2004 highlights reviewed

Just what were the most memorable small-screen moments of the past year? Find out when Tom Bergeron hosts “Greatest Moments 2004” (7 p.m., ABC). Compiled by a weekly TV listings magazine, this roundup includes Ashlee Simpson’s “Saturday Night Live” lip-synching gaffe; Ken Jennings’ “Jeopardy” streak; and the much-hyped “Friends” finale.

No glance back at 2004 would be complete without at least mentioning the Janet Jackson Super Bowl fiasco. Speaking of fiascos, no recap of last winter’s Democratic primaries will ever omit Vermont Gov. Howard Dean’s campaign-ending shriek.

For all of the hype, neither the “Frasier” nor the “Friends” finales will be remembered as their shows’ finest hours. Will thoughts of Tom Brokaw’s sign-off keep us misty? I think not.

If I had to put one episodic television moment from 2004 into a time capsule, it would be the murder of Adriana on “The Sopranos.” Just because it was long anticipated did not make it any less shocking.

Rumor has it that Adriana didn’t really die. She’s now in the Witness Protection Program on “Joey,” where nobody has bothered to find her.

Tonight’s other highlights

  • Ray thinks he’s found the sure-fire Christmas gift for Frank and Marie on “Everybody Loves Raymond” (8 p.m., CBS).
  • On back-to-back episodes of “Las Vegas” (NBC), Alec Baldwin guest stars (8 p.m.), catching a thief the old fashioned way (9 p.m.).
  • The Miami Dolphins host the New England Patriots on “Monday Night Football” (8 p.m., ABC).
  • A “flash mob” turns murderous on “CSI: Miami” (9 p.m., CBS).

Late night

Bill Murray appears on “Late Show with David Letterman” (10:35 p.m., CBS) … Jay Leno hosts Hilary Swank on “The Tonight Show” (10:35 p.m., NBC) … James Lipton appears on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” (11:05 p.m., ABC).