“Tell Me You Love Me” (9 p.m., HBO): Much of the buzz emanating from this new drama is

“Tell Me You Love Me” (9 p.m., HBO): Much of the buzz emanating from this new drama is attached to its sex scenes — some of the most explicit you’ll ever see in prime time. But carnal gymnastics aside, “Tell Me” is an intense and provocative exploration of human relationships that, after a slow start, gains plenty of traction. The series offers an up-close-and-very-personal look at three couples as they navigate critical periods in their lives. The only common thread they share is their connection to a therapist (Jane Alexander), who works delicately to guide them toward healthier unions. Give them some time and you’re likely to find yourself developing attachments to some or all of them. The cast includes Ally Walker, Tim DeKay and Sonya Walker.

“MTV Video Music Awards” (9 p.m., MTV): You never know what to expect at the “MTV Video Music Awards” and that’s part of why it’s so fun. This year, the VMAs come to us from the Palms Resort in Las Vegas and the list of performers includes, among others, Timbaland, Kanye West, Nelly Furtado, Foo Fighters, 50 Cent, Akon and Rihanna.

“Decoding Nostradamus” (9 p.m., Discovery Channel): Nostradamus was an obscure astrologer from France who wrote an almanac and later published a book of prophecies. How he became a household name, associated with predicting major historic events, is explored in this two-hour special. Combining dramatization with experts’ commentary, the program traces the legend of the man born Michel de Nostradame.

“Alive Day Memories: Home From Iraq” (10:30 p.m., HBO): The war in Iraq has left more than 25,000 Americans injured — some of them severely. “Alive Day Memories: Home From Iraq” is a new documentary in which executive producer James Gandolfini conducts emotionally powerful interviews with 10 individuals who recall the day they narrowly escaped death. (Airs after the sixth-season opener of “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”).