Friday 24 Feb 2012
Programme Information
Network TV BBC Week 51/52:
BBC ONE and BBC ONE HD
www.bbc.co.uk/bbcone www.bbc.co.uk/bbchd
- Accused
- BBC Sports Personality Of The Year 2010
- Casualty – Season Of Goodwill
- Casualty – Winter Wonderland
- Come Fly With Me
- Doctor Who Christmas Special – A Christmas Carol
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- EastEnders
- Fern Britton Meets ... Sir Cliff Richard
- Holby City
- Holby City
- Imagine – Ray Davies: The Imaginary Man
- The Impressions Show With Culshaw And Stephenson
- Just William – The Sweet Little Girl In White
- Just William – Parrots For Ethel
- Just William – The School Report
- Just William – William Takes The Stage
- The Nativity
- The Nativity
- The Nativity
- The Nativity
- Nigel Slater's Simple Suppers – Planning Ahead
- Rock & Chips – Five Gold Rings
- The Royle Family – Joe's Crackers
- Strictly Come Dancing
- Strictly Come Dancing
- Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special
- Toast
- Top Of The Pops
- Upstairs Downstairs – The Fledgling
- Upstairs Downstairs – The Ladybird
- Upstairs Downstairs – The Cuckoo
Mother-of-two Alison Wade is in the dock and facing serious charges. She's in a state of shock and disbelief, in the final gritty drama by Jimmy McGovern.
Alison works at a special needs care centre. She's married to David and they adore their two young children, Hannah and Tom. But their relationship is under strain. David's been made redundant and is now looking after the children full time.
Alison has a growing relationship with Ben, a work colleague. When she is due to go away on a weekend course Alison has a drink with Ben instead, misses her train and spends the time with him. Once home it becomes obvious she has not been away on the course.
David and Alison struggle on but doubts about her faithfulness are always there. Bitterness and recriminations grow. They reach a head when Alison returns home one night after blatantly going for a drink with Ben; David commits a heinous crime against his wife.
She tells him to leave and he returns to his father, Gordon's, house. But the Wades' feud has only just begun. David's bereft when separated from daily contact with his children. Gordon, a police sergeant, hates seeing his son's heartbreak, and before long the two have conspired against Alison – but can she fight back and who will get custody of the children?
Now the jury has heard incriminating evidence against her but will it stand up?
Alison Wade is played by Naomie Harris, David Wade by Warren Clark, Hannah Wade by Janay Bell, Tom Wade by Lucas Sproul, Ben by Andrew Knott and Sergeant Gordon Wade by Tony Pitts.
CD
BBC Sports Personality Of The Year 2010
Live from Birmingham, Sue Barker, Gary Lineker and Jake Humphrey present the biggest ever Sports Personality Of The Year, celebrating the best moments from a thrilling year of sport.
This star-studded event features some of the biggest names in sport and the evening climaxes with the presentation of the most prestigious award in British sport when the Sports Personality Of The Year is crowned – an award chosen by the viewers live on the night from a shortlist of 10 contenders. Last year's crown was won by footballer Ryan Giggs.
It's been a busy year of sport with many memorable highs and lows, including the Winter Olympics, the football World Cup, Ryder Cup golf, the Commonwealth Games and one of the most exciting Formula 1 seasons ever.
The year has also seen some stunning individual performances from UK sportsmen and women. Amy Williams became the first British individual gold medallist at a Winter Olympics for 30 years, and 16-year-old Tom Daley won double gold at the Commonwealth Games. Jockey AP McCoy finally got his hands on a Grand National win and Graeme McDowell became the first European to win the US Open golf title for 40 years. Team Europe triumphed in golf's Ryder Cup showdown and England's cricketers have had a storming year, with The Ashes still to play for. It has also been a great 12 months for British athletes, with glory for stars such as Jessica Ennis and Mo Farah, plus many memorable moments from the Tour de France, gymnastics, darts and boxing.
As well as the main award of Sports Personality Of The Year, others include a very special Lifetime Achievement Award which will honour one of the world's true sporting legends. And further awards will be made to the Team Of The Year, Coach Of The Year, Overseas Sports Personality, Young Sports Personality Of The Year, Sport's Unsung Hero and the Helen Rollason Award for outstanding achievement in the face of adversity.
LW
Jordan returns to challenge Ruth's authority, Adam and Kirsty get closer and Warren's true colours are revealed, as the medical drama continues.
Jordan returns to the Emergency Department and is appalled at how Ruth has been handling the staff. Clashing with her over several of her new policies, he realises that he is needed there to keep Ruth in line. Is he prepared to put his surgical ambitions on the back burner for the good of the ED?
Lenny is feeling the pressure to find a donor match for his sister, Helen, and Yuki agrees to help illicitly screen patients as they come into the ED. Realising one patient is a partial match, Lenny's unprofessional behaviour causes great consternation when it leads to a young girl being left alone with a known sex offender. Is it time for Lenny to come clean and stop giving Helen false hope?
When Ruth finds out about Yuki and Lenny's illicit activities she is furious and demands answers. Lenny is surprised to find that Yuki has accepted full responsibility – but all becomes clear when Yuki drops a bombshell.
After coming in drunk the night before, Warren is brought into the ED, accompanied by Nita, who tells Kirsty he was smashing up her things. Adam comforts Kirsty and they share a tender moment. But when Kirsty learns that Warren might have muscular dystrophy, a debilitating disease that will leave him increasingly disabled, she is torn between her feelings and her duty. But Warren's violent true colours are finally revealed when he finds a text that Kirsty has sent to Adam...
Jordan is played by Michael French, Ruth by Georgia Taylor, Adam by Tristan Gemmill, Kirsty by Lucy Gaskell, Warren by Stephen Lord, Lenny by Steven Miller, Helen by Nicola Jo Cully, Yuki by Will Sharpe and Nita by Holly Earl.
BW2
There's a toast to good health all round as the Emergency Department staff, led by Mads and Noel, pull together to throw a Christmas party for some neglected old folk, as the medical drama continues. Meanwhile, Ruth prepares for her first Christmas with husband Edward and a guilty Kirsty struggles to work alongside Adam.
It's Christmas Eve in Holby City hospital and Ruth is determined to have a good Christmas, despite the precarious state of her marriage. When she finds a present – a badge that reads "No. 1 Doctor" – she assumes it's for her, but then Edward's ex, James, shows up at the ED wearing the badge. Realising that Edward has been lying all along, Ruth issues him an ultimatum. Will the two doctors spend their first Christmas in harmony or will this be one year Ruth doesn't forget in a hurry?
Ruth and James treat young mother Sara, whose sister, Deena, comes into the hospital along with her partner, David. The estranged sisters barely have time to make up before Ruth and James clash, causing a fatal mix-up with Sara's drugs.
Meanwhile, Kirsty is struggling to work alongside Adam after she told him last week that nothing more could happen between them. Adam spends all day trying to help her out but she refuses his assistance at every turn. Is Kirsty able to put her personal feelings to one side for the sake of their professional relationship?
Mads is missing home. She's also trying to understand why everyone seems to be miserable or drunk at Christmas. When she meets a patient, Lily, in the Clinical Decision Unit – whom everyone else thinks has been dumped in the hospital for Christmas – Mads holds out hope. With Jordan studying all day, Mads is left in charge and she and Noel throw a Christmas party for all the patients in ED. Will Lily's family turn up and prove to Mads that not everyone is horrible at Christmas time?
Mads is played by Hasina Haque, Noel by Tony Marshall, Ruth by Georgia Taylor, Edward by Steven Billington, Kirsty by Lucy Gaskell, Adam by Tristan Gemmill, James by Travis Oliver, Sara by Hollie-Jaye Bowes, Deena by Lucy-Jo Hudson, David by James Midgley and Jordan by Michael French.
BW2
Come Fly With Me Ep 1/6
Matt Lucas and David Walliams return to BBC One in a brand-new comedy series. After watching this mock documentary, viewers' opinions of airports and the people who work there will never be the same again...
The BBC's cameras have been given unprecedented access to one of Britain's busiest airport terminals. For months, the producers have followed anyone and everyone to produce this portrait of life at the cutting edge of aviation. From check-in staff to cabin crew, from pilots to paparazzi, and from low-cost airline owners to their passengers, all human life is here – and all played by Lucas and Walliams.
This week, 92-year-old Hetty Wolf takes her first-ever flight with Great British Air; husband and wife pilots Simon and Jackie sort out their marriage at 35,000 feet above Sweden; and Omar Baba, owner of low-cost carrier FlyLo, is forced to do something about the lack of life-jackets on his planes. Meanwhile, Omar's most junior employee, Taaj, is on buggy duty, and Chief Immigration Officer Ian Foot has found a suspicious passport.
Written by and starring Matt Lucas and David Walliams, Come Fly With Me is directed by Paul King (The Mighty Boosh) and produced by Adam Tandy (The Thick Of It). Lindsay Duncan is the narrator.
The BBC Comedy web team have also written exclusive content for Come Fly With Me to offer viewers a further online comedy experience at www.bbc.co.uk/comeflywithme. Over the course of the series, viewers can check in online with the help of FlyLo's Melody and Keeley, plus specially created pages for FlyLo owner Omar, Taaj – one of the airline's roving ground crew – and Our Lady Air's proudest steward, Fearghal.
Come Fly With Me is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
A feature interview with Matt and David will be available soon in Programme Information.
JD/PA
Doctor Who Christmas Special – A Christmas Carol
Amy and Rory are trapped on a crashing space liner, and the only way The Doctor can rescue them is to save the soul of a lonely old miser, in a festive edition of the time-travelling adventure, written by Steven Moffat. But is Kazran Sardick, the richest man in Sardicktown, beyond redemption? And what is lurking in the fogs of Christmas Eve?
Amy Pond is played by Karen Gillan, Rory Williams by Arthur Darvill, The Doctor by Matt Smith and Kazran Sardick by Michael Gambon.
Doctor Who is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
PPR
Despite Pat's pleas, Janine finally admits the unpalatable truth about Ryan's condition, in the week's first visit to Albert Square.
Denise is devastated when Lucas's sister, Gloria, arrives with some upsetting news.
Elsewhere, Ian accidentally reveals a dangerous secret to Peter.
And Connor faces Phil's fury when his actions risk drawing unwelcome attention.
Pat is played by Pam St Clement, Janine by Charlie Brooks, Ryan by Neil McDermott, Denise by Diane Parish, Ian by Adam Woodyatt, Connor by Arinze Kene and Phil by Steve McFadden.
AB3
Bianca resorts to desperate measures to ensure her children get the Christmas they deserve, as the action continues in Walford.
Meanwhile, Max and Vanessa struggle to play happy families with Tanya and Greg.
Elsewhere, Ryan's declaration of love leaves one of the women in his life broken-hearted – but will it be Janine or Stacey?
Bianca is played by Patsy Palmer, Max by Jake Wood, Vanessa by Zoe Lucker, Tanya by Jo Joyner, Greg by Stephan Booth, Ryan by Neil McDermott, Janine by Charlie Brooks and Stacey by Lacey Turner.
AB3
Ryan's shock announcement causes mayhem in the Vic as the Butchers square up to the Slaters, in the latest drama from the London Borough of Walford.
Elsewhere, Glenda is horrified when Peter issues her with a savage warning.
And Lauren takes drastic action to punish Stacey, much to Janine's delight.
Ryan is played by Neil McDermott, Glenda by Glynis Barber, Peter by Thomas Law, Lauren by Jacqueline Jossa, Stacey by Lacey Turner and Janine by Charlie Brooks.
AB3
Phil's plan to expose Glenda has unexpected consequences, while Peter has a shocking parting shot for Ian before leaving for good, in the latest slice of life in Albert Square.
Meanwhile, Bianca's decision to take responsibility for her actions leads to further trouble.
Elsewhere, Kim saves the day at the carol concert – much to Dot's displeasure.
And Janine's last desperate stand to expose Stacey doesn't quite go according to plan...
Phil is played by Steve McFadden, Glenda by Glynis Barber, Peter by Thomas Law, Ian by Adam Woodyatt, Bianca by Patsy Palmer, Kim by Tameka Empson, Dot by June Brown, Janine by Charlie Brooks and Stacey by Lacey Turner.
AB3
Janine's evil brooding over the discovery of Ryan's relationship with Stacey finally culminates in a spectacular announcement, in the latest visit to Walford. It means that Stacey is forced to make a life-changing decision.
Janine is played by Charlie Brooks, Ryan by Neil McDermott and Stacey by Lacey Turner.
EastEnders is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
JM3
Everyone is trying to get over the events of Christmas Day, in the latest visit to Albert Square.
Meanwhile, Carol is forced to make a tough decision.
Carol is played by Lindsey Coulson.
EastEnders is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
JM3
Connor gets into trouble with Phil, as the drama continues in the London Borough of Walford.
Elsewhere, Pat receives a worrying phone call; and Kat has a false alarm.
Connor is played by Arinze Kene, Phil by Steve McFadden, Pat by Pat St Clement and Kat by Jessie Wallace.
EastEnders is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
JM3
Dot latches onto Edward for company, in the latest visit to Walford. Elsewhere, Ryan helps a disorientated Jean.
Dot is played by June Brown, Ryan by Neil McDermott and Edward by Frank Barrie.
EastEnders is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
JM3
Syed accuses Christian of being shallow, in the latest developments in Albert Square.
Meanwhile, Ronnie and Kat get a surprise.
Syed is played by Marc Elliot, Christian by John Partridge, Ronnie by Samantha Womack and Kat by Jessie Wallace.
EastEnders is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
JM3
Christian makes a mistake, in the latest visit to Walford.
Elsewhere, Ronnie and Kat have a day they will never forget.
Christian is played by John Partridge, Ronnie by Samantha Womack and Kat by Jessie Wallace.
EastEnders is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
AB3
In the last episode of the Advent series Fern Britton talks to evergreen singer Sir Cliff Richard about how his faith has shaped his life. He has sold more than 200 million records worldwide and, although he has just turned 70, he says retirement is still not in his vocabulary.
With more than 50 years in an industry noted for its excesses, Sir Cliff is a committed Christian who enjoys merely a glass of wine – from his own vineyard, of course.
JP2
Chrissie is feeling every inch the single working mum when she arrives late for work after being up all night with Daniel, as the medical drama continues. The idea that the panel may find her to blame for a mistake on the ward following a patient complaint pushes Chrissie over the edge and she has a meltdown on the ward. When Sacha is a willing shoulder to cry on, Chrissie starts to realise how amazing he is and wonders if her perfect man is staring her in the face.
Excited to be asked to cover Registrar responsibilities, Penny lets the power go to her head. Not only does she patronise Ollie, but she also spends too little time caring for her patient and realises she has handled things badly. Penny is knocked off her high horse when her debrief with Michael feels worryingly like a date.
Joseph rallies to help Faye deal with a sick baby Harry, trying to mask his concern about Faye's state of mind. When Faye announces she doesn't want to return to Highfields, Joseph knows he has to step in and arranges for Faye and Harry to spend Christmas with him, even though this scuppers his romantic plans with Jac. Joseph feels relieved that he has done the right thing, but all is not what it seems when Faye makes a mysterious phone call. What is she planning?
Chrissie Williams is played by Tina Hobley, Sacha Levy by Bob Barrett, Penny Valentine by Emma Catherwood, Oliver Valentine by James Anderson, Michael Spence by Hari Dhillon, Joseph Byrne by Luke Roberts, Faye Byrne by Patsy Kensit and Jac Naylor by Rosie Marcel.
Holby City is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
RC
It's Christmas Day and both Connie and Faye face difficult decisions, as the medical drama continues.
When Connie's dad, William, is rushed in for emergency surgery, and a one-in-a-million heart-and-lung transplant is thrown into jeopardy for a Matrix-obsessed patient, Connie – who has made herself unpopular with the cuts she has instigated – must consider just what she wants to do with her life.
Meanwhile, in London, Faye plots to flee England with baby Harry, but Jac intercedes, bringing Faye back for a showdown with Joseph and the most difficult decision of her life...
Connie Beauchamp is played by Amanda Mealing, Faye Byrne by Patsy Kensit, William Chase by Ken Bones, Jac Naylor by Rosie Marcel and Joseph Byrne by Luke Roberts.
Holby City is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
RC
Imagine – Ray Davies: The Imaginary Man
Alan Yentob meets a man who is widely considered one of the most important songwriters in the history of popular music – The Kinks' Ray Davies.
One of the great musical innovators in the history of pop, singer-songwriter Davies shot to prominence in the Sixties as the front man and main creative force in The Kinks. The writer of a series of inspired hits (including such classics as You Really Got Me, Tired Of Waiting For You, Dedicated Follower Of Fashion, Sunny Afternoon and Waterloo Sunset), Davies established himself as one of the great laureates of British pop. The wit and subtlety of his lyrics express an essentially British suburban sensibility – yet the music of The Kinks appealed to pop fans all over the world, including the United States, where the band became one of the most important contributors of British music to the US in the early Sixties.
Describing a remarkable career that catapulted Davies from a modest boyhood home in London's Muswell Hill to some of the greatest rock stadiums in the world, this film assesses the work of a uniquely talented musician and lyricist whose work has influenced successive generations of rock bands, including outfits as diverse as The Who, The Ramones, The Clash, The Pretenders, Blur and the Kaiser Chiefs. As The Who's Pete Townshend put it: "Davies ... invented a new kind of poetry and a new kind of language for pop writing that influenced me from the very, very, very beginning."
Imagine is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
CM6
Master impressionists Jon Culshaw and Debra Stephenson bring a whole host of celebrities with a festive twist, in the last show of the series.
Katherine Jenkins and friends sing the Christmas No. 1s, with Liza Minnelli and Amy Winehouse popping up for special appearances.
Elsewhere, Lady Gaga is forced to leave a party early when she realises her outfit isn't unique; and Julie Walters and Richard Wilson appear in a Dickens drama.
Ian Hislop meets Santa and old favourite Ross Kemp investigates a gang who run a seasonal extortion racket.
Over at the Microsoft Office they are also getting into the Christmas spirit. Meanwhile, Simon helps Cheryl with her texting etiquette – just how many kisses is it polite to sign off with? And Tim Burton and his life partner prepare for Christmas Day.
NE/MF2
Just William Ep 1/4
Warren Clarke, Caroline Quentin and Daniel Roche star as Richmal Crompton's much-loved mischievous hero, Just William, returns to television screens with a new adaptation by Simon Nye. Taking Crompton's timeless short stories and setting them in the Fifties, Simon has written scripts faithful to her precise portrait of British family life.
Fresh from his success in Outnumbered, a much-shorn Daniel Roche steps up to play the title role.
The stellar cast includes Warren Clarke and Caroline Quentin as new neighbours the Botts, with Daniel Ryan and Bafta winner Rebecca Front playing William's parents. Narrating the series is the voice behind the classic recordings of the Just William stories, Martin Jarvis.
When the Bott family move into Croombe Hall, William and his gang, The Outlaws, are horrified to find themselves banned from playing in the woods. But the worst is yet to come, in the form of the frilly yet formidable Violet Elizabeth Bott. As his brother Robert, inspired by Marlon Brando's Wild One, tries and fails miserably to romance the local ladies, William and pals Ginger, Douglas and Henry find Violet Elizabeth hard to shake off – until a game of Red Indians, a thrilling chase and a very muddy bog give the boys the chance to get even with the idiotic Mr Bott.
William is played by Daniel Roche, Violet Elizabeth Bott by Isabella Blake-Thomas, Robert by Harry Melling, Ginger by Jordan Grehs, Douglas by Edward Piercy, Henry by Robert Foster and Mr Bott by Warren Clarke.
VT
Exotic Uncle Neville has come to stay, and William is not the only member of the Brown family to be impressed by his exciting tales of the African savannah, as Simon Nye's adaptation of Richmal Crompton's classic stories continues.
To prove to his mother that English animals can be just as interesting as African ones, William and The Outlaws decide to give a lecture of their own. But with only a dead dormouse and a caterpillar on the bill, things aren't looking too thrilling.
While sister Ethel languishes in quarantine, her hapless suitors provide the perfect opportunity for a spot of parrot kidnapping – and William's talk suddenly becomes a lot more interesting...
Uncle Neville is played by by Bertie Carvel, William by Daniel Roche, Mrs Brown by Rebecca Front, Ginger by Jordan Grehs, Douglas by Edward Piercy, Henry by Robert Foster and Ethel by Lily James.
VT
The summer holidays are nearly upon them but William and The Outlaws are feeling gloomy, as Richmal Crompton's classic stories, adapted by Simon Nye, continue.
A bad school report will mean lessons all summer for William – and, worse still, the Botts have sacked their favourite gardener (and William's partner in crime) Bob. A cunning plan is needed, and portly Mr Bott's unsightly efforts to fight the flab give The Outlaws exactly that – with a little bit of blackmail that might just get Bob his job back.
And a chance encounter with his formidable Aunt Augusta allows William to get rid of his dreaded school report in a most ingenious way.
William is played by Daniel Roche, Ginger by Jordan Grehs, Douglas by Edward Piercy, Henry by Robert Foster, Bob by Roy Hudd, Mr Bott by Warren Clarke and Aunt Augusta by Judy Parfitt.
VT
Tomboy Dorinda has moved into the village and, for once in his life, William seems to approve of this rat-catching, frog-stuffing girl, as Simon Nye's adaptation of Richmal Crompton's classic stories concludes. The impending school Shakespeare competition seems the perfect opportunity to impress her – but when snotty Dalrymple gets the part of Hamlet, William and his faithful Outlaws are spurred into action. It's down to William to forcibly take the stage – with inevitably disastrous consequences!
Dorinda is played by Lottie Bell, William by Daniel Roche, Dalrymple by Max Hiller, Ginger by Jordan Grehs, Douglas by Edward Piercy, Henry by Robert Foster, the school Headmaster by Denis Lawson and Mr Welbecker – the pompous Shakespeare expert – by John Sessions.
VT
The Nativity Ep 1/4
Tony Jordan's magical four-part adaptation of The Nativity begins, continuing in the lead-up to Christmas.
In Nazareth Mary counts her blessings when her parents, Joachim and Anna, arrange her betrothal to a local carpenter, Joseph. He has a good heart and she grows to love him as he struggles to build them a home under her mother's watchful eye.
In Bethlehem, Thomas the shepherd struggles to pay his taxes while his wife, Leah, is ill, weakened by the birth of her baby.
Meanwhile in the East, the three Magi, Balthasar, Melchior and Gaspar, gather to discuss signs in the heavens. As the prophecy has foretold, the planets are aligning to form a star heralding a great event.
Mary is played by Tatiana Masalany, Joachim by Neil Dudgeon, Anna by Claudie Blakely, Joseph by Andrew Buchan, Thomas by Al Weaver, Leah by Ruth Negga, Balthasar by Peter Capaldi, Melchior by Jack Shepherd and Gaspar by Obi Abili.
The Nativity is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
RN
The Nativity Ep 2/4
Mary is visited by the Angel Gabriel and learns she will bear the son of God, as the seasonal drama continues. Deeply troubled, and unable to tell Joseph of her dream, she travels to see her cousin Elizabeth who is also pregnant.
Thomas the shepherd begs for more time to pay his taxes, but the soldiers refuse to listen to his pleas. A devastated Thomas watches as precious sheep from his flock are taken as payment.
Frustrated by the Magi council's reluctance to investigate the celestial conjunction, Balthasar, Melchior and Gaspar resolve to set out on their own. They head west towards Judaea.
Mary is played by Tatiana Masalany, Angel Gabriel by John Lynch, Joseph by Andrew Buchan, Elizabeth by Frances Barber, Thomas by Al Weaver, Balthasar by Peter Capaldi, Melchior by Jack Shepherd and Gaspar by Obi Abili.
The Nativity is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
RN
The Nativity Ep 3/4
Joseph still cannot accept Mary's explanation for her pregnancy, as the Christmas story continues. Her neighbours turn against her and she's in danger of being stoned. Her father, Joachim, begs Joseph to take her to safety in Bethlehem – since he has to travel there for the census.
The arrival of the Magi on Herod's borders makes him deeply suspicious. He sends Nicolaus to discover the reason for their mission. The Magi are wary of revealing the truth to the emissary of a king with Herod's reputation.
Thomas the shepherd seeks answers for his plight. He hears of the coming of the Messiah, but takes no comfort in the words.
Joseph is played by Andrew Buchan, Mary by Tatiana Masalany, Joachim by Neil Dudgeon, Herod by Vince Regan, Nicolaus by Art Malik and Thomas by Al Weaver.
The Nativity is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
RN
The Nativity Ep 4/4
In the final part of The Nativity, Joseph and Mary arrive in Bethlehem but discover they're not welcome – Joseph's family know of Mary's apparent betrayal.
Rachel, Joseph's cousin, will not let Mary in the house and when Joseph refuses to leave her they are left to wander the streets of Bethlehem. When Mary goes into labour, Joseph has to find somewhere to give birth – he finds a stable behind an inn...
Thomas the shepherd is driven to violence in his frustration and desire for vengeance. That night, as he tends his flock with the other shepherds they are visited by the Angel Gabriel and are told the Messiah has been born. In haste they make their way to the stable.
As the stars align, Balthasar, Melchior and Gaspar hurry in disguise to Bethlehem, desperate to be present at Jesus's birth and witness what will become of one of history's most-celebrated events.
Joseph is played by Andrew Buchan, Mary by Tatiana Masalany, Rachel by Helen Schlesinger, Thomas by Al Weaver, Angel Gabriel by John Lynch, Balthasar by Peter Capaldi, Melchior by Jack Shepherd and Gaspar by Obi Abili.
The Nativity is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
RN
Nigel Slater's Simple Suppers – Planning Ahead
Nigel Slater shows how, with a little forward-planning, all the stress can be taken out of everyday suppers, in the concluding episode of his series featuring healthy, inspiring but simple dishes.
Cooking after a busy day at work is often the last thing people want to do, but Nigel inspires with a range of dishes that can be easily adapted throughout the week, including a tasty vegetable-patch stew and even home-made ice cream.
Nigel also visits James and Melissa, whose London barge is an oasis of fruit and veg. Nigel creates a delicious salad from the fruits of their labours.
The series is part of the BBC Dig-In campaign – more details can be found at bbc.co.uk/digin.
Toast, a film based on Nigel Slater's bestselling autobiography, can be seen on BBC One and BBC One HD this Christmas.
Nigel Slater's Simple Suppers is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
SB
Celebrate Christmas with the Trotters as South London's most famous family return for a seasonal helping of Rock & Chips in this hour-long comedy drama special from the pen of John Sullivan.
Starring Nicholas Lyndhurst as Freddie, Kellie Bright as Joan and James Buckley as Del, Rock & Chips picks up the Trotter story after the birth of baby Rodney in 1960 and follows the fortunes of the family as Del progresses to manhood. Phil Daniels returns as Grandad, Shaun Dingwall is back as work-shy Reg Trotter, Robert Daws reprises his role as Joan Trotter's sleazy manager and there are some new faces including Paula Wilcox as Reg's mother, Violet, Mel Smith as Freddie's nemesis, DI Thomas, and Kacey Ainsworth as Del's prospective mother-in-law.
"I'm delighted that Del's winkle-pickers and bomber jacket are back for a Christmas special on BBC One," says John Sullivan. "The first Rock & Chips was a great popular success for the channel and there are plenty more twists and turns in the Trotter family history for us to explore before we're finished."
It's Christmas 1960 and the Trotters are settling into their new flat in Sir Walter Raleigh House, Peckham. Rodney is a babe in arms, Reg is still drawing the dole and hard-working Joan is struggling to keep the family afloat after losing her jobs at the town hall and the cinema. A 16-year-old Del has left school and is exploring employment opportunities around the docks – including a nice line in selling 45s straight off the back of a boat from America – and Freddie Robdal has been temporarily detained in Wormwood Scrubs at Her Majesty's pleasure.
Joan's fortunes start to look up when she gets her old job back as the ice-cream girl at the local cinema. Freddie is released on bail but will a chance meeting with Joan rekindle dangerous old passions? And will Freddie be able to stay out of prison long enough to get to know baby Rodney?
Meanwhile Del, who has been advised that slipping an engagement ring on a girl's finger can open up a whole new world of lustful opportunity, has managed to get himself engaged to half of Peckham. But will any of his engagements lead to a trip up the aisle?
FW
The Royle Family – Joe's Crackers
It's Christmas Day at the Royles and Barbara is up to her eyes in it as Jim is out of action due to an unfortunate incident in the precinct. Dave and Denise are obviously feeling the effect of the coalition the most and worry that Anthony's lavish gifts will eclipse their present of a fridge magnet.
Joe reminisces about a tipsy evening of naked wrestling in front of the fire with Bobby Carter while Cheryl recounts her romantic encounter in the local supermarket car park.
Ricky Tomlinson is Jim Royle, Sue Johnston is Barbara Royle, Caroline Aherne is Denise Best, Craig Cash is Dave Best and Ralf Little is Anthony Royle. This Christmas special also includes appearances from Joanne Froggratt as Saskia, Peter Martin as Joe Carroll and Jessica Hynes as Cheryl Carroll.
The Royle Family – Joe's Crackers is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
CP
Strictly Come Dancing
It's finally here – the Strictly Come Dancing grand final. Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly present the ultimate dance showdown live from Television Centre. The last few surviving celebrities and their professionals take the floor by storm, hoping that it is enough to get their hands on the legendary Strictly Come Dancing 2010 glitterball trophy.
The terrific twosomes will be pulling out all the stops, performing a plethora of dazzling dances – including their showstopping Show Dance, where, lifts- and tricks-wise, anything goes. Who has saved their best dance for last and who will outshine the rest? With all the surprises and excitement so far in the competition it could be any of the fantastic contestants' night.
In this fantastic finale the couples, as always, want to impress the judges but, for this week only, it is down to the all-important votes from the viewers at home, and nothing else.
Who has waltzed and sashayed their way into the public's hearts enough to be crowned Strictly Come Dancing Champion for 2010? Find out in the Results show, which can be seen on the same night as the final, to find out.
Strictly Come Dancing is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
CK
Strictly Come Dancing
Bruce Forsyth, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman gather for the razzle-dazzle excitement that is the Strictly Come Dancing Grand Final Results show, live from Television Centre.
The celebrities and their professional partners have danced their hearts out to get to the finale of the competition. Tonight, they have done everything they can to win over the people at home. All they can do is await their fate, hoping that through all the glitz and glamour they have shone just that little bit brighter than the rest.
Which of the remaining few intrepid dancing couples have wowed the public with their magic moves? Who has been a virtuoso vision of dance delight and deserves to hold aloft the renowned Strictly Come Dancing glitterball trophy?
Finally viewers can find out who has kept dancing all the way to becoming the Strictly Come Dancing 2010 Champion.
Strictly Come Dancing is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
CK
Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special
Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly present the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special. This one-off show is a Christmas cracker exploding onto TV screens with five new celebrities – Fern Britton, June Brown, Ronni Ancona, John Barrowman and Vince Cable MP – guaranteed to bring cha-cha-cheer this festive season.
The fantastic five perform different dances to impress the Strictly judges and studio audience and sashay home with the coveted Strictly Come Dancing Christmas trophy.
Without a doubt, the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special is a veritable selection box of tasty dancing treats.
Strictly Come Dancing is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
CK
Toast
Helena Bonham Carter plays the stepmother of renowned food writer and chef Nigel Slater in Toast, a film based on his bestselling autobiography of the same name, with Freddie Highmore as a 15-year-old Slater. The film is a major highlight of the BBC One Christmas schedule and is also shown in HD.
Toast is the ultimate nostalgia trip through everything edible in Sixties Britain. Based on the heart-wrenching, bittersweet story of Nigel Slater's childhood, Toast is a delicious love letter to the tastes and smells that a young boy associates with his journey into adulthood.
Highmore is best known for his role in Tim Burton's Charlie And The Chocolate Factory and Bonham Carter has most recently starred in the visionary director's big-screen adaptation of Lewis Carroll's Alice In Wonderland, Tom Hooper's The King's Speech and BBC Four's Enid.
Toast is written by Billy Elliot and War Horse scribe Lee Hall and is directed by SJ Clarkson, best known for Life On Mars, as director and co-creator of Mistresses and more recently as director of Heroes.
Toast is a Ruby Film & Television production. The film is funded by the BBC, Screen WM and Lip Sync Productions.
The concluding episode of Nigel Slater's Simple Suppers can be seen on BBC One and BBC One HD this Christmas.
Toast is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
CM4
Top Of The Pops returns once again this Christmas, sprinkling the best music over the merry season with a special one-hour show. Hosted by Fearne Cotton and Reggie Yates and filmed at BBC Television Centre, this yuletide treat, which has been a festive fixture on BBC One's Christmas Day for decades, features exclusive performances from some of the year's biggest stars and will reveal the all-important Christmas No. 1.
TM
Upstairs Downstairs – The Fledgling Ep 1/3
The wreath above the mantelpiece is furred with dust. The chandelier is festooned with cobwebs. Then a key turns in the lock – and a handsome millionaire walks in, with the woman he loves in his arms...
This Christmas, BBC One invites viewers old and new across the threshold of one of television's most famous addresses – 165 Eaton Place. Set in 1936, this lavish three-part serial sees diplomat Sir Hallam Holland move into the iconic townhouse along with his wife, Lady Agnes. With the help of former parlourmaid Rose Buck, they launch a new whole new era for the sumptuous home at the heart of Upstairs Downstairs.
As Lady Agnes remarks: "This house is going to see such life!"
But storm clouds are gathering in Europe, and servants are no longer biddable and cheap. The Hollands' first year at Eaton Place does not unfold as either Lady Agnes or Rose anticipates.
The drama that results sets exquisite domestic detail against a sweeping historical backdrop. There may be two families living in 165 – one upstairs and one down – but their fates are intimately linked. Touching, funny, romantic and savage, the revived Upstairs Downstairs is set to enrapture a whole new audience.
It is January 1936 and King George V is dying. Sir Hallam and Lady Agnes Holland return from a diplomatic posting to Washington. They have immense plans for their future at 165 Eaton Place, which they have recently inherited from Sir Hallam's father.
The house has been empty since the Bellamy family sold it in 1931, and is in need of complete renovation. Keen to organise her servants, Lady Agnes turns to Buck's of Belgravia, an agency run by Miss Rose Buck, who was formerly in service at 165.
Rose has some reservations about the commission but the lure of Eaton Place proves irresistible. She agrees to spearhead Lady Agnes's quest for the perfect staff.
The builders set to work, and the house begins its journey back to opulence. But Lady Agnes and Sir Hallam are stunned when his mother, the widowed Maud, Lady Holland, arrives from India and reveals she's moving in. She has her Sikh secretary, Mr Amanjit, in tow, and intends to write her memoirs in the morning room. This was not in any part of their plan.
Rose – hindered more than helped by Lady Agnes – strives to find servants worthy of the house she loved so much. After some persuasion, a cook, snobbish Mrs Thackeray, agrees to come aboard. Housemaid Ivy – just 15 years old – is recruited from Dr Barnardo's, and a teenaged footman, Johnny, arrives from a mining village in the north. But Rose deems the chauffeur, Harry Spargo, rather common, and searches in vain for the perfect butler. The ghost of Mr Hudson casts a long and cherished shadow.
The family upstairs is completed by the arrival of Lady Persie, Lady Agnes's wayward younger sister. Lady Agnes plans a smart party to mark the launch of the Hollands in London. Guests will include Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden and Sir Hallam's closest friend, the Duke of Kent.
But as the party approaches, tensions rise. Maud constantly interferes with Lady Agnes's plans, resulting in the addition of the King and his mistress, Mrs Simpson, to the guest list. With the clock ticking, a panicking Rose is forced to engage a rather unusual butler, Mr Pritchard.
But the party, and its aftermath, sends shockwaves through 165 Eaton Place. Before the night is out, Rose is forced to take control. It becomes clear to both families – upstairs and downstairs – that 165 needs her to stay.
Sir Hallam Holland is played by Ed Stoppard, Lady Agnes by Keeley Hawes, Rose Buck by Jean Marsh, Maud by Eileen Atkins, Mr Amanjit by Art Malik, Mrs Thackeray by Anne Reid, Ivy by Ellie Kendrick, Johnny by Nico Mirallegro, Harry Spargo by Neil Jackson, Lady Persie by Claire Foy and Mr Pritchard by Adrian Scarborough.
Upstairs Downstairs is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
AF2
Upstairs Downstairs – The Ladybird Ep 2/3
It's June 1936 and Rose is now officially installed as housekeeper, wrangling her team of eccentrics and juveniles. Lady Agnes, meanwhile, has manoeuvred her household to the heart of London society and adores the fact that Lady Persie is a debutante. Lady Persie is bored to tears – and Maud is restless, too.
The London season is at its height and life at 165 is filled with diamonds, dancing, mink capes and champagne. But world events rumble like thunder in the distance – Sir Hallam's work is affected by Mussolini's annexation of Abyssinia and a new parlourmaid, Rachel Perlmutter, arrives as a refugee from Germany. Rachel does not take easily to domestic work, while the other servants are disconcerted by her elegance, poise and dietary habits.
However, there are celebrations upstairs and down when Lady Agnes discovers – after seven long and fruitless years of marriage – that she's expecting a child. Though she and Sir Hallam are overjoyed by the news, Lady Agnes is haunted by thoughts that things may not go well. She becomes preoccupied by her pregnancy and her husband and sister are left to their own devices.
Maud seizes the chance to draw closer to her son. Sir Hallam welcomes this when he is shaken out of his political complacency by an encounter with deposed Emperor Haile Selassie. Despite Lady Agnes's indifference, he begins to view the rise of the European right wing in a different light.
Maud also takes Lady Persie under her wing, encouraging her to think more deeply and read more widely. But she lights a fire in a dangerous place, and Lady Persie soon falls under the spell of Oswald Mosley and his British Union of Fascists. Unbeknown to the rest of the household, she forms an alliance that will drag her into moral and physical peril.
Meanwhile, as the summer progresses, Rachel bonds with fellow outsider Mr Amanjit and a tender friendship forms. She trusts him with her deepest secret – the existence of her little daughter, Lotte – and they become romantically involved.
But events are hurtling towards the powder-keg of the Cable Street riots – an explosive confrontation that ends in tragedy and has far-reaching results for all at Eaton Place.
Rose is played by Jean Marsh, Lady Agnes by Keeley Hawes, Lady Persie by Claire Foy, Maud by Eileen Atkins, Sir Hallam by Ed Stoppard and Mr Amanjit by Art Malik.
Upstairs Downstairs is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
AF2
Upstairs Downstairs – The Cuckoo Ep 3/3
It is now November 1936 and several weeks have passed since the Cable Street riots and the ensuing tragedy. Sir Hallam feels responsible for Lotte's plight and the staff are consumed by worry for her future. Maud believes the child has psychiatric problems.
Meanwhile, Lady Persie's life becomes increasingly covert and complex. In the thrall of an illicit sexual affair, she is also obsessed with right-wing politics and pursues her interests regardless of the danger to the people she loves.
Lady Agnes, due to give birth in December, has no knowledge of her sister's activities. She is both elated and anxious at the prospect of motherhood and throws herself into the preparations – decorating the nursery, seeking out a nanny and arranging to be photographed by Cecil Beaton.
Mrs Thackeray is enthralled by the thought that London's top photographer is actually in the house. Breaking bounds, she steals upstairs and sneaks a secret meeting with him. He even takes her photograph – but when Rose finds out, battle lines are drawn, and Mr Pritchard is caught between the warring women.
Tensions also deepen upstairs, as Sir Hallam is drawn into the burgeoning Abdication Crisis. His closest friend, the Duke of Kent, is desperate to stop his brother from abandoning the throne and begs Sir Hallam for help. Anthony Eden also exerts pressure – and so it comes to pass that a very special dinner is arranged at Eaton Place. The house finds itself at the eye of the storm that engulfs the Monarchy.
But it is the fate of one small child that has 165 divided. Lotte's mental condition deteriorates and Maud takes charge. To the servants' dismay, Lady Agnes permits Maud to whisk the child away to a psychiatric clinic. No cure is guaranteed and they fear they will never see Lotte again.
Sir Hallam returns from the Foreign Office late at night and is furious to find that Lotte has gone. Furious with Lady Agnes, he enlists the help of Harry Spargo and Mr Amanjit, setting out to locate the child and establish her fate. But, in doing so, he discovers more than he ever expected, and his life is thrown into utter disarray.
Sir Hallam is played by Ed Stoppard, Maud by Eileen Atkins, Lady Persie by Claire Foy, Lady Agnes by Keeley Hawes, Mrs Thackeray by Anne Reid, Rose by Jean Marsh, Mr Pritchard by Adrian Scarborough, Harry Spargo by Neil Jackson and Mr Amanjit by Art Malik.
Upstairs Downstairs is simulcast in HD on BBC One HD on Freesat channel 108, Freeview channel 50, Sky channel 143 and Virgin Media channel 108.
AF2
Programme information
Network TV
Network TV – Days
- Seasonal Highlights
- Come Fly With Me – interview with David Walliams and Matt Lucas
- Come Fly With Me – meet the characters
- EastEnders in HD feature
- Doctor Who –
The Adventure Games feature - Red button feature
- BBC ONE
- BBC TWO
- BBC FOUR
- BBC RELIGION
- BBC SPORT
- All channel print version
- Christmas press release
- BBC Christmas highlights showreel
Transmission details will be posted after final schedules for BBC Weeks 51 and 52 are confirmed.
Key
- New
- Live event/outside broadcast
- Interactive programme
- High Definition programme
bbc.co.uk navigation
Site links
BBC links
© 2012
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read more.
This page is best viewed in an up-to-date web browser with style sheets (CSS) enabled. While you will be able to view the content of this page in your current browser, you will not be able to get the full visual experience. Please consider upgrading your browser software or enabling style sheets (CSS) if you are able to do so.