NGTV Guide: Thursday, October 20

The Vampire Diaries – the CW 8/7c
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” – On the first day of their senior year, Elena (Nina Dobrev), Caroline (Candice Accola), Bonnie (Kat Graham) and Matt (Zach Roerig) are still reeling from recent events, while Tyler (Michael Trevino) seems to be enjoying everything a little too much. Damon (Ian Somerhalder) is annoyed by a new houseguest, and everyone is surprised by the arrival of a new student in Alaric’s (Matt Davis) history class. Matt asks Bonnie for help when he realizes he made a serious mistake. Meanwhile, Stefan (Paul Wesley) continues to carry out his latest assignment from Klaus (Joseph Morgan, who does not appear in the episode).

Person of Interest – CBS 9/8c
“Judgment” – When the Machine produces the social security number of a judge renowned for his tough sentencing, Reese and Finch have the added challenge of investigating a POI who wants nothing to do with their brand of vigilante justice.

The Secret Circle – the CW 9/8c
“Wake” – When Jake (guest star Chris Zylka), a mysterious young man, shows up in Chance Harbor, he learns a lot has changed since his last visit. For one, the girl he left behind, Faye (Phoebe Tonkin) has discovered she’s a witch and has plans to get even with the handsome guy who broke her heart. To complicate things further, he sets his sights on the alluring Cassie (Britt Robertson), much to Adam (Thomas Dekker) and Faye’s dismay.

The Mentalist – CBS 10/9c
“Blood and Sand” – Jane and the CBI team investigate the murder of a woman whose body washed up on an island off the coast of California. Meanwhile, Rigsby worries that his relationship with a public defender may create awkwardness between him and Van Pelt.