What not to miss in the week ahead
Strictly Come Dancing Launch Show 2020
It’s been a depressing time for many, so how about a little sparkle to lift the nation’s mood? Luckily, we’ll be getting that courtesy of the latest run of this ratings juggernaut; it looked for a while as if there would be no Strictly this year, but the BBC has found a way to make it work, albeit over a shorter timespan – there will be just nine episodes rather than the usual 13. Tonight the pro- celeb partnerships, including the first same- sex duo, will be revealed. Judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse will also be present, although they won’t be offering any scores, they’re just going to cast their eye over the celebs as they take part in a group dance – the competition proper starts next week. Today, BBC1, 7: 50pm
The Singapore Grip
It’s the last episode of the series and the war is having a huge impact on everyone’s lives, not least Walter’s. He’s always had a firm grip on matters, but now seems lost, as if his grasp on reality is weakening – and surprisingly it’s Matthew who could turn out to be his saviour. Matthew is also desperate to keep Vera safe so, as danger looms large on the horizon, he finds a way to help her escape from Singapore – but will it turn out to be too little too late? David Morrissey, Luke Treadaway and Elizabeth Tan head the cast.
Tomorrow, STV, 9pm
Who Do You Think You Are?
Actor, comedian, author and presenter David Walliams is the latest famous face to trace his lineage in the genealogy series, and he’s delighted to learn that being an entertainer is something that runs in his family.
It’s on travelling from his hometown in Surrey to the First World War Battlefields of Belgium that he finds out more about his great- great grandfather who, after becoming blind, forged a new career for himself as a travelling entertainer.
A more tragic story emerges, however, about his paternal great grandfather’s experiences following the Great War, when he returned with such severe combat PTSD ( or “shellshock”, as was the term) that he couldn’t go back home to his young family.
Monday, BBC1, 9pm
Diana: The Truth Behind the Interview
The Royal Family has weathered several controversies over the last year, and it’s not getting any easier for the Windsors with this documentary timed to coincide with the 25th anniversary of Princess Diana’s bombshell Panorama interview.
Watched by 21 million people when it aired in 1995, the late Princess talked candidly to reporter Martin Bashir about her husband’s extramarital affairs, questioned Prince Charles’s suitability to be King, and admitted to her own relationship with James Hewitt. As well a rebroadcasting parts of the interview, this programme looks at the years leading up to the interview and how it put the future of the monarchy in jeopardy.
Wednesday, Channel 4, 9pm
Secret Scotland with Susan Calman
Susan explores Aberdeenshire and Angus on Scotland’s north- east coast – a vast area of cliffs, beaches, rolling hills and fertile farmland. She begins her journey with an exclusive visit to Glamis Castle, the childhood home of Her Majesty the Queen Mother, and hangs out at the spot where the largest non- breeding collection of grey seals on the Scottish mainland have set up home. Then, it is time for a little magic as she conjures up the incredible story of the Aberdonian who inspired the great Harry Houdini.
Friday, Channel 5, 8pm