Richard Gadd’s Baby Reindeer follow-up sees childhood friends reunite with devastating consequences. Half Man will stream for free on BBC iPlayer in the UK, on HBO Max in the US and Stan in Australia. Don't worry if you’re away from home, because you can watch Half Man from anywhere with a VPN – and free in the UK.

Gadd created, wrote and stars in the new drama alongside Jamie Bell, playing childhood friends Ruben and Niall, once as close as brothers, now navigating adulthood apart. But, when Ruben turns up at Niall’s wedding 30 years on from their days as carefree youngsters, it’s clear he’s changed — on edge, shifty and far from his old self, it’s not long before things build to an explosion of violence which leaves the pair reassessing their decades old friendship.

Delving back in to Ruben and Niall’s relationship from the 80s to present day, Half Man explores male relationships and toxic masculinity through the lenses of violence, brotherhood and love and looks at just how fragile these seemingly unbreakable bonds can really be, with Mitchell Robertson (Niall) and Stuart Campbell (Ruben) portraying the younger iterations of the pair.

Much of Gadd’s previous work has explored masculinity, particularly Netflix sensation Baby Reindeer, but Half Man points the lens straight at what it means to be a man in the modern world. “All of my stories explore human feelings, but this time, I wanted to come up with an idea that explores what it means to be a man in this ever-changing world through these two characters” says the writer, “I think that much of how society has been structured can lead to men having an inability to express themselves and express love and vulnerability, so it felt interesting to posit that conversation through Niall and Ruben.”

If Baby Reindeer is anything to go by, this could get delightfully dark. Here's how to watch Half Man from anywhere in the world. We've got all the information you'll need below.

How to watch Half Man online in the UK for free

How to watch Half Man in the US

HBO Max will be the US home of Half Man with episodes streaming weekly from Thursday, April 23.

HBO Max subscriptions start at $10.99 per month or $109.99 per year for its basic tier, but you can pay more to get rid of ads or bundle it with Hulu and Disney Plus.

UK citizens abroad who want to access their usual free stream will need a VPN to watch Half Man. We've got all the details you need for that below.

How to watch Half Man in Australia

Aussies can stream Half Man on Stan. Weekly episodes start streaming on Saturday, April 25.

A subscription to Stan starts from AU$12 per month, going up to AU$22 for 4K streaming.

UK viewers Down Under who want to access their usual free stream will need a VPN to watch Half Man. We've got all the details right here.

How to watch Half Man from anywhere with a VPN

If you're traveling outside the UK, you can watch Half Man on the BBC iPlayer streaming service by using a VPN – no matter where you are in the world!

Normally a streaming service will know where you are trying to tune in from and block you if you're not in the right country but a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an app that hides your location. That means you can access your usual sports and entertainment services even while you're traveling abroad.

Our favorite VPN is NordVPN, which is the No. 1-rated VPN in the world right now according to our sister site, TechRadar.

How to use a VPN to watch any stream

• Download the app at NordVPN
• Choose the location of the streaming service you want to watch – in this case, the UK
• Navigate to the streaming service and start watching!

There has been a public outpouring of love and support ever since Pauline Quirke’s family announced in January last year that the much-loved actor, best known for her roles in Birds of a Feather, Emmerdale and Broadchurch, has been living with dementia.

Now her 31-year-old son, Charlie Quirke, who starred opposite his mum in Birds of a Feather, has decided to raise both awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK by running the London Marathon on Sunday 26 April 2026 in honour of his beloved mum. But he won’t be taking on the emotional challenge alone...

Friends and loved ones, including his girlfriend Chloe, Gavin & Stacey’s Andrew Knott and Jamestown’s Luke Roskell, will be running alongside him as part of Team Quirke, hoping to complete the 26.2-mile course through the capital for dementia research.

To support Charlie and his London Marathon team’s fundraising for Alzheimer’s Research UK, donate online at Team Quirke – Run for Pauline. You can watch the London Marathon on April 26 on BBC1 live from 8.30am then BBC2 from 2pm.

Here, in an exclusive interview, Charlie talks about his brutal training regime and why he’ll be carrying a photo of his mum across the finish line…

Our exclusive interview with Charlie Quirke

Donate to Team Quirke

To support Charlie and his London Marathon team’s fundraising for Alzheimer’s Research UK, donate online at Team Quirke – Run for Pauline

This new period drama sees Jane Austen’s often overlooked heroine step out from the shadow of her four sisters. The Other Bennet Sister airs on BBC One in the UK with episodes available to stream for FREE on BBC iPlayer right now. It’s also streaming on Binge in Australia, and arrive on BritBox in North America in May. Don't worry if you’re away from home, because you can watch the The Other Bennet Sister from anywhere with a VPN.

Based on the novel of the same name by Janice Hadlow, The Other Bennet Sister follows Mary Bennet (Ella Bruccoleri), the seemingly unremarkable middle child of the Darcy-bothering family at the centre of Pride & Prejudice. Stepping out of the shadow of her siblings, Mary embarks on a journey that takes her from the peaks of the Lake District to the soirées of Regency London all while finding herself entangled in her own epic love story.

The show also features Ruth Jones and Richard E. Grant as Mary’s parents alongside Indira Varma, Richard Coyle, while Laurie Davidson and Dónal Finn appear as potential suitors for the wayward Bennet sister.

Arriving in 10, 30-minute episodes, The Other Bennet Sister is an easily bingeable watch for costume drama fans, offering a fresh take on a story that’s been adapted countless times.

Ready for this reimagining of Austen’s classic? Here's how to watch The Other Bennet Sister from anywhere in the world. We've got all the information you'll need below.

How to watch The Other Bennet Sister online in the UK for free

How to watch The Other Bennet Sister in the US

BritBox will be the North American home of The Other Bennet Sister with episodes streaming from Saturday, May 9.

BritBox costs $8.99 per month in the US with 12 months available for the price of 10 if you opt for an annual pass. New users can also make use of a 7-day free trial.

UK citizens abroad who want to access their usual free stream will need a VPN to watch The Other Bennet Sister. We've got all the details you need for that below.

How to watch The Other Bennet Sister in Australia

Aussies can stream The Other Bennet Sister on Binge. Episodes began streaming on March 16.

A subscription to Binge starts from AU$10 per month, with an annual price of AU$79.

UK viewers Down Under who want to watch via their usual free stream will need a VPN to watch The Other Bennet Sister. We've got all the details right here.

How to watch The Other Bennet Sister from anywhere with a VPN

If you're traveling outside the UK, you can watch The Other Bennet Sister on the BBC iPlayer streaming service by using a VPN – no matter where you are in the world!

Normally a streaming service will know where you are trying to tune in from and block you if you're not in the right country but a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an app that hides your location. That means you can access your usual sports and entertainment services even while you're traveling abroad.

Our favorite VPN is NordVPN, which is the No. 1-rated VPN in the world right now according to our sister site, TechRadar.

How to use a VPN to watch any stream

• Download the app at NordVPN
• Choose the location of the streaming service you want to watch – in this case, the UK
• Navigate to the streaming service and start watching!

After the sublime Detectorists, McKenzie Crook returns, once again mining humour from the mundane. The six-part series is available to stream in full on BBC iPlayer in the UK, but don’t worry if you’re away from home, because you can watch the Small Prophets from anywhere with a VPN.

The series follows Michael (Detectorists’ Pearce Quigley), whose girlfriend disappeared under mysterious circumstances seven years ago. With Michael still struggling to come to terms with the loss, his elderly father (Michael Palin) suggests he try some more out of the box methods in his search for answers, specifically, alchemy. Michael’s experiments soon lead to the creation of the titular supernatural creatures, who, it seems, can predict the future.

Critics and audiences alike have heaped praise on the latest from Crook (who also directs), with the show sitting at 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. In their five star review, The Guardian called it “a show full of gorgeous surprises,” while The Times praised its “joyous storytelling.”

Ready for another life-affirming tale from one of TV comedy’s best writers? Here's how to watch Small Prophets from anywhere in the world. We've got all the information you'll need below.

How to watch Small Prophets online in the UK for free

Can I watch Small Prophets in the US and Australia?

There's currently no word on an international release for Small Prophets. However, depending on your region, keep an eye on the likes of BritBox, PBS and Acorn TV, with those being the most likely home for this BBC comedy.

UK citizens abroad who want to access their usual free stream will need a VPN to watch Small Prophets. We've got all the details you need for that below.

How to watch Small Prophets from anywhere with a VPN

If you're traveling outside the UK, you can watch Small Prophets on the BBC iPlayer streaming service by using a VPN – no matter where you are in the world!

Normally a streaming service will know where you are trying to tune in from and block you if you're not in the right country but a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an app that hides your location. That means you can access your usual sports and entertainment services even while you're traveling abroad.

Our favorite VPN is NordVPN, which is the No. 1-rated VPN in the world right now according to our sister site, TechRadar.

How to use a VPN to watch any stream

• Download the app at NordVPN
• Choose the location of the streaming service you want to watch – in this case, the UK
• Navigate to the streaming service and start watching!

According to a recent report, the BBC reaches over 94% of UK adults a month: thrilling viewers with hits like Traitors and amazing free live sports. But if you want to watch BBC iPlayer abroad, you'll find it blocked. Well, here's a handy fix...

How to watch BBC online from abroad, and keep the Beeb firmly in your back pocket with a VPN.

Established over 100 years ago, the BBC is the world’s oldest and largest broadcaster. It operates a multitude of channels, among them flagship stations BBC One and BBC Two, and is responsible for bringing viewers a treasury of TV series old and new.

Its BBC iPlayer service offers 24/7 live streaming: providing news, sports, scripted drama, children’s programming and much more. And that’s alongside an extensive library of on-demand content.

You’ll find the most comprehensive collection of Doctor Who episodes here, the latest installments of long-running soap Eastenders, sporting highlights and Premier League coverage, in addition to critically acclaimed dramas like The Night Manager and reality TV hits Strictly Come Dancing and The Traitors.

But as BBC content is restricted to UK audiences, if you’re traveling – and just have to know who took home this year’s Glitterball Trophy – you’ll need to download a VPN to appear as if back home in Blighty.

Sign up below, it takes a few minutes and cost less than a coffee. You can then set your location to the UK on your phone/laptop/TV and browse British favorites from anywhere. Details below.

How to watch BBC iPlayer from abroad

If you're temporarily out of the country but looking to stream some top-notch BBC content, you'll likely to face some difficulty. Thankfully, you can solve this exact issue with a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

There are loads around but some are not trustworthy, and others are useless at unblocking streaming services like BBC iPlayer, Netflix, etc.

We know; we tested 'em. NordVPN (try risk free for 30 days) and Surfshark both work brilliantly, and are owned by independently-audited companies with a history of looking after customers' privacy.

Sign up to the VPN, download the app to your device, and choose 'UK' as your location (or any other country). This will magically unblock regional streaming services, including iPlayer, Channel 4, ITV, Netflix, Peacock and so on.

Whether you're on a Spanish villa break, a cruise to New York, exploring Canada or trekking the Inca Trail, NordVPN will put your devices right back in the UK! We use it every day and it works a treat.

BREAKING: NordVPN is sale on now! Grab over 70% off the best-value plans...

How to use a VPN to watch any stream

• Download the app at NordVPN
• Choose the location of the streaming service you want to watch (UK, US, etc)
• Navigate to the streaming service and start watching!

Joel Marshall's (played by Max Murray) misogynist views and bad behaviour have continued to intensify on EastEnders (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings).

Joel's dad Ross (Alex Walkinshaw) and his girlfriend, Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig), are struggling to handle the terrible teenager.

Since arriving in Albert Square earlier this year, Joel has assaulted a young woman on the Tube, made a secret sex video of him and teenager, Avani Nandra-Hart (Aaliyah James).

And started to corrupt school mate Tommy Moon (Sonny Kendall) by sharing explicit online videos and skipping school to go and watch online male influencer, Drake Zagan.

On tonight's episode of the BBC soap, Joel and Tommy are at the centre of an incident at Walford High School.

Ross and Vicki plus Tommy's parents, Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace) and Alfie Moon (Shane Richie) are shocked by the turn of events...

It kick starts a debate in Walford about the harmful impact of what teenagers are viewing online.

Kat, Alfie, Ross and Vicki attempt to educate Joel and Tommy about their behaviour.

But things escalate and take a dark turn...

Tonight's episode of the BBC soap will be followed by a spin-off documentary, EastEnders Investigates: The Manosphere.

" On the surface, it might look like Vicki is coping with the Joel situation but underneath she's really struggling," says Alice Haig who plays Vicki.

She doesn't feel that she has the authority to discipline Joel in the way she wants to. She loves Ross and wants to support him, but she's also scared of Joel and what he could be capable of..."

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

EastEnders Investigates: The Manosphere airs tonight at 8:00pm on BBC Three.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Suki Panesar (played by Balvinder Sopal) gets a harsh reminder that she's not exactly Mother Of The Year on EastEnders! (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings)

The rest of the family are not exactly impressed when they find out that Suki and her wife Eve (Heather Peace) are looking into adopting a baby.

Family members, including Suki's son Vinny (Shiv Jalota) and Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy) share their strong views and try to warn her off the idea!

Will Suki and Eve change their plans because of all the negative family feedback?

Joel Marshall's (Max Murray) misogynist views and bad behaviour continue.

After another argument between Joel and stepmum Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig), it becomes clear that she and partner Ross (Alex Walkinshaw) are still struggling to keep the terrible teenager in line...

Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) and Julie Haye (Karen Henthorn) encourage Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) to reach out to his son, Ben (Max Bowden) after what happened on the day of Jonno's funeral.

Harry Mitchell (Elijah Holloway) continues to try and avoid George Knight's (Colin Salmon) questions about his brother, Kojo (Dayo Koleosho).

But it's not long before Harry discovers that his mate Kojo is still unknowingly mixed-up with drug dealing "friend", Okie (Aayan Ibikunle Shoderu)...

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Callum Highway (played by Tony Clay) is reeling after coming face-to-face with his husband, Ben Mitchell (Max Bowden), on EastEnders! (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings)

Ben has been serving prison time in America.

So Callum is shocked when Ben makes an unexpected appearance at the funeral of Callum's dad, Jonno.

And things could get VERY awkward since Callum has invited his SECRET lover Johnny Carter (Charlie Suff) to the funeral...

Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) and his ex-wife, Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth), are naturally happy to see their son Ben back in Walford.

But the question is, will either Phil or Kathy tell Ben the truth about Callum cheating with Johnny while he has been behind bars?

George Knight (Colin Salmon) arrives home to check on his brother Kojo (Dayo Koleosho), following his collapse.

But Kojo becomes annoyed when protective George is too overbearing.

Meanwhile, Harry Mitchell (Elijah Holloway) has turned to his dad Teddy (Roland Manookian) for help over his involvement with drug dealing Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara).

Teddy comes up with a secret plan to catch Ravi and his associate, Okie (Aayan Ibikunle Shoderu), up to no good...

But when Teddy heads over to Kojo's flat, which Ravi and Okie have been using as a base for their illegal dealings, he risks being caught when Ravi and Okie unexpectedly return...

Elsewhere on Albert Square, Suki Panesar (Balvinder Sopal) wants to try and make amends with her estranged wife, Eve Unwin (Heather Peace).

But their reunion at The Albert gets off to a shaky start...

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Kathy Beale (played by Gillian Taylforth) rallies the Mitchell family to support her son-in-law, Callum Highway (Tony Clay), on the day of his dad Jonno's funeral on EastEnders (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for full listings)

However, she soon changes her tune when she sees Callum kissing SECRET lover, Johnny Carter (Charlie Suff)...

It's not long before Kathy and the Mitchell family confront Callum for cheating on husband, Ben (Max Bowden), who is currently serving prison time in the US.

But Callum hits back with some harsh home truths and decides to invite Johnny to the funeral.

As the guests gather, including Callum's brother Stuart (Ricky Champ), Callum is shocked by the unannounced return of Ben...

Harry Mitchell (Elijah Holloway) and his girlfriend, Gina Knight (Francesca Henry), return from their weekend away.

But Harry's romantic bubble is soon burst when he realises his best mate, Kojo Asare (Dayo Koleosho), is still mixed-up with drug dealing Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) and Tobias 'Okie' Okyere (Aayan Ibikunle Shoderu).

After failing to convince Ravi to back-off, Harry turns to his tough dad Teddy (Roland Manookian) for help...

Suki Panesar (Balvinder Sopal) attempts to build bridges with her family when they move back into No.41, following the sale of their previous home.

Avani Nandra-Hart (Aaliyah James) tries to convince Suki that it's time to make amends with her estranged wife, Eve (Heather Peace).

Will Eve agree to a drink with Suki after their bitter fallout?

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Have I Got News for You season 70 is back for an impressive landmark outing.

There’s something about a new series of HIGNFY that makes us feel everything is going to be okay with the world — or, at least, it will seem more amusing for 30 minutes.

With this new 10-part season the satirical show celebrates its 35th anniversary and 70th series in its traditional manner: guest hosts and panellists join (the true stars of the series) team captains Ian Hislop and Paul Merton.

Have I Got News for You Season 70 — release date

Have I Got News for You season 70 airs on Friday, October 3 2025, at 9 pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

The slightly longer version, Have I Got a Bit More News For You will air weekly on Monday nights (times vary - see our TV guide for details) and also be available on BBC iPlayer.

Here, Ian Hislop and comedian Paul Merton share their highlights and favourite memories from 35 years of filming…

Have I Got News for You season 70 — episodes

HIGNFY season 70 — episode 1

Airdate: Friday 03 October 2025, BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Guest presenter: Victoria Coren Mitchell

Guest panellists: Sheila Hancock and Miles Jupp

With its cartoon newspaper style opening credits, theme tune by Big George and revolving set panels - powered by a contraption involving of bicycle chains, apparently - Have I Got News for You has become a Friday night staple since its inaugural episode on 28th September 1990, featuring then-presenter Angus Deayton, team captains Ian Hislop and Paul Merton and the show’s first guest panellists, comedian Sandi Toksvig and journalist Kate Saunders.

After Deayton’s dismissal in 2002, the series employed a revolving door of high calibre star hosts, while Private Eye editor Hislop and comedian Merton cemented themselves as a rock solid double act with each passing biannual seasonal broadcast.

This week, the satirical current affairs show celebrates a double anniversary, as it reaches its 35th anniversary and launches its 70th series with Only Connect’s Victoria Coren Mitchell in the presenting hot seat - making this her 30th appearance on the programme and 22nd time in the host’s chair.

Future episodes

Keep an eye on BBC's HIGNFY page for information on upcoming shows and guest stars.

Many happy returns HIGNFY!

HIGNFY season 69 - complete guide

HIGNFY season 68 - complete guide

HIGNFY season 67 - complete guide

HIGNFY season 66 - complete guide

Waterloo Road season 16 is here - and the big news for the new series is that stand-up comedian Jon Richardson is joining the cast.

Here is everything you need to know about the show as a new term at Waterloo Road gets underway...

Waterloo Road release date

Waterloo Road season 16 opens its doors for a new term on Tuesday, 23 September, when eight brand-new episodes land on BBC iPlayer.

Those who want to watch the series terrestrially are in for a treat as, each Tuesday, two episodes will be shown on BBC1 at 9pm, then again at 10.40pm. That's Tuesday nights sorted!

Waterloo Road season 16 cast

The big news for Series 16 of Waterloo Road is that stand-up comedian Jon Richardson is joining the cast.

The star of Meet the Richardsons and 8 Out of 10 Cats had everyone stumped when he announced via his social media earlier this year that he’d be quitting comedy to become a teacher.

There was some truth to his April Fool’s Day prank, however, when the BBC later revealed Jon was going back to school as media studies teacher, Darius Donovan.

"I'd mentioned to producers that I'd found a genuine old diary entry where, aged 15, I’d written: 'I'd love to be a comedian, but I'll probably end up being a teacher' and that’s how that prank video came about,’ Jon, 42, tells What To Watch, who joins regular cast members Lindsey Coulson as head teacher Dame Stella Drake, Adam Thomas as caretaker turned PE teacher Donte Charles, with Jason Merrells back as show favourite Jack Rimmer, in his new position as school counsellor.

"My first day on set was the most scared I've been since I started doing stand-up - but Lindsey, Jason, Adam and others were so kind. What a privilege to be in that cast - it’s like warming up for five-a-side and getting straight into the England team!"

Alongside Jon, Waterloo Road's other new faces include Fintan Buckard and Savannah Kunyo will play Stella's grandchildren, Ben and Hope, while Christine Bottomley appears later in the run as their mum - and Stella's troubled daughter Sam Drake.

The Other One's Christopher Jeffers jumps on board as Mitch Swift, the new SenCo (Special Educational Needs Co-Ordinator) lead.

Which other show favourites are returning?

Returning staff include James Baxter as languages teacher Joe Casey, Jo Coffey as Stella's PA Wendy Whitwell, Kym Marsh as dinner lady Nicky Walters and Hollie-Jay Bowes as Nicky's sister Debs Rafferty.

They're joined once again by Neil Fitzmaurice as history teacher Neil Guthrie, Rachel Leskovac as English teacher turned deputy head Coral Walker, Shauna Shim as music teacher Valerie Chambers and Ryan Clayton as resident police sergeant - and Joe's husband - Mike Rutherford.

Back for another term of trials and tribulations are Liam Scholes as student Noel McManus, Tillie Amartey as Stace Neville alongside Summer Violet Bird as Tonya Walters, Thapelo Ray as Dwayne Jackson, Scarlet Thomas as Izzy Charles and Cory McClane as Ashton Stone.

Also back are Hattie Dynevor as Libby Guthrie, Lucy Chambers as Libby's sister Cat plus Zak Sutcliffe as reformed bad boy Schuey Weever and Niamh Blackshaw as Schuey's Christian girlfriend Agnes Eccleston.

What do we know about the plot for Series 16?

Well, it seems new boy Darius is marking his territory the minute he arrives at Waterloo Road.

"We first see Darius taking drugs in his car then walking into school - that tells you all you need to know about him as a person," explains Jon. "A womanising sociopath, Darius comes from a military background and sees Waterloo Road as somewhere to put roots down. Early on, however, he’s caught up in a dog-eat-dog scenario that could go one of two ways: either he loses his job or someone else does, so Darius does what he needs to do to survive - and doesn’t feel guilty about it."

Surely that kind of behaviour will come back to bite him?

"Darius always believes he’s just a good guy trying to make the best of bad situations," reveals Jon. "But, later, something truly awful happens - he makes a huge mistake and doesn’t mean for it to spiral as badly as it does. He’s then chasing his own tail, trying to cover it up. Darius is fun to play because he’s confrontational, direct, brave and bold - all things I don't think I am."

What's happening elsewhere?

Stella is distracted as she struggles to integrate her estranged grandkids, Ben and Hope, at the school. With their mother Sam still in hospital, Stella is under pressure to bring her A game at home and at school - but runs into problems when Hope makes a decision that has life-threatening consequences...

"As a grandmother myself, I know you must be extra vigilant when caring for somebody else’s child," says Lindsey Coulson, who plays Stella. "For Stella to know she hadn't been, isn’t a place you’d ever want to go to. Filming those scenes was emotional."

Meanwhile, Cat Guthrie and Izzy Charles lock horns over new boy Ben, as Schuey Weever and Agnes Eccleston cause uproar when they rebel against Stella’s 'inclusive' new rules. And as Jack Rimmer returns as School Counsellor, does he have what it takes to tackle the troubles of a new generation on his first day.

Does Jack form a friendship with new boy Darius?

Darius and Jack bond, yes, over their shared histories of dealing with addiction, as Jon explains...

"Jack has had his problems with addiction and has gone away and dealt with them, Darius feels he’s on top of his own demons, so sees Jack as a kindred spirit - but the pair eventually clash," he says.

"People might be able to understand Darius defending himself when backed into a corner - but what he does to Jack is unforgivable and they’ll begin to hope Darius gets a taste of his own medicine."

Is there a trailer for Series 16 of Waterloo Road?

There certainly is. Here's a teaser to whet your appetite...

Stacey Slater (played by Lacey Turner) has decided to stick around in Walford instead of leaving for a new life in Brazil on EastEnders (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings).

Stacey dropped her plans to go and live with her brother Sean in South America when her teenage daughter Lily (Lillia Turner) decided she wants to stay in E20 with young daughter, Charli.

But that might all change now that Stacey's ex-lover, Max Branning (Jake Wood), has returned to Walford...

Especially after Max follows Stacey home to No.31.

Is he hoping to revisit their romantic past?

Meanwhile, Stacey's mum Jean (Gillian Wright) is unaware of all the unfolding drama back on the Square.

Jean and Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy) are both stuck on the Tube.

Which leads to Jean having a panic attack...

Peter Beale (Thomas Law) is worried that it's only a matter of time before his mum Cindy (Michelle Collins) finds out that Max is back on Albert Square.

Remember when Cindy's son Steven died from his injuries after a violent confrontation with Max during a fire at Beales restaurant in 2017?

Cindy never got a chance to see justice served as she was living under witness protection in Spain at the time.

Will she finally get her wish after all these years, when she heads to the Vic to face the man who KILLED her son?

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Stacey Slater (played by Lacey Turner) never expected to see her ex-lover, Max Branning (Jake Wood), back in Walford on EastEnders (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings)

But here he is, causing a whole lot of DRAMA on daughter Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa) and Peter Beale's (Thomas Law) wedding day!

Everyone at the Vic is left reeling from Max's unexpected arrival.

Especially Stacey's cousin Zoe (Michelle Ryan), who still hasn't revealed the full truth about her past connection to Mr Branning...

Zoe's mum Kat (Jessie Wallace) warns her OFF from getting involved with the infamous womaniser.

However, it seems Max's attention is on Stacey, who he follows home to No.31...

"Seeing Max again gives Stacey the shock of her life," says Lacey Turner who plays the character. "She never expected to see him back in Walford. She knows full well that whenever he's around, there's trouble!"

Harry Mitchell (Elijah Holloway) has got back in his girlfriend Gina Knight's (Francesca Henry) good books after almost being a no-show for Lauren and Peter's wedding.

But the couple kiss and make-up and decide to book their first official weekend getaway together.

MEANWHILE, Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy) is already wondering just how committed Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) is to their relationship.

The ex-es recently decided to give things another go.

But when Ravi is kept busy with more of his dodgy dealings, Priya decides to spin a lie about her evening plans, in an attempt to make Ravi jealous!

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Lauren Branning (played by Jacqueline Jossa) is in a total spin following Peter Beale's (Thomas Law) SURPRISE wedding announcement on EastEnders! (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings).

Penny Branning (Kitty Castledine) senses her cousin Lauren is feeling overwhelmed.

Penny has already questioned whether Lauren and Peter's relationship is currently on shaky ground.

But Lauren insists she is fine and heads home to start getting ready for her BIG day.

But as Lauren and Peter prepare to get hitched in front of their family and friends, an unexpected guest arrives in the shape of the bride-to-be's dad, Max (Jake Wood)...

Will Max's return throw the couple's wedding plans into chaos?

Harry Mitchell (Elijah Holloway) turns to his mum Nicola (Laura Doddington) for help as his illegal drug dealing for Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) takes a dark turn.

Nicola fronts-up to Ravi and warns him to STOP manipulating her son... or else!

Will Ravi back-off and consider garage mechanic Harry's debt is finally settled?

PLUS, Jasmine (Indeyarna Donalson-Holness) discovers the reputation of the Slater family.

How will they react when The Albert's new bartender demands they pay for their drinks upfront?

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Lauren Branning (played by Jacqueline Jossa) wants more excitement in her relationship with Peter Beale (Thomas Law) on EastEnders (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings)

However, she is NOT expecting him to plan a SURPRISE wedding!

On today's episode of the BBC soap, Peter enlists the help of his family to pull-off his romantic plans.

Unaware of the wedding plans, Lauren's cousin Penny (Kitty Castledine) starts to sense that she may not be happy with the current state of her relationship...

But both Lauren and Penny are in for a SHOCK when they enter the Vic to meet Peter for a drink, where he gets down on bended knee and asks Lauren to marry him!

What will she say?

Stacey Slater's (Lacey Turner) BIG travel plans have run into trouble.

Stacey's teenage daughter, Lily (Lillia Turner), doesn't want to move to Brazil to live with Stacey's brother, Sean.

Lily wants to stay in Walford with her young daughter, Charli.

Will Stacey change her mind and stick around for Lily's sake?

Harry Mitchell (Elijah Holloway) is worried when he notices a gang watching Kojo Asare's (Dayo Koleosho) flat.

This is clearly connected to Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) and Okie (Aayan Ibikunle Shoderu) secretly using Kojo's place for their illegal drug dealing.

Things take a violent turn when Okie is found, having been beaten-up by the rival drugs gang!

Harry continues to struggle with his guilt over involving his mate Kojo in the increasingly dangerous goings-on...

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Anthony Horowitz, the man behind Foyle's War and Magpie Murders, has teased his big new BBC1 drama, Nine Bodies in a Mexican Morgue.

Horowitz has become well-known for creating hugely engaging television dramas packed with twists, and he promises there's more of the same in the thriller set on a plane.

The plot sees a light aircraft carrying 10 passengers crash in the Mexican jungle — and nine of them survive. But when the remaining passengers start dying, they realise that someone wants them dead.

Horowitz says: "It often occurred to me that an airplane is a very interesting environment for a murder mystery. When you're sitting on a plane you could well find yourself next to a complete stranger for five, ten or fifteen hours. He or she may seem charming: a doctor, an entrepreneur, a teacher… or a murderer.

"And now let's imagine that the plane crashes into the jungle and you manage to survive. Suddenly your relationship with the other passengers becomes even more critical. You're in a completely hostile environment. You don’t have very much food or water. Everything is against you. And then, suddenly you realise that one of those complete strangers is a psychopathic killer. What do you do next? That was the start of the idea."

The six-part story, starting on BBC1 this Saturday and also available via BBC iPlayer, is told in flashback as the survivors fight against the heat, a shortage of supplies, and each other.

The setting becomes increasingly tense and claustrophobic until finally the identity of the killer and the truth are revealed.

Eric McCormack, David Ajala, Lydia Wilson, Jan Le, Adam Long, Siobhán McSweeney, Peter Gadiot, and Ólafur Dario Ólafsson are among the cast.

Talking about creating the characters, he continues: "Everyone had to have a story but I wanted to avoid anything that was too obvious.

"I think Lisa and Travis were the first to arrive. Everyone is talking about MAGA right now, often in a negative way so I decided to create two MAGA supporters who were actually sympathetic. I wanted one English character on board, so I created Sonja, the photographer working in charity, helping people trying to cross the border. Divisive politics and immigration are topics that are really relevant internationally right now."

He adds: "Everyone has a story to tell. Everyone has a secret to hide. That's how it works."

Meanwhile, the BBC is also making Marble Hall Murders, the third and final installment in Horowitz's murder mystery series, which started with Magpie Murders.

Lesley Manville will return as book editor turned sleuth Susan Ryeland.

Nine Bodies in a Mexican Morgue. begins on Saturday, September 27, on BBC1 at 9.25 pm (see our TV Guide for full listings).

Celebrity Race Across the World is about to return with four new celebrity duos heading on an adventure of a lifetime

The last series was an absolute cracker, and we particularly enjoyed watching Radio DJ Kelly Brook and her ultra-competitive husband Jeremy lovingly bicker throughout the whole journey. She wanted to see the sights, and he wanted to win by going on as many overnight buses as possible. They ended up coming last, so perhaps they should have just spent more time enjoying the fabulous locations!

This time, the celebs are heading to the Caribbean and the Pacific coast of Central America.

Here's everything we know, including who's taking part and their route…

Celebrity Race Across the World 2025 release date

Celebrity Race Across the World starts on BBC1 and BBC iPlayer from Thursday, November 6 at 8pm. See our TV Guide for full listings.

Celebrity Race Across the World line-up

The four celebrity duos embarking on the ultimate adventure are: Broadcaster and writer Anita Rani and her dad, Bal; Beyond Paradise actor Dylan Llewellyn and his mum, Jackie; partners, presenter and DJ Tyler West and actor and singer, Molly Rainford; broadcaster Roman Kemp and his sister, singer-songwriter, Harleymoon.

As normal, the celebs will have to survive without their bank cards and smartphones. Instead, they will have to struggle with local transport and limited budgets.

Route

The journey begins on the idyllic and tiny Caribbean island of Isla Mujeres, just off the easternmost point of Mexico. There are stunning beaches and amazing snorkelling opportunities, but the celebs won't have time for that as they're challenged to race 5,900km to reach the finish line in the remote and breathtaking Península de La Guajira in Colombia — the gateway to South America.

Catherine Catton, Head of Commissioning, Factual Entertainment and Events, says: "Celebrity Race Across the World is always a highlight of the year, and we are really looking forward to setting off with a new group of famous faces and their loved ones on an incredible journey full of twists and turns."

Is there a trailer?

No, not yet.

Cosy crime drama Sister Boniface Mysteries is back for fourth season with Lorna Watson reprising her role as the scooter-riding crime-solving nun who knows her way around a Bunsen burner and this time there are eight new mysteries to solve in the picturesque Cotswolds village of Great Slaughter.

Once again, the bespectacled wimple-wearing sleuth, who has her own forensics lab at St Vincent’s Convent, will be assisting DI Sam Gillespie (Max Brown) and DS Felix Livingstone (Jerry Iwu), along with WPC Peggy Button (Ami Metcalf), as they face more baffling murder cases in this new run of the Father Brown spin-off.

Sister Boniface Mysteries season 4 release date

The UK premiere of the eight-part series was on U&Drama on Friday, September 26 at 9 pm. New episodes will air in the same place on a weekly basis, but you'll also be able to stream all episodes of Sister Boniface Mysteries season 4 on U.

Sister Boniface Mysteries season 4 began streaming on BritBox in the US on August 19, 2024.

Sister Boniface Mysteries season 4 cast

Lorna Watson as Sister Boniface

Lorna plays the forensic-scientist Catholic nun who is a big fan of Agatha Christie, rides about in a motorbike-and-sidecar combination and has a host of other talents that come in handy while solving mysteries in Great Slaughter.

Comedian and actor Lorna Watson first played the forensic-scientist nun in the first series of Father Brown in 2013. She appeared in the second episode of the 10-part run, "The Bride of Christ", which saw her help the sleuthing priest as he investigated the murder of two nuns.

From 2012 to 2013, Lorna and her comedy partner Ingrid Oliver appeared in the sketch show Watson & Oliver on BBC2. They co-wrote the series with Black Books writer Kevin Cecil and comedian and actor Alex Lowe, best known for his comedy character, medium Clinton Baptiste, who first appeared in Phoenix Nights.

Lorna has also appeared in Lead Balloon, Horrible Histories, The IT Crowd, The Catherine Tate Show and Shakespeare & Hathaway: Private Investigators.

Max Brown as DI Sam Gillespie

Max plays the detective inspector who has an eye for the ladies – especially journalist Ruth Penny – and relies on Sister Boniface to help him crack cases.

Max made his television debut in 2001, playing heart-throb Danny Hartston in long-running children’s drama Grange Hill.

He went on to have roles in Crossroads, Hollyoaks, Doctors, Casualty, Mistresses, Spooks, Foyle’s War and The Tudors.

In the first Downton Abbey film (2019), he played Richard Ellis, the valet of King George V, who came to stay at the stately home with his wife Queen Mary. Richard was a romantic interest for butler Thomas Barrow.

Jerry Iwu as DS Felix Livingstone

Jerry plays the detective sergeant who travelled from his home country Bermuda to join Scotland Yard in London, but found himself in Great Slaughter by mistake. Initially, he planned to leave as soon as he could, but later couldn’t bring himself to leave the Cotswolds village and its oddball residents.

Jerry’s previous TV credits include 5’s police procedural drama Intruder, ITV1 crime drama Innocent and Netflix hit Sex Education.

He also appeared in the 2017 film Halal Daddy.

Ami Metcalf as WPC Peggy Button

Ami plays woman police constable Peggy Button, who’s often referred to as the best WPC in the county - although the jury’s out if there are any other WPCs in Gloucestershire! She often has to fend off the amorous attentions of her former classmate Norman Whalley, who now works as a news reporter at The Albion Bugle.

Ami rose to fame as Sapphire Cox in BBC1’s long-running soap Doctors and won the Best Dramatic Performance from a Young Actor or Actress at the 2010 British Soap Awards.

She’s also appeared in Bad Education, Call the Midwife, Silent Witness, Father Brown and Birds of a Feather.

Sister Boniface Mysteries season 4 – Other returning cast

The main cast will be joined by the regular supporting cast, which includes Robert Dawes as Chief Constable Lowsley, David Sterne as the indecipherable Tom Thomas, Belinda Lang as B&B owner Mrs Vera Clam, Sarah Crowden as the dotty Miss Dotty Thimble, Jack Gouldbourne as Norman Walley, reporter for local newspaper The Albion Bugle, and Olivia Lovibond as journalist Ruth Penny.

Meanwhile, at St Vincent’s Convent, Carolyn Pickles returns as Reverend Mother Adrian, alongside Virginia Fiol as Sister Reg and Tina Chiang as Sister Peter.

Sister Boniface Mysteries season 4 guest stars

The first episode of the series features former Doctors star Elisabeth Dermott Walsh in a dual role as very different twin sisters, while Dan Skinner, best known for his comedy character Angelos Epithemiou, and Nathan McMullen (Misfits) play American actors Walt North and Brett Hyde, who are the leads in Batman-style show, Foxman.

Later in the series look out for Rab C Nesbitt and Two Doors Down star Elaine C Smith as Mrs Clam’s fun-loving sister Jeanie and former Holby City star Bob Barrett, who played Sacha Levy in the long-running medical drama.

Also guest-starring are, Tony Gardner (Last Tango in Halifax, My Parents Are Aliens), Gordon Kennedy (Absolutely, Robin Hood), Hotel Portofino’s Oliver Dench, Joe Tracini, who’s best known for his role as Dennis Savage in Hollyoaks, and Emily Joyce, who starred in superhero comedy My Hero, which ran for six seasons from 2000 to 2006.

Is there a trailer?

There isn't a trailer for Sister Boniface Mysteries season 4 yet, but we will post it here when there is.

Sister Boniface Mysteries season 4 episodes

During this fourth season of Sister Boniface Mysteries, a bucking bronco goes haywire on the set of a game show, a killer scarecrow stalks the streets of Great Slaughter and the diva co-star on American action series Foxman plummets to her death in a stunt gone wrong. Meanwhile, Reverend Mother Adrian is hiding a secret about the future of St Vincent’s Convent and CC Lowsley arranges a team-building exercise… Here’s more about the eight-part series.

EPISODE 1 – BIFF! POW! ZAP!

American TV show Foxman is filming its series finale at Lord Matthew Sedgewick’s (Sam Alexander) stately home. Walt North (Dan Skinner) plays Foxman, but he is less than gracious to Brett Hyde (Nathan McMullen), who plays sidekick Beaver, frequently upstaging him. To make matters worse, dedicated producer/director Hank Sawyer (David Bedella) has hired the biggest diva in England to play the Minx, Camilla Cattermole (Elisabeth Dermot Walsh). Camilla is instantly attracted to Sam (Max Brown), but he is drawn to her long-suffering twin sister and stunt double, Jane (also played by Elisabeth Dermot Walsh).

Later, when Camilla insists on doing a stunt on a zipline, the rope snaps and she plummets to her death. Swooping in to investigate, Sister Boniface discovers it was an act of sabotage. By why, and by whom?

EPISODE 2 – A MURDER OF CROWS

It’s the annual Scarecrow Festival in Great Slaughter and the locals proudly display their scarecrows hoping for a chance at nabbing the £500 cash prize.

Martin Hubbard (Tony Gardner) is the favourite to win the annual Scarecrow Festival with his effigy of Winston Churchill and will stop at nothing to come out on top.

Later, however, he’s found dead with a mouth stuffed with straw!

As Sister Boniface and Sam investigate, their main lead is Miss Dotty Thimble, who claims a scarecrow killed Martin.

She may be Dotty by name and dotty by nature, but could Miss Thimble be right? Especially after intrepid reporter Norman Whalley also spots a scarecrow seemingly coming to life.

Is there really a killer scarecrow on the loose in Great Slaughter?

EPISODE 3 – ARE YE DANCIN’?

Mrs Clam’s (Belinda Lang) sister Jeanie McIntyre (Elaine C Smith) returns to Great Slaughter after decades living in Scotland. She’s planned a surprise birthday ceilidh for Mrs Clam and has travelled down with jovial husband Angus (Gordon Kennedy) and their musician son Callum (Calum Gulvin).

They are joined by the rest of the ceilidh band; the severe John Adams (John Mackay) and his children, Jimmy (Joseph Prowen) and Maggie (Alyth Ross).

After John forbids the siblings from going out for the evening, they sneak out to the pub for a sing-song, but their furious dad soon storms in and drags them away in front of the other punters.

The next morning, John’s body is found slain under the cake table in the village hall…

With a list of suspects, including Angus, Callum, Jimmy and Maggie, to get through, can Sister Boniface locate the murder weapon and identify the killer?

EPISODE 4 – KILLER HEELS

As the launch of Groovy Shoo’s fashionable new go-go boot approaches, the women working in the factory are informed they must work longer hours by tight-fisted owner Arthur Millington (Peter Wight).

Union leader Bernice McDowell (Dani Moseley) complains that they should be paid overtime, but her hard-up friend Daisy Dunn (Amy Murphy) doesn’t want to rock the boat.

When Arthur is later found dead on his office floor, Sister Boniface smells bitter almonds and deduces that he was poisoned!

As the women’s pay dispute leads to a strike, Sister Boniface is hot on the heels of a killer as she must navigate the picket line while trying to find out who murdered Arthur…

EPISODE 5 – LET THE GAMES BEGIN

Game show Let The Games Begin is filming in Great Slaughter and CC Lowsley has his eyes on the cash prize to raise funds for the retired police dog charity.

As Lowsley pairs up with Mrs Clam, Felix teams up with spiky aspiring actress Denise (Keturah Chambers) and Norman forms the third duo with Miss Thimble.

Turns out the show’s host Freddie Fuller (Jonny Weldon) isn’t as charming as he is on TV, especially to his PA Malcolm Everett (Joe Tracini) and glamourous assistant Angela Ainsworth (Hayley Johnston). And when Freddie announces that the show is moving to the USA, producer Giles Penistone (Bob Barrett) is fuming.

When a Bucking Bronco goes out of control on the set of the popular game show, Sister Boniface finds herself investigating a murder that was intended for Freddie…

With Freddie having narrowly avoided death, can our sleuth find the killer before they strike again?

EPISODE 6 – THERE’S NO ‘I’ IN SLAUGHTER

Sam, Felix and Peggy aren’t exactly cock-a-hoop when they find themselves spending a weekend at an old army base,

It’s been organised by CC Lowsley with ex-cop Len Shepherd (Phil Cornwell) leading them in a series of team-building exercises.

Great Slaughter’s cops will be competing against their Stowington Police rivals, with Lowsley’s enemy, CC Horace Winthrop (Mark McDonnell), leading the team, who he frequently undermines. And it soon becomes clear he has beef with Len, too.

When Winthrop is later found dead, it looks like his death was an accident, but Sister Boniface soon finds evidence to the contrary…

EPISODE 7 – THE HAPPIEST FAMILY

Reverend Mother Adrian surprises the sisters with a wholesome weekend away. However, they soon encounter a group of naked hedonists frolicking in the swimming pool!

The house where they are staying has been double-booked with Charity Gray (Genesis Lynea) having booked her stay to celebrate her birthday with inventor Miles Fletcher (Oliver Dench), hairdresser Vivian Ashbrook (Sophie Ablett) and Dr Saatvik Bose (Jaz Singh Deol).

Surprisingly, the Reverend Mother claims there is room for all and they should continue with their plans.

Sister Reg knows Charity from her pre-nun life in Soho, and she’s not best pleased when her former acquaintance teases her about her past indiscretions.

The next day, when Charity is found dead in her bed, the evidence stacks up against Sister Reg…

Can Sister Boniface clear her fellow nun's name and find the real killer?

EPISODE 8 – AND THEN THERE WERE NUN

It looks like the end of an era for the nuns of St Vincent’s, when Reverend Mother Adrian and Lord Matthew Sedgewick hand over the keys to property developer Ronny Panesar (Alistair Toovey).

As town councillor Lynn Goodwin (Emily Joyce) reveals the model for the new housing development to Ruth Penny, Sam is devastated that this will mean parting company with Sister Boniface.

Meanwhile, Sister Boniface’s heroine, archaeologist Sister Helena (Rachel Bell), wants to document the chapel before the historic interior is ripped out, but a row breaks out between her and Lynn and Ronny, and a few hours later the sister is found bludgeoned to death in the chapel.

Can Sister Boniface catch the killer before the nuns are forced to leave Great Slaughter for good?

Q&A with Lorna Watson, who plays Sister Boniface

Hi Lorna, so you’re back as Sister Boniface, in her habit and wimple…

"Yes. I love the costume. You transform as soon as you put it on. It just changes the way you move and it changes the way you listen because everything's a bit muffled under the wimple. You get used to it but when you take it off at the end of the day, it's like hatching out of an egg. Suddenly you can hear and the world is different! I'm still getting rid of the tan line from the wimple. Even if you wear sun cream, you still get an embarrassing 'nun tan line' on your face! It's not the best, but my hair covers it, which is great."

What can you tell us about the fourth series?

"A lot happens in this series. I'm always amazed by what the writers come up with next. An overarching theme of the series is that all is not what it seems at the convent. There is this slight panic for the Reverend Mother, who goes on quite a journey in this series because it looks like we may lose the convent. She's trying to keep things running smoothly and keep a tight ship, but the nuns are none the wiser up until a certain point. ‘Nun the wiser!’ Ha!"

What can you tell us about some of the mysteries that Sister Boniface is faced with this time around?

"There’s such a diverse range of stories. Opening the series, we have this sort of homage to the 1960s Batman show called Foxman. It’s called Biff! Pow! Zap! It’s about this American series, Foxman, that is shooting its series finale at this stately home in the Cotswolds. And there's a murder, naturally, or we wouldn't bother turning up! We had so much fun filming that episode. Dan Skinner and Nathan McMullen star as the actors Walt North and Brett Hyde, who play Foxman and his sidekick Beaver, and they played those characters so brilliantly. Elisabeth Dermot Walsh [who played Zara in Doctors] plays twins in that episode, too. I don’t know how she did it. It was extraordinary. But yeah, so we had a lot of fun. It was so much fun."

Tell us about some of the other episodes…

"We also have Mrs Clam’s surprise birthday with [Two Doors Down star] Elaine C Smith playing her sister. Then there’s a game show episode where Miss Thimble, Norman Whalley, Mrs Clam and CC Lousey all have to team together, and they have to do various silly things like dancing the tango and so on. Obviously, there’s another murder. Also, the nuns leave the convent. Reverend Mother Adrian's feeling so guilty about everything that's going on, she decides to treat them to a trip. Basically, they arrive at this lovely retreat, only to find it's been double booked, and they have spend their weekend there with these people who are a bunch of people that the nuns wouldn't normally hang out with, let's just say. The nuns end up in a swimming pool at the end, which is something I never thought I’d see on this show!

"There’s also a really lovely episode where the female workers in this boot factory are sick and tired of not having equal pay and the same rights as their male counterparts. They stage a strike, and Mrs Clam gets very vocal on the loud hailer, which is just brilliant!"

Sister Boniface is often seen drifting into a daydream or a trance. Are there more of those moments in this series?

"Yes, those bits are really fun and quirky, and really quite unique. I don't know any other show that does that. But it is a fun way of showing the audience where Sister Boniface’s brain is going, and it’s nice to see it broken down in layman's terms, with visuals to back it up. It’s a good way of showing how she's linking thoughts, linking clues and so on. We don't get an insight into her brain otherwise and it’s nice to show that in a lighthearted way. It’s a little bit of light relief, a bit of silliness. We always enjoy doing them, that's for sure, and just when you think they couldn't get any dafter, they do!"

Talking of silliness, in the first episode, Sister Boniface describes Foxman as a slice of silliness. Do you think that’s a good way of describing Sister Boniface Mysteries as well?

"Yes it does. I'm a big fan of silly. My whole career has been a bit silly, really. And I like the fact that there are contrasts in the show. There are really tender moments, there are dramatic moments, there are edge of your seat moments and there are serious moments. And to sandwich those moments with a slice of silly I think is good for the show. It's nice for the audience, and I think it also is what helps this show have that more palatable. It is about murder at the end of the day!"

You were just talking about ‘tender moments’ and in the first episode there’s a lovely moment where Sister Boniface voices what Sam means to her…

"I really loved that. And there is another tender moment between Sam and Sister Boniface later in the series, too. Until now, they have this unexpected but lovely working relationship and friendship. It's really nice to explore what they mean to each other. They're not usually very demonstrative, but they definitely have each other's backs. He’s very protective of her, and she looks out for him. To have an episode where they put it into words is very lovely to see and certainly lovely to play. We both enjoyed exploring that. I hope I wasn't too snotty nosed!"

A running joke of the series is Miss Thimble and her horrendous culinary creations. And she's at it again with more bizarre fare, including a three-tier birthday cake with a layer of liver and onion meatloaf! Has anyone ever been tempted to sample her wares?

"I seem to recall a Thimble spread of strange delicacies in the first episode. There was all sorts going on. Never at any point did I feel tempted to try any. But it is a running joke that I love and I’m always intrigued to see what they come up with. I don’t think they are safe for human consumption."

Tell us about filming the series in the Cotswolds. You must miss it when you're not there?

"It's really magical and I think, because we're four seasons in now, we are like a massive family and it’s a big old reunion every year. Everyone knows each other very well now, cast and crew. It's a really lovely working environment. I mean the guest cast often comment on it actually. They say how friendly, warm, funny, fun it is to work on the show. And that backdrop, it just never gets old. It's so beautiful there. We do work long hours, but who cares? You're in the Cotswolds, in the sunshine and it’s lovely. I can't complain. I feel very lucky."

Is Stacey Slater (played by Lacey Turner) starting to reconsider her future in Walford on EastEnders? (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings)

After receiving an invite from her brother Sean in Brazil, Stacey goes ahead and books flights for her and teenage daughter Lily (Lillia Turner) to join him in South America.

But Stacey's BIG news gets a mixed reaction from others.

Stacey's mum Jean (Gillian Wright) is secretly hurt that they are making plans to leave.

While Lily wonders how Ricky Branning (Frankie Day) will react to the news of her departure, considering the teenagers have a baby daughter Charli together...

In a surprise turn of events, Lauren Branning (Jacquline Jossa) wants to meet the MYSTERY mum Demi (Lucy Edington-Brown), who has befriended her fiance, Peter Beale (Thomas Law).

Peter is both surprised and alarmed when he finds Lauren, her cousin Penny (Kitty Castledine) and Demi having a laugh together in Bridge Street Cafe!

After discovering that Lauren is bored and wants more excitement in their relationship, Peter starts to make a plan...

ELSEWHERE, Oscar Branning (Pierre Moullier) wastes no time in asking Jasmine (Indeyarna Donaldson-Holness) out on a date!

But Jasmine's new boss, Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins), once again warns her to steer clear of the troublesome Branning.

Will Jasmine take Cindy's advice and reject Oscar?

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Sharon Watts (played by Letitia Dean) is in a spin after Zoe Slater's (Michelle Ryan) startling revelation on EastEnders (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings).

Tempers flare at the Vic and landlady Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace) chucks both Sharon and her sister Vicki (Alice Haig) out of the pub!

Sharon is unsure what to believe.

Is Zoe telling the truth?

Meanwhile, Kat challenges daughter Zoe about WHAT she has revealed.

After all, Zoe hasn't exactly been forthcoming about filling in the blanks about what has been going on in her life over the past 20 years.

Could Zoe's revelation have anything to do with the teenage son she gave up for adoption?

Penny Branning (Kitty Castledine) confronts Peter Beale (Thomas Law) over his SECRET date with another woman, Demi (Lucy Edington-Brown), at the Vic.

However, before Peter gets the chance to come clean, his fiancee, Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa), finds a flirty message from Demi on his phone...

At The Albert, Jasmine (Indeyarna Donaldson-Holness) makes a good impression on boss Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins).

Jasmine also makes an impression on Oscar Branning (Pierre Moullier).

But Cindy has some words of warning for Jasmine about the troublesome lad!

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Vicki Fowler (played by Alice Haig) is happy to have her older sister Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) home again on EastEnders (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings).

However, it's not long before the sisters clash over Vicki's unpaid debt.

Vicki and her partner, Ross Marshall (Alex Walkinshaw), owe Sharon a considerable amount of money after she helped them settle a debt caused by Ross's teenage son, Joel (Max Murray).

After getting into an argument with Sharon over the unpaid money, Vicki storms out of the house and gets into a fight with Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan)!

Sharon still has her own score to settle with Zoe after all these years.

But she is stopped in her tracks when Zoe drops a SHOCK bombshell revelation...

Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) is impressed by a sparky girl called Jasmine (Indeyarna Donaldson-Holness, from the Sky TV drama series, Save Me) who comes looking for a job at The Albert.

However, it's not long before both Cindy and Jasmine manage to get on the WRONG side of Jean Slater (Gillian Wright)...

ELSEWHERE, Peter Beale (Thomas Law) goes for a drink with Demi (Lucy Edington-Brown).

But he could be in trouble when Penny Branning (Kitty Castledine) sees them together...

Will Penny tell her cousin/Peter's fiancee, Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa), what he is up to?

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Sharon Watts (played by Letitia Dean) returns to Albert Square on EastEnders (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings)

Sharon made a sudden departure from Walford earlier this year, following the funeral of Martin Fowler.

She has since been staying with her long-time friend, Michelle Fowler, in Australia.

But when Sharon steps foot back on the Square on today's episode of the BBC soap, she is shocked to see Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan)...

Sharon still blames Zoe for her part in causing the death of her dad Den in the Vic 20 years ago.

So she wastes no time in confronting Zoe...

MEANWHILE, the Slater family is still in shock after their ordeal at the Vic.

Kat (Jessie Wallace), her husband Alfie (Shane Richie) and family relative Stacey (Lacey Turner) all remain suspicious as Zoe continues to avoid questions about her past.

Will the truth soon come to light about the connection between Zoe and Max Branning (Jake Wood)?

Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) causes tension between her son Peter (Thomas Law) and his fiancee, Lauren Branning (Jaqueline Jossa), when she moves into No.25.

Peter befriends a young mum Demi (Lucy Edington-Brown) at baby Jimmy's sensory class.

But it's clear that Demi fancies Peter!

PLUS, Howie Danes (Delroy Atkinson) continues to worry about cash, after his social media influencer girlfriend Kim Fox (Tameka Empson) accidentally destroys her camera equipment.

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Here's our TV tonight picks for Sunday, September 14.

For more information about what's on TV, see our TV Guide and check out TV Times Magazine for exclusive chats and features!

Coldwater, ITV1, 9 pm

Andrew Lincoln spent more than a decade playing a hero in hit US zombie drama The Walking Dead, but he’s more wet blanket than warrior in this intense potboiler. The six-parter tells the tale of John, a weak-willed stay-at-home dad who falls into the clutches of a man with some dark secrets when he moves with his wife and kids from London to the Scottish backwater of Coldwater, with Lincoln happily throwing himself under a bus as an unravelling lead. Yet it’s Ewen Bremner and Eve Myles who steal the show as his unsettling neighbours Tommy and Rebecca, the town’s malevolent power couple. Continues tomorrow and is available as a box set on ITVX now.

Rob and Rylan's Passage to India, BBC2, 9 pm

Watching Rylan Clark and Rob Rinder open their hearts and surround themselves in Italian culture in last year’s Rob and Rylan’s Grand Tour was unexpectedly affecting. This three-part follow-up, inspired by EM Forster’s 1924 novel A Passage to India, finds them in very different surroundings, but their odd-couple chemistry is still absolute dynamite, and their excitement and appreciation for the art they explore is palpable. Tonight’s clear highlight is the scene where they write and perform their own raps for a slightly bemused audience in a Delhi marketplace – maybe this time they’ll get a BRIT Award to go with their BAFTA! Also available as a box set on BBC iPlayer now.

Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams… Ultimate Test, BBC1, 8.15 pm

The former England captain’s aim to turn cricket in this country from a pursuit of the privileged elite into a true game for the masses is an admirable one – and the success of Field of Dreams’ first two series suggests he’s on to something. But his new plan to start a grassroots league for young players is bringing fresh challenges. Central to the project are his new teams, but as the girls in Blackpool and boys in Bootle experience their own teething troubles, Freddie takes on the task of forming a third. Or, more accurately, rescuing historic Manchester club Newton Heath, which is on the brink of extinction and hasn’t had a kids’ team since the early noughties. Has he finally met his match?

M&S: Dress the Nation, ITV1, 6.55 pm

Vernon Kay and AJ Odudu are back to host a second series of the contest, offering amateur designers the chance to win a mentorship at high-street favourite M&S and have their designs sold in store. The nine hopefuls begin with a focus on womenswear, and their efforts are judged by M&S Director of Womenswear Maddy Evans, guest Jade Jagger and, importantly, store customers themselves. Series 1 winner David Olaniyi’s limited collection of occasionwear was launched in October 2024, proving dreams do come materially true with this show.

Here's our TV tonight picks for Saturday, September 13.

For more information about what's on TV, see our TV Guide and check out TV Times Magazine for exclusive chats and features!

Casualty, BBC1, 8.10 pm

This visit to Holby – the penultimate episode in the Supply and Demand 12-part run – opens with an armed response to a shooting, as the drama is dialled up in anticipation to next week’s unmissable finale. Here, Sunny is gunned down in Holby Crown Court and raced to the ED under armed guard, where Rash tries to save his ex in more ways than one... Meanwhile, Iain’s behaviour towards Faith becomes increasingly unsettling. Not only is he giving his wife the silent treatment but he’s opening up to Stevie (Elinor Lawless). Yep, Faith’s best friend, Stevie. The bridesmaid who kissed Iain at his wedding, Stevie. What could possibly go wrong, Stevie?

Last Night of the Proms, BBC2, 6.55 pm

The traditional closing night of the Proms season from London’s Royal Albert Hall will feature many of the pieces we’ve come to expect, such as Fantasia on British Sea-Songs, Rule, Britannia! and Jerusalem. Alongside those, there’s a varied programme including music from Franz Lehár’s operetta The Merry Widow, Paul Dukas’ The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (used in the Disney film Fantasia) and Modest Mussorgsky’s A Night on the Bare Mountain. Tonight will be notable as the final performance by trumpeter Alison Balsom – she’ll play Hummel’s Trumpet Concerto in E flat major – before she retires to spend more time with her family.

The Hit List, BBC1, 5.40 pm

Marvin and Rochelle Humes host a famous family special of the music quiz. Actor Kola Bokinni and his sister DJ Yinka Bokinni, Outnumbered siblings Tyger Drew-Honey and Ramona Marquez, and Stacey Dooley and her partner, actor and dancer Kevin Clifton, compete to name as many songs and artists as possible, with the best pair playing for up to £10,000 in the final round.

The Royal Rich List, Five, 7.30 pm

We don’t need to be told that the Royal Family is incredibly rich and has billions of pounds’ worth of assets – these are people who have spent their lives in palaces, have crown jewels and can travel in an actual gold coach (OK, it’s not real gold, but it’s worth around £2 million). This feature-length documentary gets down to the nitty-gritty a bit more than the average Saturday-night royal content on 5, as it hears from royal commentators and financial experts on who owns what in one of the world’s richest families.

The new series of Beyond Paradise, airing next year, will feature Morris dancers and dragons, the show's makers have teased.

Beyond Paradise season 4, which again stars Kris Marshall as DI Humphrey Goodman, is currently shooting in the fishing village of Looe in Cornwall, which doubles for Shipton Abbott.

The show's executive producer, Tim Key, explains that they are told stories and legends about the area, which they like to include in the plots.

Talking on BBC’s Morning Live, Tim said: "We are filming one at the moment set around the Morris Dancing world and the legend of the Knucker Hole dragon, which is a real thing.

"We've done things before, the Devil on the Rocks, which is a sort of sea-faring legend."

The Knucker Hole dragon legend dates back hundreds of years and involves a dragon known as the Knucker living in a bottomless pit and terrorising unfortunate victims. We're sure Humphrey will come up with a more rational explanation about what’s happening in Shipton Abbott!

Meanwhile, Kris Marshall teased a bit about the new series: “We are welcoming back a very well-loved character from season 1, and we’re doing some scenes with him today.”

Asked what he enjoys about making the Death in Paradise spin-off, Kris commented that he loves the fact that he gets to surf before filming every morning. “I should add the scripts are great and I love coming to work and doing this wonderful job,” he said.

Kris Marshall and Sally Bretton star again in the new series. Also in the cast are Zahra Ahmadi (The Bay, Tracey Ullman's Show, EastEnders) as DS Esther Williams, Dylan Llewellyn (Big Boys, Derry Girls) as PC Kelby Hartford and Felicity Montagu (This Time with Alan Partridge, Landscapers, Vanity Fair) playing office support civilian, Margo Martins.

Beyond Paradise season 4 will air on BBC1 in early 2026.

Daisy May Cooper and her brother Charlie, who shot to fame in This Country, will investigate the paranormal in a new BBC2 show.

Daisy May and Charlie Cooper’s NightWatch will see the pair locked together in some of Britain's most haunted places.

They said: "We've both had a brush with the paranormal, and really do love the concept of life after death, so we thought this could be the perfect way to prove to the world that we’re not delusional. It will be a miracle if we both come out alive and well."

The series will open at HM Prison Gloucester, which is close to their hometown. The prison was shut down long ago, but the pair will be locked together in a small cell as they pray not to be visited by the ghosts of ex-convicts!

Nightwatch certainly seems to have a similar vibe to Yvette Fielding's classic long-running paranormal series, Most Haunted.

Daisy apparently has a "spooky briefcase" full of the latest paranormal detecting wizardry to see if there are any ghosts about.

The BBC teases that the pair will also explore "a historic castle in Northumberland, an old pub frequented by highwaymen in Cannock Chase, bat-infested ruins in Herefordshire, a creepy cinema in York and an isolated bothy in the remote Scottish Highlands”.

Obviously, spending so much time together locked up, the pair will also get a chance to talk about their own lives, including their huge hit This Country.

So if you’re into ghosts and This Country, this certainly could be for you!

The BBC has yet to reveal a release date for Daisy May and Charlie Cooper's NightWatch. It's six parts, and each episode is 30 minutes.

Here's our TV tonight picks for Friday, September 12.

For more information about what's on TV, see our TV Guide and check out TV Times Magazine for exclusive chats and features!

Bake Off: An Extra Slice, Channel 4, 8 pm

We’re not sure it’s possible to get a more wholesome yet genuinely funny start to the weekend than Bake Off’s sister show. Jo Brand hits exactly the right note (there’s as much eye-roll as Swiss roll) while hosting the celebrity panel and sympathising with the baker who has left the tent, and Tom Allen’s deadpan style is perfect. With his huge ‘whisk’ microphone, he’s merciless with the home bakers in the studio, who seem only too delighted to have their offerings – and their personal lives – under his scrutiny. Tonight, there’s a look back at all the Biscuit Week drama, while the panel includes Stephen Mangan.

Gardeners’ World, BBC2, 8 pm

Much as many of us would like to hang on to summer for as long as possible, now we’re heading into the middle of September, it’s time for gardeners to be practical and look ahead to autumn. Monty Don does just that this episode, as he prunes his raspberries, harvests sweetcorn and assesses his plants in pots. Meanwhile, Frances Tophill is in Cornwall to find out more about a new technology that’s creating borders for pollinators.

Downton Abbey Celebrates, ITVX

As the Downton saga comes to an end with the cinematic release of Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, this documentary looks at a worldwide phenomenon.

Mitchell and Webb Are Not Helping, Channel 4, 10 pm

David Mitchell and Robert Webb’s sketch show series continues tonight with a terrible reality show, Hot Seat (even the host, played by Webb, admits the format is like ‘two Maltesers in a paper bag’). There’s also the return of Sweary Aussie Drama, an advert for an incredibly violent family game called Stab the Pirate and an insight into the conversation which may have taken place when ABBA’s Björn asked his wife Agnetha to sing the words ‘I’m nothing special, in fact I’m a bit of a bore’ in Thank You for the Music.

After exploring the cultural treasures of Venice, Florence and Rome in their BAFTA-winning Grand Tour of Italy last year, Rob Rinder and Rylan Clark jumped at the chance of embarking on another odyssey for BBC2.

Rob and Rylan’s Passage to India, inspired by EM Forster’s 1924 novel, begins in Delhi, where the bustling capital’s diverse and vibrant art scene soon leads them towards a whole world of different experiences.

Speaking about his new show, Rylan told us: "Grand Tour was about following in the footsteps of [Romantic poet] Lord Byron – Rob’s a big fan of Byron’s work, so we wanted to keep that theme going and another of his literary heroes is EM Forster, so A Passage to India just made sense. I’ve still not read the book – and until about halfway through Delhi, I thought his name was ‘Ian’, not ‘EM’!"

Here's everything you need to know about Rob and Rylan’s Passage to India...

Rob and Rylan’s Passage to India release date

Rob and Rylan’s Passage to India starts on BBC Two on Sunday, September 14. The three-part series will then air weekly at the same time.

All three episodes also land on iPlayer as a box set on Sunday, September 14.

Rob and Rylan’s Passage to India episode guide

Episode 1 - Sunday September, 14
Rob and Rylan follow in the footsteps of Rob's favourite novelist, E M Forster, and set out on a journey around India to discover the art, culture and ancient wisdom of the country with the hope it will help them lead better lives. They begin in the capital city of Delhi, where they immerse themselves in the chaotic street market of Chandni Chowk and visit the Humayun's Tomb, the architectural masterpiece that inspired the Taj Mahal.

Episode 2 - Sunday, September 21
Rob Rinder and Rylan Clark board a packed train to Rajasthan during Diwali, the vibrant festival of lights. They discover that its cities of Udaipur and Jaipur are home to generations of skilled craftspeople making everything from ornate block prints to traditional jewellery. The pair try miniature painting, hear a worrying prediction from an astrologer and celebrate Diwali with the crown prince of Jaipur

Epsiode 3 - Sunday, September 28
The final stop in their tour sees the duo confronting their own mortality in India’s holiest city, where they also discover an erotic temple and try to experience spiritual growth via mud-wrestling.

Is there a trailer for Rob and Rylan’s Passage to India?

Yes, the trailer sees the pair heading to some of India's most beautiful locations... while also encountering camels on the road and trying on some dazzling jewels for size.

You can watch below...

Rob and Rylan’s Passage to India interview

The BBC has announced that Sophie Willan will take over from Sara Pascoe as the new host of The Great British Sewing Bee.

Sara has been at the helm for three series, but the BBC has decided to mix things up by having Alma’s Not Normal star Sophie taking over.

Sophie also featured in the first series of Ludwig opposite David Mitchell.

The star will make her debut in the show's upcoming Christmas special before fronting the new series when it arrives on BBC One and iPlayer next year.

Cal Turner, Commissioning Editor, said: "We are delighted to welcome Sophie Willan to The Great British Sewing Bee. With her boundless enthusiasm and energy, Sophie will bring her own unique spark to the sewing room alongside Patrick and Esme. We’d also like to thank Sara Pascoe for three brilliant series — her humour and charm have been a joy for viewers and stitchers alike."

Tom Davies, Executive Producer Love Productions says: "We are so excited to have Sophie join the Sewing Bee team and we cannot wait to see what she brings to the Sewing Room."

The BBC also took the chance to thank Sara for her contribution to the show.

Sophie follows in the footsteps of Sara, Kiell Smith-Bynoe, Joe Lycett and Claudia Winkleman. The show has been a huge hit for the BBC, first launching in April 2013.

The final of the current series will air next Tuesday on BBC1 at 9 pm, which will be Sara's last appearance. The finalists tackle three challenges in their bid to be crowned this year's winner. They begin by following the pattern for a deceptively simple bias-cut slip dress, where one mistake in cutting the fabric could cost them the chance to continue.

In the transformation challenge, they make garments using sheer fabric before finally tackling the art of trompe l'oeil, creating illusions with fabric to fit their chosen friend or family member. Three finalists, three challenges — but only one will be crowned as the latest champion.

Strictly Come Dancing 2025 is heading for our screens next week, bringing glitz and glamour back to our Saturday nights once again. But, there is a big change heading for the series as the way we vote has altered.

It was announced by the BBC that phone voting has been dropped from the show, meaning all fans of the series will now need to vote for their favorites online.

The BBC says: "For years, shows like Strictly Come Dancing, BBC Sports Personality of the Year and Eurovision let viewers vote by calling premium-rate numbers. However, this is now an outdated system and also expensive to run.

"Online voting has become the go-to choice for most viewers. In fact, the overwhelming majority of votes for the last Strictly series were cast online."

Online-only voting can be done via your BBC account, which the BBC explains 'offers a more personalised iPlayer experience and weather updates tailored to your location'.

Back for the new series are Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman in their presenting roles, with Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Anton du Beke all returning to the judging panel.

The celebrity lineup includes Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, Dani Dyer, Vicky Pattison, Alex Kingston, Balvinder Sopal, Stefan Dennis, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Chris Robshaw, Ellie Goldstein, George Clarke, La Voix, Ross King, Karen Carney, and Lewis Cope.

Actor Kristian Nairn was also announced but had to withdraw for medical reasons, with Lewis Cope replacing him.

How to vote

If you already have a BBC account, you don’t need to do anything. During voting, you’ll be directed to the show’s website where the voting link will be clearly shown.

If you don’t have an account yet, signing up is simple and free at www.bbc.com/register.

Strictly Come Dancing returns to our screens on Saturday, September 20, 2025.

Here's our TV tonight picks for Thursday, September 11.

For more information about what's on TV, see our TV Guide and check out TV Times Magazine for exclusive chats and features!

The Ann Ming Story, ITV1, 9 pm

The remarkable true story of Teesside grandmother Ann Ming’s fight to put her daughter Julie’s killer behind bars is currently playing out in ITV drama I Fought the Law, starring Sheridan Smith (see p46). This documentary looks at the police investigation into Julie’s disappearance in 1989, the acquittal of suspect Billy Dunlop in the face of damning evidence, and Ann’s subsequent campaign to overturn the 800-year-old ‘double jeopardy’ law that prevented a retrial, even after Dunlop confessed. There’s testimony from Ann, her grandson Kevin, who reveals the toll his mother’s murder took on him, and the police officer who worked the case. We also hear Sheridan’s view of the indomitable woman she portrays.

Saving Lives at Sea, BBC2, 8 pm

In an episode concentrating on search operations, dangerous seas and conflicting information leave crews facing tense and treacherous situations. Off Kingsbarns Beach, near Anstruther in Scotland, a paddleboarder is in trouble. The crew are worried to hear the casualty is on a blue and white board – perfect camo in choppy waters – but more concerned that they have no life jacket or wetsuit, making the prospect of hypothermia in the freezing North Sea a real danger. Meanwhile, there’s confusion in Sussex, when the Selsey lifeboat responds to reports of a person entering the water fully clothed near a popular diving destination…

Atomic, Sky Atlantic and Sky Showcase, 9 pm

Fans of BBC One’s The Night Manager who are impatiently waiting for its second series could do worse in the meantime than hunkering down with Sky’s Atomic, another cinematic edge-of-the-seat thriller played out on an international stage. After meeting in the Libyan desert, Max (Alfie Allen) and JJ (Shazad Latif) have picked up their cargo in Beirut, travelled through Syria and now they’re in Marrakech. ‘This is not what you think it is,’ says Max when he’s reunited with his girlfriend, Laetitia (Charlie Murphy) – and actually, it’s not what we think it is, either. The twists keep coming in this penultimate episode, setting us up for what’s sure to be an explosive finale next week…

Taskmaster, Channel 4, 9 pm

Few shows on TV are such a source of guaranteed delight as Taskmaster, and series 20(!) gets off to a roaring start tonight. The five comedians hoping to impress Greg Davies and his assistant ‘Little’ Alex Horne this time around are Ania Magliano, Maisie Adam, Phil Ellis, Reece Shearsmith and Sanjeev Bhaskar, and the mood is set admirably when an early task involves everyone pursuing Alex around the Taskmaster house while trying to scan a QR code on his jacket. Chaos immediately ensues, and it only gets more bizarre with large-scale bowling and a mission involving multiplication…

Here's our TV tonight picks for Wednesday, September 10 (for more information about what's on TV, see our TV Guide and check out TV Times Magazine for exclusive chats and features)...

National Television Awards, ITV1, 8 pm

It’s that time of year again when all of the brightest lights in the TV firmament head to London’s O2 Arena, dressed in their finest outfits and hoping that they’ll have to make room on the mantelpiece for a new trophy when they get home. Joel Dommett is once again our host with the most, and after he pulled out a surprise musical number to open last year’s ceremony, we can’t wait to see what he’s got planned for tonight! But we’re mostly excited to see who the big winners will be – and if this could be the year that someone else manages to snag the TV Presenter trophy away from Ant & Dec. You never know…

The Rumour, Channel 5, 9pm

A wave of paranoia engulfs a small town when a mother stumbles across an online post about a convicted child killer living in her neighbourhood under a new identity. As a newcomer to the area, Joanna (Rachel Shenton, All Creatures Great and Small) wants to know more and is soon sharing the information with a group of mums at her son’s new school. But as her mission to uncover the killer’s identity intensifies, there are devastating consequences. A great cast, including Emily Atack and Joanne Whalley, get this five-part adaptation of Lesley Kara’s bestselling novel off to a gripping start. Continues every evening at the same time until Friday.

The Girlfriend, Prime Video

There’s a touch of Single White Female about Prime Video’s new psychological thriller as Robin Wright (House of Cards) plays devoted mother Laura, a successful businesswoman who’ll stop at nothing to protect her only son Daniel (The Road Trip’s Laurie Davidson) from his suspicious new partner, Cherry (House of the Dragon’s Olivia Cooke). With each episode in this six-parter told from dual perspectives, you’ll find yourselves switching sides throughout – is Cherry a manipulative social climber, or is Laura a paranoid, possessive mum? – making this well-executed drama all the more compelling. Lands as a box set.

Stranded on Honeymoon Island, BBC1, 9 pm

If you haven’t watched this yet but need a handle on what exactly it is, think Married at First Sight crossed with Survivor, with a dash of Made in Chelsea. After three episodes, we’re invested in the six couples who were matched after speed-dating and dispatched to an island in the Philippines. A meeting at ‘Couples Cove’ gave them a chance to compare their burgeoning relationships with others, leading Mae to feel upset about the lack of romance with Moray. Will that change this week? Continues until Friday.

Jack Branning (played by Scott Maslen) is ready to confess ALL about the night of the shooting on EastEnders! (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings).

Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) remains unaware that it was Jack and Ravi Gulati's (Aaron Thiara) confrontation over a gun that landed her in hospital...

However, what could this mean for Jack's future?

Will he go from copper to criminal and get banged-up?

And will he throw Ravi under the bus at the same time with his confession?

Worried about the consequences of a confession, Jack's partner, Denise Fox (Diane Parish), finds herself back in the orbit of her ex-lover, Ravi...

Despite the awkward circumstances surrounding their break-up earlier this year, Denise now needs Ravi's help...

Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig) is furious to discover that her nightmare teenage stepson, Joel (Max Murray), has skipped school to attend a LIVE event featuring his favourite online influencer, Drake Zagan.

And he has taken his mate Tommy Moon (Sonny Kendall) with him.

Vicki turns to Julie Haye (Karen Henthorn), who has just landed a new job at Walford High School, to try and talk some sense into Joel about his continuing misogynist beliefs.

But will Joel listen?

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Jack Branning (played by Scott Maslen) remains a guilty man after the incident that led to the SHOCK shooting of Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) on EastEnders (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings).

So far, only Jack, his partner Denise Fox (Diane Parish) and Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) know the truth about what happened when the gun accidentally went off.

But copper Zack's guilt over what happened continues to grow.

On today's episode of the BBC soap, he tells Denise it's time for him to CONFESS the truth and face the consequences...

Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner) and family relative, Zoe (Michelle Ryan), go on a SECRET stake out to find out what has happened to Greg.

Is he alive... or DEAD?

Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig) is furious to discover that stepson Joel (Max Murray) has skipped school to attend a LIVE event featuring controversial male podcaster, Drake Zagan.

PLUS, Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins) wants to move into 25 Albert Square to help her son Peter (Thomas Law) with the kids.

But the news doesn't go down well with Peter's girlfriend, Lauren Branning (Jaqueline Jossa)!

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Zoe Slater (played by Michelle Ryan) has been welcomed home by the Slater family after a 20 year absence on EastEnders (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings).

However, she remains worried that her past is gonna catch-up to her.

And that she could be putting the rest of the family, including mum Kat (Jessie Wallace), in DANGER!

Zoe is ready to pack her bags and do another runner.

But, family relative Stacey (Lacey Turner) convinces her to stick around and the Slaters will help Zoe deal with the threat.

Things take a dark turn when Zoe confesses that she had a physical fight with the man called Greg, who she has previously mentioned.

And now Greg could be DEAD!

Harry Mitchell (Elijah Holloway) is worried after Ravi Gulati's (Aaron Thiara) threat to put George Knight (Colin Salmon) out of action...

George is getting closer to finding out that Ravi, Harry and drug dealer Okie (Aayan Ibikunle Shoderu) have been using his brother Kojo's (Dayo Koleosho) flat as a base for their illegal dealings.

But can Harry discreetly warn George before Ravi takes drastic action?

PLUS, Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig) is left looking after teenage nightmare, Joel Marshall (Max Murray), while his dad Ross takes on another job.

It's not long before Joel is up to more deceptive behaviour, determined to see his favourite male podcaster at a LIVE event...

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Zoe Slater (played by Michelle Ryan) is discharged from hospital after the SHOCK shooting on EastEnders (7:30pm - see our TV Guide for listings).

Zoe is unaware of local copper Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) and bad boy Ravi Gulati's (Aaron Thiara) involvement in the incident.

So she remains paranoid that she was deliberately targeted by someone she is in DANGER from...

Back on Albert Square, Zoe soon finds herself in a confrontation with Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig) over her fateful affair with Vicki's dad Den years earlier...

When Zoe discovers she is talk of the Square, and she's been named in a newspaper article about the shooting, she feels even more at risk.

So she decides to leave a voicemail message for SOMEONE from her past...

Could this have anything to do with the MYSTERY call she received while in hospital from none other than Max Branning (Jake Wood)?

George Knight (Colin Salmon) continues to remain suspicious about his brother Kojo's (Dayo Koleosho) "friend", Tobias 'Okie' Okyere (Aayan Ibikunle Shoderu).

George becomes more concerned when he sees Okie entering Kojo's flat and discovers the locks have recently been changed.

After George confronts drug dealer Okie on Kojo's behalf, Ravi decides he may soon have to handle George himself to thrown him off the scent of their illegal dealings...

There's good news for various residents of Albert Square.

Julie Haye (Karen Henthorn) reveals she's got a new job at Walford High School.

Kim Fox (Tameka Empson) considers driving again for the first time since her car crash.

PLUS, Alfie Moon (Shane Richie) offers Zack Hudson (James Farrar) the role of chef at the Vic.

EastEnders continues Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Here's our TV tonight picks for Monday, September 8 (for more information about what's on TV, see our TV Guide)...

The Guest, BBC1, 9 pm

After the shocking ending to last week’s episode, Ria (Gabrielle Creevy) is questioned by the police, while her feckless boyfriend, Lee (Sion Daniel Young), blames himself for not helping out more. Fran (Eve Myles) asks Ria to come back to work for her, which is a welcome distraction from the anonymous messages Ria keeps getting, but Lee thinks Fran isn’t to be trusted. He’s not the only one – if you remember, the handyman, Derek (Clive Russell), had previously warned Ria, ‘Get out of here while you can’. What did he mean? And who is behind those increasingly threatening messages? The uneasy tension continues to build in this twisty psychological thriller.

The Sunshine Murders, 5, 2.15 pm

New Zealand farmer Shirley Rangi (Emily Corcoran) fetches up in Athens in this first episode of a ‘cosy crime’ series, originally scheduled to air on Tuesday, September 2. She’s there in search of her father, but unexpectedly finds a secret half-sister, Detective Helen Moustakas (Dora Chrysikou). At first, Helen finds her to be an unwelcome annoyance, but Shirley’s shrewd observational skills and insights prove surprisingly useful during Helen’s investigation into the death of an archaeologist. Look out for Peter Andre as pathologist George. The series continues with new stories every afternoon until Friday.

Thailand: The Dark Side of Paradise, BBC3, 10 pm

It’s been fascinating to watch 2018 Love Island contestant Zara McDermott develop into an accomplished presenter of documentaries, and here she delves into the highs and lows of holiday haven Thailand. The first episode sees Zara explore Bangkok from a backpacker’s point of view, before delving into its bustling red light district. Continues until Wednesday and is also available as a box set on BBC iPlayer.

Jamie: Eat Yourself Healthy, Channel 4, 8 pm

We’re all well used to newspaper reports on the next ‘superfood’, or consumer shows telling us why we need this or that trending ingredient in our fridges or larders, so what’s been refreshing about Jamie Oliver’s latest series is bringing the science together with recipes that look genuinely delicious. In this week’s episode, for example, we may know that fermented foods are good for the gut, but how about using kimchi in a sauce for a seared tuna dish to boost our bone health? Other highlights include a squash risotto with potential to help with our eyesight, plus a look at how compounds in kiwi fruit could aid sleep.

Here's our TV tonight picks for Sunday, September 7 (for more information about what's on TV, see our TV Guide)...

Freddie Flintoff's Field of Dreams: Ultimate Test, BBC1, 8.10 pm

Previously on Field of Dreams, England cricket legend Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff set out to prove the game wasn’t just for the elite by creating a youth team from his home town of Preston, then taking them to India. Now he’s setting up a Field of Dreams league in a bid to reach more kids across the UK. Tonight, we follow Freddie and his coaches as they start a boys’ team in Liverpool, and his first girls’ team in Blackpool. But while the girls get stuck in, the behaviour of the Liverpool lads puts the project on a decidedly sticky wicket. The result is another inspiring chapter in this BAFTA-nominated show. Also available as a box set on BBC iPlayer.

I Fought the Law, ITV1, 9 pm

Following the disappointment of the first murder trial, bereaved mother Ann Ming (Sheridan Smith) faces further heartbreak when the accused is acquitted at a second trial, as the real-life drama reaches its conclusion over the next two nights. Worse still, after hearing the murderer has been boasting about killing her daughter Julie to his mates in the pub, Ann is told the devastating news that the centuries-old double jeopardy law means he cannot be tried for the same crime again. As the health of Ann and husband Charlie (Daniel York Loh) starts to suffer as the battle for justice continues, Sheridan gives a masterclass in grit and grief in this astonishing story of a inspirational woman.

King & Conqueror, BBC1, 9.10 pm

Back on English soil after uniting the earls of England against King Edward’s formidable mother Lady Emma (Juliet Stevenson) and freeing his wife Edith, Harold faces a new threat when he’s appointed Earl of Wessex over his vengeful brother, Sweyn. Meanwhile, William seeks to take down the French king Henry, and Wessex and Flanders are aligned when Harold’s youngest brother marries Baldwin’s niece. But there’s a further twist when Hardrada of Norway receives a message from Lady Emma enticing him to claim the English crown…

Cooking with the Stars, ITV1, 6.55 pm

Hosts Emma Willis and Tom Allen introduce an epic head-to-head cook off as the three celeb finalists battle to take home the Golden Frying Pan!

EastEnders executive producer Ben Wadey has revealed if we can expect Tanya Branning (Jo Joyner) to return after her ex-husband Max Branning (Jake Wood) made a bombshell return to the soap after four years.

Over the past two years, the soap has seen the iconic Branning family expand. First, we saw the return of Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) and her cousin Penny (Kitty Castledine) in 2024. Now, in 2025, we've had Oscar Branning (Pierre Counihan-Moullier) and most recently, the legendary Max make an explosive comeback.

Max's shock return this week revealed that he was in a relationship with Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) and he had given her £5,000 to help track down her long-lost son.

With both Tanya's son and ex-husband now back on the scene, surely it would only be right to bring her back and sort out her chaotic family.

During an EastEnders press event, Wadey touched upon the possibility of Joyner returning as the beloved Branning matriarch.

"We've just given you Max and Zoe, let's enjoy that!" he joked. "I mean, Jo is amazing, isn't she? We've also got an amazing cast, brilliant performers that all deserve and need stories."

While it looks like Tanya won't be returning anytime soon, we did get an update on her whereabouts when her teenage tearaway son Oscar returned to the Square after eight years.

Tanya moved to Exeter with Oscar in 2013 after her turbulent marriage to Max ended. She has been living there ever since, but Oscar was forced to return to Walford after Tanya kicked him out when his gangster friend tried to petrol bomb their home.

With his on-screen ex-wife nowhere to be seen, Jake Wood has since teased a romantic reunion for one of the soap's most iconic couples.

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One at 7.30pm. Episodes are also released on BBC iPlayer at 6am on the morning they are broadcast.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Here's our TV tonight picks for Saturday, September 6 (for more information about what's on TV, see our TV Guide)...

Win Win, ITV1, 7.15

It’s been quite a few years since we last saw former comedy partners and presenters Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins together on TV (although they have hosted a podcast together), so we’re delighted they’re back on prime time with a brand new series. There are plenty of quiz shows in the schedules, but there’s a major difference with this one, which poses Family Fortunes-style survey questions. It’s interactive in that viewers can play along at home, not just for their own enjoyment or to satisfy a competitive streak, but to have the chance to win the same prizes as the studio contestants. At the end of the series’ run, there’s £1 million up for grabs – which could be won by a lucky viewer!

Annika, BBC1, 9.10 pm

The plot threads involving the fractured family of DI Annika Strandhed (Nicola Walker) continue to be woven throughout this final episode in the series, revolving especially around the father figures of Magnus (Sven Henriksen) and Michael (Jamie Sives). The Marine Homicide Unit is assigned the case when a retired detective inspector dies in a houseboat fire. One of the suspects is ex-con Gary Nair (a creepy turn by Two Doors Down’s Jonathan Watson) and, as the investigation continues, it becomes more and more personal for Annika. We’re left with a brilliant cliffhanger, but it’s uncertain if it’ll be resolved as there are currently no plans for a third series…

Casualty, BBC1, 8.20pm

Armed with her biological mother’s address, tonight Nicole Piper heads to Newcastle seeking answers about why she was put into foster care as a young child. In true drama fashion, she turns up on Tina Piper’s doorstep, is mistaken for a district nurse and invited inside. But, that plot convenience aside, this is an episode worth tuning in for. Before long Nicole’s experiencing flashbacks, Tina’s rumbled her real identity and from there the shocks keep coming. A truly moving and dignified exploration into the medic’s painful past and resulting hard truths with standout performances from I, Daniel Blake’s Sammy T. Dobson and Sharon Percy.

You Bet! On Tour. OTV1, 8.15 pm

As Stephen Mulhern continues to take his game show around the UK, he finds more people ready to take on his challenges as they bid to win £5,000. As ever, there’s a celebrity panel on hand, whose task is to try to predict whether those challenges will be completed. Today, that falls to Rob Beckett, Zoe Ball and Eddie Kadi.

EastEnders newcomer Pierre Counihan-Moullier, who plays Oscar Branning, had a hilarious question to ask soap legend Adam Woodyatt — and you won't believe what it was.

After the return of Penny Branning (Kitty Castledine) and her cousin Lauren on New Year's Day in 2024, the Branning brood got bigger when Oscar made his comeback after eight years.

Oscar was last seen in 2017 when he visited his dad Max Branning (Jake Wood) on Father’s Day and now the estranged pair are set to be reunited later this year. However, Oscar's return proves that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

Much like his father, Oscar has already found himself in trouble with the Walford residents. Although he's just got out of the youth detention centre, Oscar has gone on to accidentally attack Patrick Trueman (Rudolph Walker), nearly stab his brother-in-law Peter Beale (Thomas Law) and steal a gun.

But while he's being a nightmare for his sister Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa), there was one person in particular who wasn't pleased to see the troublesome teen back in town and that's Ian Beale (Woodyatt).

The pair didn't have the best of starts as Oscar faked a fall at Beale's Plaice to blackmail Ian for money and it doesn't help that his dad also has a turbulent history with the family.

Fortunately though, the pair get on a lot better in real life, so much so that the young actor asked him a shocking question that will have soap fans in disbelief.

At an EastEnders press event, his on-screen sister Jacqueline Jossa revealed that Counihan-Moullier asked Woodyatt how long he'd been on the soap for.

Counihan-Moullier said: "I had my characterisation day with Ben [Wadey] and the writers and producers, because I hadn't watched much of the show," before Jossa jumped in and revealed: "He asked Adam Woodyatt how long he'd been on the show. I was like 'from day one!'"

"He was actually super chill about it," he added.

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One at 7.30pm. Episodes are also released on BBC iPlayer at 6am on the morning they are broadcast.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Here's our TV tonight picks for Friday, September 5 (for more information about what's on TV, see our TV Guide)...

Gogglebox, Channel 4, 9 pm

Our favourite couch potatoes are back to give us their opinion on the latest TV and, we hope, an update on everything else. Has Lee used any more of Jenny’s face cream as a dip? Has Daniella been drinking out of a plant pot again? We don’t yet know what they’ll be watching, but we’ll hazard a guess that it could include Parenthood, Dating Naked or The Great British Bake Off 2025.

The Paper, Sky Max and Sky Showcase, 9 pm

This sequel to the US version of The Office follows the fortunes of the once mighty Ohio newspaper the Toledo Truth Teller, now a shadow of its former self. Under the temporary stewardship of the website’s managing editor, clickbait queen Esmeralda Grand (Sabrina Impacciatore), the print edition has languished, its pages filled with irrelevant celebrity stories bought in from agencies. Newly installed editor-in-chief Ned Sampson (Domhnall Gleeson) has a bold, idealistic vision to restore the paper to its glory days – but with no money to make it happen, can he turn his beleaguered admin staff into scoop-hungry reporters?

Here We Go, BBC1, 9 pm

The Jessops are on their way to baby Atlas’ baptism, but godfather Paul (Jim Howick) has got a dodgy tummy and, according to Sue (Alison Steadman), ‘has that poorly dog smell’. Amy (Freya Parks), meanwhile, is preparing to play at the Bedford Battle of the Bands and is hopefully putting her crisis behind her, but her bandmate is worried that having septuagenarian Sue as their devoted No 1 fan sends the wrong message. It all works out in the end, but there are some highly embarrassing moments along the way… This has been another great series and the Jessops are turning into one of our favourite sitcom families.

Bake Off: An Extra Slice, Channel 4, 8 pm

Following Tuesday’s first episode of The Great British Bake Off 2025 series, Jo Brand and Tom Allen are back with the highly entertaining sister show. Hassan joins them - the first baker to leave the series - and Jonathan Ross is on the panel.

EastEnders icon Jake Wood has teased that there could be another romance on the cards for one of the soap's most notorious couples — Max Branning and Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner).

The soap dropped a bombshell return this week as Jake Wood returned to our screens as Max Branning after four years.

Max made his shock return at the end of Wednesday's (September 3) episode when Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace) answered Zoe's (Michelle Ryan) phone after her daughter had been fatally shot.

Soon enough, more secrets came to the surface in tonight's episode (Thursday, September 4) when it was revealed that Max and Zoe were in a relationship. Max later gave Zoe £5,000 to a dodgy private investigator to help find her son, who she left in the hospital after a traumatic birth.

Despite Zoe commanding Max to stay away, it's not long before Max disobeys her orders and returns to the Square in October.

The legendary womanizer has plenty of unfinished business in Walford, but no doubt one of the messiest of them all is his relationship with former lover and Zoe's cousin, Stacey.

Max's scandalous love affair with daughter-in-law Stacey went down in soap history, and with Max back on the scene, there's a possibility of the former flames reconnecting.

At an EastEnders press event to celebrate Max's return, Wood told What To Watch that there's "undoubtedly" unfinished business with Stacey and how strong their connection is.

He said: "She's on her own and Max is not quite on his own. I suppose her circumstances are... there'll always be a connection with Max and Stacey. So regardless of where they are and who they're with, I think they'll always be an emotional connection between them. They understand each other."

And the possibility of them reuniting after beloved Martin Fowler's (James Bye) death?

"They'll always be connected regardless of what they're doing, whether the timing is always ever right for them to reconnect on that level, and whether they both want to," he teased.

"We all know Lacey Turner is going on an extended break. Will Max and Stacey's paths cross before she goes? You have to just keep watching. I really hope so."

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One at 7.30pm. Episodes are also released on BBC iPlayer at 6am on the morning they are broadcast.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Strictly Come Dancing 2025 is just around the corner and, now that we know which celebrity contestants are taking part, everyone's trying to work out who might be joining the Strictly Come Dancing winners list.

While former Emmerdale favourite Lewis Cope is currently favourite to win at 7/2, Ross King is unfortunately predicted to be the first elimination for the new series at 80/1.

However, in a shock turn of events, Neighbours legend Stefan Dennis has been given virtually no chance of winning after being given whopping odds of 50-1. According to bookmakers Oddschecker, the Neighbours legend could be one of the first to leave the competition, but of course, this is based on nothing but speculation.

One thing Stefan most definitely has on his side is the number of Neighbours fans who will be voting in their droves. If viewers of the Australian soap can get the show renewed after it was axed by Channel 5 back in 2022, then who knows how far Stefan might get in the series.

Other odds for the celebrity dancers are: Ellie Goldstein 9/2, Dani Dyer 5/1, Karen Carney 9/1, George Clarke 10/1, Alex Kingston 16/1, Vicky Pattinson 18/1, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey 20/1, Balvinder Sopal 20/1, Tom Skinner 22/1, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink 35/1, Le Voix 35/1, and Chris Robshaw neck and neck with Stefan at 50/1.

The new series, which starts later this month, sees Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman back presenting once again, while Craig Revel Horwood, Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Anton du Beke are all back on the judging panel once again.

Strictly Come Dancing 2024 saw Chris McCausland lift the glitterball trophy with dance partner Dianne Buswell, and this year we will have two new professional dancers joining the show when it returns.

Sadly, we have already had our first celebrity withdraw from the series, with Game of Thrones star Kristian Nairn leaving due to 'unforeseen medical reasons'. Could his replacement, Lewis Cope, be the one to lift the trophy this year?

Strictly Come Dancing 2025 will return to BBC One and BBC iPlayer in September 2025.

Ludwig season 2 has started filming, with David Mitchell again starring alongside Anna Maxwell Martin.

And it's been revealed that Shetland star Mark Bonnar is joining the cast as a regular alongside Fleabag's Sian Clifford. Mark plays newspaper editor Gareth Fisher, with Sian as local MP, Joanne Kemper.

Ludwig was the BBC's biggest hit of 2024, with the comedy-drama attracting huge audiences. Fans in the US and Canada will be able to watch season 2 of Ludwig via BritBox.

Teasing the second series, the makers say: "Picking up from where things were left at the end of series one, master puzzle-setter John 'Ludwig' Taylor (David Mitchell) is now a Crime Scene Consultant working on 'impossible' crimes for the Cambridge Police Authority. No longer having to masquerade as his brother, he's openly more 'Ludwig' than ever — brilliant at solving puzzles but hopeless at everything else.

"But John's identical twin brother, James, is still missing, and now that he's an official employee of the station, John is forbidden from using any police resources to look for his brother or uncover exactly what he was investigating.

"Of course, John won't stop and neither will Lucy (Anna Maxwell Martin), John’s sister-in-law and wife of his missing brother James — a puzzle needs solving and a husband and father needs bringing home. One masquerade may have ended, but a new one has just begun.”

Also joining the cast is Ben Ashenden (Deep Cover) as DC Ethan Cole, and Rumi Sutton (After the Flood) as DC Caitlin Sullivan.

Returning for series two are Dipo Ola as DCI Russell Carter, Dylan Hughes as Henry Betts-Taylor, Dorothy Atkinson as DCS Carol Shaw, Ralph Ineson as Chief Constable Ziegler, and Karl Pilkington as DI Matt Neville.

The new series is six parts, but we don't have a confirmed release date as yet.

Check out our best BBC dramas for more series to enjoy.

Here's our TV tonight picks for Thursday, September 4 (for more information about what's on TV, see our TV Guide)...

The Morning Show, Apple TV Plus

While Apple TV Plus shows such as Slow Horses, Severance and Ted Lasso get a lot of love, The Morning Show always seems to have less of a buzz around it. But the award-winning series about a news network based in New York has A-list stars in Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, plus a terrific supporting cast including Billy Crudup and Jon Hamm. It also has engaging storylines, which can admittedly occasionally require you to suspend your disbelief – but so do lots of great dramas. Judge for yourself ahead of Season 4, which lands on September 17, and will hopefully resolve that cliffhanger at the end of Season 3…

Saving Lives at Sea, BBC2, 8 pm

What this programme is so good at is highlighting how every search and rescue puts the lives of the RNLI volunteers in danger as much as those in peril. Tonight’s first call-out is a beyond-the-call-of-duty case, as the Portaferry crew set out to find two lost kayakers. They’re in a blow-up boat, have drifted south from Strangford Lough, with its 10m swirls and standing waves – ‘like pulling the bath plug’ says sailing coach Rusty – and there’s a 60mph wind. Then the Coastguard confirms one casualty is in the water… There are also cautionary tales about going for a night swim and understanding how quickly the tide can come in, as well as a Mayday – the most urgent distress call a lifeboat station can receive.

Atomic, Sky Atlantic and Sky Showcase

After the shoot-’em-ups and car chases of last week’s double bill, this third episode takes a more contemplative tone as Max and JJ head to a destroyed Palmyra in Syria to return the statue. Hot on their heels is CIA agent Elliott, who has been unexpectedly joined by her former colleague Ellis (Brian Gleeson), whom she views as more of a hindrance than a help. And the sands are shifting as to which characters we think we can trust…

The Dog House, Channel 4, 8 pm

On our second visit to the Woodgreen Pets Charity, we meet Fox, an abandoned Pomeranian who was found wandering alone in a field. She needs TLC, so could she be just the new addition a family has been longing for? Cheeky Coconut has energy to burn, but will he prove too much of a live wire for blind boxer Narla when he’s paired up with her for a pooch play date? As ever with this heart-warming series, it’s the stories of the prospective pet owners and their excitement at meeting new pup pals that endear as much as the four-legged stars themselves, so when dog-lovers Rev Alex and Carrie get acquainted with an adorable bundle of love called Mushy, you’ll be hoping for an ending to match the name!

It's the EastEnders comeback we have all been waiting for, but finally, Max Branning is back on our screens.

The shock return came at the end of tonight's episode (Wednesday, September 3) when Kat answered Zoe's phone while her daughter was fighting for her life in the hospital.

While we all knew Jake Wood would be reprising his role as legendary Max, we didn't know exactly when he would be making his comeback; however, fans thought there might be something huge happening in tonight's episode when it didn't land on BBC iPlayer this morning.

The episode opened with Zoe getting shot after Jack and Ravi fought with a gun in the Square. At the end of Tuesday's episode, the pair looked horrified as the shot rang out, only for the credits to roll, and it was only today's episode that revealed it was Zoe who had been caught in the crossfire.

The drama continued as panic set out across Walford, with everyone worried there was a gunman on the loose. Zoe was rushed to hospital and straight into theatre, but not before flashbacks revealed what she has been up to since we last saw her on the Square.

But it wasn't until the very end of the episode that we saw Max calling Zoe's phone.

After finding out Zoe was caught up in trouble, Kat was left scared that Zoe was running from someone who was determined to harm her, and so when Zoe’s phone rang, Kat picked up, wanting answers.

However, with Max staying silent, Kat was unaware of who was on the phone - oblivious that it was someone she knows.

But how does Max know Zoe, and what is their connection? Is Max after Zoe for money? Or do they have a much friendlier relationship?

Luckily, we don't have to wait long to find out, because all will be revealed when EastEnders continues on Thursday on BBC iPlayer at 6 am and BBC One at 7.30 pm.

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One at 7.30pm. Episodes are also released on BBC iPlayer at 6am on the morning they are broadcast.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

EastEnders fans are facing a longer wait than usual to find out what happens next after last night's shock shooting episode.

Usually, the new episode is available for fans to watch early on BBC iPlayer the morning that it is due to air on BBC One at 7.30 pm. However, today's episode (Wednesday, September 3) is missing from iPlayer, meaning fans will have to wait for the drama to unfold on BBC One tonight instead.

Fans of the show will know that this usually happens when something big is about to be revealed, and the episode is held back so that everyone can watch the drama unfold at the same time.

Last night's epsiode of EastEnders saw Ravi and Jack fighting over a gun that had been passed around the Square, only to end up back in Ravi's possession when he broke into Jack's house during Yolande and Patrick's wedding and stole it back.

He happened to be caught by an unsuspecting Denise, who arrived home just in time to see him escaping out of the back door, and Jack was fuming to learn his rival had been in his home.

Knowing that he was there for the gun, which Jack had been hiding for Oscar, who had taken it from Harry's hiding place after he was given it by Ravi to get rid of (are you keeping up?!) Jack went to confront Ravi, and the pair ended up fighting in the Square, only for the gun to go off mid-tussle.

Now, we don't know who got shot, if anyone at all - but the looks on Ravi and Jack's faces hinted there is plenty of drama to come. And with both Zoe and Kat arguing in the market at the time, they were most definitely in the firing line.

Zoe came back to the Square in a bid to get her hands on some cash, but instead was tricked by Tommy and reunited with Kat after decades apart. The pair had an emotional reunion which was far from happy, but is their time together about to be cut short?

Who could have been shot, and will they be okay?

One thing is for sure - tonight's episode is definitely not one to be missed!

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One at 7.30pm. Episodes are also usually released on BBC iPlayer at 6am on the morning they are broadcast.

All the latest episodes are also available to stream on BBC iPlayer

Here's our TV tonight picks for Wednesday, September 3 (for more information about what's on TV, see our TV Guide)...

Stranded on Honeymoon Island, BBC1, 9 pm

The world of modern dating can be hit and miss at the best of times – so we certainly couldn’t imagine being stranded on a remote island for three weeks, with someone we’d only met for just five minutes! Well, that’s the challenge facing 12 ‘honeymooners’ in this new social experiment, hosted by Davina McCall, which vows to determine whether true love can thrive in isolation (aka a secluded beach in the Philippines!). Our six newly-wed couples will each have to work together to survive – but with minimal supplies, only the clothes on their backs and exes added to the mix, you just know it won’t be plain sailing... Continues until Friday.

Wednesday, Netflix

Season 2 of Tim Burton’s spooky series returns with a second serving of four episodes, picking up with Nevermore reeling from the mayhem at the psychiatric facility, Willow Hill. Wednesday Addams (Jenna Ortega) was last seen freeing inmates before being launched through a window, while her ex, Tyler Galpin (Hunter Doohan), escaped in his Hyde monster form. With Wednesday in a coma and her fate on a knife-edge, can she regain control of her psychic abilities and stop the Hyde’s rampage? Lady Gaga joins in a mysterious new role that also marks the release of a new song titled Dead Dance, while Hester Frump (Dame Joanna Lumley) continues her uproarious mentorship of Wednesday.

Long Lost Family, ITV1, 9 pm

In this emotional two-parter, Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell shine a spotlight on the impact of the practices carried out in mother and baby homes in England, where many unmarried mums gave birth in the mid-20th century before their children were adopted. Among those sharing their painful memories are Jean, who, in 1956, when she was 16, had a daughter Maria, now called Cathy. After the show’s experts trace Cathy, a poignant reunion awaits. Meanwhile, siblings Viv and Julie begin a desperate bid to help mum Margaret track down their older sister. Concludes tomorrow.

MasterChef, BBC1, 8 pm

The fifth and final heat sees the hopefuls making what they can of three different secret ingredients - vanilla, cherries and almonds - in just 45 minutes. After that, the successful ones get the chance to cook a two-course meal for the three 2010 MasterChef finalists - champion Dhruv Baker and runners-up Alex Rushmer and Tim Kinnaird.

Being stranded on a remote island with a love match you’ve only just met would be any singleton’s worst nightmare - but it’s the premise of Stranded on Honeymoon Island, BBC One’s new dating show that hopes to discover whether true love can thrive in isolation.

The 12-part series follows 12 singles looking for love as they get hitched and embark on honeymoons like no other with someone they met for just five minutes at a speed dating event!

For three weeks, our six newlywed couples will each be stranded on a remote, tropical beach in The Philippines, with no home comforts and only the clothes on their backs. Will their new love be all they need?

In an exclusive for What to Watch, host Davina McCall guides us through what people can expect...

Hi Davina, how does it feel to be playing cupid?

"Everyone knows I love reality TV and I just loved this concept; these daters are a bit older to those on other dating shows, they’re all frustrated with modern dating and this is a way of getting to know someone very well, very quickly," says the My Mum, Your Dad host. "At the speed dating event, they’d ask really deep questions, from ‘Do you want kids?’ to ‘What part of the burger would you be?’"

Do the daters really only have five minutes to get to know each other?

"Yes! Being stranded somewhere is like the greatest test of any relationship ever," says Davina. "This is a social experiment that follows people meeting in the toughest of conditions and seeing if love can flourish. It’s going to push these relationships to the very edge!

After saying 'I do', the honeymooning couples jump off a boat into the ocean to symbolise taking a ‘leap of faith’...

"Yeah, it's quite high… and quite mad," confirms Davina. "Bride Hannah was wearing a fishtail dress and I was worried about her drowning, wondering: ‘How will she kick her legs to swim? All of the honeymooners look lovely in their wedding clothes… then they arrive on this beautiful island, completely bedraggled, knowing they're going to have to wear these same clothes for three weeks!"

So it’s a survival show in more ways than one?

"Absolutely! The honeymooners’ beach homes might look lovely and exotic but they had a tough time, particularly with bugs and the weather - the sunsets in the Philippines were extraordinary but when it rained, it was biblical," says Davina. "There’s no mirrors or make-up, so the women, in particular, are stripped of everything that makes you feel comfortable, safe and attractive. Bride Mae felt she was losing something of herself; we get to see how that manifests and how her partner reacts to that."

Tell us about some of the honeymooners…

"We really get to know the couples before seeing them getting married," reveals Davina. "Like bride Helen. She’s struggling with the fact her mum has cancer and her brother has a terminal brain tumor, but she wants to find love. We see how much it means to her and we're already invested."

And where do you fit into proceedings?

"These couples are genuinely stranded. I asked the producers: ‘Can I go out to the island?’ And they replied: ‘No, that's the point of the show, they’re stranded, no one else is there!’ So, instead, I pop up intermittently via an iPad delivered in crates that wash up onto the shore, usually bringing them some sort of news, sometimes good… sometimes not so good."

And what is Couples Cove?

"Couples Cove is where each couple eventually gets to meet the other stranded honeymooners, which means reuniting with people they met speed dating that they may also have connected with," explains Davina. "Maybe the person they married wasn't their first choice - and their first choice is now at Couples Cove! This show has every twist and turn you could dream of."

Sounds like this could cause ructions...

"Our stranded honeymooners can quit the process whenever they want," says Davina, "but they have to do it in a dramatic ‘I’m done’ kind of way by releasing an emergency flare, making their departure very final. And we get a ‘flare out’ VERY early on."

How do you think you'd cope with being Stranded on Honeymoon Island?

"I'm quite low maintenance in terms of makeup but nice clothes make me feel ‘me’, so I’d want at least one other dress with me, so I can feel pretty, and I’d love a warm bath," says Davina. "I’d want some protection from the insects because I’d have a bit of a problem with them… but I’d have a whopper of a problem with the ‘open’ loo situation. No one wants to have the ‘poo chat’ that early into a relationship!"

That said, Davina admits she'd quite enjoy being stranded on a remote island with her partner, TV hair stylist Michael Douglas...

"We really get on and are both immensely practical people," she says. "He’s brilliant at DIY, building things and making things out of nothing, and I’d like to think I’d just get stuck in, too. So Michael would be the one wearing the trousers, but I would be a great ‘sous chef’; helpful, efficient, enthusiastic and happy. I'd bring the joy!"

Stranded on Honeymoon Island starts on Wednesday 3 September at 9pm on BBC1.