TONIGHT ON TV
FULLER HOUSE
NETFLIX, FRIDAY
Shows we discovered and loved in our childhood tend to be beyond criticism: We retain affection, even when reason argues against that lingering fondness. Which makes this sequel the perfect show for those who loved the original, and the perfect show to avoid for those of us who had no use for it.
THE ACADEMY AWARDS
ABC, SUNDAY, 8:30 ET/5:30 PT
Though his act worked for many people, for others Chris Rock’s usually welcome take-no-prisoners comedy was an uncomfortable fit for the Oscars when he last hosted in 2005. This year, however, it would seem his timing couldn’t be better. Buffeted by criticism for the lack of diversity in their slate of nominees, the Oscar folks expect (and deserve) just the kind of comic skewering Rock seems likely to deliver. Before we can see how that works out, however, we must endure a 90-minute ABC pre-show where, if tradition holds, the hosts will compete with their equally slobbering friends at E! to see how many star egos they can stroke and how many viewer brain cells they can destroy.
VINYL
HBO, SUNDAY, 9 ET/PT
This well-acted, well-reviewed but poorly rated new HBO series moves into its third episode with Jamie (Juno Temple) learning a lesson about musical authenticity. As for those ratings, fans need not worry: HBO already has renewed the show for a second season.