'Torchwood' on BBC America is a Thursday TV pick

'Torchwood: Children of Earth'

I've had a passing relationship with this British sci-fi/fantasy spinoff of "Doctor Who." Then this week I decided to give some of this new season a try. All I can say is, "Wow." Tonight is episode four, but you can catch up with repeat screenings of previous episodes (check the upcoming schedule, OnDemand, iTunes, etc.). Episode three airs at 8 p.m., and episode four at 9 p.m. on BBC America (seattletimes.com/tvlistings).

Doug Knoop, Seattle Times staff

Also on today

"Wild Russia," 8 p.m. (Animal Planet): The wildlife that thrives among the volcanoes on the peninsula of Kamchatka.

"Rio Bravo" (1959), 8 p.m. (AMC): A Texas sheriff and his deputies try to hold a cattle baron's brother in jail.

"Samantha Who?," 8 p.m. (ABC): Sam learns that Winston Funk's former wife (Angie Harmon) played an important role in her life before the accident; Regina's fondness for city life may put a crimp in her plans to meet up with Howard on a cross-country road trip.

"So You Think You Can Dance," 9 p.m. (Fox): Two of the top eight dancers are eliminated; Katie Holmes performs a tribute to singer-dancer Judy Garland.

"Burn Notice," 9 p.m. (USA): Michael, Sam and Fiona help a young boy whose family is being terrorized by his abusive stepfather.

"American Masters: Walter Cronkite: Witness to History," 10 p.m. (KCTS): An encore presentation to honor the newsman, who died Friday, replaces the episode of "Masterpiece Mystery!" originally scheduled.

The New York Times