Strictly Come Dancing: The Christmas Countdown (BBC1, 4.45pm)
THE much-loved show’s festive special, which usually features either contestants from previous series or celebs who can’t commit to the regular show’s long run, has become a staple part of the BBC’s Christmas schedule.
Sadly there isn’t one this year due to coronavirus, but we’re getting the next best thing – a look back at the 25 best routines ever to feature on the programme, as voted for by the public.
Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman speak to the judges, professionals and celebrity guests about these iconic moments, which include perfect 10s and trophy-winning performances.
Blankety Blank Christmas Special (BBC1, 7pm)
IT’S the gameshow that was famously hosted by Terry Wogan, Les Dawson and Lily Savage. Those are some big shoes to fill, but if anyone can manage it, it’s Bradley Walsh, who has proved time and time again that he’s one of Britain’s best presenters.
For anyone who’s unfamiliar with the format, Walsh invites the contestants to fill in the missing blanks in a question.
Comedian Jimmy Carr, pop star Danny Jones, actress Emilia Fox, boxer Amir Khan, comedian Sue Perkins and presenter Anita Rani make up the celebrity panel who will be trying to help them win some brilliant prizes.
Call the Midwife (BBC1, 7.40pm)
IT’S now Christmas 1965 and everyone at Nonnatus House is preparing for a day full of traditional fun, food and festivities. But of course, this being Call the Midwife, things are not going to work out quite as they’d hoped.
After Sister Monica Joan is rushed to hospital, Trixie is angry to find a subscription for a marriage bureau in her stocking and a surprise reunion for Shelagh comes ahead of a deeply moving birth.
Matters start looking up when the circus arrives in Poplar, during which new friendships are forged and experiences enjoyed – but for Nurse Crane, it brings with it a potentially life-changing event.
Royal Opera All Star Gala (BBC4, 7.40pm)
KATIE Derham presents this special concert recorded in September. Scattered throughout the stalls of the fabulous auditorium at Covent Garden, the Chorus and Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, conducted by Antonio Pappano, perform much-loved arias, duets and choruses from operas by Rossini, Donizetti, Puccini and Bizet.
The international star soloists include Lisette Oropesa (soprano), Gerald Finley (bass-baritone), Aigul Akhmetshina (mezzo), Charles Castronovo (tenor), and Jeremy White (bass).
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