what to watch this week

I've been out of the loop for a few days, but there's still a lot to look forward to this week on television. Sometimes, a little escapism is just the ticket.

Here are some highlights of what's premiering and returning this week:

Monday

• All the regular shows are back, including Chuck. Watch Chuck!
• New series Life Unexpected is premiering on CW. Look for a review of the first episode coming up this week.
• 24 continues its 2-night season premiere on FOX.

Tuesday

• American Idol auditions continue with Chicago.
• Southland continues on TNT with the second episode of the first season. I'm not going to tune in until the new episodes begin, but this is a good way to catch up if you haven't watched before. It's worth a look.
• White Collar returns from the break on USA. Anyone else dying to know what's going on with that suspicious cliff hanger?

Wednesday

• American Idol auditions continue in Orlando.
• Did anyone watch the new season premiere of Leverage last week? Check it out. It's still one of my favorites.
• New series Human Target premieres on FOX. You may have seen the "preview event" on Sunday night, which is repeating on Tuesday. An hour-long action drama about a unique private contractor/security expert/bodyguard who integrates himself into his clients' lives and eliminate the threat by becoming the human target. Not sure if I'm going to watch this one. Chi McBride playing the best friend is my only motivation.

Thursday

• Vampire Diaries and Supernatural return on CW. I started to get into Vampire Diaries before the break, but I'm still only watching online. Thursday nights are too busy!
• The Office returns with a potential buyer coming to check out Dunder Mifflin.
• Burn Notice season premiere on USA.
• New series The Deep End premieres on ABC. You may have seen one of the 1,000 previews - an hour-long drama about a batch of newbies at a law firm. As far as I know, it's only running for six weeks. Look for a first episode review later this week.

Friday

• Dollhouse series finale on FOX. I never took to this one, but sorry for those who did. RIP.

Saturday

• If you're not sick of award shows yet, the Screen Actors Guild Awards will air on TNT and TBS.
• Also, US Figure Skating competition. Get ready for the Olympics!

Those are the highlights. Enjoy!