Tonight’s TV Spotlight…Thursday, February 16, 2012

One week without PARKS AND RECREATION is one week too many, so I’m glad it’s returning tonight – with Louis C.K.! I’m definitely being spoiled this Thursday.

Want to know what else to watch? Read on to see what other shows are new tonight!

The Big Bang Theory | 8pm on CBS
“The Rothman Disintegration”
When an office at the University opens up, Sheldon must compete for it with his archenemy, Kripke. Meanwhile, a gift from Amy makes Penny uncomfortable.

30 Rock | 8pm on NBC
“The Tuxedo Begins”
Fed up with New York City after being mugged, Jack sets out to protect the safety of the city’s elite by announcing his run for mayor. Meanwhile, Liz revels in sacrificing the good of the city to look out for her own interests, and Jenna and Paul are thrilled by the perversion of acting like a normal couple.

American Idol | 8pm on Fox
“Hollywood Round, Part 4”
Another performance round finds judges Randy, Jennifer and Steven narrowing down the contestants even further.

Winter Wipeout | 8pm on ABC
“That Snow Way to Fall Down”
In another winter edition of “Wipeout,” contestants will battle the Arctic Circle, featuring Garry the Eskimo and a germaphobic Polar Bear. Among those fighting for the $50,000 prize are “Katie GaGa,” “Mr Gum,” “The Dark Artist” and a “Treasure Hunter.” All bets are off for the most entertaining “Cold Hearted Snake” to date, where only three will advance to the exciting conclusion in the Winter Wipeout Zone.

The Vampire Diaries | 8pm on The CW
“All My Children”
After starting her day with a startling discovery of Damon’s latest indiscretion, Elena is frustrated to find that none of her friends agree with her on how they should react to the Original family’s internal power struggle. Once again caught up in the destiny of the Bennett witches, Bonnie and Abby find themselves playing a part in a ritual to appease the spirits of nature. When Elijah gives Damon and Stefan a dangerous ultimatum that puts Elena in danger, they turn to Alaric Meredith for help with a plan that leads them to a terrible choice.

Rob | 8:30pm on CBS
“The Baby Bug”
Rob doesn’t want kids, so Maggie and her parents conspire to change his mind with the help of a cute baby. Meanwhile, the family helps Fernando shoot a commercial for his car wash franchise.

Parks and Recreation | 8:30pm on NBC
“Dave Returns”
While trying to get an endorsement from the Chief of Police, Leslie and Ben awkwardly run into Leslie’s old flame, Dave (guest star Louis C.K.). Meanwhile, Andy and the rest of the office work on a theme song for Leslie’s campaign.

So much more…

Person of Interest | 9pm on CBS
“Blue Code”
Reese discovers there’s more to the story after he infiltrates a smuggling ring to get close to his latest POI.

The Office | 9pm on NBC
“Tallahassee”
After Dwight and his team arrive in Tallahassee, Dwight competes with his Dunder Mifflin coworkers to impress Sabre special projects president, Nellie Bertram (guest star Catherine Tate). Back in Scranton, Andy avoids being manager when several people in the office demand raises.
Grey’s Anatomy | 9pm on ABC
“Have You Seen Me Lately?”
In a final attempt to save Erica’s life, Amelia arrives at Seattle Grace to beg Derek for help with the gliosarcoma case; Cristina and Owen engage in heated arguments during marriage counseling; Alex realizes that in order to be a good doctor, he’ll need to improve his people skills; and Meredith is given a chance to shine when a man enters the ER after getting his hand stuck in meat grinder. Meanwhile, the residents continue to study for their upcoming oral boards.

The Secret Circle | 9pm on The CW
“Return”
Cassie is stunned when a notoriously evil figure from her past shows up on her doorstep (guest star Joe Lando, “Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman”). However, her surprise quickly turns to suspicion when he asks her to return the medallion she found in the wreckage of the fire that killed their parents. Cassie storms off but is captured by Eben and his band of witch hunters. Jake offers to trade himself for Cassie’s freedom, and when Adam realizes they’re in trouble, he calls the Circle. Meanwhile, Faye and Diana are concerned when Melissa starts spending more time with Callum.

Up All Night | 9:30pm on NBC
“Travel Day”
It’s Reagan and Chris versus the airport when they travel with baby Amy for the first time. Ava agrees to be the minister for the wedding of her former band mate, Amanda (guest star Alanis Morissette), and past tensions come back to haunt them. Meanwhile, Kevin (guest star Jason Lee) deals with Ava’s feelings on marriage.

The Mentalist | 10pm on CBS
“War of the Roses”
When a charity worker is killed, Jane has Erica Flynn, a murderer he helped imprison, furloughed in exchange for information she claims to have about the case. Meanwhile, Rigsby and Sarah try to adjust to impending parenthood.

Private Practice | 10pm on ABC
“You Break My Heart”
Cooper and Charlotte take Erica to Seattle Grace to meet with Derek, Lexie and Amelia regarding a very risky surgery; Scott tells Violet that he would like to take their relationship to the next level; and Addison finds herself caught in the middle of Sam and Jake’s fight about a patient. Meanwhile, Sheldon warns Sam to be cautious as he deals with the return of his sister, Corinne.

Archer | 10pm on FX
“Lo Scandalo”
Malory turns to Archer and Lana for help when she finds herself in a compromising situation with the Italian prime minister.

Also playing…

• Project Runway: All Stars | “Puttin’ on the Glitz” | 9pm on Lifetime
• NY Ink | “Living the Dream” | 9pm on TLC
• Jersey Shore | “Love at the Jersey Shore” | 10pm on MTV
• Unsupervised | “Stupid Idiots” | 10:30pm on FX

Leave a comment and let me know what you will be watching!