TV guide: 42 of the best shows to watch this new years week – Irish Times

Westlife: The Twenty Tour Live from Croke ParkSunday, RT One, 6.30pmFilmed at their homecoming gig in summer 2019, this spectacular show features Shane, Nicky, Mark and Kian performing their hits in a celebration of one of pops most sensational comebacks. Includes performances of all their hit singles, including Uptown Girl, You Raise Me Up, Flying Without Wings and World of Our Own, along with new tracks Hello My Love, Better Man and Dynamite to a sell-out crowd with spectacular staging, lights and effects.

The Trial of Christine KeelerSunday, BBC1, 9pm

A cabal of powerful men collude in the exploitation of young women: sounds like recent newspaper headlines in a nutshell. But the so-called Profumo affair happened nearly 60 years ago. Now one of the most notorious sex scandals of 1960s Britain gets another airing in this six-part drama, which promises to delve into the personal and political web of lies and deceit that destroyed lives and brought down a government. Sophie Cookson plays 19-year-old model Christine Keeler, whose dalliance with war minister John Profumo shook Westminster to its foundations. Can she top Joanne Whalley-Kilmers performance in the 1989 film Scandal? Well see.

Top Gear Nepal SpecialSunday, BBC2, 9pmThe team sets off on a high-altitude trek from Kathmandu, capital of Nepal, to the Forbidden City of Lo Manthang, a secretive kingdom perched high on the Tibetan plateau, on the far side of the Himalayas. On a five-day expedition through the highest mountains, deepest gorges and harshest terrain on the planet, Paddy McGuinness, Freddie Flintoff and Chris Harris battle huge river crossings, vast mudslides and dizzying mountain passes on a trip that would test even the hardiest new 4x4s to the limit. But they arent crossing the Himalayas in new 4x4s but a small old Peugeot, a compact old Renault, and Nepals first (and only) home-built car.

Niall Tibn EverymanSunday, RT One, 9.30pm

Niall Tibn passed away on November 13th, eight days shy of his 90th birthday. Everyman celebrates his long life and career, which spanned seven decades. In this intimate and often hilarious documentary, Nialls daughters begin the task of documenting and archiving the huge collection of movie and theatrical memorabilia which their father had collected over his long career. With contributions from fans and colleagues and a huge amount of archive footage, what emerges is a poignant and funny story of a man who has managed to excel in every field of Irish entertainment uniquely successful on radio, stage, TV, film and stand up comedy. Interviewees include Pierce Brosnan (who made his telly debut alongside Tibn in Murphys Stroke), Gabriel Byrne (who started off in Bracken with Niall), Stephen Rea, Holt McCallany, Jim Sheridan, Fionnula Flanagan, Mary McEvoy, Des Keogh, Eamon Morrissey, Victoria Smurfitt, Don Wycherley, Deirdre OKane and Jon Kenny.

Life and SoulSunday, RT One, 11am

Hotelier Francis Brennan, boxing icon Katie Taylor and Ireland hockey star Elena Tice are among ine O Neill and Colm Flynns guests for this seasonal episode that celebrates Christianity as a living and lived faith. Flynn also looks at the legacy of the late Jean Vanier of LArche Community in Cork. Brennan describes his belief in God and how his faith kept things in perspective when he once lost more than 10 million. From her gym in Bray, Taylor talks about her formative years, her highs and lows, and and the reasons why she holds on to her faith so firmly.

QuizmasterSunday, UTV, 6pmJeremy Vine pits 15 high-profile contestants on major TV quiz shows against each other to find out who is king or queen of TV game shows. The familiar faces competing include actor Shaun Williamson, who won Celebrity Mastermind; Isabelle Heward, who won Mastermind in 2017; Egghead Pat Gibson, who won 1 million on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?; his Eggheads team-mate Kevin Ashman, a former Mastermind champ who holds the record for the highest score ever; Ailsa Watson, a Fifteen-to-One grand final winner in 2015; and Eric Monkman and Bobby Seagull, who achieved fame on University Challenge.

The Repair Shop at ChristmasSunday, BBC1, 7pmIn an age of cynicism and backbiting, The Repair Shop is a genuinely heartwarming gift, in which experts in their field breathe new life into damaged or broken items that have sentimental value to their owners. In this festive edition, foreman Jay Blades organises renovations of a Chopper bicycle, a threadbare teddy bear who is much need of a few key stitches, a clockwork train set that hasnt moved in years, and a harmonium that requires help to get it tuneful again.

Snow Cats and MeSunday, BBC2, 8pm (repeated Fri, 7pm)

The first of two programmes in which wildlife cameraman Gordon Buchanan documents returning lynx liberated from the fur trade to the wilds of Russias Ural mountains. The documentary follows two lynx who have spent years living in steel cages and being bred for their kittens fur. They regain the strength to survive, and even have their first kittens born in the wild but may have lost the skills needed to raise them. They are joined by two more lynx kept as pets that have never been outside.

Great Irish InteriorsMonday, RT One, 8.30pm

New three-part series follows the fascinating work of historical interior experts on multimillion-euro restoration projects transforming Doneraile Court in Co Cork, Emo Court in Co Laois, and Kylemore Abbey in Co Galway. The show reveals fascinating and previously unseen work done by the experts as they source, beg, borrow and steal furniture, artwork and precious artefacts for their sites, often just working from archives and little photographic evidence, they have to be creative, but accurate.

Shane Lowry OpenMonday, RT One, 9.30pm

The remarkable tale behind the Offaly mans British Open win this summer is framed by the two Open championships in 2018 and 2019, one a disaster and the other a triumph. The documentary dips into the key moments of Shane Lowrys life to create a portrait that captures his warmth and humour and delves deeply into his family history. Interviews include Lowry, his family, friends, fellow golfers (Harrington, McGinley, McDowell, Clarke, McIlroy and Open rival Fleetwood), and his close-knit team. It will take us to Offaly and his family life, portraying the relationships he has with his parents, his wife and the very special bond he has with his granny, who herself has become a bit of a celebrity since Lowrys Open win. She looked after Shane as a boy, and he was sure to give her a cut of his first earnings on tour. Lowry even missed Rory McIlroys wedding to attend his grannys 80th birthday party.

Back from the BrinkMonday, RT One, 6.30pmThe hard work and dedication of conservationists striving to save endangered European species from extinction is celebrated in this documentary presented by Derek Mooney. Produced in collaboration with the European Broadcasting Union and building on the success of last years Nature Live broadcast, Back from the Brink features uplifting and inspirational conservation stories spanning the breadth of the continent. It will be broadcast in six countries and translated into local languages. Given the dramatic changes that are happening in our natural world due to climate change and the impact of humans, Back from the Brink demonstrates that with determination and passion we can start to turn things around and rebuild our fragile environment.

Snow AnimalsMonday, BBC1, 7pmIn this spectacular season, much of the world is transformed into a wonderland of sparkling frost, snow and ice. But for animals, this is the toughest time of year, and as Liz Bonnin shows, preparations start early. In autumn, Siberian chipmunks collect food in their cheek pouches to stockpile in their burrows, while caribou make an epic journey to new feeding areas. With the arrival of winter, the American bobcat must find its prey beneath deep snow, while an Arctic fox relies on its wits to find a meal in human settlements. A sea otter keeps her cub warm by blowing air into its coat, while some animals turn white to blend in with the snow around them. As winter begins to loosen its grip, an Arctic ground squirrel stirs from an eight-month hibernation and has just 12 hours to find and woo a mate.

Only Connect Travel SpecialMonday, BBC2, 8pmVictoria Coren Mitchell presents the latest special edition of the fiendishly difficult quiz show, in which contestants are challenged to make connections between things, which, at first glance, seem totally random. In a travel-themed edition, seasoned travellers Michael Reeve, Suda Perera and their captain Chris Clough, aka the Globetrotters, take on the Eurovisionaries, a trio of Eurovision Song Contest aficionados. As usual, patience and lateral thinking could be just as important as knowledge.

Christmas Sales: Supershoppers SpecialMonday, Channel 4, 8pmFor many shoppers, festive sales are the most wonderful time of the year. However, with retailers desperate to get us splashing the cash, how can we tell if we are getting a bargain or being sold a turkey? In this edition, Sabrina Grant and Helen Skelton investigate the tricks that retailers use to get us to spend, and reveal the best sales tips, including how to read secret codes on price tags and how to tell when a sale is about to happen. They also reveal the alarming and unfair tactics used by some well-known retailers.

Alan Carrs Celebrity Re-Play 2019Monday, UTV, 9pmThe comedian and chat show host is joined by six celebrity guests for a special games night as they look back at some of the most memorable moments of the past 12 months, from Stormzys spectacular Glastonbury set to England almost winning the Rugby World Cup and Boris Johnsons failed attempt to shut down parliament. Angellica Bell joins Carr to oversee proceedings, which features a mixture of comedy moments, surprise guests, and one famous couple having the chance to win 25,000 for charity.

Frankie Boyles 2019 New World OrderMonday, BBC2, 11pmThe acerbic comedian presents his end-of-year special, with guests Sara Pascoe and Miles Jupp helping him dissect the bewildering year that was 2019. The show features a mix of Boyles stand-up, reviews and discussion all in an attempt to make sense of the last 12 months, which saw Boris Johnson succeed Theresa May as prime minister, the further delay of the UKs exit from the EU, the announcement of a general election, and a vote for the impeachment of President Donald Trump.

The Best of 2010-2015 Wipe with Charlie BrookerMonday, BBC2, 11.45pmCharlie Brookers last annual round-ups was a few years ago, since hes been busy with his acclaimed sci-fi anthology series Black Mirror. Hes also the brains behind Philomena Cunk, Diane Morgans delightfully deadpan, clueless presenter who first appeared on his shows and went on to land her own spin-offs. But the good news for anyone who has missed Brooker is that BBC2 is now treating us to some of the best bits from previous years. Its also a chance for us to reflect on just how much has changed since 2015.

Mrs Browns Boys Orange Is the New MammyNew Years Eve, RT One, 9.40pm; New Years Day, BBC One, 10.30pm

The second festive special from Brendan OCarroll is called Orange Is the New Mammy, so we can see a jail theme emerging here. Peggy Piper the Pernod Poisoner has been let out of prison and is on her way back to Finglas, which has Winnie quaking in her slippers, as she was the one who witnessed Peggy poisoning her husband. But could Peggy actually be innocent? Agnes will have to get to the bottom of this mystery One thing is for sure: everyone will be passing on the Pernod.

The Graham Norton Show: New Years Eve ShowNew Years Eve, BBC1, 10.20pm (repeated Wed, Virgin Two, 10pm)Norton is joined by Tom Hanks, who discusses playing beloved American childrens TV presenter Fred Rogers in A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. Other guests dropping by to help Graham ring in the new year include Strictly Come Dancing judge Motsi Mabuse and Line of Duty star Stephen Graham, while music is provided by Melanie C featuring Sink the Pink, performing new single High Heels.

Una Healys New Years Eve PartyNew Years Eve, RT One, 10.25pm

Party into the new year with Tipperary singer, songwriter, broadcaster and Saturdays star Una Healy and the RT Concert Orchestra together with a star-studded cast, including The Waterboys, David Gray, Wallis Bird, Brian Kennedy and many more for what promises to be a truly magical night.

Jools Annual HootenannyNew Years Eve, BBC2, 11.15pmThe piano-playing maestro presents his annual musical extravaganza, with an assortment of guests performing alongside his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra. This years acts include Alabama Shakes Brittany Howard, who provides a taste of her first solo album, and Stormzy, fresh from his triumphant performance at this years Glastonbury Festival. Other acts on the bill include Stereophonics, Rick Astley, Tom Walker, YolanDa Brown, Melanie, La Roux, Eddi Reader, Pauline Black and Arthur Gaps Hendrickson from ska band The Selecter, and, of course, Hootenanny mainstay Ruby Turner, as well as the customary midnight appearance by the Pipes and Drums of the 1st Battalion Scots Guards to ring in 2020.

Filte 2020New Years Eve, TG4, 11.20pmRing in the new year live from the biggest party in the west, hosted by Hector hEochagin and Eibhln N Chonghaile from T Pheacocke in Conamara. Tunes, songs and madness are provided by Sharon Shannon and her band, Frankie Gavin, Steve Cooney, MCMuipid, Johnny g Connolly, Nan Tom Teaimn and the best of sean-ns song and dance. Sure where else would you want to be?

Mary Kennedy: As Seen on TVNew Years Eve, RT One, 8.40pm

From continuity announcer to newsreader, Eurovision host and beloved presenter of Nationwide, Mary Kennedy is regarded as one of the countrys most accomplished TV presenters. Spooling back through the archives, she selects some memorable moments from her 40-year television career.

Celebrity MastermindNew Years Eve, BBC One, 7pmHost John Humphrys welcomes Derry Girls actor Dylan Llewellyn, Northern Irish broadcaster and journalist Claire McCollum, British-South African vlogger, actor and entrepreneur Caspar Lee, and Radio 1 DJ Rickie Haywood-Williams to take their place in the infamous black chair. Tonights specialist subjects are films directed by Quentin Tarantino, 1980s television shows, video-sharing platform YouTube, and fantasy literary and TV series Game of Thrones.

The Last Leg of the YearNew Years Eve, Channel 4, 9pmAdam Hills, Josh Widdicombe and Alex Brooker present a two-hour new years special that looks back at the highs and lows of 2019 in the company of a selection of celebrity guests, including Sue Perkins, Sara Pascoe, Tom Davis and Rosie Jones. Johnny Vegas is on hand to man the studios bar and keep the drinks flowing, while house band The Horne Section provide the music. Brooker takes on his most daring challenge to date when he trains to become a racing driver, aiming to become the first disabled person in history to complete a high-speed lap in a racing car at Donington Park.

Dame Edna Rules the WavesNew Years Eve, BBC1, 9.05pm

Following her emotional (supposed) farewell tour six years ago, showbiz legend Dame Edna (aka Barry Humphries) has been enjoying some luxury downtime on board her enormous yacht, sailing the seas without a care in the world. But shes back on the BBC for one night only. Filmed in front of a audience, Dame Edna hosts a very exclusive evening with celebrity chat, music and of course a few surprises direct from her luxury yacht which is staffed by some familiar faces. Guests on board include Sharon Osbourne, Robert Rinder, Emily Atack, Anita Rani, Joe Sugg and Rick Stein, while Niles Rodgers and Chic provide the Good Times in the form of some live music.

Doctor WhoNew Years Day, BBC1, 6.55pm

Its the 12th season of the Timelords adventures (not counting the 20th-century incarnations of the good Doctor), and the second season with Jodie Whittaker as the time-traveller from the planet Gallifrey. By all accounts, Whittaker has taken up the Sonic Screwdriver and really run with it and her return is highly anticipated by fans. Theres a nod to Bond in the title of the opening episode - Spyfall. Aliens are targeting intelligence agents, and MI6 cant call 007, so they get in touch with the Doctor instead to uncover whats going on. Stephen Fry and Lenny Henry make special appearances, and apparently the fearsome Judoon are set to make a return.

DraculaNew Years Day/Thursday/Friday, BBC1, 9pm

The story of Dracula has been retold many times and in many forms, but it might just be worth letting in this new three-part adaptation of the Bram Stoker novel: its written by Mark Gatiss and Stephen Moffatt, the dynamic duo behind Sherlock, Jekyll and numerous Doctor Who episodes, and stars Danish actor Claes Bang as the seductive count, bringing a well-rounded air of charm, refinement and cold menace to the role. Its 1897, and English lawyer Jonathan Harker (John Heffernan) is summoned to darkest Transylvania to meet a new client. But little does he know that hes about to encounter the most iconic horror villain of all time.

Leaving LimboNew Years Day, RT One, 6.30pm

This beautifully shot observational documentary tells the inspiring story of teenage best friends and former asylum seekers. Natasha Maimba and Minahil Sarfraz met while growing up in direct provision, their childhoods spent in cramped caravans on the outskirts of Athlone. Both spent years in limbo, not knowing if they would be able to stay in the country they were making home. Their mothers were not allowed to work and were denied basic citizenship rights. Finally granted leave to remain, Leaving Limbo follows the journey of these articulate, intelligent and funny young women as they prepare to sit their Leaving Cert exams.

The Great Festive Bake OffNew Years Day, Channel 4, 7.40pmTheres something slightly odd about seeing Noel Fielding, Sandi Toksvig, Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood in the famous tent at this time of year. After all, Bake Off is recorded in the summer, when the sun is shining and chocolate melts quicker than you can say soggy bottom. But here they are, and showing off their talents (or otherwise) are Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Nicola Coughlan, Jamie-Lee ODonnell, Dylan Llewellyn and Siobhan McSweeney, aka Derry Girls Erin, Clare, Michelle, James and Sister Michael.

BancroftNew Years Day/Thursday/Friday, Virgin One/UTV, 9pm

Sarah Parish is back as crime buster Elizabeth Bancroft in the first of a three-part thriller. Promoted to detective chief superintendent, Bancroft returns on a professional high. Alas, shes now estranged from her son (Adam Long) and under pressure thanks to her lethal pact with crime boss Daanish Kamara (Ryan McKen). As a double murder brings a personal reunion, Bancrofts loyalties are questioned.

Fear darb ainm HarrisNew Years Day, TG4, 9.30pm

Limerick-born movie star Richard Harris (1930-2002) was celebrated as much for his colourful life off screen as for his many roles on screen. He was the last of the great hell-raisers; a dinosaur from an era when movie stars misbehaved and the public loved him for it. He wore his Irish heritage as a badge of pride and talked of Ireland and Limerick at every opportunity. Featuring exclusive interviews with Harris costars and directors, including Clint Eastwood (Unforgiven), Daniel Radcliffe (the first two Harry Potter films), Ridley Scott (Gladiator) and Stephen Rea (Trojan Eddie), this documentary explores Harriss fascinating life and career.

Joe inni: Song of GraniteThursday, TG4, 9.30pm

This is a lyrical and unconventional account of the life of the complex and enigmatic Joe Heaney (1919-1984), one of the greats of traditional sean-ns singing. Irish Times film critic Donald Clarke called it a superb study . . . Weaving archival footage in with Richard Kendricks bewitching, clean monochrome photography, director Pat Collins blurs the lines between documentary, expressionist flourish and biographical drama. Some viewers may yearn for a touch more narrative drive. But nobody will emerge unmoved.

Best Home CookThursday, BBC1, 8pm

Glam Claudia Winkleman gets her hands dirty again, helping the amateur chefs as a new search begins for Britains best home cook. Mary Berry is also back as a judge, alongside Eat Well for Less? presenter Chris Bavin and Michelin-starred chef Angela Hartnett. The second series kicks-off tonight with more cooks showcasing recipes passed down through generations. Berry challenges the contestants to produce their ultimate Italian pasta dinner (including making the pasta from scratch), before Bavin tasks them with doing something special with a humble piece of fruit. After the budding chefs compete to create the best version of one of Hartnetts recipes, the judges who will get the chop.

Imagine Lenny Henry: Young, Gifted and BlackThursday, BBC1, 11pm

Alan Yentob follows the comedian and actor as he publishes his autobiography. Henry meets up with his closest friends, family and colleagues to remember his sudden rise to fame at the age of 16 on TV talent show New Faces, which catapulted him from working-class West Midlands kid to one of Britains most celebrated black performers. Yentob explores his other TV roles on Tiswas and Three of a Kind, as well as his controversial time as the only black performer on The Black and White Minstrel Show. Henry also discusses his recent career reinvention as a serious actor and his work as a political activist campaigning for greater diversity in entertainment and broadcasting.

Big Fat Quiz of the DecadeThursday, Channel 4, 9pmThe second Big Fat Quiz in the space of a week as Jimmy Carr finds out how much Britains celebrities can remember about the past 10 years. Claudia Winkleman, Nish Kumar, Joe Lycett, Alan Carr, Stacey Solomon and Jonathan Ross try to recall why lasagne hit the headlines in 2013 and who squeezed through a hole in the wall back in 2015. Their knowledge of pop culture will also be put to the test as they try to name Pickachu friends and demonstrate whether or not they can Nae Nae. Meanwhile, Big Fat regulars Jon Snow and Charles Dance are also on hand to give Carr a break and deliver some of the posers.

Earths Tropical IslandsThurday, BBC2, 9pmBorneo in southeast Asia is the third largest island on Earth and home to possibly the greatest diversity of life of any island. Its huge variety of habitats, from bustling coral reefs and ancient jungles to towering mountains, have given rise to more than 60,000 species of plants and animals many of which cant be found anywhere else on the planet. The second part of this fascinating nature series covers Borneos rich abundance of wildlife, from frogs to orangutans.

More Big Fat Lies About Diet and ExerciseThursday, Channel 5, 9pmUpdated version of the January 2019 documentary exploring the potential pitfalls of trying to lead a more healthy lifestyle, from the dangers of crash dieting to the unexpected side effects of doing too much exercise. The programme features contributions from nutritionists, dieticians, GPs, cardiologists, fitness trainers and psychologists, who explain the health benefits of fat and carbohydrates, the addictive quality of sugar, the hazards of diet pills, and what can happen to someone who eats too many bananas.

Jamie and Jimmys Friday Night FeastFriday, Channel 4, 8pmMary Berry joins Jamie Oliver and Jimmy Doherty in their cafe on Southend Pier, where she enjoys a nostalgic seafood feast inspired by her happy family holidays in the West Country. The wander down memory lane features a stuffed whole trout, potted shrimp and a retro crab cocktail, plus bread from Berrys favourite bakery. Doherty also rustles up a gorgeously gooey mozzarella and pesto bread. Out and about, the hosts find themselves on the front line of cooking, taking part in a training exercise with the No 3 Mobile Catering Squadron at RAF Wittering.

The Goes Wrong ShowFriday, BBC1, 8.30pmAmateur dramatics group The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society stage a second World War drama, rarely performed because of its historical inaccuracy and poor research. Director Chris plays Rufus Heal, a dashing pilot reduced to a desk job cracking German codes in a top secret Allied facility after losing his leg. He is assisted by Sandra as uptight Englishwoman Valerie Sky and Vanessa as French codebreaker Camille, under the watchful eye of Annie as Wing Commander Wickham.

TOTP: Big Hits 1989Friday, BBC4, 8.30pmMargaret Thatchers last full year as British PM contrasted with global political change. In the music world, the end of Pete Watermans chart domination heralded the dawn of Madchester. Some female artists brought attitude to the year, while an unlikely duet between a 60s legend and an 80s icon was a charttopper. As far as Top of the Pops was concerned, Radio 1s old guard was stood down as a team of fresh-faced recruits helmed the show. Jason Donovan, Lisa Stansfield, Shaun Ryder, Chris Rea, Marc Almond, Sharleen Spiteri, Jazzie B and Jenny Powell are among those reminiscing.

In Search of Dracula with Mark GatissFriday, BBC2, 10.35pm

Mark Gatiss is crazy about horror movies. He grew up watching them and theyve gone on to play a big part in his life, inspiring his work from The League of Gentlemen onwards. During the past decade hes presented the three-part documentary A History of Horror and its follow-up, Horror Europa. This festive season, hes behind Martins Close, a BBC4 MR James adaptation and has co-created a new take on Dracula. Now hes fronting this programme in which he explores the characters creation via author Bram Stokers original notes and research material.

Contributing: PA

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TV guide: 42 of the best shows to watch this new years week - Irish Times

Reviewed and Recommended by Erik Baquero