Tuning in: On TV this week.
Saturday March 12
Thicker Than Water (Hallmark Channel, 9-11 p.m.): Entertainment lawyer Natalie Jones (Melissa Gilbert) discovers that her deceased father was once married to a rodeo queen. Natalie uncovers his secret life, bonds with her new family on a ranch, and falls in love with a veterinarian. Sentimental, yes, but strong performances and a generous spirit make this pleasant family fare.
Jake in Progress (ABC, 9-10 p.m., special back-to-back episodes, continuing March 17 in its regular time slot at 8 p.m.): John Stamos stars as Jake, a slick publicist with a celebrity clientele who tries to shed his womanizing ways to find true love. Jake's affection for his misfit friends (even as he finagles favors from them) is kind of sweet. Aimed at young adults.
Kelsey Grammer Presents: The Sketch Show (Fox, 9:30-10 p.m.): Fans of Grammer who also like sketch comedy like "Laugh-In" or "Monty Python" may find this new series a hoot. Featuring a staggering 30 vignettes (give or take) per half-hour, the show is so fast-paced, you'll miss something if you blink. It can be extremely silly and moderately crass, but it's authentically witty and the talented cast is not without charm.
Great Performances: One Night With Rod Stewart (PBS, check local listings): The gravel-voiced singer still has a way about him in this concert. His new interpretations of big band tunes are cool, but Stewart's old songs are still his best. Singing along with him whenever invited, the audience buoys the music with their affection, making for a very atmospheric show. Dame Edna Everage, the comic cross-dresser, hosts the event.
