Critic's corner

This flashback episode is meant to introduce next season's spinoff about Lily van der Woodsen and Rufus Humphrey in the 1980s. But the CW has put the kibosh on that series, so tonight you can catch a glimpse of what might have been, with Brittany Snow as the young Lily (above left, with Krysten Ritter). To be honest, it sounded like a bad idea from the get-go. I've loved Kelly Rutherford as the older Lily - she's remarkably sympathetic - but she's not really a character worth pursuing further. Neither is Matthew Settle's Rufus, who's never been convincing as a 1990s rock star. Proposed: more Georgina.

How I Met Your Mother 8:30 p.m., Channel 4

I generally savor this show, but I am especially happy when the writers give us a mythology episode. So when Stella (Sarah Chalke) showed up last week, I was pleasantly scandalized. She's on board tonight, too, but I don't think she's the mother. She's just another step along the way. Pictured (from left): Josh Radnor, Chalke, and Jason Jones.

24 9 p.m., Channel 25

Kim is in harm's way. Go harm.

Table for 12 9 and 9:30 p.m., TLC

Table for 2 on the opposite corner, please.

Dhani Tackles the Globe 9 p.m., Travel Channel

Head to New Zealand.

Wallander 8 p.m., Channel 44

Kenneth Branaghstrom.

House 8 p.m., Channel 25

Alan Brady.