“Psych”
Wednesday 10pm, USA
“Psych” is an amiable little procedural that has found its spot on the basic-cable line-up. This week’s episode will flirt with edginess as it pays homage to one of the most disturbing shows in TV history, David Lynch’s groundbreaking “Twin Peaks.” In addition to being adorable and charming, “Psych” star James Roday is a huge “TP” fan, and he wrote this episode, in which Shawn and Gus travel to Dual Spires, a weird little town thrown into chaos after the murder of a high school girl. Look for cameos by “Peaks” stars Sherilyn Fenn (Audrey), Sheryl Lee (Laura Palmer), Dana Ashbrook (Bobby), and even the Log Lady.
“Top Chef: All Stars”
Wednesday 10pm, Bravo
So last season ended with a whimper, and “Just Desserts” was a gigantic, crazy mess. But I am still excited for this all-star season of the venerable cooking competition. Eighteen contestants from the previous seven seasons are back for another shot at the win, including major contenders like Tiffani (Season 1), Richard (S4), Jen C (a.k.a. “Bitchface Jen,” S6), Angelo (S7) and Tre (S3), plus fan favorites like Carla (S5), Fabio (S5) and Tiffany (S7). Requisite douchebags like Marcel (S2), Stephen (S1) and Spike (S4) are also around for drama. But with no chaff for these guys to hide in, I can’t see any of them except for Marcel hanging around too long. The judging panel remains the same, with the substitution of Anthony Bourdain in the Eric Ripert part-time slot.
“VH1 Divas Salute the Troops”
Sunday 9pm, VH1
Back in 1998 VH1 launched its “Divas” series of concert specials, which over the years featured big-deal divas like Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Cher, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Faith Hill and the diva to end all divas, Aretha Franklin. By 2004 the star wattage had dimmed considerably, with the likes of Ashanti, Joss Stone and—yikes—Jessica Simpson sharing the stage. Last year the project came back with a host of teen-skewing pop acts, and now VH1 is adding a nationalistic slant for a show that will raise funds for the USO’s Operation Enduring Care. Performers this year include the ubiquitous Katy Perry, who basically is a modern USO girl; country duo Sugarland; girl-fronted emo popsters Paramore; and Nicki Minaj, a singer/rapper who I might respect more if she could either sing or rap.