The Middle
ABC, 8 ET/PT
One reason to cherish The Middle is that it's one of TV's only sitcoms (Mom being another) that uses the real-life economic struggles of working-class families as a driving force in its stories — even if in a comic, exaggerated way. As it does in this repeat, as the usually luxury-free Frankie and Mike go off on an “all-expense-paid” trip to Des Moines, thanks to Smiles Superstars’ founder (amusingly played by Cheryl Hines). Most people would know that “all expenses” doesn’t exactly mean “all expenses,” but the Hecks don’t — and the problem that causes, along with the joy they take in simple pleasures, is both true and very funny.
Royal Pains
USA, 10 ET/PT
After eight seasons, this USA hit airs its finale. It’s never been a great show, but it did give a long run to star Mark Feuerstein, a charming performer who previously was often relegated to being the best thing about bad, quickly cancelled shows. So congratulations to him, commiserations to those who will miss his show, and fond hopes that he'll be back on our screens soon.
Tyrant
FX, 10 ET/PT
When last we left Tyrant, Jamal had been shot and his country was in chaos. As the show returns for a third season, we find out whether he and his family’s reign survive.
