Critic's corner

By Matthew Gilbert, Globe Staff  |  June 4, 2009

Burn Notice 9 p.m., USA

This show, which returns for a third season tonight, is always a kick. Last season, the writers pushed hard on the overarching plotline about who pushed Michael out of the CIA, but the show is most fun when he and his pals are rescuing victims in the crime-of-the-week stories. Oh, and it's always a good time when Sharon Gless shows up as Michael's nutty mom.

The Big Bang Theory 8 p.m., Channel 4

Like many other viewers, I grew fond of this loud yet lovable sitcom over the last season. And tonight's repeat played a part in my conversion. Christine Baranski guest stars as Leonard's mother, whose cold, neurotic, scientific manner is curiously similar to Sheldon's.

Biography 10 p.m., Biography Channel

Aerosmith. (Review, next page)

Iconoclasts 8 p.m., Sundance Channel

Paul Simon.

The Late Show With David Letterman 11:35 p.m., Channel 4

Elvis Costello.

Will & Grace 11:30 p.m., Lifetime

Barry Manilow.

I'm a Celebrity . . . Get Me Out of Here! 8 p.m., Channel 7

Sanjaya.