TV Best Bets

Thursday, Nov. 22: Happy Thanksgiving!

Peter Kramer/NBC

ALSO SEE: NFL Regular Season Schedule 2018

All Times Eastern.

Thursday, Nov. 22

A roundup of some of the best Thanksgiving Day specials, sports and more:

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
NBC, 9am Live

While the turkey’s roasting, get your float on with coverage of the 92nd annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

“Chrisley Knows Best” Thanksgiving Marathon
USA Network, beginning at 6am

Enjoy 14 hours of episodes from the hit reality series.

Thanksgiving With “The Godfather”
AMC, beginning at 9am

Leave the gun, take the cannoli and enjoy this Turkey Day feast of The Godfather Parts I-III.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
NBC, 9am Live

While the turkey’s roasting, get your float on with coverage of the 92nd annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

The National Dog Show Presented by Purina
NBC, 12pm

It’s a parade of pooches! Seinfeld’s John O’Hurley hosts the annual purebred canine competition, while Olympic skaters Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir go backstage to ooh and ahh over the adorable dogs.

NFL Football
CBS, FOX & NBC, beginning at 12:30pm Live

Give thanks for the bountiful gift of football with the Chicago Bears at the Detroit Lions on CBS, followed by the Washington Redskins at the Dallas Cowboys on FOX and, in primetime, the Atlanta Falcons at the New Orleans Saints on NBC.

Murphy Brown: “Thanksgiving and Taking”
CBS, 9:30pm

Murphy’s (Candice Bergen) reluctant Thanksgiving dinner guests all brace for the worst in the new episode “Thanksgiving and Taking.”

Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Return
Netflix
Season Premiere!
In the second season of the cult favorite’s revival (appropriately launching on Turkey Day), a new vault of terrible B-movies is waiting to be opened and riffed on by Jonah and the bots.

The Christmas Chronicles
Netflix
Original Film!
Kurt Russell plays what is described as a “rugged, charismatic and hilarious Santa Claus” in this holiday adventure about a sister and brother whose Christmas plan to capture Jolly Old St. Nick on camera turns into an unexpected journey that most kids could only dream about.

“Pee-wee’s Playhouse” Marathon
IFC, beginning at 6am

Enjoy a day of Pee-wee Herman’s cult-classic Saturday morning kids show from the late 1980s.

20/20: “Mary Poppins Returns: Behind the Magic”
ABC, 8pm

This special edition of 20/20 takes viewers behind the scenes of Mary Poppins Returns as the iconic character returns to the big screen. The special features exclusive interviews with cast and crew.

MasterChef Junior: Celebrity Showdown
FOX, 8pm
In this charity cookoff, Modern Family’s Eric Stonestreet and Empire’s Terrence Howard pair with past Junior foodies for a mystery challenge, while How I Met Your Mother’s Alyson Hannigan and Rel’s Lil Rel Howery put their own kids to work in the kitchen. So … just like your house!

Christmas at the Palace
Hallmark Channel, 8pm
Original Film!

Merritt Patterson stars as a former professional ice skater who travels to a foreign kingdom to help a princess prepare for a skating performance and falls into a forbidden romance with the handsome king.

The Christmas Contract
Lifetime, 8pm
Original Film!

It’s a mini One Tree Hill reunion featuring Hilarie Burton, Robert Buckley, Danneel Ackles and Antwon Tanner! When Jolie (Burton) learns that her hometown flame (Hunter Burke) is bringing his new girlfriend to the town’s holiday festivities, her best friend Naomi (Ackles) recruits her flaky brother, Jack (Buckley), to make Jolie’s trip home less painful. Jolie and Jack sign a Christmas contract: He will join her on the trip, and in return, she will help him with his new website. Jordan Ladd, Cheryl Ladd, Bruce Boxleitner, Jason London, Teri Wyble and Ritchie Montgomery also star, with a special musical appearance by Tyler Hilton.

Meghan’s New Life: The Real Princess Diaries
ABC, 9pm

Take a look at Meghan Markle’s royal beginnings as the Duchess of Sussex, including how she is adjusting to her new life, new role and new family, in this ABC News special.

’Tis the Season: A “One Tree Hill” Cast Reunion
Lifetime, 10pm

The Tree Hill Ravens are back together to celebrate the Christmas season on Lifetime! In this one-hour reunion, Hilarie Burton, Tyler Hilton, Danneel Ackles, Antwon Tanner and Stephen Colletti reunite for a special evening that includes visits from a few surprise guests.

Friday, Nov. 23

The Romanoffs: “The One That Holds Everything”
Amazon
Season Finale!

Matthew Weiner’s 8-part anthology draws to a close tonight. In a story that circles the globe, a man tries to escape a family curse.

College Football
FOX, FS1, CBS & ESPN, beginning at 12pm Live

A full Friday of college football features Nebraska at Iowa (FOX), Texas at Kansas (FS1), Arkansas at Missouri (CBS), Oregon at Oregon State (FS1), Oklahoma at West Virginia (ESPN) and Washington at Washington State (FOX).

NHL Hockey: N.Y Rangers at Philadelphia
NBC, 1pm Live
The NHL’s annual Thanksgiving Showdown Black Friday matchup has the Philadelphia Flyers and N.Y. Rangers duking it out at Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Center.

Frosty the Snowman
CBS, 8pm

The classic animated musical special, narrated by Jimmy Durante, returns. Jackie Vernon provides the voice of the “jolly, happy soul” whose old silk hat full of magic brings him to life. The special is followed by the 1992 sequel, Frosty Returns.

Pride, Prejudice and Mistletoe
Hallmark Channel, 8pm
Original Film!

The path to success for Darcy (Lacey Chabert) intersects with her old hometown rival (Brendan Penny) when they are forced to plan a charity event together. Based on the book of the same title by Melissa de la Cruz.

Poinsettias for Christmas
Lifetime, 8pm
Original Film!

Days before their town’s annual holiday parade where tens of thousands of poinsettia plants will be the star attraction, Ellie (Bethany Joy Lenz) gets a worried call from her father (John Schneider), the owner of the local poinsettia farm. The plants haven’t turned red, so Ellie enlists the help of a cute, local botanist (Marcus Rosner) to uncover a solution.

Great Performances: “Harold Prince: The Director’s Life”
PBS, 9pm

Celebrate the extraordinary career of producer and director Harold Prince, winner of a record 21 Tony Awards. His six decades in the theater form a bridge from the golden age of Broadway’s mid-century to the contemporary theater of today.

Z Nation: “Heartland”
Syfy, 9pm

The group arrives in the farming outpost that produces flour for bizkits and finds it overrun by zombies.

Every Other Holiday
Lifetime, 10pm
Original Film!

Recently separated parents Tracie (Schuyler Fisk) and Rick (David Clayton Rogers) alternate celebrating holidays with their young daughters. But this Christmas, the girls have only one thing on their wish lists — to spend Christmas with both Mom and Dad at Tracie’s family farmhouse. The temporary reunion will be no easy feat, but a spark of their lost romance could help their daughters’ greatest wish come true.

Van Helsing: “Crooked Steps”
Syfy, 10pm

On a distant island, Vanessa (Kelly Overton) and Scarlett (Missy Peregrym) battle the Third Elder, which leads Vanessa to make a choice about her path forward — one that Scarlett does not agree with.

Saturday, Nov. 24

“NCIS” Season 15 Marathon
USA Network, beginning at 11am

Binge-watch nine hours of the long-running drama, one of the top shows on television.

All in the Family Movie Marathon
Syfy, beginning at 3pm

No, it’s not a marathon of the classic sitcom. This themed programming event allows you to take a break from your own family on Thanksgiving weekend to spend time with favorite movie families in films like The Addams Family and the Syfy premiere of Marvel’s Ant-Man. The marathon kicks off with a showing of The Incredible Hulk in the late Stan Lee’s memory. Films air tonight, then pick up again beginning Sunday afternoon.

“The Walking Dead” Midseason Finale Marathon
AMC, beginning at 6:45pm

Before The Walking Dead’s midseason finale, catch up on all of the episodes from Season 8 and the first half of Season 9 when they air back-to-back.

Robbie the Reindeer
CBS, 8pm

CBS airs two Robbie the Reindeer animated holiday specials tonight, beginning with “Hooves of Fire,” in which Robbie (voice of Ben Stiller) competes against Blitzen (voice of Hugh Grant) in the Reindeer Races for a position on Santa’s sleigh team. Then in “Legend of the Lost Tribe,” Robbie must stop Blitzen from creating a Reindeer World theme park.

Christmas Everlasting
Hallmark Channel, 8pm
Original Film!

Tatyana Ali stars in this Hallmark Hall of Fame movie as successful New York attorney Lucy Toomey. When she learns that her older sister with special needs has unexpectedly passed away, Lucy returns to Wisconsin to grieve and settle her sister’s affairs, and discovers an unusual stipulation in her sister’s will. Dondre Whitfield, Patti LaBelle and Dennis Haysbert also star.

Every Day Is Christmas
Lifetime, 8pm
Original Film!

Toni Braxton stars in this tale inspired by Dickens’ A Christmas Carol as Alexis, a workaholic money manager who bids a shrewd “humbug” to affairs of the heart. But when Alexis’ past, present and future collide, forcing her to risk her heart, she comes to embrace the spirit of Christmas. Gloria Reuben, Towanda Braxton and Michael Jai White also star.

A Christmas Story
TNT, 8pm

It’s never too early for this 1983 holiday classic starring Melinda Dillon, Peter Billingsley and Darren McGavin.

The Story of Santa Claus
CBS, 9pm

This animated musical holiday special features the voices of Ed Asner, Betty White and Tim Curry, and revolves around a gentle toymaker whose only wish is to deliver a toy to every child on Christmas.

Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane
Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, 9pm
Sifting through her late mother’s belongings sends Emma (Alicia Witt) on a moving journey. Costars Colin Ferguson.

Christmas Harmony
Lifetime, 10pm
Original Film!

Soft-spoken Harmony (Kelley Jakle) is used to living in the shadow of her pop star boyfriend, but when he breaks up with her right before the holiday season, she returns to her hometown to discover the music that her big-city life has been missing. Also stars Chandra Wilson, Adam Mayfield and Sally Struthers.

Sunday, Nov. 25

Dancing With the Stars: Juniors: “Time Machine”
ABC, 8pm

The five remaining celebrity kids will travel to the past as well as the future and perform a dance from their chosen era.

The Simpsons: “Krusty The Clown”
FOX, 8pm
Guest Star Alert!

The voices of Billy Eichner and Peter Serafinowicz can be heard when Krusty hides out at a real circus, and finds happiness there. The big-footed funnyman was on the run after almost killing Homer, who had found his calling as a TV recapper but had given Krusty a harsh grade, fueling his ire.

A Shoe Addict’s Christmas
Hallmark Channel, 8pm
Original Film!

Candace Cameron Bure stars as a woman who is accidentally locked in a department store overnight. When she meets her quirky guardian angel (Jean Smart) in the store’s shoe department, she is given love and life advice and revisits Christmases past, present and future. Luke Macfarlane also stars.

Jingle Belle
Lifetime, 8pm
Original Film!

Isabelle (Tatyana Ali) and her high school sweetheart Mike (Cornelius Smith Jr.) had a history of rocking their small town’s annual Christmas Eve Pageant with a holiday duet. But after graduation, Isabelle moved to New York to study at Juilliard, and Mike was left behind. Years later, Isabelle returns to help with the pageant, and when she learns that Mike is directing it, the stage is set for a showstopping reunion duet. Loretta Devine, Keshia Knight Pulliam and Tempestt Bledsoe also star.

The Flood
National Geographic, 8pm

Angela Bassett narrates this gorgeous film about Botswana’s Okavango wilderness, rejuvenated annually by a flood that originates from rainfall in Angola’s mountains. The water creates an ecosystem that attracts elephants, hippos, lions and more.

Outlander: “Common Ground”
Starz, 8pm

Having been led by providence to Fraser’s Ridge, Jamie (Sam Heughan), Claire (Caitriona Balfe) and young Ian (John Bell) begin to build a home in the Blue Ridge Mountains. But their efforts are stymied by unwelcoming neighbors and a bloodthirsty bear that ravages their settlement. In the 20th century, Roger tries to reconnect with Brianna by searching for proof that her parents found each other in the past.

God Friended Me: “King’s Gambit”
CBS, 8:30pm

In the new episode “King’s Gambit,” Miles (Brandon Micheal Hall) is sent a friend suggestion for a chess star who vanished after losing a huge match to his rival 10 years ago.

The Walking Dead: “Evolution”
AMC, 9pm
Midseason Finale!

A small rescue mission braves a dangerous herd in their hunt for a missing comrade, only to discover a surprising threat that could doom them all.

The Real Housewives of Orange County: “Reunion Part 1”
Bravo, 9pm

In part 1 of 3, the reunion kicks off with the housewives gathering on the couch to rehash the past year. Meghan clashes with Vicki over her stepmom comments. Tamra reveals the heartbreaking family drama she has been keeping a secret. Plus, a housewife from the past speaks her mind about Tamra’s religious transformation.

Charmed: “Out of Scythe”
The CW, 9pm

After some unusual seismic activity, Harry (Rupert Evans) informs the sisters that Hilltowne is a portal to hell. With that said, the sisters must band together to fight off a shadowy demon that is trying to obtain a collection of powerful magical artifacts.

The Truth About Christmas
Freeform, 9pm
Original Film!

Kali Hawk (New Girl) stars as Jillian, a successful political consultant with a knack for putting a spin on anything. On the way to meet the family of her boyfriend (Damon Dayoub, Freeform’s Stitchers), a confrontation with a toy store Santa results in Jillian only being able to tell the truth.

NCIS: Los Angeles: “A Diamond in the Rough”
CBS, 9:30pm

The NCIS team investigates the armed robbery of a Navy captain (guest star Christopher Goodman) in possession of highly classified documents in the new episode “A Diamond in the Rough.”

Dirty John
Bravo, 10pm
New Series!

Based on the articles and breakout true-crime podcast from Los Angeles Times reporter Christopher Goffard, Bravo’s scripted anthology series tells the true story of how a romance between Debra Newell (Connie Britton) and the charismatic John Meehan (Eric Bana) spiraled into secrets, denial, manipulation and, ultimately, a fight for survival for an entire family. The series also stars Jean Smart, Julia Garner (Ozark’s Ruth Langmore) and Juno Temple.

Christmas Perfection
Lifetime, 10pm
Original Film!

As a kid, Darcy (Caitlin Thompson) had no control over her family’s holidays and grew up to be a Christmas control freak. But when she’s magically transported to the ideal Christmas village, she learns that “perfection” isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

Madam Secretary: “The Courage to Continue”
CBS, 10:30pm

In the new episode “The Courage to Continue,” Elizabeth (Téa Leoni) tries to solve the problem of political turmoil in Haiti without resorting to military action.

Monday, Nov. 26

Cyber Monday Movie Marathon
TNT, beginning at 2pm

For those of you who don’t have to return to work after that glorious holiday weekend, TNT is serving up a collection of films to celebrate the online shopping day. Films include The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies, Man of Steel and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.

College Basketball: ACC/Big Ten Challenge
ESPN2, beginning at 7pm Live

The annual clash between the ACC and Big Ten tips off tonight on ESPN2 with Nebraska at Clemson and Minnesota at Boston College. ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPNU combine to televise the 14-game tournament through Wednesday.

The Great Christmas Light Fight
ABC, 8pm
Season Premiere!

Season 6 showcases the wildest and most spectacular Christmas displays in America. In each one-hour episode, four families from all around the country decorate their homes to the extreme in the hopes of winning the coveted Light Fight trophy and a $50,000 prize. Two episodes air back-to-back tonight.

The Voice: “Live Top 11 Performances”
NBC, 8pm Live

The top 11 artists perform live in front of coaches Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton for America’s vote. They sing songs selected by fans who have submitted via Xfinity’s Suggest-A-Song feature in the official The Voice app.

Arrow: “The Slabside Redemption”
The CW, 8pm

Oliver (Stephen Amell) makes a choice that will affect his entire life, as well as the lives of everyone he cares about.

Love & Hip Hop
VH1, 8pm
Season Premiere!

After a four-year hiatus, fan favorites Joe Budden and Cyn Santana return to the show alongside several newcomers and series vets who are climbing their way to the top in the city that never sleeps.

NFL Football: Tennessee at Houston
ESPN, 8:15pm Live

NRG Stadium in Houston hosts this Week 12 Monday Night Football matchup between AFC South foes as the Tennessee Titans visit the Texans.

9-1-1: “Merry Ex-Mas”
FOX, 9pm

It seems like ghosts of relationships past haunt the first responders as they face personal and professional challenges in this holiday-themed episode.

MARS: “Darkness Falls”
National Geographic, 9pm

When a solar flare strikes Mars and knocks out communications between and within colonies, the Olympus Town team races against the clock to locate exobiologist/geologist Marta Kamen (Anamaria Marinca), who has become stranded. In the present day, a real-life scientist and his team on Earth brave harsh and dangerous conditions in the pursuit of data that will help predict the effects of glacial melt on global sea levels.

The Good Doctor: “Empathy”
ABC, 10pm

Dr. Melendez (Nicholas Gonzalez), Dr. Reznick (Fiona Gubelmann) and Dr. Brown (Antonia Thomas) grapple with a patient’s wish to perform an operation that would keep him from acting on his pedophilic urges, and Dr. Murphy (Freddie Highmore) learns a lesson in empathy.

The Truth About Killer Robots
HBO, 10pm

This documentary explores the ethics of automation, charts incidents in which robots caused the deaths of humans and asks the question: When a robot kills a human, who takes the blame?

Manifest: “Dead Reckoning”
NBC, 10pm

When Ben (Josh Dallas) and Michaela (Melissa Roxburgh) put everything on the line to save the other missing passengers, the mission goes horribly awry, and not everyone makes it out alive. The devastating result pushes Ben and Grace (Athena Karkanis) to a traumatic brink, while pulling Michaela and Jared (J.R. Ramirez) dangerously close together.

Tuesday, Nov. 27

College Basketball: ACC/Big Ten Challenge
ESPN, ESPN2 & ESPNU, beginning at 7pm Live

The ACC/Big Ten Challenge continues tonight with Virginia Tech at Penn State (ESPN2), Illinois at Notre Dame (ESPNU), Michigan State at Louisville (ESPN), NC State at Wisconsin (ESPN2), Pittsburgh at Iowa (ESPNU) and Indiana at Duke (ESPN).

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
CBS, 8pm

The longest-running holiday special in television history returns as Rudolph and his friends — Hermey the elf, Yukon Cornelius and others — save Christmas in this classic Rankin/Bass special featuring the voice of legendary performer Burl Ives.

The Flash: “O Come, All Ye Faithful”
The CW, 8pm

While Nora (Jessica Parker Kennedy) grapples with unresolved anger over her father’s disappearance in the future, Barry (Grant Gustin) and Team Flash must stop a powerful new meta, Weather Witch (guest star Reina Hardesty), from killing her own father, Weather Wizard (guest star Liam McIntyre).

The Voice: “Live Top 11 Eliminations”
NBC, 8pm Live

Nine of the artists who performed last night will be revealed as safe by America’s votes. The bottom two artists will then compete for the Instant Save, and one will be eliminated. Jennifer and Blake will perform with their teams, while award-winning country music star Kelsea Ballerini — The Voice’s fifth coach from The Comeback Stage — also performs.

NHL Hockey: Vegas at Chicago
NBCSN, 8pm Live

Marc-Andre Fleury and the defending Western Conference champion Vegas Golden Knights take on Jonathan Toews and the Blackhawks at Chicago’s United Center.

The Kids Are Alright: “Behind the Counter”
ABC, 8:30pm

Mike (Michael Cudlitz) comes to the conclusion that Eddie (Caleb Foote) is being sexually active and takes it upon himself to give him enough advice to work things out. Later, Peggy (Mary McCormack) disagrees with how Mike handled the situation and they argue over how much they should interfere in their children’s lives.

This Is Us: “The Beginning Is the End Is the Beginning”
NBC, 9pm

Kevin (Justin Hartley) arrives at the ville in which his father served. Kate (Chrissy Metz) pursues a new opportunity. Randall (Sterling K. Brown) debates Councilman Solomon Brown. In the past, Jack (Milo Ventimiglia) struggles to get through to his brother.

black-ish: “Stand Up, Fall Down”
ABC, 9pm

Junior (Marcus Scribner) hasn’t been doing much at home during his gap year, so Dre (Anthony Anderson) decides to put him to work as an intern at Stevens & Lido. Bow (Tracee Ellis Ross) lets Ruby (Jenifer Lewis) watch Devante (Berlin Gross) after the nanny quits, and Ruby has a hard time following Bow’s rules.

House Hunters: Home for the Holidays
HGTV, 9pm
New Series!
In a unique twist on hit series House Hunters, this new show features heartwarming stories of families searching for a new place to celebrate a most wonderful time of the year.

Splitting Up Together: “Glowing Pains”
ABC, 9:30pm

Lena (Jenna Fischer) tries to support Maya (Diane Farr) in any way she can with her pregnancy, only to get accused of being too controlling and taking over. Meanwhile, after Martin (Oliver Hudson) reads Mae’s (Olivia Keville) diary, he suspects that she is romantically involved with her teacher and panics.

The Devil Next Door
A&E, 10pm
New Series!

This new six-part original docuseries provides a voice to the former members of the deeply secretive North Carolina-based Word of Faith Fellowship Church as they open up about the shocking abuse they reportedly endured at the hands of the church.

The Rookie: “The Hawke”
ABC, 10pm

Nolan (Nathan Fillion) and the team must help capture a cop and his former mentor from the academy after he becomes a fugitive following an assault. Meanwhile, Officer Bradford (Eric Winter) needs Officer Chen (Melissa O’Neil) to learn to predict the moves of criminals in order to capture them.

New Amsterdam: “As Long as It Takes”
NBC, 10pm

Max (Ryan Eggold) convinces Dr. Sharpe (Freema Agyeman) to take a risk on his course of treatment, and Bloom (Janet Montgomery) grapples with a difficult conversation. Meanwhile, Dr. Kapoor (Anupam Kher) considers helping his son in a big way after some advice from a friend.

Real Country: “Living Country”
USA Network, 10pm

Shania Twain, Jake Owen and Travis Tritt welcome special guest Devin Dawson.

Wednesday, Nov. 28

NHL Hockey
NBCSN, beginning at 7pm Live

An NHL Wednesday Night Hockey twin bill has the St. Louis Blues at the Detroit Red Wings, followed by the Pittsburgh Penguins at the Colorado Avalanche.

College Basketball: ACC/Big Ten Challenge
ESPN, ESPN2 & ESPNU, beginning at 7:15pm Live

The final day of the ACC/Big Ten Challenge has Virginia at Maryland (ESPN or ESPN2), Syracuse at Ohio State (ESPN or ESPN2), Rutgers at Miami (ESPNU), North Carolina at Michigan (ESPN), Purdue at Florida State (ESPN2) and Georgia Tech at Northwestern (ESPNU).

The Goldbergs: “The Living Room: A 100% True Story”
ABC, 8pm

Barry (Troy Gentile) realizes that as a future doctor, he should be more concerned about Murray’s (Jeff Garlin) health, so he enlists others to help get his father in shape. Beverly (Wendi McLendon-Covey) is horrified to learn that Erica (Hayley Orrantia) and Adam (Sean Giambrone) don’t want any of the priceless heirlooms in her fancy, never-really-used living room.

Riverdale: “Chapter Forty-One: Manhunter”
The CW, 8pm

After confronting the parents who were part of “The Midnight Club” 25 years ago, Betty (Lili Reinhart) follows some strong leads in hopes of finding out who the true Gargoyle King is. Veronica’s (Camila Mendes) attempt to prove Archie’s (KJ Apa) innocence lands her in hot water. Finally, Archie turns to Kevin (Casey Cott) for help making things right.

Empire: “Master of What Is Mine Own”
FOX, 8pm

The cost of running Lyon Family Management starts to put pressure on Cookie (Taraji P. Henson) and Lucious’ (Terrence Howard) relationship. When Kingsley (A.Z. Kelsey) pulls a power move of his own that has major financial repercussions for Lucious, Cookie thinks back to their early struggles.

86th Annual Christmas in Rockefeller Center
NBC, 8pm Live

NBC kicks off the holidays with the lighting of the iconic tree in the heart of New York City with the 86th annual Christmas in Rockefeller Center. The evening with include festive musical performances and will be hosted by NBC’s Today anchors.

Vikings
History, 8pm
New Episodes!

The second half of Season 5 continues with Ivar the Boneless (Alex Høgh Andersen) as ruler of Kattegat. He has sworn revenge on those who have betrayed him, including Lagertha (Katheryn Winnick), who has fled with Bjorn (Alexander Ludwig) and Bishop Heahmund (Jonathan Rhys Meyers) at her side. Kattegat must also contend with the arrival of the notorious Duke Rollo (Clive Standen), whose motives are still unclear.

Nature: “Snow Bears”
PBS, 8pm

Travel to the Arctic to follow the life-changing journey of two newborn polar bear cubs as they leave their den for the first time. Bravely led by their mother, the cubs must make the perilous voyage to the sea to feed. Actress Kate Winslet narrates.

Modern Family: “Kids These Days”
ABC, 9pm

Haley (Sarah Hyland) needs a little motherly advice from Claire (Julie Bowen) as she considers her future. Meanwhile, Jay (Ed O’Neill) and Cam’s (Eric Stonestreet) less than politically correct coaching style earns them a class on sensitivity from Manny (Rico Rodriguez) and Phil (Ty Burrell). The episode guest-stars Mira Sorvino, Rob Riggle and Andrew Daly.

All American: “The Choice Is Yours”
The CW, 9pm

The return of Layla’s (Greta Onieogou) music mogul father gives Spencer (Daniel Ezra) the perfect opportunity to give back to Crenshaw and reunite with an increasingly distant Coop (Bre-Z). But Coop’s deepening affiliation with Shawn’s (Jay Reeves) gang threatens Spencer’s good intentions.

Single Parents: “The Beast”
ABC, 9:30pm

Will (Taran Killam) encourages Angie (Leighton Meester) to rediscover her passion for heavy metal music by taking a guitar class, and in turn, Angie insists that Will get back in the field covering weather by driving both of them into a storm. Meanwhile, Douglas (Brad Garrett) pursues his crush on Big Red (guest star Rebecca Creskoff) with the help of Miggy (Jake Choi).

A Legendary Christmas With John and Chrissy
NBC, 10pm

John Legend and Chrissy Teigen celebrate the season alongside the couple’s family and talented celebrity friends. Legend performs a selection of songs from his 2018 holiday album, A Legendary Christmas. The special will re-air on Wednesday, Dec. 12.

Real Country: “American Spirit”
USA Network, 10pm

Shania Twain, Jake Owen and Travis Tritt welcome special guest Trace Adkins.

Thursday, Nov. 29

Olaf’s Frozen Adventure
ABC, 8pm

It’s the first holiday season since the gates reopened and Anna (voice of Kristen Bell) and Elsa (voice of Idina Menzel) host a celebration for all of Arendelle. When the townspeople unexpectedly leave early, the sisters realize they have no family traditions of their own.

LEGO Jurassic World: The Secret Exhibit
NBC, 8pm

In this animated special, Simon Masrani has an idea for a new attraction that is guaranteed to keep Jurassic World at the forefront of theme-park entertainment.

NBA Basketball
TNT, beginning at 8pm Live

Kevin Durant and the Golden State Warriors head to Toronto for a showdown with Kawhi Leonard and the Raptors. Following that game, Tobias Harris and the L.A. Clippers are in Sacramento for a collision with Zach Randolph and the Kings.

NFL Football: New Orleans at Dallas
FOX & NFL Network, 8:20pm Live

Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints head to AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, for a Week 13 showdown with Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday Night Football.

Toy Story That Time Forgot
ABC, 8:30pm

During a post-Christmas play date, the Toy Story gang find themselves in uncharted territory when the coolest set of action figures ever turn out to be dangerously delusional.

The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration
ABC, 9pm

Join Jordan Fisher (Dancing With the Stars: Juniors) and Sarah Hyland (Modern Family) as they host the magical two-hour event from the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. This star-studded primetime celebration showcases incredible musical performances from Gwen Stefani, Meghan Trainor, Brett Eldridge and more.

Mom: “Pork Loin and a Beat-Up Monte Carlo”
CBS, 9pm

Christy (Anna Faris) competes with her classmates for a prestigious internship in the new episode “Pork Loin and a Beat-Up Monte Carlo.”

Will & Grace: “So Long, Division”
NBC, 9pm
Guest Star Alert!

Will (Eric McCormack) convinces Grace (Debra Messing) that her boyfriend, Noah (guest star David Schwimmer), isn’t in the wrong by refusing to let her meet his daughter, Katie. When Grace goes to apologize to Noah, she unintentionally meets Katie. Meanwhile, Will’s mom, Marilyn (guest star Blythe Danner), visits after the death of her beloved dog, and becomes upset when she doesn’t get the emotional support she expects from her son. Meanwhile, Jack (Sean Hayes) gets into an argument with his rec center boss, Theo (guest star Derek Gaines).

Legacies: “Malivore”
The CW, 9pm

Tensions rise among the students after Alaric (Matthew Davis) decides to give the students a bigger voice by forming an honor council. Determined to find out more about Landon’s (Aria Shahghasemi) past, Hope (Danielle Rose Russell) does a series of magical tests on him.

Murphy Brown: “Beat the Press”
CBS, 9:30pm

Murphy (Candice Bergen) tries to remain a fearless journalist after Frank (Joe Regalbuto) is physically attacked while covering a political rally in the new episode “Beat the Press.”

I Feel Bad: “I Need My Mom”
NBC, 9:30pm

When Maya (Madhur Jaffrey) is temporarily unable to care for the kids due to an injury, Emet (Sarayu Blue) and David (Paul Adelstein) reluctantly hire a babysitter, only to discover their lives may be better for it.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit: “Alta Kockers”
NBC, 10pm

The investigation into a promising new author’s death leads to a decades-old secret kept between two reclusive brothers.

Friday, Nov. 30

Baby
Netflix
New Series!

Loosely inspired by a true story, this Italian series is a coming-of-age story that explores the unseen lives of Roman high schoolers. In the drama, a group of teens defy society in their search for identity and independence against the backdrop of forbidden love, family pressures and shared secrets.

A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding
Netflix
Must-see sequel! Journalist Amber (Rose McIver) and Aldovia’s Prince Richard (Ben Lamb) plan their holiday nuptials.

1983
Netflix
New Series!

Netflix’s first Polish original series is a conspiracy thriller helmed by four prominent directors from that country. It tells the story of a dystopian world where the Iron Curtain never fell, and Poland is the center of the universe shaping the future of the entire world.

College Football: MAC Conference Championship
ESPN2, 7pm Live

ESPN2 airs the MAC football conference championship game between the winners of the East and West Divisions at Ford Field in Detroit.

College Football: Pac-12 Conference Championship
FOX, 8pm Live

The Pac-12’s North and South Division champions clash tonight for the conference championship at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif.

MacGyver: “Specimen 234 + PAPR + Outbreak”
CBS, 8pm

MacGyver (Lucas Till) and team race to recover a deadly virus before the thief unleashes a global pandemic in the new episode “Specimen 234 + PAPR + Outbreak.”

A Very Nutty Christmas
Lifetime, 8pm
Original Film!

Harried bakery owner Kate Holiday (Melissa Joan Hart) has lost her holiday spirit. But after Kate hangs the last ornament on her tree and goes to bed, she wakes to finds a handsome soldier named Chip (Barry Watson) — who may or may not be the Nutcracker Prince from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker — in her living room. Also stars Marissa Jaret Winokur, Conchata Ferrell and Rizwan Manji.

Blindspot: “Case: Sun, Moon and the Truth”
NBC, 8pm

Remi’s (Jaimie Alexander) schemes put her and Weller (Sullivan Stapleton) in danger, while Patterson (Ashley Johnson) and Rich (Ennis Esmer) solve a mysterious puzzle at the FBI.

Hawaii Five-0: “Mai Ka Po Mai Ka ‘Oia’i’o (Truth Comes From the Night)”
CBS, 9pm

A renowned urban vigilante is killed after making another citizen’s arrest, and Five-0 delves into the world of superheroes and comic books to find the killer in the new episode “Mai Ka Po Mai Ka ‘Oia’i’o (Truth Comes From the Night).”

Crazy Ex-Girlfriend: “I Will Help You”
The CW, 9pm

Rebecca (Rachel Bloom) takes a trip to visit her mother (guest star Tovah Feldshuh). Josh (Vincent Rodriguez III) housesits for Rebecca and discovers being alone is harder than it seems, while Nathaniel (Scott Michael Foster) helps one of Paula’s (Donna Lynne Champlin) clients in an effort to do something good.

Midnight, Texas: “Drown the Sadness in Chardonnay”
NBC, 9pm

Lem (Peter Mensah) makes a shocking decision; Olivia’s (Arielle Kebbel) past comes back to haunt her; Fiji (Parisa Fitz-Henley) seeks outside help from her fellow Light Witches; a suicide pits Manfred (François Arnaud) and Kai (Nestor Carbonell) against one another.

Z Nation: “Water Keepers”
Syfy, 9pm

Doc (Russell Hodgkinson) must “spirit walk” again to help save the chief of the Water Keepers and get the water flowing to Newmerica.

Blue Bloods: “Handcuffs”
CBS, 10pm

Frank (Tom Selleck) orders a raid on an apartment complex after cops are harassed by residents in the new episode “Handcuffs.”

Van Helsing: “Loud Love”
Syfy, 10pm

Doc (Rukiya Bernard) and Jolene (Caroline Cave) clash with Denver authorities over the repellent; Flesh (Vincent Gale) chooses to face his past; Axel (Jonathan Scarfe) struggles with leaving Scarlett (Missy Peregrym) behind; Ivory (Jennifer Cheon) and the Sisterhood infiltrate Denver.

Saturday, Dec. 1

College Football
ABC, CBS, ESPN & FOX, beginning at 12pm Live

It’s college football conference championship Saturday, featuring title games for the Big 12 (ABC), Sun Belt (ESPN), American (ABC), Mountain West (ESPN), Big Ten (FOX) and ACC (ABC). But the best of the bunch is a rematch of last season’s national championship game as Alabama and Georgia clash for the SEC title in Atlanta (CBS).

College Basketball
ESPN, ESPN2 & FOX, beginning at 12pm Live

Saturday college basketball on FOX features Louisville at Seton Hall, Gonzaga at Creighton and Nevada at USC. ESPN2 has UNC-Greensboro at Kentucky, Villanova at La Salle, Vanderbilt vs. NC State, Stetson at Duke and Oregon at Houston. Purdue at Michigan and Stanford at Kansas round out the schedule on ESPN.

Disney Parks Presents a 25 Days of Christmas Holiday Party
Disney Channel, 8pm

This half-hour special, hosted by Jordan Fisher and Disney stars Ruby Rose Turner and Dakota Lotus, features musical performances by Gwen Stefani, Brett Eldredge, Asher Angel and Meg Donnelly and special appearances by Disney Channel stars. Plus, the special takes viewers behind the scenes of Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy, a new experience based on the world of Cars, which rolls into Disney’s Hollywood Studios in spring 2019.

Mingle All the Way
Hallmark Channel, 8pm
Original Film!

The designer of a successful networking/dating app that pairs busy singles with “strictly platonic” partners for all of the holiday season’s social engagements is matched with a man with whom she’s already had several disastrous encounters. Stars Jen Lilley, Brant Daugherty and Lindsay Wagner.

A Twist of Christmas
Lifetime, 8pm
Original Film!

In the frenzy before Christmas, two single parents — busy working mom Abby (Vanessa Lachey) and overwhelmed lawyer Ryan (Brendon Zub) — accidentally mix up their toys at a crowded department store. Although the two parents can’t stand each other, they are forced to work together to salvage the holidays for their children.

Saturday Night Live: “Claire Foy/Anderson .Paak”
NBC, 11:30pm Live

British actress Claire Foy, who won an Emmy for Netflix’s drama The Crown and has starred in two acclaimed recent feature films, First Man and The Girl in the Spider’s Web, makes her SNL hosting debut tonight. She is joined by musical guest Anderson .Paak.