SATURDAY
Doctor Who
BBC1, 6.30pm
‘That is textbook enigmatic,’ something David Tennant’s previous Doctor once said, way back when. And it’s a good description of tonight’s special, which comes shrouded in mystery. Preview copies verboten! All we know is, following Donna’s spillage last week, an out-of-control TARDIS takes the time travellers to the furthest edge of adventure. And to escape, they face a desperate fight in which the fate of the universe is at stake.
SUNDAY
My Life At Christmas With Adrian Chiles
BBC1, 10.30am
As the first Sunday of Advent arrives, Adrian Chiles gets into the spirit of the season by putting on the first of his festive jumpers. Over the next three weeks he’s enjoying the company of various guests, to talk in-depth about their relationship with Christmas, how their faith has shaped their lives, and the special memories that this time of year brings. First up is Oti Mabuse, who invites Adrian to join her in a few dance steps.
MONDAY
Boat Story
BBC1, 9pm
It’s the series finale of this black comedy thriller and the liberal bloody violence, silent film title cards and metadrama may not have been to everyone’s taste. But it certainly tried to do something different. Janet (Daisy Haggard) and Samuel (Paterson Joseph) have a stand-off with The Tailor (Tchéky Karyo) with surprising results. With Pat Tooh’s life on the line, Janet begins to unravel The Tailor’s past and realises she must act fast…
TUESDAY
The Doll Factory
Channel 5, 10pm
This dark new drama set in Victorian London stars Esmé Creed-Miles and Mirren Mack as twins Iris and Rose, who work at Mrs Salter’s (Pippa Haywood) Doll Emporium. And their world soon collides with mysterious taxidermist Silas (Éanna Hardwicke) and Pre-Raphaelite painter Louis (George Webster) as the men strive to create something special for the forthcoming Great Exhibition. Full series available on Paramount+
WEDNESDAY
Mayfair Witches
BBC2, 9pm
Young neurosurgeon Rowan (Alexandra Daddario) discovers she possesses supernatural abilities and that she is the unlikely heir to a family of witches, as you do. As she grapples with her newfound powers, she must contend with a sinister presence that’s haunted her family for generations. It’s all about female empowerment which, being based on Anne Rice’s iconic trilogy, Lives Of The Mayfair Witches, goes without saying.
THURSDAY
Fur Babies
Channel 4, 8pm
Dr James Greenwood and Dr Bolu Eso are our guides, offering a helping hand for families whose pets are going through pregnancy. The joy of finding out that your beloved animal is expecting can be tempered by pre-delivery nerves, so the docs offer plenty of handy hints about the best ways to prepare. Tonight, Labrador Bella is about to have her first litter, but the birth delivers more than anyone expected…
FRIDAY
MasterChef: The Professionals
BBC1, 8pm
Seven weeks ago, 32 ambitious chefs put their skills, flair and flavours on the line in the hope of reaching this moment – now just three remain. All that stands between them and the title are three outstanding plates of food – and the taste buds of judges Gregg Wallace, Monica Galetti and Marcus Wareing. So, after a quick prayer to the gods of seasoning, split sauces and soggy pastry, let the culinary battle commence!