Sadly, the holidays are over and it’s back to the daily grind. But one good thing leads to another, and the end of the holiday season means the beginning of some of your favorite television shows. So this week, when the work day is over, grab a seat on the couch and tune into these can’t miss season openers.

1. The Bachelor, Monday, January 4, 8 P.M. (ABC)
ABC has made it a habit to cast America’s favorite eliminated contestants as the next Bachelor and Bachelorette. This season is no different, with Jake Pavelka, the squeaky-clean pilot from last season, searching for true love. With 25 girls to choose from—and one who just might be “the one”—you can be sure this nice guy won’t finish last . . . this time.

2. The Biggest Loser, Tuesday, January 5, 8 P.M. (NBC)
Right on the heels of Season 8, The Biggest Loser is back with Season 9, and eleven couples in need of a second chance. If you were inspired by last season’s Danny, who lost 239 pounds to win the title, this next season will give you another reason to get off the couch and start working towards your New Year’s resolution.

3. American Idol, Tuesday, January 12 & Wednesday, January 13, 8 P.M. (FOX)
After nine seasons of American Idol you know the drill—after tens of thousands of auditions and weeks of head-to-head singing competition (and a painful amount of commercials in between) someone will be crowned American Idol. One major difference this year: Paula is gone (tear) and Ellen DeGeneres is taking her place. We’ll see how Ellen’s quirky humor adds to this year’s search for America’s next singing superstar.

4. 24, Sunday, January 17, 9 P.M. (FOX)
Jack is back and you know what that means—millions of lives are at stake and a certain rogue agent will do anything to save them. Who knows how this season’s plot will unfold, but one thing is for sure—this seemingly invincible superstar, with his gruff voice and modest demeanor, will defy the odds and save the day once again.

And don’t miss the tangled web of love and drama on HBO’s Big Love starting Sunday, January 10, at 9 P.M., or FX’s Damages on Monday, January 25, at 10. P.M., with amazing performances by Glenn Close, the most devious litigator you love to hate and her sharp-witted protégé played by Rose Byrne.

Interested in a show but haven’t watched it in the past? Rent past seasons on DVD and catch up before the new season starts.