Imitation insincere on CBS’ ‘Perfect’

Neither bad press nor scandal nor prison walls can prevent Martha Stewart from inspiring tiresome television tributes, send-ups and parodies. Add the “reality” series “Wickedly Perfect” (7 p.m., CBS) to the junk heap of programs that have tried and failed to cash in on our culture’s fascination with and admiration, fear and loathing of Martha Stewart and all she represents.

Unlike Stewart, “Wickedly Perfect” is perfectly bland, utterly predictable and frequently dull. “Perfect” features a dozen self-proclaimed tastemakers competing for the title of Viacom’s Corporate Diva of Domesticity. The last person standing is guaranteed a book deal with Viacom publisher Simon & Schuster, a development deal for a CBS show and at least six appearances on CBS’ “The Early Show.”

The makers of “Perfect” have decided to emphasize interpersonal tension over creative process, and as a result we hear a lot of sniping. We never learn why these folks were chosen or what makes them more tasteful, handy or cultured than the average viewer.

  • ABC has reshuffled their schedule. Beginning tonight, “Life as We Know It” will air at 7 p.m., followed by “Extreme Makeover” (8 p.m.).

Tonight’s other highlights

  • The Cohens welcome a new family member on “The O.C.” (7 p.m., Fox).
  • The facts behind the murder of an Arthur Conan Doyle buff are anything but elementary on “CSI” (8 p.m., CBS).
  • Jeff Goldblum guest stars on “Will & Grace” (8 p.m., NBC).
  • A bright student vanishes after a college board prep test on “Without a Trace” (9 p.m., CBS).

Late night

Michael Keaton and Jamie Lynn Spears chat on “Late Show with David Letterman” (10:35 p.m., CBS) … Jay Leno hosts Nicole Kidman, with music by Mario on “The Tonight Show” (10:35 p.m., NBC) … Robin Williams and Guerilla Black appear on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” (11:05 p.m., ABC).

Matt Damon, Kevin Pollak and Randy Newman chat on “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” (11:35 p.m., NBC) … Craig Ferguson hosts Jason Alexander and The Donnas on “The Late, Late Show” (11:37 p.m., CBS).