Television viewers are in for a treat this evening with a delightful mix of travel, dance, and quiz shows lighting up screens across the UK. From the sun-drenched French coast to the high-pressure dance floor, here is your essential guide to what's on.
Sandi's Riviera Rail Adventure
Sandi Toksvig embarks on a charming journey in Sandi’s Great Riviera Rail Trip, airing at 8.05pm on Channel 4. The beloved presenter travels along the stunning French Riviera, retracing the steps of the artists, writers, and freethinkers who established the region as an intellectual hub during the 20th century.
Her adventure begins with a pleasantly surprising on-time arrival in Marseille. From there, Toksvig heads to the picturesque Sanary-sur-Mer. This coastal town was once a haven for literary giants, including Aldous Huxley, author of Brave New World, and renowned German writers Thomas Mann and Bertolt Brecht. The episode promises a blend of scenic beauty and rich cultural history.
Prime Time Entertainment and Drama
Over on BBC One at 6.35pm, Strictly Come Dancing attempts to overcome a difficult period. Following a series of controversies, injuries, and presenter departures, the show introduces a new Instant Dance challenge to reinvigorate the competition. Couples will face immense time pressure, having just ten seconds to devise a brand new routine.
Quiz show enthusiasts can tune into ITV1 at 8pm for Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, still hosted by Jeremy Clarkson. The programme continues in its original format, though it was revealed that a faster-paced version, Millionaire Hot Seat, will launch in the UK next year.
Meanwhile, BBC One offers Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel at 8.05pm. Contestants, including the humorous Fatiha El-Ghorri, spin for their chance to answer tricky general knowledge questions in this high-stakes game of chance.
Culture, Music, and Soapy Intrigue
For music lovers, Sky Arts at 9pm presents the second part of its series Greatest Basslines. This episode features Melissa Auf der Maur, the acclaimed bassist from bands like Hole and Smashing Pumpkins, who discusses the iconic basslines that influenced her own distinctive playing style.
Drama continues on BBC One at 9.05pm with the fourth episode of Nicôle Lecky's series, Wild Cherry. The plot thickens as the scandal involving a nude photo intensifies, pulling more parents into the fray. In a significant development, Lorna, played by Carmen Ejogo, confronts the school administration, questioning whether race and class have played a role in how her daughter has been treated.
Today's Live Sports Line-Up
Sports fans have a packed schedule to enjoy today:
- Snooker: UK Championship from York Barbican begins at 1pm on BBC One, with further coverage on BBC Four at 7pm.
- Women’s Football: England v China kicks off at 5pm on ITV1, a friendly match at Wembley where Leah Williamson will lead the Lionesses.
- Premier League Football: A double-header on Sky Sports Main Event features Everton v Newcastle United at 5pm, followed by Tottenham Hotspur v Fulham at 7.45pm.
