PICK OF THE WEEK

city for a night out, which is good news for local revellers, but something of a mixed blessing for the cops in charge of keeping order after dark. This eye-opening documentary following the work of the police on the night shift returns for a second series, following some familiar faces as well as a few new recruits. In the opening episode, Dakota and Dan are called to an over-zealous Brighton football fan who’s been knocked out in the street, while Annie and Jack get some unexpected exercise when a man accused of assault makes a run for it. Plus, solo officer Emily is on the trail of some youths who have been in a fight.

The Dropout (BBC1, 10.40pm)

The drama based on the stranger-than-fiction story of Theranos, the healthcare company that made some very bold claims it was ultimately unable to fulfil, continues with a double bill. Founder Elizabeth (Amanda Seyfried) is under increasing pressure as an old family friend starts suing her, and there’s a move for a no-confidence vote in her as CEO. However, it seems she has a plan. Then in the second edition, Gibbon (Stephen Fry) is alarmed to hear about the business’s latest pitch, while Elizabeth sets her sights on winning over some influential supporters.

WEDNESDAY

Andi Oliver’s Fabulous Feasts (BBC2, 8pm)

Last week, the Great British Menu came to a conclusion, which must have left judge Andi Oliver at a loose end – but not for long. She’s back on the box with a new programme in which she helps chef Ben Quinn thank NHS staff at the Royal Cornwall Hospital for all their hard work and dedication by preparing a slap-up meal for them. It’s set to take place on one long table on a local beach, which should look spectacular, although it’s a logistical nightmare. Hopefully the incredible menu will make up for any problems with the weather too…

Cadbury at Easter: Secrets of the Chocolate Factory (C5, 8pm)

The legendary confectioner that has been crafting Easter eggs since 1875, and now produces 500 million eggs each year. This programme explores how Cadbury continues to enchant the world with its creations, including the much-anticipated White Chocolate Creme Egg. We also investigate Cadbury’s bold attempt to revive the beloved Caramac, and there is a savourysweet twist that’s stirred up the chocolate and pizza world. Finally, we travel back in time to uncover the fascinating Victorian origins of the Easter egg.

Surgeons: At the Edge of Life (BBC2, 9pm)

The latest run of the series that offers insights into the incredible work carried out by surgeons across the country begins in dramatic fashion with what sounds like a gruelling two-day operation. Spinal expert Michael Quaye and urologist James Douglas are taking charge of the procedure; neither of them have attempted it before, but know that collaboration could be the key to its success. Going under their knives is 27-year-old George, whose cancer has spread to his spine and become attached to the body’s biggest blood vessel.

Mandy (BBC2, 10pm)

Diane Morgan never fails to deliver brilliant performances in other people’s work. However, it’s her own characters that really shine. While we await her reappearance as Philomena Cunk in Cunk’s Quest for Meaning, Morgan returns as Mandy Clark in another six episodes of misadventures, with Paul Ready, Beverley Mallard, Robbie Gee and Nathan Foad joining the cast. In the first double-bill, she finds that daydreaming is a positive thing, before Graham Norton guest stars in a tale that sees our heroine make new friends – and enemies too.

crowned winner of what may have been the least competitive series in Taskmaster history – the contestants often seemed more interested in helping each other than getting points for themselves. But will the first class of 2024 have more of a killer instinct? We’re about to find out as Joanne McNally, John Robins, Nick Mohammed, Sophie Willan and Steve Pemberton take part in a variety of weird and wonderful tasks, all hoping to impress the Taskmaster himself, Greg Davies. In the opening episode, the challenges involve involving roller blinds, a floating primate and eggs, and Alex Horne will be on hand to remind them that all the information is on the task.

The Twelve (STV, 9pm)

After previously being available to stream on ITVX, the Australian legal drama now comes to terrestrial TV. Sam Neill heads the cast as the maverick defence lawyer in the complex case of Kate Lawson, who has been charged with murdering her 14-year-old niece Claire. The teenager disappeared while in her aunt’s care, but with no body or obvious motive there is plenty of room for doubt. In the opening episode, we meet the 12 jurors who will ultimately decide Kate’s fate – and it’s clear they will all be bringing their own baggage to the courtroom.

Bruce Lee: A Life in Ten Pictures (BBC2, 9pm)

The latest edition of the documentary series tells the story of how Hong Kong-American cinematic icon Bruce Lee introduced martial arts to the western world and in doing so, became a globally recognised name. As usual, there are stills from some of Lee’s iconic films, including The Big Boss, Fist of Fury, The Way of the Dragon and Enter the Dragon, as well as some private snaps from the life of the star who died in 1973, aged just 32. In between, the images’ secrets are revealed by those who were there and who knew the action hero.

The Apprentice (BBC1, 9pm)

It’s good news for long-time Apprentice viewer, as this week sees the return of one of the most iconic tasks – that’s right, the candidates are going to be broadcasting to the nation on a shopping channel. It’s probably bad news for the hopefuls themselves, as previous years have shown that selling live on air is much, much harder that it looks. With some presenters getting a little over enthusiastic and a few dramatic price drops, it could make for uncomfortable viewing back in the boardroom, as Lord Sugar decides who is for the chop.

The Hotel Inspector (C5, 9pm)

It’s now nearly 16 years since Alex Polizzi took on the mantle of Hotel Inspector, but with many sections of the hospitality industry still feeling the after-effects of the pandemic as well as the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, her expertise is arguably needed more than ever. She begins by meeting Mimmo and Michelle, who left their food-truck business in Italy to take over the Riders Rest tea rooms in Somerset. However, they now find themselves with no pension and no savings, and they can’t even afford to close the café for a holiday. Can Alex turn the business around and the help them enjoy la dolce vita?

Big Mood (C4, 10pm)

Former Derry Girl Nicola Coughlan and It’s a Sin’s Lydia West star in this comedy drama from writer Camilla Whitehill. They play Maggie and Eddie, best friends who have lived in each other’s pockets for 10 years. However, as they say goodbye to their twenties, and Maggie’s bipolar disorder rears its head, their relationship is about to be tested like never before. In the first episode, Maggie goes back to her old school to deliver a talk to the kids, but she’s less interested in inspiring a new generation than she is in finding out if the history teacher is still hot. Eddie comes along for the ride, but is left concerned by her friend’s behaviour. In the second instalment, Eddie is determined to celebrate Maggie’s 30th birthday, but there’s also a rodent infestation to deal with.

GOOD FRIDAY

Travel Man: 48 Hours in Rovaniemi (C4, 8.30pm)

Joe Lycett’s latest travelling companion is his fellow comedian Desiree Burch, who joins him for an unseasonal visit to the city of Rovaniemi – the official home of Santa Claus – in Finnish Lapland on the edge of the Arctic Circle. After a flight to Helsinki and an overnight sleeper train, they arrive at their destination, where they immerse themselves in the landscape by slipping into rubber suits and climbing into a freezing lake for a spot of ice floating. They also tuck into some local delicacies.

Pilgrimage: The Road Through North Wales (BBC2, 9pm)

Easter is often a time for reflection – and it’s also become the time of year when BBC2 brings us a documentary series following celebrities as they embark on a pilgrimage to learn more about their own beliefs. This year, the famous faces are Michaela Strachan, Spencer Matthews, Sonali Shah, Eshaan Akbar, Amanda Lovett, Tom Rosenthal and

Christine McGuinness. Together, they’ll be tackling the Pilgrim’s Way in North Wales, which is linked by ancient churches dedicated to sixth and seventh century saints, but also takes in areas of outstanding natural beauty. The pilgrims begin their journey at St Winefride’s Well, where Amanda makes a personal connection to a relic, and most of the celebs take a dip in an icy healing pool.

The Life and Death of Lily Savage (STV, 9pm)

On March 28, 2023, people across the UK were shocked by the news that the much-loved comedian and presenter Paul O’Grady had died at the age of 67. To mark the first anniversary of his passing, this documentary explores his life, concentrating on the years before he became a primetime favourite and all-round national treasure and was instead an underground cabaret star who was most famous for his alter ego, Lily Savage. Featuring contributions from friends, including Sir Ian McKellen, Julian Clary and Graham Norton, and Paul’s daughter Sharyn, the tribute looks at how Lily took shape against the backdrop of Thatcher’s Britain, Clause 28 and the AIDS crisis before crossing over into the mainstream, but also asks why Paul ultimately ‘killed off’ his much-loved creation.

Beyond Paradise (BBC1, 9pm)

The cops are faced with another baffling case when a clairvoyant makes some unusual predictions about a recently bereaved woman – and when they all start coming true, it leaves her in a dangerous situation. Can the psychic actually see the future, or do the answers lie in the past? Meanwhile, Humphrey and Martha probably wish they could predict what’s going to happen as they prepare for their fostering interviews. Social worker Hannah is the person they need to impress, but their nerves threaten to get the better of them.

Susan Calman’s Great British Cities (C5, 9pm)

Which city is the birthplace of modern cinema? Well, believe it or not, some people think that Leeds could have a claim to the title. So, as part of her latest adventure, Susan travels to the city’s Hyde Park Picture House, a surviving First World War cinema, to view what could be the first example of moving pictures. She also pays a visit to the iconic Armley Mill to learn more about Leeds’s industrial history, checks out the Thackray Museum of Medicine and meets the man behind the Leeds West Indian Carnival.

RuPaul’s Drag Race: UK Versus the World (BBC3, 9pm)

Eleven legendary queens from around the world entered the workroom for this second season, and tonight the finalists stand before Mama Ru – with one about to be elevated to legendary status. Michelle Visage, Graham Norton and Alan Carr join RuPaul on the judging panel, but before the finalists begin their final challenge, there’s one more surprise. Michelle hosts a reunion, and as the eliminated queens reflect on the highs and lows of a very eventful competition, expect squabbles, spilt tea and some awkward questions about lipsticks.