Christmas is fast approaching, and the BBC has unveiled its festive TV lineup, promising a wealth of shows over the two-week holiday period in December. The schedule includes a variety of specials, blockbuster films, comedies, and dramas to keep viewers entertained throughout the season.
Some eagerly awaited show details have been announced, such as what’s in store for EastEnders enthusiasts and the much-anticipated Gavin and Stacey finale.
BBC’s Chief Content Officer Charlotte Moore expressed her enthusiasm: “No one does Christmas quite like the BBC, and this year we have raised the bar even higher with a cracking line-up that will bring people together across the UK. I’m incredibly excited to be showcasing the finest British creativity and welcoming back some of the nation’s favourite characters in the last ever episode of Gavin and Stacey and the premiere of Wallace and Gromit’s new feature length adventure.
“Alongside a magical mix of new festive shows from the world of comedy, drama, entertainment and factual across the holiday season that viewers can rejoice in. Join us live or on iPlayer – there really is something for everyone!”
After a five-year hiatus, Gavin and Stacey aficionados are finally getting their wish fulfilled with a follow-up to the previous Christmas special, reports the Express.
The final episode of the popular sitcom will be broadcast on Christmas Day, where viewers will at last discover the aftermath of Nessa’s proposal to Smithy. Alongside the finale, a special documentary will narrate the journey of Gavin and Stacey as it concludes after 17 years.
Also making a comeback on the telly are the Brockmans in the Outnumbered Christmas Special, revealing what Pete, Sue and their now grown-up children have been up to.
In other news, Doctor Who returns this Christmas with Joy To The World, an adventure through Earth’s history. Ncuti Gatwa reprises his role as the Doctor, with Nicola Coughlan portraying Joy.
Call the Midwife enthusiasts are in for a treat with not one but two Christmas specials this year, ending on a cliffhanger. A new Casualty Christmas special is also on the cards, featuring several guest stars including Lucy-Jo Hudson.
Albert Square’s Christmas is always packed with drama, and this year’s EastEnders promises no less. The Beales take the spotlight on Christmas Day when Cindy’s affair with Junior is dramatically exposed.
A festive feature-length Death in Paradise Christmas special is lined up, along with the Beyond Paradise Christmas special. The popular legal drama The Split returns with a two-part festive special.
Other Christmas specials include Mrs Brown’s Boys and The Young Offenders.
There are also some celebrities testing their mettle with new skills, as the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special makes a triumphant comeback. This year, Josh Widdicombe, Tayce, Vogue Williams, Tamzin Outhwaite, Billy Monger and Harry Aikines-Aryeetey will be strutting their stuff on the dance floor.
The inaugural Gladiators Christmas special will also feature well-known personalities taking on a fresh challenge. Rob Beckett, Louise Minchin, Joel Dommet and Ellie Taylor are gearing up to try their luck as Gladiators this festive season.
Additional entertainment on the BBC’s Yuletide schedule includes Vengeance Most Fowl, the first new Wallace and Gromit film since 2008, and Tiddler, an adaptation of the popular picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.