Critic’s corner

December 10, 2009|Matthew Gilbert, Globe Staff

The Office 9 p.m., Channel 7

Most shows, especially sitcoms, generally lose their mojo after three or four seasons. Having said that, “The Office’’ has been pretty good this season, its sixth. Having said that, some of the filler episodes have been forgettable. Having said that, the wedding episode was a classic, and Michael dating Pam’s mother was clever. Having said that, I hope the show doesn’t drag on for too many more seasons. Having said that, tonight’s Christmas episode, in which Michael is angry that Phyllis is the office Santa, could be funny.

Bones 8 p.m., Channel 25

Lovers of all things Deschanel, tonight is your night. Zooey visits her sister Emily’s series, playing Brennan’s newly discovered and distant relative Margaret. Brennan’s father, played by Ryan O’Neal, invites Margaret to spend the holidays with him. Lovers of all things Santa may not be quite as thrilled: The big man is blown up after a botched robbery.

30 Rock 9:30 p.m., Channel 7

The gods of satire smile on Tina Fey and give her a cable company.

Survivor: Samoa 8 p.m., Channel 4

Nomoa, thanks.

The Jeff Dunham Show 9 p.m., Comedy Central

(This show stinks.) Who said that?

Vampire Diaries 8 p.m., Channel 56

Dear Diary: Please let Uncle Saul agree to work on his cuspids.

The Real Housewives of Orange County 10 p.m., Bravo

Lynne gets her facelift. The rest of the world sinks another inch.