The semi-trailblazing quality of "Undercovers" (NBC, 8 tonight) is being downplayed by the cast and the network, and perhaps they should. Although it's not common, this isn't the first time black actors have headlined a one-hour network show.

But part of my anticipation for the show was based on seeing Boris Kodjoe and Gugu Mbatha-Raw play a kind of "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" part precisely because black actors routinely should be considered for roles like this, but aren't. Look at them and tell me they aren't as pretty as Brad and Angie.

Unfortunately what they do lack is the Brangelina's flat-out star power, as well as the ease with banter and sweet chemistry of Stefanie Powers and Robert Wagner  from "Hart to Hart." Without those qualities, "Undercovers" is kind of flat.

Let the "Alias" comparisons begin.

USA Network's newest member of the Character Family, "Covert Affairs," has such a strong "Alias" vibe that the star, Piper Perabo, even looks and sounds a little like a blonde Jennifer Garner.

Perabo plays Annie Walker, a CIA agent so brand new she wasn't even able to finish her last month of training before being snatched off The Farm by the agency for a special assignment -- a very timely Russian spy caper.

It seems Annie is something of a prodigy with languages (we also learn that she excels at driving and deception) and has a sad romantic backstory that figures prominently in her decision to join the agency.