2025’s 25 best sci-fi and fantasy TV series - from Andor to Black Mirror
It's been a sensational year for sci-fi and fantasy. 2025 has seen old favourites return to screens with stellar new offerings, from Andor season 2, which saw Tony Gilroy completely blow audiences away with its beautifully crafted storytelling, to Alien: Earth, which brought new life to a 46-year-old franchise. But, amidst a sea of reboots, sequels and prequels, we were also treated to some very welcome original stories in the sci-fi and fantasy space, most notably from Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul creator Vince Gilligan, who casually stepped up and dropped one of the best shows of the year with his genre-bending series Pluribus. Plus, anime and animation are absolutely taking over the world, with Solo Leveling season 2 breaking records left, right and centre. Of course, there have been some tragedies, with The Wheel of Time being cancelled after its best season yet (no, we're not over it). But, for the most part, TV has been dominated this year by sci-fi and fantasy releases that shine a light on our society and make us want to be better - and if that isn't the energy we need to be taking into 2026, then truly, what is? It's time to look back on the TV that made us laugh, cry, and dream this year. Here are our top 25 sci-fi and fantasy series of 2025! 25. From season 3 Where to watch: MGM+ (available via Prime Video in the UK) The audience for this hidden gem on MGM+ has grown massively each season - and for good reason. Lost star Harold Perrineau leads the cast as Sheriff Boyd Stevens in the mystery sci-fi, which is aptly very reminiscent of the ABC series. From follows a group of people who get trapped in a nightmarish town. As they try to stay alive, the residents of "Fromville" are faced with terrifying creatures who seem to want to kill them at every turn. In its third season, the series has become increasingly bizarre, with the introduction of The Man in Yellow - but it's impossible to look away - Louise Griffin. 24. Doctor Who season 15 Where to watch: BBC iPlayer While the latest season may have been overshadowed by discussions about the BBC's deal with Disney, there was no faulting the performances in Doctor Who season 15. The latest instalment saw Ncuti Gatwa return as the Fifteenth Doctor alongside companion Varada Sethu for adventures in 1950s America, a planet 500,000 in the future, 2019 Lagos, and even a futuristic version of the Eurovision Song Contest. Thankfully, we got a little bit more from Millie Gibson's Ruby Sunday after her slightly abrupt departure in the last season, but the main surprise came from the last episode, which saw Gatwa's Doctor regenerate into none other than returning star Billie Piper. What does it all mean? You'll have to wait until Christmas 2026 to find out! - Louise Griffin 23. Peacemaker season 2 Where to watch: Sky/NOW Chris Smith, aka Peacemaker, is one of the stranger superheroes – a violent killer with a silver helmet and no superpowers, who has an eagle for a best friend. Despite those setbacks, in the first series of his eponymous TV show he still managed to save the world from alien invasion. Surely now he’ll be taken seriously? No such luck. He might have turned over a new leaf, but the establishment capes can’t overlook his past. So when he discovers a portal to another world – one where he’s a beloved, successful hero – he can’t resist stepping through. In other hands it could be daft, crude television, but series lead (and former wrestler) John Cena sells Peacemaker’s turmoil with a surprisingly understated performance - Huw Fullerton 22. Hazbin Hotel season 2 Where to watch: Prime Video Set in hell’s Pentagram City, Hazbin Hotel follows Charlie Morningstar and her desperate attempt to prove that sinners can be redeemed. Initially easy to dismiss as just another adult animation, Hazbin Hotel has surprised its critics by having depth beyond its crude language and innuendos. Using hell as a backdrop for dark comedy is nothing innovative, yet Hazbin Hotel flips the script and turns its setting into a vibrant tapestry of emotional depth, laughter, and extravagant musical numbers. Its energy is palpable, as too is its colourful cast of characters. What would have been restricted as a live-action show is boundless as an animation, able to express multifaceted concepts of morality and redemption without limitations. Combined with the star power of names such as Keith David and Stephanie Beatriz, Vivienne Medrano’s creation has exceeded expectations and promises to maintain its momentum until the end - Em Flint. 21. Ironheart Where to watch: Disney+ Ironheart is an unfairly overlooked gem in the Marvel Cinematic Universe; if it passed you by over the summer, endeavour to catch up at the soonest opportunity. The series was largely a victim of its botched rollout; first, spending almost three years in post-production, and then being dropped with little fanfare over just a fortnight on Disney Plus. It’s as if the streamer had resigned itself to another Secret Invasion-style critical disaster, but what they had in Ironheart was quite the opposite: one of their best Marvel shows to date. Dominique Thorne returns as Wakanda Forever’s Riri Williams, who is dragged back to her Chicago hometown, where she quickly becomes entangled with a dangerous gang of super criminals. Series creator Chinaka Hodge proceeds to deliver a story with a strong emotional hook and plenty of suspense as the MCU’s magic and tech-based corners dramatically collide. In terms of world-building, Ironheart also boasts a compelling new villain in The Hood (played by Anthony Ramos), plus a long-demanded character in a brief-yet-impactful cameo. – David Craig 20. Murderbot Where to watch: Apple TV A sci-fi comedy that looks to tap into our fears about AI stars Alexander Skarsgard as the titular "Murderbot" — not that anyone else knows this is its name. The android has given itself a new moniker having hacked its programming to achieve autonomy. Now, bursting with free will and only pretending to be bound by its owners’ instructions, it is part of a survey team scoping out alien planets. Everyone else is a fallible, emotional human, whereas Murderbot has the face and skin of a human but is a powerful, self-interested machine underneath. The show takes this idea and uses it for what you might call "voiceover comedy": the main character is deceiving everyone, and we get to hear its thoughts via Skarsgard’s narration - Jack Seale. 19. Gen V season 2 Where to watch: Prime Video The Boys – which imagines a world where superheroes are real, but as venal and selfish as any Hollywood bigshot – will soon conclude with its eagerly awaited fifth season. But before that, it was time for a return to the campus of Gen V, where the next generation of "supes" are trained in their powers, moulded and indoctrinated, while also engaging in the usual drinking, partying and dating of US college life. Marie Moreau (Jaz Sinclair) and her friends escape the creepy lab of the last series and investigate a new conspiracy. Expect the usual lashings of blood, sex and violence, with even more crossover with The Boys - Huw Fullerton 18. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 3 Where to watch: Paramount+ From messing around with the Star Trek canon to giving us fairytale episodes and murder mystery episodes, Strange New Worlds season 3 didn't hold back - and it was all the better for it. The prequel spin-off follows the crew of the starship Enterprise on their five-year mission to explore (you guessed it) strange new worlds during the decade before The Original Series. It might not be everyone's cup of tea, and only looks to get weirder in future seasons, as we await season 4's puppet episode (yep, really). But you'll find yourself genuinely intrigued by this loveable band of misfits and all their personal dramas - and it's a welcome reminder that sci-fi can and should be just a bit silly - Louise Griffin 17. Paradise Where to watch: Disney+ Initially marketed as no more than a gritty thriller with the murder of a President at its core, Paradise is a wonderful Trojan horse of a series. The series proved why some of the best TV plot details should be kept as a secret and while underground bunkers and towns aren’t a new sci-fi device by any means, Paradise weaves in an action-packed Washington-related element that only notches up the tension. Pair that with Sterling K Brown in yet another flawless turn, equally excellent performances from Julianne Nicholson and James Marsden, and twists that will leave you reeling – well, you’ve got yourself a mind-bending series with a lot of heart that practically begs to be binge-watched - Morgan Cormack. 16. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man Where to watch: Disney+ Spider-Man’s origins as ordinary kid Peter Parker are explored from a new angle – there’s an important change to the story – as this cartoon series uses a retro animation style to evoke the original comic books. Hudson Thames provides the voice of Peter, a friendly geek who is about to become a vigilante. There’s more about his high-school life than in some versions of the tale, but he’s soon slinging webs and foiling muggers - Jack Seale. 15. Devil May Cry Where to watch: Netflix Based on Capcom’s popular action-adventure game franchise of the same name, this new animated series introduces viewers to Dante, a handsome and witty but troubled demon hunter. Dante, voiced by Johnny Yong Bosch, might be humanity’s only hope against the mysterious White Rabbit (Hoon Lee), who wishes to summon fearsome demons from a terrible other realm. The retro anime-style visuals and a slight emo vibe help give the show its unique texture - Jack Seale 14. Wednesday season 2 Where to watch: Netflix Even in a school of outcasts, Wednesday Addams (Jenna Ortega) remains a determined outsider, so the last thing she’d want to be is beloved. Yet following the launch of season one of this delightfully offbeat gothic drama back in November 2022, that’s what she became. Her dance moves were imitated, those fashion choices scrutinised, her stubbornness celebrated. So, it’s interesting to see season 2 opting to imitate life, with Wednesday, having saved Nevermore Academy the previous term, seen here returning as the idol of many. Refreshingly, hero worship hasn’t weakened her resolve: Wednesday is still the thunderclap to friend Enid Sinclair’s (Emma Myers) rainbow. What has changed, though, is the line-up of adults in her orbit, most of whom she naturally barely tolerates. There’s Billie Piper as the enigmatic new head of music Isadora Capri, Steve Buscemi as wheedling principal Barry Dort, and Joanna Lumley as Wednesday’s Grandmama Frump. And the fact that Catherine Zeta-Jones is also on screen more as saturnine matriarch Morticia means that the spiky dynamics of the Addams family females are spotlighted almost as much as the now-obligatory mystery, which, this time, finds Wednesday pursuing a cloaked stalker - David Brown 13. Foundation season 3 Where to watch: Apple TV This is TV's most impressive space opera, a grand sweep of a show that manages to take its central story seriously while peppering its scenes with nuggets of dark wit. The crux of it is that a mathematician, Hari Seldon (Jared Harris), has perfected a technique that predicts the future of the despotic Empire, which used to run every planet in sight but now shares power with Seldon's Foundation. We're now a century-and-a-half on from the previous season, with another Seldon-anticipated "crisis": the harbinger of it is powerful warlord The Mule, previously only glimpsed in dreamlike cutaways but now given full rein in an awesome opening scene. Fans of classic Scandi drama will be amused to see the role recast, with Mikael Persbrandt from Beck giving way to Pilou Asbaek from Borgen. Anyway, we're soon having the usual weighty discussions and brittle arguments in beautiful locations, as smug clone emperor Brother Day (Lee Pace) ignores the impending apocalypse and concentrates on his new hobby: he's got a pet camel - Jack Seale. 12. Daredevil: Born Again Where to watch: Disney+ Once on Netflix but now residing in the home of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Disney+, it’s taken blind lawyer/vigilante Matt Murdock/ Daredevil a while to make his comeback. But one of the stronger Marvel TV franchises can welcome back Vincent D’Onofrio as slippery mayor Kingpin, as well as Jon Bernthal as the bone-crunching Punisher. To reprise the lead role, Charlie Cox has trained as an MMA fighter, and the fight sequences have a malevolent crunch - Jack Seale. 11. Invincible season 3 Where to watch: Prime Video Season three of an animated superhero series returned with its signature retro visual style, a good line in dry humour and a stellar voice cast: listen out for JK Simmons, Sandra Oh, Walton Goggins, Seth Rogen, Mark Hamill and Andrew Rannells supporting Steven Yuen as the voice of 19-year-old Mark, a superhero in training who is still coming to terms with his mission to save the world. The crash-bang action is artfully offset by some sly jokes about what it’s like to be, or to raise, a teenager - Jack Seale. 10. Severance season 2 Where to watch: Apple TV A high-concept drama, but one that is still hanging together as it returned for a long-awaited second season. Adam Scott is Mark, an employee of a mysterious company that puts its staff through a procedure, the result of which is that in the office they remember nothing about their lives outside, and vice versa. But now that divide has fractured, Mark and his colleagues are closer to sniffing out a grand conspiracy. Smart writing and Ben Stiller’s angular, innovative direction keeps you forever on your toes - Jack Seale 9. Stranger Things season 5 <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/07/StrangerThingsS50011-4747587-e1763381660267.jpg" width="4480" height="2990" alt="Finn Wolfhard as Mike Wheeler, Caleb McLaughlin as Lucas Sinclair, Natalia Dyer as Nancy Wheeler, Joe Keery as Steve Harrington, Charlie Heaton as Jonathan Byers, and Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin Henderson in Stranger Things season 5" title="Finn Wolfhard as Mike Wheeler, Caleb McLaughlin as Lucas Sinclair, Natalia Dyer as Nancy Wheeler, Joe Keery as Steve Harrington, Charlie Heaton as Jonathan Byers, and Gaten Matarazzo as Dustin Henderson in Stranger Things season 5" /> Where to watch: Netflix After nine years, the fantasy phenomenon enters its endgame, releasing four episodes in November before the final entries drop on Netflix between Christmas and New Year. Stranger Things is such a huge hit, with so many die-hard fans, it’s hard to imagine how they’ll wrap up all the plot threads while also creating a satisfying conclusion. These opening episodes have to do a lot of set-up before they get to the "horror in 1980s suburbia" sequences the show does best. We open back in Hawkins, Indiana in 1987, just four years after young Will Byers introduced the town to the creepy Upside Down world that exists on a parallel plane of existence. With psychic baddie Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower) still out there, it’s down to Hawkins’ finest – including telekinetic teen Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) – to track him down. Assuming he doesn’t track them down first - Huw Fullerton 8. Solo Leveling season 2 Where to watch: Crunchyroll Two seasons in, Solo Leveling's protagonist has leveled up exponentially, and the same is also true of the show itself. Sung Jinwoo's quest to become the world's strongest hunter has taken anime by storm, sweeping the Crunchyroll Anime Awards this year thanks to its relentless action and thrilling lore, all served up in a gorgeously animated package. Did we mention it's currently the most-viewed anime of all time on Crunchyroll? Love it or hate it, Solo Leveling has become a touchstone for the next generation of anime fans, much like Demon Slayer and Attack on Titan before it. And with Netflix's upcoming live-action remake on the way, not to mention an all-but guaranteed third season, Solo Leveling could even level up and surpass them. - David Opie 7. Black Mirror season 7 Where to watch: Netflix The latest run of Charlie Brooker’s digital dystopia opens with a real gut-punch of an episode, penned by Brooker himself. Rashida Jones and Chris O’Dowd are an ordinary, loving couple, apparently in the normal present day, until a sudden crisis leads to them experimenting with a revolutionary new health product... What seems initially like a regular Black Mirror story ticking off modern malaises (digital subscription services, intrusive adverts and online content that demeans both the creator and the viewer are all dealt with) steadily becomes something much more serious and sad; devastatingly so as the story moves towards a horrible, logical conclusion. As for the rest of the season? There's something very odd about a new employee at a chocolate company, an AI love story, a system that allows people to step into photographic memories of the past, and a treat for fans as the crew of USS Callister returns - Jack Seale 6. The Wheel of Time season 3 Where to watch: Prime Video In one of the biggest TV tragedies of 2025, The Wheel of Time was cancelled swiftly after its best season to date. Based on the sprawling fantasy novels by Robert Jordan, the Prime Video series faced reasonable criticism from fans following its first two instalments, before finally hitting its stride in season three with Rand Al'Thor's (Josha Stradowski) journey to the Aiel Waste to prove himself as the Car'a'carn. A gripping story, stunning performances from the lead cast, who also included the show's champion Rosamund Pike as Moiraine Damodred, and beautiful visuals weren't enough to save the show – but that doesn't mean fans have given up, with a petition to bring it back securing more than 250,000 signatures - Louise Griffin. 5. It: Welcome to Derry Where to watch: Sky/NOW Capitalising on the recent trend for TV adaptations of classic horror franchises, this is an imaginative, and suitably scary, addition to the Stephen King lore. This version has been developed by brother-and-sister duo Andy and Barbara Muschietti, who were behind 2017’s It and 2019’s It Chapter Two, and Jason Fuchs. Taking place in the early 1960s, prior to the timeframe of those films, it transports us back to Derry, Maine. When a boy goes missing, his group of friends, played by a brilliant young cast, investigate, but the evil clown Pennywise (Bill Skarsgård reprises his role and executive-produces) soon taps into their worst nightmares. The opening episode does not go where you think it will at all – proving there are still plenty of new shocks to be had within a story you thought you knew - Laura Rutkowski 4. The Last of Us season 2 Where to watch: Sky/NOW "Based on a video game" flashing up at the start of a TV show doesn’t usually inspire much confidence, but The Last of Us is a definite exception to that rule. When the first series was released in 2023, the story – which saw a grizzled smuggler transporting a teen across a post-apocalyptic America – struck a chord with viewers, as did the terrifying, fungus-infected zombies they faced along the way. This year, the series returned for a second run, picking up five years after we left our heroes Joel and Ellie (Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey). After Joel sabotaged a cure for the "cordyceps" plague to save Ellie’s life, they’ve settled down in a surviving small town for a simpler life. But a sense of dread pervades – both human and infected forces are headed their way to shatter this fragile peace, and Joel and Ellie are at odds. It’s a credit to the performances that in a world of mushroom zombies, it’s the human relationships that hold your attention - Huw Fullerton 3. Alien: Earth Where to watch: Disney+ It’s 2120, and just two years before the events of 1979 film Alien, in creator Noah Lawley’s (Fargo, Legion) prequel series. It disregards the events of Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, and takes place mainly on Earth, which is ruled by five large corporations. It is a place where cyborgs (humans with biological and artificial parts) and synthetics (humanoid robots with artificial intelligence) live among humans. When the genius and CEO of Prodigy Corporation, Boy Kavalier (Samuel Blenkin), launches hybrids (humanoid robots in adult bodies with human consciousness taken from terminally ill children), the intelligence race is well and truly on for ultimate dominance. Deep space research vessel USCSS Maginot, operated by the Weyland-Yutani corporation, crashes on Earth, bringing with it five alien species, including the Xenomorph. Seeing it in its crowd-pleasing, hissing glory is worth the watch alone. Wendy (Sydney Chandler) and her fellow hybrids investigate the crash site, driven by the need to find her brother, a medic called Hermit (Alex Lawther)… Laura Rutkowski 2. Pluribus Where to watch: Apple TV Years after blessing us with Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, TV titan Vince Gilligan returned with his new genre-bending offering, Pluribus - and, by George, he's done it again! Starring Better Call Saul's Rhea Seehorn, the sci-fi mystery kept viewers guessing even before it premiered, with Apple TV's puzzling marketing. Then, we were pulled into the world of Seehorn's Carol, a reluctant hero who has to save the world from the most bizarre alien invasion of all time by herself, with just her flip chart and a bad attitude. Oh, and a grenade dutifully delivered to her by her captors. With underlying messages about love and loss, about humanity and loneliness, about AI and technology, and what it means to be an individual in this increasingly confusing world, Pluribus is exactly what the doctor ordered - Louise Griffin 1. Andor season 2 Where to watch: Disney+ When it arrived in 2022, there were low expectations for this Star Wars series, a prequel to a spin-off (2016’s movie Rogue One) based on a relatively minor character. But this spy-v-spy thriller version of a galaxy far, far away quickly won viewers over. Season 2 only upped the ante as we followed rebel agent Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), working for the nascent Rebellion while the fascist Empire tried to crush dissent. Season two kicks off with Andor’s mission to steal an experimental spaceship going catastrophically wrong, while spymaster Luthen Rael (Stellan Skarsgard) and politician Mon Mothma (Genevieve O’Reilly) cross paths at a wedding and make a ruthless decision. Despite the Star Wars sheen, this is grown-up, smart storytelling with plenty of real-world parallels — and not a lightsaber in sight - Huw Fullerton Add these shows 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 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.
2025’s 25 best drama series - from Slow Horses to Adolescence
It's been a stellar year for drama... but which series has topped Radio Times' list?
Another year, another reminder that television drama remains one of the most powerful ways to interrogate the world around us. From true stories that forced public reckonings, to genre pieces that smuggled big ideas inside gripping entertainment, 2025 delivered an extraordinary range of series that demanded our attention – and, in many cases, lingered long after the credits rolled. What links the shows in this list isn’t just quality (though there’s plenty of that), but ambition. These dramas took risks: formally, politically and emotionally. They revisited painful chapters of history, confronted contemporary anxieties head-on and reimagined familiar formats with renewed urgency. Whether set in war-torn streets, glossy boardrooms or claustrophobic police interview rooms, they asked big questions about power, justice, identity and responsibility. Below, our team of expert critics count down the 25 dramas that stood out above the rest – series that sparked conversation, provoked outrage, offered comfort or simply reminded us why great television still matters. From slow-burn thrillers to all-too-urgent true stories, this is Radio Times’ definitive ranking of the year’s must-watch drama. 25. Suspect: The Shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes Where to watch: Disney+ Electrician Jean Charles de Menezes was making his way to work in the wake of the 7/7 terrorist attacks when he was shot and killed by Metropolitan Police officers. The catalogue of failings that led up to the events of 22 July 2005 (covered brilliantly by BBC Two documentary 7/7: the London Bombings, still available on iPlayer) is dramatised in this unflinching four-part drama, including the actions of key figures Ian Blair (Conleth Hill), Brian Paddick (Russell Tovey) and Cressida Dick (Emily Mortimer). It’s startling how quickly fiction became fact following the tragedy and how – 20 years on – many inaccuracies still percolate. Hopefully, this drama has gone some way to definitively righting those wrongs. – Frances Taylor 24. Trespasses <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/11/unnamed-file-ca2eeaf.jpg" width="5938" height="3959" alt="A man in a dark suit gently kisses the forehead of a woman wearing an off-the-shoulder white dress with pink trim. She holds a brown clutch and leans slightly toward him with a small smile. They are standing in a warmly lit room with wood paneling and abstract artwork on the wall behind them, creating an intimate and tender atmosphere." title="Trespasses" /> Where to watch: Channel 4 When young primary schoolteacher Cushla (Lola Petticrew) meets charismatic but married barrister Michael (Tom Cullen), they’re instantly attracted. But she’s Catholic, he’s Protestant and this is Northern Ireland in 1975. From the start this love affair is doomed. Adapted from Louise Kennedy’s novel, Trespasses portrays the unbearable stress of living under intense divisions with an ever-present threat of violent retribution. With strong support from Gillian Anderson as Cushla’s drunken, flinty mother and Martin McCann as her brother, it packs a heck of a dramatic punch. – Jane Rackham 23. Smoke Where to watch: Apple TV This drama based on real events is a – forgive us – slow burn, since the revelation at the close of episode two turns the humdrum detective drama on its head. Taron Egerton and Dennis Lehane (the star and creator of the excellent Black Bird) reunite here with Egerton as Dave Gudsen, an arson investigator hunting down serial fire-setters in the Pacific North West. With Jurnee Smollett and Rafe Spall as Gudsen’s reluctant co-investigators, a darkly twisting, handsomely filmed drama keeps finding new ways for its imperfect characters to surprise us. – Jacke Seale 22. Bookish Where to watch: NOW The aftermath of the Second World War is a high time for lovers of crime, as morals often seem as grey as the rubble-strewn streets. Amid scarcity come those seeking to profit, and down these roads of supposed peace walk people, considered to be heroes, who are harbouring secrets from their years spent in conflict. Into this morally murky world comes the likeable Gabriel Book (Mark Gatiss), who very much embodies a sense of duality. He’s a London bookshop owner with a sideline in sleuthing, and a married man (Polly Walker plays his wife Trottie) who’s gay at a time when homosexuality was illegal. This last detail is a smart touch, allowing a subtle, poignant exploration of his private life. – David Brown 21. Hacks Where to watch: NOW This may be the funniest comedy you’ve never heard of. Hacks has won Emmys, Golden Globes and many fans, but still goes unnoticed on this side of the pond. Jean Smart is sublime as Deborah Vance – a stand-up comedian whose star was on the wane until she was paired with young writer Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder). The end of season three saw Deborah finally having achieved her ambition of hosting a late-night chat show. Ava’s career is also soaring, having secured the position of head writer on the show. So, what could possibly go wrong in season four? Well, quite a lot – given Ava’s trying to play Deborah at her own wily game. A game Deborah has been playing for 50 years, and never loses. – Frances Taylor 20. Reacher Where to watch: Prime Video Another belting season of the thriller based on Lee Child’s novels. As ex-military police officer Jack Reacher (Alan Ritchson) infiltrates a criminal organisation, his exploits include a swim through raging surf, an assassination using office equipment and a punch-up with a henchman who is even bigger than Reacher. It’s the usual satisfying action, punctuated with superb one-liners and a dash of romance: this year, with DEA agent Susan Duffy, played with some finesse by British actor Sonya Cassidy. – Jack Seale 19. Nine Bodies in a Mexican Morgue Where to watch: BBC iPlayer Lost meets And Then There Were None in this crime drama from Anthony Horowitz, an undoubted master of his craft. Here, he crashes a plane in the Mexican jungle and starts to pick off the survivors, dispatching them at the hands of a killer who could well be one of the passengers. It’s a traditional murder mystery set-up that, if written by Agatha Christie, would be crammed with cut-glass accents and Art Deco glamour. But in setting his story in such a grimy, hostile environment, it feels as though Horowitz is reminding viewers that, despite whodunnits essentially being one big guessing game, murder itself shouldn’t always be presented so palatably. – David Brown 18. Your Friends and Neighbours Where to watch: Apple TV A perfectly cast Jon Hamm is the anti-hero of an entertaining comedy drama that begins with thrusting, hunky finance guy “Coop” (Hamm) losing his wife, job and status, but still trying to keep up appearances with his super-rich pals in upstate New York. He needs money and secretly hates his friends… so he starts burgling their mansions, stealing expensive trinkets they won’t miss. Mainly a satire on the vulgarity of people who have more money than they can spend, the show never quite hates its characters, who are all more damaged than they first appear – but the outrageous intrigue keeps on coming. – Jack Seale 17. Untamed Where to watch: Netflix Eric Bana is ostensibly the lead star of this hit mystery thriller, but special agent Kyle Turner would be diminished were he to be deprived of his backdrop, as the vastness of Yosemite National Park also makes for an impressive key player in events. This expansive patch in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains may be a familiar sight to Turner, but there’s a sense throughout this easy-on-the-eye whodunnit that, no matter how hard he tries to enforce the law, those surroundings will remain both wild and brutish – which doesn’t bode well when there’s a murder case to unpick. – David Brown 16. Unforgivable Where to watch: BBC iPlayer The formidable Jimmy McGovern has tackled many difficult social issues in his work. This time it’s about the devastating aftermath of sex abuse perpetrated on a 12-year-old boy by his uncle. There’s shocking scenes of painful conversations and depictions of self-hatred, disgust and despair as a powerful cast – Bobby Schofield, Anna Friel and Anna Maxwell-Martin giving realistic performances – struggle to process what happened. But it also asks us to think deeply about the subject and question whether the abuser, who refers to himself as “a piece of s**t”, deserves any form of forgiveness. – Jane Rackham 15. House of Guinness Where to watch: Netflix Peaky Blinders, A Thousand Blows, This Town… and now Steven Knight does it again with this gritty saga about the Irish brewing dynasty. It has everything: a cracking cast (James Norton, Louis Partridge), darkly lit cinematography, a good storyline that’s as compulsive as Succession and a steampunk soundtrack that’ll knock your socks off. We are in Dublin in 1868 where the head of the unbelievably wealthy Guinness family has just died, leaving his four children to fight over their inheritance, with the help of the ruthless brewery foreman (Norton) who oozes sex appeal alongside inherent violence. – Jane Rackham 14. The Newsreader Where to watch: BBC iPlayer When it comes to depicting the thrill of fame and its accompanying anxieties, few dramas do it better than this high-quality Australian export. It has remained frustratingly under the radar over the course of its three-series run, but do seek it out, for while its setting in Australian commercial newsrooms of the 1980s may seem far removed from the lived experience of many, all human frailties are here. This final run sees the self-worth of News at Six anchorman Dale Jennings (Sam Reid) hit the floor, thanks to damning audience feedback. With his boss Lindsay exhibiting a sadistic dereliction in his duty of care, it’s left to fellow host Helen Norville (Anna Torv) to come to the aid of her TV rival. – David Brown 13. Squid Game (Netflix) Where to watch: Netflix After an odd second season that replaced the deadly children’s games with a mass shoot-out, the Korean megahit – about a secret contest that gradually eliminates its players until only one remains, and by “eliminate” we really mean they die – returns to basics for its third and final run. Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) is once again trying to win a colossal cash prize, while subverting the game from the inside in the hope of destroying it. Throw in the curveball of one of the other contestants being heavily pregnant and you have a swansong that successfully refreshes the formula, persistently outflanking viewers who think they know what’s coming – before delivering a final shot that you’ll be thinking about for a while afterwards. – Jack Seale 12. The Bear Where to watch: Disney+ Having been hyped, lauded and pilloried depending on whether that year’s episodes were stunningly brilliant or merely very good, Christopher Storer’s intense drama triumphs anew in its fourth season, mainly because these episodes are less intense and less about the startup Chicago restaurant. Yes it’s still set in The Bear, a high-end eaterie struggling to flourish and run by chef Carmy (Jeremy Allen White), but this new Bear is driven more by emotion than such fripperies as whether a filet mignon will arrive at a table on time. Storer has created an extended family of characters who care about each other deeply – and, more than ever, we feel the same. – Jack Seale 11. This City Is Ours Where to watch: BBC iPlayer If you initially gave an episode or two of this drama a go but decided not to stick with it, I wouldn’t have blamed you. It was easy to write off as slightly throwaway gangland fare (a “Scouse Sopranos” was the reductive phrase bandied about) but persevere and you’re rewarded with a knotty patchwork of flawed antiheroes. Oh, and a fun dance routine (who didn’t try and re-create The House of Bamboo in their kitchen?). Sean Bean and Julie Graham star as the heads of the Phelan family and their organised crime ring. But it’s James Nelson-Joyce as Michael who shines brightest (the actor’s star rose and rose this year), as he grapples with his murky past – and present – while trying to make a better life for himself and partner Diana (Hannah Onslow). – Frances Taylor 10. Code of Silence Where to watch: ITVX Police canteen worker Alison (Rose Ayling-Ellis) is asked by the CID to use her lip-reading skills to decipher surveillance conversations of a gang plotting a high-stakes heist. But, although Alison is smart, she becomes so embroiled in the investigation she puts herself at risk. Catherine Moulton’s ground-breaking script depicts the thoughtless attitude of others towards deaf people, while partial subtitles, that gradually start to make sense as Alison pieces the sentences together, help us understand the daily challenges faced by the deaf community. A crime story with an edifying aspect, told by a strong cast that also includes Andrew Buchan. – Jane Rackham 9. Death Valley Where to watch: BBC iPlayer Comfort-blanket TV of a high quality, thanks to its casting of Timothy Spall as John Chapel, a retired actor and one-time television detective, now living as a kind of reclusive Droopy in Wales. Keen to utilise his observation skills is DS Janie Mallowan (Gwyneth Keyworth) who, following a shooting, leans into her line in droll self-deprecation to draw him out of his shell. John, however, sees himself as slumming it while in her company, as though a classically trained actor solving mysteries with the police is equivalent to an Olympic athlete running in an egg-and-spoon race. – David Brown 8. Prisoner 951 Where to watch: BBC iPlayer The true story of how Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe was returning to Britain after visiting her parents in Iran with her young daughter when the Revolutionary Guard detained her at the airport. No reason was given, although it was suggested that she was a spy. In fact, Nazanin was being held to force Britain to pay Iran a decades-old debt. It would be six years before her family was reunited. This drama brilliantly evokes the fear, helplessness and frustration felt by Nazanin (Narges Rashidi) and her British husband Richard (Joseph Fiennes) as she was kept in solitary confinement, and then moved, blindfolded, from one prison to another while, back in Britain, he campaigned for her release. It’s an inhumane, immoral and very harrowing story. – Jane Rackham 7. Dept Q Where to watch: Netflix In the perfect marriage of actor and character, Matthew Goode stars as a gifted police detective with a biting wit and buried trauma, who operates out of a dank Edinburgh basement alongside a ragtag bunch of colleagues. Tasked with investigating cold cases, Goode’s DCI Carl Morck soon finds himself allied with Syrian-born civilian employee Akram Salim (a scene-stealing Alexej Manvelov) and eager-to-please DC Rose Dickson (Leah Byrne), as they probe the disappearance of an ambitious prosecutor. The series channels the same underdogs-against-the-system vibe of Slow Horses, but adds some flavoursome gothic flourishes of its own. – David Brown 6. Down Cemetery Road Where to watch: Apple TV A drama led by Emma Thompson and Ruth Wilson, based on the debut novel by Slow Horses creator Mick Herron? No prizes for guessing that this would be excellent. A mysterious explosion near the Oxford home of art restorer Sarah (Wilson) brings her into the orbit of jaded private investigator Zoë (Thompson). Once it’s clear they’ve stumbled upon a dangerous government conspiracy, they need to improvise furiously, and maybe even bond a little, to survive. Witty, ambitious and bursting with hilarious or terrifying supporting characters, this is simply a treat. – Jack Seale 5. A Thousand Blows Where to watch: Disney+ Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight once again draws on the exploits of a real-life criminal gang. This time it’s a late Victorian all-female pickpocket crew led by fierce Mary Carr (Erin Doherty). When she meets Jamaican immigrant Hezekiah Moscow (Malachi Kirby) and gets him to take up bare-knuckle boxing, it puts them on a collision course with local champ Sugar (Stephen Graham). It’s stuffed with sharp dialogue, thrilling fights and a tender ear for the woes of the disenfranchised. – Jack Seale 4. Slow Horses Where to watch: Apple TV All is rosy in the world of tech specialist Roddy Ho (Christopher Chung). Yes, the man who’s normally as sensitive as a malware infection has somehow got himself a girlfriend, and fellow spook Shirley (Aimee-Ffion Edwards) is trying to convince their boss Jackson Lamb (Gary Oldman) that the situation is not as it seems. Such is the set-up for this fifth outing for the Slough House spies, which, as it unfolds, also takes in a killing spree at a shopping precinct and an acrimonious London mayoral race. As ever, the series pulls off the high-wire feat of treating drama and comedy as equals, without stinting on either thrills or laughs. – David Brown 3. Blue Lights Where to watch: BBC iPlayer Each series of the top-drawer Northern Irish police drama widens the scope, with this third run zooming out from street gangs and sectarian tensions to focus on those who really hold power in the Belfast of 2025. There are also changes within the team itself, including the promotion of cupcake-baking Stevie O’Neill (Martin McCann), who’s now elevated to the rank of sergeant. But remaining a key feature throughout are the life-or-death situations in which the officers often find themselves. No matter how primed viewers now believe themselves to be, these stand-offs always feel fraught with unpredictability and as tense as a clenched fist. – David Brown 2. I Fought the Law Where to watch: ITVX Sheridan Smith delivers a tour de force performance as Ann Ming, the mother who campaigned for decades to change the double jeopardy law so her daughter Julie Hogg’s acquitted killer could be tried again for the crime. This is no dry legal/courtroom drama, however. Much of the focus is on the traumatic months and years after Julie’s brutal murder in 1989. It starts with Ann’s discovery of her daughter’s body and the police’s inept investigations, followed by the harrowing years of injustice the family endured in the courts. While you will cheer on Ann’s fortitude and resilience, this will tear you apart. – Jane Rackham 1. Adolescence Where to watch: Netflix Radio Times' reviewers don’t always agree, but when it came to deciding what should take the top spot in ranking our dramas of the year, we were unanimous. Away from the adulation and the awards (Stephen Graham, Erin Doherty and Owen Cooper all won Emmys, the last becoming the youngest ever male recipient), this Netflix series had a profound real-world impact. It brought pertinent topics to the fore, including knife crime, violence and misogyny among today’s teenagers, with discussion reaching the police and government. The show’s creator and writer Jack Thorne was invited to speak at Parliament, while Keir Starmer called for the four-part drama to be shown in schools. A brilliant alchemy of on- and off-screen talent converges, with Thorne penning the series alongside Graham, and behind the camera is lauded “one-shot” director Philip Barantini, with whom the actor previously collaborated on Boiling Point, managing to pull off the sublime device of filming each episode in a continuous real-time scene. It is ambitious, unrelenting and phenomenally choreographed, and adds an intensity and claustrophobia to the story of Jamie (Cooper), a 13-year-old arrested on suspicion of murdering a classmate. Before he’s interviewed by police, he emphatically tells dad Eddie (Graham) that he’s innocent. But what’s the truth? – Frances Taylor Add these shows 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 Drama 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.
EastEnders' Michelle Ryan hints Slaters’ Christmas Day feast is derailed at The Vic
"Walford residents learn the consequences of their actions as they are visited by ghosts of their past, villains of the present, and visions of the future."
This year's EastEnders Christmas special looks set to honour the soap's long-standing tradition of everything going spectacularly wrong in Walford, as teased in the BBC's official trailer. Zoe Slater is looking forward to her first family Christmas "in forever", but the reveal of her mystery stalker – who has been terrorising her since her return to the Square in June – threatens to plunge the day into chaos. That's according to Michelle Ryan, who dropped a telling hint during an official Q&A with co-star Jessie Wallace. "This year, there is no Christmas meal for the Slaters," she teased, while discussing whether the cast actually eat the festive food during those scenes. "That just didn't happen." The Slaters are due to host a community dinner at The Vic – but it sounds like the pigs in blankets will have to wait. "Walford residents learn the consequences of their actions as they are visited by ghosts of their past, villains of the present, and visions of the future," reads the synopsis. "Kat remains fiercely protective of Zoe, who remains determined to reunite with her long-lost son, but with a mystery tormentor hellbent on driving Zoe out of the Square, the search for answers unlocks shocking secrets that puts Kat’s motherly love to the test." And that’s not the only drama on the way... View oEmbed on the source website Another imminent storyline guaranteed to shake things up is Max Branning's explosive meeting with Cindy Beale. The pair have never met, but Cindy knows Max was responsible for her son Steven Beale's death while she was in witness protection. Max is also set to be the main focus of the format-breaking New Year's Day episode, which will jump a whole year into the future – to 2027 – with catastrophic consequences for him and his family. A preview image even shows Max in a suit with a blood-stained buttonhole. Read more: EastEnders 2025 Christmas schedule confirmed by BBC - including festive episode timings EastEnders airs tragic exit scenes for Mitchell family member in early BBC iPlayer release EastEnders airs desperate Sam Mitchell scenes as she takes advantage of Nigel Bates in BBC iPlayer release EastEnders Christmas and New Year spoilers: Your day-by-day guide as Slater and Branning secrets implode EastEnders cast: Who is joining, leaving and returning to the soap? Executive producer Ben Wadey has confirmed the episode is designed to raise more questions than answers, teasing that while Max and his family appear to be in serious trouble, "all is not what it seems". Either way, viewers will have to stick with it through 2026 to find out that strand plays out. 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 Guideto find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Doctor Who boss Russell T Davies explains why scenes with Kate and the Doctor are "very hard" to write
Russell T Davies discusses the challenges of writing Kate Lethbridge-Stewart alongside the Doctor.
Ahead of tonight's The War Between the Land and the Sea finale, titled The End of the War, creator Russell T Davies and his co-writer Pete McTighe sat down with BBC digital series The Whoniverse Show – which you can watch on YouTube – to talk about the Doctor Who spin-off. While discussing the origins of the series and previewing the finale, which Davies described as "carnage", conversation naturally turned to Jemma Redgrave's Kate Lethbridge-Stewart, head of UNIT, who has been a Doctor Who mainstay since her introduction in 2012. "It's amazing to see Kate's character built out a bit more because she's been in Doctor Who for quite a while now," said presenter Christel Dee. "It's lovely to see her really be pushed to the limits," she added, before asking the pair to talk us through her journey to date. Davies was full of praise for Redgrave herself, saying that he promoted her to head of UNIT because she's so "wonderful" and he was always "determined to give her more to do". But he also said that was easier said than done. "It's very hard to give Kate more to do when the Doctor's there, because he knows everything and does everything," he explained. "So it was a great opportunity for her to spread her wings in this, and off she goes." McTighe continued: "I did a little bit of that in [season 15, episode 4's] Lucky Day, just pushing her into slightly darker territory... when she's kind of confronted with all that terrible stuff that's happening, knowing where we were going in this and what we were kind of setting up in this. "But it's just great to be able to invest so much more time in that character... and watch that journey. It's an amazing journey that goes right to the very end of the series." Read more: Doctor Who producer reveals how classic episode narrowly avoided "alarming" hospital incident Doctor Who's best 10 Christmas specials ranked – from The Christmas Invasion to The Church on Ruby Road "And the very end of her wits," chuckled Davies, as he referenced the scene in episode 5 when she meets with her psychiatrist. "She shows sides to her you've never seen before, and she's ferocious. I love her," he added. Davies also revealed that the romance between Kate and Colonel Christopher Ibrahim, which was teased in Doctor Who, was always going to be developed further. "It's a lovely relationship that's been borne very naturally and allows us to explore Kate more, and also allows us to explore Christopher, who's been very noble and dutiful and doing his job – but now he's got an inner life... so interesting things to come with those." While details about what you can expect in the finale have been kept firmly under wraps, Redgrave has teased that there could be some serious jeopardy in store for Kate. Redgrave told RadioTimes.com exclusively: "If she survives this series, I don't know where she can go next… "But I've had a most extraordinary time and journey with this character and through different series of Doctor Who and now through this series. And every time I get the call, it feels like another gift. Long may it last." The War Between the Land and the Sea finale airs on Sunday 21st December at 8:05pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Add The War Between the Land and the Sea 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.
Strictly hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman given emotional Royal send-off on final show
The pair have fronted the long-running BBC dance series together since 2014.
And just like that, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman's time on Strictly Come Dancing has drawn to a close — with Queen Camilla, of all people, marking the moment with an incredibly moving message. The news of their exit was announced back in October, with the pair sharing a joint statement on Instagram in which they described their time on the BBC dance series as "an absolute dream". They also shared individual statements, with Daly writing she "could never have imagined the magic it would bring", while Winkleman hailed it as "the greatest relationship of my career". Daly has been at the helm since the very beginning, first alongside Sir Bruce Forsyth, with Winkleman – who previously hosted spin-off It Takes Two – joining her in 2014. And while they'll return for this year’s Christmas special (filmed earlier in the year), their main Strictly run has now come to an end. Their farewell was marked with an emotional VT featuring members of the production team, who praised their contribution to the series and described them as the "nation's icons". View oEmbed on the source website As Tess and Claud began reacting to the VT, judge Craig Revel Horwood interrupted them and read out some very special words from "superfan" Camilla: "Dear Tess and Claudia, as you prepare to take your final twirl, I just want to say thank you on behalf of the millions who watch you each week. "I've often thought that Strictly is not so much a show about dancing as about friendships: the bonds forged, the struggles overcome and the joy shared in undertaking a joint endeavour. If that is true, then perhaps yours has been the greatest Strictly partnership of all. "The warmth, compassion and sheer happiness you have radiated with and from each other has been at the heart of the show's success." She continued: "I think I speak for everyone when I say you have been utterly fab-u-lous. I wish you both every success in wherever life's journey takes you next, but as one who has appreciated its lifelong benefits, do promise us one thing: keep dancing. "With warmest gratitude and admiration, Her Royal Highness, Queen Camilla." Naturally, the pair were both incredibly emotional, with Tess describing it as "unbelievable" and Claudia calling it "amazing" as they announced the winner of Strictly one final time — with former footballer and sports journalist Karen Carney taking home this year's Glitterball. Attention will now return to who could take over the reins from the duo. Read more: Who could replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on Strictly Come Dancing? Strictly fans say the "whole of UK is crying" after "incredibly moving" Showdance Janette Manrara and Fleur East currently host It Takes Two, which makes them contenders, while Rylan Clark's name has also been floated. Zoe Ball – who has just left BBC Radio 2 – is reportedly in the running too, with Bradley Walsh, Alex Jones and Alan Carr among the other names that have surfaced. As and when we hear more, we'll be sure to let you know! Strictly Come Dancing concludes on BBC One and iPlayer on Saturday 20th December. Add Strictly Come Dancing 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.
Is Return to Paradise coming back for season 3?
**Warning: Return to Paradise spoilers follow.** In Return to Paradise's sophomore season, Mackenzie not only had her hands full investigating a slew of fresh murders, she also decided that she wanted her ex back – a feeling she didn't enjoy, but couldn't ignore. Yet, Glenn was engaged to Daisy, and he had no intention of walking away from her – that is until their wedding delivered a curveball or two which has shifted things dramatically. So, what now for Mack and Glenn? Are they really destined to be together? Or do the writers have a few more surprises in store? Read on for everything we know so far about a potential Return to Paradise season 3. Has Return to Paradise been renewed for season 3? Not yet – but its stars would love to return if given the opportunity. "When we're on a break from filming, Peter Mattessi, our showrunner and our head writer, texted me something just about the show, and then he wrote, 'I'm sorry, you're probably not thinking about the show at all at the moment, you're on your break,'" Anna Samson told RadioTimes.com. "And I said, 'Mackenzie Clarke is always a little bit in my mind. I'm never quite not thinking about the show.' So she is still alive in me and a character I love, and I'm not ready to put her story fully to bed yet. We'll see what the audience has to say about it." Lloyd Griffith would also like RTP to follow Death in Paradise and Beyond Paradise's lead and get its own festive episode. "I keep banging the drum of trying to do a Christmas special and then do season 3, season 4, season 9," he added, before confirming: "I’m being serious." Read more: Beyond Paradise Christmas special teases Humphrey and Martha wedding in first-look pictures Death in Paradise and Beyond Paradise 2025 Christmas specials air dates confirmed by BBC Tai Hara echoed his comments: "The Christmas episode would be one that we'd all love to do. And I think what was so brilliant was at the end of season 2, we found out that we were nominated for a Logie and season 1 picked up Best Drama. "So that was already so exciting at the end of season 2. And I think I can easily speak for everyone that we would be so thrilled to come back and do some more." When could Return to Paradise season 3 be released? Seasons 1 and 2 premiered in September 2024 and November 2025, so if it does get the green light, we'd expect season 3 to arrive in late 2026. Which cast could star in Return to Paradise season 3? It wouldn't be RTP without Anna Samson as Mackenzie Clarke at the helm. We'd also expect her to be joined by the rest of her colleagues, so that's: Lloyd Griffith as Colin Cartwright Catherine McClements as Philomena Strong Celia Ireland as Reggie Rocco Aaron McGrath as Felix Wilkinson But there's a question mark hanging over Tai Hara as Glenn Strong, who we would expect to return, but could there be a delay (more on that later)? And it remains to be seen if Andrea Demetriades would be back as Daisy Dixon. Plus, there will be plenty of new guest stars if the show is renewed. What could happen in Return to Paradise season 3? The season 2 finale was eventful, to say the least. It was all systems go for Glenn and Daisy's wedding, but when a woman dropped dead shortly after the celebrant asked if there were any objections, their big day was naturally paused while Mackenzie raced to find the killer. Initially, Daisy wanted to reschedule, but the detective promised that she would solve the case in a jiffy so that they could crack on. The investigation took longer than everyone had hoped, however, which resulted in an outburst from Daisy. She let rip at Mack, from whom she had been withholding how she really felt about her for "months" because she's "important" to Glenn. Daisy then told Mack she was no longer welcome at their wedding. But ever the professional, the DI ploughed on with catching the killer and lo and behold, it was the ruddy celebrant. After he was taken away by the police, Glenn told Daisy that he still wanted to marry her, but not only did she not want to reschedule their wedding, she decided to walk away from him because she knew, in his heart of hearts, that he still loved Mack. "I tried to ignore it and that was my mistake because then we ended up here on our wedding day and you're more excited about her than getting married to me." And so, that appears to be that. It really does feel like the end of Glenn and Daisy. But what about Mack and Glenn? Well, he's now decided that he needs to leave Dolphin Dove – mirroring Mack's decision after she left him at the altar on their wedding day. But we don't know where he's going or for how long, just that it will be "a long while". So, what could season 3 bring? Murder, naturally. Dolphin Cove might be beautiful, but we'd be moving on ourselves given its mortality rate. Plus, a Mackenzie-Glenn reunion is surely on the cards, but how that will play out is anyone's guess. Their will-they-won't-they has been a staple of the show, so it remains to be seen if the writers will keep that going, or do something else. Is there a trailer for Return to Paradise season 3? Season 3 has yet to be announced – which means no trailer at the moment. If it does get the thumbs up, you can expect it to arrive in the month leading up to the premiere. Return to Paradise seasons 1 and 2 are available to stream on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Add Return to Paradise 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 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.
Maxton Hall season 3: Release date speculation and latest news
Will Ruby and James return for more drama?
Maxton Hall is officially returning for season 3. Back in June, Ruby and James stars Harriet Herbig-Matten and Damian Hardung confirmed the news in a video captioned "Maxton Hall calling… season 3 is happening" wearing smiles and holding the scripts in their hands. The Prime Video hit is based on Mona Kasten's trilogy, so a third instalment was always on the cards. And after that season 2 ending (more on that in a moment), it would've been a real hammer blow for fans not to reunite with Ruby and James. So, when can we expect it? Who's likely to return? And what might go down next? Here's everything you need to know about Maxton Hall season 3. When will Maxton Hall season 3 be released? Seasons 1 and 2 landed in 2024 and 2025 respectively, so we'd expect the new episodes to arrive in 2026 – likely sometime in the mid-to-late part of the year. Watch this space for updates. Who will be in the Maxton Hall season 3 cast? <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/3/2025/11/Ruby-MH-7a88809.jpg" width="1095" height="730" alt="A woman with light skin and long brown hair stands outdoors, looking intently at a man who faces her with his back to the camera. She wears a light, ruffled blouse with soft pink and white tones, while the man wears a light blue shirt. The setting is bright and natural, with greenery and a body of water blurred in the background. The woman’s expression appears emotional and serious, suggesting a tense or heartfelt moment between the two." title="Maxton Hall" /> It wouldn't be Maxton Hall without Harriet Herbig-Matten as Ruby Bell and Damian Hardung as James Beaufort. Other characters who could return are: Sonja Weißer as Lydia Beaufort Fedja van Huêt as Mortimer Beaufort Justus Riesner as Alistair Ellington Ben Felipe as Cyril Vega Andrea Guo as Lin Wang Esmael Agostinho as Wren Fitzgerald Runa Greiner as Ember Bell Gina Henkel as Helen Bell Martin Neuhaus as Angus Bell Hyun Wanner as Percy And there's always the opportunity for other returnees and new additions, too. What might happen in Maxton Hall season 3? At the end of season 2, Ruby was left completely shattered after being barred from sitting her exams due to her suspension – in turn destroying her dream of studying at Oxford. A photo had surfaced of her with Sutton (the teacher who got Lydia pregnant) at the welcome party — a moment she rightly insisted was "a completely harmless situation". But her protests fell on deaf ears. Read more: Maxton Hall season 2 ending explained: The scandal that sabotages Ruby and James’s happy ever after Although Sutton was arrested, he still chose to drag Ruby into the mess, leaving her future hanging by a thread as she broke down in James's arms. Prime Video hasn't released an official synopsis for season 3 yet, but we do have the blurb for Kasten's third book — and it gives us a solid idea of what's coming, including Ruby and James's relationship being pushed to the brink once again. "Ruby is in shock: her worst nightmare has come true, and now Oxford and all her dreams that finally seemed within reach are at risk," it reads. "Worst of all, everything points to James as the one responsible, even after everything they've been through together. Ruby thought she had met the real James — the one who has his own dreams, the one who makes her laugh and makes her heart beat faster with a single glance. "However, after an explosive fight between the two, they discover a terrible truth. "Together, Ruby fights to graduate, as James tries to clear her name at school. But that means James must once again challenge his father and the expectations placed on him. "And despite everything, James still threatens to break under the weight of his family obligations. Ruby and James must ask themselves whether their worlds are simply too different, or if they can finally find their way back to each other.” Is there a trailer for Maxton Hall season 3? No – as trailers usually arrive in the month leading up to the premiere. But there might be some teasers prior to that. As soon as they arrive, we'll update this page. Maxton Hall—The World Between Us streams on Prime Video – 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 Maxton Hall—The World Between Us 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 Drama 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.
Is Murder Before Evensong returning for season 2?
Reverend Richard Coles' novel Murder Before Evensong has been brought to life for 5 in a new series of the same name, starring Matthew Lewis. The Harry Potter star plays Canon Daniel Clement, a rector who is forced to re-evaluate everything he thought he knew about the market town of Champton when a dead body turns up in his church. "To watch the adaptation is immensely flattering, very gratifying and very exciting, because the team has done such a great job and because it's been through other people's imaginations now, which is always good," said Coles of the end product. "Whenever you write a book, you say goodbye to it when it’s sent to the publisher, as after that the book lands with a reader and exists in their imagination. I've always loved how a book doesn’t just have one life, but lots of lives. "To see creative people, at the top of their game, come together and craft something you didn’t foresee from your work is fascinating." But are there plans to adapt the rest of his Canon Clement Mysteries series? Read more: Murder Before Evensong ending explained: Who killed Anthony Bowness? Murder Before Evensong star explains book changes and teases darker twist on best-selling novel Read on for everything we know so far about a potential Murder Before Evensong season 2. Is Murder Before Evensong returning for season 2? There’s currently no word on the show’s future, but with several more books in the series, a second season seems likely — especially if the ratings delivered. Watch this space for updates. When could a potential Murder Before Evensong season 2 be released? We wouldn’t expect a new series to arrive until at least mid-to-late 2026. Which cast members could return for a potential Murder Before Evensong season 2? Alongside Matthew Lewis as Canon Daniel Clement, we’d also expect to see the following main players: Amanda Redman as Audrey Clement Amit Shah as DS Neil Vanloo Plus, a host of new cast members will undoubtedly join the line-up for the next mystery alongside the odd returning character. What could happen in a potential Murder Before Evensong season 2? If the TV series continues to follow the books, here’s what could be in store (it is an adaptation, so you should expect some changes). The second book in Coles’ series, A Death in the Parish, takes place a few months after Murder Before Evensong. “As Daniel tries to steady his flock, the parish is joined with Upper and Lower Badsaddle, bringing a new tide of unwanted change,” reads the official synopsis. “But church politics soon become the least of Daniel's problems. "His mother – headstrong, fearless Audrey – is obviously up to something, something she is determined to keep from him. And she is not the only one.” Beyond that, the third novel, Murder at the Monastery, finds Daniel recovering from “a secret humiliation” by taking respite at the monastery where he was once a novice. But when he discovers a death there, any hope of peace is shattered. There’s also the potential for a future Christmas special based on Murder Under the Mistletoe, in which Daniel and his mother are “joined by the residents and guests of the big house to drink, eat and be merry” on Christmas Day. But when two people meet under the mistletoe and one of them falls down dead, it seems murder has returned to Champton… Finally, A Death on Location sees “a glamorous Hollywood movie take over Champton House as its set location.” But production grinds to a halt when another murder occurs. Murder Before Evensong is available to stream on 5. Add Murder Before Evensong 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-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 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.
Nobody Wants This soundtrack: All the songs in the Netflix comedy
The soundtrack is full of contemporary pop and indie bangers.
Nobody Wants This returns for season 2 as Joanne and Noah attempt to make a proper go of it following a dramatic, swoon-worthy season 1 finale in which he threw caution to the wind and committed. Netflix’s latest romcom, starring Kristen Bell and Adam Brody as star-crossed lovers, has proved a huge hit, landing the No. 1 spot on the platform’s most-watched list. The series sees Bell as an agnostic podcaster and Brody as a rabbi who cross paths one day and, despite not being each other’s type on paper, fall madly in love. Their intense chemistry is accompanied by a sizzling soundtrack, featuring the likes of Haim, Dua Lipa, and Celeste, alongside lesser-known artists who are sure to become your new faves. The soundtrack already boasts certified bangers, including Sabrina Carpenter’s Manchild and Chappell Roan’s Good Luck, Babe! But it also features a raft of new recordings you’ll no doubt have on repeat for the foreseeable future. Read on for the full tracklist. Nobody Wants This season 2 soundtrack Episode 1 Sunset Blvd by Selena Gomez, benny blanco Pony by Ginuwine Love Me Right by Sister No Magic by Sam Biasucci Losing You by Solange Doo Wop (That Thing) by Lauryn Hill Forward Thinking by Jerry Kalaf Stay by Rihanna Homesick by Cuco Episode 2 Good Luck Babe by Chappell Roan How’s That Working Out by Sofia Valdes feat Cuco London Bridge by Fergie Juice by Young Franco Issue by Bob Junior … Ready For It? by Taylor Swift Episode 3 Palomino by Finneas Episode 4 That Could Be Me by Alessi Rose Kiss From A Rose by the Cellist Tango Theodorus – JP 7 Rings by Ariana Grande Tango Electro-Instr – JP My Day Off by Kacy Hill Episode 5 Big Energy by Latto Die Slow by Josie Dunn Two Hearts Come Through by Bowaswell You Rang by Luke Top feat Britta Phillips & Sofia Bolt Tombola 94 by Dina Ogon That’s What I’ll Be by Baylee Lynn Read more: Is Nobody Wants This returning for season 3? Episode 6 Manchild by Sabrina Carpenter My House by Alessia Cara ExtraL by JENNIE Climate Change by Just Jayne Moi Je by Decouvre Whatever I Dream by Teddi Gold Boys by flowerovlove The Catch by Siobhan Let Me Love You by Amber Mark Here Comes the Bride by n/a Sad Makeup by Yukimi, Little Dragon Anything Could Happen by Ellie Goulding Episode 7 What by BENEE Gallant Minuet Gold And Amber Room At Versailles Saddle Again by Role Model You Got Another Thing Coming by Teddy Swims Episode 8 Reach You by Portugal The Man Who’s Your Boyfriend by Royel Otis Try (Alt Version) by Benet Motive Automatic by Snny Proud Moment by Stefan Lit This Version of Us by Ella Langley Your Girl by Towa Bird Episode 9 At Least I’m Hot by Renee Rapp Time We Wasted by Hotel Dolphine Harsh Truth Apple by Charli XCX Sunchild by 7TEN A Heart Lettin' Go by Chris Stapleton Episode 10 In The Dark by Selena Gomez You’d Be All Mine 7 Rings by Ariana Grande Baby Come Back Losing Touch Get Naughty Melodies by Dermot Kennedy Dancing in the Smoke by Giveon If the World Burns Down by Kacey Musgraves Bite My Tongue by Cassandra Coleman Hit Me Where the Heart is by Mega Simone Nobody Wants This season 1 soundtrack Episode 1 Summer Girl - HAIM ugi - strongboi Cinderella - Remi Wolf Now I'm in It - HAIM You and I - LÉON Episode 2 See Her Out - Francis and the Lights Episode 3 Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden - Valley When The Love Is Gone - Anna Graves Love on the Brain - Rihanna Episode 4 Fly - Anna Graves MY DEMONS - GLU & Phantogram Episode 5 Together Forever - STRFKR Wanna Go Back - babyidontlikeyou Can't Win - LABRYS Always Been You - Shawn Mendes Episode 6 Sure Feels Good - Willie J Healey Episode 7 Knock Knock - Mac Miller Say Cheese - Paul Russell Mirror Mountain - Mini Mansions Tubthumping - Chumbawamba Episode 8 Obsessed - Olivia Rodrigo If You Need to, Keep Time on Me - Fleet Foxes Episode 9 Brutal - Olivia Rodrigo Episode 10 All I Ever Asked - Rachel Chinouriri (Theme From) New York, New York - Frank Sinatra Crank That (Soulja Boy) - Soulja Boy Tell 'Em Levitating - Dua Lipa I'll Make Love to You - Boyz II Men Strange - Celeste See Her Out - Francis and the Lights Nobody Wants This season 2 arrives on Netflix on 23rd October – sign up from £5.99 a month. Netflix is also available on Sky Glass and Virgin Media Stream. Add Nobody Wants This 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-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 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.
Sullivan's Crossing season 4: Release window, potential cast and what could happen
Sullivan's Crossing has officially been renewed for season 4. The Canadian romantic drama, based on the novel series by Robyn Carr, who also wrote Virgin River, is set in the fictional Nova Scotia town of Timberlake. When Hope Calls star Morgan Kohan leads the cast as Maggie Sullivan, a neurosurgeon who returns to her hometown, where she meets Chad Michael Murray's Cal, who fall into a will-they-won't-they dynamic, before finally getting together in season 3. But yet another obstacle entered the frame in the finale, raising more questions as we look ahead to season 4. Read on for everything you need to know about the next chapter of Sullivan's Crossing. Sullivan's Crossing season 4 release window: When will it air? Season 4 will air in the US and Canada in 2026 on The CW, but we don't have an exact date at the moment. All three seasons of Sullivan's Crossing were added to Netflix UK at the beginning of October, but there's no word on when the fourth season will be added. Chances are, viewers will have to wait until it's finished its run overseas before being able to watch. Sullivan's Crossing season 4 potential cast: Who's returning? We'd expect the following to return for season 4: Morgan Kohan as Maggie Sullivan Chad Michael Murray as Cal Jones Scott Patterson as Harry "Sully" Sullivan Tom Jackson as Frank Cranebear Andrea Menard as Edna Cranebear Allan Hawco as Andrew Mathews Lynda Boyd as Phoebe Lancaster Peter Outerbridge as Walter Richard Donat as Roy Gunderson Amalia Williamson as Lola Gunderson Reid Price as Rob Shandon Lindura as Sydney Shandon Dakota Taylor as Rafe Vadas There's also Maggie's estranged husband Liam, played by Marcus Rosner, who was introduced in the season 3 finale. And you can also expect to see the following new faces, as revealed by Deadline: Fuad Ahmed (Christmas Casanova) as Amir Malik - a charming and charismatic chef, and the youngest to ever win a Michelin star. He left his swanky New York City bistro to visit his friend Rob, but his arrival threatens Rob and Sydney's working relationship. Jonathan Silverman (Weekend at Bernie's) as Qunicy Carlson - a young man who lives at the Crossing and bonds with Maggie. Colby Frost (Youngblood) as Ben Nelson - he works with Lola's youth group and wants to be a support system for his sister Tracy. He also reminds Cal of someone. Emerson MacNeil (We Were Liars) as Tracy Nelson - a preteen who is part of Lola's youth group. She's mistrustful of most people. Sullivan's Crossing season 4 potential plot: What could happen? As ever, season 3 proved to be an eventful outing. View oEmbed on the source website Key developments included Maggie’s so-called "summer fling" Liam, actually turning out to be her husband by law. Thankfully, that reveal hasn't destroyed her relationship with Cal — at least, not yet. It remains to be seen what kind of complications Liam will cause in season 4. Maggie is also set to open her new medical practice, while Sully has jetted off to Ireland with Helen, who's meeting with TV producers about adapting her novel for the screen. Still, Sully promised Maggie that nothing could keep him away from Timberlake for good. Elsewhere, Jacob and Lola have committed to making long distance work; Sydney and Rafe are still together, though their differing views on marriage will continue to cause friction next season; and both Cal's dad, Jed, and Edna thankfully survived their respective ordeals. Is there a trailer for Sullivan's Crossing season 4? Not currently. Trailers usually arrive in the month leading up to the premiere. Sullivan's Crossing seasons 1-3 are available to stream on Netflix – sign up from £5.99 a month. Netflix is also available on Sky Glass and Virgin Media Stream. Add Sullivan's Crossing 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-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 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.
Murder Before Evensong cast: Who stars in the 5 murder mystery?
Get to know the cast of 5's new series, and where you've seen them before.
Based on the first novel in Reverend Richard Coles's bestselling Canon Clement Mysteries, Murder Before Evensong stars Matthew Lewis as a rector who finds himself in unfamiliar territory when a dead body is uncovered in his church. The series is set in the fictional village of Champton during the 1980s, and was praised in a four-star review by RadioTimes.com. "Daniel shares Champton rectory with his widowed mother Audrey – and his two dachshunds, Cosmo and Hilda," reads the official synopsis. "When Daniel announces a plan to modernise the church, the parish is suddenly divided. And then a body is found dead at the back of the church. "As the police move in and the bodies start piling up, Daniel is the only one who can try and keep his fractured community together… and catch a killer." Read more: Murder Before Evensong star explains book changes and teases darker twist on best-selling novel Reverend Richard Coles reveals if Murder Before Evensong's crime-solving vicar is based on him While Coles didn't personally write the adaptation – that job fell to Nick Hicks-Beach (Lewis, DCI Banks, Midsomer Murders) – you'll be pleased to hear that he has given it his blessing. "To watch the adaptation is immensely flattering, very gratifying and very exciting, because the team has done such a great job and because it's been through other people's imaginations now, which is always good," he said. "Whenever you write a book, you say goodbye to it when it’s sent to the publisher, as after that the book lands with a reader and exists in their imagination. I've always loved how a book doesn’t just have one life, but lots of lives. To see creative people, at the top of their game, come together and craft something you didn’t foresee from your work is fascinating." A number of familiar faces appear alongside Lewis, plus some you might not recognise. View oEmbed on the source website Read on for a rundown of the major players in Murder Before Evensong. Murder Before Evensong cast Matthew Lewis as Canon Daniel Clement Amanda Redman as Audrey Clement Amit Shah as DS Neil Vanloo Adam James as Bernard, Lord de Floures Tamzin Outhwaite as Stella Harper Nina Toussaint-White as Jane Thwaite Marion Bailey as Kath Sharman Meghan Treadway as Honor de Floures Alexander Delamain as Alex de Floures Amanda Hadingue as Dora Sharman Francis Magee as Edgy Ben Batt as Ned Thwaite Sam Baker Jones as Nathan Fore more information about the characters and where you've seen the cast before, read on. Matthew Lewis as Canon Daniel Clement Who is Canon Daniel Clement? The Rector of Champton St Mary. He is described as "affable and approachable". When Daniel's "difficult" mother arrives without warning, "his life is turned upside-down". "But a more serious challenge lies in wait for Daniel when he stumbles upon the body of his parishioner, Anthony Bowness... who was researching Champton's history during the war," reads the official synopsis. What else has Matthew Lewis been in? He's best known for playing Neville Longbottom in Harry Potter. He's also appeared in Avoidance, All Creatures Great and Small, Ripper Street and Happy Valley. Amanda Redman as Audrey Clement Who is Audrey Clement? Daniel's mother. "We have to remember Audrey was a young woman during the war and people of her age are a different breed; they're much tougher, more stoic, and they put up with problems and get on with it. I really admire that," said Redman. On Audrey's relationship with Daniel, Redman said: "Audrey does love Daniel very much but, again, she's of a generation that weren’t particularly tactile or effusive towards their children. They have a slightly strained relationship, but I think they’re very alike." What else has Amanda Redman been in? Her extensive CV includes New Tricks, At Home with the Braithwaites, The Good Karma Hospital, Sexy Beast and Dangerfield. Amit Shah as DS Neil Vanloo Who is DS Neil Vanloo? "He's a Mancunian detective... who's thorough, open-minded, professional, and likes to think outside the box," said Shah. "Neil doesn’t have access to the facilities or technology the police have today, so he has to be inventive and use what’s at his disposal. He's clever in spotting a resource in Daniel, who’s so well-connected in Champton." What else has Amit Shah been in? Happy Valley, Mr Bates vs The Post Office and The Other One are just some of the shows he's appeared in. Adam James as Bernard, Lord de Floures Who is Bernard, Lord de Floures? The patron of Daniel's church. He lives in Champton House. "Sadly, he's still very much a man of his time and his upbringing, a creature of habit who isn’t dealing brilliantly with the modern world," said James. "I had to find the humanity and reality of Bernard, rather than be a pastiche or cliche of a man from that time, as he’s dealing with the future of the house and continuing his family’s lineage. Early in the series he invites other well-to-do families round to almost, but not quite, organise a marriage for his son Alex." What else has Adam James been in? He has appeared in Doctor Foster, The Couple Next Door, Hotel Portofino, Treason, The Day of the Jackal, The Suspect, Vigil, I May Destroy You and Belgravia, among others. Tamzin Outhwaite as Stella Harper Who is Stella Harper? She runs a high-end fashion boutique. What else has Tamzin Outhwaite been in? Alongside EastEnders, her credits include The Wives, Murder Is Easy, The Tower, Ridley Road, New Tricks, The Fixer and Hotel Babylon. Nina Toussaint-White as Jane Thwaite Who is Jane Thwaite? The church organist. She is married to a photographer for the local paper. What else has Nina Toussaint-White been in? You might have watched her in EastEnders, Emmerdale, The Sister, Witness Number 3, Showtrial, Shetland and The Feed. Marion Bailey as Kath Sharman Who is Kath Sharman? Kath is on the parish council and lives with her sister. Poppy Allen Quarmby plays Young Kath. What else has Marion Bailey been in? You probably know her from The Crown. Meghan Treadway as Honor de Floures Who is Honor de Floures? Bernard's daughter. "Honor, his daughter, seems to be in lockstep with Bernard in how to manage the household," said James. What else has Meghan Treadway been in? Her credits include Flack and The Outlaws. Alexander Delamain as Alex de Floures Who is Alex de Floures? Bernard's son, who he's trying to marry off. "Bernard let schooling do a lot of parenting on his behalf and now, as they become young adults, the trouble begins," said James. Adam describes Alex as an "outlier" in the family, "and that's where the drama lies". What else has Alexander Delamain been in? This is his most notable role to date. Additional cast includes: Amanda Hadingue (Kaos) as Dora Sharman - Kath's terminally ill sister. Young Dora is played by Maya Loveday. Francis Magee (Kin) as Edgy - the Champton House groundsman. Ben Batt (Scott & Bailey) as Ned Thwaite - Jane's husband. Sam Baker Jones (DI Ray) as Nathan - Edgy's grandson. You can also expect to see: Emma Beattie as Margaret Porteous David Newman as Harry Cobbe Thea Beyleveld as Katrina Cobbe Adam Smethurst as Anthony Bowness Paul Beech as Ernie Cobbe Ken Bones as Bishop Creggan Sophie Bloor as DC Corinne Wells Maggie McCarthy as Mrs Braines Gary Bates as Howard, Art Dealer Jonathan Cobb as Reporter Tom Crowley as Reporter, Daily Express Justine Cain as Travel Agent Steven Rostance as TV Reporter Lee Garrett as Desk Sergeant Morgan Philpott as Barman Ben Abell as Police Office Noé Sébert as Hervé Murder Before Evensong premieres on 5 at 9pm on Tuesday 7th October. Add Murder Before Evensong 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-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 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.
Where was Murder Before Evensong filmed?
The 5 crime series is set in Champton, but is it a real place?
Reverend Richard Coles's best-selling Canon Clement Mysteries has been given the TV treatment by 5, starring Matthew Lewis and Amanda Redman. Murder Before Evensong, based on the first book in the series, follows Lewis as Canon Daniel Clement, a rector who is forced to navigate unfamiliar territory when a dead body is found in his church – all while managing his overbearing mother, played by Redman, which proves just as challenging. So, a typical cosy crime caper, then? Not according to Lewis. "The book was given the label of 'cosy crime' a long time ago, so naturally the series has been categorised in the same fold," he explained. "A period murder mystery with a clergyman solving a crime would seem to fit the bill of cosy crime, but I don't believe it's that at all. "I think this will subvert expectations; if people come looking for that type of story, I hope they’re not put off by the series, and I also hope people who would enjoy the mystery aren't put off from watching because they think it’s cosy crime. "[Writer] Nick [Hicks-Beach] has added so much depth to the characters, the story deals with a lot of very real social issues which are still relevant today, and there’s a darkness to the story. There’s a whole lot in here which gives it depth. "People will engage with this series and its characters in a deep and personal way. I hope people enjoy how the show differs from other murder mysteries and buy into the story, because it will ultimately be very rewarding." Another aspect of the story likely to capture viewers' attention is its picturesque setting. The narrative is set in the town of Champton, which is, as you'd expect, a fictional place. So, where did the cast and crew really pitch up? Read on for a rundown of the main locations featured in Murder Before Evensong. Murder Before Evensong filming locations The series was filmed in the West Midlands – Coles describes himself as a "Midlander to my very core" (via BBC) – with the village of Worfield, near Bridgnorth, doubling for Champton. Other locations that feature in the series include: Leamington Spa, Warwickshire. Offchurch, Warwickshire. Welford-on-Avon, Warwickshire. Claverley, Shropshire. Dudmaston Hall, Shropshire. The former headquarters of the Express & Star, Wolverhampton. Chillington Hall, Staffordshire. "It was unbelievable," said Adam James (Bernard De Floures) of filming at Chillington. "When you have locations like that it’s brilliant, because it does three quarters of the job for you and you just have to inhabit the space. You instantly transport yourself and feel like the lord of the manor. "I felt very comfortable in that environment and there was almost no acting required." Read more: Murder Before Evensong star explains book changes and teases darker twist on best-selling novel Reverend Richard Coles reveals if Murder Before Evensong's crime-solving vicar is based on him Murder Before Evensong premieres on 5 at 9pm on Tuesday 7th October. Add Murder Before Evensong 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-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 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.
Celia Imrie says The Celebrity Traitors might bring out her “naughty streak”
The Thursday Murder Club actor, 73, is nervous about some of the missions, and being "exposed" as herself…
This article first appeared in Radio Times magazine. Celia, why have you decided to take part in The Celebrity Traitors? Well, it’s the most talked about game on television, isn’t it? On both sides of the Atlantic – worldwide in fact. I just think it’s such a clever invention. I’d love to meet the person who thought it up. What will you bring to the game? It’s a very good thing to remain as open as possible, really. But people think I’m nice, which could be useful. Are you good at reading people, would you say? Can you spot a liar? Yes, but I’ve got to have time. I don’t think it’s an instant thing. I want to give myself time to scrutinise their body language. Do you want to be a Traitor or a Faithful? I don’t really mind – if Claudia’s hand goes on my shoulder, I’ll be ecstatic with excitement. But I do think it’s quite a hard job. We recently spoke to you for your role in The Thursday Murder Club — was all that mystery and murder good practice? In a strange sort of way, yes. More generally, I suppose, being an actor, you do spend your life pretending to be somebody else, so that’s quite an advantage. But it is also a horror, because you haven’t got a character to hide behind here. It’s quite exposing. It’s true, we rarely see Celia Imrie “as herself”… In my autobiography I say that actresses are likened to Victorian young girls sitting round a ballroom on their gilt chairs waiting to be asked to dance. We all have to wait for the part to come along. Yes, I could play Hedda Gabler in my attic but there’s nobody to tell me how good I am. If I was Van Gogh, I could create a painting in the middle of the night, I wouldn’t need an audience. The only thing I have tried to do in terms of control in my career is to attempt to try and do something as different to the last thing so as not to be pigeonholed. And this, to be a player of The Traitors, is as different to anything else I have ever done. Speaking of the game — how do you feel about the Missions? I’m quite nervous about them. I watched a bit of the first series where people were upside down on one of those wheels. That would give me the absolute heebie jeebies. I wouldn’t want to be a bad sport, but I really wouldn’t want to do that. I’m not mad about heights – I used to love fairground rides when I was younger, but not now. You’ve watched the previous series — do you have a favourite player? The young soldier boy, Harry Clark [from series two]. I was so on his side all the way through, and then I thought he was a wretch at the end! Clearly, the game changes people — will we might see a different side to you? Yes, quite possibly. I have a naughty streak that I find hard to suppress. The latest issue of Radio Times is out now – subscribe here. 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.
Slow Horses star on joining Celebrity Traitors: “I think I can smell bulls**t”
Actor and comedian Nick Mohammed, 44, has already considered his Celebrity Traitors strategy – but can he keep a straight face?
This article first appeared in Radio Times magazine. Nick, why join The Celebrity Traitors? I absolutely adore the show, and always have done. This is the first thing I’ve ever done as myself. I did Taskmaster, which was sort of as me, but even that, I decided to dress as Dracula to hide behind something. In my comedy I’m usually in character, so I tend not to do much as myself to preserve that element of mystery. But there was no way I was going to give up an opportunity like this! I’ve always loved games like this and to hang out with such a wonderful bunch too – what a privilege. So, your character Mr Swallow won’t be making an appearance? Sadly, I think Nick Mohammed was booked rather than Mr Swallow. But also, can you imagine how irritating that would be, not just for the people taking part, but for the nation! There are always potential tactics from your other work — perhaps a rousing team talk à la Ted Lasso? Maybe that would be good at the Round Table – a sort of Gladiator-style motivational speech. But you don’t want to draw too much attention to yourself or make yourself a target. I don’t know if I would want to do anything too overconfident, because it’s like when Kas [in series three] did a toast to the first person who went and then was immediately suspected as being a Traitor. He was clearly a lovely, lovely guy, I just don’t want to fall into the same trap. It’s a fine line to tread. If you blend into the background too much, people will think you’re deliberately hiding. Have you got a strategy? I think I’ll just try and be quite easy breezy in the first instance. A little further down the line you can maybe start considering strategy – and it also depends on whether I’m made a Traitor or a Faithful. There’s a certain thrill of being made a Traitor, of course, and you’re in a little bit more control, but if I’m a Faithful, I’ll also have that constant worry each night whether I’ll be murdered. That said, I’ve got a lovely family, so it’s sort of a win, win. When my time is up, I get to go back home and see them! Have you done anything to prepare? I’ve thought about it a lot. It was strange watching series three, knowing I was going to be doing it in a few months’ time. But it’s always different with a different group of people, so you can’t copy what previous players have done. I had a couple of dreams about it. One was that I had to do the whole thing in an American accent! Are you looking forward to the Missions? Loads! I love all of that. And how camp the whole show is – the kind of gothic, Wicker Man vibe that they have. Yeah, can’t wait! Would you say that you’re good at reading people? I think I can smell bulls**t, but I think someone lying specifically about whether they’re a Traitor or not is a very different thing because it’s quite abstract. You’ve not chosen it, you’ve been selected. And some people might be amazing at it. That’s the thrill of it. Do you think you’ve got a good poker face? A lot of people I’ve worked with will testify that I do often get the giggles. My biggest worry is the moment when the blindfolds are taken off at the start, because irrespective of whether I’ve been made a Traitor or a Faithful, I’ll struggle not to smile. That is a real, genuine worry. The latest issue of Radio Times is out now – subscribe here. 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.
Stephen Fry wants to be a Faithful on The Celebrity Traitors – because actors are "terrible liars"
"I don’t like the idea of having to plot against people."
This article first appeared in Radio Times magazine. So, Stephen — why have you decided to take part in The Celebrity Traitors? I don’t know. It’s a complete mystery to me. I think it was probably because I’ve done so many things in my life that almost anything I get asked to do, I’ve done something like it. With this, I’ve never done anything like it before. I just thought it would be a new experience. Everybody kept telling me it was a very good show and it sounded interesting. I watched and I had to agree, I did think it was very good. Do you like playing games? And are you competitive? If I do play a game, I like to play it well. I get annoyed if people don’t really throw themselves into it. As for being competitive, I don’t mind losing at all if I’m beaten because I’ve been fairly outplayed. Would you like to be a Traitor or a Faithful? Oh, a Faithful! I don’t like the idea of having to plot against people. It’s annoying to have to find that side of oneself, because in order to play well, you have to be a bit mean. You have to decide to kill people, you’re conspiring with others to do it and you can’t trust them either. So, you’re just under much more pressure. You can see from the previous series that being a Traitor is really quite stressful. Are you looking forward to the Missions? It’s very hard to say. Some of them may be tedious like being back at school, forced into compulsory physical education. It will be interesting to see if we can work together. There are players who are strong and sporty, who will be good at strong sporty things, and then those of us who are less strong and sporty will have to try and hope that we can use our wits in some way. Have you done anything to prepare? No, what can one do? Watching every previous episode wouldn’t help because the people are different. It’s all about the people with this game. Would you say you’re good at reading people? Will you be able to spot a liar? No, absolutely not. Nobody else will either. The idea that you can be good at reading people is absolute nonsense, just like astrology or anything else woo-woo. You just can’t do it. You know, empiricism proves it. People time and time again ask those whose job it is to interrogate and to find out the truth, and it’s simply not possible. We can all be convinced of something, even though the facts tell us otherwise. These notions of, ‘I just knew, it’s the way he lifted his glass, his eye was doing that thing’ – all nonsense. Do you have a good poker face? Yes, but that doesn’t mean anything. Some people look as if they’re lying when they tell the truth and look as if they’re telling the truth when they’re lying. I think the only thing you can go by is when someone makes a mistake, they make a slip, or they themselves at the Round Table choose to get rid of people, and they’re mysteriously spot on in their choice – when the only reason you can think why they would want to get rid of that person is because they have some treacherous reason. But that’s about it. I’ll try to use reason a bit, because instinct is no good. Do you think acting skills can play a part in how you play the game? People think, oh, they’re actors, therefore they’re better liars. Actors are terrible liars! It’s not an actor’s job to lie. It’s an actor’s job to tell the truth. There are also those who are in the sporting arena, and they’re known for their competitiveness. You can’t succeed in sport unless you have a drive that is way beyond that of a normal person. So those are kind of two interesting elements. I don’t know what they’ve got in mind for us, but they’ve obviously considered all of this and will find fun ways of torturing us over the next few weeks. We’d better get used to it, I suppose! The latest issue of Radio Times is out now – subscribe here. 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.
I Fought the Law cast: Who stars alongside Sheridan Smith in ITV true crime drama?
Everything you need to know about the key figures appearing and where you've seen the cast before.
Contains details from the real-life case that you might not want to know prior to watching. Sheridan Smith is no stranger to challenging roles, but ITV's I Fought the Law is undoubtedly one of her toughest to date. She leads the cast as Ann Ming, who campaigned to change the Double Jeopardy Law, which prevented a person from being charged with the same crime twice, following the murder of her 22-year-old daughter Julie. "I just couldn't believe what she'd been through, and how everyone around her had got it so wrong," said Smith of reading Ming's book For The Love of Julie. "It wasn’t just losing her child – which now as a mum I can’t even imagine how you cope with that – but also the fact that she came up against so many different people [in her fight for justice] and was just ignored. "But Ann was like a lioness and she would not take no for an answer. She kept fighting and fighting for years and they all underestimated her. She was this little lady from Middlesbrough, but there she was in the Houses of Parliament fighting to change the law for Julie and to right the wrongs that had been done. "She paved the way for so many other people too, and we all owe her a great deal of respect. It’s brilliant that we are able to get her story out there." Read more: I Fought the Law’s Sheridan Smith “couldn’t stop hugging” real-life subject Ann Ming: “I am completely in awe” But who else stars alongside Smith? And who do they play? Find the main cast rundown below. I Fought the Law cast Sheridan Smith as Ann Ming Victoria Wyant as Julie Daniel York Loh as Charlie Olivia Ng as Angela Marlowe Chan-Reeves as Gary Jake Davies as Matthew Kent Riley as Keith Arnold Andrew Lancel as Guy Whitburn Rufus Jones as Lord Goldsmith Jack James Ryan as William Dunlop For more information about the key figures and where you've seen the cast before, read on. Sheridan Smith plays Ann Ming Who is Ann Ming? After Ann's daughter Julie was murdered, she spent 15 years challenging the Double Jeopardy Law, which prevented people from being charged with the same crime twice, in a bid to bring the perpetrator to justice. What else has Sheridan Smith been in? Her extensive CV includes Funny Girl, Cilla, Mrs Biggs, Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, The Moorside, No Return, Four Lives, Cleaning Up, The Teacher, Gavin & Stacey, The Castaways and Benidorm. Victoria Wyant plays Julie Who is Julie? Ann's daughter. Twenty-two-year-old Julie was strangled to death in her home by a labourer. Her body was then concealed behind a bath panel, where it remained hidden for months. What else has Victoria Wyant been in? You might know her from My Fault: London. Daniel York Loh plays Charlie Who is Charlie Ming? Ann's husband and Julie's father. What else has Daniel York Loh been in? He has appeared in Jade Dragon and Strangers. Olivia Ng plays Angela Who is Angela? Ann and Charlie's daughter, and Julia's sister. What else has Olivia Ng been in? She's also appeared in Phoenix Rise. Marlowe Chan-Reeves plays Gary Who is Gary? Ann and Charlie's son. What else has Marlowe Chan-Reeves been in? His credits include Shetland and Doctor Who. Jake Davies plays Matthew Who is Matthew? Julie's ex partner. They have a son together. What else has Jake Davies been in? You might recognise him from The Missing, A Confession and Screw. Kent Riley plays Keith Arnold Who is Keith Arnold? The detective inspector leading the investigation into Julie's murder. What else has Kent Riley been in? He's best known for Hollyoaks. Andrew Lancel plays Guy Whitburn Who is Guy Whitburn? Guy Whitburn is a QC. What else has Andrew Lancel been in? He's best known for The Bill and Coronation Street. Rufus Jones plays Lord Goldsmith Who is Lord Goldsmith? In order to change the Double Jeopardy Law, Ann had to argue her case to Attorney General Lord Goldsmith and other members of the House of Lords. What else has Rufus Jones been in? You might have watched him in Rivals, W1A and Home. Jack James Ryan plays William Dunlop Who is William Dunlop? The former labourer who murdered Julie Hogg in 1989. He confessed the crime to a prison guard in 1999, believing that the Double Jeopardy Law would protect him. But after the law changed thanks to Ann's tireless efforts, he was sentenced to life in prison in 2006, with a minimum term of 17 years. What else has Jack James Ryan been in? His credits include Coronation Street and Passenger. I Fought the Law airs on ITV1 and ITVX. Check out more of our Drama 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.
Atomic cast: Who stars in the explosive Sky Atlantic action series?
Alfie Allen and Shazad Latif head the cast.
Sky Atlantic's Atomic follows Alfie Allen and Shazad Latif as Max and JJ, who unexpectedly meet on a smuggling route in the Sahara dessert and are "swept into a chaotic, high-stakes mission they never signed up for: trafficking highly enriched uranium across North Africa and the Middle East". But with "the CIA, MI6 and a global web of opposing forces closing in fast", the pair must work together if they want to survive. Atomic was originally pitched as "the two worst people in the world have to save the world", said writer Gregory Burke. "When the path of Max collides with JJ, an unlikely friendship is formed. Together, they are tricked into transporting uranium across North Africa. On the run from a powerful cartel and the CIA, they face a choice: to get out and save themselves, or do what it takes to prevent a nuclear bomb getting into the wrong hands." Speaking about where the idea came from, Burke said: "The project began based on a book by the late journalist William Langewiesche, published in 2006, called The Atomic Bazaar. "The book warned about the possibility of non-state actors or terrorist groups obtaining enough nuclear material to make a crude atomic bomb. It detailed the processes and people involved, including terrorists and drug cartels. "We used the book as the basis for the story but fictionalised everything else. We chose characters from the two major security threats at the time: terrorists and drug dealers. "The story also incorporates themes of nuclear science and quantum theory, reflecting the idea that any atom can be in any state, which applies to our characters as well." Alongside Allen and Latif, a number of other recognisable faces feature in the cast, plus some you might not be familiar with. Find the rundown of the major players below. Atomic cast Alfie Allen as Max Shazad Latif as JJ Samira Wiley as Cassie Bryce Brian Gleeson as Mark Ellis Franklin Virgüez as Antonio Alam Avital Lvova as Oksana Shirokova Stuart Martin as Robert "Rab" Mackintosh Vahid Gold as Khaled Awad Charlie Murphy as Laetitia For more information about the main characters and where you've seen the actors who play them before, read on. Alfie Allen plays Max Who is Max? A drug smuggler who is in the middle of a job when he meets JJ and comes into the possession of some black market uranium. Max is described as "free-spirited". What else has Alfie Allen been in? He's known for Game of Thrones and SAS Rogue Heroes. Shazad Latif plays JJ Who is JJ? JJ (short for Jihadi John, a nickname given to him by Max) is on the run, but we don't initially know why. He's described as an "enigmatic outsider". What else has Shazad Latif been in? His credits include Star Trek: Discovery, Nautilus, The Pursuit of Love, Penny Dreadful, Toast of London and Spooks. Samira Wiley plays Cassie Bryce Who is Cassie Bryce? A "skilled scientist" who is also an undercover officer for the CIA. Cassie believes Max and JJ are "in league with violent extremists". What else has Samira Wiley been in? You probably know her from The Handmaid's Tale and Orange Is the New Black. Brian Gleeson plays Mark Ellis Who is Mark Ellis? He used to work for the CIA. Mark heads to Syria to help Cassie capture Max and JJ. What else has Brian Gleeson been in? He has also appeared in Bad Sisters, The Lazarus Project, Frank of Ireland and The Bisexual. Franklin Virgüez plays Antonio Alam Who is Antonio Alam? The head of the cartel. He is expecting a shipment of uranium, but it goes missing. What else has Franklin Virgüez been in? His extensive CV includes Papá a toda madre, The Two Lives of Estela Carril, The Lord of the Skies, Cosita Linda, Rosario, Natalia del Mar, Eva Luna and Por estas calles, among many, many others. Avital Lvova plays Oksana Shirokova Who is Oksana Shirokova? A Russian woman who "appears to be a London socialite", but "is involved in nefarious activities on behalf of Russia", explained writer Gregory Burke. What else has Avital Lvova been in? You might recognise her from The Tattooist of Auschwitz, The Power and Trackers. Stuart Martin plays Robert "Rab" Mackintosh Who is Rab Mackintosh? A soldier who has history with JJ. What else has Stuart Martin been in? His CV includes In Flight, Miss Scarlet and the Duke, Jamestown and Rebel Moon. Vahid Gold plays Khaled Awad Who is Khaled Awad? He's with the drug enforcement agency in Beirut. Khaled seeks out Cassie for her "nuclear expertise". What else has Vahid Gold been in? His most notable role was in World's End. Charlie Murphy plays Laetitia Who is Laetitia? Max's girlfriend. She is kidnapped by the cartel, who will kill her if Max doesn't successfully deliver the uranium to them. What else has Charlie Murphy been in? You might know her from Peaky Blinders, Happy Valley, Obsession, The Capture and Halo, among others. Atomic is available now on Sky and NOW. View Affiliate Playlist on the source website 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.
One Night cast: Who stars alongside Jodie Whittaker?
The six-part Australian drama follows three women scarred by one night two decades ago.
One Night has made its UK debut on ITV, with the first episode now available to stream on ITVX. The six-part Australian drama follows three women whose lives were fractured by the fallout of a single night two decades ago. In the opening episode, viewers meet Simone (Nicole da Silva), who has channelled long-buried memories into a debut novel that unexpectedly turns her into a literary sensation. But her success quickly sours as it becomes clear that the story doesn’t belong to her alone. At its core is a tragedy that also shaped the lives of her childhood friends Tess (Jodie Whittaker) and Hat (Yael Stone). As fact and fiction blur, old secrets resurface in their coastal hometown, threatening fragile relationships and disturbing the people who would prefer the past stayed buried. With one chapter of the story already revealed, audiences can now follow Simone, Tess and Hat as One Night unpacks the events that shattered their bond. Here’s who else joins Da Silva, Whittaker and Stone in the cast. One Night cast Jodie Whittaker as Tess Nicole da Silva as Simone Yael Stone as Hat Kat Stewart as Vicki George Mason as Joey Erroll Shand as Trevor Noni Hazlehurst as Mary Tina Bursill as Helen William Zappa as Don Damien Strouthos as Mark Jillian Nguyen as Eden For more information about the characters and where you've seen the cast before, read on. Jodie Whittaker plays Tess Who is Tess? When one of her best friends decides to publish a book about a traumatic incident that happened two decades ago, old wounds are reopened as Tess is forced to confront memories she's tried to bury. What else has Jodie Whittaker been in? You probably know her from Doctor Who, Toxic Town, Broadchurch, Time, Trust Me, Black Mirror and Attack the Block. Nicole da Silva plays Simone Who is Simone? She's written a book about a particularly harrowing moment in the lives of her two closest friends, which they urge her not to publish. What else has Nicole da Silva been in? She's known for Wentworth Prison, Doctor Doctor and Rush. Yael Stone plays Hat Who is Hat? She was once the glue that held the trio together. Simone's book forces her to reckon with truths Hat has long avoided. What else has Yael Stone been in? You've probably watched her in Orange Is the New Black. Additional cast includes: Kat Stewart plays Vicki George Mason plays Joey Erroll Shand plays Trevor Noni Hazlehurst plays Mary Tina Bursill plays Helen William Zappa plays Don Damien Strouthos plays Mark Jillian Nguyen plays Eden One Night airs on ITV1 on Saturday nights at 9.30pm and is also available to watch on ITVX, STV and STV Player. 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 Count of Monte Cristo cast: Who stars alongside Sam Claflin and Jeremy Irons?
The latest adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo, starring Sam Claflin as beleaguered French sailor Edmond Dantès, first aired in 2024, before finally making its way to British shores on 2nd August. "Falsely accused of treason, Edmond Dantes, a young sailor, is imprisoned without trial in the Château d’If, a grim island fortress off Marseille," reads the official synopsis. "After many years of captivity, he finally escapes and assumes the identity of the wealthy and enigmatic Count of Monte Cristo. "With his newfound resources, he embarks on a journey of revenge on those who have wrongly accused him." But who else stars alongside Claflin? The Count of Monte Cristo cast Find the key movers and shakers below. Sam Claflin as Edmond Dantès Jeremy Irons as Abbé Faria Blake Ritson as Danglars Karla-Simone Spence as Haydée Harry Taurasi as Fernand Mondego Poppy Corby Tuech as Héloïse Ana Girardot as Mercédès Gabriella Pession as Hermine For more information about the characters and where you've seen the cast before, read on. Sam Claflin plays Edmond Dantès Who is Edmond Dantès? A French sailor who is accused of treason and thrown behind bars. What else has Sam Claflin been in? You might know him from Daisy Jones & The Six, Peaky Blinders, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and Me Before You. Jeremy Irons plays Abbé Faria Who is Abbé Faria? An Italian priest who is imprisoned with Dantès. The pair form a friendship. What else has Jeremy Irons been in? He's known for Dead Ringers, Brideshead Revisited, The French Lieutenant's Woman and Watchmen, among others. Blake Ritson plays Danglars Who is Danglars? A baron who concocts a plot to have Dantès jailed. What else has Blake Ritson been in? He's appeared in The Gilded Age and Krypton. Karla-Simone Spence plays Haydée Who is Haydée? An enslaved woman who falls in love with Dantès. What else has Karla-Simone Spence been in? Her credits include The Confessions of Frannie Langton and Blue Story. Harry Taurasi plays Fernand Mondego Who is Fernand Mondego? A rival of Dantès. They compete for the same woman. What else has Harry Taurasi been in? He's best known for Young Dracula. Poppy Corby Tuech plays Héloïse Who is Héloïse? She is married to Prosecutor de Villefort and is a murderer. What else has Poppy Corby Tuech been in? Her CV includes Harlots and The Royals. Ana Girardot plays Mercédès Who is Mercédès? Dantès's main love interest. What else has Ana Girardot been in? The Returned, Someone, Somewhere and Totems, among others. Gabriella Pession plays Hermine Who is Hermine? She is married to Danglers. Hermine previously had an affair, from which she fell pregnant and gave birth. What else has Gabriella Pession been in? You might know her from Tell Me Lies, Those About to Die, The Red Door and Capri. The Count of Monte Cristo is on U and U&Drama from Saturday 2 August. 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 Radio Times Podcast with Kit Connor and Joe Locke
The young stars of Heartstopper discuss their rapid rise to fame and what's next…
Add Heartstopper to your watchlist. View oEmbed on the source website In the first part of this second special episode on Heartstopper, Kelly-Anne Taylor talks to Kit Connor, who plays the rugby-playing heartthrob Nick Nelson, about introducing sex to series three, how he is actually an introvert – and what’s next for his career. Then you’ll hear Joe Locke in conversation too, as he discusses the impact playing Charlie has had on his life, handling fame and entering the Marvel Universe.
Top 10 Picks of the Day – Friday 11 October
The only TV awards based on science are back — and it's your chance to vote for your favourites in eight categories
It's that time of year again! Here's your chance to take part in the Radio Times Screen Test Awards 2024, the only TV awards built on science. With thanks to our partners in the Psychology Department at Sussex University, we've set out on a quest to find out what TV shows made the nation feel better over the past year – whether that be happier, more empathetic, educated, informed, trusting or relaxed. In order to find this out, we devised eight key categories for you to have your say in, taken from the past 12 months in television. They are: the Happy TV Award, Empathy Award for Drama, Watercooler Award, The Reith Award, Stress Buster Award, Best Box Set, Trust Award for Audio and The Art of Reflection. Just scroll down to see the longlist for each one, but vote for your favourites below. Once you've chosen your pick, click "Choose" to register your choice and then click "Next" to move on to the following category. Voting is now open and closes on Friday 16th August at 11:59pm. This is your chance to shape the shortlist. Following the results, our editors, TV experts and our partners at Sussex University will then analyse the shortlist and select the winner in each category. The results will be announced at our awards dinner to be held in London later this year. View Riddle on the source website Radio Times Screen Test Awards 2024 longlist Happy TV Award From drama to comedy, quiz shows to decluttering, which show has put the biggest smile on your face? Big Boys Changing Ends Ghosts Inside No 9 Julia Michael McIntyre's The Wheel Only Murders in the Building The Outlaws Sort Your Life Out with Stacey Solomon Would I Lie to You? Empathy Drama Award Who was the character that touched you, inspired you and moved you to walk in another person’s shoes? Dr Abbey Henderson — Breathtaking Jo Hamilton — Mr Bates vs The Post Office Chris Carson — The Responder Dexter Mayhew — One Day Gabriel — Lost Boys and Fairies Donny Dunn — Baby Reindeer Lali Sokolov — The Tattooist of Auschwitz Leah Whittaker — Three Little Birds Madeline Crow — Douglas Is Cancelled Penelope Featherington — Bridgerton Watercooler Award At its best, television stops us in our tracks and gets us all talking. What won’t you forget in a hurry? Baby Reindeer Mr Bates vs the Post Office Beckham Bridgerton Doctor Who Euro 2024 - England v Netherlands Semi-Final Fool Me Once One Day Top Boy The Traitors The Reith Award Which programme best encapsulates the first two parts of the BBC’s mission to "inform, educate and entertain", as put forward by its first director-general, John Reith? The Assembly Clarkson's Farm D-Day 80: The Unheard Tapes Michael Palin in Nigeria Miners' Strike: A Frontline Story Planet Earth III Pompeii: The New Dig The Secret Genius of Modern Life Ukraine: Enemy in the Woods University Challenge Stress Buster Award TV offers us a doorway to dozens of different worlds. Which show has best allowed you to escape? 007: Road to a Million The 1% Club Death in Paradise The Marlow Murder Club The Great British Sewing Bee Gladiators MasterChef: The Professionals Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing Race Across the World Richard Osman's House of Games Best Box Set A wealth of compelling drama means bingeing is no longer a naughty word. But which show has had you diving in for "just one more"? The Bear Blue Lights Criminal Record The Crown Emily in Paris A Gentleman in Moscow Fallout The Gentlemen Red Eye The Long Shadow Shardlake Shōgun Slow Horses Supacell The Turkish Detective Trust Award for Audio Thanks to podcasts, audio’s bond with listeners has never been stronger. What is the show you count on? The Great Post Office Trial: The Reckoning Just One Thing - with Michael Mosley How Do You Cope? Newscast Political Currency The Rest Is History More or Less Record Review Things Fell Apart Why Do You Hate Me? with Marianna Spring The Art of Reflection In our noisy lives, we all need a place of creative contemplation. Which show has taken you into someone else’s world? Between the Covers First Night of the Proms French and Saunders: Pointed, Bitchy, Bitter: Imagine The Piano George Michael: Portrait of an Artist A Life in Ten Pictures Painting Birds with Jim and Nancy Moir Portrait Artist of the Year Salman Rushdie: Through a Glass Darkly Quentin Blake's Box of Treasures
Secret Diary of a Call Girl cast - where are they now?
What happened to Billie Piper's co-stars?
ITV2 drama Secret Diary of a Call Girl is enjoying a second wind, courtesy of Netflix. The series, which was created by Lucy Prebble (Succession, I Hate Suzie) and ran for four seasons between 2007 and 2011, starred Billie Piper as a high-end escort working in London who kept her lucrative double life hidden from her family. A number of recognisable faces also appeared alongside Piper. Read on to find out who they played, and what else they went on to star in. Secret Diary of a Call Girl main cast Bill Piper as Belle Iddo Goldberg as Ben Cherie Lunghi as Stephanie Ashley Madekwe as Bambi Callum Blue as Alex James D'Arcy as Duncan Lily James as Poppy Gemma Chan as Charlotte Paul Nicholls as Harry Keegan Joanna Bobbin as Jackie David Dawson as Byron Toyah Willcox as Gail Stuart Organ as Niall Billie Piper played Belle Billie Piper starred as Hannah in Secret Diary of a Call Girl, the eponymous 'call girl', known as 'Belle', who pretended she was working as a legal secretary after graduating from university. Prior to that, she was known as companion Rose Tyler in Doctor Who. Her CV also includes Penny Dreadful, Collateral and I Hate Suzie. Film roles include Rare Beasts, Catherine Called Birdy and Scoop. She's set to appear in the second season of Wednesday, and new series Kaos. Iddo Goldberg played Ben Iddo Goldberg played Ben, who dated Hannah at university. He managed a bar in London. He played Freddie Thorne in Peaky Blinders. Other TV roles also include Snowpiercer and Salem. You might also have watched Goldberg in The Zookeeper's Wife. Cherie Lunghi played Stephanie Cherie Lunghi played Stephanie, the head of escorting agency Discreet Elite and Hannah's agent. After Secret Diary, she appeared in various episodes of Lewis, Death in Paradise, Midsomer Murders and Strike. Lunghi was also a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing. Ashley Madekwe played Bambi Ashley Madekwe played Bambi, another escort, who Hannah took under her wing. Madekwe went on to appear in Revenge, Salem, Tell Me a Story and Dr Death. She also starred in County Lines and The Strays. Joanna Bobin played Jackie Joanna Bobin played Jackie, Hannah's sister, who was none the wiser about her sibling's job. You might recognise her from Bridgerton. James D'Arcy played Duncan James D'Arcy played Duncan, Hannah's publisher when she became an author. But their relationship becomes complicated. You might have watched him in Broadchurch, Agent Carter, Homeland, Red Election and Constellation. He appeared in films Dunkirk and Oppenheimer. Callum Blue played Alex Callum Blue played Alex, a doctor who was in a relationship with 'Belle'. Prior to Secret Diary, his credits included Dead Like Me, Related, The Tudors and The Princess Diaries 2. He went on to star in Smallville and Proof. Lily James played Poppy Lily James played Poppy, Stephanie's daughter. She had no idea what her mother did for a living. After Secret Diary, she went on to star in Downton Abbey. Her other TV credits include War and Peace, The Pursuit of Love and Pam & Tommy. James's film credits include live-action Cinderella, Baby Driver, Darkest Hour, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, Yesterday, Rebecca, The Dig and The Iron Claw. David Dawson played Byron David Dawson played Byron, an aristocrat who met Bambi while she was working an escort, before falling in love with her. His credits include Luther, Ripper Street, The Last Kingdom and This Town. Dawson also appeared in film My Policeman. Gemma Chan played Charlotte Gemma Chan played another of Stephanie's employees at Discreet Elite. Her most notable TV role post Secret Diary was Humans. She also appeared in single episodes of Shetland and Death in Paradise. Chan's film roles include Crazy Rich Asians, Captain Marvel, Eternals, The Creator and Don't Worry Darling. Paul Nicholls played Harry Keegan Paul Nicholls starred as Harry Keegan, a detective who solicited Discreet Elite's services. Prior to Secret Diary, he was best known for EastEnders. Nicholls went on to appear in Holby City, Law & Order: UK and Ackley Bridge. Toyah Willcox played Gail Toyah Willcox played Gail, Hannah's mother. She didn't know what her daughter did for a living. Willcox was an established singer before Secret Diary and continues to perform. Stuart Organ played Niall Stuart Organ played Niall, Hannah's father who was also unaware of his daughter's work. Much of Organ's CV includes video game voice-overs. He's also had minor roles in Doctors and Bridgerton. Secret Diary of a Call Girl is available to stream now on Netflix, Prime Video and ITVX. Check out more of our Drama 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 competition – Terms and conditions
The Promoter is Immediate Media Company London Limited (company number 06189487). This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with X. The promotion is open to all residents of the UK, including the Channel Islands, aged 18 years or older, except the Promoter’s employees or contractors and anyone connected with the promotion or their direct family members. The closing date for entries is 09:00am on 3 June 2024. By entering the promotion, the participants agree: to be bound by these terms and conditions; and that should they win the promotion, their name and likeness may be used by the Promoter for pre-arranged promotional purposes. Entrants should enter by replying either 'Targaryen' or 'Velaryon' to the competition post on the Radio Times X account, posted on 31 May 2024. They must also follow the Radio Times X account. Entries received after the closing date of the promotion will not be considered. The Promoter will use entrants’ name and details in accordance with the Immediate Privacy Policy (immediate.co.uk/privacy). These details are being collected and used by the Promoter, not by X. Only one entry will be permitted per person, regardless of method of entry. Bulk entries made by third parties will not be permitted. The prize consists of 3x pairs of tickets to the House of the Dragon season 2 Premiere in London, Leicester Square on 10 June 2024. Winners will be contacted via Direct Message from the official Radio Times X account to request full name which will be passed on to the Prize Supplier. Three winners will be drawn, each receiving 1x pair of tickets. The winning entrants will be the first three eligible entries drawn at random from all the entries after the closing date. The Promoter’s decision as to the winner is final and no correspondence relating to the promotion will be entered into. The Promoter may share the details of the winner with the prize provider for the purposes of fulfilling/delivering the prize. The winner will be notified within 1 day of the close of the promotion by response to their comment from the Radio Times X account. If the winner cannot be contacted or fails to respond within 2 days of such notification being sent, the Promoter reserves the right to offer the prize to a runner up, or to re-offer the prize in any future promotion. There is no cash alternative and the prize will not be transferable. Prizes must be taken as stated and cannot be deferred. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute the prize with one of the same or greater value. The surname and county of residence of the winner will be available upon request by sending an SAE to Radio Times Social Media Lead, Immediate Media 44 Brook Grn, London W6 7BT within two months of the closing date of the promotion. The Promoter will contact the winner before releasing this information and provide the winner the opportunity to object or limit the amount of information shared. The Promoter reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions or to cancel, alter or amend the promotion at any stage, if deemed necessary in its opinion, or if circumstances arise outside of its control. The Promoter does not accept any responsibility for lost, delayed or fraudulent entries. The Promoter excludes liability to the full extent permitted by law for any loss, damage or injury occurring to the participant arising from his or her entry into the promotion or occurring to the winner arising from his or her acceptance of a prize. By entering this promotion you agree to release X of any liability howsoever caused in respect of this promotion. The promotion is subject to the laws of England. This reward offers tickets which provide entry to the stated event only. Travel, accommodation, food and drink, spending money or any other hospitality are not included as part of this reward Sky may make audio/video recordings at events for promotional and marketing purposes such as promos and video content for broadcast, digital and/ or social platforms. Such recordings may include general “crowd shots” which by entering the promotion, you agree to participate in. If an event is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances or adverse weather conditions, we will not give any form of compensation, financial or otherwise.
Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring audiobook competition - Terms and conditions
The Promoter is Immediate Media Company London Limited (company number 06189487). This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with X. The promotion is open to all residents of the UK, including the Channel Islands, aged 18 years or older, except the Promoter’s employees or contractors and anyone connected with the promotion or their direct family members. The closing date for entries is 11:59pm on 1 August 2024. By entering the promotion, the participants agree: to be bound by these terms and conditions; and that should they win the promotion, their name and likeness may be used by the Promoter for pre-arranged promotional purposes. Entrants should enter by commenting their favourite Lord of the Rings character in response to the competition post on the Radio Times X account, posted on 29 July 2024. Entries received after the closing date of the promotion will not be considered. The Promoter will use entrants’ name and details in accordance with the Immediate Privacy Policy (immediate.co.uk/privacy). These details are being collected and used by the Promoter, not by X. Only one entry will be permitted per person, regardless of method of entry. Bulk entries made by third parties will not be permitted. The prize consists of 5x download codes for the Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring audiobook, released by Penguin Random House. Codes are valid only for the Google Play Books app, and winners must have a Gmail account in order to redeem. Codes will be supplied via Direct Message from the official Radio Times X account. Codes must be redeemed within 3 months of the competition closing. Once downloaded, the audiobook will be permanently available within the user’s account. Five winners will be drawn, each receiving 1x code. The winning entrants will be the first five eligible entries drawn at random from all the entries after the closing date. The Promoter’s decision as to the winner is final and no correspondence relating to the promotion will be entered into. The Promoter may share the details of the winner with the prize provider for the purposes of fulfilling/delivering the prize. The winner will be notified within 7 days of the close of the promotion by response to their comment from the Radio Times X account. If the winner cannot be contacted, or fails to respond within 7 days of such notification being sent, the Promoter reserves the right to offer the prize to a runner up, or to re-offer the prize in any future promotion. There is no cash alternative and the prize will not be transferable. Prizes must be taken as stated and cannot be deferred. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute the prize with one of the same or greater value. The surname and county of residence of the winner will be available upon request by sending an SAE to Radio Times Social Media Lead, Immediate Media 44 Brook Grn, London W6 7BT within two months of the closing date of the promotion. The Promoter will contact the winner before releasing this information and provide the winner the opportunity to object or limit the amount of information shared. The Promoter reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions or to cancel, alter or amend the promotion at any stage, if deemed necessary in its opinion, or if circumstances arise outside of its control. The Promoter does not accept any responsibility for lost, delayed or fraudulent entries. The Promoter excludes liability to the full extent permitted by law for any loss, damage or injury occurring to the participant arising from his or her entry into the promotion or occurring to the winner arising from his or her acceptance of a prize. By entering this promotion you agree to release X of any liability howsoever caused in respect of this promotion. The promotion is subject to the laws of England.
Good Omens BBC Radio 4 dramatisation competition - Terms and conditions
The Promoter is Immediate Media Company London Limited (company number 06189487). This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with X. The promotion is open to all residents of the UK, including the Channel Islands, aged 18 years or older, except the Promoter’s employees or contractors and anyone connected with the promotion or their direct family members. The closing date for entries is 11:59pm on 6 June 2024. By entering the promotion, the participants agree: to be bound by these terms and conditions; and that should they win the promotion, their name and likeness may be used by the Promoter for pre-arranged promotional purposes. Entrants should enter by replying either ‘Aziraphale’ or ‘Crowley’ to the competition post on the Radio Times X account, posted on 31 May 2024. They must also follow the Radio Times X account. Entries received after the closing date of the promotion will not be considered. The Promoter will use entrants’ name and details in accordance with the Immediate Privacy Policy (immediate.co.uk/privacy). These details are being collected and used by the Promoter, not by X. Only one entry will be permitted per person, regardless of method of entry. Bulk entries made by third parties will not be permitted. The prize consists of 5x download codes for the Good Omens BBC Radio 4 dramatisation, released by Penguin Random House. Codes are valid only for the Google Play Books app, and winners must have a Gmail account in order to redeem. Codes will be supplied via Direct Message from the official Radio Times X account. Codes must be redeemed within 3 months of the competition closing. Once downloaded, the audiobook will be permanently available within the user’s account. Five winners will be drawn, each receiving 1x code. The winning entrants will be the first five eligible entries drawn at random from all the entries after the closing date. The Promoter’s decision as to the winner is final and no correspondence relating to the promotion will be entered into. The Promoter may share the details of the winner with the prize provider for the purposes of fulfilling/delivering the prize. The winner will be notified within 7 days of the close of the promotion by response to their comment from the Radio Times X account. If the winner cannot be contacted, or fails to respond within 7 days of such notification being sent, the Promoter reserves the right to offer the prize to a runner up, or to re-offer the prize in any future promotion. There is no cash alternative and the prize will not be transferable. Prizes must be taken as stated and cannot be deferred. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute the prize with one of the same or greater value. The surname and county of residence of the winner will be available upon request by sending an SAE to Radio Times Social Media Lead, Immediate Media 44 Brook Grn, London W6 7BT within two months of the closing date of the promotion. The Promoter will contact the winner before releasing this information and provide the winner the opportunity to object or limit the amount of information shared. The Promoter reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions or to cancel, alter or amend the promotion at any stage, if deemed necessary in its opinion, or if circumstances arise outside of its control. The Promoter does not accept any responsibility for lost, delayed or fraudulent entries. The Promoter excludes liability to the full extent permitted by law for any loss, damage or injury occurring to the participant arising from his or her entry into the promotion or occurring to the winner arising from his or her acceptance of a prize. By entering this promotion you agree to release X of any liability howsoever caused in respect of this promotion. The promotion is subject to the laws of England.
Will Israel take part in Eurovision 2024?
This year's contest has been criticised over the country’s inclusion.
As the Eurovision Song Contest gets under way in Sweden, the 37 acts representing their countries are all preparing for a performance like no other, hoping to bag themselves a place in the Grand Final. The performances will be split across two semi-finals, taking place on Tuesday 7th May and Thursday 9th May. Amongst the acts performing during the second semi-final is Israel’s entry, Eden Golan, who will be singing the track Hurricane. Viewers may be wondering why Israel is taking part in the contest, given it is not located in Europe. This year, there has also been criticism over the country’s involvement in the 2024 competition in light of the current situation in Gaza and the Middle East, with some calling for a boycott. Here is the latest about Israel's involvement in Eurovision. Why is Israel in Eurovision? While many often think that a country needs to be part of Europe to take part in Eurovision, that is not the case. Israel has taken part in the Eurovision Song Contest every year since 1973 as the country has been represented by a national broadcaster which is part of the European Broadcasting Union since 1957. The Israel Broadcasting Authority was a member of the EBU from 1957 up until 2017, at which point the IBA was replaced as Israel’s public broadcaster by the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation. The IPBC is currently a member of the EBU, which allows Israel to continue to compete in Eurovision. Other non-European members of the EBU include Armenia, Cyprus and Australia – all of which are competing in Eurovision 2024. Why has there been criticism of Israel’s inclusion in Eurovision 2024? Eurovision has faced criticism over its decision to allow Israel to compete in this year’s competition in light of the current war in Gaza and the Middle East, with some fans and members of the music industry calling for a boycott of the ceremony. Noel Curran – director general of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organises Eurovision – has said in a statement: "We understand the concerns and deeply held views around the current conflict in the Middle East. We can’t fail to be moved by the profound suffering of all those caught up in this terrible war. "However, the Eurovision Song Contest is a non-political music event and a competition between public service broadcasters who are members of the EBU. It is not a contest between governments. "As a member-led organisation, our governing bodies – the Eurovision Song Contest Reference Group and the Executive Board – did review the participants list for the 2024 Contest and agreed that the Israeli public broadcaster KAN met all the competition rules for this year and can participate as it has for the past 50 years." View oEmbed on the source website The artists taking part in this year's contest have also faced backlash for not pulling out of the ceremony, including the UK's act Olly Alexander, who signed a joint statement alongside other entrants explaining they "do not feel comfortable being silent". "It is important to us to stand in solidarity with the oppressed and communicate our heartfelt wish for peace, an immediate and lasting ceasefire, and the safe return of all hostages," the statement read. "We stand united against all forms of hate, including anti-Semitism and Islamophobia. "We firmly believe in the unifying power of music, enabling people to transcend differences and foster meaningful conversations and connections. We feel that it is our duty to create and uphold this space, with a strong hope that it will inspire greater compassion and empathy." Who is representing Israel in Eurovision 2024? Israel will be represented by Eden Golan, a 20-year-old singer who has risen to fame through various singing competitions, including the national talent competition Hakokhav HaBa (Rising Star). Golan will be performing Hurricane, a re-written version of previous entry October Rain, which was previously rejected by the EBU due to its political tones. Israel’s public broadcaster, Kan, initially refused to change the song, but Israel’s President Isaac Herzog called for "necessary adjustments" to be made to ensure the country could participate in the competition.
David Attenborough Life on Air competition – Terms and conditions
The Promoter is Immediate Media Company London Limited (company number 06189487). This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook. The promotion is open to all residents of the UK, including the Channel Islands, aged 18 years or older, except the Promoter’s employees or contractors and anyone connected with the promotion or their direct family members. The closing date for entries is 11.59pm on 14 May, 2023. By entering the promotion, the participants agree: to be bound by these terms and conditions; and that should they win the promotion, their name and likeness may be used by the Promoter for pre-arranged promotional purposes. Entrants should enter by commenting ‘Happy Birthday, David’ under the competition post on the Radio Times Facebook page, posted on 8 May, 2023. Entries received after the closing date of the promotion will not be considered. The Promoter will use entrants’ name and details in accordance with the Immediate Privacy Policy (immediatemedia.co.uk/privacy-policy). These details are being collected and used by the Promoter, not by Facebook. Only one entry will be permitted per person, regardless of method of entry. Bulk entries made by third parties will not be permitted. The prize consists of 5x download codes for the audiobook David Attenborough Life on Air: Memoirs of a Broadcaster, released by Penguin Random House. Codes are valid only for the Google Play Books app, and winners must have a Gmail account in order to redeem. Codes will be supplied via Facebook Direct Message from the official Radio Times Facebook page. Codes must be redeemed within 3 months of the competition closing. Once downloaded, the audiobook will be permanently available within the user’s account. Five winners will be drawn, each receiving 1x code. The winning entrants will be the first five eligible entries drawn at random from all the entries after the closing date. The Promoter’s decision as to the winner is final and no correspondence relating to the promotion will be entered into. The Promoter may share the details of the winner with the prize provider for the purposes of fulfilling/delivering the prize. The winner will be notified within 7 days of the close of the promotion by response to their comment from the Radio Times Facebook page. If the winner cannot be contacted, or fails to respond within 7 days of such notification being sent, the Promoter reserves the right to offer the prize to a runner up, or to re-offer the prize in any future promotion. There is no cash alternative and the prize will not be transferable. Prizes must be taken as stated and cannot be deferred. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute the prize with one of the same or greater value. The surname and county of residence of the winner will be available upon request by sending an SAE to Radio Times Social Media Lead, Immediate Media 44 Brook Grn, London W6 7BT within two months of the closing date of the promotion. The Promoter will contact the winner before releasing this information and provide the winner the opportunity to object or limit the amount of information shared. The Promoter reserves the right to amend these terms and conditions or to cancel, alter or amend the promotion at any stage, if deemed necessary in its opinion, or if circumstances arise outside of its control. The Promoter does not accept any responsibility for lost, delayed or fraudulent entries. The Promoter excludes liability to the full extent permitted by law for any loss, damage or injury occurring to the participant arising from his or her entry into the promotion or occurring to the winner arising from his or her acceptance of a prize. By entering this promotion you agree to release Facebook of any liability howsoever caused in respect of this promotion. The promotion is subject to the laws of England.