BEST OF THE REST
THE CRYSTAL MAZE: CELEBRITY SPECIAL Channel 4, 9pm
THIS is becoming a bit of a weekly must-see entertainment fix. We’re not sure whether it’s simply because it’s nostalgic, but the multi-layered game combined with host Richard Ayoade’s unrelenting sarcasm is highly watchable.
“These people call themselves celebrities,” says Richard, introducing this week’s competitors.
We have the team captain, presenter Andrea McLean, reality star Spencer Matthews, comedian Tom Allen, presenter Stacey Solomon and actor and presenter Joe Swash.
As ever, their hopes are high and the Maze Master’s expectations are low.
But we learn some fun facts. Did you know Stacey used to work in a fish and chip shop called Oh My Cod? And, more bizarrely, Joe refuses to wear pants when he’s abroad.
Anyway, back to the game and there’s a riddle involving peppers, aubergines and bananas that leaves them all looking perplexed. Watch out for Jessica Hynes in a cameo as a knight.
And then enjoy as they generally run around the maze screeching and highfiving, all the while trying to pull off the grey jumpsuit look – another impossible task.
EAT, SHOP, SAVE ITV, 7.30pm
CHICKEN dippers and smiley faces – a meal fit for a king, at least in the eyes of fussy kids everywhere. But it’s not the healthiest of options.
This new series sees presenter and journalist Ranvir Singh give families an eight-week challenge to get fitter, eat better, and save money on their shopping, all at the same time.
And the first to face the challenge is the Harling family from Manchester. Working mum Lorraine struggles to deal with her three fussy kids who refuse to eat anything that isn’t processed freezer food. Jamie Oliver, look away now.
“Would you be willing to try different types of vegetables?” Ranvir asks Lorraine’s 10-year-old daughter. “Yeah, purple ones,” she replies. Well, that’s a start.
Lorraine, widowed four years ago when her husband died from a heart attack, also needs more time for herself to exercise.
Ranvir rallies the troops – chef and nutritionist Dale Pinnock, finance guru Gemma Godfrey and fitness consultant Tom Pitfield. It’s more emotional than you might think as the Harlings try to overhaul their lives.