The fiendishly difficult quiz show returns for its 16th series
What time is it on? Only Connect is on at 8pm on Mondays on BBC2. Who’s hosting? Victoria Coren Mitchell once again puts the two teams to the test. Victoria revealed in an interview with RT that she initially tried to turn down the offer of presenting the show but after filming the pilot she was instantly hooked. How does Only Connect work? Contestants must engage in plenty of lateral thinking in order to find the links between four seemingly random words or phrases. The programme has become notorious for being the hardest quiz show on TV, even eclipsing University Challenge. There is no prize money on offer, the only motivation the teams need is the pride of being crowned Only Connect champions. What’s with all the hieroglyphs? Only Connect is one of the few shows where even picking the question poses a challenge. At the start of each round teams must choose from six Egyptian hieroglyphs – and hearing contestants call out twisted flax or eye of Horus is enough to put you off when you first tune in. However they were actually introduced to make things simpler after viewers complained the Greek letters, which were used in the first series, were too pretentious. Will I get any answers right? Probably not. Do you have a review? This is what Radio Times's David Butcher had to say about the latest episode: This could be a historic edition of Only Connect (and wow, does the show do well for BBC2 – some weeks it secures more viewers than the blockbusting University Challenge). Because host Victoria Coren Mitchell boggles at the tortured logic of one particular question involving maps and place names. “I genuinely think this is the most difficult question we have ever had,” she marvels, after a team cracks the code and gets the right answer. “This is a level of thinking that I would never get near.” In a great contest between the Eggchasers and the Turophiles, Coren Mitchell also makes honourable mention of her husband David Mitchell’s comedy partner, Robert Webb.
Meet the cast of Top of the Lake: China Girl
We return to Sydney to see who makes up the cast of Top of the Lake series 2
David Morrissey leads the cast of unusual BBC2 series The City and the City. The four-part drama is based on the novel by China Miéville and set in a fictional European city-state – or rather, two. Because even though the twin cities of Beszel and Ul Qoma overlap, anybody in one city must completely ignore the other. And if they don't, a shadowy organisation called Breach will GET them. Sherlock's Lara Pulver and The Missing's David Morrissey star in new BBC2 drama The City And The City David Morrissey thought “trippy” new drama The City And The City would be unfilmable A surprise hit with viewers and critics alike in 2013, Top of the Lake returns for a second series that promises to go "deeper and darker", according to star Elisabeth Moss. Detective Robin Griffin is back with another complex case to solve after a body is found washed up on Bondi beach. View oEmbed on the source website Find out more about the cast and characters for Top of the Lake: China Girl... View oEmbed on the source website Elisabeth Moss – Robin Griffin Who is Robin Griffin? After delving into the trauma of her past in series one, Detective Robin Griffin has headed back to Sydney to try and escape her problems – but more ugly memories are raised as a new case brings her closer to her biological daughter. “I requested that we go in a darker, deeper, more challenging direction because I didn't really think there would be much to do otherwise,” Moss told RadioTimes.com of her character this series. “I feel like the second season, far more than the first, is very much about female relationships and the complications of that.” Where have I seen her before? Elisabeth Moss has had starring roles in The Handmaid's Tale as Offred, The West Wing as the president's daughter Zoey Bartlet, and Mad Men, where she won a Golden Globe for her portrayal of Peggy Olson. Gwendoline Christie – Miranda Hilmarson Who is Miranda Hilmarson? A rookie cop working in the Sydney police department, Miranda is assigned to Robin as the pair try to crack a murder case. “It was the opportunity to explore a very intense and passionate relationship with another woman that operates in a multitude of ways, and – without spoiling anything – ways that are potentially not ideal, that can be conflicted, complex, disturbing, unsettling and tumultuous,” Christie told RadioTimes.com. “I think it's rare that you have such a concentrated view of an intense female relationship.” Where do I know her from? Gwendoline Christie is best known as the master swordswoman Brienne of Tarth in Game of Thrones. She was also the woman behind the mask of Captain Phasma in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Nicole Kidman - Julia Edwards Who is Julia Edwards? Julia is the adoptive mother of Robin's daughter Mary, whom Robin gave up for adoption 17 years ago after she was raped. Julia becomes concerned by her daughter’s new relationship, but also starts a new relationship of her own when she leaves her husband for one of her daughter's teachers. On taking the role of Julia, Nicole Kidman told Vanity Fair: “I am just trying to stay very bold and open and try things and support filmmakers that I believe in, and also people like Jane Campion (writer and director), who has been my friend since I was 14 and discovered me basically.” Where do I know her from? As one of Hollywood's big name stars Nicole Kidman starred in a host of big films including Days of Thunder, Moulin Rouge and Stanley Kubrick's Eyes Wide Shut. Kidman recently made the transition from the big screen to TV when she took on the role of Celeste Wright in the HBO miniseries Big Little Lies. Alice Englert – Mary Edwards Who is Mary Edwards? Mary is the 17-year-old biological daughter of Robin, who was adopted by the Edwards family as a baby and causes strife when she becomes involved with a dangerous man named Puss. “I think Mary is trying to recover from the person that she is without any real input,” Englert said of her character. “She's Julia's child, she's Robin's child, and now she wants to have her own thing – and Puss is that thing for her.” Where have I seen her before? Australian actress Alice Englert is best known for her roles as Rosa in the film Ginger & Rosa, and as Lena Duchannes in the 2013 film Beautiful Creatures. Her mother, Jane Campion, is the screenwriter and director of Top of the Lake, but she's promised that favouritism played no part in her being cast in the role. David Dencik – Alexander “Puss” Braun Who is Alexander “Puss” Braun? A former academic and language teacher living in a brothel, middle-aged troublemaker Puss is not quite the man the Edwards family had in mind for their daughter. “I play this immigrant to Australia; he's an East German academic, he's read very many books, he's a bit of an antagonist to everything in this story and to society as well,” David Dencik told RadioTimes.com. “He is in a way trying to be an outcast, and he allies himself with these sex workers. He also has these cats, and I think the cats are a very good metaphor for his personality: he's unreliable, he's independent, he goes wherever he wants to go and he's dangerous to the story. "And he's very attached to Mary.” Where have I seen him before? Swedish actor David Dencik has had parts in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, where he played Toby Esterhase. He's taken on a slightly more dishevelled look for the role of Puss. For the latest news and expert tips on getting the best deals this year, take a look at our Black Friday 2021 and Cyber Monday 2021 guides. Ewen Leslie – Pyke Edwards Who is Pyke Edwards? A successful lawyer and adoptive father to Mary, Pyke Edwards is the peacemaker in his troubled family. Where have I seen him before? An Australian stage and TV actor, Ewen Leslie has had several parts with the Sydney Theatre Company. He was nominated for an AACTA award for his leading role in Jewboy. This article was originally published in August 2017
A mix of up-and-coming actors and experienced pros fill the line-up for the BBC's new Gay Britannia drama
The one-off feature-length docu-drama Against the Law is part of the BBC's Gay Britannia season. It follows the true story of gay journalist Peter Wildeblood, whose illicit love affair with another man was one of the turning points in the path to the legalisation of homosexuality. The consequent trial of Wildeblood, and his two friends, Lord Montagu and Michael Pitt-Rivers, sparked a shift in public opinion that paved the way for the partial decriminalisation over ten years later. Against the Law is interspersed with touching testimonials from elderly gay men who lived in fear of truly expressing themselves throughout the 1950s. View oEmbed on the source website Daniel Mays – Peter Wildeblood Who does he play? Daniel Mays plays the shy romantic Peter Wildeblood, a gay journalist who is on the search for his first relationship after coming out as gay. He quickly falls into a love affair with RAF corporal Eddie McNally but the relationship unravels after he finds himself in Crown Court, standing accused of committing homosexual offences. Where have I seen him before? Mays is perhaps the most recognizable face on Against the Law and has had roles in several British TV series, including Ashes to Ashes, Doctor Who and Line of Duty. His portrayal of Ronnie Biggs in 2012s Mrs Biggs, saw him nominated for a National Television Award. He has also appeared in film having played the wheeling and dealing private Walker in the recent reboot of Dad’s Army, Yeti in The Firm and has a brief role in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story as Tivik. Richard Gadd – Eddie McNally Who does he play? Richard Gadd plays Royal Air Force corporal Eddie McNally who begins a love affair with Peter Wildeblood whilst on leave from RAF Ely. Described by Peter as “confident, physical and a bit dim” Eddie is everything Peter isn’t. Where have I seen him before? The Scottish actor and comedian takes on one of his first major roles for TV in Against the Law. However you may have seen him on the comedy circuit. His daring comedy show, Monkey See Monkey Do, explored themes of modern masculinity and saw him win the 2016 Edinburgh Comedy Award. Mark Edel Hunt – Edward Montagu Who does he play? Mark Edel Hunt takes on the supporting role of Lord Montagu. He is one of Peter’s few friends and is the first to be arrested after a boy scout makes allegations against him. This leads to a police witch-hunt against those engaging in homosexual acts. The high profile nature of Lord Montagu’s arrest led to the naming of the court case as the Montagu trials which made front page news at the time. Where have I seen him before? Another relatively unknown actor; Mark Edel Hunt has had roles in Brideshead Revisited, Episodes and Call The Midwife. He made headlines in 2013 after calling out an audience member who made a homophobic comment during a play he was starring in. Charles Creed-Miles – Super Intendant Jones Who does he play? Charles Creed-Miles leads the investigation into the then-illegal homosexual acts as Super Intendant Jones. He follows a trail of love letters to the house of Peter Wildeblood and brings him to face court. Where have I seen him before? Charles Creed-Miles played the powerful racehorse kingpin, Billy Kimber, in Peaky Blinders. He also starred as Bill in the gritty criminal drama Wild Bill and played detective Terry Hicock in Harry Brown. Richard Dillane – Prosecutor Roberts Who does he play? Richard Dillane plays Prosecutor Roberts who aims to bring the trio to apparent justice and presents the questionable evidence held against Wildeblood. Where have I seen him before? Dillane has had previous roles in Wolf Hall and Silent Witness, where he played DCI Michael Waite. You might also recognise him as British agent Peter Nicholls from Argo or as Merv Humphreys from Oranges and Sunshine. Mark Gatiss – Dr Landers Who does he play? Dr Landers, played by Mark Gatiss, conducts psychological treatment to “cure” those convicted of being gay. Part of his role involves the administration of aversion therapy through electric shock or chemically induced nausea. His character brings home the alarming fact that being gay was, not so long ago, considered a disease that could be cured. Where have I seen him before? You might recognise Mark Gatiss from the front cover of the latest issue of Radio Times which he has guest edited. On the screen he has played Mycroft in Sherlock, which he co-created, and wrote and starred in The League of Gentlemen. Gatiss is also curating Queers a series of eight short originals that cover a century of Gay Britain for the BBCs Gay Britannia season. Josh Collins – Michael Pitt-Rivers Who does he play? Josh Collins plays Michael Pitt-Rivers, the third man to stand trial alongside Peter and Edward, charged with the same offences of engaging in homosexual acts. Where have I seen him before? Another relative newcomer, Josh Collins has previously had acting credits in the short war drama The River and Between the Lines. Paul Keating – Fanny Who does he play? Paul Keating plays Fanny who Wildeblood first meets at a bar in Piccadilly whilst trying to chat up members of the RAF. They later meet again under very different circumstances while in prison. Where have I seen him before? Keating has predominantly featured on the West End and has been nominated for Olivier awards twice for his roles in Peter Townsend’s Tommy and for his performance as Straight Dave in Closer to Heaven.
Before stepping into the Tardis, Jodie Whittaker will first return to our screens as Cath Hardacre in the new four-part BBC1 drama
New psychological thriller Trust Me stars Jodie Whittaker as a nurse who is driven to impersonating a doctor after losing her job. When is Trust Me on TV? Trust Me concludes at 9pm on Tuesday 29th August. Does Jodie Whittaker make it as a doctor? After being cast as the Doctor in Doctor Who, Jodie Whittaker must prove she has what it takes to impersonate a doctor in Trust Me. The Broadchurch actress plays Cath Hardacre who, after losing her job as a nurse, lives out her secret ambition of becoming a doctor by stealing her friend’s identity. Will she be able to keep up the deception or is she in too deep? What drives her to do it? After being fired for whistleblowing, Cath is left struggling to support her daughter and alcoholic ex-boyfriend. She decides to move away from her troubles to Scotland with the ambition of starting a new life. Who stars alongside Jodie? Filming took place back in January in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Emun Elliott, Sharon Small and Inbetweeeners star Blake Harrison have all been cast alongside new Doctor Jodie. When does Jodie Whittaker start work on Doctor Who? The Trust Me actress is expected to appear in the Christmas special of Doctor Who following Twelfth Doctor Peter Capaldi's regeneration. The one-off episode will be written by outgoing showrunner Steven Moffat but Whittaker's scene will be penned by his replacement, Chris Chibnall.
What time is Man in an Orange Shirt on TV?
Everything you need to know about the two-part drama which forms part of the Gay Britannia season on the BBC
Two-part drama Man in an Orange Shirt follows the complicated love stories of two gay couples, one in the modern day and the other at a time when such relationships could result in a prison sentence. What time is it on? Man in an Orange Shirt concludes on Monday 7th August at 9pm on BBC2. What is the Gay Britannia season? The BBC has commissioned a series of programmes to mark the 50th anniversary of the Sexual Offences Act which decriminalised homosexuality. The 1967 act proved to be a crucial turning point on the path to gay rights. What is Man in an Orange Shirt about? The drama tells two separate love stories set 60 years apart but joined by family ties. In this second episode, Patrick Gale’s romance jumps forward six decades to Adam and his granny Flora (Vanessa Redgrave), living in quiet containment in a rather nice London house. But their lives are boiling vats of denial. Flora (who we saw last week as a young bride married to a gay man) can still barely come to terms with her past while Adam is a slave to meaningless sexual encounters on gay dating apps. When charming, handsome Steve (David Gyasi) arrives in his life Adam (Julian Morris) is so repressed he can’t bring himself to recognise The One, even when he’s standing right there. But the discovery of a painting and a sojourn at the country cottage that meant so much to Adam’s gay grandad Michael and his lover Thomas starts to heal wounds. If you’re a sucker for an old-fashioned love story, you’ll be shedding buckets by the end. View oEmbed on the source website Who stars in the show? Oliver Jackson-Cohen and James McArdle play the two love interests of Michael Berryman and Thomas March whilst Joanna Vanderham plays Thomas’ fiancé, Flora. The script is written by bestselling British novelist Patrick Gale, who has written Rough Music, Friendly Fire and The Aerodynamics of Pork. Man in an Orange Shirt is the author’s screenwriting debut.
What time is Who Do You Think You Are? on TV?
Find out who's discovering their roots this week...
What time is it on? Who Do You Think You Are? Is on Thursday 3 August at 9pm on BBC1. Who's on this week? TV presenter Emma Willis. What does she discover? Big Brother and Voice presenter Emma Willis is immensely proud of her working-class Birmingham roots and reckons she comes from a long line of honest grafters. A photo showing her grim-faced great-grandmother with her family seems to confirm her ancestors were ordinary folk, although she bursts out laughing, “That makes me think of Peaky Blinders! You wouldn’t want to mess with her.” Willis’s main concern is that her forebears are “good” people – and most are, so she seems genuinely excited (and occasionally emotional) about what she discovers. However, it’s when she traces another branch of her family that the surprises start. She’s thrilled to find a relative who was not only a respected and highly skilled stonemason but was also active in the campaign for the rights of Irish workers. Conversely, she’s horrified to learn that in 1790 her five times great-grandfather was a Protestant landowning gentleman in Ireland who, on one occasion at least, did not behave in a very gentlemanly manner. What can we expect from the new series? The new line-up includes celebrities such as Fearne Cotton, Craig Revel Horwood, Clare Balding, Ruby Wax and Emma Willis. There's also a new narrator, Poldark star Phil Davies. Let's hope this series is as packed with revelations as we've come to expect...
Visit Dragonstone and Game of Thrones' new Spanish home - the Basque Country
This northern region of Spain is well worth a visit - and not just because it's the location of Daenerys’ castle
There was one image in particular that brought the Game of Thrones team to Spain’s northern coastline: Gaztelugatxe, a small islet off the coast of Biscay, which is connected to the mainland by a winding, manmade bridge. It was the ideal locale for Daenerys’ ancestral home of Dragonstone. The Basque Country's spectacular coastline will be the location of several important scenes in season seven. This region is very green because it's a lot wetter and cooler than the south of Spain, and filming took place last October and November in order to get the gloomiest weather possible – after all winter is finally here. The first stop for any Game of Thrones fan will of course be Gaztelugatxe, which fittingly translates as "castle rock". It is an island located just off the Bay of Biscay, 35km east from Bilbao. After you've recreated Danaerys’ walk up the winding bridge, there are 241 steps that zigzag to the top of the rock. San Juan de Gaztelugatxe Unfortunately there isn't an impressive castle sat at the pinnacle (Dragonstone itself is all CGI), but there is a small church called San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, and a hermitage has stood in this spot since the 9th century. According to tradition, you should ring the church's bell three times to make a wish. Once you’ve finished exploring, you can relax at Eneperi cafe and restaurant, which is located on the mainland opposite the islet and has impressive views of Gaztelugatxe. 10 best Game of Thrones filming locations in Croatia An hour's drive west is another season seven location: Muriola Beach, which was revealed by local mayor Roberto Muñoz months before the new series was set to air. This stretch of coastline near the small town of Barrika is known for its picturesque cliffs and spectacular rock formations that jut out into the sea. It's popular with surfers and rock climbers. Sunset at Sakoneta Beach near Zumaia, which is famous for its flysch In the other direction, an hour and half's drive east from Gaztelugatxe, near San Sebastian and the French border, is the small town of Zumaia, which has two beaches popular with geologists because of the unique "flysch" that are located there. The Zumaia beaches are home to the largest area of this unusual rock structure in the world. It stretches 8km and gives this section of the Spanish coast an otherworldly feeling that is perfect for the fantasy show. Apparently it is where some of Dany’s forces land in the new series as they make there way across Westeros. View oEmbed on the source website There's plenty to do in the Basque Country once you've explored the locations in Game of Thrones. The coastal city of San Sebastian is the most popular destination in this region thanks to its beautiful old town, museums, aquarium and buzzing bars and restaurants. Gastronomy fans flock here because it has several Michelin-starred restaurants, but there's no need to spend a fortune to enjoy excellent pintxos, which are a Basque speciality – a special kind of tapas. A visit to the Basque country would not be complete without visiting the city of Bilbao. It is rather unflatteringly known as the "Botxo" or "hole" by locals due to the fact it is located in a river valley, surrounded by green mountains. It has become a centre for European art and architect Frank Gehry's striking Guggenheim museum is a must for visitors. The Guggenheim art museum in Bilbao is an architectural masterpiece Bilbao was a favourite of actor Liam Cunningham, who plays Davos Seaworth and visited after filming his scenes in the Basque Country. Guggenheim Bilbao pic.twitter.com/PPBkOig1OS — liam cunningham (@liamcunningham1) October 21, 2016 Festivals are a daily occurrence across the Basque country throughout the summer months. The Semana Grande, or Big Week, takes place over nine days in Bilbao at the end of August. It's a celebration of Basque culture with traditional food, music and sports including rock-drilling, wood-sawing, hay bale-throwing and bull fights. The festival comes to a close with a spectacular fireworks display and a parade of giants who attempt to capture any children on the street. Those keen to see more of the Basque Country's spectacular flora and fauna should head to the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, which follows the River Oka from its source down to the coast. This conservation area encompasses the most diverse landscape in the Basque Country and boasts over 300 species of animals. The nature reserve includes some unique landscapes including the Painted Forest of Oma (an open-air gallery), wetlands where you can catch a sight of fish eagles and spoonbills and more stunning beaches. Where else in Spain has Game of Thrones been filmed? The Game of Thrones team have also filmed in the cities of Girona and Seville, but it's not just the historic buildings and spectacular scenery that attract them to Spain. One of the show's art directors, Christina Moore, stated that, "The reason the producers keep coming back time and time again is because of the enthusiasm for the show, particularly among the extras." Here are our guides to the filming locations in Girona and Seville... Our guide to the real Braavos - the Catalonian city of Girona From Dorne to Meereen: where to find the Game of Thrones filming locations in Andalusia Radio Times Travel holidays Little Trains of the Pyrenees, 5 nights from £599pp. Discover the very special corner of the world that straddles southwest France and Spain's Catalan northeast, as you enjoy journeys into the heart of the stunning Pyrenean countryside aboard some delightful, historic railway lines, winding your way upwards aboard sometimes modern, sometimes historic rolling stock, and across some marvels of railway engineering. What's included: Spend five nights on the beautiful Costa Brava Unspoiled Roses, the holiday base, sits on a sweeping bay Enjoy the views from the Roses Express road train The historic Little Yellow Train climbs into the French Pyrenees from UNESCO-listed Villefranche-de-Conflent The Nuria Rack Railway offers the only access to the year-round Spanish resort Discover the stunning Upper Aude Valley on France's Red Train Three heritage train journeys and a ticket for the Roses road-train Five nights' half-board accommodation at the three-star Prestige Hotel Coral Platja, Roses, including a glass of wine and water at dinner Return flights to Barcelona or Girona Click here for more details and to book Browse all our Spanish holidays, from escorted tours to all-inclusive packages at travel.radiotimes.com/
What time is Born in Chelsea: Baby Steps on TV?
Everything you need to know about Binky and JP's attempts to bring up baby India
Made in Chelsea stars Binky and JP fumble their way through parenthood in their follow-up to Born in Chelsea. What time is it on? Born in Chelsea: Baby Steps airs on Sunday 30th July on E4 at 9pm Who are Binky and JP? Binky is one of the original stars from Made in Chelsea having first appeared on the show in 2011. JP (Josh Patterson) joined later on in the 9th series when he first started dating Binky. Since then the two have been involved in one of the most tempestuous romances featured on the E4 series, sharing an on-off relationship since their first date in 2015. What happened in Born in Chelsea? The first instalment of the pair's spin-off show followed the two Made in Chelsea stars as they prepared for the arrival of their baby daughter by renovating the house and getting tips from their parents. View oEmbed on the source website How do they cope with parenting? Now the baby has arrived the couple face a whole new set of challenges including nappy changes, troublesome breast pumps and baby puke at a photo-shoot. The show promises to give us a real insight into the day-to-day challenges that come with having to look after a newborn baby.
10 TV and film faces at 2017's Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Sue Perkins, Frankie Boyle and Phoebe Waller-Bridge are all off to Edinburgh as the performing arts festival celebrates its 70th anniversary
1. Sara Pascoe: LadsLadsLads After taking a year out to write her acclaimed autobiography, Animals, Sara Pascoe is back on the comedy circuit with LadsLadsLads. The Mock the Week star’s new stand-up show is about her one-woman stag-do and being drunk and lonely. Where: Pleasance Courtyard Date: Aug 2-13, 15-27 Time: 19:00 Book a ticket 2. Sue Perkins Live! in Spectacles Sue Perkins is returning to the Fringe over 10 years since she first made her stand-up debut there. Fresh from the news that she, and her partner in crime Mel, are bringing back the Generation Game, the Bake Off presenter will bravely take on questions from the audience. She also promises to give a unique insight into the Queen of Cakes with her user's guide to Mary Berry. Where: Pleasance Courtyard Date: Aug 23-27 Time: 13:45 Book a ticket 3. Fleabag View oEmbed on the source website Fleabag caused such a stir at the 2013 Fringe that it was adapted into a hit TV show. Now the show's star and writer Phoebe Waller-Bridge is bringing the play back to its birthplace. In the one-woman play, a young woman who goes by the name of Fleabag confides her tales of sexual misadventures and familial mishaps as she attempts to fumble through modern life. Where: Underbelly Date: Aug 21-27 Time: 17:15 Book a ticket Check out our guide to the Edinburgh Festival (what to book and what to busk) 4. Dave Johns: I, Fillum Star Fresh from starring in one of the most critically acclaimed and hard-hitting films of last year, Ken Loach's film I, Daniel Blake, Johns is back behind the microphone in a new stand-up show. Where: Pleasance Dome Date: Aug 3-14, 16-21, 23-27 Time: 19:00 Book a ticket 5. Narcos – A Conversation on the Capturing of Pablo Escobar With DEA Agents Steve Murphy and Javier Pena View oEmbed on the source website The names Steve Murphy and Javier Pena will be recognisable to any Narcos fan. They ex-DEA agents and their attempts to track down the infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar have been turned into a Netflix drama. This is a chance to hear Murphy and Pena's dramatic tales first-hand. Where: New Town Theatre Date: Aug 4-7 Time: 21:10 Book a ticket See page two for Frankie Boyle and a new play by Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh... 6. Frankie Boyle: Prometheus: Volume I View oEmbed on the source website After being dropped from both the BBC and Channel 4 for his controversial sense of humour, Frankie Boyle recently began his TV rehabilitation with Frankie Boyle's New World Order (which is still available on iPlayer). His Fringe show promises to be as offensive and off-the-wall as ever. Where: Venue 150 at EICC Date: Aug 5-9, 20-24 Time: 21:20 Book a ticket 7. Performers Irvine Welsh, the mind behind Trainspotting, is set to premiere a brand new play: another dark comedy set at the height of the swinging 60s. Performers follows two real-life gangsters who audition for a role in a cult British crime film in the hope of starring alongside Mick Jagger. Where: Assembly Rooms Date: Aug 3-13, 15-27 Time: 16:45 Book a ticket 8. Henning Wehn: Westphalia is Not an Option View oEmbed on the source website Henning has established himself as the funniest German on TV (admittedly not a hotly contested title) after appearing on Have I Got News for You, Would I Lie to You?, and The Immigrant's Guide to Britain. For his latest comedy routine, the self-appointed German comedy ambassador tackles Brexit and life in the UK as an immigrant. Where: Queen's Hall Date: Aug 3-6, 10-13, 17-20 Time: 19:30 Book a ticket 17 things I learned at my first Edinburgh Fringe with my mother in tow 9. Ellie Taylor: This Guy You may recognise her from the Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo and more recently the new BBC satire The Mash Report. Her new stand-up show is a message to all the people who ask her when she’s going to start a family. She's been bugged so much about it she's threatened to end the show with a pregnancy test! Where: Pleasance Courtyard Date: Aug 2-4, 6-27 Time: 17:45 Book a ticket 10. Milton Jones is Out There Milton Jones's comedy his as off-beat as his appearance. The king of one-liners and Mock the Week regular will be talking about his life so far – the ups, the downs and why buying his own seesaw was the best decision he ever made. Where: Assembly Hall Date: Aug 3-13, 15-20 Time: 19:30 Book a ticket Radio Times Travel reader offer: The Edinburgh Tattoo, Britannia and Gretna Green, 2 nights from £249pp. Explore the elegant salons and fascinating working areas of the Royal Yacht Britannia, soak up the pageantry of the magical Edinburgh Military Tattoo and explore historic Gretna Green. What's included: A seat for the Edinburgh Tattoo A visit to Gretna Green Entry to the Royal Yacht Britannia Two nights' bed and Scottish breakfast in a hotel in the Ayrshire and Strathclyde area Coach travel throughout Click here for more details and to book
The two London teams face each other in Beijing as part of their pre-season warm up
Pre-season friendly – Arsenal v Chelsea Saturday 22nd July Kick off 12.40 Coverage from 12.25 on ITV Bird’s Nest stadium, Beijing Pre-season games are becoming less and less about getting prepared for the upcoming season and more about commercialisation, with Premier League teams jetting across the world in an attempt to break into new global markets. With this in mind two title contenders, Arsenal and Chelsea, are set to face each other on Saturday in the Beijing Community Shield. As part of their pre-season warm up the two London teams will go head to head in Beijing’s iconic Bird’s Nest stadium, home of the 2008 Olympic games. View oEmbed on the source website Both teams are expected to field strong starting line-ups with Arsenal’s new record signing, Lacazette predicted to make an appearance up front. Antonio Conte has also been putting his best players to the test in Chelsea’s recent friendlies. But don’t expect to see either of the blues’ new signings on the pitch as midfielder, Tiemoue Bakayoko, is out injured and Antonio Rudiger remains on an extended summer break. Both teams go into the match in good form with Arsenal beating Bayern Munich 3-2 on penalties in the Shanghai International Champions Cup; in spite of an outbreak of food poisoning. Whilst Chelsea emphatically beat local rivals Fulham 6-0 in a behind-closed-doors friendly. Who will come out on top in Beijing? And, perhaps more importantly, who will be able to sell more advertisement deals?
BBC reveals special live broadcast to mark 100th anniversary of the Battle of Passchendaele
The BBC will broadcast a series of programmes live from Flanders commemorating one of the bloodiest battles of World War I
The BBC has revealed plans to mark 100 years since the Battle of Passchendaele with a series of live broadcasts remembering one of World War I's bloodiest battles. Desert Island Discs presenter Kirsty Young will host two days of live programming from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission's Tyne Cot Cemetery near Ypres, beginning on Sunday 30th July. Coverage will begin on BBC2 with a broadcast from the traditional Menin Gate ceremony featuring Young and historians David Olusoga and Dan Snow. The show will include live performances from artists including Dame Helen Mirren, Alfie Boe, War Horse, and Ian Hislop and the cast of The Wipers Times. On Monday 31st July, there will be a live broadcast on BBC1 of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s Tyne Cot Cemetery commemorations, marking the first day of the battle. The military ceremony will be attended by Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge and will include a memorial to the missing, acknowledging the 34,000 servicemen who died fighting in the Ypres Salient whose graves are not known. Claire Popplewell, Editor of BBC Events, says: “One hundred years on the name Passchendaele remains synonymous with the inhuman conditions and bloody ferocity of one of the First World War's most horrific battles.” The Battle of Passchendaele was immortalised in the words of soldier and poet, Siegfried Sassoon, who wrote, ''I died in hell - They called it Passchendaele''. It was one of the most horrific battles of the First World War with over half a million casualties; many of whom drowned in the boggy mud. Highlights of the Tyne Cot Cemetery ceremony will be played later on Monday evening on BBC2. The BBC commemorations begin with World War One Remembered: Passchendaele For The Fallen, on Sunday 30th July on BBC2
Stormzy makes a surprise appearance on The Jeremy Kyle Show
Days after causing chaos with his tweets on Love Island, Stormzy sends a fan a special message on The Jeremy Kyle Show
Stormzy has been all over the news recently, whether it's being quoted in the House of Commons or creating chaos on Love Island with his tweets. But now the grime star can add appearing on Jeremy Kyle to the list. The special edition of the show celebrated inspirational children and each child who appeared received a treat. For grime fan Matilda – who suffers with Sensenbrenner syndrome – the treat came in the form of a special video message from Stormzy. View oEmbed on the source website Omg @Stormzy1 on @itvjeremykyle is about to make me cry. I just know it. What a star! ⭐️⭐️⭐️ #jeremykyle pic.twitter.com/XCfbSjkXwz — Hollie B ✌️ (@PBbutterflies) July 20, 2017 If only he could have brought this same harmony and goodwill to Chris and Olivia's Love Island relationship?
What time is the Women’s Euro 2017 match England v Scotland on TV?
This year sees the biggest ever women’s Euro tournament take place with 16 top teams taking part. In this match the two national rivals, England and Scotland, face each other.
What time is the Women's Euro 2017 game between Scotland and England on TV? The Group D match kicks off at 7.45pm on Wednesday 19th July. Coverage starts at 7pm on channel 4. Where is the match taking place? The Stadion Galgenwaard in Utrecht, The Netherlands. View oEmbed on the source website Who’s in form? Both teams have performed well recently with Scotland winning four of their last five games and England winning all five, including a 7-0 thrashing of Serbia. Head to Head England and Scotland have played each other a total of 24 times with England winning a total of 21 times. The total goal count stands at 79-14 in England’s favour. Do Scotland stand a chance? The Scotland team are missing three of their best players after star midfielder Kim Little, defender Jen Beattie and forward Lizzie Arnot all suffered injuries. However the Scottish team will go into the game with some confidence after holding England to a 4-4 draw in their previous outing. Could England win the tournament? Despite having a tricky group to get out of, which includes both Spain and Portugal, Manager Mark Sampson should be confident his team will do well. England beat current favourites, Germany, in the third place tie during 2015s world cup and go into the tournament in great form. Here's hoping the England’s ladies can beat the men’s dismal performance at last years Euros.
When is Olly Alexander: Growing Up Gay on BBC3?
This Gay Britannia documentary follows Years and Years front man, Olly Alexander, who discusses the difficulties young people in the LGBTQ community have faced when coming out.
What time is Growing Up Gay on? Growing Up Gay debuts on BBC 3 on Tuesday July 18th at 10pm. You can watch it here. Who is Olly Alexander? Olly Alexander is the lead singer of electronic pop group Years and Years. The band won the title of BBCs sound of 2015 and their debut album went straight to number one. You might also recognize him from his acting in the West End alongside Judi Dench or from Skins where he had a role as Cassie Ainsworth’s stalker. What does the documentary explore? For this documentary Olly talks to young people who suffer from homophobic bullying, eating disorders and mental health issues, many of which resonate with the singers own experiences of coming out. Read our full review here. What is the Gay Britannia season? To mark the 50th anniversary of the Sexual Offence Act, which partially decriminalised homosexuality in the UK, the BBC is launching Gay Britannia season. A series of shows, which celebrate the LGBTQ community, will be broadcast across the BBC and will explore the history of gay Britain.