copyright 2009, The Washington Post Of more than two dozen newbies on last season's broadcast schedule, fewer than half have made it to their sophomore year. Some died quick deaths. (Remember 'Do Not Disturb'?) But others attained the coveted status of break-out hit. (See 'The Mentalist.') Others with so-so ratings were able to hang on for renewal ('Dollhouse'). To help you keep track, here's a look at which programs will -- and won't -- be back for a second season this fall. '90210' Returns: Tuesday, Sept. 8, 8 p.m., CW Stars: Rob Estes, Lori Loughlin Premise: This update of Aaron Spelling's 1990s hit 'Beverly Hills, 90210' returns to perhaps California's hippest high school, centering on two siblings whose dad just happens to be the principal. When we last saw it: Revelations and accusations were made at an after-prom party, while a baby was born elsewhere. Noteworthy: '90210' will be paired on Tuesday evenings with another Spelling remake, 'Melrose Place.' 'Parks and Recreation' Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17, 8:30 p.m., NBC Stars: Amy Poehler, Rashida Jones Premise: An earnest local government bureaucrat takes on the system in Pawnee, Ind. When we last saw it: Poehler's character tries to impress an important local figure. Noteworthy: The first two episodes of this season will be paired in the 8 o'clock hour with Poehler's return to co-host two episodes of 'Saturday Night Live: Weekend Update Thursday' with Seth Meyers. 'Fringe' Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17, 9 p.m., Fox Stars: Joshua Jackson, Anna Torv Premise: Scientists and law enforcement officials investigate unexplained and frightening phenomena. When we last saw it: Alternate reality. Enough said. Noteworthy: Meghan Markle ('90210') joins the cast in a recurring role as an FBI agent. And Leonard Nimoy will be back. 'Castle' Returns: Monday, Sept. 21, 10 p.m., ABC Stars: Nathan Fillion, Stana Katic Premise: A mystery novelist annoys and assists a New York police detective. When we last saw it: Fillion's title character discovers a secret about his partner in crime-solving. Noteworthy: The network has been promoting Season 2 by posting a serialized novel based on the show at ABC.com. 'Gary Unmarried' Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 23, 8:30 p.m., CBS Stars: Paula Marshall, Jay Mohr Premise: A divorced couple with two kids navigates a post-marriage relationship. When we last saw it: The exes somehow find themselves in the bedroom together. Noteworthy: Keegan Michael Key joins the cast as Gary's friend/competitor. 'The Mentalist' Returns: Thursday, Sept. 24, 10 p.m., CBS Stars: Simon Baker, Robin Tunney Premise: A former fake psychic turned crime consultant helps the California Bureau of Investigation crack cases. When we last saw it: Baker's character barely misses capturing the serial killer who murdered his wife and child. Noteworthy: Baker is up for an Emmy as best actor in a drama series. 'Dollhouse' Returns: Friday, Sept. 25, 9 p.m., Fox Stars: Eliza Dushku, Olivia Williams Premise: Individuals are programmed for special assignments and then have their memories erased. When we last saw it: A rogue doll imprints Dushku's character with a new personality. He then escapes. Noteworthy: You can find an unaired 13th -- or 14th, if you count the never-aired original pilot -- episode on the DVD of the first season of the Joss Whedon series. 'Southland' Returns: Friday, Sept. 25, 9 p.m., NBC Stars: Ben McKenzie, Michael Cudlitz Premise: A fresh-faced Los Angeles cop is paired with a seasoned, more jaded officer. When we last saw it: One member of the force is shot while trying to break up a fight. Noteworthy: The new Friday night time slot may have been a death knell in the past, but it may not hurt to be sandwiched in between NBC staple 'Law & Order' and the new Jay Leno prime-time show. 'Lie to Me' Returns: Monday, Sept. 28, 9 p.m., Fox Stars: Tim Roth, Kelli Williams Premise: A team in the nation's capital is skilled at uncovering deception. When we last saw it: Terrorist bombings rock the metropolitan area. Noteworthy: Last season's guest star Mekhi Phifer joins the cast as a series regular, continuing in his role as an FBI agent. End adv wknd Aug. 29-30 