Television viewers are in for a richly varied evening of entertainment, from heart-warming festive classics and crafty inspiration to gripping true crime and groundbreaking medical science. The schedule offers something for every taste, ensuring a night of compelling viewing.
Celebrating Cinematic Christmas Magic
The seasonal festivities begin on Sky Arts at 8pm with Classic Christmas Movies. This new series, presented by author Ian Nathan, kicks off by exploring the creation of two beloved holiday films. First, it delves into The Muppet Christmas Carol, the 1992 film where Sir Michael Caine delivered a remarkably straight-faced performance alongside Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the Muppet troupe.
The episode also examines the story behind It's a Wonderful Life, the Frank Capra masterpiece starring James Stewart. Interestingly, the film was a box office failure upon its initial release in 1946, only achieving its iconic status through repeated television broadcasts decades later. The show promises to reveal the fascinating histories behind these perennial favourites.
From Craft to Crime: A Night of Contrasts
For those seeking hands-on holiday inspiration, Channel 4 at 8pm hosts Kirstie's Handmade Christmas. Presenter Kirstie Allsopp returns with a bounty of creative ideas for home decor and keeping children occupied during the holidays. This episode sees her focusing on table decorations and seeking inspiration at a favourite antiques shop.
The tone shifts dramatically at 9pm on BBC Two with The Man in the Mask: An Orkney Murder. This documentary investigates the first murder on Orkney in 25 years: the killing of restaurant waiter Shamsuddin Mahmood. Reporter Hazel Martin re-examines the case, scrutinising whether police were mistaken about the character of the prime suspect, 15-year-old Michael Ross. The programme uncovers two alternative suspects linked to the victim, raising new questions about the tragic event.
Meanwhile, on Sky Atlantic at 9pm, the adaptation of Nick Cave's novel The Death of Bunny Munro continues. The road trip for salesman Bunny (Matt Smith) and his son Junior hits trouble. As Bunny Jr begins to emulate his father's dubious habits, their journey faces a potential crisis after an encounter with social services.
Finales and Frontiers in Medical Research
The evening's drama concludes with the finale of The Ridge on BBC Two at 9.45pm. The series follows Mia (Lauren Lyle), a Scottish woman battling opioid withdrawal, who is determined to uncover the truth about her sister's fatal fall in New Zealand. In this climactic episode, she returns to the vertiginous location of the original accident.
Finally, at 10pm on Channel 4, the important series Cancer Detectives: Finding the Cures draws to a close. Narrated by Sir Lenny Henry, this episode, backed by Cancer Research UK, highlights remarkable advances in early detection. Professor Caroline Dive shares progress on using blood tests to identify cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage. The programme underscores the vital role of clinical trials and participants, featuring the story of Lee, a patient whose condition has puzzled doctors for four years.
For sports fans, live coverage of the second Ashes Test between Australia and England from Brisbane continues on TNT Sports 1, starting at 3.30am.
