Our alternative CHRISTMAS TV guide
Hoping to mix it up from the usual fare (cough, Mrs Brown’s Boys)? We’ve got you covered till January
Don’t Rock The Boat In a sentence…
Twelve celebrities row the length of Britain while competing in challenges.
Vibe?
Celebrity Island With Bear Grylls crossed with SAS: Who Dares Wins.
Who’s in it?
It’s hosted by Freddie Flintoff and The Voice’s AJ Odudu (both below). Jack Fincham and Fleur East compete.
When to watch?
After your Boxing Day meal of leftovers, AKA day three of wearing pyjamas. ITV, November
Bridgerton In a sentence…
The story of the wealthy Bridgerton family in 1800s London as they navigate the demands of high-society and the “marriage mart” that comes with it.
Vibe?
Downton Abbey.
Who’s in it?
Nicola Coughlan and Adjoa Andoh, and it’s narrated by Julie Andrews.
When to watch?
When you’re drunk enough to tolerate names like Hyacinth and Prudence. Netflix, Christmas Day
The Prom In a sentence…
Ryan Murphy’s adaptation of a musical in which a cast of Broadway eccentrics help two students who are rejected from their high-school prom for being lesbians.
Vibe?
Glee.
Who’s in it?
Nicole Kidman, Meryl Streep (below), James Corden.
When to watch?
Every morning in December so you know the lyrics verbatim by the New Year. Netflix, December
His Dark Materials SERIES 2 In a sentence…
Adapted from the second book in the Philip Pullman series, it picks up where we left off, following Lyra Belacqua as she searches for her father.
Vibe?
Sherlock.
Who’s in it?
Hamilton genius Lin-Manuel Miranda returns, plus Fleabag’s hot priest Andrew Scott joins the cast.
When to watch?
Alone. It’s detailed – not something you’ll want to explain to the grandparents (over and over). BBC, November
Jingle Jangle In a sentence…
A Christmas musical about a toy maker, Jeronicus Jangle, who, along with his granddaughter, plans to change their lives with one invention.
Vibe?
The Greatest Showman.
Who’s in it?
Forest Whitaker, Hugh Bonneville, newcomer Madalen Mills… and it’s co-produced by John Legend.
When to watch?
Christmas Eve. If anything can break up an argument, it’s this. Netflix, 13th November