Sunday TV: American Music Awards, 'Good Wife'

The American Music Awards

ABC, 8 ET/PT

In the grand scheme of things, award shows that existed independently of TV coverage (the Oscars) have more validity than those invented for the medium (American Music Awards), and awards that are selected by the performers' peers (the Grammys) have more import than those selected by popular vote (the American Music Awards). But for TV viewers, that difference may not matter, at least not if you're excited by a scheduled lineup of performers that includes Selena Gomez, One Direction, Carrie Underwood and Jennifer Lopez, who also hosts.

The Good Wife

CBS, 9 ET/PT

No TV drama has been better this season, and certainly none has been more fun to watch, than The Good Wife, which has found new life by sending Alicia off into her own struggling new law firm. This week, her struggles bring her into conflict with Louis Canning (Michael J. Fox), while Diane's efforts to build her firm's business brings her into conflict with her own ideals. If you're an Emmy voter and you're not watching — come on.

Saints & Strangers

NatGeo, 9 ET/PT

NatGeo makes one of its rare forays into scripted programming with this two-part recounting of the voyage of the Mayflower and the first Thanksgiving. Despite the timing, expect a darker take on the holiday.