+ Top 7 Shows of the week

The RTÉ Sports Awards, Saturday, RTÉ One

The cream of Irish sports assemble for the prizegiving. 2018 has been a terrific year for Irish women’s hockey, men’s rugby, Dublin football, Limerick hurling and the peerless Katie Taylor.

Death on the Tyne, Saturday, GOLD

Following his success with last year’s Murder on the Blackpool Express, Johnny Vegas is back for more murder and mayhem, this time on a cruise ship on the Tyne. The cast includes Sian Gibson, Doon Mackichan and Sue Johnston.

Ireland’s Fittest Family, Sunday, RTÉ One

Croke Park is the venue for the four families who survived the challenges to make it to the Grand Final. Kathryn Thomas brings us all the drama. See interview with Derval O’Rourke on page 6.

Sports Personality of the Year 2018, Sunday, BBC One

A sensational year of British sport is celebrated, as Gabby Logan, Clare Balding and Gary Lineker present this year’s event, live from Birmingham.

Today with Maura and Dáithí, Mon-Fri, RTÉ One

For the week that’s in it, Maura and Dáithí are back with extra helpings. They are joined by chefs including JP McMahon, and our own Catherine Fulvio. See feature page 10.

Passions, Monday, Sky Arts

Marc Almond takes a journey through the life of one of the 20th-Century’s most enduring stars, Judy Garland. The singer pieces together the poignant last days of a woman whose talent was legendary but whose troubles were many.

A Simply Delicious Christmas, Tuesday & Wednesday, RTÉ One

Rory O’Connell and Darina Allen are back with a new recipe show. Today, Rory prepares seasonal dishes to jolt jaded palates, including a turkey and Swiss chard tart. See interview page 8.