PICKS OF THE WEEK: 16-22 DECEMBER 2024

What to watch this week.

Strike: The Ink Black Heart

Monday-Tuesday, BBC One

Tom Burke and Holiday Grainger return in the hit crime series based on J.K. Rowling’s best-selling novels written under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith.

When frantic, desperate Edie Ledwell appears in the office begging to speak to her, private detective Robin Ellacott doesn't know quite what to make of the situation.

Gino & Fred: Emission Impossible

Monday-Tuesday, ITV1

Gino D’Acampo and Fred Sirieix are off on an epic eco-friendly trip to explore the cuisine and culture of Austria and Croatia. Along the way, the firm friends find themselves rowing through spectacular glaciers, taking part in a traditional Austrian dance, trying their hand at water polo in Croatia and milking donkeys.

The Good Ship Murder Christmas Special

Wednesday, Channel 5

The holiday season is off to a rocky start when the ship's resident Santa falls ill, threatening to disappoint the passengers. Bev puts Jack in charge of finding a replacement Santa, and his search leads him to Buddy, a veteran comedian in Dubrovnik who seems like the perfect fit. However, unexpected events complicate Jack's plan, leaving everyone scrambling to save Christmas on board...

The Young Offenders Christmas Special

Friday, BBC One

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Mairéad (Hilary Rose), Sgt. Healy (Dominic MacHale) and Conor (Alex Murphy) are preparing for the imminent new arrival, with Conor wanting only the best for his mother. Conor is still a novice at domestic housework, including washing, so Mairéad decides to give him lessons, clearing out his wash basket thoroughly – only to discover a handgun in the basket.

Bullseye Christmas Special

Sunday, ITV1

 The game show is back on ITV with cricketing legend Freddie Flintoff at the presenting helm. Each playing team will be made up of an amateur dart player known as the ‘thrower’ and their team partner the ’knower’. They will combine their skills and throw darts at different game boards while answering questions correctly for ‘points and prizes’.

Death In Paradise Christmas Special

Sunday, ITV1

It’s the most wonderful time of the year as we return to sun-drenched Saint Marie, joining the police team and a new Detective Inspector for a festive feature-length Death in Paradise Christmas special. When holiday maker Stuart Fullwell (Marcus Brigstocke), fresh from performing karaoke dressed as Santa, is found shot dead on the beach by a young boy Ollie - son of Jamie (Jim Howick) - the Saint Marie police team kick into action.

Bad Tidings

Sunday, Sky Max

It’s the week before Christmas and Stockport home security expert, Neil (Lee Mack) has a problem with his neighbour. Scott (Chris McCausland) swaps their bins, complains about Neil’s ‘project’ car on his drive and has had his Christmas lights up all year, shining into Neil’s home office. Basically, he’s a git. He’s also blind, and the rest of the street think he’s great.