The best streaming services in 2025: How to choose between Netflix, Prime and Disney+
We compare Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV, Prime Video and more to help you find your perfect streaming match.
Streaming has never been bigger – or more confusing. In the years since Netflix first revolutionised how we consume film and TV, a whole host of rival platforms have launched to the point that it can now be difficult to know where to begin. From Disney+ – which arrived for UK audiences in March 2020 – to Apple TV, which has amassed a highly impressive catalogue of original films and shows in a relatively time span, there really is a wealth of options. But which is the best of the bunch? To answer that question, we’ve tested and compared the top streaming services available in the UK, breaking down price, the best shows and what kind of TV fan each one’s is suited to. With the help of our comprehensive guide below, you'll be far better qualified to select the ideal streamer for you and your family's viewing needs. Which streaming services are available in the UK? Amazon Prime Video: Budget-friendly all-rounder Apple TV: Big-budget dramas and kids' shows DAZN: Sports and boxing fans Disney+: Families and Marvel and Star Wars lovers Hayu: Reality TV fanatics ITVX: Bingers of British box sets Netflix: Binge-watchers, film lovers and fans of original content NOW: Prestige TV from Sky & HBO and those wanting blockbuster movies Amazon Prime Video Best for those looking for value on a budget Price: £8.99 per month or £95 annually (with half-price option available for students) Free trial: Yes – there is a 30 day free trial option Max resolution: 4k Streams: Up to 3 Prime Video is a great option if you're looking for a streamer that's relatively low budget – with the £95 yearly cost also including membership to Amazon Prime, with all the usual perks including next day delivery. Although it perhaps lags behind some of the other streamers when it comes to the overall quality of its original programming, the platform nonetheless has some major hits – including The Boys and Fallout – and has also kept viewers happy with a range of highly successful young adult fare, including the mega-popular The Summer I Turned Pretty It's also worth mentioning that it hosts possibly the best library of older films of any of the major platforms, while there is also the option to pay an extra monthly fee to sign up to a number of bonus channels – including Mubi, Shudder and BFI Player. Must-watch: The Boys, The Marvellous Mrs Maisel, Fallout, The Girlfriend, Invincible Radio Times says: Prime Video boasts an excellent and varied selection which – coupled with its comparatively low price and added benefits – makes it the best option for those on a budget. Sign up to Amazon Prime Video Apple TV Best for consistently quality original programming Price: £9.99 per month Free trial: Yes – there is a 7 day free trial option Max resolution: 4k Streams: Up to 6 Generally speaking, Apple TV has adopted a mantra of quality over quantity, focusing on star-studded big-budget originals with exceptional production values rather than acquiring a back catalogue of older shows. Launching with major shows such as The Morning Show and For All Mankind, the library has gone on to add everything from hard-hitting dramas and experimental comedies to intelligent sci-fi and riveting spy thrillers – alongside a growing range of documentaries, almost always with a household name attached either in front of or behind the camera. Meanwhile, the streamer has also thrown its weight behind some of the world's most prominent filmmakers to fund their latest features, with movies such as Martin Scorsese's Killers of the Flower Moon, Ridley Scott's Napoleon and Spike Lee's Highest 2 Lowest all available on the streamer. Must-watch: Slow Horses, Severance, Bad Sisters, Silo, The Studio Radio Times says: Although there have been a few misfires, Apple TV maintains a remarkable consistency when it comes to the quality of its original programming – making it a great pick for fans of prestige TV. Sign up to Apple TV DAZN Best for those looking to catch must-watch sporting events – especially boxing Price: £7.99 a month Free trial: Yes – there is a 7 day free trial option Max resolution: 1080p HD Streams: Up to 2 While the likes of Netflix and Prime Video are known to all, this streamer is less of a household name – and is definitely more of a niche addition to the market. The platform is devoted entirely to showcasing high quality sporting action both live and on demand, with a huge range of options including everything from American Football to Cycling and everything in between, as well as a host of high profile boxing bouts. Must-watch: Live boxing Radio Times says: This is a specialist option which will only be of interest to sports fans – but if you're big on boxing it's a must. Sign up to DAZN Disney+ Best for those with kids and fans of major franchises Price: £5.99 for Disney+ Standard with Ads, £9.99 for Disney+ Standard, £14.99 for Disney+ Premium Free trial: No Max resolution: 4k for Premium subscribers, 1080p HD for Standard Streams: Up to 4 for Premium subscribers, up to 2 for Standard Of course, it's no secret that Disney+ is a treasure trove for fans of big franchises, housing a huge catalogue of Marvel and Star Wars content in addition to a number of animated gems from Pixar and Disney Classics. It's that combination that makes it arguably the best option for those looking to keep their kids happy. But it's more than just the franchises. Given streamer's takeover of 20th Century Fox, there are a whole host of excellent films on the platform, while there's also plenty of original programming and some top shows that initially aired on Hulu for US viewers. Must-watch: Star Wars and Marvel, The Bear, Only Murders in the Building, Alien: Earth Radio Times says: If you've got kids and don't mind spending a little extra, this option is hard to resist – and even for older audiences, there is a huge selection to choose from. Sign up to Disney+ Hayu Best for reality TV obsessives Price: £4.99 per month, £23.99 for 6 months or £43.99 for 12 months Free trial: Yes – there is a 7 day free trial option Max resolution: 1080p Streams: One If you're a lover of reality TV, chances are you're already familiar with Hayu – but if this is your first time hearing of it, it could well be the option for you. Since its UK launch in 2016, it's become the only streamer devoted entirely to reality TV and there really are a wealth of programmes waiting for you if that's your thing. Most of the shows are acquisitions rather than originals – with the likes of Below Deck and Vanderpump Rules notable examples – but earlier this year, the platform did launch its first ever original commission: The Real Housewives of London. Could that be the first of many? Must-watch: The Real Housewives, Vanderpump Rules, Below Deck Radio Times says: A must-have if you're a reality TV obsessive, but otherwise probably one to avoid. Sign up to Hayu Sign up to Hayu via Amazon Prime Video ITVX Best for lovers of British TV Price: £5.99 per month or £59.99 per year Free trial: No Max resolution: 1080p HD Streams: Up to 4 You're probably already familiar with the ad-supported free tier of ITVX, which gives audiences to catch-up with all the latest shows broadcast on ITV and some from the archive – but the streamer also has a premium offering, which is one of the cheaper options on the market. As well as allowing subscribers to watch all the content on the regular ITVX without suffering the annoyance of ad breaks, there is also a wealth of material not otherwise available including a huge volume of iconic British box sets from BritBox and an interesting and varied selection of films. Must-watch: Sanditon, Life on Mars, The Vicar of Dibley, Absolutely Fabulous Radio Times says: If you like your TV classic and homegrown – and without ads – this is a great option, for a relatively small monthly fee. Sign up to ITVX Netflix Best for binge-watchers and original hits Best for those looking for value on a budget. Price: £5.99 per month for Standard with ads, £12.99 per month for Standard, £18.99 per month for Premium Free trial: No Max resolution: 4k for Premium subscribers, 1080p HD for Standard Streams: Up to 4 for Premium, up to 2 for Standard The streamer that needs no introduction – and the one that started it all. Netflix produces a wealth of original content – in terms of both films and TV shows – and while perhaps the focus could be said to have shifted towards quantity over quality, there are still some very high highs in the original library. If you want to join in the latest watercooler conversations, this is still probably the one to gravitate towards, with its popularity still dwarfing that of its rivals in relative terms – even as the monthly cost has soared. Meanwhile, a significant catalogue of non-original TV shows and films pads out the platform’s library, so you'll never have a lack of options for your next binge-watch or upcoming movie night. Must-watch: Stranger Things, Bridgerton, Squid Game, The Crown Radio Times says: Netflix remains unbeatable for quantity and global hits, though it comes at a premium price. Sign up to Netflix NOW Best for those looking for the top shows from across the pond Price: £9.99 per month for Entertainment Pass and £9.99 per Cinema Pass Free trial: Yes – there is a 7 day free trial option Max resolution: 720p HD (Full 1080p HD with NOW Boost for an extra £5 a month) Streams: 1 (3 with NOW Boost for an extra £5 a month) NOW is an excellent place to catch the latest dramas from Sky and HBO, while Sky also broadcasts a number of glossy exclusive shows across a range of genres. If you’re a film fan keen to watch the latest blockbusters soon after they leave the cinema, this might also be the service for you. The films included with a Sky Cinema pass frequently include some of the biggest recent hits, and there’s a decent selection of classics as well. One downside is that, unlike most streamers, you have to pay separately for the TV and Movie options – it's not all one package. Must-watch: Game of Thrones, Succession, Euphoria, The White Lotus and The Last of Us. Radio Times says: A more premium offering, but NOW is a great option if you want to enjoy the best of US TV and some of the latest blockbuster films. Sign up to NOW Editor’s Choice So, what is our overall verdict, then? With various factors taken into consideration, we've come to the below conclusion: Best overall value: Prime Video Best originals: Apple TV Best for families: Disney+ Best budget pick: Prime Video Best prestige TV: NOW Add your favourite shows 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 our best movies on Netflix, best Netflix comedies and best Netflix horror movies. Take a look at our best Disney Plus shows guide or best Disney Plus movies. Here are all the best series on Apple TV and best Apple TV movies. Visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what else is on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Love Island rules: What could get contestants removed from the villa?
Here's everything you need to know about the Love Island rules.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the return of Love Island, which premieres across all ITV networks on Monday 3rd June. The 11th season will once again see a group of people who want to find love in the sun battle for first place and the big cash prize. The new cast was announced recently, and it was confirmed that Maya Jama would be returning to host. Iain Stirling will also still be lending his voice to the programme nightly with his witty and sometimes savage commentary. Whilst in the villa in Mallorca, Spain, the islanders will have to adhere to a special set of rules and guidelines, just like they had to do before. Before Love Island kicks off, here's what you need to know about the villa dos and don’ts. Love Island rules 1. No masturbating Solo sexual acts are off limits in the Love Island villa. While contestants are allowed to be intimate with their partners, masturbation is not allowed under any circumstances. 2. No getting drunk Although the islanders are given some alcoholic beverages during their party evenings, contestants aren't allowed to get drunk and are limited to a number of drinks. According to former contestant Kem Cetinay, they're allowed a small glass of wine or beer each night along with their evening meal. 3. No nudity As the villa is a public place, contestants are not allowed to be fully naked in front of others and must be clothed at all times. 4. No inappropriate language, behaviour or physical violence Inappropriate behaviour is at producers' discretion and would include violence and sexual harassment. It could also cover homophobic, racist or aggressive language. 5. No books, phones, magazines We'll see the islanders using phones throughout the season, however, these are special phones used specifically for show purposes, such as for receiving text announcements on new arrivals and challenges. Personal phones are not allowed under any circumstances, and anyone caught sneaking their phone in could be at risk of being removed from the villa. The same goes for books and magazines, with islanders expected to communicate with one another. 6. No discrimination against staff While on the show, the contestants will be looked after by staff who are on set. Any contestant who is rude to the crew could face being axed from the show. Contestants must take instruction from the staff members and must not remove their mic packs unless asked to do so. 7. Follow the contestants' rule book In order to keep their place on the show and not risk being kicked out, islanders must simply obey the rule book they've been provided with. This includes information on safe sex, consent and how to know if you're following the guidelines. By doing this, they should be able to stay out of trouble and enjoy their summer in the villa. View oEmbed on the source website Love Island returns on Monday 3rd June at 9pm on ITV1, ITV2, ITVX, STV and STV Player. Seasons 1-10 are available to watch on ITVX. You can watch all previous seasons of Love Island on BritBox – you can sign up for a 7-day free trial. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what else is on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Will there be The Beast Must Die season 2?
Will Billy Howle be returning as Strangeways?
Detective drama The Beast Must Die first debuted on BritBox in 2021, but now the full season is available to watch for free with ads on ITVX. The show, which stars Billy Howle, Jared Harris and Cush Jumbo, was a hit for now closed down streamer BritBox when it first debuted, and it was quickly announced that a second season was in the works. However, with years having gone by without an update, and some major changes having shaken things up behind the scenes, what is the status of the previously announced second season now? Read on for everything you need to know about the future of The Beast Must Die. Will there be a season 2 of The Beast Must Die? Unfortunately for fans, it seems like there won't be a second season. Back in 2021, after the first season launched on BritBox, it was announced soon after that a second season was already in development. The new season was set to be titled A Sword In My Bones, and was in development with New Regency Television and Ridley Scott's Scott Free. It was said that the show would be leaving the Isle of Wight behind for a "new cinematic setting", and would star the characters from season one – except for Billy Howle's Strangeways. However, since then there have been some major changes behind the scenes, with BritBox closing down and becoming absorbed into ITVX. RadioTimes.com has now had it confirmed from ITV that a second season is not in development for ITVX, meaning it seems unlikely the proposed season 2 will ever see the light of day. What was The Beast Must Die season 2 going to be about? The proposed season 2, which is no longer in development, would have been deviating even further from the Strangeways novels by Nicholas Blake (AKA Cecil Day-Lewis) than season 1. When season 2 was originally announced, it was revealed that, instead of adapting another of the novels, screenwriter Gaby Chiappe had created her own original story, titled A Sword In My Bones. Ed Rubin, Head of New Regency Television International and Marina Brackenbury, Executive Producer, Scott Free UK said: "Harnessing a similar emotional intensity and thriller pulse to season one; A Sword In My Bones will offer up even greater narrative scope, a terrific new cast of characters and a whole new cinematic setting." The Beast Must Die season 2 cast: Who would have been returning? Originally, season 2 was meant to star an entirely new cast of characters – with one exception. BritBox said at the time of the show's renewal, which has subsequently been scrapped, that Billy Howle was "mooted to return to the role of Detective Nigel Strangeways". Howle, whose previous credits include The Serpent and On Chesil Beach, said: "I am thrilled by the reception to The Beast Must Die. A lot of hard work by all the cast and crew went into making the first original drama for BritBox, during a pandemic, and it seems to have paid off. "I would relish the opportunity to take on the role of Strangeways again and am really excited by the prospect of this next chapter.” Will Harrison, BritBox UK MD commented: “We are all immensely proud of our first original, scripted drama and the reception it has received from critics and subscribers alike. We are working closely with our partners at Scott Free and New Regency to explore what may lie in store for Detective Strangeways.” Before the season 1 premiere, Howle himself told RadioTimes.com that he had unfinished business with Strangeways. “I really wrestled with him, with Strangeways – not just in terms of getting into character, but there’s just parts of him that I found incredibly frustrating and stressful,” he said. "It was stressful to be him for however many months we were on the Isle of Wight. “Having said that, at the end of the process, I sort of did feel slightly deflated, perhaps more so than [usual] – because it’s quite common that I do feel a bit deflated at the end of a job. But that’s more to do with the sort of social aspects of working with people. "So I was wondering, why do I feel something sort of irresolute about this? And I was trying to put my finger on what it was, and I realised, you know: what the hell happens to him? I felt a great sense of care towards him… and I sort of thought, wow, is he still that lonely? “And part of my job is sort of convincing myself that – well, no, I guess it’s the whole job really, but convincing myself that I am this lonely figure and all that stuff. So it resonates. And it kind of leaves this residual feeling of irresolution and yeah, it’s still with me now. And I’m still thinking, what happens to Strangeways next?” What The Beast Must Die season 1 about? The official synopsis for the first season said: "The Beast Must Die is a gripping contemporary revenge thriller set on the Isle of Wight. Following the hit and run of a six-year-old boy, his mother (Cush Jumbo OBE) is intent on avenging his death and the only thing keeping her going is the desire to hunt down and kill the man she believes is responsible. "The troubled yet brilliant Detective Strangeways (Howle) has to unpick this web of tragedy and steer a course to justice." The cast for season 1 included Jared Harris, Geraldine James, Nathaniel Parker, Maeve Dermody, Cush Jumbo, Mia Tomlinson, and Barney Sayburn. View Green Video on the source website The Beast Must Die season 1 is available to stream on 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.
BritBox move to ITVX and subscriptions explained: Where can I watch?
The only way you'll be able to watch BritBox as a subscriber is on ITVX from now onwards.
BritBox UK has now been fully absorbed into ITVX, marking the end of the standalone service. BritBox UK was launched in 2019 as a joint venture between the BBC and ITV in a bid to compete with the likes of Netflix and Amazon, with ITV later buying the BBC out of its share in the UK business. When ITVX launched in 2022, all of BritBox's content was absorbed by ITVX Premium, but subscribers were able to continue using the separate app and website. However, BritBox was revealed to be shutting down in early February. ITV's CEO, Carolyn McCall, said at the time that the move comes as part of ITV's plans to streamline its services. "In 2024, the BritBox UK service on Amazon Prime Video Channels and the BritBox UK standalone app will close as we further simplify our offering," McCall said. "This will consolidate all our subscribers under one ITVX Premium brand and will give us complete ownership of the subscriber base," she added. "The closure of these services is expected to impact subscriber numbers and subscription revenues in 2024." With all the changes going on, subscribers may be wondering just how exactly they can watch BritBox content. Read on for everything you need to know. How can I watch BritBox? The only way you’ll be able to watch BritBox as a subscriber is on ITVX from now onwards. Your BritBox subscription will have automatically been switched over to an ITVX Premium subscription, where you'll have access to the full ad-free library of BritBox content. To start watching, you need to sign into ITVX or set up a new password if you're new to ITVX. Will the BritBox price remain the same? Yes, ITV has confirmed that the price – £5.99 per month or £59.99 per year – will remain the same. Read more: The best TV shows on BritBox to watch now 7 BritBox Originals you don’t want to miss Visit our Drama hub or find something to watch now with our TV Guide and Streaming Guide. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Sanditon season 3: UK Release date, cast, trailer and latest news
The BritBox and PBS adaptation of Jane Austen's unfinished novel Sanditon is returning for its third and final season.
*Warning: spoilers ahead for Sanditon seasons 1 & 2* UK fans have had a lengthy wait for season 3 of Sanditon - but finally, we're almost there. And as the first-look images indicate, it's set to be one hell of a final chapter, with "more grand parties, wise and outspoken women, and lovely friendships that stand the test of time and circumstances". You can also expect "many surprises", including "astonishing new alliances, ghosts from the past, and all the complications of love and life". So, without further ado, read on for everything you need to know about what's to come for the Sanditon cast in season 3. Sanditon season 3 release date: When will it air? Sanditon season 3 arrives in the UK on Thursday 17th August on ITVX. The show was renewed for both a second and third season following solid campaigning from fans after the series was initially cancelled. Sanditon season 3 cast: Who stars? View Green Video on the source website Season 3 will see returning familiar faces and new characters alike. The full cast list is as follows. Rose Williams as Charlotte Heywood Crystal Clarke as Georgiana Lambe Anne Reid as Lady Denham Kris Marshall as Tom Parker Kate Ashfield as Mary Parker Jack Fox as Sir Edward Denham Lily Sacofsky as Clara Brereton Rosie Graham as Alison Heywood Sophie Winkleman as Lady Susan Ben Lloyd-Hughes as Alexander Colbourne Alexander Vlahos as Charles Lockhart Frank Blake as Captain Declan Fraser Maxim Ays as Captain William Carter Cal Brigden as Ralph Starling Flora Mitchell as Leonora Colbourne Eloise Webb as Augusta Markham Emma Fielding as Lady Montrose Alice Orr-Ewing as Lydia Edward Davis as Lord Henry Montrose James Bolam as Rowleigh Pryce Liam Garrigan as Samuel Colbourne Sanditon season 3 plot: What will happen? "Charlotte returns to Sanditon with her fiancé in tow but is forced to come to terms with her unresolved feelings for Colbourne," reads the official synopsis. "He, devastated, tries to move on and open his heart to another, but as they keep getting drawn together – can they keep on ignoring their feelings? "Georgiana is horrified to discover a claim on her newfound inheritance. With the help of Samuel Colbourne, she battles in court to keep what is hers. The public attention and scrutiny sends her spiralling and she seems to be out of control. "What she needs is a fiancé to send the circling fortune hunters away. What she gets is so much more. "Edward, meanwhile, has promised Lady Denham he is truly reformed, but will Augusta Markham's fortune be too an irresistible a proposition? "Lady Denham rediscovers an old flame from her youth, and together they back Tom's new plans for Sanditon – at the expense of his marriage with Mary (Kate Ashfield), and then she falls gravely ill... "With weddings and failed engagements, will the Sanditon residents all find true love and happiness after all?" Is there a trailer for Sanditon season 3? There is! Masterpiece CBS released a trailer for the anticipated third season at the beginning of March and it promises to be a positively explosive final season. Watch it below. View oEmbed 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. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10, PLUS a £10 John Lewis and Partners voucher delivered to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Staged season 3: Release date, cast and latest news
The third season of the David Tennant and Michael Sheen comedy is now coming to BBC One.
Good Omens stars David Tennant and Michael Sheen returned for a third season of their comedy series Staged last year, although some fans missed out on the new episodes. This is because for the first time the series moved from its original BBC home to BritBox - however, that is now all about to change. Season 3 is now coming to BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with creator Simon Evans continuing to keep audiences on their toes with twists a-plenty and cameos galore. Evans has also spoken with RadioTimes.com about the possibility for a fourth season, but for now, when is season 3 arriving for BBC viewers, what is it about and who is in the cast? Read on for everything you need to know about Staged season 3. Staged season 3 release date Staged season 3 was first released on BritBox on Thursday 24th November 2022, marking the first time the show had released a new season on that platform, rather than on the BBC. However, the new season is now finally also coming to BBC One, with the first two episodes airing back to back from 10:40pm on Wednesday 14th June. Two more episodes will then air each Wednesday. But if you can't wait for the weekly releases, don't worry - season 3 is available to watch in full right now on BBC iPlayer. What is Staged about? The lockdown comedy originally focussed on Sheen and Tennant, playing exaggerated versions of themselves and rehearsing a play over Zoom calls. However, season two saw that premise upended (which you can read about in our four-star Staged season two review), as the two actors openly discuss Staged and reveal that it was all fiction. Keen to move on to 'real' acting work, they're nonetheless frustrated when they learn that there's going to be a US remake of Staged with a different cast. The new third season similarly sees some surprising twists along the way - although we of course won't reveal them here. The synopsis for the first episode of the third season says: "David and Michael talk on a video call, initially over footage of Wales in the run-up to Christmas. David tells Michael he wants to do something new. "We discover that he is in Tokyo to film an advert for cream cheese. David’s stuck in an airport at a loose end, and his demands for attention are aggravating Michael." Staged cast - who is back for season 3? The cast for season 3 is once again led by Good Omens co-stars Michael Sheen and David Tennant alongside their respective partners, Anna Lundberg and Georgia Tennant, as well as series creator Simon Evans and his sister Lucy Eaton. There are also plenty more surprise cameos in store for the new season, although you'll have to watch the episodes to find out who pops up. Previous seasons have included appearances from the likes of Dame Judi Dench, Whoopi Goldberg, Sir Michael Palin, and Samuel L Jackson. View Green Video on the source website Staged season 3 is now available on BBC iPlayer. Check out more of our Comedy coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Take part in the Screen Test, a project from Radio Times and the Universities of Sussex and Brighton, to explore the role of television and audio in our lives. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
David Tennant and Michael Sheen lead a star-studded cast in the comedy series, which has aired on both BritBox and BBC One.
The third season of David Tennant and Michael Sheen's comedy series Staged originally arrived exclusively on BritBox in late 2022, but is now hitting BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The new season now finds the fictional versions of Tennant and Sheen out of lockdown and living their everyday lives, but Simon Evans, the show's real-life creator, is still trying to get them involved in another project - despite the duo having made clear they want nothing more to do with him. The second season of the show took quite the turn for meta, when it was revealed that the first season of the show was now being treated as a fictional series inside the show itself, and the surprise twists continue to add up in season 3. But alongside Tennant, Sheen and Evans, who else stars in the series? Read on for everything you need to know about the main cast and characters of BBC One comedy Staged. Meet the cast of Staged season 3 David Tennant plays David Who is David? An exaggerated version of Tennant himself, Staged's David Tennant is affable but a bit slobbish, dressing in the same grey hoodie every day and struggling to cook anything other than his wife Georgia's frozen lasagna. At the start of season 3 he's now out of lockdown and getting on with his everyday life, but Simon plans to rope both him and Michael in to do one more project together. Where have I seen David Tennant before? The film, television and stage actor is best-known for his role as The Tenth (and now Fourteenth) Doctor in Doctor Who, but is also known for playing Crowley in Amazon's Good Omens adaptation, alongside Michael Sheen. He's previously starred in numerous projects, including Broadchurch (as DI Alex Hardy), Deadwater Fell, Netflix's Criminal, Casanova, Jessica Jones (as Kilgrave), the film Mary Queen of Scots, Inside Man, The Sandman, Litvinenko and There She Goes. Michael Sheen plays Michael Who is Michael? An exaggerated version of the real-life Michael Sheen, the show portrays him as grumpy and paranoid. He must be coaxed by Tennant (the director Simon is too scared of Sheen) before he commits to the remote rehearsals that they plan to do via Zoom in season 1. In season 3 he is now out of lockdown, but like David wants to avoid being drawn back into another project with Simon. Where have I seen Michael Sheen before? Sheen is perhaps best known for his uncanny talent at playing real-life people, whether in ITV's Quiz (as Chris Tarrant), Frost/Nixon (as David Frost), The Queen (as Tony Blair) or upcoming Channel 4 series Vardy v Rooney. He's also starred in the likes of Midnight in Paris, The Good Fight, Masters of Sex, The Sandman, Good Omens, Last Train to Christmas and Best Interests. Georgia Tennant plays Georgia Who is Georgia? A fictional version of the real-life Georgia Tennant, she's far more savvy and organised than her husband, as in season 1 she managed to raise and homeschool five children alongside completing a novel and agreeing to be a birth partner for her pregnant friend. In previous seasons she encouraged David to take part in remote rehearsals with Simon, as he becomes stir-crazy when left to his own devices. Where have I seen Georgia Tennant before? Tennant (née Moffett) first starred alongside her husband David in Doctor Who back in 2008, when she played the Doctor's adult daughter. She's also starred in the likes of Casualty, My Family, Merlin, White Van Man, Holby City, In The Dark, The Sandman and The Horne Section. Anna Lundberg plays Anna Who is Anna? A version of the real-life Anna Lundberg, we've previously seen her living out lockdown with her new baby and partner, Michael Sheen. Similarly to Georgia, in season 1 she encouraged Michael to take part in the Zoom rehearsals for their West End play. Where have I seen Anna Lundberg before? Alongside Staged, Lundberg has also appeared in The Last Train to Christmas and The Sandman with Michael. Simon Evans plays Simon Who is Simon? The (borderline inept) director of the West End play that both David Tennant and Michael Sheen were cast in, and were about to start rehearsing before lockdown. In the meta season 2 we found out he had been the writer of Staged season 1, a fictional show in this universe now, and was trying to get the group back together. Where have I seen Simon Evans before? The actor, writer and director created and stars in Staged. He's previously starred in Stig of the Dump, Lewis, Crisis, and John Carter. Lucy Eaton plays Lucy Who is Lucy? A fictional version of the real-life Lucy Eaton, who turns out to be far more cultured than her brother, Simon. In season 1 we found out she read Ulysses "twice", and Michael was flattered when she revealed that she also saw his on-stage version of Hamlet several times – unlike Simon. Where have I seen Lucy Eaton before? The stage and screen actress has previously starred in several shorts and the TV series Murder Maps. Staged season 2 cast Ben Schwartz plays Tom Who is Tom? Introduced in season 2, Tom is the inept (and fictitious) assistant to Michael's Hollywood agent. He caused him to miss out on roles in several high profile films, including Tenet. Where have I seen Ben Schwartz before? The comic actor is best known for playing Jean-Ralphio in the comedy TV series Parks and Recreation. He's also starred in Space Force and Sonic the Hedgehog. Nina Sosanya plays Jo Who is Jo? Jo is the "money" behind Simon's play, and is more than a little intimidating – she's even got her assistant staying in her house with her under lockdown. Where have I seen Nina Sosanya before? The actress is perhaps best known for her roles in Last Tango in Halifax (as Kate), the spoof Olympics comedy Twenty Twelve, W1A, Killing Eve (as Jess), and Love Actually (as Annie). She's also starred in Women on the Verge, Silk (as Kate Brockman), Marcella (as DCI Laura Porter), and as Will's mother Elaine Parry in the BBC/HBO adaptation of His Dark Materials. She's also co-starred opposite both David Tennant and Michael Sheen before, having played Sister Mary Loquacious in Good Omens. View Green Video on the source website Staged season 3 is now available on BBC iPlayer. Check out more of our Comedy coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Take part in the Screen Test, a project from Radio Times and the Universities of Sussex and Brighton, to explore the role of television and audio in our lives. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Meet the cast of Why Didn't They Ask Evans?
Will Poulter leads a star-studded cast for the Agatha Christie series.
Hugh Laurie's drama series Why Didn't They Ask Evans? may have premiered exclusively on BritBox in April 2022, but it has now landed on ITV1 and ITVX - and hooked fans in with its thrilling tale of murder and betrayal. Based on the 1934 novel of the same name, Why Didn't They Ask Evans? boasts an all-star cast led by Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 star Will Poulter as Bobby Jones, a vicar's son who begins investigating the death of a man who, with his dying breath, asks the mysterious titular question. Poulter is joined by The Ipcress File's Lucy Boynton as Bobby's ally Frankie, as well as Jim Broadbent and Emma Thompson, who play Frankie's aristocrat parents Lord and Lady Marcham. But who else stars in the series and who do they all play? Here's everything you need to know about the cast of Why Didn't They Ask Evans?. Why Didn't They Ask Evans? cast Lucy Boynton plays Frankie Derwent Who is Frankie? Frankie is an upperclass, clever and unflappable young woman with a flair for adventure. She is an old friend of Bobby's and a key ally in solving the mystery. Where have I seen Lucy Boynton before? Boynton is perhaps best known for her roles in Sing Street and Freddie Mercury biopic Bohemian Rhapsody, and has also had main roles in Netflix's The Politician and ITV's The Ipcress File. Jonathan Jules plays Ralph 'Knocker' Beadon Who is Knocker? Knocker is Bobby's old shipmate turned business partner at a garage for second-hand cars. He finds himself roped into solving the mystery with Bobby and Frankie. Where have I seen Jonathan Jules before? Jules has appeared in Stephen Merchant's Fighting with My Family and in Small Axe episode Alex Wheatle, in which he played Dennis Isaacs. Will Poulter plays Bobby Jones Who is Bobby? Bobby is a former naval officer who now plays the organ at the church where his father is reverend and is setting up a garage for second-hand cars with his friend Knocker. When he finds a dying man near where he is playing golf, it sets him off on a journey to uncover how he died and just what his last words - "why didn't they ask Evans?" - mean. Where have I seen Will Poulter before? Poulter has made quite the name for himself in Hollywood after he broke out as Eustace Scrubb in The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. The star has had central roles in We're The Millers, The Revenant and Midsommar, while his TV appearances have included Black Mirror: Bandersnatch and Dopesick. He is set to make his Marvel debut as Adam Warlock in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Conleth Hill plays Dr Alwyn Thomas Who is Dr Thomas? Dr Thomas is Bobby's golfing partner and mentor, who is with him when he finds the dying man at the start of the series. Where have I seen Conleth Hill before? Hill is best known for his role as Varys, Master of Whisperers in Game of Thrones. He has also appeared in Inside No. 9, Dublin Murders and ITV's adaptation of Graham Norton's book Holding. Holding's Conleth Hill: "This is the best role I've ever had - including Game of Thrones' Varys" Maeve Dermody plays Moira Nicholson Who is Moira? Moira is the wife of Dr James Nicholson. Bobby takes a shine to her and feels a need to protect her. Where have I seen Maeve Dermody before? Dermody is no stranger to Agatha Christie adaptations, having previously starred in the BBC's And Then There Were None. She's also known for her roles in Carnival Row, The Beast Must Die and Marcella. Daniel Ings plays Roger Bassington-ffrench Who is Roger? Roger is a passer-by called on by Bobby to stay with the dead man at the start of the series, as he has to get to church. Bobby later believes that tracking him down will be key to solving the mystery. Where have I seen Daniel Ings before? Ings had a leading role in Netflix's Lovesick and played Commander Mike Parker in The Crown. He has also had film roles including in Eddie the Eagle and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides. Hugh Laurie plays Dr James Nicholson Who is Dr Nicholson? Dr Nicholson is Moira's husband, and is the mysterious owner of a sanatorium near Merroway Court, where the Bassington-ffrench's live. Where have I seen Hugh Laurie before? Laurie first gained prominence for his comedy partnership with Stephen Fry, and later went on to star in House, Veep and The Night Manager, amongst many other high profile roles. He is pulling triple duty here, as he also acts as writer/director on the series. Jim Broadbent plays Lord Marcham Who is Lord Marcham? Lord Marcham is Frankie's father. Where have I seen Jim Broadbent before? Broadbent is an Oscar winning actor known for his roles in Only Fools and Horses, Hot Fuzz and the Harry Potter series. He has also appeared in Game of Thrones, Paddington and many other high profile series and films. Dame Emma Thompson plays Lady Marcham Who is Lady Marcham? Lady Marcham is Frankie's mother. Where have I seen Dame Emma Thompson before? Thompson is an Oscar winning actress known for her roles in the Harry Potter film series, Love Actually and Sense and Sensibility. Her TV roles include a recent starring appearance in Russell T Davies' dystopian drama Years and Years. Miles Jupp as Henry Bassington-ffrench Who is Henry? Henry is Roger's brother who Frankie comes across during the investigation. Where have I seen Miles Jupp before? Jupp is a mainstay of TV and radio panel shows, while he has also acted in The Thick of It, Rev and A Very British Scandal. His recent films include Journey's End, Greed and Misbehaviour. Amy Nuttall as Sylvia Bassington-ffrench Who is Sylvia? Sylvia is the American wife of Henry and Roger's sister-in-law. Where have I seen Amy Nuttall before? Nuttall is best known for her roles on Emmerdale and Downton Abbey, and recently appeared in Channel 5's All Creatures Great and Small. Alistair Petrie as Reverend Richard Jones Who is Reverend Jones? Reverend Jones is Bobby's father, a reverend who wants the best for his son but is occasionally frustrated by his tendency to choose loyalty over ambition and security. Where have I seen Alistair Petrie before? Petrie has appeared in array of series including Sherlock, Sex Education and The Night Manager, while his film roles include Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Cloud Atlas. Paul Whitehouse as The Landlord Who is The Landlord? The Landlord does what he says on the tin - he's a pub landlord that Bobby meets during his investigation, who may hold the key to unravelling some of the head-scratching mystery. Where have I seen Paul Whitehouse before? Whitehouse is known for his comedy team ups with Harry Enfield and Bob Mortimer, while on film he's appeared in Armando Iannucci's The Death of Stalin and The Personal History of David Copperfield. View Green Video on the source website Why Didn't They Ask Evans? starts on Sunday 9th April at 9pm on ITV1, while the full series is available to watch on BritBox now – you can sign up for a 7-day free trial here. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to see what's on tonight. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Why Didn't They Ask Evans?: Release date, cast, trailer and latest news
Hugh Laurie's adaption of the 1934 Agatha Christie novel is coming to ITV1 and ITXX this weekend.
Hugh Laurie's drama series Why Didn't They Ask Evans? may have premiered exclusively on BritBox in April 2022, but is making its way to ITV1 and ITVX this weekend. What could be better for this upcoming Easter weekend than sitting back on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday evening for a dose of Agatha Christie sleuthing? Nothing, we say. The drama not only stars The Revenant's Will Poulter and Sing Street's Lucy Boynton, it also features an array of British acting talent, including cameo appearances from Dame Emma Thompson and Jim Broadbent. Adapted from Agatha Christie's 1934 novel of the same name, Poulter plays young naval officer Bobby Jones, a vicar's son who begins investigating the death of a man who asks the mysterious titular question with his dying breath. Meanwhile, Boynton plays his childhood friend Lady Frances 'Frankie' Derwent, "a clever and unflappable young woman with a flair for adventure" who teams up with Bobby to help decipher the titular question. The synopsis for the three-part series reads: "A man lies dying at the foot of a cliff, apparently the victim of an accidental fall; with his final breath, he utters the mysterious question of the title and promptly expires. "Some people - perhaps most people - might shrug at the impenetrable oddness of the words and move on with their lives. But Bobby Jones and his childhood friend, Lady Frances 'Frankie' Derwent, are not most people. "They resolve to honour the dead man by deciphering, and then answering, his final question. In so doing, they hit upon a dark conspiracy of deceit, betrayal and - perhaps unsurprisingly - murder." Read on for everything you need to know about Why Didn't They Ask Evans?. When is the Why Didn't They Ask Evans? release date? The series, which is made up of three episodes, debuted on BritBox on 14th April 2022 but is airing on ITV1 and ITVX this weekend on Sunday 9th April 2023 at 9pm. It will air across three consecutive nights, with the second episode airing on Monday 10th, and the third and final episode airing on Tuesday 11th. That means there isn't long to wait before you can get your Agatha Christie fix and learn the truth about that perplexing titular question. However, while you do wait, you can check out this exclusive, thrilling preview clip for RadioTimes.com. Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? review: Hugh Laurie’s all-star caper is a delight Why Didn't They Ask Evans? cast In addition to Will Poulter and Lucy Boynton in the lead roles of Bobby and Frankie, the stellar cast also includes Game of Thrones star Conleth Hill as Bobby's mentor Dr Thomas, and I Hate Suzie's Daniel Ings as Roger Bassington-ffrench. Maeve Dermody plays Moira, and is no stranger to Christie roles having starred in the BBC's adaptation of And Then There Were None. Meanwhile, Small Axe's Jonathan Jules plays Bobby's old shipmate and business partner Ralph 'Knocker' Beadon. The murder mystery series' cast is rounded out by The Durrells star Miles Jupp (Henry Bassington-ffrench), Downton Abbey's Amy Nuttall (Sylvia Basington-ffrench), Sex Education's Alistair Petrie (Reverend Richard Jones), The Death of Stalin's Paul Whitehouse (Mr Askew), Breeders' Morwenna Banks (Mrs Cayman), Richard Dixon (Mr Cayman) and Black Mirror's Joshua James (Dr George Arbuthnot). In addition to directing, Hugh Laurie will also portray Dr Nicholson, the clinical director of the local sanatorium. View Green Video on the source website Is there a Why Didn't They Ask Evans? trailer? There is, and you can watch it right here now! View oEmbed on the source website And to mark the upcoming ITV release, there's also another tense trailer to get excited over, which can be watched below: View oEmbed on the source website Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? review: Hugh Laurie’s all-star caper is a delight Why Didn't They Ask Evans? airs on ITV1 and ITVX on Sunday 9th April at 9pm. Check out our Drama hub for more news, interviews and features or find something to watch with our TV Guide. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Where is Magpie Murders filmed? Location guide for BBC drama
The former BritBox original is getting a second chance.
Magpie Murders is moving from its original home on BritBox over to the BBC, which means that a load more people are about to discover its clever and compelling mystery. The unconventional series is actually two stories in one, following 1950s book editor Susan Ryeland (The Crown's Lesley Manville) as she looks into the untimely death of one of her regular collaborators: author Alan Conway (Conleth Hill). Meanwhile, the series also gives us a look at the fictional mystery that Alan was writing before his demise, which could very well offer some clues about what happened to him. The series, which has already been renewed for a second season, is set primarily in London and Suffolk, but it may surprise viewers to learn that filming took place somewhere else entirely. Director Peter Cattaneo has explained that much of Magpie Murders was filmed in Dublin, with the Irish capital posing as other locations in the show. "That was a given when I signed on, just for economic reasons, really," he said. "It's a more economical place to shoot." Cattaneo continued: "It's a complete mix up of Dublin, real Suffolk for a bit and a tiny bit of real London – just establishing shots of the cars driving around Liverpool Street Station. "So it was about just creating those two very distinctive worlds." The distinctive house which is a crucial location throughout the series was found "just outside" of the Irish capital, with producer Jill Green revealing that the derelict property was once owned by Guinness. The production also travelled out to Bloomsbury in County Meath, with Green explaining it was perfect for their needs "because there is a lot of Edwardian architecture in those squares". While the series was mostly filmed in Ireland, those familiar with Suffolk will be pleased to see that the East Anglian county does appear in some scenes, with Green describing the discovery of small village named Kersey as a "real turning point". Green added: "To actually find a whole village where about 400 people lived, where they all agreed to let us film and some of them were in it as well, was a really massive turning point for the show and it's an extraordinary outcome I think." Of course, shooting a period drama on location naturally throws up some complications, with Cattaneo recalling that getting all the modern cars off the street was a major hurdle to overcome. "We got in with the pub and the church and once we got those two on side it seemed to spread to the whole village," he revealed. In addition to Manville, Magpie Murders also stars Daniel Mays (Code 404), Tim McMullan (The Serpent) and Conleth Hill (Vienna Blood). View Green Video on the source website Magpie Murders begins on BBC One at 9:15pm on Saturday 1st April. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide to see what's on tonight. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Who left Love Island last night? All the dumped contestants from season 9
Yet another contestant was dumped in last night's show.
Although only a few of the Casa Amor crowd got coupled up with to stay in the main villa, it's been a swift exit for one. After coming back into the villa with Tanya Manhenga, it hasn't been plain sailing for Martin Akinola, who entered the villa with Tanya and got into a fiery argument with her after calling her a "liar". The dramatic recent recoupling in last night's episode saw new bombshells Rosie Seabrook and Keanan Brand make the first picks, but Tanya was left to pick between Shaq Muhammad and Martin, who she previously had a great time with in Casa Amor. So, who left Love Island last night? And have the new bombshells shaken up the strongest of couples? These are the big questions, of course, especially if you didn't manage to tune in for yourself. Read on for everything you need to know about this year's dumped islanders from the Love Island 2023 cast. Who left Love Island last night? All the dumped season 9 contestants Martin Akinola - DUMPED in episode 40 Last night's episode provided even more dramatic fallout from the week's Movie Night, which saw the islanders faced with the reality of their Casa Amor antics. But one islander who was unaffected by it all was Martin, who had reached "mutual ground" with Tanya and called things off between them. The pair had not only had multiple awkward conversations throughout the week, but were also left arguing across the villa after Martin called Tanya a "liar". So, it was obvious that Tanya wasn't going to recouple with Martin. Choosing Shaq instead and with Martin as the only single islander left, he exited the villa, stating that he has nothing to hold against Tanya and forgives her. Sammy James, Lynda Flix, Cynthia Otseh-Taiwo, Lydia Karakyriakou, Layla Al-Momani, Ryan Weekley, Frankie Davey, Kain Reed and Bayley Mummery - DUMPED in episode 33 View Gallery on the source website Last night's episode saw the great Casa Amor experiment come to an end for another season, with a whopping nine islanders sent packing as the invasion of new faces reached its bitter conclusion. From the girls side of the competition, we saw Sammy James, Lynda Flix, Cynthia Otseh-Taiwo, Lydia Karakyriakou and Layla Al-Momani sent home. And from the boys side, it was Ryan Weekley, Frankie Davey, Kain Reed and Bayley Mummery who said goodbye to the villa and their chances of winning. If you're struggling to remember who any of those people are, we've included all their official photos in the gallery above. Ellie Spence and Jordan Odofin - DUMPED in episode 26 Ellie Spencer and Jordan Odofin were the latest islanders to be dumped from the villa in last night's show (Friday 10th February) after a surprise public vote. Viewers were given the chance to vote for their favourite couple on Thursday night and while Tom Clare, Samie Elishi, Olivia Hawkins and Kai Fagan were also up for elimination, it was Ellie and Jordan who received the fewest votes as a couple. Speaking about their Love Island experiences, Ellie said she thought she was "just about to find" her husband, so was "sad to be leaving". "But it was an amazing experience," she added, while Jordan said: "Similar to Ellie, I was trying to find a wife but you know, I enjoyed my time in the villa. All good things must come to an end, so I'm excited to see what's out there for me." Tanyel Revan - DUMPED in episode 25 Tanyel Revan was dumped from the island in episode 25 following a recoupling. Jordan Odofin was the last person to pick and decided to couple up with Ellie Spence, who he currently has a "platonic" relationship with. But a future with her isn't out of the question. Speaking about her Love Island experience, Tanyel said: "I’m so glad I did it. I have no regrets. It’s made me realise how direct and honest I am. If I’ve got an issue, I’ll just say it straight." Spencer Wilks and Aaron Waters - DUMPED in episode 21 After the girls deliberated, it was decided that Spencer Wilks and Aaron Waters would be going home. While Spencer had just started getting to know Tanyel Revan, it was felt by the group that Kai Fagan had a stronger connection with Olivia Hawkins, so needed to stay in the villa to explore this. "It’s a shame, me and Tanyel had just started to get to know each other. I’m sad to leave everyone but I made some good friends and met some amazing people but I didn’t find love," Spencer said following his exit. While Spencer made a recent connection, the same couldn't be said for Aaron. So, was he sad to go? "It’s bittersweet, I didn’t have any sparks in there with anyone so I was kind of ready for it but at the same time, I still had high hopes and a positive attitude," he said. "I don’t regret anything, I think I was myself the whole way through. When one door closes another one opens. I’m excited." Zara Deniz Lackenby-Brown - DUMPED in episode 17 Zara Deniz Lackenby-Brown left the villa in episode 17 after a recoupling, which saw Tom picking Ellie instead of her. Zara and Tom had been in a couple, but they called things off after a game in which Tom revealed his ideal woman would have Olivia Hawkins's face, and Zara's body - a comment Z didn't take kindly to. The pair seemed like they were amicable – that is, until Tom kissed Ellie on the terrace after telling Liv he wanted to explore things with her. After finding this out, Zara broke the news to Olivia and also went off on Tom for kissing a girl the same day after ending things with her. Upon her exit, Zara opened up about her and Tom's split, saying: "I genuinely think me and Tom calling it a day was the best thing that we could have done because we weren’t ever actually on the same page. Like a flame, we burned quick, and it was just more physical attraction. The fact we weren’t each other's types intrigued us to try and make a go of it, but ultimately it didn’t work out." Anna-May Robey and Haris Namani - DUMPED in episode 10 Anna-May Robey and Haris Namani were dumped from the island in episode 10. Speaking of her exit, Anna-May said: "I had such an incredible time, I’ve made really good memories and friends that will last a lifetime. It’s definitely something I would do again, I have no regrets because I’ve had the best 10 days of my life! "It's an experience that not many people get so you can’t take that for granted; I’m really grateful." Following the dumping, Love Island’s Haris responded to an unearthed video of him involved in a fist fight, saying "it's not a reflection" of his character. "I’m devastated that this video has been seen," he explained. "I’m not someone that goes looking for fights and I didn’t want to be in that situation. This was a heat of the moment thing." David Salako - DUMPED in episode 5 David, a money adviser from Essex, had promised to bring “nothing but good fun, vibes” to the villa, but unfortunately was dumped in the show’s first elimination before he really got the chance... Talking after his exit, David admitted he thought that Tanya, who he'd been trying to impress, would have picked him over Shaq. He said: "Me and Tanya did have a good bond. We just found it easy to have a conversation with each other. But maybe that’s all it was between us, just good conversation." He also had advice for the remaining Islanders, adding: "I feel like people need to be a bit more confident with how they feel. People are scared of hurting other people’s feelings, which is obviously OK. No-one wants to hurt anyone’s feelings. But you’ve just got to be a bit selfish in there." View Green Video on the source website Previous seasons of Love Island are available on BritBox – you can sign up for a 7-day free trial. Love Island airs on ITV2 and ITVX at 9pm. If you're looking for something to watch, check out our TV Guide or Streaming Guide. Visit our Entertainment hub for all the latest news. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Who is Shaq Muhammad? Meet Love Island's airport security man
Who is the London-based airport security officer?
Winter Love Island 2023 is upon us, and it certainly isn't lacking on the drama front, with the brand new cast continually causing chaos. Last night's episode saw Tanya Manhenga ruffle a number of feathers as she declared her love once again for Shaq Muhammed in front of the whole villa. Tanya had been coupled up with Shaq from day one, when the new singletons were welcomed by Maya Jama to the South African villa, but had her head turned in Casa Amor and chose to couple up with Martin Akinola. However, last night (Monday 20th February), Tanya's head swivelled once again as she set her sights back on Shaq and ended things with Martin. While Martin appeared to take the news well, it looks like things are about to get heated in tonight's episode (Tuesday 21st February) as Martin rants at Tanya. In a first-look clip released by ITV, Martin is seen saying: "Tanya, I mean, what the f**k. You're a liar, you're not sincere, you made me look like I was dumb." Tanya is seen later walking towards him saying: "One thing you're not gonna do, is call me a liar". View oEmbed on the source website Ahead of joining the show, Shaq, an airport security officer, was described as the "talk of the terminal". But what else do we know about him so far? Read on to find out. Here is everything you need to know about Shaq Muhammad ahead of the start of winter Love Island 2023. Shaq Muhammad - key facts Age: 24 Job: Airport security officer Instagram: @shaq24s_ Why did Shaq Muhammad want to take part in Love Island? View oEmbed on the source website Ahead of entering Love Island, Shaq said his reasons for going on the show were that he hasn't "had the best luck with previous relationships", adding: "So I thought, why not be in the sun and potentially meet the love of my life?" He continued: "Hopefully I do come out with my future wife. The person I hope to marry one day. Hopefully she’s in the Villa." Is Shaq Muhammad on Instagram? He is! You can find Shaq on Instagram, where he currently has over 1,800 followers, at @shaq24s_. What is Shaq Muhammad looking for in a partner? Shaq didn't say what he's looking for in a partner ahead of joining the show, but he did admit that his family and friends would say he's quick to fall in love. He explained: "I’m the type of person that wears my heart on my sleeve. If I find someone I click with, I fall very hard, very fast. Sometimes that can be a bad thing. I’m a very emotional person. It can be a blessing and a curse." He also revealed a particular love for a surprising romantic film - 2010's Dear John starring Channing Tatum and Amanda Seyfried. Shaq said: "Every time I watch Dear John I cry. That’s my favourite film. Any time I’m with someone and they say, ‘Let’s watch a romantic film’, I’m like, ‘How about Dear John, how does that sound?’" View Green Video on the source website Love Island airs on ITV2 and ITVX at 9pm. Previous seasons of Love Island are available on BritBox now - you can sign up for a 7-day free trial here. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Who is Spencer Wilks? Meet Love Island 2023 contestant and business owner
The 24-year-old Belieber is hoping to find his Baby (Baby, Baby) in the Love Island villa.
We're approaching the end of Love Island 2023's second week and so far, we've had a fortnight of firepit chats, tense tiffs and surprisingly recouplings – and yesterday's episode was no exception. Last night, two brand new bombshells entered the villa – Ellie Spence and Spencer Wilks – and neither of them were afraid to start grafting. With the two newcomers getting first pick at the recoupling, Ellie made a rival of Lana Jenkins after choosing the easily-swayed Ron Hall, while Spencer went for Olivia Hawkins, who had previously worried about her status in the villa after Haris Naman's exit and Tom Clare leaning towards Zara Deniz Lackenby-Brown. However, with the tally of dumped islanders growing as the days go on, we'll have to see whether the Justin Bieber-loving 24-year-old can make a strong-enough connection to stay in the villa. Read on for everything you need to know about Spencer as he adjusts to villa life. View Green Video on the source website Spencer Wilks – key facts Age: 24 Job: E-Commerce Business Owner Instagram: @spennywilks From: Bournemouth Coupled up with: Olivia Hawkins Bournemouth-based business owner Spencer Wilks is hoping to bring lots of cuddles to the Love Island villa, describing himself as "very loving". "I like doing stuff for other people. I’m excited all the time really. I do say the wrong things as I have no filter. If I think it, I’ll say it straight away," he said. "Sometimes it’s great, sometimes it’s not. Sometimes it stirs things up a bit which I find funny." His family and friends would describe him as "loud, outgoing and chatty" and when it comes to romantic relationships, he can fall in love "pretty quickly". "I get head over heels pretty quick if I find someone [and] I think, ‘Wow, you’re ticking my boxes.’" If there's villa karaoke at some point, the islanders better watch out – Spencer says he's a "full Belieber" (a huge fan of Justin Bieber). Hopefully there'll be One Less Lonely Girl with Spencer's arrival on the show. What is Spencer's business? E-commerce business owner Spencer is director of a vibrator business – this was revealed in the 26th January edition of Love Island, much to Olivia's delight. Why did Spencer want to take part in Love Island? The 24-year-old signed up for Love Island to take himself out of his comfort zone with a "great experience". "Maybe I’ll find someone that I could be with forever and to share that experience with someone I think is quite unique," he said. "This is the only time I’ve been single, so it’s now or never really." As for why he's still single, Spencer said that he just hasn't found the one yet. "I'm quite picky and very particular with the person I want to be with in a relationship, so I’m still just waiting." Is Spencer on Instagram? If you were hoping to do an internet stalk of Spencer, then you're in luck – he is on the gram at @spennywilks. The business owner currently boasts 5,000 followers, although that total is likely to go up thanks to his appearance on Love Island. His photos are mostly holiday and festival snaps, including a lot of pool shots – so he'll fit right in over in the South African villa. What is Spencer looking for in a partner? While Spencer hasn't revealed what he looks for in a partner, he has revealed his turn offs. "I don’t like picking one thing that would put me off someone. But I would say, being fake, I really don’t like that and it gets under my skin. When a girl’s b****y, that for me is just not a vibe." Meanwhile, his dream dinner party guests are Brian Cox the scientist as he's "super smart", as well as Leonardo DiCaprio and Kevin Hart. Love Island will air on ITV2 and ITVX tonight at 9pm. Previous seasons of Love Island are available on BritBox – you can sign up for a 7-day free trial. Looking for something else to watch? Check out our TV Guide or Streaming Guide, visit our Entertainment hub for the latest news. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Who is Will Young? Meet Love Island 2023 contestant and farmer
Love Island is back on our screens for its second winter run, and the 2023 cast members are already hard at work to find love. While sparks have been flying between various contestants, one islander not having much luck so far is Will Young – no, not the singer Will Young, but the TikTok farmer who entered the ITV2 show's South African villa on Monday night. Despite his huge TikTok following, Will is yet to find romantic success on the show, and is the only single contestant after bombshell Tom Clare swooped in and stole his partner Olivia Hawkins during a recent recouping. With things looking uncertain for Will and another recoupling set to unfold on Friday, as well as the first dumping of the season, here's what you need to know about the contestant. Will Young – key facts Age: 23 Job: Farmer Instagram: @farmer_will_ From: Buckinghamshire Couple up with: Nobody Will is a fan of Sir David Attenborough, naming him as the star he’d most like to see appear in a film of his own life. “Imagine hearing his calming voice talking while he’s feeding the animals, his top off, some short shorts… he would rock it,” he says. Do we have a joker in our midst? Why did Will want to take part in Love Island? View oEmbed on the source website The demands of his rural lifestyle have meant that Will has struggled to balance his personal life with his work responsibilities, so he’s hoping that his stint in the villa will give him the opportunity to focus on romance. “Having grown up on a farm, it’s been quite difficult juggling relationships and work,” he admits. “Love Island will give me time away from the farm to solely go out and find love. I think I’m at the time of my life where I’m mature enough to go and find a wife.” Is Will on Instagram? You can follow Will on Instagram on @farmer_will_, where his videos showing him shearing sheep and posing with his very sweet pet lamb have earned him 116,000 followers. He’s even more popular over on TikTok, where he uses the handle @farmerwill_ and has managed to clock up 1.1 million followers. However, Will’s social media accounts will be going quiet while he’s in the villa, as new Love Island duty of care rules mean that contestants have to pause posting while appearing on the show. This new measure is designed to "protect both the islanders and their families from the adverse effects of social media". What is Will looking for in a partner? We know that Will is a fan of meditation after learning about it from a former date, so any future love interests might want to take note. “Every night I light a candle and meditate for 20-25 minutes,” he says. “A girl I was seeing told me to meditate, I tried it and loved it. I stopped seeing her and carried on meditating! It’s a nice way to self reflect, taking a minute on my day/week. It’s really nice and sets me up for a nice sleep.” View Green Video on the source website Previous seasons of Love Island are available on BritBox – you can sign up for a 7-day free trial. Love Island continues on ITV2 and ITVX every night at 9pm. If you're looking for something to watch, check out our TV Guide or Streaming Guide. Visit our Entertainment hub for all the latest news. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
BBC acquires Magpie Murders and announces season 2 with Lesley Manville
Anthony Horowitz says the show is moving to "its natural home".
The BBC has announced the acquisition of the mystery series Magpie Murders – and revealed that it will be airing a follow-up season next year. The first season, which previously aired on BritBox, was adapted by Anthony Horowitz from his own novel of the same name and starred Lesley Manville as editor turned sleuth Susan Ryeland and Timothy McMullan as fictional detective Atticus Pünd. Both stars will reprise their roles in a sequel series titled Moonflower Murders, which will commence filming later in 2023 before airing next year. "I’m very happy that Magpie Murders is going to be shown on the BBC – its natural home," Horowitz said of the news. "I had such fun writing the scripts and they’ve been brought to life by a brilliant director and cast.” Producer Jill Green added: “I’m so thrilled that this playful, distinctive murder mystery will now reach an even wider audience,” while the BBC's Head of Programme Acquisition Sue Deeks said she was "delighted" that BBC viewers will have the opportunity to enjoy the series. She continued: "With their stellar cast and ingenious storylines, they are a truly distinctive and entertaining take on the murder mystery genre." The first six-part season – described as a "murder mystery within a murder mystery" – will begin airing on BBC One and BBC iPlayer later this spring, more than a year after it debuted on BritBox in February 2022. The cast also includes Daniel Mays (Line of Duty), Michael Maloney (Belfast), Conleth Hill (Game of Thrones), Alexandros Logothetis (The Island), Claire Rushbrook (Sherwood), Pippa Haywood (Bridgerton), Matthew Beard (Vienna Blood) and Harry Lawtey (Industry). View Green Video on the source website Read more: How is Magpie Murders TV series different from the book? Where is Magpie Murders filmed? Magpie Murders' Lesley Manville explains “unconventional” character Magpie Murders is currently available to stream on BritBox – you can sign up for a 7-day free trial. Check out our TV Guide or Streaming Guide, or visit our Drama hub for more news and features. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Love Island 2023 star Lana Jenkins speaks out on new social media rules
"I think it's nice that you have time away from Instagram."
On Monday 16th January, a brand new batch of islanders will arrive at the Love Island villa as season 9 kicks off with new host Maya Jama. But things will be a little different this year, with the show rolling out new Love Island social media rules, which will see the islanders pause posting content on their accounts rather than having a family member or friend monitoring their pages while they're away. Speaking to RadioTimes.com and other press, make-up artist and Love Island 2023 contestant Lana Jenkins revealed what she thinks of the new protocol - and it's a "yes" from her. "I think it's not a bad thing at all," she said. "I think it's nice that you have time away from Instagram and also your friends and family don't have the pressures of it." She continued: "I think it's a lot to deal with having to watch your friend or your daughter go on telly, as well as running an account. I'd just prefer that they just relax, watch it and just crack on, and then as soon as I'm out, I'll be back on Instagram so it'll be fine." While Lana is looking forward to the social media break, the 25-year-old is going to miss having her family and friends around, particularly her mum. Asked if there's anything she wishes she could take into the villa, she joked: "My mum, maybe. Just like on the sidelines, but not actually. Just there if I need her. View Riddle on the source website "Me and my mum are so close. We're like best friends as well as mum and daughter and I talk to her every day, so I think one of the things that is going to be big for me is not talking to my mum every day. I just wish she could be in the beach house just so I could go and have a little cuddle every now and then." ITV confirmed the new social media strategy in December, stating that contestants will be asked to "pause handles and accounts on their social media platforms for the duration of their time on the show" in order to "protect both the islanders and their families from the adverse effects of social media". Love Island will return to ITV2 and ITVX on Monday 16th January 2023 at 9pm. Previous seasons of Love Island are available on BritBox now - you can sign up for a 7-day free trial here. If you're looking for something to watch, check out our TV Guide or Streaming Guide. Visit our Entertainment hub for all the latest news. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Love Island unveils first look at brand new South African villa
There's only a week to go, and we've now got our first look at the stunning new villa.
The 2023 winter season of Love Island is only a week away, with this new outing of the reality series taking place in a brand-new South African villa. Now, we have our first look at the all-new, stunning villa that the islanders will be entering, which is replete with all the usual rooms and extras that we have come to expect by now. The photos give us a look at both the inside and outside of the new villa, which includes a bar with the words "Eat, Sleep, Crack on, Repeat" attached to it in neon. While the summer seasons of the reality series have traditional taken place in a villa in Mallorca, 2020's winter season also took place in South Africa. However, this is not the same villa that the previous season was filmed in. Along with this new look at the villa, the first contestants to be joining the show this year have also been unveiled, including a farmer, an airport security officer and a ring girl and actress. The new villa isn't the only change-up fans can expect for this year's Love Island, too. There will also be a new host, with Maya Jama filling the role which was left by Laura Whitmore after last year's summer season. Jama will be on hand to oversee both the winter and summer seasons this year, with this being the first year to ever include two full instalments of the hit show. View Green Video on the source website In a recent interview ahead of the new season, Jama said that her age may have been a factor in her not getting the hosting job until now. She explained: “I think I’ve always been in their eye line, but I was super young when the presenter shifts were happening in the past. They knew about me but I was always a bit too young, and obviously, there were previous hosts anyway." Winter Love Island starts on ITV2 and ITVX on Monday 16th January 2023 at 9pm. Previous seasons of Love Island are available on BritBox – you can sign up for a 7-day free trial. Looking for something else to watch? Check out our TV Guide or Streaming Guide, visit our Entertainment hub for the latest news. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Who is Haris Namani? Meet Love Island 2023 contestant and TV salesman
Haris hasn't found love so far, but is hoping to change that in the villa.
January is about to get a lot hotter: a new season of Love Island will be landing on our screens next week, bringing with it a fresh line-up of singletons looking for romance on primetime television. The ITV2 dating show will be moving to Cape Town, South Africa for the winter, with new presenter Maya Jama presiding over the recouplings, taking over from previous host Laura Whitmore. Among the islanders aiming to turn heads this time around will be Haris Namani, a 21-year-old TV salesman who hails from Doncaster. Describing himself as “a unique guy” who is “confident, not awkward, especially with the girls”, Haris is convinced he’ll be a hit in the villa. “Anyone who meets me, I don’t think they have anything bad to say about me,” he says. “I don’t give them that bad impression to say, ‘Oh, I don’t want to speak to him again.’” Here’s what we know so far about the Love Island hopeful before the new season kicks off. Haris Namani – key facts Age: 21 Job: TV salesman Instagram: @haris_namanii Why did Haris want to take part in Love Island? Haris has been unlucky in love so far and reckons a stint in the villa could be the perfect solution. “I’ve never found love,” he admits. "I think this is the show that can help me. “It’s the best opportunity for me to find the girl and find the right one. I’ve obviously not found the right one myself.” Is Haris on Instagram? View oEmbed on the source website Head over to @haris_namanii and you’ll find Haris’s Instagram account with just over 2,100 followers so far - although that figure is sure to shoot up once the show gets started. As well as documenting trips to sunny locations like Marbella and Ibiza, Haris shares photos of his boxing training and images from his fights. Do we have a new Tommy Fury on our hands? Like all the other Love Island 2023 contestants, he has changed his Instagram bio to read: “I’m off to find love in the @loveisland villa. See you soon!” Haris’ social media accounts will go dormant while he appears on the show, as ITV’s new duty of care rules request that contestants pause posting completely, rather than handing over their accounts to friends and family, as islanders have done in previous years. What is Haris looking for in a partner? Haris will be hoping to find someone he can introduce to his family when he flies back from South Africa. “I’ve never taken a girl home, I’m not going to say I’ve fallen in love until I’ve taken them to meet my mum and dad or sisters and brother,” he says. View Green Video on the source website Winter Love Island starts on ITV2 and ITVX on Monday 16th January 2023 at 9pm. Previous seasons of Love Island are available on BritBox – you can sign up for a 7-day free trial. Looking for something else to watch? Check out our TV Guide or Streaming Guide, visit our Entertainment hub for the latest news. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Who is Anna-May Robey? Meet Love Island 2023 contestant and Welsh beauty
Who is the Swansea-based payroll administrator?
Get ready for some unseasonable fun in the sun, as Love Island returns for a brand-new winter season later this January. New host Maya Jama will be overseeing proceedings as a new group of singletons get ready to couple up in the South African villa, but who will be amongst the contestants? Well, one new islander set to enter the villa this season is Anna-May Robey, a payroll administrator from Swansea who describes herself as "energetic", explaining that she's "always running around singing and screaming". Here is everything you need to know about Anna-May Robey ahead of the start of winter Love Island 2023. Anna-May Robey - key facts Age: 20 Job: Payroll administrator Instagram: @annamayrobey Why did Anna-May Robey want to take part in Love Island? View oEmbed on the source website Explaining why she wanted to enter the Love Island villa, Anna-May said: "I want a boyfriend, I want to find someone who makes me laugh. I’ve been single for quite a while, my mother is bugging me, she's like, ‘You need to find a boyfriend.’ "I’m just excited to try something new and I think going on Love Island is a good way to meet someone." As to what we can expect from her on the show, Anna-May has said she's "energetic" and that she's "always running around singing and screaming". She continued: "My parents are always like, ‘Shut up!’ I work from home all day so I don’t really speak to people in person for two or three days a week, so when my father comes home, he’ll want to sit down and chill out, and I’m there chewing his ear off! I would definitely say I am a chatterbox." Is Anna-May Robey on Instagram? She is! Anna-May currently has over 3,400 followers on the platform, and like many of the other contestants has noted in her bio that she's "off to find love in the @loveisland villa". You can find her Instagram profile at @annamayrobey. What is Anna-May Robey looking for in a partner? Anna-May hasn't said exactly what she's looking for just yet, but she has described a previous date experience that she won't be trying to emulate. She said: "I went on a date once and I never saw him again. We went for food and shared a bottle of wine. As I was speaking to him he fell asleep! I had to clink his wine glass to wake him up." View Green Video on the source website Love Island returns to ITV2 and ITVX at 9pm on Monday 16th January. Previous seasons of Love Island are available on BritBox now - you can sign up for a 7-day free trial here. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Who is Kai Fagan? Meet Love Island 2023 contestant and PE teacher
Who is the Manchester-based science and PE teacher?
It's that time again - Love Island is back, with its second ever winter season set to air later this month on ITV2 and ITVX. Maya Jama will be taking over hosting duties from Laura Whitmore, and while a first-look teaser of her in the role was released last month, we are just now starting to get news of the contestants who will be entering the villa this year. One of those is Kai Fagan, a science and PE teacher from Manchester who says he's going to be "looking for the right girl" on the show. But what else do we know about him at this point? Here is everything you need to know about Kai Fagan ahead of the Love Island premiere. Kai Fagan - key facts Age: 24 Job: Science and PE teacher Instagram: @kaifagan_ Why did Kai Fagan want to take part in Love Island? View oEmbed on the source website Kai from Manchester is a Jamaican citizen who played rugby 7s for Jamaica and now plays semi-professional rugby for Burnage RFC. He says he's "technically" got three different degrees, each from different universities. He adds that he is "chilled, caring, very impulsive and a good guy" and that he always puts his "friends and family first" and spends a lot of time with them. Kai says he's "single by choice", but that he is now "looking for the right girl" as he enters the villa. Is Kai Fagan on Instagram? Yes, he is! Kai currently has over 1,300 followers on the platform, where he has already teased that he is "off to the Love Island villa", adding "see you soon!" You can find him at @kaifagan_. What is Kai Fagan looking for in a partner? So far, Kai has said little about exactly what he's looking for, but he did says that he feels like he has "quite high expectations". He added: "I don’t feel I should commit to someone unless I’m absolutely buzzing over them, because it’s not fair on them." View Green Video on the source website Previous seasons of Love Island are available on BritBox – you can sign up for a 7-day free trial. Love Island returns to ITV2 and ITVX at 9pm on Monday 16th January. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Doctor Who fans celebrate David Tennant's return with festive watchalong
With Christmas being a time to eat, drink and watch tonnes of telly, Doctor Who fans are planning their own festive watching on the big day. Emily Cook, a former editorial assistant of Doctor Who Magazine and organiser of Doctor Who: Lockdown!, rallied the troops via Twitter with the following callout: "OK, by popular demand, let's do a tweetalong of The Christmas Invasion! Christmas Day @ 7pm GMT 'This is a one-off. No extras or surprise guests, just fans coming together (I know some are on their own) to celebrate Who at Xmas & David Tennant's return in 2023," she announced. As Doctor Who fans will know, the episode was written by Russell T Davies and aired on Christmas Day 2005. It was the first official special in the franchise and David Tennant's first full episode as the Tenth Doctor. He crashes the TARDIS in London on Christmas Eve, before fainting, which is alarming in and of itself, but the Sycorax have also arrived in the capital to enslave mankind, which makes matters significantly more challenging. Alongside Tennant, there was Billie Piper as Rose Tyler, Camille Coduri as Jackie Tyler and a raft of other familiar faces including Penelope Wilton, Adam Garcia and Paul Anderson. While promoting Sky comedy-drama I Hate Suzie Too recently, Piper was asked if she'd change a plot point or ending in any of her projects (via BuzzFeed), and this is what she had to say: "Oh my God, for sure, the Doctor Who ending where I go off with the second Doctor instead of the real Doctor to the parallel universe. "It's not a criticism of Russell T Davies, because he is the master, but I struggled with that. Mainly because the second Doctor is less good than the real one!" She was also asked if she'd sign up to a Rose Tyler spin-off if the opportunity arose: "If it was shot in London – sorry that's a really loveless answer! "There’s a running theme here, I don’t want to work much. It was like four episodes all shot in London, then yeah, I'd be like a rat-up-a-drainpipe for that." Doctor Who is available to stream on BBC iPlayer with episodes of the classic series also available on BritBox – you can sign up for a 7-day free trial here. Check out more of our Sci-Fi coverage and visit our TV Guide or Streaming Guide to see what's on tonight. The Christmas double issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Where does BritBox fit in to ITV's plans for their new streaming platform?
New to the streaming game is ITVX, which is set to launch on 8th December, replacing the broadcaster’s previous platform, the ITV Hub. The ambitious new service will be the home of exclusive new shows, including upcoming dramas like A Spy Among Friends, starring Damien Lewis and Guy Pearce, and Without Sin starring Line of Duty’s Vicky McClure, which will eventually air on ITV’s linear channels six months down the line. There are plenty more exciting launches planned for 2023, with ITV claiming that the service will debut at least one flagship show a week going forward. And if that doesn’t seem like enough telly for you to get stuck into, there’s plenty more on offer. ITVX will be home to over 10,000 hours of content, including drama series from the broadcaster’s back catalogue, documentaries and hundreds of blockbusters. But where does BritBox, the ITV-backed streaming platform which spotlights classic British series and movies, fit into these grand plans? Here’s what we know so far. How do you watch BritBox on ITVX? As part of the new ITVX service, you can opt to subscribe to ITVX Premium, which will give you access to yet more series - including all the content currently available on BritBox. The service, which costs £5.99 per month or £59.99 per year, also allows you to watch ITVX content without adverts, and to download and stream content on the go (so Premium subscribers will be able to settle down with an ITV box set on a long train journey, for example). If you fancy testing it out before you make an investment, ITVX are currently offering a free seven-day trial. "You will be able to see all the BritBox content on ITVX if you have an ITVX Premium subscription," ITV has confirmed. However, if you’re already a BritBox subscriber, you won’t be able to use your login to access the benefits of ITVX Premium. "You won’t be able to watch [BritBox content] on ITVX using your BritBox subscription or account details," a help page for the service explains. Standalone BritBox subscriptions will continue to be available as an additional subscription on Amazon Prime Video. How can I get ITVX? The official launch date for the service is 8th December, but ITVX has already been rolled out on a range of devices, including Samsung Smart TVs dating from 2016 onwards, Roku streaming players and NOW smart sticks and boxes. Other devices and models should update from ITV Hub to ITVX by 8th December, and you can also explore the new platform by heading to itv.com to get to grips with the web browser version. What shows are coming to ITVX? The platform will make its debut on 8th December with an impressive slate of new dramas, including A Spy Among Friends, teen coming-of-age series Tell Me Everything, period drama The Confessions of Frannie Langton and the feature-length finale of Plebs. The following week will see the launch of David Tennant-led thriller Litvinenko on 15th December, then on 22nd December much-anticipated family saga Riches (which has already garnered comparisons with Succession) will premiere, along with McClure’s psychological thriller Without Sin. Russell T. Davies’ latest project Nolly, which stars Helena Bonham Carter as Crossroads actress Noele Gordon, is expected to launch on ITVX early in 2023. Check out our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what is on television this week. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Best Christmas TV specials - from Gavin and Stacey to Black-ish
There’s nothing that instantly gets you in the Christmas mood like a good TV special. Yes, Christmas TV can be a little cheesy, but some of our favourite shows have managed to expertly channel some yuletide spirit to dream up brilliant seasonal episodes over the years. From Gavin & Stacey’s cliffhanger ending and Alan Partridge’s festive fiasco, to Ted Lasso’s heartwarming celebrations and versions of The Office on both sides of the Atlantic, these are some of our favourites. If none of them quite hit the spot, though, why not check out our guide to the best Christmas films on Netflix or the best festive movies streaming on Amazon Prime Video? The Vicar of Dibley Come all ye faithful Dawn French fans, come one and all - because what better time of year than to indulge in a tipple of the spicy (yet comforting) glass of mulled wine that is a Vicar of Dibley Christmas special. The sinfully funny vicar Geraldine Granger (she of the bob cut and knitted crucifix jumpers) featured in two festive episodes during the show’s initial run in the 1990s. The iconic one is from season one, when Geraldine attends multiple Christmas lunches to please her faithful (and unobservant) parishioners. However, our favourite is the season three episode Winter, which sees Geraldine participate in a Nativity play on a farm (dressed as the Angel Gabriel, obviously). There’s also last year’s The Vicar of Dibley in Lockdown, and the two Noughties episodes, set during December, when Geraldine first meets the dishy Harry (Richard Armitage), a “towny b*****d” - and the love of her life. And what makes it even better is that all these Christmas specials are available to watch right now. Verily, your prayers have been answered. Stream The Vicar of Dibley now on BritBox UK. Black-ish - Black Santa/White Christmas (season 1, episode 10) Let’s get real: if you’re white, you’ve never really considered that almost every mainstream depiction of Santa Claus is of an old white dude. Things come and go, seasons change but Santa’s race is categorically white, according to popular culture. US sitcom Black-ish, which charts the everyday goings on of the Johnson family, interrogates that in Black Santa/White Christmas, because there’s no reason why festive TV can’t address some long-standing wrongs. The guy from accounts who traditionally dresses up as the big lad drops down dead at work one day, which leaves the door open for a new face to lace up those big, black boots, throw on a bushy white beard and 'ho ho ho' ‘til the reindeers come home – and Dre Johnson wants to be that guy, launching a campaign to ensure that he is chosen as Stevens & Lido’s new Santa. But things don’t exactly go to plan, with a couple of fairly seismic hurdles thrown his way. Not only is it an original idea for a Christmas special (Lord knows we’ve seen the whole gamut), it’s also really funny, courtesy of some excellent writing and a sublime festive montage that will have you cackling into your Baileys. Stream Black-ish now on Star on Disney Plus. Friends - The One With the Girl From Poughkeepsie (season 4, episode 10) Of the 10 festive episodes it produced during its decade on air, the standout from Friends – and, indeed, one of the show’s most underrated episodes – is season four’s The One With the Girl From Poughkeepsie. What’s special about this one is that all four major plot strands, large and small, hit the mark: the two biggest story threads are both all-time-greats, as Chandler’s well-intentioned efforts to fix up Rachel with a work colleague (or several) quickly go off course thanks to Mr Bing’s big mouth, while Joey (work nickname: “Dragon”) and his own attempts to save Monica from bullies at work also ends up more complicated than either expected. But even the B-plots here are brilliantly funny, with Ross’s difficulty deciding between two women he’s dating – one who lives far away and one who lives much closer but might be “kind of a racist” – giving the episode its title and Phoebe’s struggle to write a Christmas song in tribute to her friends getting a wonderful pay-off at the episode’s conclusion (“And Rachel and Chandler… *mumbles*… handler!!”). Stream Friends now on Netflix UK. Father Ted - A Christmassy Ted Though it ran for just three series, Father Ted unquestionably earned its place in the pantheon of classic sitcoms, delivering memorable characters, quotable lines and scenarios just on the right side of cartoonish without fail across 25 episodes, one of which is the superb A Christmassy Ted. A ratings smash for Channel 4 when it first aired on 24th December 1996, this hour-long special almost always gets an outing around Christmastime, with fans never tiring of Ted (Dermot Morgan) and Dougal's (Ardal O’Hanlon) desperate odyssey through a department store's lingerie section, the running gag involving Mrs Doyle (Pauline McLynn) struggling to hang up her decorations, and the aftermath of what happens when someone lets loveable clown Dougal do a funeral... Stream Father Ted now on All4 and BritBox. Ted Lasso - Carol of the Bells (season 2, episode 4) Christmas comes this time each year, and in the world of Ted Lasso, that time is… inexplicably… the middle of August. At least, that’s what we’re led to believe by the fact that Ted Lasso season 2’s Carol of the Bells episode dropped on Apple TV Plus in the heart of that summer month. However, strange scheduling choices aside, this festive instalment is just as joyous a gift as you’d expect from the heartwarming show. Ted and Rebecca give literal gifts to the community, a huge crowd of international players descends on the Higgins homestead for their Christmas lunch, and Roy drags Keeley around town in search of an emergency dentist appointment. And to top it all off, Hannah Waddingham unleashes her ridiculously powerful vocal cords for a yuletide singsong worthy of the North Pole itself. Pure festive bliss. Stream Ted Lasso now on Apple TV+. Community - Regional Holiday Music (season 3, episode 10) Joel McHale’s cult favourite sitcom produced a few memorable festive episodes across its six-season run, but this one is the strongest in our book. Regional Holiday Music started out as a ruthless parody of grating high school drama Glee, but its strong character moments, original songs, and dark humour ensure the episode remains an offbeat delight years after the merciful decline of the inciting material. The original cast is on top form here, with standout moments including the blistering rap delivered by Donald Glover (just prior to his Childish Gambino days) and Alison Brie’s hilarious send-up of a sexy Christmas serenade. Stream Community now on Netflix UK. Gavin & Stacey If you’re going to watch a festive episode, why not watch the most successful Christmas special to ever grace our screens? Back in 2019, Gavin & Stacey creators James Corden and Ruth Jones brought back everyone’s favourite characters from Billericay and Barry for a catch-up - and it was perfect. Set a whole 10 years after the final episode of season three, the Shipmans and the Wests met in Wales for Christmas – and there were a lot of new additions, including Gavin and Stacey’s three kids. With Smithy’s new girlfriend causing a bit of a stir, Dawn and Pete in trouble and the biggest cliff-hanger in the lifespan of the series, the Gavin & Stacey Christmas special in 2019 is one for the history books… literally. The episode quickly became the most-watched scripted TV programme of the 2010s with a total of 17.1 million viewing the special within a week of it airing. While we wait for any tantalising teases of more episodes, why not check out arguably one of the greatest sitcom instalments of all time? Stream Gavin & Stacey now on BBC iPlayer and BritBox UK. Knowing Me, Knowing Yule... with Alan Partridge Steve Coogan capped off his farcical chat show parody with an extended Christmas special titled Knowing Me, Knowing Yule, hosted by his iconic alter-ego Alan Partridge. The 40-minute episode is densely packed with rapid fire gags, including some of the most inappropriate comments to ever leave the mouth of Norwich’s pride and joy. Familiar faces from the main series return in new roles, including Rebecca Front as pious bellringer Mary and David Schneider as BBC Commissioning Editor Tony Hayers, both of whom quickly become bitter rivals of Partridge in his colosseum of conversation. A-ha! Stream Knowing Me, Knowing You with... Alan Partridge on BritBox UK. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air - Deck the Halls (season 1, episode 15) It’s Christmas in the Banks house (huzzah!), but you wouldn’t know (boo!). There’s a distinct lack of festive cheer, with Ashley, in particular, unable to embrace the season of goodwill. Fortunately, Will is on hand to drum up some enthusiasm for the holidays as he reminisces about how they do it back in his hometown of Philly, and he has an idea to get his little cousin in the mood. As you’d expect, Will’s grand plan initially goes down like a lead balloon, with an angry mob gathering in the Banks’ living room to voice their displeasure. But this is a Christmas special, which means that a happy ending was always on the cards. The episode is very much in keeping with the rest of the series, which is why it’s so good. And there’s an unexpected guest star, which works exceedingly well and goes down a storm with the studio audience. Stream The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air on BBC iPlayer, Sky Comedy and NOW. New Girl - LAXmas (season 4, episode 11) The best Christmas episodes are often those which deliver warm fuzzy feelings – and New Girl’s LAXmas is prime sitcom warm fuzzies. The gang head to the airport together to depart for various destinations for the holidays, but the upcoming festivities are jeopardised by a storm which threatens to leave them stranded rather than jetting off to see family, meet boyfriends’ parents (Jess) or, in Coach’s case, enjoy a solo holiday to Hawaii for some “me time” instead of spending time with loved ones – a choice he is most definitely not feeling guilty about. While Jess frets that Ryan might be out of her league, the real heart of this episode lies with Cece and Schmidt. Everyone loves a bit of romance at Christmas, and watching Cece navigate and placate her future husband's various neuroses and he, in turn, ultimately forego the chance to move one step closer to being "the kind of guy who takes one bite of lobster and then throws the rest of it in the trash" in order to shield her from just such a man's advances is as heart-warming a festive treat as mulled wine. Meanwhile, Jess decides not to fly to England after freaking out when Ryan sends a picture of his family’s English mansion. With everyone else having managed to board their respective flights, the festive spirit peaks when Nick discovers she's backing out and, as is the great sitcom tradition, they get off the plane(s), refusing to catch their flights unless she gets hers and encouraging her all the way to the gate just in time. Heartfelt and hurried hugs are exchanged, She & Him’s rendition of God Only Knows plays over the final montage, Coach goes home instead of Hawaii and, most importantly, Schmidt and Cece continue to build the foundations for their love story through good old-fashioned friendship. Stream New Girl now on Disney Plus. The Office (US) - Christmas Party (season 2, episode 10) Over its eight-year run, The Office US gave us several festive episodes, but the best of the bunch has to be season two’s Christmas Party. The spin-off itself is just starting to take on its own identity after a critically divisive first season and in this Christmas episode, we see Steve Carell’s Michael Scott, the cringe king of Scranton’s Dunder Mifflin, at his pettiest. The paper company employees have decided to do a Secret Santa this year and a lovelorn Jim (John Krasinski) is buzzing to give Pam (Jenna Fischer) a teapot filled with inside jokes, meaningful tokens and most crucially, a letter professing his true feelings for her. However, when Michael – who’s ignored the $20 limit to buy his man-crush Ryan (BJ Novak) a $400 video iPod – is visibly disappointed by his knitted oven mitt from Phyllis, he turns the game into a White Elephant gift exchange – and chaos ensues. As the sitcom’s first go at a festive episode, Christmas Party ticks all the boxes for Office fans. From a classic Michael tantrum and typical Dwight (Rainn Wilson) eccentricity to some top Jim and Pam content and Meredith (Kate Flannery) drunkenly flashing her boss, ‘tis definitely the season to revisit this iconic Christmas cringe-fest. Stream The Office (US) now on Netflix UK, Sky Comedy and NOW. The OC - The Best Chrismukkah Ever (season 1, episode 13) View oEmbed on the source website Seth Cohen (Adam Brody) introduces us all to his Christmas-Hanukkah hybrid in The OC’s first (and best) festive episode. Christmukkah is a way to celebrate both his parents’ faiths, and Seth reckons he’s come up with “the greatest super-holiday known to mankind”. He’s thrilled to induct the family’s newest unofficial addition, Ryan (Ben McKenzie) into the ways of his holiday celebration, especially as his friend has only ever had awful Christmas experiences with his own family, but some classic OC romantic drama (this time it’s the love triangle between Seth, Rachel Bilson’s Summer and Samaire Armstrong’s Anna) threatens to derail his best laid plans. Stream The OC on ITVX and Amazon Prime Video. Peep Show - Seasonal Beatings (season 7, episode 5) Mark (David Mitchell) has the dubious honour of hosting his downright atrocious family for Christmas at Apollo House, which means that Jeremy (Robert Webb) is tagging along for the ride too. It soon becomes clear that the two men have very different approaches when it comes to Christmas (Mark’s idea of a stocking filler is a set of kitchen tongs, while Jez has put in some very uncharacteristic effort when trying to select gifts for his flatmate), and the pair very nearly come to blows over the turkey. Things get complicated fast when Dobby (Isy Suttie) turns up and Mark refuses to introduce her as his girlfriend, and the day takes another turn for the chaotic when Super Hans (Matt King), AKA ‘Father Spliffmas’, joins the party. Is cauliflower traditional? We’ll leave you to decide. Stream Peep Show on Netflix, Britbox and Channel 4. The Office (UK) Christmas special parts 1 and 2 This festive special, which also serves as a farewell to the Wernham Hogg gang, marks a hilarious and poignant end to The Office. Set a couple of years on from the original mockumentary, it follows David Brent (Ricky Gervais) in his new guise as a travelling salesman-slash-wannabe singer, trapped in a cycle of sad nightclub appearances. The self-styled chilled out entertainer is still hovering around his former colleagues, of course, and returns to the office for the annual Christmas party. Cue a triumphant moment where he finally gets to stand up to Finchy (Ralph Ineson), and a tear-jerking scene when Tim (Martin Freeman) and Dawn (Lucy Davis) finally get together, soundtracked by Yazoo’s Only You. Stream The Office (UK) now on Britbox and BBC iPlayer. Looking for something else to watch? Visit our TV Guide or Streaming Guide, or check out our Drama hub. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
How to watch The Sarah Jane Adventures – is it streaming?
The popular spin-off starring Elisabeth Sladen turned 15 earlier in 2022.
It's time to catch up with a beloved spin-off of Doctor Who. Earlier in 2022, Doctor Who spin-off The Sarah Jane Adventures celebrated the 15th anniversary of its first episode. The series – which was aimed at slightly younger audiences than the main show – starred the sadly departed Elisabeth Sladen as the eponymous investigative journalist, as she helped keep the planet safe from extraterrestrial intruders along with some younger accomplices. Sarah Jane and her young accomplices also had some crossover moments with other Doctor Who figures including companion Jo Jones (formerly Grant) and even the Doctor himself! With that in mind, you might be wondering where the series is currently available to watch – read on for everything you need to know. How to watch The Sarah Jane Adventures The Sarah Jane Adventures is now available in its entirety on BBC iPlayer. The series was re-added on Tuesday 29th November 2022 and will be available for over a year. Sharing the news on his Instagram, Russell T Davies penned: "BACK ON iPLAYER! The Sarah Jane Adventures. I love this show ♥️ @bbc @bbciplayer @bbcdoctorwho". Heartstopper star Joe Locke commented on the post: "My childhood". The show is also available on BritBox, alongside every episode of classic Doctor Who adventures. You can sign up now for a seven-day free trial for BritBox, while there are also free trials available for the Prime Video and BritBox add-on. Alternatively, it's possible to buy the series from a range of Premium VOD services, including Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and iTunes, with the cost per season varying between £5.49 and £10.49. Is The Sarah Jane Adventures on Netflix? No – although the show was once able to watch on Netflix, The Sarah Jane Adventures is not currently available on the streamer. Is The Sarah Jane Adventures on BBC iPlayer? Yes, The Sarah Jane Adventures is available in its entirely on BBC iPlayer. The Sarah Jane Adventures on DVD If you'd like to own physical copies of the series, you can buy The Sarah Jane Adventures: The Complete Collection DVD boxset on Amazon. The boxset features every episode of the show in addition to some extra features and is available for the price of £36.43 at the time of writing. How many episodes are there of The Sarah Jane Adventures? There are 53 episodes, 27 serials and an additional short film to The Sarah Jane Adventures. The serials are as follows. Special Invasion of the Bane Series 1 Revenge of the Slitheen Eye of the Gorgon Warriors of Kudlak Whatever happened to Sarah Jane? The Lost Boy Series 2 The Last Sontaran The Day of the Clown Secrets of the Stars The Mark of the Berseker The Temptation of Sarah Jane Smith Enemy of the Bane Short film From Raxacoricofallapatorius with Love Series 3 Prisoner of the Judoon The Mad Woman in the Attic The Wedding of Sarah Jane Smith The Eternity Trap Mona Lisa's Revenge The Gift Series 4 The Nightmare Man The Vault of Secrets Death of the Doctor The Empty Planet Lost in Time Goodbye, Sarah Jane Smith Series 5 Sky The Curse of Clyde Langer The Man Who Never Was The Sarah Jane Adventures is available to stream on BritBox. For more, check out our dedicated Sci-Fi page or our full TV Guide. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now and get the next 12 issues for only £1. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times podcast with Jane Garvey.
Staged season 3 review: Tennant and Sheen comedy keeps things fresh
The lockdown comedy takes a successful step out into the world.
There was a time where only the gloomiest of us would have imagined we would be sat here now, watching another season of David Tennant and Michael Sheen's comedy Staged. When it first arrived the series was a brilliant bolt of joy in amongst the misery of 2020, but it felt so inextricably linked with the pandemic and lockdowns that one would have had to believe we'd still be confined to our houses for another season to be on the way. As it turns out, this has not been an issue. In spite of the world moving on from COVID-enforced isolation, plenty of us still conduct a number of our relationships almost entirely over video calls. Staged season 3 does have some fun with the idea of Tennant being trapped in a room once more, but in truth there was no need for such a narrative device to be used. It's not difficult to imagine these two preferring to enjoy each other's company from a distance. This season finds David and Michael in the present day, going about their everyday lives and having cut off all contact from their former director Simon. However, as his career remains stagnant, Simon plots to rope the pair back together to record a new radio play just in time for Christmas. Much like how the idea of regeneration expanded the lifespan of Doctor Who indefinitely, the key to unlocking Staged's long-term future arrived unexpectedly at the start of season 2, when it was revealed that the first season was now a show within a show – Staged season 2 revolved around the actors reflecting on having made the series' first outing. This review won't spoil the new season (and in fact wouldn't be able to – only two episodes have been made available for review ahead of their release on BritBox), but it's fair to say there are some more fantastic experimentations with form, keeping the audience on their toes and the narrative hilariously, purposefully convoluted. As you might expect, there are also some more incredibly game guest star appearances, but the focus remains as always on the central pairing of David and Michael, and rightfully so. The two them are clearly still having so much fun as their bickering alter egos, riffing on improvisational games, owed favours and hair dye. Meanwhile, Simon Evans, Staged's creator both inside and outside of the show, continues to provide a great foil for the pair, and their partners Georgia Tennant and Anna Lundberg also continue to do sterling work. A particular sequence surrounding Georgia's birthday in the second episode is a particular highlight, and an example of how great actors can still turn old-fashioned farcical miscommunication storylines into gold. The first episode may not be the show's best ever - the aforementioned reason for David's isolation adds a layer of (initially) distracting unreality to the proceedings, and the instalment feels like more of an easing back in when put in comparison with season 2's blisteringly funny and experimental opener. Regardless, it's still frequently, reliably amusing, and the show's new Christmastime setting gives the whole endeavour a slight festive feel – something which will surely be to this season's benefit when it comes time for potential yearly re-watches. With only two episodes to go on, it's hard to say whether season 3 is as great a success as the first two. It certainly hasn't dipped off in quality in any considerable way so far, and one wouldn't expect it to. What Evans has created is a brilliantly and surprisingly malleable formula, which retains the show's initial charm while still managing to move things on in new and unexpected ways. All this said, fans of the series know that the real reason they tune in is to watch Tennant and Sheen's inimitable chemistry and farcical squabbling – and the joy of watching that in any form certainly doesn't seem to be at risk of diminishing any time soon. View Green Video on the source website Staged season 3 will stream on BritBox UK from Thursday 24th November 2022 – you can sign up for a 7-day free trial here. Check out more of our Comedy coverage or visit our TV Guide to see what's on tonight. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
David Tennant and Michael Sheen to return for Staged season 3
The series will be moving to a new home, with episodes streaming exclusively on BritBox UK.
Almost a year since Staged dropped its New Year special hinting at a third season, we now finally have confirmation that the series starring David Tennant and Michael Sheen is back - but perhaps not in a way you would expect. While seasons 1 and 2 of the hit comedy, which originated during the first lockdown in the COVID pandemic, both aired on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, this new third season will stream exclusively on BritBox UK. Fans won't have long to wait to see the new episodes, as this announcement comes mere days before they are due to drop, on Thursday 24th November. The official synopsis for the new season says: "Things have returned to normal for David and Michael. They have moved on from lockdown and returned to their everyday working life, while Simon’s career remains stagnant. His phone does ring, but only to ask if he can get David and Michael back together; and they’ve made it clear they want nothing more to do with him." View oEmbed on the source website The synopsis continues: "But Christmas is approaching, and Simon hopes the warmth of the season might soften them to the idea of a radio version of a Christmas classic… but that’s as far as Simon’s plan has got!" The series, created by Simon Evans and Phin Glynn, will once again star Tennant and Sheen as themselves, alongside their partners Georgia Tennant and Anna Lundberg. Staged season 2 previously saw the show's original premise upended, as a meta plot twist saw the first season described as a fictional show within the 'real world' of season 2. Whether a similar narrative device plays out in season 3, with season 2 also be referred to as a fictional series, remains to be seen. Following Staged season 3, Tennant and Sheen will next been seen together again in Good Omens season 2, which has been confirmed to be dropping on Amazon Prime Video next summer. Meanwhile, Tennant was also recently seen back in Doctor Who, as a surprise regeneration twist saw Jodie Whittaker turn back into Tennant's form, making him the new Fourteenth Doctor. Staged season 3 will stream on BritBox UK from Thursday 24th November 2022 - you can sign up for a 7-day free trial here. Check out more of our Comedy coverage or visit our TV Guide to see what's on tonight. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Unforgotten's Sanjeev Bhaskar to lead BritBox's Inspector Singh drama
The three-parter is adapted from the book series Inspector Singh Investigates.
Unforgotten's Sanjeev Bhaskar will star in BritBox's new crime drama Inspector Singh, adapted from Shamini Flint's long-running book series, Inspector Singh Investigates. The Sandman actor plays Singapore's top sleuth, described as having "a taste for curry and a nose for crime" in the three-parter, which will be directed by Suri Krishnamma and has been scripted by Paul Logue, whose credits include Death in Paradise, Midsomer Murders, Shetland and Vera. Each season tackles a complex murder featuring compelling suspects, dark motives, and surprising twists – all rooted in the DNA of a different Asian country. Season 1 sends sleuth Singh to Kuala Lumpur to investigate the seemingly cut-and-dried case against Chelsea Liew, a famous Singaporean model on death row for murder. BritBox's synopsis reads: "Chelsea swears she's innocent. Despite his brusque exterior, Singh has a big heart and an abundance of empathy – and with a talent for reading people, is inclined to agree. Unfortunately, the evidence against her is damning. With Chelsea facing the noose, Singh must use his intelligence, intuition, and instinct to quickly find the real killer." On developing the screen role, Sanjeev Bhaskar said in a statement: "Unusual locations, unusual detective, Inspector Singh is unlike any part I’ve played or any cop I’ve seen. The fact that Singh is unfit and loves food seems a perfect fit for me." Jonathan Karas, Head of Editorial and Programming for BritBox International added: "We are thrilled to greenlight this original and highly engaging series, featuring a unique new detective. With the brilliant and funny Sanjeev Bhasker in the title role, Paul Logue’s wonderful scripts, and a great creative team from 108 Media, we hope this will be yet another series that the BritBox audience fall in love with." Meanwhile, Bhaskar will be back as Sunny in season 5 of Chris Lang's Unforgotten, with Sinéad Keenan taking over from Nicola Walker to debut DCI Jessica James. The release date has yet to be announced. Inspector Singh will go into production in January 2023. Inspector Singh will launch on BritBox – you can sign up to BritBox with a 7-day free trial here. Unforgotten season 5 will air on ITV. Seasons 1-4 are available to stream on the ITV Hub. Visit our TV Guide to discover what else you can watch tonight, or find all the latest news on our Drama hub. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now and get the next 12 issues for only £1. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Sanditon shares first look at season 3 – will new faces ruffle feathers?
Season 2 ended on a major cliffhanger, so who will Charlotte Heywood end up with?
First-look images from the third season of Sanditon promise more romantic twists and turns and herald the arrival of a new visitor to the picturesque coastal resort. Season 2 of the ITV and BritBox period drama, which is based on the unfinished novel by Jane Austen, saw Charlotte Heywood (Rose Williams) meet a new array of potential suitors following the death of her former love interest Sidney Parker (Theo James). The season concluded on a surprising note as Charlotte revealed she had agreed to marry Ralph Starling (Cai Brigden), the local farmer favoured by her family. This unexpected engagement came after she had previously fallen for Alexander Colbourne (Ben Lloyd-Hughes), who had employed Charlotte as a governess for his daughter and niece, but later fired her when they started to fall for one another. One photo shows Charlotte and her new fiancé gazing into each others’ eyes against the backdrop of Sanditon beach. Fans will have to wait and see whether their relationship can go the distance, though, not least because Colbourne will be back on the scene, with another new snap showing him looking pensive in a lavish drawing room. The third picture shows heiress Georgiana Lambe (Crystal Clarke) holding hands with Lord Montrose (Edward Davis), a new addition to the seaside town. Will this newcomer be the one to shake things up? And who else is due to arrive at the resort? Among the characters returning for round three will be property developer Tom Parker (Kris Marshall), his wife Mary (Kate Ashfield) and the formidable Lady Denham, played by Anne Reid. Jack Fox will also be back as the scheming Edward Denham, joined by Turlough Convery as the youngest Parker sibling Arthur, Kevin Eldon as the Reverend Hankins, Eloise Webb as Colbourne’s niece and ward Augusta Markham and Adrian Scarborough as Dr Fuchs. The new season is set to air on PBS in the United States in 2023, and on BritBox and ITV in the UK, with a release date yet to be announced. The first season of the lavish period drama initially aired on ITV in 2019 and was later cancelled by the broadcaster, only to be revived for two further seasons after campaigning from fans. Sanditon is available to watch now on BritBox – you can sign up to BritBox with a 7-day free trial here. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide to see what's on tonight. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now and get the next 12 issues for only £1. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Edgar Wright's comedy remains one of the finest British films of the 21st century.
Since its release 15 years ago, Edgar Wright's Hot Fuzz has cemented its place as one of the most beloved comedy films of the 21st century. The middle entry in Wright and Simon Pegg's so-called Cornetto Trilogy (sandwiched between the equally revered Shaun of the Dead and slightly less-appreciated The World's End), it contains perhaps more quotable lines of dialogue and memorable comic set pieces than any British film released since. The story follows tough city cop Sergeant Nicholas Angel, who suddenly finds himself uprooted from his busy London job and sent to the tiny Gloucestershire village of Sandford – a multiple Village of the Year winner where it initially seems crime is rather scarce. Of course, things turn out not to be quite what they seem, and with help from his hapless colleague Danny Butterman (Nick Frost), Angel sets about getting to the bottom of the dark secret at the heart of Sandford. In many ways, Sandford resembles what you might call a stereotypical English town – albeit with significantly more murders – and so you might be wondering where in the UK the film was actually shot. Read on for everything you need to know. Where was Hot Fuzz filmed? Sandford is not actually a real place, and the vast majority of filming in fact took place in Wells, a cathedral city in Somerset that holds the distinction of being England's smallest city. Wells also happens to be where Edgar Wright himself spent most of his childhood, and the director said of the chosen location at the time: "I love it but I also want to trash it." In real life the city has a notable cathedral, but Wright made the decision to airbrush the building out of every shot so that the Church of St Cuthbert could instead serve as Sandford's centre point. In addition to St Cuthbert's, Wells's locations that can be seen throughout the film include The Swan Hotel, where Nicholas Angel stays; local pub The Crown at Wells, where he first meets and arrests Danny; Little Theatre, where he watches a terrible amateur production of Romeo and Juliet; The Bishop's Palace, where he attends a meeting of the Neighbourhood Watch; and the local supermarket – then a Somerfield but now a Tesco Superstore. If you're a Hot Fuzz fan hoping to visit some of these locations then it couldn't be easier – there are regular Hot Fuzz Film Location Tours in Wells that even let you in on some little-known secrets about the film. Away from Wells, other locations used in the film include Hendon Police College, Wards Hurst Farm in Hertfordshire (where David Bradley's character Arthur Webley's farm is based), and the surviving ruins of Waverley Abbey where parts of the final chase were filmed. Hot Fuzz is currently streaming on BritBox – you can sign up for a 7-day free BritBox trial here. Check out our Film hub for more news, interviews and features or find something to watch with our TV Guide. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now and get the next 12 issues for only £1. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Sir Michael Palin reflects on the "step into the unknown" that would become a comedy classic
Ripping Yarns, the masterly anthology series that Palin created with fellow Python Terry Jones, is 45 this week – and now on BritBox. So how did it come about? And which is Palin's favourite episode?
"There was this nicely unique formula with chances to do lots of little jokes – and I think that’s what makes them watchable again. There’s always something to see..." Sir Michael Palin is talking to Radio Times about Ripping Yarns, a comedy where anything could happen – and frequently did. It was set in an early 20th Century in which you could cross the Andes by frog, the most boring man in the world became a fêted bank robber and a plummeting football team reversed its fortunes by employing OAPs. Its arcane world of hopping contests and crusty colonials tore into a world of derring do made popular in The Boy's Own Paper. The rituals of boarding school, scarcely credible sporting heroics, displays of aggressive imperialism... all were ripe for affectionate ridicule in a show that was lapped up back in the day, and is now ready for reappraisal on, effectively, its 45th anniversary in its new home on BritBox. Ripping Yarns ran for just nine episodes – one season in September 1977 following a well-received pilot the previous year, then a three-part second season in 1979 – but it soon became embedded in the national consciousness, evolving from the seminal work of surrealism that was Monty Python's Flying Circus. Costing £34,000 per half-hour – double the average sitcom episode at that time – it was artistically filmed, full of period detail and great gags, and peopled with prestige actors. It came during a flowering of post-Circus creativity: John Cleese went on to Fawlty Towers, Eric Idle to Rutland Weekend Television, Terry Gilliam to fantasy films like Jabberwocky and Time Bandits, and Michael Palin and Terry Jones to their majestic upending of adventure tropes. I asked Sir Michael who had the initial idea for the Yarns. "Terry and I were looking round for something to write, and Terry had a book on his shelf, which I might well have given him because we exchanged old-fashioned books: it was called Ripping Yarns: a Collection of Tales. "Terry’s brother Nigel said, 'That might make a good idea for a series.' And when we were discussing it together we said, 'Let’s have a go' and I went away and started to write Tomkinson’s Schooldays in the style of those ripping yarns. So it’s a bit of a mix between Terry, his brother Nigel and myself." It's a period that Palin delights in remembering, a time when he collaborated with his great friend Terry Jones (who sadly died in 2020 aged 77), although he admits that the project was not devoid of awkwardness. "I always look back fondly on working with Terry because he was such a good companion and such a genial presence. But it was also quite difficult because I felt that if I was going to be acting in the Yarns, it would slightly change our relationship. I think Terry would probably like to have been involved as thoroughly as I was but there wasn’t room for both of us doing the same amount of work, so Terry ended up writing with me but not acting." In the event, Jones only appeared in the first story. "But relationships were changing then anyway really. John wasn’t writing so much with Graham Chapman and Eric had gone off to do his own series, Rutland Weekend Television. So it was a time of change but in terms of writing the Yarns, Terry was great because he was rather good at plot and I was better at character, I suppose, and so it was quite a good combination." Its fans are legion, especially among comedy cognoscenti. Bestselling author John O'Farrell, who was a lead writer for Spitting Image and Have I Got News for You, tells Radio Times: "I loved Ripping Yarns when I was a teenager growing up in Maidenhead, and was of course thrilled that our local paper made an appearance in The Curse of the Claw! "My favourite was The Testing of Eric Olthwaite – I loved that his father pretended to be French so that he didn’t have to talk to him. It’s actually very hard to write a boring character, without them just being, well you know, boring – but poor Eric was both funny and sort of lovable." Eric Olthwaite was a character that Palin loved inhabiting: "It was very enjoyable because he was such a sort of wonderfully odd, irritating person to play (laughs)." And in Python tradition, Palin took on multiple roles in most episodes: "The idea was that I should be the central performer I suppose – this was what the BBC wanted. And of course I enjoyed playing the characters I’d written. "This was a characteristic of Python: I think some of the best performances were by people who’d written the material as well. So I thought, 'I’ll guard this material carefully by playing it because I know how it should be done' (chuckles) – and all sorts of arrogant things like that. But Terry said that, 'Sometimes you tend to play the straight man in the middle, around which all the silliness happens,' and it was very fair point, because I like taking sort of odd and strange characters like the two brothers in Murder at Moorstones Manor. "But I was aware also that sometimes, as in something like Across the Andes by Frog, you’ve got a central character who’s quite straight. Mad but straight. And he’s the anchor of the whole lot really and if you don’t get his character and motivation just right, the characters around him aren’t going to work so well." The adventures were also blessed with a superb cast, from Liz Smith and Kenneth Colley to Jan Francis and John Le Mesurier. "We got some wonderful people," agrees Palin. "In Tomkinson we had Gwen Watford who was just so marvellous as the mother wandering into the sanatorium with her shoe trees (laughs). I mean she’s just so wonderfully sort of gently British and beautiful and lovely and carrying these shoe trees... it was hilarious. To get her and Ian Ogilvy as the school bully was terrific. A wonderful start." Any particular favourites? "I was delighted to get Denholm Elliot to play the seedy consul in Across the Andes and there were some great performers in Roger of the Raj, getting Joan Sanderson and Richard Vernon at either end of the table as a Lord and Lady discussing the toast. Absolutely excellent. And John Le Mesurier as one of the people in the room where various members of the dinner party were going out and shooting themselves for getting the etiquette wrong. That was terrific." The star did have reservations, however: "Sometimes I did have the feeling, and I know Terry did too, that we hadn’t got quite the right person to play it. We got a very good actor but very good actors don’t always trust the script and they try to make it funny their way – actually very often the real humour is by underplaying it completely. "That occasionally happened and on some mornings as I woke up early I’d think, 'Oh my God, ideally we’d have all the Pythons playing these parts,' because you never had to tell the Pythons how to hit the comic tone – they always got it right. It was an instinctive thing. But that was the thing about Ripping Yarns: it was different from Python. We were using straight actors and sometimes it worked very well, other times not so well." Doing something different was, Palin confesses, "a bit of a step into the unknown, quite bracing", particularly as the stories were self-contained. Writer John O'Farrell can testify to this: "When you make the early decision to do a different set of characters every week, there is no momentum gained, no regular characters for the audience to fall in love with. This actually occurred to me when I was writing Murder Most Horrid with Dawn French. With AbFab, Jennifer Saunders had created a show with characters that we grew to love week after week, whereas Dawn was starting from scratch every episode." That maintaining of impetus was a concern to Palin, too. "I know what John O’Farrell means. We only did nine in the end, mainly because the BBC said that they couldn’t afford to do any more because they were rather expensive, but I think that was a sort of code for saying that they weren’t getting quite the ratings! We found a different genre for each of the nine shows. Beyond that I don’t know where we would have gone." In the days before green screen, some of the action and stunts had to be performed for real. The 1913-set Whinfrey's Last Case for example, filmed in Devon and Cornwall, featured a clifftop drive in a period car. "We were really on the top of that cliff and it was quite dangerous. The joke was of course that the woman who was driving couldn’t see over the steering wheel, so you couldn’t see her at all: just a couple of hands on the steering wheel! This had to be done and it was done with a stuntman, obviously – but I was in the car. Nowadays with CGI and all that you’d probably get something that looks very impressive but didn’t have the feel of some of these great moments of effects, which worked very well and were quite hairy to do." The perils of location filming extended to being threatened with an injunction for gunshots fired at night in Roger of the Raj (a scene in which an Army regiment mutinies). "Yes! There was a tremendous amount of shooting. Joan Sanderson was given a proper machine gun, which was incredibly noisy. I have to say she really enjoyed firing it, you could tell! There was one great burst, then silence and suddenly you heard, 'Shut that bloody noise up!' I don’t know if we did get an injunction but the neighbours certainly weren’t happy." A fondly remembered Yarn, and one of Palin's favourites, is Golden Gordon, about the obsessive fan of the worst football team in England in 1935. Was it a tale born of bitter experience? "I’m not going to put anyone in the dock here (laughs) but I was born and brought up in Sheffield so I’ve supported Sheffield United. And with all the teams, every Saturday, when the results come it’s a time of high, nervous excitement. I’ve been though all that when we’ve been beaten at home by the bottom club and you just plunge into total gloom, so it was really exaggerating that – and of course with moments when they win, you feel the other way. "Funnily enough I dreamt that story up in Gabès in Tunisia filming Monty Python's Life of Brian. I was about to be crucified later in the day and I was walking along the beach early and I suddenly hit on this idea of the ultimate football supporter whose team always loses. By the end of a half-hour walk on the beach I almost had the full story. "I remember John Cleese was walking the other way and we stopped and I told him the idea and he chuckled and I thought, 'Well that’s a good sign.' [John] ended up making a brief appearance as a passer-by. He didn’t take much persuading – he thought it would be good fun and was very happy to do it. "There were some wonderful performances. One of the greatest was from David Leland, who was our friend who directed films himself, playing the manager who has a nervous breakdown – 'It’s not the shorts, it’s what’s inside them that matters!' – and you just get this team of derelicts looking bewildered as he races off, pulling his shorts off (laughs)." With comedy fans treated to both Ripping Yarns and The Life of Brian, it was a very fulfilling time for Palin, professionally. But there was plenty of "first-night" anxiety. "The trouble is, anything you do that’s new carries with it a certain sort of nervousness about how it will be received. With hindsight, Life of Brian had been very well received and was much admired and the Yarns are much loved, but at the time it was striking out in a different direction. "There was always a feeling that, 'We’re not doing Parrot Sketch, we’re not doing Cheese Shop, we’re not doing Spanish Inquisition, people are going to miss these things.' So you didn’t know how an audience would take to the new work until the material had been out. So although it was liberating to be doing so many different characters and writing really quite fluently, it was always tempered by the fact that, 'Is this the right thing to be doing?'" However, after the last Yarn to be filmed, the BBC pulled the plug. "John Howard Davies who was BBC head of comedy then – and funnily enough he’d directed the first four Pythons [Flying Circus episodes] – he just said we’re not going to do any more because we don’t have enough money. So that was it really, that was the reason they gave me. There’s always a feeling that perhaps if they had more confidence, if they really got it, if they really understood it, we could have done more. "I think what they meant when they said it was too expensive was that there was a great sense of place in all these, and we shot on film. Nowadays everybody does that – with comedy just as much as with drama – but they didn’t at that time. Drama got the money and comedy was supposed to be done really in a studio with a few plywood walls and all that. And it was obviously more expensive than Fawlty Towers, which had been much more successful. But I think it was part of the BBC’s thinking at the time, you know, that you shouldn’t spend that much on comedy series." Made with love and still enjoyed 45 years later, Ripping Yarns' legacy is assured. Palin must be proud of them? "Yes I look back on them very fondly because I think there’s a sort of spirit that people either get or they don’t get. Within them there are lots of really nice Pythonic little moments and jokes. George Harrison and a lot of the music set liked the Yarns very much and they liked Golden Gordon, particularly the exchange 'How’s Vera?' 'Not bad. Farting’s stopped.' They loved that. Joe Brown used to go around saying 'Farting’s stopped' all the time! "I don’t think they all worked quite as well as they should but they all were quite distinctive and have left a flavour behind, which I don’t think was matched by anything. No one’s really tried to do anything like that." And a final word from John O'Farrell: "It remains one of my favourite comedies from the period, a slightly overlooked gem from the Python alumni – and it deserves much wider exposure. Because any television comedy with Michael Palin should be made available to us 24 hours a day as a form of therapy for modern Britain." The entire Ripping Yarns are now available on BritBox UK.