PICK OF THE WEEK

SATURDAY

Eliud Kipchoge: My Sub Two Hour Marathon (BBC1, 1.15pm)

The Kenyan long-distance runner is an extraordinary athlete. He started out competing over 5,000m, winning bronze and silver medals at the Olympics in 2004 and 2008 before deciding to switch to the ultimate test of endurance – the marathon. In the years since Kipchoge has won the London Marathon four times, as well as races in other major cities and broken the world record. Last year, during a special event in Vienna, he became the first person to record a sub-two hour marathon. He discusses his remarkable achievement and what keeps him motivated, while those who know him describe what makes Kipchoge so special during a tour of his training camp. Perfect for those missing their Park Run fix.

Twins (BBC4, 9pm)

The dark Norwegian drama reaches its conclusion tonight via another double-bill of episodes that’s sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Frank is like a dog with a bone – there is no way he’s going to give up his private investigation into his friend’s death without getting to the truth. He’s missing one vital piece of evidence, and while Ingrid desperately battles to prevent everything from crashing down around her, Erik does what he can to halt Frank’s progress. Meanwhile, Karin and Alfred are dangerously close to revealing the truth, forcing Ingrid to step in and save the day. Then, as Erik starts to think he can look to the future at last, he’s forced into a big decision.

Becoming Matisse (BBC2, 9.15pm)

Even if you’re unfamiliar with his name, you will have seen an example of Henri Matisse’s work. He’s famous for his almost childlike colourful cut-outs, which have been reproduced thousands of times and sold as decorative posters across the globe. They may now be accepted by the wider world, but in the early part of the 20th century, Matisse was regarded as a rebel, whose work and involvement in public scandals often hit the headlines. In an eye-opening documentary, his greatgranddaughter, Sophie Matisse, charts the artist’s life via interviews, animations and Matisse’s own letters and diary entries. She discovers the truth about his problematic relationship with his family and how issues in his formative years influenced his later work.

Princess Anne: The Daughter Who Should Be Queen (C5, 9.15pm)

Royal watchers know where to go if they want to get their fix of the House of Windsor and its members – Channel 5 on Saturday evenings. The station has broadcast numerous royalthemed documentaries over the past few weeks, and here’s another. This time, as you’ve probably already guessed from the title, the focus is on the Queen’s only daughter, Princess Anne. In more recent years, she has largely stayed out of the limelight as younger relatives have taken centre stage, but hers has

been a remarkable life; she was the first member of her family to participate in the Olympics, and survived a kidnapping attempt. Here, archive footage and interviews with insiders help paint a portrait of the private woman behind the public facade.

All Round to Mrs Brown’s (BBC1, 9.15pm)

Mrs Brown’s Boys creator, writer and star Brendan O’Carroll dons Agnes’s famous cardigan and curly wig once again as he throws open the doors of the larger-than-life Irish matriarch’s home to host the Saturday night chat show. In the sixth and final episode of the series, Agnes and her family are joined on the show by chat show host Jonathan Ross, barrister Rob Rinder, along with his mum Angie, and veteran singers the Nolans. Plus, Fleur East performs her latest single live in Foley’s. Last in the series.

SUNDAY

The 1981 London Marathon: A Historical First (BBC1, 2pm)

In March 1981, the very first London marathon was held, with just over 7,000 entrants taking part in the race. while nearly 40 years on there are now more than 40,000 participants, making it one of the biggest and best-loved events in the sporting calendar. This special programme looks back at that historic first staging of the event, reliving the remarkable

finish to the men’s race, which ended in a dead heat, and all observed through the backdrop of how London looked then.

Van Der Valk (STV, 8pm)

Those of a certain age (or who are keen viewers of nostalgia channel Talking Pictures TV, where the original series has been airing recently) will immediately think of Barry Foster when the name of novelist Nicolas Freeling’s Dutch detective is mentioned. He played the character across several series in the 1970s and during its return in the early 1990s. But it’s Marc Warren who’s stepping into his shoes for a new series comprising of three feature-length episodes, all shot on location in Amsterdam.

The opening edition takes place against the backdrop of a forthcoming election. Piet Van Der Valk and his team are faced with two mysterious deaths that appear to be linked to the local art scene.

Primates (BBC1, 8.15pm)

It’s time to stop monkeying around, settle down and tune into the latest in the BBC’s long line of fascinating nature programmes. This time the broadcaster is offering what it’s describing as ‘the definitive portrait of a hugely charismatic family of animals, to which we all belong’. Those are, of course, primates, a diverse but resourceful group that has made its home in all manner of places across the world, from deserts to jungles, and grasslands to bustling cities. More than 400 species of ape, monkey and lemur make up the primate family, including colossal gorillas to tiny creatures no longer than your finger. They can use tools, solve problems, are emotional, thoughtful and caring. Across the first two episodes we’ll see evidence of all of those, while the third and final edition focuses on how experts are working to keep them safe.

Stacey Dooley: Costa del Narcos (BBC2, 9pm)

The investigative reporter’s latest case takes her to southern Spain – a place best known for its beaches and sunshine – which has become the main gateway for drugs into Europe. This disturbing state of affairs has led to violent turf wars between gangs and a government crackdown as the police struggle to regain control of their streets. Dooley goes on aerial patrol with police officers guarding the strip of water between Morocco and Spain. It turns out to be a truly eye-opening experience as she discovers first hand the extraordinary lengths smugglers will take to evade them, including travelling at 100mph in speedboats during extreme weather conditions in the middle of the night – putting their lives in jeopardy in the process.

Killing Eve (BBC1, 9.15pm)

Bet you didn’t see the events of the first episode coming, did you? But then again, that’s always been the beauty of Killing Eve – you can never quite predict what’s going to happen, probably because the central character is an unhinged psychopath. Poor Kenny. He was always one of the more pleasant people involved in the murky world of espionage; he probably wasn’t cut out for it, if truth be known. He certainly didn’t deserve to be thrown off the roof of a tall building. Kenny’s murder has left Eve and Carolyn reeling – the latter, usually so unruffled, is stunned, but seeing as she was his mother, she should be. Eve decides to investigate by teaming up with her friend’s journalistic colleagues. Villanelle, meanwhile, realises she isn’t cut out for management.

MONDAY

Museums in Quarantine (BBC4, 7.30pm)

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to the closure of museums across Britain, but this series is here to help give viewers an idea of what they could have seen. It begins with Alastair Sooke examining Tate Modern’s Andy Warhol retrospective, which was due to run until September and was the museum’s first exhibition of his work in nearly 20 years. It covers the influential artist’s fascination with advertising, pop music and commerce, but while he may be best known for his prints, Sooke also looks at his long-running commitment to experimental film and TV.

Grayson’s Art Club (C4, 8pm)

New series. At this time of crisis, Grayson Perry sets out to bring people together through art. Every week, the Turner Prize-winning artist hosts the show from his studio, where he creates new pieces, leads masterclasses and finds out how other artists, creatives and celebrities have been spending their time in isolation. He also encourages artists and viewers alike to produce visual representations of this unique time, at the end of which he plans to display the art in an exhibition chronicling the changing moods of Britain in isolation.

Normal People (BBC1, 9pm)

At first it was suggested that Irish writer Sally Rooney’s hit romantic novel Normal People would be ideal source material for a lush feature film. However, the book has been adapted in a 12-part TV drama, and over the next few weeks, we will track the tender but complicated relationship of Connell (Paul Mescal) and Marianne (Daisy Edgar-Jones).

Tonight’s opening double-bill begins at a school in the west of Ireland, where Connell is a well-liked and athletic student. Marianne, meanwhile is a proud, intimidating and unpopular loner who actively avoids her classmates. However, an attraction sparks between the pair when Connell comes to collect his mother Lorraine, who works as a cleaner at Marianne’s house.

Blood (C5, 9pm)

Even though the first run of this twisty-turny psychological drama ended on a brilliant note, there were still quite a few questions left unanswered. In tonight’s second season premiere, charming yet creepy surgeon Jim Hogan (Adrian Dunbar) returns home after a year away to find his eldest daughter Fiona facing the same affliction – Motor Neuron Disease – as her mother, and her husband Paul struggling. Jim’s efforts to make amends only to add to their grief, and things become even more difficult when he stumbles upon suspicious activity at the farm where Paul works. When Fiona’s car veers off the road and crashes into a canal, her family gathers round to support her. But they are shocked to their core when Detective Dez Breen arrives with news of a disturbing discovery. As Fiona is brought in for questioning, we flashback to the events of the preceding weeks.

Beat the Chasers (STV, 9pm)

New series. Bradley Walsh hosts a spin-off from The Chase in which contestants take on two, three, four or all five of the quiz’s resident experts Mark Labbett, Anne Hegerty, Paul Sinha, Jenny Ryan and Shaun Wallace at once. Members of the audience are called out to face five multiple choice questions, with the chance to bank up to £5,000, but if they get the first question wrong they are out. Next, contestants are given the option of playing between two and all five Chasers for increasing amounts of money, but with a decreasing time advantage against them.

TUESDAY

The Architecture the Railways Built (Yesterday, 8pm)

Tim Dunn has a passion for both architecture and railways, which have a closer relationship than you might think. In this new series, he’s celebrating the often radical designs and difficult constructions behind European stations, but is also venturing beyond them to visit other buildings that owe their existence to the railways. In the first episode, he checks out the disused tube station Down Street in Mayfair, which played a pivotal role in the Second

World War, and tours Rotterdam’s new central station with the man who designed it.

The Village (STV, 8pm)

New series. Documentary following a year in Portmeirion, the village in north Wales made famous by cult TV series The Prisoner. It may look like an ancient Italian settlement, but this remarkable place was created between 1925 and 1973 by the visionary architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. The first episode introduces the men and women who work maintaining the popular tourist destination, led by Williams

Ellis’s grandson, Robin Llywelyn, and reveals how they keep Portmeirion in tip-top condition.

How to Keep Your Dog Happy at Home (STV, 8.30pm)

These are confusing times for dogs. While most of the family is at home and it’s time to play, you’re only allowed out for one walk a day, and you can’t head to the countryside or park for a long run around. So as 10 million UK dogs start to get a bit bored, this series, narrated by Martin Clunes, is packed full of inspirational stories of how to bond with your dog and tips on how to keep them entertained, happy and healthy at home. Tonight’s first episode looks at how different breeds need different amounts of exercise. We meet Jet, the rescue Border Collie whose owner has taught her tricks to burn off energy. Plus, Ben Fogle explores dog yoga with his retriever Storm and Gaby Logan and her family discover their boxer’s hidden talent – jumping.

Paul Hollywood Eats Japan (C4, 9pm)

This new series was originally planned to give viewers a taster of Japanese cuisine ahead of the Olympics in Tokyo. Sadly, the Games have been postponed for a year, but thankfully Channel 4 are still broadcasting Paul’s culinary adventure in the Land of the Rising Sun. The Bake Off judge has never been to Japan and always thought it was a land without bread. But he soon discovers just how wrong he was. The trip begins in Tokyo, the largest megacity on earth which has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other world city. However, Paul isn’t interested in the stars and sushi, instead finding out about the Japanese obsession with pot noodles, and sampling the practices of solo dining and solo karaoke. He also embraces their love of themed restaurants including one where he’s locked up in a prison cell and even sniffs out an extraordinary bakery.

Our Girl (BBC1, 9pm)

Georgie returns to active duty in Afghanistan in the run-up to election day, and discovers that the fake Omar being held in custody has admitted to being a decoy. Georgie is advised to keep a low profile following her recent troubles, but after an assassination attempt on a US dignitary, she realises what is really going on – Elvis’ killer is closer to home than she thought and planning a devastating attack. Mimi comes to terms with her past, Throbber earns his stripes, and Dr Bahil looks to the future. Last in the series.

WEDNESDAY

The Repair Shop (BBC1, 7.30pm)

Gramophone guru Tim Weeks takes on the repair of an antique wooden phonograph, brought into the Repair Shop by Nicola Dean, whose father was an avid collector. This particular model was his prized possession and the centrepiece of his collection. However, it suffered badly in a collision with a group of over-enthusiastic small children, and the distinctive wooden horn has become separated from the main body of the item. Plus, upholsterer Sonnaz Nooranvary is faced with an unusual challenge when an armchair is brought in, and Steve Fletcher takes on a battered old miner’s lamp, which once saved the life of its owner Hubert John.

Absolutely India: Mancs in Mumbai (STV, 8pm)

The Thomas brothers are already familiar to viewers – Ryan and Adam played Coronation Street’s Jason Grimshaw and Emmerdale’s Adam Barton respectively, while Scott is a former resident of Love Island. Now we’re getting a glimpse into their family dynamic as they join their dad Dougie to search for their Indian roots and learn more about their beloved

grandfather, Nolan Thomas. He spent his early years in Mumbai before emigrating to the UK in 1947, so that’s where the boys are starting, and as Ryan soon points out, it’s very different to their Manchester home. By their own admission, they are ‘wimpy’ when it comes to spices at home, but the brothers try out some fiery local concoctions, while their dad pays a visit to Nolan’s former school and makes a startling discovery.

The Great British Sewing Bee (BBC1, 9pm)

The contestants are asked to insert an invisible zip and pockets on a pair of palazzo pants, while the judges keep a keen eye on how well they pattern-match the bold prints. For the

transformation challenge, the sewers must turn towels into stylish beach cover-ups in just 90 minutes. Male models arrive in the Sewing Room for the final challenge, ready to be fitted with a made-to-measure holiday shirt using bright and colourful fabrics. Whose shirt will bring on the sunshine, and who will be sent packing?

What’s It Like to Catch Coronavirus? (C4, 9pm)

Some estimates claim that up to 80 per cent of population may catch Covid-19, but the symptoms can affect individuals in very different ways. So what it is really like to catch the virus and what signs should we be looking

out for? To find out, Channel 4 has given cameras to people across the UK so they can film their personal battles against the illness and discuss their experiences. Experts are also on hand to offer their advice. However, for some of those affected, coronavirus isn’t the only problem they have to face. This programme also offers an insight into what it is like for victims who are dealing with Covid-19 in isolation, asking how their mental health has been affected by being alone at what is often a very frightening time.

Mr Winner (BBC2, 10pm)

The likeable sitcom concludes on the day of Jemma and Leslie’s wedding, and in theory all the groom has to do is to get to the venue on time and in one piece. However, when he becomes worried that his bride is getting cold feet, he decides that instead of meeting her at the altar, he greets her at the castle gates for a heart to heart.

THURSDAY

Spring at Jimmy’s Farm (C4, 8.05pm)

In any other year, as spring arrives on Jimmy Doherty’s farm, his 280-acre park would be teeming with families, eager to see his collection of exotic animals. But 2020 is no ordinary year, and while there are no guests, his animals still need looked after. This documentary offers an insight into how Jimmy and his team are managing. In the first episode, lambs, goats and reindeer are all due to give birth, a camel needs to find its mate and Jimmy builds hides and nesting boxes to keep an eye on what the badgers, birds and fish are getting up to.

Secrets of Your Supermarket Food (C5, 8.05pm)

It is thought that more than seven million tons of food is thrown away every year as a result of confusion over food labelling. Here, Environmental Health Officer Gareth Jones helps decipher the difference between ‘best before’, ‘use by’ and ‘display until’. Sian Williams investigates the safety of supermarket pork, and Stefan Gates finds out about the challenges facing the Scottish salmon industry and also tests the difference between fresh and frozen fish.

Lockdown: Britain’s Fly Tipping Problem Tonight (STV, 8.30pm)

The headlines have understandably concentrated on the health crisis, but this documentary looks at one of the unexpected problems that has cropped up over the past few weeks. Fly tipping costs tens of millions to clean up and is a huge problem across the UK. But it could be getting worse in lockdown. With some council tips shut and many authorities operating a skeleton waste collection service, some people are simply dumping their rubbish illegally. Jonathan Maitland investigates.

The Real Marigold Hotel (BBC1, 9pm)

It’s a good week for documentaries about British celebrities in India. Not only are former soap actors Adam and Ryan Thomas are heading there in ITV’s Absolutely India: Mancs in Mumbai, but a group of veteran celebrities are also visiting the country to find out what it would be like to retire there in the fourth series of The Real Marigold Hotel. Britt Ekland, Duncan Bannatyne, Zandra Rhodes, Paul

Elliott (better known as Paul Chuckle), Henry Blofeld, John Altman, Susie Blake and Barbara Dickson get their first taste of their potential new lifestyle as they take the bus to Puducherry and their home by the sea. It’s a bumpy introduction, but the group seem determined to make the most of the experience, even if Britt is struggling with the heat and Paul is struck down by an upset stomach.

FRIDAY

Joe Lycett’s Got Your Back (C4, 8pm)

The comedian fights the good fight on behalf of the public, tackling viewers’ consumer problems, no matter how big or small. In this edition, Made in Chelsea’s Jamie Laing helps Joe launch the UK’s first ever consumer rights rave, while the show’s fearless assistant Mark Silcox tests the slogan of a high street bank. Joe also infiltrates hackable smart tech and launches a musical raid on the offices of the world’s largest online retailer.

The World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys (C5, 8pm)

New series. A trip beginning in Inverness and soon passing Culloden, the site of the last pitched battle on British soil. It then enters the Cairngorms National Park, home to some of Europe’s most dramatic landscapes as well as glens steeped in Gaelic folklore. The park’s station at Aviemore is home to the Strathspey Railway, where Victorian steam locomotives come to life. There is then a climb to the highest point on Britain’s railway network before the train winds its way through Fife. Eventually the route crosses the Forth Bridge before arriving in Edinburgh, admired for its architecture and annual arts festival. Narrated by Bill Nighy.

Have I Got News for You (BBC1, 8.30pm)

When it was announced that the latest series of Have I Got News for You would be going ahead, many viewers had doubts about how it would work, and not just because they wondered how regulars Paul Merton and Ian Hislop would be able to find the funny side of the current crisis. Luckily they persevered, and while the results haven’t been exactly HIGNFY as we know it – some of us never realised just how important the studio audience was in setting the right atmosphere – we’re grateful to them for trying. This week comedian Romesh Ranganathan is on hosting duties, while the panelists are actor-comedian Maisie Adam and satirist Armando Iannucci.

The Graham Norton Show (BBC1, 9pm)

Despite the fact that so much of the joy of The Graham Norton Show usually comes from seeing the eclectic combination of celebrities interacting with each other on the sofa, this is one format that has handled the transition to online interviews surprisingly well. Perhaps it’s because Graham is such a natural interviewer – and perhaps it’s because he can still get the A-listers on to his show, even if they are only there remotely. The opening episode featured Michaels Sheen and Buble, and he’s since given a virtual welcome to Patrick Stewart and Ricky Gervais. Hopefully, this week will be equally star-studded, even if it is now trickier for the famous faces to chat amongst themselves.

The Shadows at 60 (BBC4, 9.30pm)

Some fans might argue that the title of this documentary is a little misleading. The Shadows actually formed in 1958, although they were originally known as The Drifters, and first found fame as Cliff Richard’s backing group. However, it is 60 years since they scored a number one with their atmospheric instrumental Apache. To celebrate, Cliff Richard and band members Hank Marvin, Bruce Welch and Brian Bennett look back at their remarkable career, and there are also contributions from some of the countless musicians they influenced.