YOUR CHRISTMAS TV PLANNER
TV HIGHLIGHTS
SUNDAY
Ireland’s Fittest Family RTE One, 6.30pm
Only four of the 15 clans who started this year’s competition remain standing. Tonight they will put themselves through hell and back to find out which of them is worthy of the title. Jamie’s Easy Christmas Countdown, Channel 4, 8pm
There’s a seemingly endless list of celebrity chefs ready to air their festive specials, and Jamie Oliver is of course one of them. He guides viewers through his easy-to-follow recipes that are creative twists on old classics and offer stress-free alternatives to the usual chaos of Christmas dinner. The X Factor:
The Band — Live Final, Virgin Media 1, 8pm
We find out which of the hopefuls will be put together to forge the hottest new group in pop, as Simon Cowell and his fellow judges observe the singing hopefuls one final time. The Jonathan Ross Show, Virgin Media 2, 11pm
The host is joined by actor
Rebel Wilson and musician Jason Derulo, who both star in the upcoming Hollywood blockbuster Cats. As well as this, Jonathan chats to cricketer Jofra Archer, magician Penn Jillette and comedian Katherine Ryan. There’s also music from Keane, who perform their latest hit.
MONDAY
A Berry Royal Christmas, BBC One, 8.30pm
Veteran baking superstar Mary Berry looks to give back as part of her festive special, as she travels the UK meeting with a long list of charity workers who put in countless hours helping those less fortunate. Then, as a way of saying thank you for all of their tireless efforts, she prepares a mouth-watering feast for them. Along the way she is helped out by a number of well-known personalities and famous faces. Sticks and Stones, Virgin Media 1, 9pm
Gripping new drama. Thomas Benson’s job as a sales associate at Clayton Office Solutions is going well, until one fateful day when he botches an important sales pitch presentation to a potential new client. Now he feels as though his co-workers have turned against him, as their actions turn increasingly hostile. Responsible Child BBC Two, 9pm
This hard-hitting feature-length drama follows youngster Ray, who lives with older brother Nathan, mother Veronica and her abusive partner Scott. One day Scott goes too far, leading to drastic measures on Ray and Nathan’s part. They are arrested for his murder, but due to the law 12-year-old Ray can be given the same trial as his adult sibling. They must now defend their actions in an emotional and attention-grabbing case. The Young Offenders RTE 2, 9.30pm
Season two of the side-splitting comedy wraps up, as tensions rise ahead of the baby’s arrival. Orla suggests everyone goes on a weekend break together to ease the pressure, which proves to be a poor decision on her part.
TUESDAY
The Supervet at Christmas Channel 4, 8pm
We return to Professor Noel Fitzpatrick’s clinic for this festive special, where patients include an 11-year-old Shih Tzu, who has damaged discs that are causing major spinal cord and nerve pain. There’s also an 11-monthold German shepherd rescue puppy who can barely walk as a result of a severe hip problem. Home Rescue, RTE One, 8.30pm
This instalment of the home improvement show takes architect Roisin Murphy and builder Peter Finn to rural Co Laois, where they meet Dolores. She is fed up with the clutter that has taken over her abode, and hopes the team can sort it out. Gold Digger, BBC One, 9pm
The drama, starring Julia Ormond and Ben Barnes, comes to an end. As their wedding day approaches, Julia is having second thoughts. She believes that Benjamin killed the shopkeeper, and is ready to walk away from him. Can he convince her otherwise, or is this the end? Live at the Apollo: Christmas Special, BBC2, 10pm
Sara Pascoe welcomes us to this festive edition of the much-loved comedy show, as a packed crowd at London’s Hammersmith Apollo are eager to be left in stitches. Providing the laughs alongside Sara are Chris McCausland and musical double act Flo and Joan.
WEDNESDAY
Food Unwrapped:
Cracking Christmas Guide, Channel 4, 8pm
Jimmy Doherty, Kate Quilton, Matt Tebbutt and Helen Lawal are joined by a selection of special guests for this very seasonal look at the food we eat. Among topics designed to help viewers have a cheaper, faster and easier Christmas are a look at three different novel ways of cooking turkey and why we can’t stop dipping into variety boxes. My Grandparents’ War Channel 4, 9pm
In the final instalment of the series actor Carey Mulligan looks back at her family’s remarkable history during the Second World War. This includes a grandfather who was fast-tracked into the position of junior officer with the British Navy, a discovery that takes Carey to Japan to understand their wartime culture. The Apprentice BBC One, 9pm
After weeks of tough challenges, we’re down to the last two, and only one more task stands between one of them and Alan Sugar’s lucrative deal. Now they must launch their businesses and pitch them to industry experts, before Alan decides who gets the £250,000 investment. My Yellow Brick Road, RTE2, 9.30pm
This final episode takes the guides to Tallaght where they hope to help Catherine confront her ongoing struggles with anxiety and self-confidence issues. Garech Browne:
Last Days at Luggala RTE One, 9.35pm
This one-off documentary looks back on the life and work of Garech Browne, often considered one of the greatest modern patrons of the arts in Ireland.
THURSDAY
How to Cook Well at Christmas with Rory O’Connell RTE One, 7pm
The chef returns for a two-part festive special, in which he demonstrates simple ideas for taking the fuss out of that daunting Christmas dinner. In this opener, his recipes include a red onion, bacon and kale broth and a fresh take on a classic — turkey and romanesco pilaf with chilli and coriander. Heston’s Marvellous
Menu: Back To The Noughties, BBC2, 9pm
Restaurant critic Giles Coren challenges Heston Blumenthal to transport the menu at his highly-acclaimed restaurant back to 2001 — the year he opened its doors — with the help of employees both past and present. The Big Soap Quiz:
Coronation Street v Emmerdale, Virgin Media 1, 9pm
Stephen Mulhern hosts as two teams made up of some of the biggest names in Soapland go head to head to see who knows more about what has been going on in their respective shows. Jack P Shepherd and Mark Charnock captain the squads, and will be looking to trump their rivals. Ireland’s Rich List: 21st Century Hotshots RTE2, 9.30pm
Host Richard Curran concludes his look at the top 50 self-made millionaires who have appeared on the illustrious Sunday Times Rich List since the year 2000.
FRIDAY
Cat Hospital, RTE One, 8.30pm
In the final episode of the series, Clare Meade and her team help felines in need including two feral foster kittens, who staff nurse Rachel wants to hand-rear back to health, and a black-andwhite cat who was hit by a truck. Brendan Grace —
A Late Late Show Tribute RTE One, 9.35pm
A touching tribute to the late entertainer, who was no stranger to the late-night chat show. Buble! RTE One, 10.50pm
Canadian crooner Michael Buble takes to the stage to perform a set of his biggest hits and timeless classics with the help of a bombastic 36-piece orchestra.
SATURDAY
The Hit List BBC One, 7.30pm
Marvin and Rochelle Humes present the final instalment of the quiz that tests the teams’ knowledge of famous songs and the artists who performed them. Tonight, three duos do battle to see if they can outdo the others and walk away with £10,000. Underdogs, TG4, 7.45pm
This year’s management team — former Kerry captain and manager Mickey ‘Ned’ O’Sullivan, Gaoth Dobhair legend and former Donegal footballer Kevin Cassidy and former Cork Ladies footballer Valerie Mulcahy — look back on the highs and lows of the latest series of the competition. Robbie Williams: Radio 2 in Concert, BBC Two, 10.25pm
The singer performs at the
BBC Radio Theatre in central London where he entertains a crowd with a selection of his most iconic tunes from across his back catalogue. As well as the hits he performs a number of festive classics from his latest release, The Christmas Present.
SUNDAY
His Dark Materials, BBC One, 8pm
The first series of this hit adaptation of the books by Philip Pullman concludes. Lyra still has a long journey ahead of her, and much to learn about Asriel. However, the Magisterium are growing ever closer. A Christmas Carol, BBC One, 9pm
Guy Pearce, Stephen Graham and Andy Serkis star in this threepart take of the timeless tale, which is given a chilling twist by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight. You think you know the haunting story of businessman Ebenezer Scrooge — think again. Escape to the
Chateau at Christmas, Channel 4, 9pm
Dick and Angel have seen another year at their gorgeous French property come and go, and in this one-off special they hope to pull of a festive feast for their friends, family and guests. Searching for Sam: Adrian Dunbar on Samuel Beckett, BBC Two, 9pm
To mark 30 years since the death of iconic Irish writer Samuel Beckett, actor Adrian Dunbar embarks on an eye-opening journey to learn about the artist whose words continue to inspire.
MONDAY
The Christmas Letter, RTE One, 6.30pm
A voice cast including Fiona
Shaw, Caitriona Balfe and Kate Winslet feature in this animated short. Eight-year-old Henry wants to bring Christmas cheer to as many homes as he can, but is stopped in his tracks when he comes across the gloomy abode of Miss Broom. She refuses to celebrate, but Henry has a plan. Donal’s Super Food In Minutes Christmas Special, RTE One, 8.30pm
Donal Skehan wraps up his latest series of his easy-to-follow recipe guides with a very festive special. Among the recipes he prepares are spiced duck with figs, a chilli and coconut, sweet potato and red lentil soup. Hugh Grant: A Life on Screen, BBC Two, 9pm
The veteran actor opens up about his career as an actor, discussing everything from starting out to his breakout appearance in Four Weddings and a Funeral and beyond. Celebrity Crystal
Maze: Christmas Special, Channel 4, 10pm
Richard Ayoade is back with a new gang of famous faces who think they have what it takes to conquer the tough challenges within the maze. Those looking to win big cash for charity are actor Catherine Tyldesley, Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas, choirmaster Gareth Malone, personality Scarlett Moffatt and comedian Nish Kumar.
CHRISTMAS EVE
The Tiger Who Came to Tea, Channel 4, 7.30pm
Sophie and Mummy find themselves in a ridiculous situation when a thirsty tiger calls in unannounced in this animated adaptation of Judith Kerr’s best-selling book. Benedict Cumberbatch, Tamsin Greig and David Walliams feature in the cast. Take Off with Bradley and Holly, BBC One, 8pm
Bradley Walsh and Holly Willoughby team up for this new feel-good entertainment show, as they offer lucky members of the audience a chance to win the trip of a lifetime to Lapland. Gareth Malone’s Christmas Concert, BBC Two, 9pm
The choirmaster returns for this one-off special. He looks to reward the hard-working staff at Watford General Hospital with a Christmas present they will never forget — their very own festive concert. To pull the ambitious project off he calls in the help of the staff ’s co-workers, families and patients to add a personal touch to the night of music. Carols from Kilkenny Castle, RTE One, 9.20pm
Mary Kennedy presents this year’s annual Christmas Eve carol service from Kilkenny Castle. Singers including Colm Wilkinson, Claudia Boyle, Ronan Tynan, Jack L, Roisin O and her new band Thanks Brother and Hudson Taylor perform along with the RTE Concert Orchestra, who are led by Mia Cooper and conducted by Jonathan Bloxham.
CHRISTMAS DAY
Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special, BBC One, 4.40pm
The dancing competition may be done for another year, but before the ballroom closes its doors until next time, six celebrities return in the hopes that they can walk away with the Christmas trophy. Making their way back into the competition are actor Chizzy Akudolu, personality Debbie McGee, actor Gemma Atkinson, YouTube star Joe Sugg, presenters Mark Wright and Richard Arnold, and their professional partners. Michael McIntyre’s Big Christmas Show, BBC One, 6pm
The comedian has a lot packed into this year’s Yuletide special, from top guests to silly sketches and a few surprises. The epic show features TV personality Sharon Osbourne, who plays a game of Send to All, and Craig Revel Horwood, who Michael wakes up for a round of Midnight Gameshow. One lucky audience member also receives a surprise. Gavin & Stacey Christmas Special, BBC One, 8.30pm
It has been far too long since the sitcom departed our screens, but the wait for an inevitable return is finally over. In this oneoff special, Gavin, Stacey, Nessa, Smithy and the whole gang are back, just in time to join in the Christmas festivities. However, Bryn has the intention of cooking a huge feast for 13 people, which means that the atmosphere is more than a little tense. Will it be a Christmas to remember for all the wrong reasons? Jamie and Jimmy’s Festive Feast, Channel 4, 8.30pm
Jamie Oliver and Jimmy Doherty return to their Southend Pier cafe to serve up some winter warmers to their hungry patrons. This time, actor Taron Egerton joins them to chat about his career, the food he loves and to help prepare a tantalising menu.
ST STEPHEN’S DAY
Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs Christmas Special, Virgin Media One, 6pm
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home opens its doors to the host once again. This time he helps out with the canines who have a variety of behavioural problems, including an American bulldog who has lost her mojo and an Akita who refuses to believe her owners have left her. Worzel Gummidge, BBC One, 6.20pm
This new drama for the whole family follows siblings Susan and John, who arrive to work at Scatterbrook Farm during a bad harvest. It is there that they encounter a walking, talking scarecrow and embark on a wild adventure that could totally change the farm’s fortunes. Big Fat Quiz of the Year, Channel 4, 9pm
Jimmy Carr is back again to test three teams of celebrities on what events they can remember from over the last 12 months. The duos are made up of Dara O’Briain, Maya Jama, Asim Chaudhry, Roisin Conaty, Richard Ayoade and Noel Fielding. Would I Lie to You? At Christmas, BBC One, 9.30pm
Rob Brydon hosts this special edition of the quiz that’s all about getting away with little — or in some cases some rather hefty — white lies. Looking to outdo each other are David Mitchell and his team presenter Liz Bonnin and actor and director Stephen Merchant, who take on fellow captain Lee Mack who is joined by TV personality Sharon Osbourne and Dr Ranj Singh.
FRIDAY
No Planet B:
The Day We Took The Dail, RTE One, 7.25pm
Three young people who were part of the Youth Assembly at
Dail Eireann as a way to raise awareness about climate change are the focus of this documentary, as they prepare to have their voices heard at the event. Ball & Boe:
A Very Merry Christmas, Virgin Media 1, 9pm
Michael Ball and Alfie Boe reunite to perform this very special festive concert. Expect to hear a number of Christmas favourites as well as some of their best-loved songs. They are also joined by guests including Shirley Bassey, Gregory Porter and others. Brendan Grace — Thanks for the Memories Concert, RTE One, 9.30pm
This special captures the heartwarming and entertaining concert that was held at Dublin’s Olympia Theatre in tribute to late great comedian Brendan Grace.
SATURDAY
Wisting, BBC Four, 9pm
Sven Nordin and Carrie-Anne Moss star in this new Norwegian crime drama. Senior detective William Wisting is called in after a body is discovered under a Christmas tree in a quiet Norwegian coastal town. He begins his investigation, but after the victim is identified as an American, Special Agent Maggie Griffin from the FBI gets involved. Now they must work together on a hunt for the killer. Graham Norton —
The Good Story Guide, Virgin Media 1, 9pm
The host is no stranger to handling unruly and overly-chatty celebrity guests. In this one-off special, he offers a behind-thescenes glimpse at his chat show, as he offers advice on how to tell a good story. Contributions also come from David Tennant, Bill Bailey, Rob Brydon and others.