Explorer: Born to Rage?
Controversy surrounds recent research suggesting that a “warrior gene” may cause certain individuals to exhibit higher-than-average levels of aggression. Probing the hypothesis, punk-rock musician and writer Henry Rollins—who says he has contended with his own anger issues—hosts this episode of Explorer, undergoing testing for the gene and interviewing bikers, martial artists, and former NFL linebacker Dick Butkus. Tuesday, Dec. 14, at 10 p.m., National Geographic Channel
Independent Lens: 45365
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This beguiling and often lyrical portrait of life in Sidney, Ohio—an American Anytown in ZIP Code 45365—was filmed by two brothers who are native sons. Unfolding without narration, the film embraces the commonplace—from haircuts to high school football, politics to policing. It won the Truer Than Fiction Award at the Independent Spirit Awards. Tuesday, Dec. 14, at 10 p.m., PBS; check local listings
24/7 Penguins/Capitals: Road to the NHL Winter Classic
HBO’s critically acclaimed 24/7 series ventures into hockey to follow the Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals through the run-up to their outdoor New Year’s Day showdown, which will be the first NHL game ever played at Pittsburgh’s Heinz Field. Throughout the four-week series, cameras will have behind-the-scenes access to both teams’ players, coaches, and executives. Wednesday, Dec. 15, at 10 p.m., HBO
The Peacemaker: L.A. Gang Wars
This new docu-series follows Malik Spellman, a convict turned violence-prevention counselor, as he attempts to settle conflicts among Los Angeles gang members before bloodshed results. In the debut episode, tensions escalate between rival Crips factions in Spellman’s own neighborhood when a young pregnant woman is gunned down. Rapper/actor Ice-T is executive producer. Thursday, Dec. 16, at 10 p.m., A&E
Christmas in Washington
Tenor Andrea Bocelli, pop diva Mariah Carey, R&B chart-topper Maxwell, rock singer Annie Lennox, and Glee star Matthew Morrison are among the performers scheduled to entertain President Obama, the First Lady, and other Washington dignitaries during an annual show benefiting the Children’s National Medical Center. Ellen DeGeneres hosts. Friday, Dec. 17, at 8 p.m., TNT
Other highlights
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
Jennifer Love Hewitt guest-stars in an episode that draws attention to the issue of untested rape kits—case-specific DNA evidence that never makes it to a crime lab. Wednesday, Dec. 15, at 10 p.m., NBC
Lombardi
A profile of legendary football coach Vince Lombardi, with commentary by family
members and contemporaries. Friday, Dec. 17, at 6:30 p.m., HBO
Live From Lincoln Center: Baroque Holiday
Bach’s Double Concerto, Corelli’s Christmas Concerto, and works by Vivaldi, Sammartini, and Tartini will be performed by the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center in a program featuring recorder virtuoso Michala Petri. Sunday, Dec. 19, at 5 p.m., PBS; check local listings
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