The fall featured its fair share of TV blunders. But we’ve now reached the midseason point and it’s time to hit the restart button. A wave of new shows is headed our way, and several old favorites are making welcome returns.

1. A “Downton Abbey” wedding – The much-anticipated arrival of Shirley MacLaine isn’t the only big news going into Season 3 of the deliciously addictive period drama. After plenty of on-again, off-again anxiety, the show’s primary lovebirds, Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) and Matthew (Dan Stevens), are preparing to walk down the aisle. But will the big celebration come off without a hitch? We’ll believe it when we see it. (“Downton Abbey” returns at 8 p.m. Jan. 6, PBS).

2. Judging the judges – Can Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj avoid turning “American Idol” into a vicious cage match? Will Usher and Shakira enjoy the ride as they take their chairs for a spin on “The Voice”? It will be interesting to see how famous new judges fit into TV’s biggest talent shows. “Idol” could be in a precarious position as it deals with reports of bitter feuds between Carey and Minaj (who will be joined by Keith Urban). Then again, the animosity just might provide “Idol” with the ratings boost it needs in its 12th season. (“Idol” returns at 7 p.m. Jan. 16, Fox; “The Voice” returns at 7 p.m. March 25, NBC).