Unheard Princess Diana audio tapes to air as part of new documentary series
The series will "challenge the reductive narrative that has too often framed Diana as a victim of her circumstances".
Never-before-heard tapes of Princess Diana discussing the breakdown of her marriage to Prince Charles will be heard for the first time in a new docuseries. Diana: The Unheard Truth, which is set to be released in August 2027 to coincide with the 30th anniversary of her death, will feature private taped conversations Diana had with her friend James Colthurst in 1991, which formed the basis of Andrew Morton’s book Diana: Her True Story. The tapes, which will be spread across three episodes for the series, feature intimate revelations, including Diana’s thoughts on her struggles with bulimia and her then-husband King Charles’s relationship with Queen Camilla. They also include the late Princess’s thoughts on her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, Sarah Ferguson and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. In the three decades since Diana’s death, less than one hour of the material has been heard publicly. The docuseries is coming to our screens courtesy of Love Monday TV, which has secured full access to the archive tapes in partnership with Morton and Colthurst, who also feature in the series. Details on where it will be broadcast or stream are yet to be announced. Love Monday TV said the series will "challenge the reductive narrative that has too often framed Diana as a victim of her circumstances". Instead, it will show "a resilient, perceptive, and relatable young woman, finding herself in the brightest of global spotlights, and navigating the challenges with grace, self-awareness, and determination". We'll also hear "her infectious humour and twinkling laughter, as she reveals the truth about life inside the most famous family in the world", as well as "her dreams for a future that could have been; a new chapter in which Charles goes off into the sunset with Camilla, leaving Diana free to carve her own path". 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. As well as the tapes, the docuseries will also feature perspectives from those closest to Diana including Delissa Needham, a prep schoolmate, hairdresser Sam McKnight and astrologer Penny Thornton. Other perspectives set to appear in the series include dancer Wayne Sleep, former bodyguard Ken Wharfe, royal press secretary Dickie Arbiter, photographer Kent Gavin and Daily Mail journalist Richard Kay. It follows a recent episode of Reporting History on ITV which shared previously unbroadcast footage of Princess Diana's famed visit to Angola in January 1997. Check out more of our Documentaries 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.
BBC confirms new "high stakes" and "intoxicating" legal thriller from A Woman of Substance producers
The drama will revolve around a celebrity legal battle that spirals out of control.
The BBC has announced that a new legal drama from the production company behind A Woman of Substance is on its way. The new series from The Forge (who have also produced Falling and Just Act Normal) is being described as an “audacious and glossy” thriller and will revolve around a celebrity legal battle that spirals out of control. The six-part drama "centres on Elaine, a formidable lawyer who has built her career defending free expression who gets pulled into the case of the decade representing global pop star Davina Knight," the official plot synopsis teases. It continues: "After Davina releases a provocative new song accusing her ex-husband, Billy, of abusive behaviour and he retaliates in kind, their private breakdown erupts into a very public libel battle." The synopsis adds: "The case is fought far beyond the courtroom, as PR machines are deployed, laws are bent and social media platforms become judge, jury and battleground - driving outrage for clicks and warping the truth." "For Elaine, the case puts her own personal life in the line of fire. How far will she go to win and at what cost? And for Davina, how far will she go to protect her reputation?" Writer Anya Reiss (Becoming Elizabeth) said of the series' origins in a statement: "When I found out London was the global capital of high stakes libel cases - where the rich, powerful and famous come to fight in public for their reputations - I was in." She added: "I’ve loved writing this world and now I’m excited to get it off the page and onto the screen.” The series has been produced by The Forge, while Alex Kazamia (Generation Z) will produce and Mahalia Belo (The End We Start From) will direct. Executive producers are George Ormond, Jade Taylor (Just Act Normal), Anya Reiss and Mahalia Belo. Meanwhile, alongside Anya Reiss, other writers on the series are Shyam Popat and Karla Crome. George Ormond, executive producer and joint managing director for The Forge said: “We are so excited to be working with Anya again – her scripts are sharp, badly behaved, very funny and totally addictive.” Lindsay Salt, director of BBC drama, added: “Reputation is high-stakes, intoxicating and hugely entertaining, with a lot to say about the world. In Elaine and Davina the brilliant Anya Reiss has created two lead characters for the ages, and we’re delighted to be working with her, Mahalia and the team at The Forge to bring this very public battle to BBC iPlayer and BBC One.” 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.
Doctor Who legend William Hartnell's granddaughter reacts to seeing actor in newly-recovered episodes
"I can’t imagine how thrilled he would have been..."
William Hartnell’s granddaughter, Jessica Carney, has reacted to seeing the actor in the newly-recovered Doctor Who episodes The Nightmare Begins and Devil's Planet. The black-and-white episodes, which first aired in the 1960s and form part of the 12-part serial The Daleks' Master Plan, were released on iPlayer last month after being discovered in a private collection donated to Leicester charitable trust Film is Fabulous. Written by Terry Nation, the episodes star Hartnell - who died in 1975 at the age of 67 - as the first incarnation of the Doctor and follow him as he battles against a Dalek planning to take over Earth, the solar system and the galaxy. Speaking about the restored episodes featuring her late grandfather, Carney told Doctor Who Magazine: "I thought it was wonderful that these had been found." She added: "And I can’t imagine how thrilled he would have been to know that at this point people are still watching it and they’re still excited to see the episodes." Speaking about how brilliant Hartnell is in the episodes, she said: "Very funny. Great timing." View oEmbed on the source website Carney isn't the only Doctor Who star's relative to respond to the newly recovered episodes. Georgia Tennant recently revealed her actor husband David Tennant, who starred as the Tenth and Fourteenth Doctors, has been enjoying the restored instalments as well. In a video posted to her Instagram story last month, Georgia jokingly looks unimpressed while the show's theme tune plays in the background. Text over the video reads: "Lost my husband to @BBCiplayer." Current Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies expressed his excitement last month following the news that the episodes had been found and restored. He wrote on Instagram: "Two missing Doctor Who episodes FOUND! The Nightmare Begins and Devil's Planet from 1965 (what titles!). Lost for 61 years! Best of all, these will be made available for FREE on the BBC iPlayer in April." He added: "Huge thanks to the amazing people at Film is Fabulous, for finding these and returning them safely. They're a registered charity doing great work, so help them out if you can. Maybe they'll find more! As the Doctor says… 'Daleks!'" The latest issue of Doctor Who Magazine is out now. Doctor Who: The Nightmare Begins and Devil’s Planet are available to watch now on BBC iPlayer. Dive into our Doctor Who story guide: reviews of every episode since 1963, plus cast & crew listings, production trivia, and exclusive material from the Radio Times archive. Missing Doctor Who? Register now for Radio Times' Doctor Who Insiders club for exclusive interviews with Doctor Who legends every month. Add Doctor Who to your watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more.
Mary Berry to receive special honour at the BAFTA Television Awards 2026 - as she reveals her proudest TV moment
The cookery star said the accolade was a "huge honour".
Mary Berry is set to receive the BAFTA Fellowship for her exceptional contribution to television. The 91-year-old, who is a broadcasting phenomenon with a career spanning six decades, said it is "the icing on the cake" to learn she is to be honoured with the accolade. Dame Mary will be presented with the Fellowship - which is "in recognition of an outstanding and exceptional contribution to film, games or television" - during the BAFTA Television Awards with P&O Cruises ceremony in May. She said in a statement: "I couldn’t believe it was true, what a huge honour to be presented with the BAFTA Fellowship." She continued: "For over 50 years, I have enjoyed every moment of teaching my passion on television and I thank all the generous professionals along the way who have given me guidance and support - and I am still learning. This amazing BAFTA Fellowship is the icing on cake!" The much-loved broadcaster and chef first appeared on television in the 1970s and has appeared on screen regularly ever since. She is best known for her role as a judge on The Great British Bake Off, and has also hosted several self-titled shows for the BBC. <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/12/A-Mary-Berry-Christmas-bd65af9.jpg" width="1802" height="1202" alt="TX DATE:17-11-2025,TX WEEK:46,EMBARGOED UNTIL:01-12-2025 00:01,DESCRIPTION:with her Fillet of Beef,COPYRIGHT:Banijay UK,CREDIT LINE:BBC/Sidney Street Productions for Darlow Smithson Productions/Banijay UK/Richard Hill" title="546588,TITLE:A Mary Berry Christmas" /> BAFTA said: "Mary’s role as a judge on The Great British Bake Off was nothing short of transformative. By shifting the genre towards a format rooted in warmth and encouragement, she inspired a national resurgence in home baking and established a new paradigm for competitive programming, one that champions craft and joy." The star said her proudest moment on TV so far was filming with the Prince and Princess of Wales for her Christmas special, A Berry Royal Christmas, in 2019. "They put their whole heart into making roulades and achieved great things, with a lot of laughter," she said. BAFTA chief executive Jane Millichip said: "Dame Mary Berry is a singular talent whose warmth, craft and generosity have helped shape the very best of British television." She continued: "Mary Berry for more than 60 years has informed, inspired and entertained audiences, setting a new benchmark for factual entertainment, proving that expertise and empathy can draw huge audiences in primetime. "The BAFTA Fellowship is our highest honour, and we’re proud to celebrate Mary’s extraordinary legacy at this year’s BAFTA Television Awards." The BAFTA Television Awards with P&O Cruises ceremony will take place on Sunday 10 May at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall. The ceremony will be hosted by Greg Davies and will be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Previous recipients of the honour include Dame Joanna Lumley, Kirsty Wark and Sir David Attenborough, who will soon be celebrating his 100th birthday. The BAFTA TV Awards will air on BBC One and iPlayer on Sunday 10 May 2026. 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.
Former EastEnders favourite to play Hannibal Lecter in an all-new UK tour
The tour will kick off in August at Leicester's Curve Theatre.
Former EastEnders star John Partridge is set to star as Dr Hannibal Lecter, one of the most famous fictional serial killers, in a stage adaptation of Silence of the Lambs. The play, which has been adapted by Gina Gionfriddo from Thomas Harris's book of the same name, will open at Curve Theatre, Leicester, where it will run from 1 to 15 August 2026 before touring across the UK and Ireland. The official synopsis for the production reads: "When FBI trainee Clarice Starling is sent to interview the psychiatrist and infamous murderer Hannibal Lecter, it’s hoped his brilliant mind will help catch the sadistic new serial killer, Buffalo Bill. "Another girl is missing, and time is running out. But Dr Lecter has questions of his own, and now Clarice must decide: keep a safe distance, or let Hannibal ‘The Cannibal’ into her head?" Partridge is best known for appearing as Christian Clarke in EastEnders, as well as his stage roles, which include The Rum Tum Tugger in Cats the musical and Hugo Battersby in Everybody’s Talking About Jamie. The actor's casting as Dr Hannibal Lecter will see him follow in the footsteps of Anthony Hopkins, who played the character in the 2001 film of the same name, and Mads Mikkelsen, who appeared in the leading role in the hit TV series Hannibal. Partridge said of his casting in a statement: "How often does an actor get to play a role that by simply saying the character’s name, it takes your breath away. It’s a huge honour, and I intend to savour every morsel of it!’’ Curve's artistic director, Nikolai Foster, who's serving as director, added: “Taking on a role like Hannibal Lecter requires real guts, tenacity and an appetite to confront the darkest depths of the human condition. "Working with John on the role has been incredibly inspiring - his instincts are razor sharp - and there is no finer actor to bring to life Thomas Harris’s most chilling creation in our world premiere stage adaptation.” Head to our Going Out section for exclusive interviews with West End stars, like why Elaine Paige would never return to the West End and Rachel Zegler on the Evita balcony scene.
Jennifer Garner and Humans favourite's "glossy, sun-soaked" drama series releases first look as UK home revealed
Sky has unveiled a first-look trailer for its Jennifer Garner and Gemma Chan-starring show The Five Star Weekend – and it teases moments of intense joy and grief. The series, which is being described as a “glossy, sun-soaked” drama and is based on the best-selling book series, will debut in July on Sky and NOW in the UK and Ireland. The plot follows Hollis Shaw (Garner), a famed cook and best-selling author known for her delicious recipes and warm demeanour. However, when she suffers a devastating loss, the cracks in her picture-perfect life soon begin to emerge - her strained marriage and complicated relationship with her daughter, and her need for validation from fans. Hollis decides to host a soul-searching weekend away at her house on Nantucket with four friends from different stages of her life, during which boundaries are pushed and secrets soon bubble to the surface, leading to a getaway like no other. The trailer gives fans a first look at Chan (Humans), D'Arcy Carden (The Good Place), Regina Hall (Girl's Trip) and Chloë Sevigny in action as the four friends joining Hollis on the weekend away. "He's gone, and now you have to live," Chan's character Gigi tells Hollis at the start of the trailer, before things take a darker turn, with D'Arcy Carden’s character Brooke saying: “Doesn’t she deserve to know the truth, even if it hurts?" You can watch the trailer for yourself below: View oEmbed on the source website The cast is rounded out by Harlow Jane as Hollis's daughter, Timothy Olyphant, Judy Greer, Rob Huebel and David Denman. Tory Devon Smith also stars, alongside Josh Hamilton, Roberta Colindrez, West Duchovny and Morrison Keddie. Behind the camera, Bekah Brunstetter, Sue Naegle, Ali Krug, Jennifer Garner, Elin Hilderbrand, Merri Howard, Beth Schacter and Minkie Spiro serve as executive producers. The series is produced by Universal Content Productions, a division of Universal Studio Group, and was acquired for Sky by Lucy Criddle, Director of Acquisitions & Strategic Projects. Speaking about the acquisition of the series, Criddle said: “We're delighted to be bringing this glossy, character‑led drama to our Sky and NOW audiences this summer, based on the best-selling novel of the same name. With an ensemble cast, led by Jennifer Garner, it is the perfect addition to our slate." The Five Star Weekend will debut in July on Sky and NOW in the UK and Ireland. Add The Five Star Weekend to your watchlist on the <a id="OWA8b702c45-bee9-94e4-f018-57518e78041b" title="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" href="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-outlook-id="449c28d9-909e-4aab-b6b8-153454f55d5e" data-linkindex="0">Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. 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.
BBC finally confirms air date of 'missing' episode of The Morecambe and Wise Show - and it's soon
The lost episode will be shown on BBC Four and iPlayer next month.
The BBC has finally confirmed when a lost episode of Morecambe and Wise is set to be broadcast - and there isn’t too long to wait. It was announced last week that an episode of the legendary sketch show starring the British comedy icons from season 1 - which wasn’t archived at the time of broadcast - had been recovered. The episode, which was previously thought to be lost forever, was discovered at the estate of a former TV professional by Film Is Fabulous! - a charitable trust run by film collectors and television enthusiasts. Now, the BBC has revealed that the episode, which first aired on 16 September, 1968, will be shown on BBC Four and BBC iPlayer on Thursday 14 May 2026 - the day that Eric Morecambe would have turned 100. BBC Four will also air a collection of sketches called The Perfect Morecambe and Wise to mark the anniversary. The ‘missing’ episode, which was the third instalment from Morecambe and Wise’s first series after returning to the BBC, features British actress Ann Hamilton appearing in a sketch set in a nudist colony, as well as Jenny Lee-Wright playing Morecambe’s niece. It also includes a musical performance from the female trio The Paper Dolls. Noreen Adams, Director of BBC Archives, said in a statement: “Morecambe and Wise are one of the UK’s most loved comedy duos. Thanks to Film Is Fabulous! - we’re delighted to share this comedy gold that we thought was lost forever with viewers across the UK." Eric Morecambe’s daughter, Gail Morecambe, added that she's "really looking forward to seeing it on a screen once again after so many years", and that she's "especially thrilled that it coincides with my father’s centenary year". Eric Morecambe’s son, Gary Morecambe, said: "I honestly didn’t think there was anything out there left to find, and when something like this comes out of nowhere, it’s really quite wonderful." Last month, Film is Fabulous restored missing Doctor Who episodes The Nightmare Begins and Devil's Planet, which were broadcast back in November 1965. Both episodes are available now on BBC iPlayer. The Morecambe and Wise Show is available to stream on BBC iPlayer. Check out more of our Comedy 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.
Friends icon Lisa Kudrow reveals eye-watering amounts cast get from endless reruns of beloved sitcom
Kudrow and her co-stars earn an astounding amount a year in residuals when Friends is re-aired.
Friends star Lisa Kudrow has revealed the amount of money she and her former cast mates receive in residuals more than 20 years after the beloved sitcom ended. The actress, along with her co-stars Jennifer Aniston, Matt LeBlanc, Courteney Cox, David Schwimmer and the late Matthew Perry, all rose to global stardom over the course of the show’s 10-season run between 1994 and 2004. Although the six cast members reportedly started out on $22,500 per episode in season 1, they famously negotiated together to increase their salaries to $1 million per episode in the last two seasons, and earned at least $2.5 million each for featuring in the 2021 reunion episode, according to Variety. Now, Kudrow and her co-stars earn an astounding $20 million a year in residuals when Friends is re-aired, Kudrow recently revealed in an interview with The Times. Kudrow went on to elaborate on the show’s enduring legacy, saying that she rewatched it after Perry's death in 2023. "After Matthew died I watched the show again. Before, I only saw what I did wrong or could have done better, but for the first time I truly appreciated just how great it was," she said. She continued: "Because there was a genius at work. And whatever any of us do in the future, we will never experience something like that again. I felt I did OK, but Jennifer and Courteney? Amazing. David and Matt? They had me laughing so hard. And then Matthew – he was just beyond us all." Kudrow previously said she’d love to see a reboot of Friends – a topic that has long been debated by fans – but on the condition that there’s an entirely new cast. She told Where Is the Buzz: "I don’t think there’s going to be a Friends reboot. I mean, not with any of us in it; not that Marta [Kauffman] and David [Crane] are writing." "But a reboot, you mean like they hire other actors?" she continued, adding that she would be keen to see that version materialise. "I would love to see what that would be," she said. "That would be really good." Check out more of our Comedy 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.
Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse lead tributes to dog and "greatest little chum" Ted from Gone Fishing
Ted the Dog became a fan favourite among Gone Fishing viewers thanks to his playful presence and toothy overbite.
Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse have led tributes to their much-loved Gone Fishing companion, Ted the dog. The beloved canine, who regularly accompanied the comedians on their angling adventures on their BBC series, has passed away and will make his last appearance in the forthcoming ninth series, the BBC confirmed. Mortimer said in a statement: "So very, very sad. Lovely Ted, the best companion and the greatest little chum. Going to miss him so much.. and away boss." Whitehouse also paid tribute to Ted, saying: "Bye bye Ted old friend. He wasn’t a dog, he was a species all of his own. He’s gone to the great briefcase emporium in the sky. We will really miss you mate." Ted was owned by Gone Fishing executive producer Lisa Clark after she rescued him from a dog’s home in Surrey in 2013. Clark said: "Ted was a much-loved family pet as well as a treasured companion to Paul and Bob on Gone Fishing. He took fame in his little stride and loved nothing better than messing around on the riverbanks, nicking jammy dodgers from Bob and bait from Paul." She continued: "He will be sorely missed both at home and on screen. We’ll never forget him. He is survived at home by Bo the Briard.” Ted made his first appearance on the show - which combines fishing adventures with personal stories and reflections on life - in series 3 in 2020, and soon became a fan favourite among viewers. Whether it was impromptu swims while the hosts were trying to fish, stealing picnic food or countless other mischievous moments, he often stole the scene with his playful presence and toothy overbite. During the Gone Fishing Christmas special in Cornwall in 2025, he received the lifetime achievement award. During a guest spot on Saturday Kitchen back in November 2025, Mortimer revealed that Ted was 15 years old and experiencing some age-related health issues. "He still loves coming out with us, and he seems very happy," Mortimer said of his trusty canine friend. He added: "He doesn't have to be wheeled around all the time, but for longer journeys, up the river bank, we put him in a pram now."
The Hardacres season 2 finally has release date confirmed for 'electric' new episodes
The drama will be back on our screens next month.
5 has finally revealed when fans can expect The Hardacres season 2 to land – and there isn't too long to wait! The drama, which is based on the novel series by C L Skelton and revolves around the titular family as they navigate their rise from rags to riches during the 1890s, is set to return on Thursday 14 May at 9pm on 5. Season 2 will follow the Hardacres heading into 1985 as they continue to try and find their feet after rising from poverty to wealth, while also navigating various modern changes in daily life. There’s also a new enemy for the family to contend with: Lady Imelda Hansen (played by A Very British Scandal's Michele Dotrice), the mother of their neighbour Emma. "It’s 1895, and modernity is arriving at Hardacre Hall – bringing with it electricity, new ideas and new relationships," the official synopsis teases. It continues: "Hungry for new challenges, Mary champions adult education, while Sam takes steps amid a looming recession to expand the family business. Not least while wondering if Joe is truly ready to take the reins. "A chance encounter starts an intense romance for Liza. Harry’s passion for education is reignited with the help of a new tutor, and Joe embraces married life with Betsy." Returning cast members include Claire Cooper and Liam McMahon, who are reprising their roles as Mary and Sam Hardacre. Julie Graham will also be back as Mary's mother, Ma, alongside Adam Little, Shannon Lavelle, and Zak Ford-Williams, who will reprise their roles as the Hardacre children Joe, Liza, and Harry, respectively. Other returning faces include Holly Sturton, Cathy Belton, Owen Roe, Ingrid Craigie, and Sarah Agha. Meanwhile, other new additions to the cast alongside Dotrice include Niall McNamee (Saipan) as Edward Blackwood, and Edward Mitchell (Justice League) as Arthur Lewis. The Hardacres season 2 will premiere on Thursday 14 May at 9pm on 5. 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.
Iconic '00s Scottish TV series confirmed to be revived and reimagined for an all-new "family saga"
Filming is set to kick off on the series later this year.
Iconic Scottish TV series Monarch of the Glen is officially returning to screens, with a new revival of the series coming to 5. The new series, which is being produced by Ecosse Films – makers of the original Monarch of the Glen series – and Masterpiece PBS, is being described as “a fresh reimagining” of the iconic show, which aired between 2000 and 2005 and is loosely based on the Highland Novels series by Sir Compton Mackenzie. The revival will return to the Scottish Highlands for “a rich, romantic and humorous family saga rooted in legacy, love and survival”, 5 has teased. "When high-flying London lawyer Isla Campbell finds herself back at her family's crumbling Highland estate for her estranged father's funeral, she expects to be gone in days," the official plot synopsis teases. "Instead, she discovers she has inherited a million-pound debt, a bank closing in, and a brother who refuses to let go of their ancestral home. Under the same roof for the first time in years, brother and sister will have to find a way to save the struggling estate before time runs out and they lose it for good." The new series is created, written and executive produced by Jeremy Brock (A Very Royal Scandal), alongside writer Stephen Greenhorn (Dept Q), while Tom Vaughan (Doctor Foster) serves as director and executive producer. Alex Boyd (How to Get to Heaven from Belfast), Robert Bernstein and Douglas Rae (Monarch of the Glen) serve as producers alongside executive producers Rob Darnell and Adam Duncan for Ecosse Films. Susanne Simpson is the executive producer for Masterpiece. Cast details will be announced in due course. Brock said in a statement: “When I was offered the chance to re-imagine Monarch of the Glen, I leapt at it. I’m hugely excited by the opportunity to tell a story of family life and finding your place in our hectic world - one that celebrates the warmth, humour and eccentricities of a special community, with both optimism and authenticity. "Hope and joy are a currency in short supply right now, and the Highlands – one of the most magical places on Earth – felt like exactly the right home for them.” Bernstein added: “Monarch of the Glen holds a very special place in our hearts, and we are absolutely thrilled to be bringing this beloved show to the next generation of viewers." Filming will take place in Scotland and Northern Ireland later this year. 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.
New BBC Radio 2 breakfast host Sara Cox's "heartwarming and wonderful" show gets future confirmed
The Marvellous Miniature Workshop is returning for an extended second season. The hit series, which is hosted by BBC Radio 2 host Sara Cox and produced by EarlyBird, has been commissioned for more than double the original number of episodes in the first season, expanding from eight to 20 instalments. The episodes have also been extended to 45 minutes. The programme sees a team of artists who specialise in making miniatures of things recreate cherished buildings and locations of great personal significance to various contributors, who tell presenter Cox about their stories during the show. Cox said in a statement that she's "absolutely over the moon about the new series of Marvellous Miniature Workshop". She added: "It’s easily the most heartwarming & wonderful programme I’ve ever been involved with.” EarlyBird founder Dom Bird added: "I’m delighted Sara’s returning to BBC One for this new run. Seeing audiences respond so positively to The Marvellous Miniature Workshop has been a real pleasure and I’m thrilled that the BBC has commissioned EarlyBird to deliver this super-sized order. "These extended 45-minute episodes will enable Sara to immerse viewers even further into the extraordinary artistry of our miniaturists, showcasing the programme’s exceptional ability to capture the magic in the minutiae.” The Marvellous Miniature Workshop season 1 premiered on BBC One back in December and soon became a hit with viewers and critics alike. Miniature recreations during the first season included a 1980s east London school classroom, which captured memories of a teacher. Another episode focused on the recreation of a derelict library in Manchester, which captured a love story that began there. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guideand Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
The Day of the Jackal season 2 release date speculation and latest news
Cameras are rolling on the fearsome assassin's next chapter.
The Day of the Jackal season 2 is finally gaining momentum, with filming kicking off in Budapest, Hungary earlier this year. The new episodes have endured a long gestation period, during which time series creator Ronan Bennett unexpectedly parted ways with the production, prompting concern from fans over its slow progress. Fortunately, screenwriter David Harrower (Lockerbie: A Search for Truth) stepped in to take his place, cooking up a fresh assignment for Eddie Redmayne's chilling contract killer, known to the intelligence community as 'The Jackal'. The first season ended with a dramatic showdown between The Jackal and tenacious MI6 agent Bianca Pullman (Lashana Lynch), who came agonisingly close to bringing him down – but lost her life in the botched attempt. If you're excited for what comes next, read on for everything we know so far about The Day of the Jackal season 2. The Day of the Jackal season 2 release date speculation The Day of the Jackal season 2 does not yet have a confirmed release date, but unfortunately, it seems that fans have a while longer to wait until the new episodes arrived. American streaming platform Peacock renewed the spy thriller back in November 2024, but development on new episodes seemed to slow down after that announcement, culminating in a major behind-the-scenes shake-up in the following September. Series creator and season 1 head writer Ronan Bennett ended up parting ways with The Day of the Jackal to pursue other projects, leaving screenwriter David Harrower (Lockerbie: A Search for Truth) to take his place in the top job. Since then, production has ramped up once more, with filming finally getting started in February 2026. The first season filmed for a whopping seven months, so if this latest shoot is comparable it will take up much of the remainder of the year. That means we're now looking at a likely premiere date for The Day of Jackal season 2 in summer/autumn 2027, almost three years since the first episode dropped. Here's hoping interest hasn't waned by then. Who could return for The Day of the Jackal season 2? <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2024/10/0902TheDayOfTheJackalS01-0686b32.jpg" width="4500" height="3005" alt="An unrivalled and highly elusive lone assassin, the Jackal, (Eddie Redmayne) makes his living carrying out hits for the highest fee. But following his latest kill, he meets his match in a tenacious British intelligence officer (Lashana Lynch) who starts to track down the Jackal in a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase across Europe, leaving destruction in its wake." title="The Day of The Jackal" /> Eddie Redmayne will reprise his role in The Day of the Jackal season 2, playing the eponymous international assassin who narrowly avoided arrest in the previous chapter. The unsuccessful attempt to capture him tragically claimed the lives of Lashana Lynch's Bianca and Nick Blood's Vincent Pyn, two intelligence agents who were lethally outfoxed by their target. That leaves room in the cast for some new additions, with Pablo Schreiber (His & Hers, Halo) and Weruche Opia (Bait, I May Destroy You) joining as series regulars – but the details of their roles are yet to be revealed. Details are scarce on returning cast members, but Money Heist alum Úrsula Corberó seems a likely bet, given that season 1 ended with her cold-blooded ex-boyfriend tracking her and their son around the world. Charles Dance, Eleanor Matsuura and Chukwudi Iwuji could also reprise their roles as billionaire Timothy Winthrop, his associate Zine Jansone and MI6 official Osita Halcrow, respectively. Here's an overview of The Day of the Jackal cast in full: Eddie Redmayne as The Jackal / Alexander Duggan Úrsula Corberó as Nuria Gonzalez Martin Chukwudi Iwuji as Osita Halcrow Khalid Abdalla as Ulle Dag Charles Lia Williams as Isabel Kirby Eleanor Matsuura as Zina Jansone Charles Dance as Timothy Winthrop The Day of the Jackal season 2 plot theories: What could happen next? No plot details have been shared about The Day of the Jackal season 2, but it's likely to pick up where the preceding finale left off. When we last saw The Jackal, he was determined to track down his wife, Nuria, who fled with their son after learning the extent of his crimes. Nevertheless, he had no plans to change his ways. Instead, businesswoman Zina Jansone arranged a meeting with him to discuss a high-profile new target in the form of wealthy targeting financier Timothy Winthrop. The Day of the Jackal producer Gareth Neame has previously hinted that season 2 could involve more direct connections with the illustrious source material, penned by Frederick Forsyth. He told Variety that there were "lots of elements from the novel that we didn't utilise in season 1" that could be folded into future instalments – and let known his intention for season 2 to be "another very lavish" thriller. Is there a trailer for The Day of the Jackal season 2? There's nothing yet, but we'll update this page once that changes. In the meantime, here's a refresher on season 1: View Green Video on the source website The Day of the Jackal is available on Sky Atlantic and NOW. Add The Day of the Jackal to your watchlist on the <a id="OWA8b702c45-bee9-94e4-f018-57518e78041b" title="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" href="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-outlook-id="449c28d9-909e-4aab-b6b8-153454f55d5e" data-linkindex="0">Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. 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.
BBC Radio 2 in the Park confirms schedule shake-up as dates for festival shift
BBC Radio 2 has announced plans to push back its flagship festival, Radio 2 in the Park, due to concerns about the impact on other musical festivals. The three-day event at City Park in Stirling was initially due to take place from Friday 7 August to Sunday 9 August. But organisers have now said it will be pushed back a month to September. New dates for the festival and the full-line up are yet to be confirmed. The schedule shake-up comes amid concerns “about the impact of staging it in August, when other music festivals are taking place in the locality”. Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2 addressed the shake-up in a statement, saying: “Our aim has always been to bring a brilliant event to Stirling, providing value for Scottish audiences and making a positive impact on the local community, just as we have done in Leicester, Preston and Chelmsford in previous years. "We’ve worked closely with the Scottish Independent Festival Association (SIFA) to find a solution that supports a brilliant summer of music across Scotland." She added: “While tickets are yet to go on sale, we appreciate this may affect the plans of some people who were ready to join us in August, and we are sorry if this is the case. It is why we wanted to confirm the change as soon as we could. “We’re excited to be bringing the very best of Radio 2 to Stirling and we’ll have announcements on the amazing artists who’ll be joining us very soon.” Last year, the festival was held in Chelmsford, Essex, and featured headline performances from Bryan Adams and Def Leppard, as well as appearances from the likes of Jessie J, Belinda Carlisle and Ronan Keating. The event brings together some of the biggest UK and international music acts and Radio 2 favourites. A Stirling Council spokesperson said: “We are delighted that BBC Radio 2 in the Park is coming to Scotland for the first time to City Park Stirling, which has a proven track record of successfully hosting large-scale events. We can’t wait to welcome fans and artists to our amazing city for an unforgettable celebration of world-class live music.” A SIFA spokesperson said: “Scotland is a wonderful place to host events of every scale, and the Scottish independent festival sector is a much-loved part of the cultural and economic life of communities right across the country. “We're grateful to the BBC for the thoughtful way they've engaged to consider the right timing and structure for this event, and we look forward to working with the BBC, EventScotland, VisitScotland, Stirling Council and other partners to make the weekend a great success and to keep Scotland's whole festival landscape thriving.” 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.
Game of Wool winner reveals adorable exclusive look at new CBeebies show Froglets – and why it feels unique to modern children's TV
The show will follow the adventures of a trio of amphibian friends crafted by Holger Auffenberg.
A children's TV show starring wool frogs hand-knitted by Game of Wool winner Holger Auffenberg is coming to CBeebies – and now Radio Times can share an exclusive new look at the series. Froglets will follow the adventures of a trio of amphibian friends crafted by Auffenberg – who was crowned the winner of Tom Daley's first season of Game of Wool in December 2025 – and brought to life by a team of puppeteers as they navigate life together in a house. The pre-school show will arrive on 11 May 2026 on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer. Speaking exclusively to Radio Times about what viewers can expect from Froglets, which is narrated by comedy star Sue Perkins, Holger said it will follow "the everyday adventures of a group of three best friends living together in a suburban house. But they’re knitted. And they’re frogs. And nobody but the dog knows they’re there." He added: "It’s a charming series aimed at pre-schoolers, who can follow our intrepid three as they navigate the world of the humans with unlimited imagination and an unfeasibly large wardrobe of fabulous outfits." He continued: "It's really a show that will inspire children to be creative and have fun playing with the simplest and humblest things they find in their own home." Talking about the series' origins, Holger added: "We first started developing this a few years ago when we noticed a big knitted-frog trend on Instagram led by various creators, including Claire Garland (AKA @dotpebbles_knits), and the charming cottagecore feel transpiring from this trend was one of the first inspirations for the production team." In terms of what makes the show unique among modern children's TV, Holger said: "We went for an overall feel that is, at the same time, both endearingly old-school and very modern. "Froglets is a slower, more thoughtful pace that gives children time to engage and absorb, very much in keeping with the CBeebies approach." Rather than using CGI for the series, a bespoke technical filming set-up was developed in order to film the Froglets as live action. Holger added: "The characters are animated in a deliberately simple and naive way by traditional puppeteers, because this reflects the way they would be moved around if a child were to play with them. As a result, there is a very honest and wholesome feeling to the stories." The series, which was created by Massimo Fenati, was commissioned by Rai Kids, Italy and is an international partnership between Eaglet Pictures and Pesci Combattenti (Italy). Tess Cuming serves as executive producer, while Riccardo Mastropietro helms and produces the episodes. Froglets will air on 11 May on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer. 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.
Take That and This Morning icons confirmed to front revamped ITV weekend line-up
Two brand new series have been announced as part of the line-up.
ITV has announced a host of new commissions for its weekend morning line-up, with Gary Barlow and Dermot O’Leary among the presenters set to front shows as part of the revamped schedule. The Take That icon will return for a third instalment of Gary Barlow’s Wine Tour series later this year, with Gary travelling to New Zealand alongside singer, presenter and actor Jason Manford. This Morning star O’Leary will also be back with a second season of Dermot’s Taste of Ireland, which is set to kick off this weekend. The new series will see the presenter traverse two of the island of Ireland’s most iconic coastal touring routes – the Causeway Coastal Route and Wild Atlantic Way. Ainsley Harriott will also be back on our screens in a third series of Ainsley’s Fantastic Flavours later this year, in which he’ll be joined by a host of special guests and familiar faces in the kitchen to celebrate global cuisines. Other new commissions include a second season of Fern Britton: Inside The Vet’s, in which Fern Britton will once again go behind the scenes of family-run practice The Grove Vets "to meet the dedicated veterinarians and share the emotional stories of the devoted owners of the hundreds of pets being treated there every week". Viewers can also look forward to a brand new series Clodagh: Cooking At Home, which will invite viewers into the chef’s idyllic home on her farm Broadspear. The show will see Clodagh McKenna “share the good times and slices of life at home, from parties to casual weekends, with a collection of simple and delicious recipes". The new line-up also includes Josie’s Taste of the Westcountry, which began airing on ITV1 on Sunday 19 April. The show sees proud Bristolian Josie Gibson take viewers on a tour of her beloved West Country and is described as a "journey of celebration; discovering dinner delights, freshly caught lunches, the best of passionate artisan makers and growers as well as a few hidden gems to surprise us all…" Assistant Commissioner, ITV Entertainment and Daytime, Leanne Clarke, said in a statement: “We can all wake up to something special - brilliant presenters, delicious inspiration and expertise, a morning lineup that’s a true weekend treat.” Dermot’s Taste of Ireland season 2 will air on ITV1 and ITVX at 12pm on Friday 2 May, 2026. Gary Barlow’s Food and Wine Tour: New Zealand will air on ITV1 and ITVX later in 2026. 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.
Iconic Casualty character to make shock return to medical drama 40 years after debut
The actor was the longest-serving cast member when he departed from the soap in 2024.
Casualty star Derek Thompson is set to make a surprise return to the soap two years after his exit. The actor, who played senior charge nurse Charlie Fairhead, was the longest-serving cast member when he departed from the BBC series in 2024, having joined the show when it first began in 1986. The character left Holby City ED after deciding to retire following an incident where his life was put in danger by a patient, who stabbed him while trying to steal medical supplies from the hospital. But two years on from Charlie's exit, it appears the character is returning to the wards, with reports claiming the star is already filming on set in Wales."Fans will be delighted to see Charlie," a source told The Sun. "The character was never killed off and the door was left open for a return. Viewers will have to wait to see how Charlie’s storyline pans out." Radio Times understands that Thompson’s role will be a temporary appearance rather than a permanent return. Thompson was involved in some huge storylines on Casualty over the years, including a will-they-won’t-they relationship with Duffy (Cathy Shipton) that spanned over 30 years. In recent years, the character also supported Duffy through her heartbreaking battle with vascular dementia ahead of her death. Addressing his exit in 2024 and speaking about which storylines stood out for him, Thompson said in a statement: "The one I felt most personally attached to as Charlie was the story of Duffy’s death through vascular dementia back in February 2020." Since departing from Casualty, Thompson has starred as retired police officer Robin Graham in Northern Irish police drama Blue Lights. Read more: Casualty confirms return date for "lethal" new 12-part storyline - and it's coming very soon Casualty boxset finale airs devastating death of Holby City doctor in early BBC iPlayer release Previous episodes of Casualty are available to stream on BBC iPlayer now. Casualty returns on Saturday 2 May at 8:45pm on BBC One and 6am on iPlayer. Add Casualty 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.
British TV favourite Nicola Walker's new comedy show wins big at major international festival
The show took home the top prize for best series, among other awards.
Disney+ series Alice and Steve, starring Nicola Walker, has won big at the Canneseries Awards 2026. The show from Baby Reindeer producer Clerkenwell Films took home three gongs: best series, special interpretation award for ensemble cast and student award. The series, which is set to premiere 8 June on Disney+ and Hulu, is created by former Sex Education writer Sophie Goodhart and follows Alice (Walker) after she discovers that her longtime best friend Steve (Jemaine Clement) has become romantically entangled with her daughter, Izzy (A Good Girl's Guide to Murder star Yali Topol Margalith). When a devastated Alice confronts Steve, it’s not long before their friendship devolves into an all-out feud. Disney has described the series as an "anti-romantic comedy" or even a "wrong-com" and recently gave fans a sneak peek at the (almost) three-decade age gap between Steve and Izzy in the form of first-look images. The awards were given out on Tuesday evening (28 April) at the Palais des Festival following a week of screening and industry events. Elsewhere, Florence Longpré’s Canadian show Empathie won the Europe 1 audience award, Finish sports drama Guts received best performance for star Roosa Söderholm, and Spain’s I Always Sometimes won best screenplay for writers Marta Bassols, Marta Loza and Almudena Monzú. Walker is famous for her roles in various hit shows including The Split, Spooks, Last Tango in Halifax, Unforgotten and Annika. Alongside Clement and Margalith, she's also joined by actor Joel Fry in the new series, who is best known for hit sitcoms W1A, Plebs and Our Flag Means Death. Alice and Steve will premiere on Disney+ and Hulu on 8 June 2026. Check out more of our Comedy coverage or 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.
House of the Dragon star Simon Russell Beale forced to drop out of Shakespeare run following cancer diagnosis
The actor has said it "broke his heart" having to end his stint as Titus Andronicus.
Sir Simon Russell Beale has revealed that colon cancer forced him to drop out of a production of Titus Andronicus. The actor, who plays Ser Simon Strong in the Game of Thrones spin-off House of the Dragon, withdrew from the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production two weeks before its run at the Hampstead Theatre in London back in September. It was revealed at the time that Beale - who had played the title role during the play’s run at the Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon from April to June 2025 - was ending his stint as the character due to "ill health", but no further reason was given. However, Beale has now revealed that he was rushed off to hospital after finishing work on House of the Dragon and was diagnosed with colon cancer soon after. During an event at The Delaunay restaurant in London this week, the actor explained (via The Times): "I've decided to tell everybody. It’s a really good production for those of you who didn’t see it, it’s a fantastic production, it really was." He continued: "I did the run [of Titus Andronicus] in Stratford, then House of the Dragon, and then had to be taken to hospital and they found that I had colon cancer. "So the last eight months have been, well it’s been a bit tricky actually, it’s a bore obviously, but it’s also tricky dropping out of things, which I’ve never done before". "It broke my heart dropping out of Titus because it was such a good show, but that’s why I didn't do it at Hampstead. At the moment I’m at that funny stage of thinking, do I dare risk it? I’ve decided to risk it, I’m starting again next week." The actor went on to reveal that he's set to narrate Greg Doran's staging of Shakespeare’s Venus and Adonis on its UK tour this summer. Alongside Beale as narrator, the production will incorporate a team of puppeteers and live musical accompaniment. View oEmbed on the source website Beale was replaced by fellow actor John Hodgkinson in the leading role after withdrawing from the production of Titus Andronicus back in September. A statement from the RSC and Hampstead Theatre at the time explained: "Unfortunately, due to ill health, Simon Russell Beale has had to step back from the RSC/Hampstead Theatre production of Titus Andronicus to give him time to recover. "The role of Titus Andronicus will now be played by John Hodgkinson, with performances commencing on September 15. "Simon Russell Beale wishes John and the company all the very best for the run." Alongside House of the Dragon, the actor is known for roles in films such as My Week with Marilyn, Mary Queen of Scots and The Death of Stalin. On stage, he has appeared in numerous Shakespearean productions including The Tempest, Much Ado About Nothing, Macbeth and Twelfth Night. If you’re looking for more to watch, check out our TV Guide and Streaming Guide.
James Gunn pauses movie plans for key DC film - but two TV series are still in the works
The film was announced in 2023 as part of Gunn's initial plan for the DCU.
James Gunn has revealed that TV series Booster Gold and Paradise Lost are still in the works, while also confirming that development on The Authority movie has been paused. The projects were announced back in January 2023, when Gunn and Peter Safran unveiled their initial plans for the new DCU across TV and film. In a series of posts on Threads on Monday (27 April), Gunn said Booster Gold is "in development", and that Paradise Lost is "in extreme development", which presumably means that the latter is further along. Gunn also revealed that The Authority has been shelved for now. "The script wasn't quite there but more importantly it didn't work in terms of the larger DCU both in terms of the story and practical concerns. Maybe some day. Not soon," he explained. The Authority was a series of comic books that launched in 1992 and followed a team of superheroes with extreme methods. Meanwhile, Booster Gold is being billed as a superhero comedy following the titular character, who is a time-travelling superhero. Paradise Lost is planned to be an origin story for the Amazons of Themyscira. Safran previously compared it to Game of Thrones, saying in a statement when the show was announced: "It’s going to be a Games of Thrones-ish story about Themyscira, the home of the Amazons and the birthplace of Wonder Woman. This drama is really about the political intrigue behind the society of all women. How did that come about?" Gunn added: "What’s the beautiful truths and the ugly truths behind all of that and what’s the scheming like between all the power players in that society?" Check out more of our Film 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.
Vera icon Brenda Blethyn's acclaimed film wins flurry of awards at international film festival
The film was released in cinemas last year.
Dragonfly, starring Vera icon Brenda Blethyn, has won big at the 16th Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF). The film from writer/director Paul Andrew Williams took home three awards during the closing ceremony on Saturday (25 April): best feature film, best screenplay, and best actress. In a rare move, the best actress trophy was split between the film’s two leading stars, Blethyn and Andrea Riseborough. Dragonfly, which was released in cinemas last November, follows 35-year-old Colleen (Riseborough) as she steps in to care for her 80-something-year-old neighbour Elsie (Blethyn) after witnessing her neglect by carers. However, their bond soon begins to unravel amid interference from Elsie’s son, who’s instantly suspicious of Coleen’s motives – in part due to his pre-existing biases. View oEmbed on the source website And it's this exploration of the characters' – and audiences' – judgements of people that initially drew Blethyn to the project. In an exclusive interview with Radio Times, she previously explained: "What I loved about the script as well is that you can't help but make judgments about all the different people in the film, and then question your own judgment." She continued: "I think everyone has a redeeming quality – or you could blame all of them for whatever reason – and it's just circumstance. The way at the end, where it kind of turns – [there's] this kind of shock coming from something so every day, so normal. I thought [it] was brilliant." Meanwhile, speaking about how she almost missed out on the chance to star in the film before reading the script, she said: "I didn't want to do it to start with. I told my agent to clear off – I'd only just finished Vera [and] hadn't even unpacked." However, her agent soon changed her mind. "She said, 'It's a Paul Andrew Williams script, and Andrea Riseborough is in it. I thought, 'Oh, well, obviously I'll have a little read.' And I was very moved by the script." She added: "I thought it was great. And so I said yes straight away. And it was imminent, [production was] about to start. So I had to make a decision on that same day!" Check out more of our Film 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.
Michael Jackson biopic smashes key box office record as critically derided film is fan success
Michael, the new Michael Jackson biopic, has smashed box office records in its first weekend of release after negative reviews from critics. The film, which stars Jackson’s real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson as the late musician, launched with $97 million domestically and $217 million globally in its opening weekend, breaking the box office record for a musical biopic. The record was previously held by Bohemian Rhapsody, which took a total of $124m in 2018. Michael also exceeded the $180m total taken by 2024's Oppenheimer, breaking the record for the highest-grossing biopic of any kind. Written by John Logan (Skyfall) and produced by Graham King (Bohemian Rhapsody), the film charts two decades of the singer’s four decade-long career, following his rise to fame through the Jackson 5 through to his solo career. The film has been mauled by critics, with several reviewers complaining that it depicts a sanitised version of Jackson’s life story and omits difficult subjects such as his sexual abuse allegations. Our own 2-star review criticised the film’s "over-simplified plot points and mawkish, underwritten scenes" – with critic Terry Staunton adding: "Producers and director Antoine Fuqua have hinted that a second film may yet be made to address the sexual abuse accusations and court appearances, but their absence here results in a curiously open-ended, unfulfilling cinema experience." View Green Video on the source website Jafaar is joined by a number of other stars, including Juliano Krue Valdi as young Michael, Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, Miles Teller as John Branca, Laura Harrier as Suzanne de Passe, and more. Read more: Brian Cox never thought he’d direct a film "in a million years" before Glenrothan James McAvoy on his earliest film memories and future directing hopes: 'I was offered a lot of working class Scottish dramas' Michael is out now in UK cinemas. Check out more of our Film 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.
Brookside legend Bryan Murray placed into assisted care following Alzheimer's diagnosis
The actor is also well-known for starring in the RTÉ soap opera Fair City.
Brookside star Bryan Murray has been placed into full-time care, his wife has revealed. The actor, who played Trevor Jordache on the soap, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2019 but continued to work on Irish soap Fair City until he retired last year. Speaking last month to mark the launch of the Alzheimer's Tea Day 2026, Murray's wife and former Fair City co-star Una Crawford O'Brien gave fans an update on his situation. She said: "Over the past year, Bryan's needs became far greater, and he has now moved into full-time care. Up until now I didn't have time to think. My day was completely focused on Bryan and his needs. Now I have time to miss him." This year's Alzheimer's Tea Day in Ireland takes place on Thursday 7 May, with O'Brien acting as the national host. You can find out more about how to get involved at the Alzheimer Society of Ireland's official website. "Myself and Bryan would really love you to join us," she said of the day. "You can take part in whatever way you want. You can host a huge tea party in your garden or simply put the kettle on and share a cuppa with friends. What matters most is that you are there. Please sign up today. It really is so important." Murray first joined Brookside as Trevor Jordache – the husband of Mandy Jordache, brother of Brenna Jordache, and father of Beth and Rachel Jordache – in 1993. The actor only appeared in the soap for three months, but his character – a violent and abusive murderer – soon became one of the show's most infamous villains. The actor is also well-known for playing Bob Charles in the RTÉ soap opera Fair City – a role he played for two decades before stepping back last year. Speaking on RTE Radio 1's Morning Ireland at the time of his retirement, Fair City's executive producer Brigie de Courcy said: "We are all very sad about this. Bryan has been an absolutely wonderful part of the team for the last 20 years, an integral part of the story and an absolute consummate professional." Speaking about how Murray had continued to work after his diagnosis, she added: "Initially we put all of his scripts onto a clipboard so he could read his scene and it was very efficient. "We ended up with a situation where he had a Bluetooth ear loop and we had a dialogue guide who would actually listen to him in rehearsal and pick up his intonations and his rhythms and then he would repeat it back to him on the floor and Bryan would then say the line." Murray’s other TV credits include Bread, Casualty, Holby City, The Bill, Silent Witness, and The Tudors. Watch O'Brien's appearance on Ireland AM last month below: View oEmbed on the source website
From favourite Harold Perrineau responds to claims it has been "cancelled" after 5 seasons
The show was renewed for a fifth and final season last week.
From star Harold Perrineau has responded to fan claims that the show has been "cancelled" after five seasons. The MGM+ horror series, which stars Perrineau as Sheriff Boyd Stevens and follows a group of people stuck in a nightmarish small town which is haunted by monsters at night, was renewed for a fifth and final season last week. But the news that the show – which is the most-viewed series in the history of the network – won't be continuing beyond season 5 soon sparked backlash from some fans online. One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter): "So @FROMonMGM is the highest rated show and they're cancelling it after S5? Hollywood has fallen, even great shows can't last. @HaroldPerrineau you and your generation are the last to rule Hollywood, just look at your Oz alumni @kirkacevedo. I grew up watching you guys. It's sad." Responding to the tweet, Perrineau wrote: "We want to bring the best version possible to the screen. 5 seasons does that for us." View oEmbed on the source website Speaking about the decision to end the series after its fifth season in a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, creator John Griffin made clear that a five-season arc had always been the aim for the series. "In full transparency, five seasons was always the goal, but we always wanted to let the story tell us when it was time to end," he said. He continued: "When we reached the end of season three and the death of Jim (Eion Bailey), it felt like we reached the end of the beginning. "Similarly, season 4 very naturally feels like the beginning of the end. We’ve had the opportunity to tell this story from the beginning the way we really wanted to tell it, with the full support of Michael Wright and everybody over at MGM. It’s rare you get to tell this type of story and give it the life you feel it needs, to let the story decide when it’s time to end." View Green Video on the source website From is available to stream on NOW in the UK and MGM+ in the US. Check out more of our Sci-Ficoverage or 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.
Enola Holmes 3 finally confirms release date with first look at Millie Bobby Brown's sequel
Netflix has revealed when fans can expect Enola Holmes 3 to be released, while also unveiling some first-look images. The upcoming film has been penned by Jack Thorne and will follow Millie Bobby Brown's Enola as she travels to Malta, where "personal and professional dreams collide in a case more tangled and treacherous than any she has faced before". It is set to be released globally on 1 July 2026. One of the new images shows Enola in what appears to be a wedding dress (above), while another shows the character in trouble in a burning building (below). In a third image (below), Sherlock Holmes (Henry Cavill) can be seen back in action, while a fourth (below) shows Dr John Watson (Himesh Patel) in conversation with Tewkesbury (Louis Partridge), and a fifth (below) depicts Sherlock’s mother Eudoria (Helena Bonham Carter) standing in a corridor. Brown said of the film: “What I love about this chapter is that Enola is stepping into a version of herself that feels much more defined but still evolving. She’s built something for herself, which is amazing, but she’s also questioning what she wants next, and I think that’s something so many people can relate to." She added: "Working with Louis has been such a huge part of what makes these films feel special. There’s a comfort and an ease between us now that you can’t really fake and it just comes from years of working together and supporting each other. "What’s been really nice is getting to explore a more mature version of Enola & Tewkesbury’s relationship. It’s not just playful anymore, it has real weight to it. We trust each other a lot, which means we can take more risks and really lean into the emotional side of their story." While plot details for the threequel remain scarce, Thorne previously teased a little more about what fans can expect while speaking with us exclusively for our video interview series The Radio Times Writers' Room. "I had some unfinished business with Enola Holmes, that I wanted to do in a totally different way, that told a different side of British society," he said. "I always thought of Enola Holmes as a sort of cheat, as a way of understanding 19th century British society." He continued: "The first film was about land reform and vote reform, the second film was about the birth of the unions, and the third film looks at our colonial history. And just trying to capture those different elements I find really exciting, but also trying to capture a Phil Barantini film, and also trying to capture what it is to write for Millie now." View Green Video on the source website Alongside the aforementioned cast, other returning players include Sharon Duncan-Brewster as the villainous Moriarty. Meanwhile, Philip Barantini, who’s best known for his work on Adolescence, is taking over as director. Enola Holmes 3 will be released on Netflix on 1 July 2026. Sign up for Netflix from £5.99 a month. Netflix is also available on Sky Glass and Virgin Media Stream. Add Enola Holmes 3 to your watchlist on the <a id="OWA8b702c45-bee9-94e4-f018-57518e78041b" class="x_OWAAutoLink" title="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" href="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-outlook-id="449c28d9-909e-4aab-b6b8-153454f55d5e" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Film coverage or 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.
Hazbin Hotel future finally confirmed - and it's both good and bad news for fans
The news has been announced ahead of an official release date for season 3.
In what’s sure to be bittersweet news for fans, Prime Video has renewed Hazbin Hotel for a fifth and final season. The adult animated musical comedy series, which is expected to release its third season this year, is created by Vivienne Medrano and follows Charlie Morningstar, the princess of Hell, as she opens the titular establishment where sinner demons are rehabilitated and saved from an annual purge. A release date for season 5 is yet to be announced. The renewal news was announced on Saturday (25 April) during a panel at LVL UP Expo in Las Vegas. Medrano serves as executive producer and has helmed all episodes, while Dana Tafoya-Cameron serves as executive producer. "I’m so thankful for how Prime Video has championed our vision at SpindleHorse, and I’m grateful for their partnership and commitment to bringing Hazbin Hotel to its epic conclusion," said Medrano in a statement. "I’m so excited for fans to see how this story ends." Melissa Wolfe, Head of Animation, Amazon MGM Studios, added: "From its inception, Hazbin Hotel has pushed the boundaries of adult animation through bold storytelling, vibrant artistry, and unapologetic heart." She continued: "Vivienne Medrano and her team have built an extraordinary world that has captivated fans around the globe, and we’re thrilled to give the series—and its passionate community—a fitting, unforgettable final chapter." Hazbin Hotel began life as a pilot on YouTube in 2019, where it quickly racked up over 120 million views and a global fanbase, before transforming into A24’s first adult animated series. Season 2 came to an end back in November, ending on a big cliffhanger and setting up the next instalment. Hazbin Hotel season 2 is available to stream on Prime Video – try Amazon Prime Video for free for 30 days. Add Hazbin Hotel to your watchlist on the <a id="OWA8b702c45-bee9-94e4-f018-57518e78041b" class="x_OWAAutoLink" title="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" href="https://www.radiotimes.com/download-the-app/?af_xp=custom&pid=website&c=editorial_content&is_retargeting=true&af_reengagement_window=30d" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-outlook-id="449c28d9-909e-4aab-b6b8-153454f55d5e" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">Radio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. Check out more of our Fantasy 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.
Adolescence and Celebrity Traitors lead the winners at BAFTA Television Craft Award 2026
Other big winners included Slow Horses, A Thousand Blows, Trespasses and The Last Musician of Auschwitz.
The winners of the BAFTA Television Craft Awards 2026 have been announced, with Adolescence and The Celebrity Traitors leading the way. Both shows received two wins each, with Adolescence winning the BAFTA for director: fiction for Philip Barantini and sound: fiction, while The Celebrity Traitors took home entertainment craft team and sound: factual. Meanwhile, Grenfell: Uncovered writer Olaide Sadiq and Just Act Normal writer Janice Okoh both won emerging talent awards, while Laurence Cawsey received director: multicamera for Super Sunday – Liverpool v Tottenham Hotspur. First-time BAFTA winners included Will Smith, who took home the BAFTA for writer: drama for Slow Horses, while Maja Meschede received costume design for A Thousand Blows. Other first-time winners included Ryan Kernaghan for Trespasses in photography & lighting: fiction, Philippa Mumford for Juice in production design, Rob Coldstream for Vietnam: The War That Changed America in director: factual, Jessica Dannheisser for The Last Musician of Auschwitz in original music: factual, and Tom Rowlands for Mussolini: Son of the Century in original music: fiction. Previous BAFTA winner Jack Rooke picked up the BAFTA for writer: comedy for Big Boys, while Simone Pennant MBE received a BAFTA television craft special award. Elsewhere, the team behind The Very Small Creatures won the BAFTA for children’s craft team, while the team behind the make-up and hair design for Amadeus won the BAFTA in that category. Scripted casting was won by the team behind Reunion. This year’s ceremony was hosted by comedian Maisie Adam at The Brewery in London. The Craft Awards precede the BAFTA TV Awards with P&O Cruises, which will be held on Sunday 10 May at London’s Royal Festival Hall. The ceremony will be hosted by Taskmaster presenter Greg Davies, and will be broadcast at 7pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. 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 Boys season 5 finale will be "heartbreaking", teases series favourite about show's ending
“I think the audience is going to be so immensely satisfied.”
The Boys star Erin Moriarty has heaped praise upon the hotly-anticipated season 5 finale, revealing that it’s her "favourite episode this season". The last episode of the show’s final season, which kicked off on Prime Video earlier this month, is set to be released on 20 May. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter about what fans can expect from the upcoming finale, Moriarty - who plays Annie January aka Starlight in the show - said: "It’s a heartbreaking episode. It’s not overtly cynical. When I read the finale as a script, it was my favourite episode this season, as it should be." She continued: "I think the audience is going to be so immensely satisfied by the finale. I never like to give a resolute prediction like that, and I never have, but I’m saying it now because I have so much excitement and confidence in it." While it’s become increasingly common for longer-running shows to end with super-sized finales, as was the case with the likes of Stranger Things and Peaky Blinders, The Boys' finale won't be extra-long. Asked whether the last episode will have a longer runtime in an interview with Collider, The Boys boss Eric Kripke responded: "It’s not. It’s like an hour and five. He added: "We’re not doing that huge, super-sized 90-minute thing. I don’t know if we would have had… I think the audience might have ended up getting bored had we gone that long. "But no, we’re like an hour five, an hour six max, I think? But yeah, they’re all jack-packed, these episodes." The Boys season 5 continues on Prime Video on 29 April 2026 – try Amazon Prime Video for free for 30 days. Plus, read our guides to the best Amazon Prime series and the best movies on Amazon Prime. Add The Boys 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 Sci-fi 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 caught in schedule shake-up tonight - here's details on when the next episodes will air
The soap won't be airing on ITV1 tonight.
Coronation Street has been pulled from ITV’s schedule tonight (Friday 24 April) amid the show’s dramatic ‘murder week’. The show is airing a special run of episodes this week, exploring five possible victims in a murder mystery plot. But tonight’s episode of the soap won’t be airing, with ITV1 making way for the final of I’m A Celebrity South Africa instead. Viewers will be pleased to know that the soap will be back in its usual slot on Monday. Thursday night’s episode of the soap saw the day of Carla and Lisa’s long-awaited wedding finally arrive. But the celebrations were soon cut short by the discovery of a dead body by Betsy Swain. The event was first teased in February in a flash-forward episode, which confirmed that one of Carl Webster, Jodie Ramsey, Megan Walsh, Maggie Driscoll and Theo Silverton were about to get their comeuppance in a death twist. Friday’s episode was set to reveal who’s met their grisly end, and who has blood on their hands but, with the instalment having been postponed, fans will have to wait a little longer to find out. Speaking about how the storyline came about, Corrie producer Kate Brooks previously explained: "The original idea for the flashforward came when I was at Euro Disney with the kids! I was getting five minutes of peace and quiet in the shower and was trying to think about how to make a whodunit feel different and fresh." She added: "I wanted to keep people interested from the get-go, rather than waiting until we found the murder victim. So I thought, what if we did a 'who is it?' What if we did a flashforward and got people hooked into the story before we revealed what the story actually was? I thought there was something in this." She continued: "The idea evolved through story conferences as we storylined and scripted it, but that was the original nugget. The other thing is that we were in a unique position, where we did have five very complex people in varying degrees of villainy. "We thought we could make a virtue of the fact that any one of them could be a potential suspect or victim. That was a unique position to be in, so we thought we'd make that the story point and explore that." Read more: 5 Coronation Street spoilers next week: Murder Week concludes with special, standalone episodes Coronation Street villain Theo Silverton threatens to kill again after Billy in early ITVX release Coronation Street airs major showdown between Theo Silverton and Carl Webster in early ITVX release Coronation Street airs surprise Summer Spellman scenes as she vows to protect Todd Grimshaw in early ITVX release Coronation Street airs weeknights at 8:30pm and from 7am on ITVX. Add Coronation Street to your watchlist on theRadio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more.
Motherland's Anna Maxwell Martin takes no prisoners in brutal first look at new drama Star City
The new thriller is coming to Apple TV next month.
Apple TV has unveiled a new trailer for its new Anna Maxwell Martin-starring alt-history thriller Star City. The sci-fi show, which is set to be released on the streamer on Friday 29 May, is a spin-off of For All Mankind and is once again set in an alternative timeline of the Soviets becoming the first nation to put a man on the moon. But Star City is taking a different approach, exploring the story from behind the Iron Curtain and following the lives of the cosmonauts, the engineers, and the intelligence officers navigating the risks surrounding the Soviet space program. The new tense trailer hints at plenty of twists, turns and danger and gives fans a first look at Martin in action as Lyudmilla Raskova, the head of KGB surveillance in Star City, as well as House of the Dragon's Rhys Ifans, who’s the Chief Designer for the project. You can watch the trailer for yourself below: View oEmbed on the source website Alongside Martin and Ifans, the series also stars Agnes O’Casey (Black Doves), Alice Englert (Bad Behaviour), Solly McLeod (House of the Dragon), Adam Nagaitis (Chernobyl), Ruby Ashbourne Serkis (I, Jack Wright), Josef Davies (Andor) and Priya Kansara (Bridgerton). It was announced last month that For All Mankind would be returning with a sixth and final season. Showrunners Matt Wolpert and Ben Nedivi, who co-created the series with Ronald D Moore, said in a statement: “Getting to explore the For All Mankind universe over six seasons has been an amazing privilege, and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to finish the story the way we’ve always hoped." They added: "We’re incredibly proud of what this series has become, and grateful to Apple TV and Sony Pictures Television for helping us see it through to its final chapter.” Star City will premiere on Apple TV+ on Friday 29 May. Add Star City to your watchlist on theRadio Times: What to Watch app – download now for daily TV recommendations, features and more. 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.