adkins, Brooks & Dunn, The Eagles, Alan Jackson, Kid Rock, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride and Taylor Swift. Others will present, ranging from Darius Rucker to Billy Ray and Miley Cyrus.

"Monarchy: The Royal Family at Work," 8 p.m., PBS. This richly filmed, three-week film follows everyone surrounding Queen Elizabeth II. This opener has preparations for her U.S. visit. It will be enjoyed by anyone who has fretted when company's coming.

OF NOTE

"Bones," 7 p.m., Fox. Police were trying to practice a raid. Instead, they found a body.

"House," 8 p.m., Fox. Comedies have been swept aside for this "sweeps" ratings time. Instead, we get a rerun in which Dr. House is convinced his favorite soap star is sick.

"Life," 8 p.m., NBC. In a huge shopping mall, on a huge shopping day, someone has been killed and the body has disappeared. This could be a tough one.

"Law & Order," 9 p.m., NBC. Here's a complex, painful and sometimes heartwarming hour. A middle-income guy has been killed in a dangerous park. Secrets are revealed as police visit a home for mentally challenged adults.

"Estate of Panic" debut, 8 p.m., Sci Fi. This reality show has strangers hunting for money in an old house rigged with horror-film type surprises.

"Top Chef" season-opener, 8 p.m., Bravo; reruns at 9:15 p.m. This edition has a 75-minute start, with 17 chefs reaching New York City.