Young Sheldon

This warm and well-cast prequel to the The Big Bang Theory proved such a hit Stateside – and did such steady business for E4 – that its speedy return is no surprise. In fact, when they were shown here on the same night, the precocious offshoot crept up on and even improved on its parent’s ratings. It’ll be fascinating to see how the competition hots up with Big Bang (8pm) back on form.

As we catch up with the Cooper household to witness the childhood quirks that will one day turn into full-blown Sheldonian eccentricity, the sensitive lad himself (Iain Armitage) is so distracted by a high-pitched whine no one else can hear, that he dismantles the source – the family fridge – thus generating a $200 repair bill. A thunderous George (Lance Barber) tells his son, “I don’t care how long it takes: you’re going to pay me back every cent.” Sheldon’s tears even prompt a miraculous hug from his usually resentful sister, Missy.

The newspaper delivery round that ensues proves to be as successful as it sounds on paper, ending in a controlled eruption from the boy that is unexpectedly moving. But then Young Sheldon always has more in its armoury than you expect. Welcome back, Shelly.