Critic's corner

(justine hunt/globe staff/file 2006)

George Carlin: The Mark Twain Prize 9 p.m., Channel 2

I recently watched the first-ever episode of "Saturday Night Live," from 1975, which was hosted by a fired-up George Carlin. It takes him about a minute to drop a hash joke. Tonight, Jon Stewart, Bill Maher, Garry Shandling, Lily Tomlin, Denis Leary, Joan Rivers, Lewis Black, Richard Belzer, and Margaret Cho all show up to honor him for winning the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. This is the first time the award is presented posthumously in its 11-year history.

The Exterminators 10:30 p.m., A&E

You don't think pest extermination is fascinating, but you're missing Gil Grissom from "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation"? Check out this bit of reality fetishism, which goes very deep into the world of pest control. Host Billy Bretherton, who runs the company Vexcon, is smart, gonzo, and, when he is able, humane.

American Idol 8 p.m., Channel 25

Hollyweeping.

Lie to Me 9 p.m., Channel 25

Veritaining.

Lost 9 p.m., Channel 5

Tenskipping.

Colossal Squid 8 p.m., Animal Planet

Calamarenormous.

Damages 10 p.m., FX

Demonatrixy.