PICK OF THE WEEK

Although it is still unknown exactly where the coronavirus outbreak first started, many early cases were attributed to people who have visited the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market, located in Wuhan, Hubei, China. On February 11 last year, the World Health Organization (WHO) named the disease Covid-19, short for coronavirus disease 2019, and soon the pandemic spread across the world, infecting and killing millions of people. This documentary explores the spread of the disease across four continents during 2020. Medical professionals take a look back at the initial outbreak in China, with suggestions that the authorities attempted to cover up the danger.

Silenced: The Hidden Story of Disabled Britain (BBC2, 9pm)

Prepare to be shocked, horrified and moved by this documentary from writer, actor and CBeebies presenter Cerrie Burnell. Born without the lower part of her right arm, Bernell was shocked to discover that some parents thought her appearance would scare her core audience of youngsters. Now she’s investigating where such attitudes come from, and why they persist today. It’s a journey that takes her back in time to the Victorian era, a period in which the disabled were often workhouse residents living under terrible conditions. But on a more positive note, Bernell hears the stories of pioneers who helped create change before finding out which battles still need to be won.

Staged (BBC1, 9.45pm)

In last night’s episode, David and Michael continued to butt heads as they were forced to read with various new potential cast members. Tonight, the project is in real danger, as Simon hears desperate news from Georgia via Lucy, and tries yet again to get the bickering acting duo to work together. However, it ultimately falls to a final pair of new potential cast members to offer David and Michael a new perspective on their friendship. But is it too late to save the play? As has been the case in most of the shows so far, keep your eyes peeled for some big-name cameos.

WEDNESDAY

President Biden: The Inauguration (BBC1, 4pm)