PICKS OF THE DAY
Film: Rocky, ITV4, 9pm
This is where the Rocky franchise – sadly still limping along years after it should have been put to bed – began. Fresh-faced Philadelphia brawler Rocky Balboa gets a shot at the world heavyweight title when current champion Apollo Creed decides to give an unknown boxer a chance in celebration of America’s bicentennial. Oscar-winning drama, starring Sylvester Stallone (left) in the title role with support from Burgess Meredith, Talia Shire, Burt Young and Carl Weathers.
Technology: The Gadget Show, Channel 5, 7pm
The GS team (all above) leave us for a while after tonight but not until after Georgie Barrat tests out the world’s first VR bungee jump and Jon Bentley heads back to school to see which dishwasher is best for removing congealed gravy and custard. Back in the studio, Jon, Georgie and Ortis Deley unbox one of the most exciting pieces of tech to hit the shelves this year. Hopefully see you again soon, guys!
Music: Ball & Boe: A Very Merry Christmas, ITV, 9.30pm
The talent Michael Ball and Alfie Boe have is staggering and it is no wonder their inspiring collaboration has proved to be so successful. After the huge acclaim of their previous albums and sell-out tours, Ball and Boe (both left) reunite for a festive night of music. Talk about all some people might want for Christmas. Showcasing both their unique blend of extraordinary talent and infectious humour, the duo perform exciting new material alongside some Christmas favourites, as well as singing with special guests Shirley Bassey, Luke Evans and Gregory Porter. Do not miss this Christmas telly special.
Soap: Coronation Street, ITV, 7.30pm
Carla and Roy (David Neilson, above) return to Nina’s flat and through the locked door he shares memories of his lonely childhood with her. He’s encouraged when she replies through the letterbox – could they be about to make peace? Robert’s court hearing is delayed when new information comes to light while Gary gets wind of the plan Derek has to sell off the factory.
Animals: Mountain Vets, BBC2, 7pm
A calf born with a rare condition is brought in to see vet Martin Fitzpatrick at Castle Vets, where head nurse Julie Hurst advises the owners of seven-year-old cat Paws, whose weight has been steadily increasing. Vet Aidan O’Hare heads out to see Limousin bull Navarn, who has mysteriously gone lame. It is a blow to his owners because if he can’t be successfully treated, he will have to be sold for meat at a serious loss. We also see vet Rachael Frew (right) at work.