Reel 1852

Debut: Two years ago, Steven Bochco returned to the realm of the inner-city police precinct to produce the hottest new drama of the nascent '90s: NYPD Blue. But last season, newcomer ER stole most of the acclaim. Tonight, Bochco comes out fighting to regain the drama-king crown. This series hopes to capitalize on the Nation's fascination with celebrity murder trials. It will follow a single case— the slaying of a 15-year-old girl found "naked, tied up, strangled, [with] drugs all over the place"— throughout the season. The prime suspect: philandering entrepreneur Richard Cross (Stanley Tucci). Well cast and tautly paced, the pilot introduces the major players. Hoffman: Daniel Benzali. (1:00)

SERIES DEBUT

Debut: Two years ago, Steven Bochco returned to the realm of the inner-city police precinct to produce the hottest new drama of the nascent '90s: NYPD Blue. But last season, newcomer ER stole most of the acclaim. Tonight, Bochco comes out fighting to regain the drama-king crown. This series hopes to capitalize on the Nation's fascination with celebrity murder trials. It will follow a single case— the slaying of a 15-year-old girl found "naked, tied up, strangled, [with] drugs all over the place"— throughout the season. The prime suspect: philandering entrepreneur Richard Cross (Stanley Tucci). Well cast and tautly paced, the pilot introduces the major players. Hoffman: Daniel Benzali. (1:00)