The new series of Taskmaster opens with Richard Ayoade making his intention to do the bare minimum very clear. The brilliantly deadpan comic joins Nina Conti, Chloe Petts, Isy Suttie and Matt Lucas in the opener, at 9pm on Channel 4.
Taskmaster remains effortlessly enjoyable
A mere 22 seasons in, the show remains an effortlessly enjoyable way to spend an hour. The other comics making up the cohort are Chloe Petts, Isy Suttie, Nina Conti and Matt Lucas.
Other highlights this evening
Renovation Rescue continues at 8pm on Channel 4, with Vogue Williams and Luke Mabbott in Nottingham, where they learn from Sylvia and Dave that even minimalist designs can go wrong. Sylvia has been diagnosed with a serious health issue.
The Yorkshire Vet at 8pm on Channel 5 sees Shona Searson looking after a breeding animal who has forgotten to slap on the suncream, while Julian Norton is wary when a 12ft Burmese python arrives at the practice.
A House Through Time at 9pm on BBC Two sees David Olusoga wrap up the history of a Georgian home in Edinburgh from the 1930s through to the present day. Current residents Morag and Henrietta are delighted to hear it was once “a house of ill fame”, but there’s sadness as Olusoga traces the poverty and war, then the threat of demolition in the 1960s.
Fightland at 9pm on Sky Atlantic continues with Duke (Howard Charles) in a tighter spot than ever since his promoter and drug-dealer nemesis Kingsley (Nicholas Pinnock) has proved elusive. As he hurtles towards a disastrous meeting with some tough Russians, drastic action is required.
Hit Point at 9pm on U&Dave continues as the two fugitives do a runner with the missing millions, while their dangerous rivals (including Peter Serafinowicz in a cuddly hat) close in to claim their share. Elsewhere, framed, innocent Kieran threatens to spill the beans, putting Leo’s double life in jeopardy.
Film choice
Anora (Sean Baker, 2024) is available on Netflix from Thursday. The indie drama and surprise Oscar winner focuses on the titular Brooklyn stripper and sex worker, played by Mikey Madison. When a Russian oligarch’s son, Ivan (Mark Eydelshteyn), falls impetuously in love with her, Anora seizes the chance of a better life, but she is up against some formidable in-laws. Veering skilfully from slapstick comedy to gritty drama, it’s a superbly acted, manic treasure.
