PICKS OF THE DAY
Documentary: Dispatches, Channel 4, 10pm
With two thirds of British Covid deaths coming after September 2020, Dispatches investigates examines what role Boris Johnson played in there being a second surge in infections that killed tens of thousands. Reporter Antony Barnett hears from some at the heart of Downing Street, and learns why Boris ignored scientific advice. The show probes the border plans to stop variants coming into the UK and reveals the views of a whistleblower. Featuring Dr Erik Volz (left).
Sitcom: Motherland, BBC2, 9pm
The parents face the merry-go-round of secondary school open days as they decide where to send their children. Julia is worrying about which catchment area she lives in and is considering a fake religious conversion to beat the system. As Kevin’s divorce gets underway, Liz helps him deal with the lawyers, and makes a daunting discovery, while Amanda grapples with playing second fiddle to Meg’s illness.
Comedy: Inside No 9, BBC2, 9.30pm
In tonight’s episode of the black comedy anthology series, screenwriter Spencer is feeling sorry for himself having just lost out on an award for the season finale of his fantasy epic The Ninth Circle. Returning home to his apartment, the already-glum Spencer manages to make matters worse for himself when he lets in lets in obsessive fan Simon, a devotee of the series. Although even Simon thinks the finale was disappointing, he also believes there is a solution and wants to try to put things right. Written by and starring Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith (both left), also featuring guest appearances from Nick Mohammed and Lindsay Duncan.
Film: The Imitation Game, Film4, 6.45pm
Based on the real-life story of mathematician Alan Turing, whose work during the Second World War translated seemingly unbreakable Nazi codes as well as pioneering the development of technology. In the years after the war, his life would be destroyed as his homosexuality was discovered, leaving him facing criminal charges. Starring Benedict Cumberbatch (above middle) and Keira Knightley (above left).
Soap: Coronation Street, ITV, 7.30pm
Natasha (Rachel Leskovac, right) lands herself in spot of bother tonight. Gail is cleaning Natasha’s house, but when Natasha returns to collect Sam she is baffled to spot her expensive bracelet in Gail’s bag. She accuses Gail of stealing but will it all turn out to be a big misunderstanding? Elsewhere, Ronnie has given Ed’s campervan a makeover and enlists Jenny’s help with the surprise. Meanwhile, Daisy sets her sights on Sean’s mate Carol.