The Daily Show "TV Tonight: 'The Hour,' 'Conan,'"

View full sizeBBC AmericaTonight is "The Hour."

It's the calm before the fall season storm of new shows these days, as summer series wind up their seasons, procedurals air reruns and plenty of us bury our noses in good -- or even not-so-good books.

"The Hour": BBC America debuts this promising Brit series, which is influenced by both "Broadcast News," and a bit of "Mad Men." Set in 1956, it follows three broadcasters (one of whom is played by Dominic West, aka McNulty, from "The Wire") as they set about creating a new news show. Beyond their romantic triangle, however lurks some espionage doings. (Troy Patterson of Slate has an entertaining review.) The cast also features Ben Whishaw and Romola Garai. 7 p.m., BBC America

"Conan": The redhead's guests tonight include the ever-lovable Paul Rudd, and Jessica Chastain ("Tree of Life"). 11 p.m., TBS

"The Daily Show": Jon Stewart welcomes Michael Steele, former chairman of the Republican National Committee, and now a political analyst for MSNBC. They should have plenty to chat about. 11 p.m., Comedy Central