The second episode of the anti-apartheid documentary series Free Nelson Mandela airs tonight at 9pm on Channel 4, tracking the turbulent 1980s. As Nelson Mandela's health deteriorates, the South African government begins to see that allowing him to die in custody could lead to civil war. The episode also features an epic outdoor concert in London showcasing Jerry Dammers's protest song for the ages, Free Nelson Mandela.
Cruising to the Ends of the Earth
At 8pm on Channel 4, the seventh instalment of this series looks at unforgettable voyages on four cruise ships, including the Diamond Princess, previously home to a mass Covid outbreak. This episode follows it docking in Kagoshima, home of Japan's most active volcano, as well as visiting sister ship the Discovery Princess in the breathtaking wilds of Alaska.
Inside Barlinnie
In the last episode of the second series of the docudrama set inside Glasgow's notorious prison, airing at 9pm on BBC Two, we meet offender Frankie who's found it a stabilising force. An addict since he was nine, it's the longest time he's been sober – but his habit of assaulting sex offenders has added time to his sentence.
Little Disasters
This thriller adaptation starring Diane Kruger continues at 9pm on Channel 5. Jess and Ed's behaviour is now having consequences for the whole friendship group as the social services get involved. A few quiet betrayals are in order.
Death Valley
At 9.15pm on BBC One, the series two finale of this cosy crime hit is funny and touching. Diffident detective Janie (Gwyneth Keyworth) is leaving for a year in Portugal, to the dismay of her police colleagues and actor sidekick John (Timothy Spall). But someone's been bludgeoned at a rugby club full of eccentrics.
Later … With Jools Holland
At 10pm on BBC Two, an impressive mix of old and new for the final episode of this series. Shania Twain will share a piano with Jools for a performance of her 1997 hit You're Still the One. Arlo Parks offers tunes from her new album. And there'll be spotty, theatrical, microtonal oddness from buzzy Canadians Angine de Poitrine.
Film choice: Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story
At 4.25pm on Channel 4, Charlie Hamilton-James's delightful documentary follows a young otter named Molly, found by middle-aged couple Billy and Susan outside their remote Shetland home, hungry and possibly orphaned. The film follows a year in their lives as Billy brings her back to health. It's proper comfort viewing, with lovely aerial shots of Molly out and about along the coast blended with footage of Billy caring for the playful creature. Billy and Susan's often wry narration highlights the mental health benefit close proximity to nature can have.
The Lost Boys
At 9.40pm on Sky Cinema Greats, Joel Schumacher's undead horror/biker flick blends a Goonies-like caper with barely suppressed adolescent lust. Jason Patric is all black leather and attitude as Michael, the new kid in town drawn to Jami Gertz's mystery girl, who in turn is in thrall to rebel/vampire Kiefer Sutherland. Corey Haim drives the plot forward as Michael's brother Sam who, with the grownups awol, leads the fight back by way of holy water pistols, chunks of garlic and tips from a comic book.
