Here’s what’s up in the world of TV for Monday, December 16. All times are Eastern.
TOP PICK
Mom (CBS, 9:30 p.m.): CBS is the only network broadcasting its full slate of new, scripted programming tonight—NBC's got singing competitions, ABC is having fun with Christmas lights, and Fox is just broadcasting an episode of Almost Human before Christmas-themed cartoons. So let's look at CBS, shall we? 2 Broke Girls and Mike & Molly are celebrating their fall finales tonight, as is How I Met Your Mother, which has been having an enjoyable final season. But while the network's 10 p.m. drama Hostages has sunk in our esteem, it's 9:30 p.m. show has surprised us. Mom is a plucky little sitcom that isn't necessarily great, but is still a solid, reliable "good." Of course, there's still the rest of the season to use up all their goodwill. Tonight, Bonnie starts dating Christy's boss, Chef Rudy. Who is played by French Stewart, if you haven't been following along. Todd VanDerWerff also wants you to know that this fall finale was directed by Jon Cryer, which… is not highly relevant or interesting information, but is information nonetheless.
REGULAR COVERAGE
Almost Human (Fox, 8 p.m.): A man at the hospital correctly predicts the time of his own death, which leads Dorian and Kennex to an organ black market, where mechanical hearts are traded, sold, and collected on. Kevin McFarland is almost certain that this will lead to some contemplation about whether or not robots can feel stuff.
Hostages (CBS, 10 p.m.): Nina runs away from the hospital, because naturally, when you are sick, you should leave the hospital as quickly as possible. Ellen takes the opportunity to bargain with Duncan: He gives her something she needs, and she gives him something he needs. Sonia Saraiya fervently hopes that this is not innuendo.
How I Met Your Mother (CBS, 8 p.m.): Marshall finally shows up to Farhampton for the wedding. Donna Bowman has no idea what happens next!