Made in Chelsea cast – All the stars returning for season 31
The SW3 crew are headed to the Maldives!
Things are hotting up as the Made in Chelsea gang are back on our screens for its staggering 31st season. Not only can we expect the usual drama, angst and love triangles, but we can also expect some awkward interactions as former cast member Inga Valentiner is returning to the fold. And Inga isn't the only new face this season... It's also been confirmed that Jules's brother Philip will be appearing, as well as Too Hot to Handle winner Elys Hutchinson. But who else stars in Made in Chelsea season 31? Read on to find out who has recently joined the SW3 crew! Made in Chelsea cast: All the stars returning for season 31 The following cast members have been confirmed for Made in Chelsea season 28. Alice Yaxley Angus Findlay David 'Temps' Templer Freddy Knatchbull Gareth Locke Jack Taylor James Taylor Jasmine 'Jazz' Saunders Julia 'Jules' Pollard Kabir Khurana Livvy Barker Maeva D'Ascanio Ollie Locke Paris Smith Rebecca 'Becks' Collins Sam Prince Sam Vanderpump Sophie Hermann Tabitha Willett Yasmine Zweegers Tristan Phipps Zeyno Taylan Elys Hutchinson Philip Pollard Inga Valentiner Here is what you need to know about the Made in Chelsea cast, including those who have been newly introduced. Alice Yaxley Age: 23 Instagram: @lifeofyaxx Alice Yaxley is a newcomer on Made in Chelseas season 29, with the model introduced as Sam Vanderpump's new girlfriend. "If you say something I don't agree with, I will definitely call you out on it," she teased ahead of her appearance on the series. Angus Findlay Age: 26 Instagram: @angusrfindlay Angus Findlay returned to the series last year after a three-year break and found himself in a love triangle with Tristan Phipps and Julia Pollard after she admitted she fancied Tristan. She and Angus later remained friends. Angus currently works at video production company Media Mirror. David 'Temps' Templer Age: 34 Instagram: @temp_tation Influencer and chef David "Temps" Templer, aka "The Shirtless Chef", is the long-term best friend of Miles Nazaire and the pair are constantly attached at the hip on social media. Freddy Knatchbull Age: 21 Instagram: @freddyknatchbull Freddy Knatchbull joined the cast of Made in Chelsea for season 25. A model and influencer, Freddy is also the great-grandson of Louis Mountbatten, Earl Mountbatten of Burma and a distant cousin of King Charles III. So far, Freddy has grown close to friends Miles, Yas and others. Gareth Locke Age: 36 Instagram: @garethplocke Gareth Locke is an internet personality who is married to Made in Chelsea alum Ollie Locke. The pair share twin children together. Jack Taylor Age: 22 Instagram: @jack__taylor Jack Taylor joined his older brother James in last year's Made in Chelsea. The pair are close, with James often giving Jack "a lot of advice", which Jack chooses to take with "a pinch of salt". Jack is one of the youngest cast members to appear on the show and has been described as a "kind-hearted fun individual with a dry sense of humour". The 22-year-old is also friends with Freddy Knatchbull whom he met last summer. According Channel 4, Jack and Freddy are "currently thinking of moving in together in Chelsea, whilst Jack studies Real Estate in his final year at Westminster University". James Taylor Age: 29 Instagram: @jamestaylorldn James Russell Taylor is the MIC member who tries to impress the girls with mentions of his private jet and the spa in his house. He joined the series in 2018, with his first appearance memorably being him trying to teach his friend Sam Prince how to play polo. He grew up near Saffron Walden with his parents and three siblings – sisters Kate and Libby and brother Jack who is joining this year's series. James is married to Maeva D'Ascanio and the couple share a child together. Jasmine 'Jazz' Saunders Age: 23 Instagram: @jazz.saunders Jasmine Saunders joined Made in Chelseas in season 26, and made the move to television after choosing not to pursue tennis professionally, according to Grazia. Julia 'Jules' Pollard Age: 21 Instagram: @juliafp_ While her friends know her as Muffin, Julia Pollard is a close friend of Jazz and is joined Made in Chelsea in season 28. Julia will always stand up for what she thinks is right and she got her nickname down to always giving off "super sweet energy". Kabir Khurana Age: 25 Instagram: @kabir_khurana Kabir is said to be ambitious, witty and both an agony aunt and – in his words – a "semi-retired party girl". The Philosophy graduate is a friend of Paris's, but also knows Zeyno through a mutual friend. Lauren Sintes Age: 28 Instagram: @lauren.sintes Lauren Sintes joined Made in Chelsea during season 26 and found herself in a love triangle and an argument just a few episodes into the series. Lauren is a model and has worked for the likes of ASOS and PrettyLittleThing. She is also an avid traveller and has been to Bali, Vietnam and Sydney. Livvy Barker Age: 23 Livvy is Jack Taylor's new girlfriend who is joining Made in Chelsea for season 29. She is a part-time Pilates instructor but is hoping to move into full-time modelling. Maeva D'Ascanio Age: 32 Instagram: @maevadascanio Miles Nazaire’s ex-girlfriend Maeva arrived in London – and onto our TV screens – for the 17th season of MIC. She's certainly had a tempestuous time of it since then, having fiery fallouts with everyone from Olivia Bentley to Sophie Habboo in recent seasons. Born in Paris, Maeva now lives in London and is an ambassador for luxury jewellery brand King Jewels London. She is married to James Taylor and the pair share a child together. Miles Nazaire Age: 29 Instagram: @milesjnazaire A favourite of MIC fans, half-French, half-English Miles joined the show in season 18, but left following season 19 after his ex-girlfriend Maeva D’Ascanio and his best friend James Taylor began a relationship. A graduate of the Brit School, known for famous fellow pupils such as Adele, Jessie J, Amy Winehouse and Leona Lewis, Miles returned to Chelsea from season 21 onwards. Since then, he has gone on to have various romances. Miles Nazaire took part on Dancing on Ice 2024, and made it all the way to the final! Olivia Bentley Age: 29 Instagram: @oliviabentleyk Olivia Bentley joined the series back in 2016 before she took a short break, but now she is back! The TV personality is the host of Private Parts Podcast and is the co-founder of JOMO London. Ollie Locke Age: 38 Instagram: @ollielockeworld Ollie Locke is a Made in Chelsea OG, having first appeared on the show in 2011 when it began. Ollie has appeared on and off throughout the show's history, but is back for season 29. Paris Smith Age: 24 Instagram: @ladyparissmith Paris Smith is a favourite amongst Made in Chelsea fans and is returning for season 28 of the reality TV series. Paris is a model who previously studied at The Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts. Following that, she went on to study at The Art Academy in London and as per Grazia, she completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2018. Rebecca 'Beks' Collins Instagram: @bekscollins Beks joined Made in Chelsea later on in season 28 and is Freddy Knatchbull's girlfriend. Reza Amiri-Garroussi Age: 37 Instagram: @rezamcfly Reza first appeared on Made in Chelsea when Sam Thompson introduced him as a friend and is now on the show with his (ex-)girlfriend Ruby Adler. After studying for a degree in Film and History of Art, followed by a Masters in Business and Finance at the University of Kent, Reza worked as in public relations before moving to work in technology at a company called Unruly. Prior to Corsica, Reza was seeing model Bella Sharpe but they have since split. Ruby Adler Age: 29 Instagram: @rubyadler Another newcomer in 2020, Ruby was first introduced on Made in Chelsea as Reza Amiri-Garroussi's girlfriend – though the pair would eventually split. Ruby attended the London College of Fashion for three years and now works for the famous modelling agency Storm as an agent. Sam Prince Age: 27 Instagram: @samjprince X/Twitter: @SamPrince_uk In 2017, Sam Prince was originally introduced in season 13 as a potential employee of Jamie Laing before going on to appear in the series until its Croatia run in the summer of 2018. However, Sam made a comeback last year for season 22 and has been a roguish bad boy ever since, having romantic liaisons with Liv and Verity and a relationship with Inga. He is now in a relationship with Yas Zweegers and only time will tell how their relationship continues throughout Made in Chelsea season 28. Sam Vanderpump Age: 28 Instagram: @samvanderpump Sam's surname sure rings a bell as his aunt is none other than Lisa Vanderpump, whom he is especially close with. Sam is "very confident and loves being centre stage" and is currently running his own brokerage firm after previously racing cars professionally. The 28-year-old also knows a few of the current cast members, including Reza, Tristan and Harvey. Sophie Hermann Age: 38 Instagram: @sophiehermann Sophie Hermann first appeared on Made in Chelsea in season 9 before she left to take a break. She is a fashion designer and social media influencer. Tabitha Willett Age: 33 Instagram: @tabitha.willett Tabitha Willett first appeared on Made in Chelsea in 2018 and left the following year amid her pregnancy with her first child. Yasmine Zweegers Age: 25 Instagram:@yasmine_myz Yasmine Zweegers is one of the newer members of the Made in Chelsea cast, with the Master's student working as an actor, model, entrepreneur and influencer. After studying drama and theatre at Goldsmiths, the 25-year-old started as Master's degree in acting and previously appeared on an episode of Rich Kids Go Skint. Tristan Phipps Age: 28 Instagram: @tristan.phipps Having recently split from long-term girlfriend Liv Bentley, Tristan describes himself as a bit of a thrill seeker, having done a bungee jump, worked as a safari guide in South Africa’s Kruger National Park and hiked to 4000 metres to see a volcano erupt. Zeyno Taylan Age: 24 Instagram: @zeynotaylan Zeyno Taylan joined the series last year and she was introduced as Harvey Armstrong's new girlfriend. The couple met at a party in 2024 and have been dating over the past few months. During that time, she also got to know all of his friends including Tristan and Rez. The 24-year-old has been described as "fun, spontaneous and fiercely loyal". "She loves to party and is a regular at Raffles and on a night out she likes to lead the charge." Zey currently works as a fashion stylist and is eager to get into the fashion world and get first-hand experience of how the industry works. Elys Hutchinson Age: 26 Instagram: @elys_hutchinson New to SW3, Elys is a trained ski instructor and semi-pro football player who may be familiar to some reality TV fans after winning Too Hot to Handle in 2023. Splitting her time between her family’s chalet in Villars and home in West London, she's already friends with Yas and Chuggs. Philip Pollard Age: 26 Instagram: @_phil_pollard_ If the last name sounds familiar, that's because Philip is actually the older brother of Jules and is now entering the series in his single era. He already has his eyes on Beks but isn't in a rush to settle down anytime soon. Now an exec at a tech company after a stint as a semi-professional football player, it seems as though Philip is the one to take on an older brother role, also being protective of Tristan. Inga Valentiner Age: 33 Instagram: @inga.valentiner Inga makes her return to the series after taking some time out of Made in Chelsea. The last we saw of her, she was stuck in the middle of some serious relationship drama with Yas and Sam. On her return to the series, Inga said: “Bali has been paradise, but I have been missing Chelsea! After some years away from West London, I’m ready to reunite with my pals, and meet who else has joined in on the chaos since I was in the city.” Made in Chelsea returns to E4 on Monday 16 March at 9pm, followed by the second episode on Tuesday 17 March at 9:05pm. Add Made in Chelsea to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Best series to watch on Amazon Prime Video UK – March 2026
We've sifted through the noise so you don't have to!
While Apple TV might be the streaming service best known for leveraging star power in its big drama series, shows don't come much starrier than Prime Video's latest addition, Scarpetta. The series, based on the novels by Patricia Cornwell, stars Nicole Kidman, Jamie Lee Curtis, Bobby Cannavale, Simon Baker and Ariana DeBose, with all eight episodes available to stream now. It joins other recent additions to Prime Video's platform including Steal, the tense thriller starring Sophie Turner, and steamy new series 56 Days, starring Dove Cameron and Avan Jogia. Meanwhile, the streamer continues to play host to big hits such as Fallout, Cross and Ballard, as well as comic book adaptations like The Boys and Invincible. Another series from last year, The Assassin, is also available to stream now, ahead of its recently announced second season which will once again star Freddie Highmore and Keeley Hawes. Meanwhile, the streamer continues to play host to some brilliant acquired series and co-productions, such as season 1 of The Night Manager, the thriller series which recently aired its long-awaited second season on BBC One and iPlayer in the UK. While it can be hard to work out what to watch, Radio Times have curated a selection of some of the best series currently available to stream on Prime Video – so get scrolling to find out more. Scarpetta Fans of Patricia Cornwell's Scarpetta books have been waiting a long time for them to be brought to the screen, but finally their dreams have been realised in the form of a new series starring Nicole Kidman in the title role of Dr Kay Scarpetta. Also starring Jamie Lee Curtis, Bobby Cannavale, Simon Baker and Ariana DeBose, the series follows a medical examiner who is determined to unmask a serial killer and prove that her career-making case from 28 years prior isn't also her undoing. It may not all come together in the most satisfying fashion, but the series is never dull, and with actors as talented as those at the centre of the cast, you know there's going to be some compelling performances throughout to keep you invested. 56 Days Avan Jogia and Dove Cameron lead the cast of this steamy new thriller as Oliver and Ciara, a young man and woman who fall for each other fast after a meet-cute at a supermarket. 56 days later, homicide investigators find an unidentified, intentionally decomposed body in Oliver’s apartment - but just what did happen in those 56 days, who was killed, and why? The narrative, which moves back and forth between the present day and the past 56 of Oliver and Ciara's relationship, may neither be that groundbreaking nor all that intriguing, but the central duo give winning performances, there are plenty of twists and turns along the way, and the series has atmosphere to spare. Cross This crime drama is based on the novels by James Patterson, and stars Aldis Hodge as Alex Cross, a brilliant homicide detective and forensic psychologist with an uncanny ability to get inside the minds of killers in order to stop them. Now in its second season, the new run of the show sees Matthew Lillard join the cast as billionaire business titan Lance Durand, who calls the FBI for protection after receiving a death threat. Teaming up with the FBI's Kayla Craig, Cross must uncover how the threats to Durand are linked to the murder of a billionaire playboy. It may not be the most original series, but the action is well-staged, the twists satisfying and the performances engrossing, especially from Hodge who really carries the series. Steal Sophie Turner stars in this nail-biting six-part thriller, which follows an ordinary office worker, Zara whose world is turned upside down. She finds herself at the centre of a major heist, when a gang of violent thieves burst in to her office, a pension fund investment company, and force her to execute their demands. Refreshingly small scale and focused, with a phenomenal pace and impressive performances, this is a twisty, turny thrill-ride of a series that works perfectly as a binge watch. Fallout Based on the popular video game series, Fallout follows Lucy, a young woman emerging from a nuclear bunker into a devastated world. Her journey intersects with a soldier and a bounty hunter in a post-apocalyptic Los Angeles. This sci-fi blends survival, mystery, and action in a unique setting, with the second season streaming now. The Night Manager The first season of this spy thriller based on John le Carré's beloved novel, which returned to BBC One for its long-awaited second season this year, is available to stream now on Prime Video. It stars Tom Hiddleston as Jonathan Pine, the night manager of a hotel in Cairo who is recruited to infiltrate the inner circle of arms dealer Richard Roper, played by Hugh Laurie. It's a slick, stylish adaptation with plenty of thrills and intrigue throughout. The Girlfriend When a new girlfriend comes on the scene, Robin Wright's Laura is left disarmed when she starts to spot a number of coincidences and half-truths. Is Cherry who she says she is or is she simply putting her best foot forward to become part of the wealthy family? The clever two-pronged narrative in which the series is told throws up all manner of possibilities about who is the unreliable narrator, leaving viewers speculating about the truth till the very end. Overcompensating This coming-of-age story follows American college student Benny (played by comedian Benito Skinner) as he leaves behind his high school popularity and starts anew at the fictional Yates University. There, he’s faced with a big decision: should he continue playing the frat bro type that propelled him to prom king at his previous school, or is it time to present a more authentic version of himself by coming out of the closet? It isn’t long before he befriends outsider Carmen (played by Wally Baram), who is desperate to boost her own social status after a tough time finding friends – and sees Benny as her gateway to a new life. Overcompensating has earned strong reviews from critics for its examination of the lengths that people go to in order to earn the approval of their peers, balancing youthful debauchery with heartfelt moments of genuine emotion. The first season was such a hit that a second is on the way! Hotel Costiera After spending so long pioneering a form of prestige serialised storytelling, it's interesting to see streaming platforms begin to lean more heavily on more classic TV concepts – with Hotel Costiera being a prime example. This series takes on a 'mystery-of-the-week' format while juggling a handful of overarching plot threads – in a lean 43 minutes, no less. In other words, it would have been right at home on a traditional broadcaster two decades ago. That's not an insult though! Hotel Costiera's blend of action, comedy and intrigue makes it a fun light watch; one that can easily scratch your entertainment itch if you're looking for some easy-watching escapism. Grey's Anatomy alum Jesse Williams leads the cast as former US marine Daniel DeLuca, who takes a job as a 'fixer' at a luxurious Italian hotel full of wealthy guests. As his title suggests, he'll be solving the problems of several clients during their stay, while also attempting to locate the kidnapped daughter of the venue's owner. Silly, unchallenging, but admittedly rather fun. Ballard This Bosch spin-off series had some pretty big boots to fill but with twists, turns and cliffhangers galore, Ballard has stormed onto the scene and gripped viewers almost instantly. Maggie Q heads up the series as Renée Ballard, tasked to lead the LAPD's new and underfunded cold case division. While she's determined at uncovering more about these long forgotten cases, she soon finds out that there's a wider LAPD corruption plot at play. The Assassin Keeley Hawes and Freddie Highmore lead the cast of this tense thriller as mother and son duo, Julie and Edward. A retired assassin herself, Julie hopes to repair an estranged relationship with her son when their lives are put into jeopardy and they both must work together for their survival. #1 Happy Family USA Egyptian-American comedian, writer and actor Ramy Youssef (Poor Things) joins forces with South Park legend Pam Brady for this delirious animated series, which is firmly rooted in recent history. Youssef’s work, from his stand-up to his acclaimed live-action series Ramy, has previously dealt with the uncomfortable and frightening experience of growing up in a Muslim family in the US after the 9/11 terror attacks, which led to a spike in Islamophobia in the country. This darkly comedic series takes us into the home of another Egyptian-American family, the Husseins, during that same fraught period. Seeing prejudice and misplaced suspicion all around them, well-meaning patriarch Hussein (voiced by Youssef) aspires to the status of “#1 Happy Family USA” in a series of drastic schemes that don’t go exactly to plan. Butterfly Butterfly is Prime Video's latest addition to its long catalogue of spy thrillers. Based on a series of graphic novels created by Arash Amel, the series follows David Jung (Daniel Dae Kim), a former US intelligence operative living in South Korea whose past threatens his life and his family. The Handmaid's Tale Elisabeth Moss stars in this haunting dystopian drama based on Margaret Atwood’s novel. Set in a theocratic future America where women are enslaved for reproduction, the series is both powerful and disturbing. With the sixth and final season now available, it's the perfect time to revisit or discover this harrowing saga. The Wheel of Time Based on Robert Jordan’s novels, The Wheel of Time follows sorcerer Moiraine as she leads five young people on a dangerous journey, believing one of them may be the prophesied Dragon Reborn. The show blends magic, prophecy, and epic battles in a richly imagined world. It may have been cancelled before its time, but there's still plenty to enjoy here for fans of the genre. Invincible This adult animated series centres on a teenager whose father is the world’s most powerful superhero. With its intense action and emotional depth, Invincible offers a fresh take on the superhero genre. The Boys A dark and brutal twist on the superhero narrative, The Boys explores what happens when heroes abuse their powers. Starring Karl Urban, Jack Quaid and Antony Starr, it’s a violent, satirical, and gripping watch. The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Set thousands of years before the events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, this fantasy epic explores the Second Age of Middle-earth. With stunning visuals and expansive storytelling, it’s a must-watch for fans of Tolkien's universe. I'm A Virgo From the brilliantly creative mind of Boots Riley – who wowed critics with his debut feature Sorry to Bother You – I'm A Virgo is a coming-of-age story like no other. Jharrel Jerome (When They See Us) plays a 13-foot tall 19-year-old named Cootie. He has always been hidden away due to his enormous stature, but leaps at the first opportunity to experience the world – including a meeting with his idol, known simply as The Hero (played by Walton Goggins). Critics have praised the show's satirical commentary and unique visual style, while the performances are stellar across the board. The Rig Set on the Kinloch Bravo oil rig, this mystery thriller stars Emily Hampshire and Iain Glen. When a strange fog cuts the crew off from the mainland, unexplainable occurrences begin to unfold, creating a tense and eerie atmosphere. Molly-Mae: Behind It All This documentary series follows reality TV star Molly-Mae Hague as she navigates life and motherhood following her break-up with boxer Tommy Fury. It offers an intimate look at her personal journey and public persona. A Very Royal Scandal Told from a different perspective than the earlier drama Scoop, this series revisits the infamous BBC Newsnight interview with the Duke of York. It provides a new lens on a royal controversy that captivated the public. My Lady Jane This historical fantasy reimagines the fate of Lady Jane Grey, who in this version doesn’t lose her head after nine days as queen. Instead, she seizes her destiny in a lively tale full of romance and intrigue. Fear Martin Compston, Anjli Mohindra and Solly McLeod headline this psychological thriller. A family moves to Glasgow seeking peace, only to find themselves targeted by a threatening neighbour. The series explores paranoia, fear, and the breakdown of trust. Batman: Caped Crusader An animated series created by JJ Abrams, Matt Reeves and Bruce Timm, this dark reimagining of Gotham sees Batman battling deranged criminals, including Clayface and Harley Quinn. It’s a stylish, noir-inspired take on the iconic hero. 99 This documentary series recounts Manchester United’s historic 1999 treble-winning season. A must-watch for football fans, it celebrates one of the sport’s most iconic achievements. Clarkson's Farm Jeremy Clarkson’s attempt to run a farm in the British countryside continues to amuse and surprise. The series offers both humour and insight into the challenges of modern farming. Sign up for a 30-day free trial of Prime Video and pay £8.99 a month after that. Visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what else is on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Dept Q books in order: How to read Jussi Adler-Olsen stories
Jussi Adler-Olsen’s Dept Q series is a cornerstone of modern Scandinavian crime fiction, blending dark, intricate mysteries with sardonic humour and a cast of unforgettable characters. The novels follow Detective Carl Mørck as he heads Copenhagen’s cold case division, unearthing secrets that others would rather stay buried. With the arrival of the Netflix adaptation – relocating the action to Edinburgh and bringing the stories to a new audience – there’s never been a better time to explore the original books in the order they were published. Bear in mind, the books have different titles in the UK compared to the US, so we've stuck with the UK translations here. So here’s your definitive guide to reading the Dept Q series from start to finish. Dept Q books in order: Mercy (2011) - also known as The Keeper of Lost Causes in the US Disgrace (2012) - also known as The Absent One in the US Redemption (2013) - also known as A Conspiracy of Faith in the US Guilt (2013) - also known as The Purity of Vengeance in the US Buried (2014) - also known as The Marco Effect in the US The Hanging Girl (2015) The Scarred Woman (2017) Victim 2117 (2020) The Shadow Murders (2022) Locked In (2024) Mercy (2011) The series opens with Mercy, introducing Detective Carl Mørck, who is sidelined to the newly-created Department Q after a traumatic shooting incident. Tasked with investigating cold cases, Mørck begins with the disappearance of politician Merete Lynggaard, a mystery everyone else has written off as unsolvable. This first novel establishes the series’ signature blend of psychological depth, grim humour and the complex moral landscape of Danish policing, while setting up the dynamic between Mørck and his soon-to-be indispensable assistant, Assad. Disgrace (2012) Disgrace sees Department Q handed a closed case – the brutal murder of a brother and sister two decades earlier. Although someone has confessed, Mørck is unconvinced by the official version and is drawn into a world of privilege and power. The novel deepens the partnership between Mørck and Assad, and introduces themes of institutional failure and the long reach of past sins. Redemption (2013) A cryptic message in a bottle, written in blood, lands on Mørck’s desk and launches Department Q into a harrowing investigation involving missing children and a chilling serial killer. Redemption is a turning point for the series, raising the stakes and expanding the team with the arrival of Rose, whose own backstory and sharp wit add new layers to the group dynamic. A relentless read. Guilt (2013) Guilt sees Mørck and his team drawn into a decades-old disappearance that soon reveals a pattern of vanished individuals and a sinister web of abuse and revenge. The investigation forces Mørck to confront his own past as well as the consequences of institutional neglect. This instalment stands out for its exploration of vengeance, justice, and the cost of unaddressed pain. Buried (2014) In Buried, Department Q investigates the case of a missing civil servant, presumed dead after returning from Africa, only to find that the answers may lie much closer to home. The novel introduces Marco, a streetwise teenager on the run, who becomes central to the investigation. The story weaves together themes of corruption, exploitation, and the resilience of those society overlooks, while giving the team one of their most challenging cases yet. The Hanging Girl (2015) A call from the Danish island of Bornholm draws Mørck and his team into the cold case of a 17-year-old girl found hanging in a tree. What begins as a local tragedy soon links to a shadowy cult and a series of new murders. The Hanging Girl is notable for its atmospheric setting and the way it pushes each member of Department Q to their limits, both professionally and personally. The Scarred Woman (2017) The Scarred Woman finds Department Q threatened with closure, with the team under pressure to deliver results. When the murder of an elderly woman in a Copenhagen park echoes an older unsolved case, and a series of attacks on young women rocks the city, Mørck and his colleagues must work against the clock. The novel delves deeply into Rose’s troubled past, making it one of the most personal and emotionally charged entries in the series. Victim 2117 (2020) The eighth novel, Victim 2117, brings the refugee crisis to the heart of Department Q’s work. The death of an unnamed refugee in the Mediterranean becomes the catalyst for a sprawling investigation with international implications – and a direct link to Assad’s own hidden history. This is a deeply political and personal story, broadening the scope of the series and revealing new details about the central characters. The Shadow Murders (2022) On her 60th birthday, a woman’s apparent suicide draws Mørck and his team into a labyrinthine case spanning three decades. As they connect a series of mysterious deaths, it becomes clear they’re dealing with a calculating murderer who has evaded justice for years. The Shadow Murders is the penultimate book, raising the tension and pushing the team to the brink as secrets from the past threaten to destroy them. Locked In (2024) The series concludes with Locked In, where Carl Mørck finds himself imprisoned, framed for crimes he did not commit, and with a bounty on his head. Department Q is fractured, trust is in short supply and the team must race against time to clear Mørck’s name and expose the true mastermind. This final entry is both a culmination of long-running threads and a high-stakes thriller, offering a fitting send-off to one of crime fiction’s most compelling teams. How to get started The best way to experience Dept Q is to read the novels in publication order, as each book builds on the last and the characters’ personal journeys are as important as the cases themselves. Whether you’re coming to the series fresh from the Netflix adaptation or are a returning fan, it doesn't matter – Jussi Adler-Olsen’s Dept Q series is sharp enough for all-comers. Now get to it... For all the latest RT Book Club news, interviews, Q&As with the authors, reviews of previous books and more, visit The Radio Times Book Club. Looking for more reading recommendations? Join the Radio Times Book Club here - we offer 3-month or 6-month memberships as well as monthly or quarterly subscriptions where you'll receive a new hardback chosen by the RT team delivered directly to your door!
Harriet Tyce: 'No jury in the land would be able to crack The Traitors'
Tyce talks Witch Trial, her latest book out now – and it's unintentional link to The Traitors.
It's been quite the year already for Harriet Tyce. Fresh off an iconic stint on The Traitors where she put the cat among the pigeons in an explosive episode, Tyce has now returned to the day job – writing crime novels. Her first, Blood Orange, was published in 2019 and immediately climbed charts and placed her firmly in the batch of exciting crime writers to watch out for. But it's her latest novel Witch Trial, which is out today (Thursday 26 February), that's got the most attention. "It's always an exciting time [around publication]. I have to say this time it's like it's on steroids. It's been amplified so much," Tyce tells Radio Times a couple of days before her novel is published. Witch Trial tells the story of two girls who are on trial for the murder of their best friend, Christian. As the trial begins, the story is uncovered through the eyes of the jury who can barely comprehend the story they're being told – and when it takes a supernatural turn, it makes us question everything. "My editor at the time suggested I write a book about teenage serial killers. I wasn't so much interested in a serial killer, but a teenage defendant stuck in my head," Tyce explains about the origins of the novel. "I had become very interested in the idea of jurors, in what each individual person brings to the jury room. And the third bit of the puzzle that was missing was the supernatural element, which came from going to see a production of The Crucible. "I've never done anything with a supernatural element before and I've always been terrified of that kind of thing. It was frightening but it was an interesting frightening because I was looking at subject matters I knew nothing about – and that always brings a level of excitement as well, to embark on a completely new topic." A dark puzzle set in Scotland, supernatural presence and an unlikely bunch of people coming together to determine if someone is guilty or not? Sounds an awful lot like Tyce's recent turn on The Traitors. She laughs. "The mad and crazy thing is that I handed in a near-complete first draft on Halloween of 2024 and I put my application in for The Traitors in mid-December! There were six weeks clear water. "I mean, I've obviously loved the show from the beginning and I'm fascinated by its tropes and the whole Gothic supernatural – of course at some point it was going to play into a book. "While 'zeitgeist' is an awful word, I think there have been a lot of books and films which are part of that, so it's not actually that spooky a coincidence that I'd write a book that falls on some of the tropes. The weird bit is that I actually got onto the show." The Traitors cast do act as a would-be jury as Tyce thoroughly explores in Witch Trial throughout the show with the Faithfuls desperately searching to find those pesky Traitors - though her fictional characters get a lot more evidence than they do on the TV show. "The thing about the roundtable is that all you can go on is your best instincts - your best instincts when we have no actual evidence can be very, very tough... no jury in the land would be able to perform on what you actually have to go on in The Traitors because there's just nothing. "It turned out I had a good gut instinct, but I don't think gut instinct is good enough when it comes to actually finding someone properly guilty of an offence..." Tyce is keen to keep playing in the supernatural space, perhaps with a follow-up to Witch Trial. And her Traitors experience is already seeping into her authorial world, too. "I was fascinated by how real it became to me; it was my life. We were all living in it. It’s incredibly clever, the way they set the scene and keep you in an isolated space where you don’t have to think about anything except playing the game. "You know perfectly well it’s a game – of course it’s a game – but when you’re there day after day, it does feel a little bit life or death. I’m quite interested in the idea of what happens if you don’t snap out of it." It’s been a very rich year for Tyce – and, if her readers are lucky, many of those experiences will find their way into a future thriller. On my bookshelf with... Harriet Tyce The book that made me want to be an author... was reading a series of books by Dorothy L Sayers, featuring Harriet Vane. Detective fiction and crime fiction are brilliant. The book I wish I'd written... was David Nichols's One Day. The thing about it is that it's genius in its simplicity – something is just such a brilliant idea and you can't think how nobody had thought of it before, but they didn't and he did. That would've been great. And the adaptation was so painfully done; I cried buckets watching it. The book I'd recommend to anyone... is Rivals by Jilly Cooper in order to get people to transcend any snobbery of genre. It's just such a cracking read, it's so much fun – and again, we can see from the brilliant adaptation. The books I'm reading right now... are the diaries of Helen Garner (it's made me very nostalgic for a world before phones when we wrote letters!). I'm a judge for the Crime Writers' Association so I'm reading lots of collections of short stories by crime writers, and a book called Blank Canvas by Grace Murray. It's about a girl at college who has told a lie that her father is dead. It's very good but it's written by someone who's just a year older than my son, and that is bothering my deeply! For all the latest RT Book Club news, interviews, Q&As with the authors, reviews of previous books and more, visit The Radio Times Book Club. Looking for more reading recommendations? Join the Radio Times Book Club here - we offer 3-month or 6-month memberships as well as monthly or quarterly subscriptions where you'll receive a new hardback chosen by the RT team delivered directly to your door!
What happened to Penny Branning on EastEnders and how is Jack responsible?
Jack has been left guilt-ridden over her pregnancy.
Penny Branning (Kitty Castledine) is at the centre of a major new EastEnders storyline, that has seen her fall pregnant with Vinny Panesar's (Shiv Jalota) baby. The daughter of Jack Branning (Scott Maslen) is certainly a firecracker of a character, but recent episodes have shown a more vulnerable side. She revealed to cousin Lauren Beale (Jacqueline Jossa) that she'd never envisioned herself as a mother as a result of her disability. Unfortunately, Jack put his foot in it and agreed with her concerns, and the two shared an emotional heart-to-heart about her life-changing injuries. Penny was first introduced in 2008, though there was quite a lengthy absence before she returned in 2024 – so you may be forgiven for forgetting some of the finer character details. Read on to find out what happened to Penny Branning, how Jack is responsible, who her mum is, and who plays her on EastEnders. Penny Branning's backstory - what happened to her? Penny Branning is the daughter of Jack Branning and Selina Branning. She is the half-sister of Amy Mitchell (Ellie Dadd), Ricky Branning (Frankie Day) and the late James Branning. Although she was born in 1998 on the show, she was first seen on-screen in 2008, when she was played by Seven Dials and Tracy Beaker Returns actress Mia McKenna-Bruce. The star is also set to play Maureen Starkey in the upcoming The Beatles biopics. Penny is a wheelchair user, as a result of a terrible accident she suffered as a child. This took place off-screen. When Jack and Selina were together, he caught a drug dealer who then hit Penny with his car in an act of revenge. It left Penny's spine damaged, and as a result, she needs to use a wheelchair. When she arrived back in Albert Square in 2008, Jack tried to reconnect with his daughter and her mother by taking them out for her birthday. Add Radio Times as a Preferred Source on Google Keep up to date on what’s worth watching with your favourite entertainment news from Radio Times – see more of our exclusive news and interviews featured prominently in Top Stories when using Google. But when he wasn't there the next morning, Penny was devastated, and Selina decided it would be better for her if they moved to France and away from Jack. Penny visited later in the year, and though she didn't get on with Jack's girlfriend Ronnie Mitchell (Samantha Womack), she did connect with his sister-in-law Tanya Branning (Jo Joyner), and contemplated staying in Walford with her. However, Jack persuaded her to go back to France and be with her mum. After that, Penny had a few mentions, until she was finally seen back on-screen (portrayed by a different actress, Kitty Castledine) still in Paris. It was revealed she's been up to no good, having become a drugs pusher, which resulted in Lauren getting arrested on New Year's Day 2024. Who is Penny Branning's mum? Selina Branning is Penny Branning's mum. She was the first wife of Jack Branning, and they were married for 10 years between 1997 and 2007. She appeared in just 5 episodes between January and April 2008, and was played by Daisy Beaumont. Who plays Penny Branning now? Kitty Castledine has played Penny Branning in 143 episodes of EastEnders since January 2024. Castledine has a very famous mum - Lucy Alexander, who used to present Homes Under the Hammer. Her dad is famous, too, as an ex-Premier League footballer, Stewart Castledine. Before EastEnders, Castledine had a role in The Break as Katy. Read more: 5 EastEnders spoilers next week: Clare Bates's emotional return and Max Branning seeks revenge EastEnders finally confirms emotional return after 18 years for Nigel’s dementia storyline EastEnders' Callum Highway fears for his future after incriminating Ben Mitchell scam in BBC iPlayer release Visit our dedicated EastEnders page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Add EastEnders to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
ITV confirms The British Soap Awards will not return to air in 2026
The British Soap Awards returned in 2025 after a one-year break.
ITV has today (Wednesday 11th February) confirmed that The British Soap Awards will not air in 2026. An ITV spokesperson exclusively told Radio Times: "The British Soap Awards is taking a break and won't be on air in 2026." The awards last aired in 2025, after taking a one-year break, where EastEnders was crowned the Best Soap, taking the lion's share of the awards on the night, too. The host of the previous two ceremonies was presenter and singer Jane McDonald. It's been a bumper year for all the soaps, most notably ITV's, with its groundbreaking Corriedale kicking off the new year in style, gaining 5.9 million viewers – the biggest audience ITV had in January. ITV wasn't the only soap to do a crossover after Hollyoaks celebrated its 30th birthday with a crossover episode with Brookside. Over on EastEnders, returns of classic characters like Zoe Slater (Michelle Ryan) and Max Branning (Jake Wood) saw exciting storylines and a tantalising flash-forward to more drama in 2027. In 2024, we ran the RadioTimes.com Soap Awards, celebrating the best storylines of that year – you can see all the fun from the night here. Emmerdale spoilers next week – Bear Wolf arrested as Laurel Thomas learns a shocking secret: View Green Video on the source website Read more: 9 Coronation Street spoilers next week: Murder victim revealed in special flash-forward episode Coronation Street to kill classic character off-screen next month over 35 years after debut 5 EastEnders spoilers next week: Shock arrest made after Anthony Trueman's funeral, as Max Branning professes his feelings EastEnders' Kat Moon and Vicki Fowler make risky move to secure Zoe's freedom in BBC iPlayer release Emmerdale reveals Victoria Sugden's exit story following vicious ultimatum in early ITVX release 5 Emmerdale spoilers next week: Bear Wolf arrested as Laurel Thomas learns a shocking secret Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Best series to watch on Disney Plus – February 2026
Don't endlessly scroll – use our handy list instead!
There have been so many Marvel shows debuting on Disney+ over the last few years, that you may be struggling to keep track. However, one that is definitely worth your time, which was released in January of this year, is Wonder Man, the eight-part series starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Ben Kingsley. While Kingsley reprises his role of Trevor Slattery from Iron Man 3 and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Abdul-Mateen plays Simon Williams, an actor trying to get a role in a new superhero reboot film - and desperate to hide that he himself has superpowers. The series joins the rest of the Marvel Cinematic Universe's back catalogue on Disney+, along with other franchise fare such as the many Star Wars shows. However, that isn't all the streamer is known for. It is also home to original series such as Steven Knight's Victorian-era boxing drama, A Thousand Blows, UK thriller series The Stolen Girl and soapy comedy-drama Rivals. Meanwhile, there's also a slew of ITV dramas and reality shows available to stream on the platform, thanks to a landmark agreement between Disney+ and ITVX. There's the likes of Red Eye, Professor T, Love Island and a lot more to get acquainted with, if you missed out on watching them when initially broadcast. Of course, that's just scratching the surface. There are also procedural crime dramas like Tracker, true crime dramas like Murdaugh: Death in the Family, comedy-dramas such as Only Murders in the Building, fantastical period dramas like Washington Black and twisting, turning romantic shows such as Tell Me Lies. Read on for a selection of the standout shows currently available to stream on Disney+ – courtesy of Radio Times. Wonder Man Yahya Abdul-Mateen II leads this low-key Marvel show as Simon Williams, a struggling actor desperate to land the lead role in a superhero reboot film, Wonder Man. Along the way, he meets and becomes friends with Trevor Slattery, the character played by Sir Ben Kingsley, and the two ride the wave of self-tapes and auditions together. All the while, Simon is hiding something - he has superpowers, which, if ever revealed, who mean he could never get another role in Hollywood again. With the episodes landing at around half an hour, this is a highly bingeable show, one with a light, funny tone, but which isn't afraid to delve into more serious topics or address the central character's inner psyche. It wears its superhero credentials lightly - something anyone suffering from superhero fatigue is likely to appreciate - and instead acts as a character drama, one with a delightful friendship at its core. Perhaps best of all, no prior MCU knowledge is required. There are references to past projects, but everything is well-explained, meaning this series, which falls under the Marvel Spotlight banner, feels truly standalone. A Thousand Blows The second season of this Victorian era boxing drama, which comes from Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, is now available to stream, reuniting cast members Malachi Kirby, Erin Doherty and Stephen Graham. The first season followed a newly immigrated man from Jamaica, Hezekiah Moscow, who had dreams of being a lion tamer, but found himself making a mark on the underground boxing scene in the East End of London. Season 2 picks up with Hezekiah and his former rival Sugar Goodson both at rock bottom, but finding themselves part of Mary Carr's latest scheme, when she returns to town looking to reclaim her crown as Queen of the Forty Elephants. Featuring stunning production design and costuming, phenomenal central performances and a plot which is endlessly engaging as it twists and turns, the series may at times have pacing issues, but otherwise this is another top tier drama from Knight, the master of gritty period dramas which still retain a contemporary feel. Tracker A fresh take on the procedural drama format, Tracker follows Colter Shaw (This Is Us star Justin Hartley), a skilled survivalist and tracker who earns a living helping out clients and law enforcement for reward money. Now in its third season, the stakes remain ever higher as the stack of crimes and missing persons cases continue to grow, with Shaw also balancing his own complicated personal family issues. Murdaugh: Death in the Family It's one of the most perplexing true crime stories and was covered in Netflix's very own documentary series, but this dramatisation seeks to bring the story to a whole new audience. Starring the likes of Patricia Arquette and Jason Clarke, the new drama follows the story of the rich Southern family who were part of one of South Carolina's most powerful legal dynasties. But their life starts to unravel when their youngest son Paul is involved in a fatal boat crash, which proves to be just the start of a six-year string of heartbreaking incidents that leave many dead. If you've already watched the documentary and are familiar with the case, this drama digs a little deeper into some of the interpersonal dynamics and fictionalises scenes, painting a wider picture of this once illustrious family. Marvel Zombies This animated miniseries has been a long time coming, spawning out of a popular episode in the very first season of Marvel's What If...?, which debuted all the way back in the summer of 2021. That fateful chapter imagined a nightmarish parallel universe in which the heroes of the Marvel Cinematic Universe are transformed into ravenous flesh-eating undead – that is, all but a scrappy band of survivors. Among the group is Shang-Chi (Simu Liu), Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Ms Marvel (Iman Vellani) and Kate Bishop (Hailee Steinfeld), with plenty more favourites appearing among the brainless hordes they have to fend off. Across four episodes, expect a whistle-stop tour of the post-apocalyptic landscape and a suspenseful story as our underdog crew attempt to turn the tide on their twisted fate. Parents be warned: it's rated 16 and over! The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox The story of Amanda Knox – who, in 2007, was wrongly accused and later convicted of the murder of fellow student – is arguably one of the most controversial cases of the last 20 years, and this dramatisation seeks to shine new light on the saga. Executed produced by Knox herself – and based on her own memoir – the series stars Nine Perfect Strangers and Tell Me Lies star Grace Van Patten in the title role, and examines Knox's mental state during the traumatic ordeal. It also asks broader questions about the media coverage and public reaction to the case, with the episodes releasing weekly on the platform until the finale on 1st October 2025. Only Murders in the Building This comedy-mystery series – which stars Martin Short, Steve Martin and Selena Gomez as three true-crime enthusiasts who keep find themselves at the centre of a real murder cases – recently returned for its fifth season. The witty and engaging series has emerged as a fan favourite for good reason, which each season adding more and more big names to its cast – with Oscar winners Renée Zellweger and Christoph Waltz among the latest A-listers to follow in the footsteps of Paul Rudd, Meryl Streep and the rest. Season 5 sees the lead trio investigate the suspected murder of their building's old doorman Lester, which once again takes them to some pretty dangerous places.... Alien: Earth Fargo and Legion creator Noah Hawley brings us this new eight-part series, which marks a number of firsts for the Alien franchise. Not only is it the first series in the horror franchise, but it also sees us visit this universe's version of Earth for the first time, and centres around the first ever hybrids – human children whose minds have been uploaded to synthetic bodies. Leading the cast as one of these hybrids, Wendy, is Sydney Chandler, who gives a stellar performance as the character who is coming to terms with her new existence. Also in key roles are the likes of Timothy Olyphant, Alex Lawther and Babou Ceesay. The series has a lot on its mind, with plenty of ruminations on humanity, AI and capitalism, but that doesn't mean it doesn't still also feature its fair share of action and gore. In fact, not only do the xenomorphs feature front and centre, but the show also introduces a collection of new creepy creatures as additions to the Alien mythos. Eyes of Wakanda This latest series from Marvel Animation has been executive produced by Ryan Coogler, and looks to expand the world of Wakanda that he introduced us to in both Black Panther and its sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The four-part season follows a host of different characters, and tells different stories from throughout the nation's history. Its anthology structure with only minor connections means fans can dip in and out of episodes, and they don't need to have any prior knowledge of other MCU projects. Instead, they can simply enjoy some fun historical tales, allow themselves to be seeped in the world of Wakanda, and to enjoy some stunning animation. Washington Black Newly added to Disney+, the streamer brings Esi Edugyan's celebrated novel Washington Black to screen. The story follows the epic journey of a former slave as he is taken under his wing by an eccentric inventor. In the series, viewers visit Washington Black in two points of his life, as a child (played by Eddie Karanja) and as a young man (played by Ernest Kingsley Jr). Alongside the the two leads are TV staples Tom Ellis and Sterling K Brown, who co-star as Titch Wilde and Medwin Harris, two older men who serve as mentors to the titular character at pivotal stages of his life. Shōgun This epic historical drama was original billed as a limited series, but after it went on to receive critical acclaim and a substantial number of awards, it's perhaps no surprise that it is now returning for a second and third season. Based on James Clavell's 1975 novel of the same name, it follows John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis), an English sailor who gets shipwrecked off the coat of Japan, and Lord Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada), a ruler facing off dangerous rivals. With breathtaking scope and compelling central performances, it's a drama unlike almost any other we've seen on TV. Ironheart Ryan Coogler's recent work on Sinners has certainly catapulted the filmmaker onto more people's radars, but of course, Coogler has long been known as the brains behind Black Panther and its sequel, Wakanda Forever. Coogler takes on an executive producer role in this new series, which takes place after the events of the second film. Focusing on young inventor Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne), she is determined to make her mark on the world but soon becomes enraptured with the charming Parker Robbins aka 'the Hood' (Anthony Ramos). Rivals Across eight episodes, we're taken on a sex-filled jaunt through the '80s as we're propelled into the world of independent television. Sure, most people who don't work within that industry won't know the ins and outs of what it takes to be a big broadcaster, but, like any good series, Rivals chucks us headfirst into the world of TV by way of more relatable themes such as loyalty, power and greed. In a world obsessed with monetary value and male-dominated workplaces, Rivals creates this shiny fictional setting that isn't actually too far off the mark of reality. Rematch This six-part drama revisits the landmark 1997 chess showdown between world champion Garry Kasparov and IBM’s supercomputer Deep Blue. Christian Cooke stars as Kasparov, capturing the intensity and psychological warfare of a man facing off against a machine designed to defeat him. With scenes set inside both the tech giant’s inner sanctum and Kasparov’s personal world, Rematch explores the human cost of technological ambition and the dawning age of artificial intelligence. A compelling watch with real-world resonance. Andor A standout in the Star Wars universe, Andor follows Cassian Andor in the early days of the rebellion. The series explores his transformation into the hardened operative later seen in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Not only does it delve into the origins of the resistance, but it also offers a compelling look at the inner workings and cruelty of the Empire. The Stolen Girl This five-part psychological thriller stars Denise Gough as Elisa Blix, a mother whose daughter vanishes after a sleepover. What begins as a simple playdate spirals into a chilling mystery when the host's home turns out to be a rental and all traces of them disappear. The series is a must-watch for fans of intense, emotional crime dramas. Daredevil: Born Again Charlie Cox returns as Matt Murdock, the blind lawyer who moonlights as the vigilante Daredevil. In this action-packed Marvel series, Murdock confronts crime lord Wilson Fisk, who is attempting to take over New York City through political power. The series combines legal drama with superhero action and personal stakes. Paradise Paradise is a political thriller centred on a Secret Service agent who becomes a suspect in the sudden death of the US president. With a strong cast and a tense storyline, the show offers a gripping narrative full of twists and intrigue. High Potential <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/01/1719751564V4-40e7aab.jpg" width="3000" height="2001" alt="Judy Reyes as Selena, Javicia Leslie as Daphne, Deniz Akdeniz as Lev 'Oz' Osman, Daniel Sunjata as Karadec, Kaitlin Olson as Morgan, Amirah J as Ava and Matthew Lamb as Elliot in High Potential in a police office" title="JUDY REYES, JAVICIA LESLIE, DENIZ AKDENIZ, DANIEL SUNJATA, KAITLIN OLSON, AMIRAH J, MATTHEW LAMB" /> Inspired by the French-Belgian series HPI, this drama follows Morgan, a cleaner with a genius IQ who becomes a consultant for the LAPD. Her unorthodox methods and sharp mind shake up the department, leading to both friction and breakthroughs in criminal investigations. Star Wars: Skeleton Crew Set in the Star Wars universe, this series follows a group of children lost in space. The synopsis reads: reads: "When four kids make a mysterious discovery on their seemingly safe home planet, they get lost in a strange and dangerous galaxy." Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man This animated series offers a new take on the beloved superhero, adding to Disney+’s growing collection of Marvel content suitable for younger audiences while still proving engaging for long-time fans. Say Nothing Based on Patrick Radden Keefe’s best-selling book, this historical drama explores Northern Ireland during The Troubles. It begins with the 1972 disappearance of Jean McConville and spans four decades, examining the lives affected by the conflict. Agatha All Along A spin-off from WandaVision, this series follows Agatha Harkness as she attempts to reclaim her powers. Teaming up with a cursed teenager and assembling a coven, Agatha navigates a magical gauntlet in a fantastical journey through the Witches’ Road. Loki The God of Mischief returns in this time-hopping Marvel series. Loki is recruited by an organisation to track down a dangerous variant disrupting the timeline, leading to a mix of action, humour and existential questions. The Bear In this comedy-drama, a celebrated chef returns to Chicago to take over his family's struggling sandwich shop. The series explores grief, ambition, and the chaos of the culinary world with sharp writing and strong performances. Shardlake Set in Tudor England, this four-part thriller follows lawyer Matthew Shardlake as he investigates a murder in a remote monastery. Working under Thomas Cromwell, Shardlake must navigate hostility and secrecy to uncover the truth. X-Men '97 Reviving the beloved 1990s animated series, X-Men '97 picks up after the loss of Professor Xavier. The remaining X-Men face new threats and internal divisions as they fight to protect a world that fears them. Atlanta There aren't quite words to describe the rollercoaster journey of Atlanta, the surrealist comedy-drama that initially premiered on FX back in 2016. Created and starring Donald Glover, the cast is positively star-studded with the ensemble including Brian Tyree Henry, LaKeith Stanfield and Zazie Beetz, as well as appearances from the likes of Liam Neeson, Alexander Skarsgård and songwriter Jai Paul. Generally, the series focuses on Earn (Glover) and Al's (Henry) journey to hip-hop stardom, shining a light on the hurdles they face in the industry. Really though, the series is known for its short storytelling capabilities, catapulting viewers into various plots that examine race, identity and class and also boasting plenty of standalone episodes that will linger with you long after watching. Karen Pirie While originally a release on ITV, as part of the cross-streamer collaboration, Disney+ is now home to crime drama Karen Pirie. Adapted from Val McDermid's novels, the series follows the titular character who has been promoted to Police Scotland's Historic Cases Unit, and in season 1, she reopens the cold case of a murdered barmaid and soon unearths flaws in the original 1995 inquiry. Mr Bates vs the Post Office This four-part drama originally aired on ITV last year, and since its release, it has continued to show just how dramas are often the perfect medium to affect change when it comes to real-world issues. Since its release, there has been all kinds of justice that has prevailed (as well as awards for the show). The sympathy-inducing series lays out the raw human emotions at the heart of the submostpasters and mistresses' plight, exposing the scandal of many being wrongly accused of fraud and theft due to errors caused by a faulty IT system. With scene-stealing performances from the likes of Toby Jones, Monica Dolan and Will Mellor, you'll be hard pressed not to feel incensed after watching. Tell Me Lies It's easy to discount Tell Me Lies as nothing more than a series geared towards young adults and teenagers, but actually, if you're on the hunt for the kind of series that's all too easy to binge-watch, this is precisely the one for you. The central premise revolves around the intoxicating relationship between Lucy Albright (Grace Van Patten) and Stephen DeMarco (Jackson White), who go from lovestruck college students to adults, with things in the present remaining ever tense between them. But what happened in their younger years? When tragedy occurs, it rocks them both and all of those around them. You can sign up to Disney+ from £5.99 a month now. Visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what else is on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
The Gruffalo series to get sequel with new character – more than 20 years after last instalment
Beloved children's author Julia Donaldson has confirmed she has written a new story about her iconic character, the Gruffalo, and will be introducing a new character. Gruffalo Granny will mark the third book in the series about the creature and his family and friends, and currently is due for release in September. As previously, it will be illustrated by long-term collaborator, Axel Scheffler. Donaldson made the exciting announcement during an appearance on BBC Radio 4's Today programme (Friday 6th February), saying: "It'a always a challenge to write a sequel. I've had this idea for the best part of two decades but I've just been so busy writing other things. And now of course I'm a granny myself, so maybe that's what spurred me on..." Scheffler added: "I've been saying for more than 20 years there wouldn't be a sequel, and it's taught me to never say never. It was a complete surprise for me, but Julia came up with such a wonderful story and I got very excited about it." The Fox, Snake, Owl and Mouse will all return for the sequel. So far, one line has been revealed: "The Gruffalo said to his daughter one day, your Gruffalo Granny is coming to stay." The Gruffalo was first published in 1999, with The Gruffalo's Child following five years later. It was turned into a short film for the BBC by Magic Light Pictures in 2009, with a star-studded cast made up of Helena Bonham Carter, Rob Brydon, James Corden and more. The film would go on to be nominated for Best Animated Short Film at the 83rd Academy Awards. The Gruffalo's Child was adapted in 2011 with the same cast returning. The Gruffalo's Granny will be released on 10th September 2026. You can pre-order it here. For all the latest RT Book Club news, interviews, Q&As with the authors, reviews of previous books and more, visit The Radio Times Book Club. Looking for more reading recommendations? Join the Radio Times Book Club here - we offer 3-month or 6-month memberships as well as monthly or quarterly subscriptions where you'll receive a new hardback chosen by the RT team delivered directly to your door!
Jade from The Traitors reveals which video games she played to prepare – and it’s not the one you’d expect
Jade Scott made it to the final of The Traitors season 4, and she made no secret of her video game experience in the show’s candid pieces to camera. So, here at Radio Times Gaming, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to get on the phone with Jade and find out which games she played in preparation. Surprisingly, Jade didn’t name Among Us — for many, the definitive game like The Traitors — on her list of favourites, noting that she finds it “a bit childish”. What did she play, then? As Jade told us: “I was playing a lot of social deception games. So I played a lot of Project Winter, [which is] a bit different.” Project Winter, if you were wondering, is an 8-player survival game where players have to handle traitorous social situations as well as the deadly weather. Jade continued: “I've never really played Among Us. I just find it a bit childish. That said, I was playing a lot of Dale & Dawson, which was so unserious.” Dale & Dawson: Stationary Supplies can support anywhere from four to 21 players, and it tasks managers and specialists with spotting the slackers in their workforce (and firing them). And did Jade find that her gaming experience really helped in the castle? In Jade’s words: “I think gaming, there's a level of communication needed, especially in teamwork games, right? And you're always talking, whether to your friends, or you are always speaking to teammates that you get allocated with. “I think that helped a lot, especially when I was speaking at the roundtables. Like, I didn't quite realise... it's one thing to speak and it's another thing to watch yourself back when you speak, so that was actually really, really nice to see. “And also, I managed to hit one of the vases with the rocks, so I think that was where my hand eye coordination came in.” Since returning from The Traitors castle, however, Jade’s gaming habits have changed a little. As she puts it: "After coming back, I was kind of like, 'I need a break from social deception games'. So, at the moment, I'm really into my indie games. “I just finished Outer Wilds, so I'm enjoying big story puzzle games. I like Chants of Sennaar, as well.” Outer Wilds is a sci-fi game with a time loop, where the player must solve a mystery in between frequent deaths. Chants of Sennaar, meanwhile, is all about language, with the player tasked with piecing together a linguistic puzzle. So, there you have it, a bunch of video game recommendations from Jade herself! And if they can help her get to The Traitors final, perhaps you should give them a go too? Read more: The Traitors finalist reveals what shocked her most about 2026 series - and what her strategy was all along Add The Traitors to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Gaming coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
The Traitors finalist reveals what shocked her most about 2026 series - and what her strategy was all along
Warning: spoilers ahead for The Traitors finale.
It's been an epic run of The Traitors and no one had more of a rollercoaster journey on it than Jade Scott. Throughout pretty much every episode of the thrilling fourth season, Jade had heat on her from various contestants - despite being a Faithful the whole time, unlike the victorious Traitors Rachel and Stephen. In an exclusive chat with RadioTimes.com following the explosive finale, Jade confirmed that it was her plan to have suspicion on her the whole time. "My strategy was always to go in and get some suspicion on me because I think that keeps you in the game," the student explained. "If you're too faithful, you get murdered. And you don't really get a say [in front of the cast] if you get murdered, but you can have a say before you get banished to try and convince people not to... "But I think with the way the game played out, there was too much suspicion!" Jade continued, speaking of particularly getting so much heat on her: "I wanted to stay in to do the missions because they're so much fun, and I didn't want to leave because it's so cool. I was trying to strategise and figure out, 'OK, how can I use this to my advantage?' But that just meant all my focus was on that and I had no capacity left to catch Traitors." Now she's had the chance to watch it back, Jade explained she was completely surprised by the Secret Traitor twist. She added: "I was screaming at the TV for me to get it together when I watched it back from the first episode. I was very shy at the start and it took me a while to feel comfortable and get out of my shell. I did so much growth while I was away which was really nice to see. "Watching different conversations that were taking place was really cool, as were the missions. It's so much fun." Jade was happy with her game in the end, and confirmed she wouldn't have changed anything - and even if she had the chance again she would have chosen to be a Faithful. "I love trying to solve puzzles, it's my favourite thing, and that's what Faithfuls do. It's not easy by any means because you go in with a bunch of strangers who are so different and wonderful. I'm happy with my decisions." Read more: The Traitors season 4 fashion: Where can you buy all the iconic outfits? Add The Traitors to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
26 book-to-screen adaptations in 2026: Including contentious Brontë film and Frankenstein (but not as you know it)
From BookTok to classics, there's a wealth of great books being adapted this year.
Film and TV makers are increasingly looking to page-turning books for their inspiration for stories to tell - and why shouldn't they? There's a wealth of gripping plots and twists just waiting to be projected onto the big (and small) screen. This year, there's set to be a plethora of delightful book-to-screen adaptations for us to enjoy, with classics like Mary Shelley's Frankenstein being adapted (again... but not as you'd think), and of course, Emerald Fennell's already-contentious Wuthering Heights film. For those over on TikTok, there are a few titles coming up you'll definitely recognise from #BookTok, like Colleen Hoover's Reminders of Him and Verity, among others. The best bit of all? We've rounded up the hottest adaptations coming to the big and small screens in 2026 - so you can read the books in good time. Make sure to keep this page bookmarked in case any new adaptations are slotted into the release schedule. TV and film adaptations in 2026 Agatha Christie's Seven Dials - out now A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms - out now H is for Hawk - out now Hamnet - out now His and Hers - out now People We Meet on Vacation - out now Bridgerton season 4 - 29th January Wuthering Heights - 13th February Outlander season 8 - 6th March The Bride! - 6th March Scarpetta - 11th March Reminders of Him - 13th March Imperfect Women - 18th March Project Hail Mary - 20th March Margo's Got Money Troubles - 15th April Remarkably Bright Creatures - 8th May The Odyssey - 17th July The Book of Magic - 28th September Verity - 2nd October Remain - 23rd October Sunrise on the Reaping - 20th November Dune: Part Three - 18th December Carrie - TBC Pride & Prejudice - TBC The Love Hypothesis - TBC The Other Bennet Sister - TBC 1. Agatha Christie's Seven Dials How to watch: now on Netflix Agatha Christie is a master of suspenseful whodunnits, making her works prime suspects for adaptations. The latest on Netflix is a three-part series based on The Seven Dials Mystery which investigates a mysterious death the morning after a party in a grand stately home. Mia McKenna-Bruce is joined by Helena Bonham Carter and Martin Freeman in this fun and gripping adaptation. 2. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms How to watch: now on Sky George R.R. Martin's epic world of Westeros expands again in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. This time, set 100 years before the events of Game of Thrones, we follow the adventures of Dunk and Egg as the travel the land and encounter various challenges along the way in the Targaryen dynasty. 3. H is for Hawk How to watch: in cinemas, 23rd January Helen Macdonald's 2014 memoir tells the story of grief and a love of falconry and it's been adapted into a gorgeous film starring Clare Foy and Brendon Gleeson - with a delicate script from novelist Emma Donoghue. 4. Hamnet How to watch: in cinemas now Maggie O'Farrell's 2020 novel was a bestseller upon release and the adaptation starring Jessie Buckley is storming the awards season, too. Chloé Zhao directs Paul Mescal as William Shakespeare and Jessie Buckley as his wife, Agnes, in this extraordinary portrayal of grief after the death of their son, Hamnet. 5. His and Hers How to watch: now on Netflix Alice Feeney's twisty thriller, His and Hers, is heading to Netflix with Tessa Thompson and Jon Bernthal in the leads. This complex story follows Anna, a newsreader, who gets tied into a murder case with her ex-detective husband Jack Harper - and there's way more than meets the eye to it. 6. People We Meet on Vacation How to watch: now on Netflix Chances are you'll have already binged through Emily Henry's page-turning romance and now it's been brought to life on Netflix. Poppy and Alex are best friends who stop speaking after a fateful trip to Croatia two years ago. The action goes back and forth between that holiday and the present day. 7. Bridgerton season 4 (An Offer From a Gentleman) How to watch: Netflix, 29th January Benedict (Luke Thompson) and Sophie (Yerin Ha) are at the heart of Bridgerton season 4 as Julia Quinn's iconic series continues to get its big budget adaptation on Netflix. 8. Wuthering Heights How to watch: in cinemas 13th February Emily Brontë's classic is getting yet another adaptation - but this one has already generated a lot of buzz and chatter, rightly or wrongly. Emerald Fennell directs Margot Robbie as Cathy and Jacob Elordi as Heathcliffe in this stylish and current re-telling of the classic love story. Adolescence's Owen Cooper also appears as a young Heathcliff - and if that wasn't enough, Charli XCX is behind the soundtrack. 9. Outlander season 8 (Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone) How to watch: Amazon Prime Video, 6th March Diana Gabaldon's series continues in the ninth book with Jamie and Claire's remarkable love story. It's 1779 and they're reunited with their daughter, Brianna and her family as they try to rebuild on Fraser's Ridge. However, tensions run high across the States and it isn't long before war is on Jamie's doorstep. 10. The Bride! How to watch: in cinemas 6th March Maggie Gyllenhaal has written and directed this dark and imaginative take on Frankenstein, starring Jessie Buckley as the eponymous character and Christian Bale as the creature. This adaptation takes place in 1930s Chicago and follows the creature who asks a doctor to make him a life-long companion — carnage swiftly follows, of course. 11. Scarpetta How to watch: Amazon Prime Video, 11th March Nicole Kidman stars as forensic pathologist Kay Scarpetta, the lead character of Patricia Cornwell's series. It's the first time the character has been brought to screen and the series will see Kay solving crimes while battling her own personal demons. 12. Reminders of Him How to watch: in cinemas 13th March Kenna returns to her hometown after a stint in prison and she's determined to rebuild her life with her young daughter. But she soon realises that the past is hard to forget and no matter how hard she tries, not everyone can be so instantly forgiving. Maika Monroe stars in this adaptation of Colleen Hoover's bestseller. 13. Imperfect Women How to watch: Apple TV+, 18th March Kerry Washington, Elisabeth Moss and more star in this adaptation of Araminta Hall's popular psychological thriller. A devastating crime has a detrimental impact on two friends who've been friends for decades and as the truth spills out, secrets about the friends does too. Did they ever really know each other at all? 14. Project Hail Mary How to watch: in cinemas 20th March Ryland Grace is aboard a spaceship all by himself with no memory of how he got there. All he knows is that he was sent on a last-ditch attempt with some other scientists to save the Earth. But with everyone gone, will he be able to save the planet? This gripping adaptation sees Ryan Gosling take on the lead role in Andy Weir's epic novel. 15. Margo's Got Money Troubles How to watch: Apple TV+, 15th April Margo is the child of an ex-pro wrestler and a Hooters waitress but has always been destined to make it on her own. When life isn't going to plan, she takes desperate measures and joins OnlyFans. When Margo suddenly becomes an overnight success, will she realise that having money and fame isn't all it's cracked out to be? Elle Fanning stars in this adaptation of Rufi Thorpe's novel. 16. Remarkably Bright Creatures How to watch: Netflix, 8th May Shelby Van Pelt's story on love, loss and friendship has won over a legion of fans already — and it will continue to do so when an adaptation of it lands on Netflix this Spring. Tova Sullivan is a cleaner at Sowell Bay Aquarium, consumed by grief since her 18-year-old son vanished over 30 years ago. But, as she goes about her work, Tova becomes enchanted by a giant octopus named Marcellus, and it's via these two unlikely friends that the story wonderfully unfurls. 17. The Odyssey How to watch: in cinemas 17th July Homer's classic text is getting the Christopher Nolan treatment in this highly ambitious and epic retelling. Expect a huge budget and an even bigger cast starring Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway and Zendaya to name a few. Odysseus sets off on a 10-year journey home facing mythical creatures, gods and other grand challenges - all while his wife Penelope and son Telemachus deal with suitors back at home. 18. The Book of Magic How to watch: in cinemas 28th September Alice Hoffman's second book in her Practical Magic series continues the story of the Owens, who have always struggled with love thanks to a dreadful curse. Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock star in the cinematic adaptation. 19. Verity How to watch: in cinemas 2nd October Colleen Hoover's work is being once more adapted for the big screen, this time alongside a star-studded cast of Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson and more. Lowen Ashleigh can't seem to make money doing what she loves but she gets the chance of a lifetime to make a name for herself when she's asked to finish the books of renowned author, Verity Crawford. Lowen moves into the Crawfords' home and soon finds out some dark secrets about the family who have taken her in... 20. Remain How to watch: in cinemas 23rd October Jake Gyllenhaal and Phoebe Dynevor star in an adaptation of Nicolas Sparks and M. Night Shymalan's ambitious novel. New York architect Tate Donovan has just arrived in Cape Cod to work on his best friend's house. He's also hoping for a fresh start after a terrible bout of depression following the death of his sister. But, when Tate meets the beautiful Wren, he starts to challenge everything he thought he knew in his controlled world. 21. Sunrise on the Reaping How to watch: in cinemas 20th November Set 24 years before the events of The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins' prequel recalls the story of the 50th Hunger Games which would eventually end with Haymitch Abernathy becoming the victor. Joseph Zada stars alongside Ralph Fiennes, Glenn Close, Kieran Culkin and more. 22. Dune Messiah (Dune: Part Three) How to watch: in cinemas 18th December Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya and more return for the third Dune film, directed by Dennis Villeneuve. Frank Herbert's iconic series has received blockbuster treatment, making it one of the most popular and expansive sci-fi franchises since Star Wars. Dune Messiah will wrap up Paul Atreides' remarkable journey. 23. Carrie How to watch: Amazon Prime Video, date TBC Stephen King's iconic horror is once again being adapted for an Amazon Prime Video series. Summer H Howell takes on the role of troubled teenager Carrie White who has a difficult relationship with her repressed mental superpowers. When her kindness is abused by a terrible prank, her town will soon learn how strong she can be... 24. Pride and Prejudice How to watch: Netflix, date TBC Jane Austen's seminal romance novel needs no introduction, having already been adapted numerous times. The latest will air on Netflix and sees Emma Corrin as Elizabeth Bennet, Jack Lowden as Mr Darcy, Fiona Shaw as Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Olivia Colman as Mrs Bennet. 25. The Love Hypothesis How to watch: in cinemas TBC Ali Hazelwood tells the story of a third year PhD student, Olive Smith, who doesn't believe in long-lasting love. However, her best friend does, and gets her into a situation where she must prove she's dating. Olive ends up kissing a young professor and she concocts a plan for him to pretend to be her boyfriend to get her friend off her case - but what happens when feeling start to come into play? 26. The Other Bennet Sister How to watch: BBC One, date TBC Pride and Prejudice adaptations are like buses: two come at once. The Other Bennet Sister takes the world of Austen's novel and flips it on its head by exploring the over-looked middle daughter of the Bennets: Mary. Ella Bruccoleri, Ruth Jones and Indira Varma star in this fun BBC miniseries. For all the latest RT Book Club news, interviews, Q&As with the authors, reviews of previous books and more, visit The Radio Times Book Club.
Coronation Street favourite charged with Billy Mayhew's death amid naive decision in early ITVX release
Warning: contains spoilers for the episode of Corrie airing Thursday 8th January on ITV and ITVx.
**Warning: Contains major spoilers for the Thursday 8th January 2026 episode of Coronation Street, available now on ITVX and YouTube.** The fallout from Corriedale continued in today's Coronation Street episode, airing Thursday 8th January 2026. All eyes were on Debbie Webster (played by Sue Devaney), who was being set up by her brother, Carl (Jonathan Howard), during the fateful crash. He was drunk-driving behind the wheel of one of the cars primarily involved in the car crash, and the wily villain quickly dragged Debbie into the driver's seat while he scarpered from the scene. Debbie faced a tough interrogation in the police station in today's episode, as the investigating officer pressed hard to find out the truth of what happened. Though it seemed she had an agenda already, and whichever way she questioned, Debbie flustered as she struggled to recall her real story amid her dementia diagnosis; one thing was clear, though, she wasn't going to throw her brother under the bus. Back at Ronnie's (Vinta Morgan), the new husband and Kevin (Michael Le Vell) awaited news from Debbie's police investigation. When the phone rang, it confirmed the worst: she would be charged with death by dangerous driving. View oEmbed on the source website Back at the flat after Debbie returned, the family came to terms with the fact that her court date had been set, with Debbie's future in the balance. It was just about the worst time for Carl to arrive unannounced and ask to stay with Debbie while he got himself back on his feet after a heart attack. Kevin begged Debbie not take in the rogue, but she couldn't turn away her brother and allowed him to stay. Kevin warned, "You'll go to jail because of him." Will she? Read more: 5 Coronation Street spoilers next week: Carl Webster convinces Debbie she caused Billy Mayhew's death Coronation Street airs weeknights at 8.30pm on ITV1 and ITVX. Visit our dedicated Corrie page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Add Coronation Street to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Emmerdale confirms prostate cancer story for Cain Dingle – months after wife Moira survives brain tumour
Corriedale brought new storylines to light.
Amid the drama of Corriedale, there was a quieter, more sombre, moment for Cain Dingle (played by Jeff Hordley). The Emmerdale favourite was caught up with the drama of the crossover episode when he went on the hunt for evil John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth). Unfortunately, while John was arguing with Robert Sugden (Ryan Hawley), a shotgun was fired, and caught Cain in the midriff. Later in the episode, while Cain was recovering from the non-fatal shot, the doctor explained how they had found some cancer during the scan process. Confirming the extent of the storyline and that Cain will have prostate cancer, producer Laura Shaw told press including RadioTimes.com: "The Dingle family are set to face huge repercussions [in the aftermath of CorrieDale] and Cain is at the centre of a major prostate cancer storyline spanning across 2026. "Adding to their devastation, Moira will be arrested for human trafficking, with her arrest timed to coincide with her husband's diagnosis. Their complex marriage will be tested as they face dark times." Fans will also recall Moira (Natalie J Robb) suffered with her own terrible diagnosis in 2025. She was diagnosed with a meningioma, a non-cancerous brain tumour which affected her memory, personality changes, confusion, seizures and more. Elsewhere in Emmerdale this year, fans can expect some fallout from the unexpected return of Graham Foster (Andrew Scarborough) back from the dead. Plus, with both Bear (Joshua Richards), Ray (Joe Absolom) and John dead, there's going to be plenty of police suspicion on all the residents of Emmerdale... Read more: 5 Emmerdale spoilers next week: Moira Dingle arrested for human trafficking in Celia Daniels death twist Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7pm on ITV1. Stream on ITVX. Add Emmerdale to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Best books released in 2026: including anticipated next novel from best-selling author
Get your tote bag - it's time to go shopping.
Last year was a great 12 months, packed with fantastic books to keep you entertained all year. And luckily for us bookworms, 2026 looks to be no different. It can be a little overwhelming finding something to read in a bookshop, and while it's fun browsing the shelves, it's good to know what's worth your time. Thankfully, RadioTimes.com is on hand with our pick of the hottest fiction releases in 2026 you'll want to add to your TBR immediately. And in good news for you, it will be updated as more fantastic books appear on the release calendar – so keep it bookmarked. Read on for our picks of the best books in 2026. 21 best books of 2026 so far Meet the Newmans - Jennifer Niven Half His Age - Jennette McCurdy The Old Fire - Elisa Shua Dusapin (translated by Aneesa Abbas Higgins) Helen of Nowhere - Makenna Goodman Glyph - Ali Smith Greedy - Callie Kazumi Lost Lambs - Madeline Cash Orange - Curtis Garner Suckerfish - Ashani Lewis Cleopatra - Saara El Arifi Gloria Don't Speak - Lucy Apps Strange Buildings - Uketsu Hooked - Asako Yuzuki (translated by Polly Barton) Six Little Words - Sally Page Minor Black Figures - Brandon Taylor Tangerinn - Emanuela Anechoum (translated by Lucy Rand) The Ending Writes Itself - Evelyn Clarke My Year in Paris with Gertrude Stein: A Fiction - Deborah Levy The Calamity Club - Kathryn Stockett Land - Maggie O'Farrell Agrippa - Robert Harris 1. Meet the Newmans - Jennifer Niven Released: 15/01/26 Niven's latest novel is about America's favourite TV family - but when the façade starts to crack, secrets and explosive truths come to light. This one's for fans of Lessons in Chemistry and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. 2. Half His Age - Jennette McCurdy Released: 20/01/26 From the bestselling author of I'm Glad My Mom Died, McCurdy is back with an equally sad and funny novel about sex, class, desire and power. Waldo is going through a range of emotions, but above all, she's desperate to have Mr Korgy, her creative writing tutor. This novel is about a 17-year-old who will disregard all obstacles to get what she wants - even if it tears apart families. 3. The Old Fire - Elisa Shua Dusapin (translated by Aneesa Abbas Higgins) Released: 29/01/2026 In the wake of her father's death, Agathe leaves New York to return to her home in the French countryside after 15 years away. She hasn't seen her sister, Véra since and now they must empty their home before it's knocked down. The act of emptying the house brings about a wealth of memories - and resentments - to life for both sisters. 4. Helen of Nowhere - Makenna Goodman Released: 29/01/26 In the middle of the countryside, a disgraced professor is being shown around a gorgeous secluded abode. The realtor speaks not only about the home's many qualities, but also about the mystical previous owner, Helen. The man soon learns that his story isn't over as he hears about Helen's, uncovering that perhaps the simple life is how he will find peace. 5. Glyph - Ali Smith Released: 29/01/26 Glyph follows on from Ali Smith's 2024 novel, Gliff, which tells a story hidden in the first. The less you know about it the better as you immerse yourself back into Smith's world. 6. Greedy - Callie Kazumi Released: 05/02/2026 A reclusive billionaire is looking for a private chef - and she finds the perfect candidate with down and out Ed. However, her unusual tastes launch him into a world he can't control and can't get out of. 7. Lost Lambs - Madeline Cash Released: 05/02/2026 Bud and Catherine opened up their marriage and nothing has been quite right since with their daughters also spiralling. A local billionaire's ruthless actions in their town prompts the family to actually grow closer together. 8. Orange - Curtis Garner Released: 19/02/26 In the quaint fishing village of Portscatho in Cornwall, two teenagers find an unexpected connection which neither of them can quite explain. Years later, they reconnect in London and both are in a very different space. Can their bond withstand all that's happened since they first met? If you're a fan of the tenderness of nuanced relationships found in Sally Rooney, you'll want to pick up a copy of Orange. 9. Suckerfish - Ashani Lewis Released: 26/02/2026 Kolia may have moved on from the all-encompassing grip of her mother in her twenties. but she may have no choice but to be drawn back into her orbit in Suckerfish which makes for a complex depiction of motherhood and the connection between a mother and daughter. 10. Cleopatra - Saara El Arifi Released: 26/02/2026 Everyone knows something about Cleopatra but what was it like inside her mind? Was she really a seductress? Was she really bloodthirsty? Was she involved in witchcraft? Saara El Arifi ponders all these questions within her gripping historical fiction. 11. Gloria Don't Speak - Lucy Apps Released: 26/02/2026 Gloria has a learning disability which limits her world - she tends to go round the local parks, keep out of trouble and see her friend Jack. He needs her company, but he's unpredictable. An act of violence leaves Gloria on her own. How will she navigate her world when he gets out of prison? 12. Strange Buildings - Uketsu Released: 26/02/26 Uketsu returns with their remarkably unique murder mystery series. Each building within this book tells a horrifying story - and each one is part of a puzzle. Look closely for the connections and see if you can work out what links it all... 13. Hooked - Asako Yuzuki (translated by Polly Barton) Released: 12/03/26 Eriko's life might look perfect on the outside, but she's wracked by loneliness. She becomes obsessed with a blog written by Shoko, a housewife, who lives a life very different to how a typical manicured Japanese housewife's life is. Eriko, meanwhile, can't shake her obsession with Shoko and befriends her before acting very suspicious... From the author of Butter comes an exciting new thriller that you won't be able to put down. 14. Six Little Words - Sally Page Released: 12/03/26 Kate wanted to be a painter but she gave up on her dream years ago. Six words pinned to the noticeboard of her local cafe could change her fortunes forever... Meanwhile, Brady, a retired English teacher is also struggling with writer's block. The words ("To be or not to be...") prompt them on a breadcrumb trail which helps them to rediscover their creative spark. 15. Minor Black Figures - Brandon Taylor Released: 19/03/26 Wyeth is new to New York City and struggles to fit in the Manhattan art scene. He shares a studio with his friends and starts working for a gallery - but really struggles with his own portrait painting. That changes when he meets Keating, a former priest struggling with his faith. As the men grow closer of a hot summer, they are forced to confront what they are willing to risk for love and art. 16. Tangerinn - Emanuela Anechoum (translated by Lucy Rand) Released: 26/03/26 Mina has entered her thirties and lives in London, with little spontaneity. Her world is thrown upside down when she gets a call from her mother saying her father had died. She returns home and ends up staying in her small seaside town where the bar her dad used to ran welcomed in immigrants and those who didn't feel welcome in this new place. Mina finds her family and memories in this place as she learns to come to terms with her new world. 17. The Ending Writes Itself - Evelyn Clarke Released: 07/04/26 World-famous author Arthur Fletch is dead and his final novel remains unfinished - but the ending won't write itself. Six struggling authors are invited to his private Scottish island with an opportunity of a lifetime - the chance to finish the book and win a book deal and cash prize. How far would they go to get this life-changing prize? 18. My Year in Paris with Gertrude Stein: A Fiction - Deborah Levy Released: 16/04/2026 Who is Gertrude Stein? And why does she matter? The narrator of Levy's novel has travelled to Paris to find out. What she uncovers is how to cope with life in the whirlwind of Paris, and how Stein's life had similar challenges in the 20th century as she does in the 21st. 19. The Calamity Club - Kathryn Stockett Released: 21/05/26 It's been over 17 years since Stockett's bestselling book, The Help, took over the charts and now she's back with The Calamity Club. Eleven-year-old Meg Lefleur learned the hard way not to trust anyone ever since her mother didn't come home last Christmas Eve. She's now one of the "unadoptable" girls at the children's home but fights every day to keep her mind sharp. Meg is drawn to two females who are also down on their luck and their shared experience brings about an unexpected kinship. However, in a town filled with hypocrisy, the smallest act of defiance could have disastrous consequences... 20. Land - Maggie O'Farrell Released: 02/06/26 Tomás and his son, Liam, are tasked by the Ordnance Survey to map the whole of Ireland. It's 1865 and the task isn't as easy as one might think in a land ravaged and emptied by the Great Hunger. But Tomás is determined that his maps will reflect what happened - no matter what. 21. Agrippa - Robert Harris Released: 27/08/26 Julius Caesar has died and his nephew, Octavius, has been made his heir. When the time comes, he chooses to conquer the Roman Empire with his best friend Agrippa. Together they rule the world for 20 years. Now 50, Agrippa has retired to Naples and starts to write his memoirs - but stirring up the past can be very dangerous... For all the latest RT Book Club news, interviews, Q&As with the authors, reviews of previous books and more, visit The Radio Times Book Club. Looking for more reading recommendations? Join the Radio Times Book Club here - we offer 3-month or 6-month memberships as well as monthly or quarterly subscriptions where you'll receive a new hardback chosen by the RT team delivered directly to your door!
39 best books of 2025: From Stephen King epic to the Booker Prize winner
Like we needed another excuse to go book shopping.
It's been a fantastic year for book lovers with some extraordinary releases. From Stephen King's latest in the Holly Gibney series to the winner of the Man Booker prize, there's been a wealth of literary feasts to devour. It can be a little daunting seeing so many releases and not quite knowing which books are worth a trip to the shop (not that we really need an excuse). We at RadioTimes.com have picked out the books you need to buy from 2025 – in no particular order. 39 best book releases of 2025 Here is our list of the best book releases of 2025: Normal Women - Ainslie Hogarth Blessings - Chukwuebuka Ibeh So Thrilled for You - Holly Bourne Water Moon - Samantha Sotto Yambao Confessions - Catherine Airey Made Up, but Still True - Donald Sutherland We All Live Here - Jojo Moyes The Voices - Natalie Chandler Carrion Crow - Heather Parry Show Don't Tell - Curtis Sittenfeld Dream Count - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Hunchback - Saou Ichikawa (translated by Polly Barton) Universality - Natasha Brown A Thousand Blues - Cheon Seon-ran (translated by Chi-Young Kim) Deep Cuts - Holly Brickley I Want to Go Home but I'm Already There - Róisín Lanigan Greater Sins - Gabrielle Griffiths The Vipers - Katy Hays Fair Play - Louise Hegarty Aftertaste - Daria Lavelle Onyx Storm - Rebecca Yarros The Impossible Fortune - Richard Osman The Long Shoe - Bob Mortimer Never Flinch - Stephen King Not Quite Dead Yet - Holly Jackson Strange Pictures - Uketsu, translated by Jim Rion The Man Who Died Seven Times - Yasuhiko Nishizawa, translated by Jesse Kirkwood The Compound - Aisling Rawle The Killing Stones - Ann Cleeves Buckeye - Patrick Ryan Atmosphere - Taylor Jenkins Reid Men in Love - Irvine Welsh The Eleventh Hour - Salman Rushdie Flashlight - Susan Choi What We Can Know - Ian McEwan Flesh - David Szalay Perfection - Vincenzo Latronico, translated by Sophie Hughes Sunrise on the Reaping - Suzanne Collins The End of the World as We Know It - Brian Keene & Christopher Golden Here is all you need to know about these books... 1. Normal Women - Ainslie Hogarth Dani, a new mother, has got a fair bit going on in her life. While everything seems to be going well, with her perfectly coiffed hair, she's filled with anxiety that her husband will die, leaving her and her baby with nothing. Her life changes when she goes to a yoga centre, The Temple, which helps women reach their potential through any means necessary. But when the leader goes missing, Dani turns into detective to track her down... Normal Women - Ainslie Hogarth 2. Blessings - Chukwuebuka Ibeh Obiefuna's father witnesses an intimate moment between his teenage son and the family apprentice, which prompts the strict dad to banish Obiefuna to a boarding school that harbours terrible violence and rules. While alienated from his family, Obiefuna starts a journey of self discovery, bringing together a novel about love and loneliness in this outstanding debut novel. Blessings - Chukwuebuka Ibeh 3. So Thrilled for You - Holly Bourne Nicki, Lauren, Charlotte and Steffi have been friends for over a decade, but life has its way of pulling them apart - that is, until a baby shower provides the perfect excuse to bring the gang back together. Under the intense heat of a summer day, tensions rise and a fire at the house leaves everyone a suspect - and their friendship damaged forever. So Thrilled for You - Holly Bourne 4. Water Moon - Samantha Sotto Yambao A mysterious disappearance in a pawnshop in Tokyo takes its young owner on a fantastical adventure with a charming physicist. Water Moon is a heartwarming love story for those who love the works of Studio Ghibli. <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Water-Moon-captivating-real-world-adventure/dp/0857505335/ref=asc_df_0857505335?mcid=8ec466f34569339d967b86c789f8d4be&th=1&psc=1&tag=radtim0b-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=697301145313&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16057931521126359066&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9196631&hvtargid=pla-2302474292110&gad_source=4&ascsubtag=radiotimes-2188615" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Water Moon - Samantha Sotto Yambao 5. Confessions - Catherine Airey Confessions is set in the aftermath of 9/11 as teenager Cora is searching for her father who worked in the North Tower. The novel flits between 1970s Donegal and 2001 as one secret takes years to unravel. This one's for fans of Donna Tartt's The Goldfinch and is an extraordinary debut novel by Airey, who's bound to be a household name very soon. Confessions - Catherine Airey 6. Made Up, but Still True - Donald Sutherland The candid and long-awaited personal story of movie legend Donald Sutherland, who will speak open and honestly about his successful career, life and devastating loss. Made Up, but Still True - Donald Sutherland 7. We All Live Here - Jojo Moyes The Kennedy household is full of secrets, with everyone harbouring something - even the dog has a crime. When something happens in the household, their odd familial relationships will change - for better or for worse. <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/All-Live-Here-Jojo-Moyes/dp/0241415519/ref=asc_df_0241415519?mcid=72e188b087a330a88735d1fe0462129b&th=1&psc=1&tag=radtim0b-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=697296731017&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=1489124246460724763&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9196631&hvtargid=pla-2311831735651&gad_source=4&ascsubtag=radiotimes-2188615" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">We All Live Here - Jojo Moyes 8. The Voices - Natalie Chandler Tamsin Shaw has been unresponsive in hospital for 3 years, and when her husband Jamie takes the difficult decision to end treatment, she's listening to everything - and she also hears everything surrounding her accident. Can she wake up in time to get justice for what happened to her? The Voices - Natalie Chandler 9. Carrion Crow - Heather Parry Carrion Crow has been described as a "spine-tingling tale" that explores rampant Victorian colonialism, bodily freedoms and a complex relationship between a mother and a daughter. Carrion Crow - Heather Parry 10. Show Don't Tell - Curtis Sittenfeld This collection of 12 short stories will explore the likes of marriage, fame and female friendship, finally putting pen to paper about thoughts we cannot speak. <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Show-Dont-Tell-bestselling-Romantic/dp/1529925894/ref=asc_df_1529925894?mcid=bfe816207dbd320195ff82360210dca3&th=1&psc=1&tag=radtim0b-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=697296731017&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=7821779915644884133&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9196631&hvtargid=pla-2334505816699&gad_source=4&ascsubtag=radiotimes-2188615" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Show Don't Tell - Curtis Sittenfeld 11. Dream Count - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Acclaimed author Adichie is back with a novel that's been 10 years in the making. Dream Count is the story of four women and their loves, desires and longings. Set in the pandemic, Chiamaka, a Nigerian travel writer, reflects on her past decisions while alone in America. Zikora, her best friend, has to turn to someone she thought she didn't need after being left heartbroken. Omelogor, Chiamaka's cousin, questions how well she knows herself. Kadiatou, Chiamaka's housekeeper, is under threat. Adichie's writing is always exciting and relevant, with her latest novel about to cement her place as a literary great. <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dream-Count-best-selling-award-winning-Americanah/dp/0008685738/ref=asc_df_0008685738?mcid=4bc83916c3b63c09b841499fcd48b86a&th=1&psc=1&tag=radtim0b-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=714627642393&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14556837229610212634&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9196631&hvtargid=pla-2370840695895&gad_source=4&ascsubtag=radiotimes-2188615" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">Dream Count - Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie 12. Hunchback - Saou Ichikawa (translated by Polly Barton) Shaka Isawa was born with a congenital muscle disorder, and as a result has to use an electric wheelchair and ventilator. In the limits of her care home, she lives her life online, studying, tweeting and posting erotica on a blog. When a new male carer reveals he's read it all, she makes an indecent proposal... Hunchback's author was the first disabled author to win Japan's most prestigious literary award (Akutagawa Prize). Hunchback - Saou Ichikawa 13. Universality - Natasha Brown Those who read Brown's debut, Assembly, will be ready to head to the bookstore on day of release for this one. Universality focuses on a journalist trying to uncover the truth around a brutal bludgeoning of a man with a gold bar in Yorkshire. While she solves the mystery, the journalist's exposé raises more questions than it answers. Like Assembly, Brown's unflinching use of language will keep you guessing, while cementing her as the most exciting young authors around at the moment. The hype is real. Universality - Natasha Brown 14. A Thousand Blues - Cheon Seon-ran (translated by Chi-Young Kim) It's 2035 and two sisters grow up working in a local cafe, but one of them loses their job to an automaton, promoting their family life to become quite uncomfortable. The sisters love their friendship with famous racehorse, Today, but when it's time for the horse to retire, they take it among themselves to rescue the horse before it's put down - and instead of making it go as fast as they can, they have to convince it to go slow. If you love the work of Kazuo Ishiguro, A Thousand Blues will sing to you. <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Thousand-Blues-heart-warming-Korean-bestseller/dp/1529938023/ref=asc_df_1529938023?mcid=22d2d85dc8b33dbebd589a3b3ddde629&th=1&psc=1&tag=radtim0b-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=714627642393&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=6738160640418958002&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9196631&hvtargid=pla-2371702962881&gad_source=4&ascsubtag=radiotimes-2188615" target="_blank" rel="sponsored">A Thousand Blues - Cheon Seon-ran 15. Deep Cuts - Holly Brickley If you're a lover of One Day and High Fidelity, you'll want to pick up Deep Cuts when you can. It's 2000 and Joe and Percy are in college. When Percy hears one of Joe's songs, she realises he's a star, she can help shape his music, and he will leave her for his dreams. With heartbreak on the horizon, will Percy be able to put her feelings aside to help Joe on his path? Deep Cuts - Holly Brickley 16. I Want to Go Home but I'm Already There - Róisín Lanigan As a haunted house story which is set during the rental crisis, the novel follows Áine and Elliot who find a dream rental that's too good to be true - and it is. When strange things start to happen, Áine finds herself not settled and uncomfortable in every facet of life. Funny, relatable and just so real, I Want to Go Home but I'm Already There will explore the difficult circumstances many young people face today as they enter adulthood. I Want to Go Home But I'm Already There - Róisín Lanigan 17. Greater Sins - Gabrielle Griffiths In 1915 Aberdeenshire, a Scottish community is disturbed by the discover of a body in a peat bog that's been perfectly preserved. Lizzie, the wife of a wealthy landowner, and Johnny, a singer and farm hand, pull the body out of the ground as it ends up revealing secrets they themselves are hiding. Greater Sins has an extraordinary sense of place and time, written by an exciting new voice from Scotland. Greater Sins - Gabrielle Griffiths 18. The Vipers - Katy Hays Hays enjoyed considerably success with her debut novel, The Cloisters, and is set to release her next thriller, The Vipers. This time, we're taken to luxurious Capri as a past murder haunts a rich family. If you love twisty thrillers and The White Lotus, pick up The Vipers in March. The Vipers - Katy Hays 19. Fair Play - Louise Hegarty Abigail and her brother, Benjamin, have always been close, and to celebrate his birthday, Abigail decides to hire an old house and host a murder mystery party with their friends. While the night gets out of hand, the morning is a sobering affair as Benjamin is found dead, launching a real murder mystery. With everyone a suspect, centring on a locked room and plenty of twists, Fair Play is a prime example of the genre. Fair Play - Louise Hegarty 20. Aftertaste - Daria Lavelle Aftertaste focuses on Kostya, a dead-end dishwasher who finds the ability to summon spirits through the food he cooks. With his special gift, he decides to open a restaurant that serves a side of closure with every meal. However, with ghosts of his own, a fragile afterlife preparing to crash and a mysterious lover on the menu, Aftertaste is simply one of those books everyone's going to be talking about. Aftertaste - Daria Lavelle 21. Onyx Storm - Rebecca Yarros This is the third part in Yarros's romantasy series, following on from Fourth Wing and Iron Flame. Our hero, Violet, has to return beyond the walls of Basgiath to find allies to help her in the revolution. This series has taken BookTok by storm for a reason - it's a gripping read and one you'll want to be involved in the discussion about. Onyx Storm - Rebecca Yarros 22. The Impossible Fortune - Richard Osman This is the fifth instalment in Osman's charismatic and thrilling Thursday Murder Club series. This time around, a wedding guest in danger seeks help from Elizabeth which in turn sets in motion a complex investigation involving cryptic codes and ruthless villains. This is one of the slickest in the series yet and pushes our beloved bunch beyond the safety of Cooper's Chase. The Impossible Fortune - Richard Osman 23. The Long Shoe - Bob Mortimer Iconic British comedian Bob Mortimer returns for a third outing of his irreverent and fun cosy crime books. Boardroom salesman Matt is at a crossroads in life, but a new job comes along and his life changes as he realises he's perhaps part of something more sinister.. If you love Mortimer's humour, these books are a must-read. The Long Shoe - Bob Mortimer 24. Never Flinch - Stephen King The master of the thriller returns with his beloved character Holly Gibney for a complete page-turner. Two terrible crimes involving a deranged serial killer and a misogynistic stalker start to interweave... a must-read if you love either King, thrillers - or both. Never Flinch - Stephen King 25. Not Quite Dead Yet - Holly Jackson The author of A Good Girl's Guide to Murder returns with her first ever adult novel. After a terrible attack, Jet is left with just one week left to live before she will eventually succumb to her injuries. She sets upon an ambitious plan to solve her own murder - before it's technically happened. Will she succeed? You'll race through this thrilling novel to find out. Not Quite Dead Yet - Holly Jackson 26. Strange Pictures - Uketsu, translated by Jim Rion This Japanese mystery horror is based around a series of creepy drawings and the reader has to play detective. A young woman makes strange images before her death while a child's horrible picture of his house is drawn and a sketch by a murder victim in his final moments prompts a murder investigation like no other. Strange Pictures - Uketsu 27. The Man Who Died Seven Times - Yasuhiko Nishizawa, translated by Jesse Kirkwood Part sci-fi, part murder mystery, Nishizawa's inventive novel sees a man relive the day of his grandfather's death on a time loop while he tries to uncover what really happened on that fateful day. With only a limited amount of times he can rerun the day, can our hero Hisataro prevent his grandfather's death? The Man Who Died Seven Times - Yasuhiko Nishizawa, translated by Jesse Kirkwood 28. The Compound - Aisling Rawle If you're a fan of Love Island and dating shows in general, The Compound flips everything you might think they are on its head. Ten women and 10 men land in a desert and while they're all beautiful, most of them are terrible humans too. Those who couple up and survive to the end will win everything they could ever desire. If they lose? Well, don't think too hard about that. Rawle's dystopian world is haunting and chilling, showcasing the lengths reality TV could get to. The Compound - Aisling Rawle 29. The Killing Stones - Ann Cleeves Jimmy Perez returns in another chilling mystery from the creator of Vera. A violent storm lands on Orkney and leaves a dead body in its wake which causes ripples around the community. Perez has to delve into a personal case to uncover his community's darkness and find out who killed his childhood friend. The Killing Stones - Ann Cleeves 30. Buckeye - Patrick Ryan In a small town in Ohio, Cal and Margaret come together in a moment of passion which is sparked in the aftermath of the Allied victory in Europe. That moment of intimacy will ripple through to the next generation as Ryan explores the meaning of community, love, loss and the need for connection above all. Buckeye - Patrick Ryan 31. Atmosphere - Taylor Jenkins Reid In the summer of 1980, astrophysicist Joan Goodwin gets the call of a lifetime when she's put on the astronaut training programme at Houston's Johnson Space Centre among excellent candidates from across the country. Joan finds a connection with Vanessa that has a stronger pull than gravity as the pair learn what it means to accept their identities in a world that doesn't always accept them. You'll be in tears by the end of this epic novel. Atmosphere - Taylor Jenkins Reid 32. Men in Love - Irvine Welsh Welsh's iconic Trainspotting crew return in this highly-anticipated sequel to his classic novel. As the late 80s rave culture sweeps over Edinburgh, the boys go looking for love - but will they find it? Men in Love - Irvine Welsh 33. The Eleventh Hour - Salman Rushdie Rushdie flits between important locations in his life in this extraordinary novel, asking fundamental questions we will all encounter - how do you cope when you enter the eleventh hour of your life? How do you say goodbye? The Eleventh Hour - Salman Rushdie 34. Flashlight - Susan Choi Shortlisted for The Booker Prize 2025, Choi's remarkable tale tells the story of one family swept up in the tides of the 20th century, going from post-war Japan to suburban America and the North Korean regime. When Louisa's father disappears, a traumatic mystery commences as she tries to work out what happened to him. Flashlight - Susan Choi 35. What We Can Know - Ian McEwan A lost poem from 2014 prompts an academic in 2119 to explore what its message could have been when he finds a cryptic clue pointing towards the missing words. What could the poem possibly say? And in a future world, is all really lost? What We Can Know - Ian McEwan 36. Flesh - David Szalay The winner of The Booker Prize in 2025 ranges from post-communist Hungary to London. Teenager István lives with his mother in a quiet apartment in Hungary and becomes isolated in his community with his only companion a married woman which causes his life to spiral out of control. Later on, he finds himself in London, carried on the tides of money and power - but is it all it's worth? Flesh - David Szalay 37. Perfection - Vincenzo Latronico, translated by Sophie Hughes A young expat couple are living the dream in Berlin - at least that's what their social media says. When work becomes tiresome, friends move away and get on with their lives, Anna and Tom desperately try to find true authenticity in a world consumed by what everyone thinks of you. A perfect novel for 2025 and scathing in its commentary. Perfection - Vincenzo Latronico, translated by Sophie Hughes 38. Sunrise on the Reaping - Suzanne Collins The Hunger Games world expands further in this prequel novel which sees Haymitch Abernathy at the centre of the action. This gripping tale packed to the brim with action and drama tells the tale of the 50th deadly contest. Sunrise on the Reaping - Suzanne Collins 39. The End of the World as We Know It - Brian Keene & Christopher Golden The End of the World as We Know It continues to expand the enormous world of Stephen King's The Stand. Award-winning authors Keene and Golden bring together some of the best and most exciting authors who have terrifying and painfully human tales to expand on King's remarkable world-building in his epic novel. A must for any fan of King's original. The End of the World as We Know It - Brian Keene & Christopher Golden Visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Julia Donaldson reveals the one change to The Scarecrow's Wedding she was reluctant to make – but had to
Julia Donaldson's stories are beloved across the world, and they are equally loved on the screen as they are on the page, thanks to the magical annual adaptations by Magic Light Pictures and the BBC. Usually, they are staunchly accurate to the original text, but sometimes small things need to be tweaked to make it work on TV, as is the way with all book-to-screen adaptations. For The Scarecrow's Wedding, there was quite a sizeable change made to one of the main plot points in the story of Betty O'Barley and Harry O'Hay's love story. In the book, they are separated as Harry tries to find Betty the exact flowers she wants for her perfect wedding day, and while he's away, the rogue scarecrow, Reginald Rake, drops by the field to try and woo Betty. He goes to extreme lengths to impress her, and one such attempt sees him smoke a cigar, get a cough and then start a fire, which is then put out by a returning Harry. According to Ofcom rules, "the use of illegal drugs, the abuse of drugs, smoking, solvent abuse and the misuse of alcohol must not be featured in programmes made primarily for children unless there is strong editorial justification". As a result, the story was tweaked so the fire is started by Reginald toasting marshmallows instead, ultimately resulting in the same outcome. Speaking of the change, Donaldson said: "In the book, the fire is started by Reginald Rake through smoking. I thought that was really good because it shows him in a really bad light. He is a baddie and he is smoking and in the original book Betty says ‘smoking is bad for you’ and he gets a terrible cough and starts a fire so it shows how bad smoking is. "But apparently in the world of children’s films you are not allowed to show anyone smoking. I personally think it would be better for children to come across smoking in a film or a book and then their parents can talk about it and say it is not a great thing, rather than see someone in a doorway." When asked by Magic Light Pictures if she would be interested in changing the story so they could adapt it, Donaldson initially said no. "I said ‘absolutely not' and then went home and went straight to the computer because by that stage we had the pictures and I knew Betty had a pink dress and Reginald had the white suit, so I thought he could start the fire by cooking something and then I thought of pink and white marshmallows," she explained. "I wrote it and I think it works really well that way. I am sorry in a way to lose the smoking but I think marshmallows do work well.” The Scarecrows' Wedding will air this Christmas on the BBC. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what’s on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
The Scarecrow's Wedding voice cast: Real actors behind cute Julia Donaldson animation
The star-studded cast will delight this Christmas.
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's The Scarecrow's Wedding has been adapted for the BBC by Magic Light Productions, marking over a decade of fantastic storytelling. This Christmas, viewers can enjoy the gorgeous love story between Betty O'Barley and Harry O'Hay, two scarecrows who fall in love on a farmer's field and plan to have the best wedding ever. But the arrival of smooth-talking Reginald Rake throws a spanner in the works... As ever, this adaptation is jam-packed with talent from the TV and film industry. Read on to find out who's in the voice cast of The Scarecrow's Wedding. The Scarecrow's Wedding voice cast: Sophie Okonedo is the Narrator Jessie Buckley is Betty O'Barley Domhnall Gleeson is Harry O'Hay Rob Brydon is Reginald Rake Sophie Okonedo is the Narrator Where have I seen Sophie Okonedo before? Most recently, you'll have seen Okonedo in popular sci-fi hit, The Wheel of Time and Apple TV+ series Slow Horses. She's also appeared in Doctor Who, Inside No. 9, The Hollow Crown and many more popular series. Jessie Buckley is Betty O'Barley Who is Betty O'Barley? Betty is a scarecrow who lives on the farmer's field and her main mission in life is to get rid of pesky crows who try to eat the crops. Her job is made a little easier when a new scarecrow comes on the field, and she ends up falling in love with him... Where have I seen Jessie Buckley before? Buckley rose to fame after coming second on BBC talent series I'd Do Anything. She would go on to enjoy a successful career in TV, film and theatre, most notably gaining an Oscar nomination for her supporting role in The Lost Daughter. She also has a starring role in Hamnet and has appeared in I'm Thinking of Ending Things, Chernobyl and Wild Rose. Domhnall Gleeson is Harry O'Hay Who is Harry O'Hay? Harry joins Betty in the farmer's field and immediately falls in love with her, going out of his way to make her happy by giving her the best wedding day ever. Where have I seen Domhnall Gleeson before? Gleeson is best known for his portrayal of Bill Weasley in the Harry Potter film franchise. He also starred in About Time, Ex Machina and The Revenant. Most recently, he was the lead in The US Office spin-off, The Paper. Rob Brydon is Reginald Rake Who is Reginald Rake? When Harry goes on a mission for Betty, Reginald is another scarecrow who is put into the field to help Betty. Reginald's intentions aren't as pure as Harry's, however, and he brings about terrible trouble for the farm. Where have I seen Rob Brydon before? Aside from being in all Magic Light adaptions of Donaldson's work, Brydon is perhaps best known for playing Uncle Bryn in Gavin & Stacey, which concluded last Christmas. He also starred in The Trip opposite Steve Coogan, among many other projects. The Scarecrows' Wedding will air this Christmas on the BBC. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what’s on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Coronation Street fan-favourite left for dead in horrific Christmas Day attack cliffhanger
Warning: Contains spoilers for Corrie's Christmas Day episode, airing currently on ITVX.
Christmas Day went off with a bang in the Rovers Return on Coronation Street with one character left for dead by the end of a tense day. Tensions were running high to start with as Maggie Driscoll (played by Pauline McLynn) pushed Eva Price (Catherine Tyldesley) to the edge – and that was before the bird-in-a-bird-in-a-bird was served. It was clear she was the cat who had the cream after uncovering Eva's emotional letter to her aborted baby and she'd wrapped it up, ready to give it to someone under the pretence of secret Santa. After dinner, which was delicious for all accounts, Maggie passed the fateful message to her son, Ben, who opened it and seemed concerned when he read it. Eva begged him to read no more but unfortunately it was too late - the damage was done and Eva's secret abortion was revealed to the whole party. While all that was going on, some more drama was simmering under the surface between Daniel Osbourne (Rob Mallard) and Will Driscoll (Lucas Hodgson-Wale). Daniel is currently seeing athletics coach Megan Walsh (Beth Nixon) and though it's early days, he seems smitten - much to the annoyance of teen Will, who is being groomed by the evil teacher. While Daniel and Megan showed off their picture-perfect blossoming relationship, Will was sitting seething and taking any jabs he could at his love rival. When it was home time after the explosive arguments of the day, Daniel whispered to Will that he knew he had a crush on Megan, but to leave romance to the adults. It may have been one jibe too far as Daniel was spotted at the end of the episode face down in the ginnel, having been attacked. With Will undoubtedly the prime suspect, will Daniel pull through? And is the young Driscoll going to be in trouble? Read more: Vile Coronation Street abuser Theo Silverton makes sickening move against Todd Grimshaw in ITVX release Coronation Street Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide with wedding drama for Debbie Webster Visit our dedicated Coronation Street page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Add Coronation Street to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Coronation Street's Becky unveils dangerous plan with Carla in ITVX release
Warning: contains spoilers for Coronation Street's Christmas Eve episode, airing now on ITVX.
There’s always a dramatic Christmas in Soap Land and that’s certainly true on Coronation Street this year. Becky Swain (played by Amy Cudden) has managed to get her evil grip into Lisa (Vicky Myers) and it’s brought about a tumultuous time for the latter in the wake of her split from Carla (Alison King). After weeks and months of trying to get back into her good books, Becky finally broke through Lisa’s walls on Christmas Eve during a moment of fragility and the pair shared a kiss, before sleeping together. After the act, Lisa seemed to be torn up about it all and once she had a moment to herself, she tried to get in touch with Carla once more and sent her a heartfelt voice note saying that she loved her and only her. The message finally got through after previously being blocked but Lisa’s face lit up once she saw Carla typing back. However, the audience were finally let into a little secret – it wasn’t Carla typing at all but Becky who had Carla locked up in a dark and dingy cupboard! Forget Spain, Carla certainly wasn’t on any sort of holiday... We all know Becky is a dangerous woman and capable of the worst atrocities. Is this Carla’s last Christmas? Read more: Vile Coronation Street abuser Theo Silverton makes sickening move against Todd Grimshaw in ITVX release Coronation Street Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide with wedding drama for Debbie Webster Visit our dedicated Coronation Street page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers. Add Coronation Street to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Emmerdale hit by schedule shake-up tonight amid major sporting tournament
There's drama in the Dales and sure to be drama on the pitch, too.
There's a small shake-up to ITV's schedule tonight (Tuesday 23rd December) due to the continuation of the Carabao Cup competition on the channel. Emmerdale is the main show affected by the cup, and will now air at 7pm instead of the usual 7:30pm. Instead of Emmerdale's usual slot, football fans can see Arsenal take on Crystal Palace in the quarter finals of the Carabao Cup. Coverage will take place from 7:30pm, ending at 10:25pm. The winner will progress to the semi-final where they'll face Chelsea. Over at the Dales, the drama is hotting up ahead of what's sure to be an explosive Christmas. Robert (Ryan Hawley) and Aaron (Danny Miller) were hoping for a peaceful Christmas after a dramatic year for the pair, but an intimidation campaign ruins their plans considerably. While they thought Robert's prison lover Ross was the problem, it turns out he isn't behind some of the strange goings-on - but who is? Read more: Coronation Street and Emmerdale crossover special releases explosive first-look trailer and confirms more key cast Coronation Street boss gives exciting update on Corriedale crossover Coronation Street and Emmerdale crossover event gets title confirmed as production begins on "mind-blowing" stunt episode Add Emmerdale to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Soaps coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
How to watch Julia Donaldson's The Scarecrows' Wedding and release date
Another of Julia Donaldson's beloved tales is coming to the BBC this Christmas.
Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's adorable tale, The Scarecrows' Wedding, will be brought to life by Magic Light Pictures for the BBC this Christmas. For over a decade, her beloved stories, ranging from The Gruffalo to Zog and beyond, have been adapted with a star-studded cast for a Christmas Day treat. This year is no different, as Domhnall Gleeson and Jessie Buckley lend their voices to Harry O'Hay and Betty O'Barley, respectively. They're joined by Rob Brydon as the villainous Reginald Rake and Sophie Okonedo as the narrator. The lovely tale recounts the story of two scarecrows who fall in love on a farmer's field and plan to have the best wedding ever, but it's not without peril as Reginald tries to come between the pair with potentially disastrous consequences... Read on for your guide on how to watch The Scarecrows' Wedding, and when it will be on TV this Christmas. How to watch The Scarecrows' Wedding The Scarecrows' Wedding will air on BBC One at 3:10pm on Christmas Day. And after it's aired on the BBC, you'll be able to catch it on BBC iPlayer whenever you desire. You can also find the other Magic Light adaptations on BBC iPlayer right now, so there's plenty to keep little ones entertained over the festive period. Check out the trailer for The Scarecrows' Wedding below: View oEmbed on the source website Read our guide to the best Christmas TV for 2025 The Scarecrows' Wedding will air this Christmas on the BBC. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what’s on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
The Witcher's Joey Batey reveals how his new novel embraces his Northern identity and being "forgotten" by those in power
Joey Batey's ambitious new novel shows life in the North - and the creativity that stems from there.
If anyone sings the ditty "Toss a coin to your Witcher", you'd immediately hear the voice and see the face of Joey Batey. The 36-year-old was propelled to fame after his appearance in the hit Netflix series where he performed the catchy tune. But acting is purely one string to Batey's impressive bow; he's one half of indie folk band The Amazing Devil and he's also an author, with his remarkable debut novel the topic of conversation with RadioTimes.com when we caught up. It's Not A Cult is an ambitious folk horror novel, centred around a rebellious band in the North East of England. Callum, Melusine and Al have no band name, but they take their sound across pubs in the locality which tell stories of the 'Solkats', fictional gods of small things. While no one really knows what they're singing about, the band is happiest when they're playing music together - until an act of violence at a pub catches the eye of an influencer and the band suddenly go from having a cult following to having that cult following them. Callum insists the Solkats just want to have an effect on the world, but as their music grows far and wide, and their gigs become more tumultuous, they soon discover that the fictional mischief they've been singing about might just be real after all - and in demand of a sacrifice. It's ambitious and expensive, potentially owing to the fact it had been sitting with Batey for a long time. "When I was about 19, I had met these characters," Batey explained. "I knew the outline of what I wanted to write, but for some reason I was hesitant to put it to paper. I ended up writing a number of other novels throughout my 20s and 30s, just to cut my teeth. I got to a couple of years ago and thought, 'This story's been banging on the door for so long that I think now's the time'. In those years, with the introduction of social media, the story suddenly felt like it was relevant. "I felt like I got all the ingredients for it but I just hadn't put the oven on. When I started cooking on this book, it was a really quick process." Batey laughs when asked if he was glad he waited, adding: "If I'd written it at the age of 19/20, I think it would have been almost unbelievable, whereas the book now incorporates huge themes that are now very palpable and could happen - but would have been slightly alien to an audience of 15/20 years ago." The novel is set in the North East of England, particularly Northumberland, where the scenery is beautiful but wild and mischievous - the perfect setting for the Solkats. Batey explained: "I wanted to return to the North East because it become quite representative of this mythology. Playful but malevolent, quite ethereal in some ways. In this story, [the Solkats] have a sense of joy and threat at the same time - and that's how I feel about my personal relationship with the North East." There's a wealth of books being adapted into TV shows at the moment, and something so inventive as It's Not a Cult would be hard to ignore. But Batey's very humble about his chances - though has some pre-requisites if he were to see it translated for the small screen. "I've no sort of aspiration of grandeur when it comes to the book, but it obviously has a framework that I built into it from day one; there are only maybe three or four scenes in the entire book that don't take place down a camera lens. It might read like I was gunning for it to get made into a film, but that certainly wasn't my intention!" Batey explains. He adds: "If it did get made, I would be first of all overjoyed, but I would hope to have as much creative control as I could, and to ensure that the North East was represented properly by people who were from the North East, who understood what it's like to grow up there, to live there, to be slightly forgotten by the rest of the country and certainly by previous governments. "There's a wealth of togetherness in the North East and in the North in general that comes from being forgotten by people in power. So I would want as many people from the North as possible involved in the project." For all the latest RT Book Club news, interviews, Q&As with the authors, reviews of previous books and more, visit The Radio Times Book Club sponsored by Dr. Oetker Ristorante. Looking for more reading recommendations? Join the Radio Times Book Club here - we offer 3-month or 6-month memberships as well as monthly or quarterly subscriptions where you'll receive a new hardback chosen by the RT team delivered directly to your door!
Ruth Jones books in order: Guide to Gavin & Stacey creator's fiction and non-fiction
Immerse yourself in Ruth Jones's glorious literary worlds.
If you're a fan of When Gavin Met Stacey, you'll no doubt be familiar with Ruth Jones and her work on TV – but did you also know she's a fantastic author of novels? So far, Jones has released four fictional books which have been extremely popular. If you've finished the Radio Times Book Club, sponsored by Dr. Oetker Ristorante choice for November, you'll no doubt want to read even more from the talented Welsh woman. Read on for your guide to the books written by Ruth Jones and in which order you'd be best off reading them. Ruth Jones books in order: Never Greener (2018) Us Three (2020) Love Untold (2022) By Your Side (2025) When Gavin Met Stacey: And Everything In Between (2025 - with James Corden) Never Greener (2018) When Kate was 22, she had an affair with a married man, called Callum, and though it ended in heartbreak, Kate would go on to be a successful actress living in London with her lovely family. And while Callum also was happy in Scotland, a chance encounter between the pair changes everything. Should they risk everything for what could be? Us Three (2020) We all make a promise with someone to stay friends forever, but that can be a little tricky to stick to... Lana Judith and Catrin were best friends throughout primary school and were always there for each other, come what may. But an unexpected event shakes the group to the core and their future as a trio is now in doubt... can they recover what they once had before it's too late? Love Untold (2022) Grace is about to turn 90 and she absolutely doesn't want any fuss – the only thing she really desires is that her family's rift is healed. To do that, she must find her daughter Alys, the only person who can put things right, but she's been away for 30 years... with a lot left unsaid and too many wounds to mention, will Grace get her wish? By Your Side (2025) Linda Standish has been a friend to the friendless for over 30 years through her role at the council's Unclaimed Heirs Unit, and finally it's time for her to retire. But before she can, she takes on one final case about Levi Norman, a Welshman who made his home on a remote Scottish island before he died. Linda must track down his family to find out why he isolated himself and who from... When Gavin Met Stacey: And Everything In Between (2025 - with James Corden) Jones and collaborative partner James Corden recount the story of bringing Gavin & Stacey to the BBC, detailing its unlikely origins in an unassuming wedding which blended two very distinct families. The pair write in tandem, having a conversation with each other to bring together the creation – and subsequent endings – of one of the most popular sitcoms ever. For all the latest RT Book Club news, interviews, Q&As with the authors, reviews of previous books and more, visit The Radio Times Book Club sponsored by Dr. Oetker Ristorante. You can purchase When Gavin Met Stacey and Everything in Between, our book of the month, at the Radio Times Shop. Looking for more reading recommendations? Join the Radio Times Book Club here - we offer 3-month or 6-month memberships as well as monthly or quarterly subscriptions where you'll receive a new hardback chosen by the RT team delivered directly to your door!
What to read after When Gavin Met Stacey: 17 books for TV-obsessed readers
If you've raced through When Gavin Met Stacey, here's what you should read next...
If you've raced through the Radio Times Book Club sponsored by Dr. Oetker Ristorante pick for November already, you'll be on the look-out for some more books like it. When Gavin Met Stacey: And Everything In Between tells the story of the inception and subsequent creation of the iconic TV sitcom from the two people who made it, Ruth Jones and James Corden. From humble beginnings when Corden went to a wedding with a bunch of unique people to the very final episode which would be watched by over 19 million people, this is the definitive story of the sitcom that would capture hearts across the nation. You don't just have to be a fan of the show to love this one, though, if you're interested in TV production, that one would've no doubt been a fun read for you. So, if you're looking for your next TV-based read, whether fiction or non-fiction, read on to find out more. 17 books to read after When Gavin Met Stacey Parky: My Autobiography by Michael Parkinson The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series by Jessica Radloff Normal People: The Scripts by Sally Rooney, Alice Birch and Mark O'Rowe We're Falling Through Space: Doctor Who and Celebrating the Mundane by J David Reed Succession season one: The Complete Scripts by Jesse Armstrong Inside No. 9: The Scripts series 1-3 by Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith Love That Journey For Me: The Queer Revolution of Schitt's Creek by Emily Garside Lush! by Joanna Page Peaky Blinders - The Real Gangs and Gangsters by Carl Chinn Out of Character by Alison Steadman This Time Next Year by David Jason Jim Henson: The Biography by Brian Jay Jones No Lessons Learned: The Making of Curb Your Enthusiasm by Larry David Fleabag: The Scriptures by Phoebe Waller-Bridge TV: Big Adventures on the Small Screen by Peter Kay Life on Air by Sir David Attenborough Poirot and Me by David Suchet Parky: My Autobiography by Michael Parkinson Michael Parkinson enjoyed one of the most successful careers as an interviewer to date. Parky will recount his outstanding career and where it all started in this tell-all autobiography, packed with the humour he was so known for. The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series by Jessica Radloff Radloff tells the story from day one about The Big Bang Theory and speaks with the cast and crew who brought the globally-popular sitcom to life. Expect powerful and emotional stories in what is the ultimate celebration of Big Bang. Normal People: The Scripts by Sally Rooney, Alice Birch and Mark O'Rowe Sally Rooney's Normal People became an enormous hit when the BBC's adaptation of it took the world by storm. This version has the complete screenplays of the Emmy-nominated series along with iconic images from the show and an introduction by director Lenny Abrahamson. We're Falling Through Space: Doctor Who and Celebrating the Mundane by J David Reed In this essay, Reed explores what is really fantastical in the world of Doctor Who: is it the alien worlds or is it actually the mundanity of life? This is a must for academic fans of the popular BBC series who want to dive beyond usual coverage. Succession season 1: The Complete Scripts by Jesse Armstrong This collection of scripts gives a record of the first season of Succession, documenting, like never before, Logan Roy's need for a successor to his company. The book also features unseen material, like deleted scenes, alternative dialogue and character directions, offering a unique insight into the developmental process behind a masterpiece. Inside No. 9: The Scripts series 1-3 by Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith Step inside Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith's iconic and off-beat comedy series in this amazing collection. Here, you can read how the stories came to life with the funny and witty scripts. Love That Journey For Me: The Queer Revolution of Schitt's Creek by Emily Garside This unofficial book about Schitt's Creek discusses how the show reshapes LGBTQ+ narratives from the creation of the town itself, to how creator Dan Levy subverts expectations throughout his work, concluding on how the Netflix comedy is a cultural landmark. Lush! by Joanna Page The Radio Times Book Club sponsored by Dr. Oetker Ristorante host, Joanna Page, launched her own autobiography in 2025 – and it was a cracker. In this honest and at times hilarious book, Page recounts her story from early life growing up, moving to London and of course, starring as Stacey in Gavin & Stacey. Peaky Blinders – The Real Gangs and Gangsters by Carl Chinn Historial Carl Chinn uncovers the real Peaky Blinders behind the iconic TV show. This is a vivid and shocking portrait of Birmingham through the Victorian and Edwardian eras to unpick the storied histories of some vicious gangs and how they gained notoriety. Out of Character by Alison Steadman Alison Steadman has been a staple of the small screen in the UK for decades – and finally, the Pamela Shipman star is telling her story from growing up in post-war, working class Liverpool, to getting her big break and beyond – all while demonstrating her lovable personality. Expect giggles and honesty in this fantastic memoir. This Time Next Year by David Jason David Jason is of course known as the iconic Derek Trotter, and in this tell-all memoir, he recounts growing up in North Finchley in the rubble of the Blitz before finally catching a break and taking to the stage – it wasn't without its bumps along the way. Expect Jason's known warmth and humour to shine throughout this essential for fans of UK comedy. Jim Henson: The Biography by Brian Jay Jones This comprehensive biography tells the complete story of one of the most innovative and creative artists to have ever graced screens: Jim Henson. While he is known to many for his iconic characters (Kermit the Frog, Bert and Ernie, and of course, Miss Piggy, to name but a few), there's a remarkable life behind The Muppets not known to many, but told in his extensive book. No Lessons Learned: The Making of Curb Your Enthusiasm by Larry David This companion book for Curb Your Enthusiasm dives into one of the most successful US comedies of all time. Larry David is joined by the show's creators, cast and celebrity guests to uncover the making of the show and all its iconic moments. Plus, there's a helpful glossary to help untangle some of David's quirky terminology, like the stop-and-chat, chat-and-cut, pig parker and much more. Fleabag: The Scriptures by Phoebe Waller-Bridge This gorgeous book contains the filming scripts and never-before-seen stage directions from Phoebe Waller-Bridge's iconic (and award-winning) comedy series. Expect some surprising moments and plenty of laughs as you dive deeper into the glorious world she created for the BBC. TV: Big Adventures on the Small Screen by Peter Kay Peter Kay has always been a big lover of the small screen, that's no secret, and in this fun autobiography, the beloved comedian looks back at his life growing up in Bolton where the telly was a staple every evening. Expect his usual humour as he recalls his favourite TV moments before he eventually took the box by storm himself with Phoenix Nights and Max & Paddy – and even a little bit on his starring role in a much-talked-about episode of Doctor Who... Life on Air by Sir David Attenborough Sir David Attenborough has enjoyed one of the most successful careers of any television personality and is of course best-known for his extraordinary work as a natural history film-maker in a career that's spanned nearly six decades. In this volume of stories, Attenborough tells us about the people and animals he's met along the way making shows for TV. Poirot and Me by David Suchet The remarkable David Suchet recounts his experience playing Agatha Christie's iconic Hercule Poirot for almost a quarter of a century. The story is told as Suchet is filming his final ever episode where he starred as the Belgian detective for the last time. For all the latest RT Book Club news, interviews, Q&As with the authors, reviews of previous books and more, visit The Radio Times Book Club sponsored by Dr. Oetker Ristorante. You can purchase When Gavin Met Stacey and Everything in Between, our book of the month, at the Radio Times Shop. Looking for more reading recommendations? Join the Radio Times Book Club here - we offer 3-month or 6-month memberships as well as monthly or quarterly subscriptions where you'll receive a new hardback chosen by the RT team delivered directly to your door!
The Celebrity Traitors icon teams up with film legend for romantic Waitrose Christmas 2025 advert
Waitrose has recruited a star of The Celebrity Traitors for its Christmas advert.
Waitrose has released its Christmas advert – and it's a fun play on the festive rom-coms we return to every year. Keira Knightley is the female lead alongside an unlikely romantic interest: Joe Wilkinson, who is reprising his role as Phil from the 2024 whodunnit Christmas advert. In the adorable advert, titled The Perfect Gift, the couple have a meet-cute at a Waitrose cheese counter where they discover they share a love of the Sussex Charmer Mature Cheddar – something Phil turns out to be himself... We get to watch their adorable romance develop, not without hiccups admittedly, before Phil recreates Keira's Nan's pie recipe in the ultimate act of love. The small movie highlights centres around the idea of "saying it with food" because, if you can't say it at Christmas, when can you? Speaking of her role in the advert, Knightley says: "I love food, and so when I received this script where I get to fall head over heels in love over a shared love of cheese, I couldn't turn it down! I adored working on this silly, fun and delicious film with Joe and I hope those watching it fall in love too." View oEmbed on the source website If the box above is not showing, you may need to change your privacy settings. In the Radio Times site footer, click ‘Manage Privacy Settings’. Under ‘Site Vendors’, consent to ‘YouTube’, then press Save & Exit. Joe Wilkinson adds: "It was great to be back with Waitrose for their 2025 Christmas campaign. This year, Phil got to enjoy both the love and the food he truly deserved. As you can imagine, it was tough having to eat the delicious Waitrose food and falling in love with Keira, but I just got on with it, like the trooper I am!" The advert is soundtracked by James, and features their hit song She's a Star. Nathan Ansell, Waitrose Chief Customer Officer, says: “When it comes to Christmas, delicious food and drink play a central role in bringing people together and helping us show affection. This year, we welcomed British heroine, Keira Knightley, and Waitrose’ favourite, Joe Wilkinson, to help us show Food Lovers how to ‘say it with food’. “Our four minute Christmas film – an industry first – pays homage to the seasonal romantic comedy tradition, celebrates the exciting and elevated Waitrose festive food offering, and adds a little more of that warm, fuzzy feeling to the holiday season. It’s the perfect gift from Waitrose, to you.” Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.​
When Gavin Met Stacey details how a party brought about the finale
Warm, funny and unforgettable… Gavin & Stacey went out on a high – and all because of a Mexican mariachi party.
This month’s Radio Times Book Club, sponsored by Dr. Oetker Ristorante, pick tells the story of one of Britain’s best-loved comedies, in a series of conversations between its co-creators James Corden (Smithy) and Ruth Jones (Nessa). In this excerpt, they discuss how last Christmas's finale – watched by more than 20 million people — came to be… James: I’d always thought we should do another one. By the end of series three we had ten million viewers. And it just felt like the show wasn’t going away. People would keep saying, “Go on, do another one". Ruth: It was Mexico that clinched it. James: It was my 40th [in 2018] and my wife, Jules, organised a birthday weekend in Mexico. She flew in my oldest school friend, Sheddy, and she had friends from all over the world fly in. But it was all a massive surprise. Ruth: Julia messaged me and asked, “Would you consider coming to Mexico for it?” And it was strange, because you and I hadn’t really been massively in touch. In fact, I think the last time we’d seen each other was the previous Christmas, when you came over from LA and were staying in a hotel in London, and I remember going there to see you, and being very polite in front of you. Because at that stage you’d so gone into the stratosphere, fame-wise. And I think that disparity is difficult for people sometimes. So Mexico was really key, because then we spent time talking about what a new Gavin & Stacey episode would be. [Before that] I just didn’t want to go back there at all. And I think you did. Then in Mexico we all had to hide away. We knew that you were going to be inside this villa thing, and we all had to gather outside and put sombreros on. One by one, people had to go in. James: Yes, suddenly this mariachi band strikes up, and all these people come in. John Bishop’s there, and all these people I know are marching in wearing sombreros. Then someone opens my laptop, and Tom Cruise is on it, telling me that my mate Sheddy is here, and then he walks in, and then Jules goes, “There’s one more person here…” And you walked in, and I was unbelievably happy to see you. Ruth: It was so emotional. And it’s really weird, because I don’t think I always appreciate how much you love me. And partly I was thinking, “Surely he’ll be more excited about seeing John Bishop, or someone?” But I walked in and you literally burst into tears. I was kind of shocked that it meant so much to you. James: It was amazing. We had the best weekend. And because we’d always laughed about the fact that you had sung Wild Thing at your own wedding, we went to this restaurant and there was a band, and you got up and sang Wild Thing. Ruth: It was just something I decided to do on the spot. I knew the only way I would get away with it was to absolutely, completely give it my all. And not think about the fact that there were professional singers there. I mean, Harry Styles was there, for God’s sake – he looked a bit in shock. I don’t know if it was in a good way or bad. James: Yeah, it was an amazing time. And at some point during that birthday weekend, I said to you, “Do you want to think about doing more Gavin & Stacey? You know, I think it might be time.” Ruth: Yeah, we had that conversation sitting by the pool during the day. It wasn’t like a drunken sudden decision or anything. It had been mentioned over the years so many times and while I said I wasn’t keen to do it, there were times when I did think about it, because I remember I used to make notes and write down my thoughts about what could happen if we did do a new episode. And we used to text each other ideas and things like that as well. So it just felt, because now we’d finally come together after this period of not really being in touch, maybe that made it feel more concrete. I came away from the Mexico trip thinking, “Right let's do this..." HUNGRY FOR MORE? For this month’s midweek treat, Joanna read When Gavin Met Stacey and Everything in Between while enjoying her favourite pizza: Hawaii from Dr. Oetker Ristorante – a hotly debated topping that works perfectly together, just like Nessa and Smithy! For all the latest RT Book Club news, interviews, Q&As with the authors, reviews of previous books and more, visit The Radio Times Book Club sponsored by Dr. Oetker Ristorante. You can purchase When Gavin Met Stacey and Everything in Between, our book of the month, at the Radio Times Shop. Looking for more reading recommendations? Join the Radio Times Book Club here - we offer 3-month or 6-month memberships as well as monthly or quarterly subscriptions where you'll receive a new hardback chosen by the RT team delivered directly to your door!
Disney releases Christmas film from blockbuster director, as he reveals hidden Easter eggs within
Disney has unveiled its holiday short film for 2025, featuring a heartwarming character called "Doodle", played by the iconic John Goodman. There's a little girl at the centre of the story who writes a Christmas list for Santa and also pops on a small doodle creation for him, too. The next morning, while opening her presents, one starts to move and in a Christmas miracle, her drawing has come to life! While she has a fun year with Doodle, it's clear as they approach Christmas again that he longs for a mouth to be able to express himself. The little girl asks for a Mr Potato Head toy which she can then remove the mouth from and give to her friend who can then speak all he wishes. Watch the gorgeous film below: View oEmbed on the source website If the box above is not showing, you may need to change your privacy settings. In the Radio Times site footer, click ‘Manage Privacy Settings’. Under ‘Site Vendors’, consent to ‘YouTube’, then press Save & Exit. The director is none other than Taika Waititi, who also created last year's short, The Boy & The Octopus. Speaking of the film, Waititi said: "What makes this story uniquely Disney is the fact that it's set in the world of a kid. It's a kid and her new best friend, navigating the complex world together, and doing it just with the power of friendship and imagination." John Goodman added: "I’ve always loved being part of Disney stories because there’s a timelessness to Disney’s storytelling – it's fun, it’s heartfelt, and it reminds families of what really matters. This wonderful short captures that same spirit perfectly." Waititi went on to discuss how it's the perfect film for Disney fans as it contains some nods to iconic characters and movies gone by. "It’s always nice and fun to be able to put in Easter eggs from other things too. I mean, at one point we had way too many! That kid’s bedroom was like she owned a Disney store! We had to scale that back a couple of times. "The Stitch mouth is fantastic. In the park scene, deep in the background, there’s a little ice-cream cart with some balloons on top of it, from Up. The main stuff is really around the house, I think they’re very subtle." Furthermore, Waititi is keen to keep working on Disney shorts, adding: "I would love for the Taika Waititi Disney Christmas Short universe to just keep going, so we could try and do new, different things every year. For me, it's like making a Disney film, but without having to do five years of work! "I love creating these emotional stories with fantastical elements about the classic Disney themes like friendship, and being who you are, and putting others before you - all those things that we know from Disney films – but in short form. I get the best of both worlds, to do a bit of everything. I started out in short films. I made many short films before I made my first feature-length film, and I'd say that still, to me, it feels like one of the great forms of filmmaking." The advert ends with the core wish to "Make someone's holiday magic", in true Disney fashion. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.​
Disney reveals new Christmas advert from acclaimed Marvel blockbuster director – first look
We at RadioTimes.com can exclusively reveal a first look at Disney's Christmas advert for 2025. The title is "A Disney Holiday Short: Best Christmas Ever," and it is directed than none other than Academy Award winner Taika Waititi. The poster (below) shows a gorgeous and warm family home which has been decked out for Christmas in a snowy setting. A young girl can be seen in her pyjamas giving an enormous cuddle to a rather unique-looking creature. It's not quite clear what the creature is made from, but appears to be some kind of doodle brought to life. Either way, the young girl is ecstatic to see it! The full short will be launching soon, so keep your eyes peeled for what it might mean! Last year's Disney's Holiday Short was "The Boy & The Octopus", a sweet tale of wonder and friendship which played on the enduring connections that generations of adults and families across the world have with Disney. That one was also directed by Waititi, who's returning this year once more. Many retailers and companies have already released their Christmas adverts – and there's some cracking offerings already. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.​
Best Christmas adverts 2025: from Wallace & Gromit's cheeky ad with Barbour to John Lewis's tear-jerker
The nights are drawing in and Christmas is certainly approaching – in fact, all that's left now is for shops to deliver their highly-anticipated Christmas retailers. With the festive period being extremely lucrative for retailers as millions flock to the shops for the perfect gifts for their loved ones, it's important to make sure their shop is front of mind for Christmas prepping. Wallace & Gromit have made a welcomed return to screens in Barbour's festive offering and the Grinch even pops up in Asda's ad. One that always gets talked about, regardless of tone, is the John Lewis Christmas advert, which has released uncharacteristically early. Needless to say, it's beginning to look at lot like Christmas. Keep this page bookmarked as we update it with the best Christmas adverts for 2025 from across the UK as they land. Wallace & Gromit x Barbour View oEmbed on the source website Barbour has teamed up with Aardman once again for a fun and festive advert featuring the beloved Wallace & Gromit. In the cheeky advert, viewers are transported to Wallace & Gromit's house where the beloved pup can be seen wrapping a present as best he can for his best pal. Wallace comes in with his new invention, the "Gift-o-matic", which can give gifts, wrap presents, pull a cracker and even unwrap a present for you, fully taking the stress out of Christmas. But in true Wallace & Gromit style, the gizmo doesn't quite work too well and is a little more powerful than Wallace hoped for - with hilarious consequences. Barbour's Group Deputy Managing Director, Paul Wilkinson shared: "We are excited to be continuing our partnership with Aardman for another year; a brand, like Barbour, that is renowned for its heritage, nostalgia, craftsmanship and meticulous detail. This year's film bring a light-hearted charm to Barbour's Original and Authentic Tartans including the Classic Tartan Scarf and the exclusive, reimagined Winterberry Tartan wrapping Wallace's ingenious Gift-o-matic. Whilst rooted in our British heritage, the story's themes of generosity and togetherness resonate far beyond the UK, reflecting the universal spirit of the season." John Lewis: Where Love Lives View oEmbed on the source website John Lewis was among the first retailers to put out their Christmas advert, and this year's offering focuses on a father-son relationship. The son buys a present for his dad and, while he's nervous to give him it, it turns out to be the perfect gift – as the vinyl record transports him back in time to his glory days clubbing. It turns out that you don't need to have the words, so long as you can provide a thoughtful gift! The advert is soundtracked by two versions of Where Love Lives – by the original Alison Limerick and Labrinth. Morrisons: A Year in the Making View oEmbed on the source website Morrisons are shedding light on the manufacturing process in their Christmas advert, showcasing that it takes a lot of time to get food on the table – in fact, it starts a lot earlier than most think! Throughout the advert, soundtracked by Stop the Cavalry by Jona Lewie, unassuming customers see farmers and other produce growers continuing with their preparations for Christmas, even when the sun is shining. Matt McLellan, Morrisons Group Customer, Data & Marketing Director, said: "Our Christmas advert tells the story of how our festive fayre, such as our award-winning mince pies or delicious smoked salmon, appears on our shelves and the care and attention that our colleagues and food makers put into making them. "At Morrisons, our unique capabilities in fresh food mean we’ve been helping to make more of Christmas all year by growing, picking, baking, proving, prepping and planning to support our customers as the big day draws near." Debenhams: Christmas Delivered View oEmbed on the source website Peter Crouch, Judi Love and many more famous faces have come together to celebrate the Debenhams Christmas advert for 2025. In a feel-good celebration of the festive season, an unassuming and sleepy British street is transformed into a bright and sparkling parade, packed to the brim with British celebrities. Debenhams proudly announce that it's never too soon to be in the Christmas spirit, with Crouchy shouting: "Let's have it!" Commenting on the film, Dan Finley, CEO at Debenhams Group, said, “This year’s ‘Debenhams Delivered’ campaign captures the moment when the magic of Christmas quite literally lands on your doorstep. "At its heart, it’s about connection – bringing people together through joy, laughter and the ease of finding everything you need in one place. With familiar faces like Olivia Attwood, Peter Crouch and Judi Love leading the celebration, the film captures that unmistakable British warmth and humour. We want our customers to feel that same sense of sparkle and magic this Christmas.” Sainsbury's: The Unexpected Guest View oEmbed on the source website The BFG makes a surprise appearance in the Sainsbury's Christmas advert as they aim to provide good food for all, via innovative and affordable food for every customer. Sainsbury's colleagues team up with the BFG as they try to stop The Greedy Giant from eating up all the delicious food. By the end of the advert, Annie the worker reminds us all that it's always possible to make room for people at Christmas. Radha Davies, Sainsbury's Marketing Director, said: “We want to help our customers have an unforgettable and magical Christmas. Sainsbury’s is here to help the nation get ready for anything during the festive season, from spectacular centrepieces to showstopping desserts, our innovative range of high-quality Taste the Difference food makes hosting easy. There’s something for every occasion and to bring joy to all, even when the unexpected strikes. “We were delighted to revisit our collaboration with the Roald Dahl Story Company this year. The BFG, who is loved by all, was the perfect partner to help our brilliant colleague Annie save the day for our customers. We wanted to capture a spirit of heartwarming nostalgia, with the energy of a great Christmas tale. "We’ve translated that joyful energy into our new food range, which is designed to help families and friends create wonderful memories, with delicious, quality options for every taste and budget.” Asda: A Very Merry Grinchmas View oEmbed on the source website The iconic Grinch makes his return in Asda's fun and jovial Christmas advert, soundtracked with a special version of Let it Snow. This advert is built around the premise that everyone has a Grinch in their family – but with quality and prices that Asda boasts, they don't need to be! This Grinch find his heart melted by the green light of Asda as the impressive prices help him transform back into his human "dad" self. Rachel Eyre, Chief Customer Officer at Asda said: “We’re so excited to launch this year’s Christmas campaign. We all love Christmas, but we also know it can come with financial pressures. "That’s why this year, we’re focused on helping everyone enjoy the festive season we all deserve, filled with joy, celebration, and the reassurance of Asda Price. If we can win over the Grinch, the biggest cynic of all, then we know that with our unmatchable mix - amazing products at unbeatable value – we can all have a truly fabulous Christmas together at Asda.” Boots: Gift Happily Ever After View oEmbed on the source website Boots opens up the fairytale book for its Christmas advert as Puss in Boots has to find some presents for his friends, Rapunz, Snowy, Cinders and Prince Charming ahead of the Snow Queen's Ball. Puss heads to Boots to find some presents among the range of beauty gifts: the Shark Glam 5-in-1 Hot Tool for Rapunz, a No7 Pro Artist Lip Duo Set for Snowy, Carolina Herrera Good Girl Perfume for Cinders, and a No7 Cordless Mirror for Prince Charming. Delighted with their gifts, they head off together to the ball where The Snow Queen receives an extra special gift of hot hand warmers – thoughtful touches for every character. Laura Gooday, Director of Marketing at Boots said: "This year, more than ever, we want to help our customers gift happily ever after. Our campaign, brought to life by Puss and his fairytale friends, reminds everyone that Boots is the destination for finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list. "To help every gift-giver, we are delighted to have added a further 50+ gifting brands to our extensive line up this festive season, including a global debut and high street exclusive with White Fox, trending favourites such as Made by Mitchell and Beauty of Joseon, as well as beautiful gifts from customer favourite brands such as Bubble, LANEIGE and No7, and much more more, meaning there’s truly something for everyone.” Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.​
Wallace & Gromit return in cheeky Barbour Christmas advert
The best Christmas advert of the year may have just landed...
Iconic fashion brand Barbour has teamed up with Aardman once more for their annual Christmas advert. For the past two years, Barbour has collaborated with Shaun the Sheep for some festive fun, but this time they've switched it up and chosen to partner with global icons, Wallace & Gromit. In the advert, viewers are transported to Wallace & Gromit's home, where the beloved pup can be seen wrapping a present for his best friend as best he can. Wallace, ever the creator, decides to showcase his new invention: "Gift-o-matic". The gadget can give gifts, wrap presents, pull a cracker and even unwrap a present for you, fully taking the stress out of Christmas. As ever, Wallace's creation is a little, well, off, and when he sets the machine to unwrap his present from Gromit, he gets a little more than he bargained for, when it also unwraps him of his clothes! In a sweet move, Wallace and Gromit both buy each other the same Barbour Winterberry tartan scarf for each other, which they wear straight away – and surely Wallace will be grateful after losing all his clothes, too! Barbour is celebrating all things tartan after a successful Autumn/Winter 25 campaign, Ode to Ayrshire. Each season, the South Shields brand finds new palettes to celebrate the pattern and this year, the Winterberry colour-way will make a perfect present – just as it did for Wallace & Gromit. Barbour are also releasing more Re-loved jackets in partnership with Oxfam – you'll be able to find them in stores or via an online auction. Speaking of this year's advert, Barbour's Group Deputy Managing Director, Paul Wilkinson shared: "We are excited to be continuing our partnership with Aardman for another year; a brand, like Barbour, that is renowned for its heritage, nostalgia, craftsmanship and meticulous detail. View oEmbed on the source website "This year's film bring a light-hearted charm to Barbour's Original and Authentic Tartans including the Classic Tartan Scarf and the exclusive, reimagined Winterberry Tartan wrapping Wallace's ingenious Gift-o-matic. Whilst rooted in our British heritage, the story's themes of generosity and togetherness resonate far beyond the UK, reflecting the universal spirit of the season." Nick Park, creator of Wallace & Gromit, added: "Wallace & Gromit have always embodied warmth, eccentricity, and quintessential British charm, which makes them a wonderful fit for Barbour's Christmas storytelling. "The Gift-o-matic is a classic Wallace invention - brilliant, but with a few hiccups - and we're delighted to share this playful, festive tale with audiences this year, in hope that the love, craft, warmth and humour bring big smiles this Christmas." Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.​