TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE

"ER," 9 p.m., NBC. For one splendid hour, "ER" is as good as it was in its glory days. As a bonus, the wooden Dr. Banfield (Angela Bassett) finally gets humanity. During a run, Banfield sees a 3-year-old girl pulled from the lake. She helps her there and at the hospital. That triggers a flashback to her own crisis, six years earlier, when Dr. Mark Greene was in charge. It's a chance to bring back a dead character — and a reminder of the rich humanity Anthony Edwards brought. Soon, "ER" leaps between time periods. Former cast members help out; so does Courtney Vance, Bassett's husband in real life and in this episode. Superbly written and directed by David Zabel, this is a throwback to "ER" at its best.

OF NOTE

"Ugly Betty," 7 p.m., ABC. There will be big trouble unless the shipment of the magazine is stopped. But only Daniel can do that, and Betty can't contact him at his retreat.

"Grey's Anatomy," 8 p.m., ABC. Two new characters draw quick dislike from staffers. One (Mary McDonnell) brings firm rules. Another (Melissa George, who was wonderful in HBO's "In Treatment") is Meredith's friend, a new intern.

"The Office," 8 p.m., NBC. Michael takes Andy and Oscar on a business trip to Canada.

"CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," 8 p.m., CBS. After a shooting in a Korean neighborhood, witnesses won't talk.

"30 Rock," 8:31 p.m., NBC. The show keeps throwing in big-deal guest stars. Tonight, Jennifer Aniston plays a friend of Liz and Jenna. She tends to latch on to guys; now her new target is Jack.

"Independent Lens: Lioness," midnight, PBS. This quietly crafted film follows the contrasts between women's lives at home and in Iraq.