Home//What's on TV/18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issue/In This Issue
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueEat, drink and be merry!NewTHE LARKINSChristmas Day, 9pm ITV★ There’s always plenty of food, drink and good cheer at the Larkins’ farm, from Pop’s co*cktails to the gargantuan meals served up by Ma. So it’s not surprising that, come Christmas, they push the gravy boat out!‘The dinner table is laden with every item of food you can imagine!’ says Bradley Walsh, who’s back as Pop for a feature-length episode of the heart-warming period drama. ‘Ma starts cooking three days before, and there’s goose, chicken, turkey, pigeon, sparrow… anything they can lay their hands on!’Meanwhile, Pop and Ma (Joanna Scanlan) get the best possible Christmas present as Mariette (Sabrina Bartlett) and Charley (Tok Stephen) come home.‘Mariette left to go live in France at the end of the first series,’ says Bradley. ‘She’s come back, so…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueChristmas surprise!NewCALL THE MIDWIFEChristmas Day, 8pm BBC1★ Christmas 1966 could be the busiest Yuletide yet for the residents of Nonnatus House in the festive special of Call the Midwife.The nuns and midwives are rushed off their feet as a range of expectant mums are all due to give birth at Christmas and the maternity home is packed to the rafters with tricky patients ranging from a lady with high blood pressure to a troubled gangster’s wife.Loved-up midwife Lucille has other things on her mind, however, as she’s preparing for her Boxing Day wedding to fiancé Cyril (Zephryn Taitte) and their friends are pulling out all the stops to give them a day to remember.‘Lucille came to Britain to work and she wasn’t thinking about love. Their relationship has been a slow-burner…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueOh yes it is!NewNOT GOING OUTThu 23 Dec, 10pm BBC1★ As usual, Christmas ends with a ding-dong between Lee (Lee Mack) and Lucy (Sally Bretton), as the chaotic parents crash from one near-disaster to the next.Lee isn’t too thrilled that Lucy has booked tickets for a panto that happens to star Jason Donovan, who was Lucy’s teenage crush in his Neighbours days. Jason guest stars as himself, while Lee and Lucy’s friends Toby and Anna appear in the panto as the Ugly Sisters, along with Lucy’s parents Geoffrey and Wendy as Baron Hardup and the Fairy Godmother.WORDS: NICK CANNON, CAREN CLARK, HANNAH DAVIES, ELAINE REILLY. PHOTOS: BBC, C4, GETTY, ITV…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueAlso onTHE RANGANATIONSun 19 Dec, 10pm (NI, 11.30pm) BBC2Join Romesh Ranganathan, his mum Shanthi and celeb guests for a look at some of the festively funny goings-on around the UK. Comedian Romesh also starts hosting game show The Weakest Link from Saturday 18 December (BBC1, 6.10pm), with a Strictly special followed by a Christmas-themed edition with a line-up of panto stars.TWO DOORS DOWNMon 20 Dec, 9.30pm (NI, 10.30pm) BBC2There should be lots of goodwill at Michelle and Alan’s house as they welcome the neighbours for a Christmas get-together after Beth and Eric (pictured) decide to spend the holidays away from it all. But Michelle struggles to keep the night on track, especially with Gordon’s fussing irritating Ian. Can a silly game of kazoo bring harmony?WE WISH YOU A MANDY CHRISTMASMon 20…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueVoices of angels!NewTHE VOICE KIDSHol Mon 27 Dec-Wed 29 Dec, times vary ITV★ Spice Girl Melanie C joins Danny Jones, will.i.am and Pixie Lott as a coach for this festive specials of The Voice Kids. Over three nights, pint-sized performers aged seven to 14 will sing their hearts out to get those coaches’ big red chairs turning. ‘We arrive on sleighs and somebody is Father Christmas,’ says Mel. ‘There’s something very magical about these kids.’WORDS: NICK CANNON, HANNAH DAVIES, TESS LAMACRAFT, STEVEN PERKINS, VICTORIA WILSON. PHOTOS: ALAMY, BBC, GETTY, ITV…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueMerry baking!NewTHE GREAT CHRISTMAS BAKE OFFChristmas Day, 8pm C4★ The cast of award-winning drama It’s a Sin get into the festive spirit as they head into the famous tent to compete in C4’s The Great Christmas Bake Off.Matt Lucas and Noel Fielding host the special episode as Olly Alexander, Nathaniel Curtis, Shaun Dooley and Lydia West show off their culinary skills and try to impress judges Paul Hollywood and Dame Prue Leith with three seasonal bakes, including a leftover pie and an edible Christmas tree made of biscuit. Who will be crowned Christmas Star Baker?Getting into the spirit‘All the challenges are Christmassy and traditional. There was great camaraderie in the tent, the bakers were entertaining, supportive but competitive, and each had a natural aptitude,’ says Paul, who loves filming the Yuletide…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueA snowy arrivalNewTERRY PRATCHETT’S THE ABOMINABLE SNOW BABYChristmas Day, 7.30pm C4★ Dame Julie Walters spreads some Christmas cheer as the voice star of this heart-warming animated show. Based on a short story by legendary author Terry Pratchett, the festive tale begins when a town awakes after a storm to the sight of a 14ft snow baby!Shunned by the townsfolk, the new arrival is rescued by a bold granny. Along with grandson Albert, she lovingly welcomes him into her home and helps the community overcome its fears…‘Even at the age of 98, Granny is still full of energy,’ says Dame Julie, who voices her. ‘It’s a story about love and rejecting prejudice, which is the kind of thing we need at the minute!’…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueMary’s elf help!NewMARY BERRY’S FESTIVE FEASTSMonday 20 December, 7.05pm BBC1★ Cooking queen Dame Mary Berry has got her work cut out helping three non-cooks create surprise feasts for their loved ones in this three-part series.The kitchen novices are invited into Dame Mary’s home as she gives them a Christmas cookery lesson with the help of two celebrity elves, Sewing Bee’s Patrick Grant and presenter Alex Jones. But will the wannabe chefs be able to pull off Dame Mary’s stunning Yuletide spread once they’re back at home? ‘I know Christmas cooking can feel a bit overwhelming,’ says Dame Mary. ‘My advice would be to keep it simple, write lists and choose a Christmas dinner that you know your family will enjoy.’…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueToy-tastic!NewALL I WANT(ED) FOR CHRISTMASBoxing Day, 8pm C4★ As kids, Christmas meant one thing – presents! But no matter how many gifts there were piled under the tree, there was always that one longed-for toy that Santa never delivered. Now, a handful of hopeful celebs, including Jonathan Ross, Martine McCutcheon and Robert Webb, get to turn their childhood dreams into reality as they gather for an ultimate gift-giving event where they finally get to unwrap the Mr Frosty, Girls World Styling Head or Scalextric set they always pined for. But as they get all nostalgic about their childhood Christmases, was that one elusive gift really all it was cracked up to be?…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueIce Age giantsNewATTENBOROUGH AND THE MAMMOTH GRAVEYARDThursday 30 December, 8pm BBC1★ Sir David Attenborough investigates an Ice Age mammoth graveyard. Ever since he was a boy, he’s been fascinated with the idea of hunting for fossils, and now he gets his chance when he joins a team of experts as they excavate a Cotswolds gravel pit where fossilised bones of mammoths were found four years ago. The site also reveals stone tools used by early humans. But why were the Ice Age giants there? And could ancient humans have killed them?…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueComet calamity!Don’t Look UpNEWAvailable: Christmas Eve Genre: One-off comedy Runs: 145minLeonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence have six months to save the world in Netflix’s comical pre-apocalyptic film. They play low-level astronomers Dr Randall Mindy and Kate Dibiasky, who make a shocking discovery that a comet is on a direct collision course with Earth. Unfortunately, nobody seems to believe them, so their only hope is to go on a massive media tour, which takes them to the White House of US President Janie Orlean (Meryl Streep) and her hapless son, Jason (Jonah Hill), who’s her chief of staff. Can they get the world to wake up before it’s too late? The all-star cast also includes Cate Blanchett, Ron Perlman, Sir Mark Rylance, Himesh Patel, Timothée Chalamet and Ariana Grande.WORDS: NICK CANNON, HANNAH…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueIn love with LUCYBeing the RicardosNEWAvailable: Tuesday 21 Dec Genre: One-off drama Runs: 125minJavier Bardem and Nicole Kidman play real-life famous married couple Desi Arnaz, a Cuban-born bandleader, and Lucille Ball, the stars of the hit 1950s sitcom I Love Lucy. Going behind the scenes of the iconic show, this stylish film tells the story of the couple’s complex romantic and professional relationship, as they’re threatened by shocking personal accusations, a political smear and cultural taboos. Meanwhile, it soon becomes clear that their marriage off screen is nothing like their loving marriage in the show.…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueSpace criminalsThe Book of Boba FettNEWAvailable: Wednesday 29 December Genre: Sci-fi Season: 1 Eps: 7 (released weekly)Star Wars fans are in for a treat with another galactic spin-off that follows on from the success of The Mandalorian. Set in the same timeline, it stars Temuera Morrison as Boba Fett and shows what happened to the legendary bounty hunter after the events of The Empire Strikes Back as he joins forces with elite mercenary Fennec Shand (Ming-Na Wen) to stake a claim on the desert planet of Tatooine.‘We’re going to see his past and where he’s been since The Empire Strikes Back,’ says Temuera. ‘Now’s the time to go back and check out his journey.’…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueDoctor’s fright night…NewDOCTOR WHOBBC1★ For her final New Year’s Day special, 13th Doctor Jodie Whittaker is joined by guest star Aisling Bea (This Way Up) as Sarah, who owns and runs ELF storage. Every New Year’s Eve, a regular customer Nick (Enterprice actor Adjani Salmon) visits his storage unit, but this year the night turns out to be a little different. The action-packed episode is the first of three specials to air in 2022, which will include Jodie’s last as the Time Lord, where she’ll regenerate.DON’T FORGET YOUR SPECIAL NEW YEAR ISSUE! ON SALE THU 23 DEC!…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueGray’s aKILLER!When Gray’s ex-boss Laura warned Whitney that Gray was a dangerous man, it struck a chilling chord.Having had a terrible taste of the lawyer’s scary side, Whitney could no longer ignore the warning bells.With pregnant Chelsea due to marry Gray on Christmas Day – in a double ceremony with her mum Denise and Jack Branning – Whitney needs to unearth evidence, fast.Finding help seems impossible. Whit reels to learn Laura’s already tried warning Gray’s fiancée, and even Kheerat seems to have given up on his conviction that Gray had a hand in Chantelle’s death.Kheerat was right, of course. Gray’s not just dangerous. He’s a serial killer who’s murdered Chantelle, Tina Carter and Whit’s fiancé Kush.When Chelsea calls Whitney over to No.1 in a terrible state, Whit dreads to think what’s…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueNew Year’s clanger…Following a terrible Christmas that sees Sarah attempt to bring the Barlows and the Platts together, she and Adam try to do better for New Year’s Eve. But that turns into a disaster, too – although it all starts out so well…Given their recent rows about Adam’s lady-loving past and Sarah’s friend Lydia – who’s revealed she had a thing with Adam at university – the couple could do with some romance. So Sarah’s thrilled when Adam suggests they see in 2022 with a night in a posh hotel.However, as the pair sit down to dinner, the mood sours when the waiter remembers Adam from a previous visit and Sarah realises this is the hotel where he took Carla for their night of passion!Upset, the factory boss starts up about…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueMarry me!When Kim took a break from the village, she never imagined her lodger Bernice would try to muscle in on her boyfriend, Will.With the Tate home, man-mad Bernice pretends she’s dating to make Will jealous… and it works! During a candid chat, Bernice insists Will make a choice…Trust issuesHowever, Kim hears their every hurtful word. Will the betrayed boss lash out?On Christmas Day, Will’s horrified to see a huge empty hole where he buried dodgy DI Malone. Aghast, Will fears Kim has found out about Bernice and is planning to use the secret against him.However, Kim explains she’s moved the incriminating corpse so that Will doesn’t feel indebted to be with her.Her gesture wows Will, who proposes!‘They have a different dynamic than Kim’s past relationships. She’s always been in the…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueNightmare on Main Street!It’s stalemate at The Woolpack, where Al has tried to ruin the pub, so it can be made into flats, and co-owners Chas and Marlon have fought him off at every turn.But while Chas and Marlon have got each other’s backs, lone wolf Al’s got gangster Gavin breathing down his neck, wanting results and a return.When Gavin’s car pulls up in Emmerdale and a muscly thug steps out, Al accepts he’s in for a pasting. However, the next day, he learns the brutal beating was just the tip of the iceberg. After listening to a threatening message from Gavin, Al’s horrified when he clocks his boss in the village talking to Ellis!DesperateNot about to let his son come to harm, Al knows only drastic action will end his nightmare…As he…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueA festive crisis!NewALL CREATURES GREAT AND SMALLChristmas Eve, 9pm Channel 5★ Helen and James are looking forward to spending their first Christmas together as an engaged couple in All Creatures Great and Small’s seasonal special. But James (Nicholas Ralph) thinks they will be celebrating at Skeldale House and Helen (Rachel Shenton) assumes they will be with her family! Meanwhile, there’s worry for the vets when Tricki Woo, the pampered Pekinese of Mrs Pumphrey (Patricia Hodge), falls ill…‘You don’t want to see Tricki in any other state than his jolly little self,’ reveals Nicholas. ‘The dog who plays Tricki, Derek, is incredible!’…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueHouse of horrorsNewTHE GIRL BEFORESun 19 Dec-Wed 22 Dec, 9pm BBC1 All four eps will be on iPlayer after the first ep airs★ Young couple Emma and Simon move into architect Edward’s modern house after he advertises for tenants in this four-part psychological thriller. But following a string of shocking events, Emma and Simon (played by ex-EastEnders stars Jessica Plummer and Ben Hardy) are suddenly no longer living there. Edward’s next tenant, Jane (Loki star Gugu Mbatha-Raw),is completely unfazed – until she makes an unnerving discovery about Emma. Is Edward (David Oyelowo) dangerous?‘From the moment Emma meets Edward, she senses he’s a man in control,’ says Jessica, who played Walford’s tragic Chantelle Atkins. ‘She’s drawn to that.’Great new TV stories daily at whattowatch.com/christmas-tv…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueCaribbean Christmas slayingNewDEATH IN PARADISEBoxing Day, 7.30pm BBC1★ You won’t need to jet abroad for winter sunshine this year as Death in Paradise gets its first-ever Christmas special – featuring the return of a familiar face!DI Neville Parker’s plans to return to Manchester for Christmas are postponed when a billionaire shipping magnate dies.At first, it seems as though the depressed tycoon has taken his own life – but why has a London minicab driver received a Christmas card with a suspicious message that seems to be connected to the death in Saint Marie?With the team short-staffed over the festive season, Officer Dwayne Myers (Danny John-Jules) makes a timely return to help out.Balmy‘It was a bit weird filming it,’ says Ralf Little, who plays DI Parker. ‘When you’re used to Christmas being cold…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueDeck the hallsNewJOE LYCETT: MUMMY’S BIG CHRISTMAS DO!Wednesday 22 December, 10pm C4★ Joe Lycett is hosting his very own, slightly crazy, LGBTQ+ house party, live from his home town of Birmingham.The sparkling 90-minute festive extravaganza will be packed full with special guests, LGBTQ+ icons, fun games, musical performances and stand-up comedy, all in front of a live studio audience. ‘This show combines three of my favourite things – LGBTQ+ culture, Birmingham and chaotic live television,’ says Joe. ‘I can’t wait to introduce viewers to our colourful and anarchic world, with some silliness thrown in.’…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueBlankety blissNewBLANKETY BLANKChristmas Day, 7.25pm BBC1★ The legendary game show, now hosted by Bradley Walsh, is back for some festive fun, with six celebrities on the panel and some brilliant prizes for the contestants. How clever will Mel B, Angela Rippon, Richard E Grant, Tom Allen, Sarah Millican and Danny Jones be when filling in the blanks?‘The panel were glammed up in festive outfits, the set was all decked out and we had a fantastic Christmas tree,’ says Bradley. ‘Father Christmas also joined us, allowing me to arrive in style on the back of his sleigh. All the questions were Christmas themed and there were some hilarious answers. Christmas specials are such a joy to film – the mood on set is great because everyone’s in high spirits!’…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueStep into Christmas!It’s the final!STRICTLY COME DANCING: THE FINALSaturday 18 December, 7pm BBC1STRICTLY COME DANCING CHRISTMAS SPECIALChristmas Day, 5.10pm BBC1★ Expect lots of glitter and sparkle this Christmas with two helpings of Strictly Come Dancing.After what’s been an incredible series, Saturday 18 December sees the Strictly final, where the remaining celebrities will battle it out for the coveted Glitterball trophy.Then, on Christmas Day, stars take to the floor for the Strictly special. The Repair Shop’s Jay Blades, First Dates’ Fred Sirieix, TV presenter Mel Giedroyc, singer Anne-Marie, newsreader Moira Stuart and broadcaster Adrian Chiles will all be jiving around the Christmas tree.And judge Anton Du Beke can’t wait… ‘I love the Christmas special. It’s such a beautiful show and there’s something really special about being on telly on Christmas Day,’ he says.…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueA year of gloryNewBBC SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEARSunday 19 December, 6.45pm BBC1★ The country’s top sports stars gather in Salford for this year’s live ceremony. There have been successes, among them teenager Emma Raducanu unexpectedly winning tennis’ US Open, plus diver Tom Daley, who finally got an Olympic gold along with his 10m synchro partner Matty Lee. Strictly’s Adam Peaty won two Olympic golds, and the England football team made it to the Euro 2020 final. Who’ll win tonight?…1 min
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Issue Issue 909 - HeatWhat's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueAlso onTHE SNOWMANChristmas Eve, 5pm C4THE SNOWMAN AND THE SNOWDOGChristmas Eve, 5.35pm C4Another chance to see Raymond Briggs’ snowman brought to life in the classic 1982 animation, as he befriends a young boy and they fly to the North Pole, followed by its 2012 sequel.BEAUTY AND THE BEASTSun 19 Dec, 9pm (NI, Thu 23 Dec, 9pm) BBC2This year’s panto for Comic Relief is Beauty and the Beast, with Lily James (right) as Beauty and Sian Gibson as Ma. Guz Khan is the narrator.FLASH FAMILIES AT CHRISTMASThu 23 Dec, 10.30pm Channel 5Meet Brits who love to go big, from spending £10k on festive decor to the couple who want live reindeer in their garden.HORRIBLE HISTORIES: CRACKING CHRISTMASChristmas Day, 8.50am CBBCLearn about past Christmases with a fun twist, including why Henry VIII hated…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueChristmas treasuresNewTHE REPAIR SHOP AT CHRISTMASChristmas Eve, 7pm BBC1★ The famous barn opens up to bring Christmas treasures back to life – and, as usual, things get emotional!First up is Maureen, whose mechanical walking doll, Susie, helped her to learn to walk again after a battle with polio. But it’s now Susie who needs help getting back on her feet. There’s also a spinning wooden nativity scene, which hasn’t worked since owner Sophie’s mum died from cancer three years ago, and an ageing toy train set belonging to Deepak, who has motor neurone disease.WORDS: HANNAH DAVIES. PHOTOS: BBC, GETTY, ITV…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueWhat’s in store…NewCHRISTMAS AT LIBERTYMonday 20 December, 9pm C4★ There’s glitz, glamour and an official launch by the London Gay Men’s Chorus as department store Liberty throws open its doors in the hope of their most magical Christmas yet… with record sales to match! But it’s not all plain sailing. There’s concern that Liberty’s very first own-brand candles might not turn up in time, while their eye-watering £225 beauty Advent calendar fails to shift.If your budget doesn’t quite stretch to Liberty, you can find out what the supermarket has in store – literally! – in Sainsbury’s: Christmas Food Secrets (Sunday 19 December, 6pm, C4).WORDS: HANNAH DAVIES, NATASHA HOLT. PHOTOS: C4, ITV…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueChristmas kebabs…NewTHE HAIRY BIKERS GO NORTH FOR CHRISTMASWednesday 22 December, 8pm BBC2★ Si King and Dave Myers bring us a Christmas dinner with a twist, as the Hairy Bikers create a special northern feast for their nearest and dearest. To suit the tastes of three generations of their families, there are some turkey doner kebabs, gourmet marshmallows and Christmas puds that contain an incredible 21 ingredients! ‘Cooking at home for the people you love is a very important thing,’ says Si. ‘We forget about that in the modern world somewhat!’…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueDangerous OBSESSIONThe Lost DaughterNEWAvailable: New Year’s Eve Genre: One-off thriller Runs: 121minThe Crown’s Olivia Colman plays Leda Caruso, a middle-aged divorcée. Holidaying alone in Greece, her chance encounter with fellow holidaymaker Nina (Fifty Shades star Dakota Johnson) takes a dark turn when she’s forced to confront her past in this one-off thriller, based on the novel by Elena Ferrante.Leda – a prickly college professor and mum-of-two – is fleeing from her past demons and quickly becomes obsessed with Nina and her large, raucous family. Leda also has a close eye on Nina’s compelling relationship with her young daughter. While seeing them all so happy, Leda is overwhelmed by memories of the unconventional choices she made in early motherhood and the consequences they led to in her life.Troubled pastIn flashbacks, Jessie Buckley…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueAlso onBRITMASBritBox, available nowCatch up with a delicious assortment of classic festive specials, including all-time comedy greats such as The Good Life (1977, pictured) and Some Mothers Do ’Ave ’Em (1978), plus TV dramas like 1977’s A Christmas Carol.EMILY IN PARISNetflix, from Wed 22 Dec, 10 episodes as a box setLily Collins is back – yes, her job in Paris has been extended! Clueless as ever about life in France, she’ll also have some tough choices to make, especially when it comes to Gabriel (Lucas Bravo).THE WONDER YEARSStar on Disney+, from Wed 22 Dec, first three eps, then weeklyThis was a hit series that ran from 1988-93, and the reboot now features a black family from Alabama in the late 1960s during the civil-rights era, with actor Elisha Williams playing 12-year-old…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueClubbing together!Save Our Beautiful GameNEWAvailable: Holiday Tuesday 28 Dec Genre: Documentary Season: 1 Eps: 3 (released weekly) Runs: 60minFormer Liverpool and England striker Peter Crouch is going back to his roots to try to save a non-league football club in this new series. Crouchy spent a few weeks on loan at Dulwich Hamlet when he was a teenager, so when he heard the community-focused club in south London was on the verge of going out of business, he had to step in. ‘The pandemic has hit non-league teams like Dulwich really hard,’ says Peter. ‘I was doing anything I could to help, from coaching players to sorting new floodlights!’…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueSecret EXPOSED!Having decided to stick around in Walford to happily play dad to Sonia, Rocky reckons Tom Cotton, his real identity, is all but dead and buried.He’s told Dotty he no longer wants in on her plan to swipe Dot’s inheritance from Sonia, and has vowed to keep quiet about it as long as she makes sure her mum Sandy, who could spoil the secret, is kept at bay.‘Rocky thought he’d be there for a little while and he’d be gone, but it’s nothing like he expected,’ explains Brian Conley, who plays the softie swindler. ‘Now he’s in too deep and has fallen in love with so many people.’ConfessingOn Christmas Eve, Rocky’s stressing as he’s expected at Kathy’s and Sonia’s, and he doesn’t want to let either down. So when Sonia’s…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueI want you!Janine and Mick have become quite the team at The Vic. But while Mick’s committed to his wife Linda, Janine’s single and has a whopping crush on the married man.Living at the pub, Janine’s now got Mick on tap and she’s loving it. It’s the busy season for the landlord, which gives Janine the perfect chance to help – and to impress.But, much to Nancy and Shirley’s amusem*nt, keen Janine fails to raise even an eyebrow from Mick when she dons a sexy Santa’s helper outfit to assist with the grotto. And, embarrassingly, the kids’ pressies she’s organised for the event turn out to be complete rubbish!Undeterred, Janine’s ears prick up when she hears Mick might not be seeing Linda at Christmas.He understands just how Janine feels when she admits…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueTogether at Christmas!Tyrone took it on the chin when Phill told him he wanted to take Fiz and the girls away for Christmas. However, as the big day looms, the mechanic is dreading spending the day rattling around No.9 with Evelyn.So when Fiz, Hope and Ruby come barrelling in, it’s the best present ever!‘When the girls say they want to see their dad at Christmas, Fiz realises she can’t take them away,’ explains Jennie McAlpine, who plays the mum.Giddy with excitement, Ty lunges at Fiz for a Christmas kiss… But how will she respond – and will Phill find out?‘Tyrone’s behaviour is very childish but then Phill joins in, so by the end of Christmas, Fiz is in absolute despair with them both,’ comments Jennie.DeludedTy remains hopeful, however, revealing to his nan…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueHot new shows for 2022Four LivesBBC1Stephen Merchant plays serial killer Stephen Port in the three-parter based on the real-life murders of young men in Barking. Sheridan Smith co-stars.Trigger PointITVVicky McClure plays a bomb-disposal expert, with Adrian Lester as her fellow officer. Both risk their lives during tense counterterror operations.The Thief, His Wife and the CanoeITVEddie Marsan plays real-life con man John Darwin, who faked his own death and moved to Panama, where his wife Anne (Monica Dolan) soon joined him.AnneITVMaxine Peake stars as campaigner Anne Williams, who battled for justice after losing her son in the Hillsborough disaster of 1989.Happy ValleyBBC1The hit Yorkshire-set drama is back for a third series, with Sarah Lancashire playing troubled police officer Catherine Cawood alongside James Norton.The CrownNetflixImelda Staunton plays the Queen in season five, which sees the Royal…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueA Yuletide mystery…NewAGATHA RAISIN: KISSING CHRISTMAS GOODBYETue 21 Dec, 8pm Sky Max & Sky Showcase;
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueFestive fright!NewA GHOST STORY FOR CHRISTMAS: THE MEZZOTINTChristmas Eve, 10.30pm BBC2★ An engraving with a spooky secret provides the chills in this Christmas ghost story, adapted from an MR James tale by Mark Gatiss. It opens in 1922 at an English college, where Edward Williams receives a mezzotint depiction of a country house. When the image begins to change before his eyes, it seems dark forces are at work! ‘Christmas is all about looking to the past,’ says Rory Kinnear, who plays Edward. ‘So an MR James ghost story is perfect for this time of year!’…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueMammy’s tree crisis!NewMRS BROWN’S BOYSChristmas Day, 10.20pm BBC1★ Agnes Brown is facing a tree-less Christmas this year, thanks to a shortage of her favourite festive centrepiece. Can daft family friend Buster Brady come up with a solution to give Mammy the tree-mendous holiday season she deserves?‘Because of lockdown, there was no one to plant or pick the trees! You can’t even get them from China! So the hunt is on,’ reveals Brendan O’Carroll, star and creator of Mrs Brown’s Boys, who’s a massive fan of Christmas in real life. ‘I love Christmas – we go full out. Our house looks like you could visit Santa there. It’s like a Christmas grotto!’Elsewhere, Agnes joins the local church choir, but Father McBride issues a ban on people singing and dancing! Meanwhile, Buster (Danny O’Carroll)…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueChristmas spiritsNewGHOSTSThursday 23 December, 8.30pm BBC1★ An unexpected visitor causes turmoil at Button House in the Ghosts Christmas special. Mysterious Nicholas (Justin Edwards) is camping in the stately home’s grounds and while Mike (Kiell Smith-Bynoe) wants him to leave, Alison is keen to show some festive compassion.But the surprising reaction of Lady Button (Martha Howe-Douglas) leads to a revealing flashback of the stern Edwardian spectre’s early days with pushy mother Lavinia, played by guest star Jennifer Saunders…‘You’d expect Lady Button to be haughty about Nicholas but she’s not. We see how she didn’t get to control her own life,’ says Charlotte Ritchie, who plays Alison. ‘And Jennifer Saunders is iconic!’Great new stories daily at whattowatch.com/christmas-tv…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueBehind the laughterNewBILLY CONNOLLY: MY ABSOLUTE PLEASUREBoxing Day, 9.30pm ITV★ Legendary Glaswegian comedian Sir Billy Connolly invites cameras into his home in the Florida Keys to give us a glimpse of his life since his Parkinson’s diagnosis and stepping back from stand-up three years ago. Sir Billy will also share a personal selection of his most-loved stand-up routines, filmed during his tours, some of which have never been seen on TV. ‘The audience love being shocked and horrified,’ he says. ‘You’ve got to rattle the box every so often!’…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueMusical magic!NewALL STAR MUSICALSBoxing Day, 8pm ITV★ Former Corrie star Catherine Tyldesley is one of six celebrities taking centre stage to perform a song from a much-loved musical. Other celebs include Anita Rani, Ben Miller and Fern Britton, who’ll each compete to be voted champion by the audience as they perform hits from classic West End shows including Cats, My Fair Lady and The Rocky Horror Show. ‘Music lifts our hearts,’ says Catherine, who was mentored by Elaine Paige. ‘I think people will love the show.’Great new TV stories daily at whattowatch.com/christmas-tv…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueWigglySUPERHERO!NewSUPERWORMChristmas Day, 2.30pm BBC1★ Former Doctor Who and The Crown star Matt Smith is the voice of Superworm in the animation of Julia Donaldson’s bestselling children’s book. The story sees the wriggly superhero help his animal friends until he’s captured by greedy Wizard Lizard, and also features Olivia Colman as the narrator and Rob Brydon as the voice of Crow. ‘It’s a very charming tale of friendship and self-understanding,’ explains Matt.WORDS: NICK CANNON, CAREN CLARK, HANNAH DAVIES, TESS LAMACRAFT, JO LEWIS, IAN MACEWAN, SEAN MARLAND. PHOTOS: ALAMY, BBC, C4, CHANNEL 5, DREAMWORKS, UNIVERSAL, SKY, WARNER BROS…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueMy lovely Pudding!NewPAUL O’GRADY: FOR THE LOVE OF DOGS AT CHRISTMASChristmas Day, 5.30pm ITV★ There can’t be a better festive name for a dog than Pudding, the poorly Patterdale puppy that Paul O’Grady meets when he returns to Battersea for this moving special.Pudding came to Battersea after being involved in a traffic accident, which seriously damaged his leg, and his only hope was an operation to remove it. ‘Had his leg been seen to earlier, he probably wouldn’t have had to lose it,’ explains an emotional Paul. ‘Dogs are so resilient, though. I took him out a couple of days after his operation and he was full of it!’Paul also meets eight-year-old beagle Bella, and cross-breed pup Boo, who has terrible table manners!But Paul could have his own messy eating issues this…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueIt’s snow joke!NewTHE GREATEST SNOWMANChristmas Eve, 8pm C4★ Do you wanna build a snowman? Five fun-loving celebs certainly do, as they join this Bake Off-style snow-building competition, hosted by Sue Perkins. Join Benidorm’s Johnny Vegas, designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Love Island’s Dani Dyer, baking star Liam Charles and presenter Cherry Healey, who are all whisked away to an Alpine ski resort, where they’ll be challenged to carve snowy sculptures out of giant blocks of ice and thousands of tonnes of the white stuff, ending with an ultimate winner-takes-it-all test!‘Obviously, I know my way around the bright lights of Vienna but I’ve never been trusted with a mountain top before,’ admits Laurence. ‘It’s a wonderful opportunity!’…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueMusic and magic!EncantoNEWAvailable: Christmas Eve Genre: One-off musical animation Runs: 90minThe latest colourful animated Disney extravaganza is set in a remote Colombian village and tells the tale of an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, who each have a magical gift, from strength to healing and the ability to talk to animals. The exception is Mirabel, who was rejected by the magic at her coming-of-age ceremony. But when she discovers that the magic is on the wane and her family’s in danger, Mirabel knows she’s their last hope. The film’s music comes from Hamilton star Lin-Manuel Miranda, who wrote some of the songs for Disney hit Moana, while Brooklyn Nine-Nine’s Stephanie Beatriz lends her voice to Mirabel. ‘I cried when I saw sketches of what Mirabel was going to look like,’ she says. ‘As…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueSecrets and lies!Stay CloseNEWAvailable: New Year’s Eve Genre: Thriller Season: 1 Eps 8 Runs: 44-53minHot on the heels of 2020’s The Stranger, another of bestselling author Harlan Coben’s addictive novels has been turned into a gripping series on Netflix.Stay Close follows three people who are keeping big secrets from those closest to them. They are working mum Megan (Cush Jumbo), photographer Ray (Richard Armitage) and Broome (James Nesbitt), a detective. But when Megan’s friend Lorraine (Sarah Parish) reveals some shocking news, all three are caught up in the consequences.‘Megan is living what looks like quite a content life in the beautiful suburbs,’ says Cush. ‘But it starts to become clear that there are fractures beneath.’Meanwhile, Broome is investigating a disappearance that bears suspicious similarities to a missing persons case he worked on…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueLet theguessing begin!NewTHE MASKED SINGERITV★ The bonkers world of The Masked Singer is back for a third series and it’s just as wild as ever – but there are some new twists, too.There’s a brand new line-up of 12 famous faces singing in disguise behind some seriously wacky outfits that, this series, include Firework, Doughnut, Robo Bunny and Chandelier, and they’re all hoping to join Queen Bee (Nicola Roberts) and Sausage (Joss Stone) in the exclusive Masked Singer winners’ club.Puzzled panelJoel Dommett will once again be overseeing the proceedings as host, while the celebrities in the detective chairs on the panel are presenter Davina McCall, singer Rita Ora, chat-show favourite Jonathan Ross and comedian Mo Gilligan.Will they be able to guess the stars behind the masks?…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueBitter battle!Things are no better between Denise and Kim, who’s still heartbroken that her sister hushed up her husband’s murder.As Kim decides to move back to Scotland with the kids, can Denise find a way to make it up to her sibling and get justice for Vincent?Phil, of course, is at the centre of the grisly saga, and isn’t impressed when Denise restricts his access to their son, Raymond.As events unfold, Denise relents and allows him a moment with his little boy.But things take a turn as Kat gets wind of a secret plan and is tackled by Sharon, who senses she’s hiding something. As the pair discuss the matter, Phil is listening in and then tears off to have it out with Denise…Angry, Denise doles out a warning to Phil.…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueRunaway groom!With their relationship at breaking point following their fallout over his secret life, Curtis and Emma are in a mess on their wedding day.Having opened up about his disorder and his lies, Curtis can only hope he’s got through to Emma, who was floored to learn he’d invented his terminal heart condition.‘Factitious disorder is something that influences people’s every day decisions,’ explains Sam Retford, who plays Curtis. ‘It’s not malicious.’As Emma gets ready, she’s nervous about her decision to commit to him.Meanwhile, still in the dark about the shocking revelations, Steve tells Amy that Curtis doesn’t seem to have paid the funds into Oliver’s charity account, even though he gave him his bank card.As the Barlows wonder where the money has got to, Curtis is busily looking at flights online.All…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueIt’s a miracle!Kev’s worried the honeymoon bubble will burst when Abi tackles Christmas without Seb and her twins, Charlie and Lexi, who have been adopted and live in Australia. He’s also petrified about her finding out that Kelly is living and working in Weatherfield.Nina’s worried about that, too. Aware that Abi hates Kelly for her part in the killing of her son Seb, Nina is eager to explain what happened while Abi and Kev were away. But will Kelly’s horror story from the streets see Abi soften?Kev and Jack are thrilled when Abi insists they get into the festive spirit for Seb’s sake. But Kev’s good mood vanishes when Ty drops round some of Seb’s things he’s found in the flat. Among them is a jaw-dropping letter…After swearing Ty to secrecy, Kev…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueManpreet murdered?Meena’s desperate to convince Billy they’re great for each other. But with his ex Dawn cropping up all over the place, it’s not easy.Over Christmas, as the serial killer tries to get Dawn out of the way, horrified Manpreet is drawn into her web of lies – and ends up as her sister’s target!At first, Meena is delighted with herself when she lures Dawn’s ex, Alex, to Emmerdale and gets him to run away with his ‘maltreated’ son, Lucas.However, Meena’s plan backfires as Dawn turns to Billy for help and, in the emotion of the saga, they kiss and reconcile!Besotted Billy dumps Meena, who then claims she’s pregnant.When her baby bombshell fails to split the pair, Meena goes into evil overdrive, which is where Manpreet comes in.‘She quizzes Meena about…1 min
What's on TV|18-Dec-2021 Xmas Double issueYOUR STARSAries (21 March-20 April)Mars in direct motion focuses your energy on planning family events to enjoy. A surprise visitor in June is significant.☎ STARLINE: 0905 817 0426*Gemini (22 May-21 June)The New Year is full of possibilities, opportunities and even the love of a person you didn’t expect, as dreams come true.☎ STARLINE: 0905 817 0428*Leo (23 July-22 August)Your creative powers are heightened this year when you set yourself a big challenge. You will surprise those around you.☎ STARLINE: 0905 817 0430*Libra (23 Sep-22 Oct)October is an important month for you: it’s a new chapter in your life. A house move or new career path is possible.☎ STARLINE: 0905 817 0432*Sagittarius (22 Nov-20 Dec)You long for adventure, so this could be the year to travel. Immerse yourself in different cultures, viewing…2 min
