BBC announces its 2022 Christmas line up across Channels and BBC iPlayer

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas as the BBC brings viewers a December to remember with plenty of programmes and box sets to delight and entertain everyone across the UK this yuletide.

The BBC’s fantastic festive line up will be available live and on-demand on BBC iPlayer and across our channels as both favourites and new offerings from the worlds of drama, comedy, entertainment and factual programmes sit alongside the very best in arts, music and religious programming. Viewers will be enthralled and captivated by a line-up like no other whenever and wherever they want to watch.

Charlotte Moore, BBC’s Chief Content Officer says: “Nothing brings people across the UK together like Christmas on the BBC and this year we’ve got a world-class line-up like no other. Get ready to escape and be entertained with an incredible range of new festive shows across every genre, live or on demand, there’s something for everyone.”

There is a story of kindness, friendship, courage and hope for viewers of all ages in a heart-warming, film based on Charlie Mackesy’s best-selling book, The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse, and there are more animated adventures with this year’s Julia Donaldson and Alex Scheffler intergalactic adaptation, The Smeds and The Smoos.

Get ready to escape into other worlds over the season with a selection of gripping new dramas. We head to a small Scottish town in the life-affirming Mayflies starring Martin Compston, Tony Curran and Ashley Jensen. Sally Wainwright’s multi-BAFTA award winning hit Happy Valley returns to the BBC for its much-anticipated third and final series.

The Call The Midwife Christmas Special sees a talent show and a fresh start for the midwives and over on the Island of Saint Marie, Commissioner Patterson (Don Warrington) is left haunted by memories of the past in a festive, feature-length episode of Death In Paradise. The residents of Walford get set to celebrate Christmas in EastEnders; while new drama boxsets to binge over the festive season include the final chapter of the epic trilogy His Dark Materials, and Strike: Troubled Blood, which sees Cormoran Strike (Tom Burke) visit family in Cornwall when he’s called on to solve a mysterious cold case.

Amongst a raft of entertainment specials, Michael McIntyre will be spinning his enormous yuletide wheel when he is joined by Gino D’Acampo, Alesha Dixon and Bear Grylls all attempting to win money for their favourite charities plus Bradley Walsh returns with a festive special of the legendary Blankety Blank, Romesh Ranganathan’s The Weakest Link and Mo Gilligan debuts TV’s newest and biggest music game show, That’s My Jam.

Strictly Come Dancing returns to the Ballroom for a fab-u-lous all-star Christmas special, plus there is a stocking stuffed with other entertainment highlights including festive episodes of The Hit List, Question of Sport, Pointless, University Challenge, Would I Lie To You and QI plus Richard Osman will open the doors to brand new episodes of his Festive House of Games and The Graham Norton Show will return for its traditional New Year’s Eve edition.

For the first time ever, the Men’s FIFA World Cup Final will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Sunday 18 December - which team will bring it ho ho home?

Comedy fans will have plenty to look forward to with loads of specials coming up. School’s out for the festive season in Motherland and Bad Education is back with not only an all-new class K, but also former classmates too. Elsewhere, Wicky heads to a blood-soaked crime scene in an ice cream parlour in The Cleaner and over in Button House the Ghosts are touched by Alison’s thoughtful generosity and are inspired to give her a special Christmas present in return.

For fans of Mrs Brown’s Boys there are two visits to Finglas this festive season and as the snow begins to fall, it’s a welcome break at the coffee shop after a spot of Christmas shopping in Two Doors Down. Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith present a special festive film from their award-winning anthology series Inside No. 9 and Detectorists, the multi award winning comedy series about metal detecting enthusiasts Andy (Mackenzie Crook) and Lance (Toby Jones), returns for a feature length special plus there will be even more laughs to come in Live at The Apollo and Frankie Boyle’s 2022 New World Order.

For the first time in Gone Fishing’s history, the angling duo leave the riverbanks of Britain behind and Paul takes Bob on a dream fishing trip to Norway – the country were Cod is God and a place that truly embodies the traditional spirit of Christmas and Dame Mary Berry will be joined by Angela Hartnett, Monica Galetti and Rylan Clark shares her ultimate Christmas feast, packed with tips to plan and get ahead for the big day whilst Sara Pascoe invites celebrities for a festive Sewing Bee Special.

It’s holiday season at The Repair Shop, where the dedicated team of craftspeople are ready to lovingly restore some treasured Christmas keepsakes; and Antiques Roadshow hosts a Special Episode about toys and games and how they have shaped our childhoods.

Natural history lovers will be transported to the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, as we meet a group of Barbary macaque monkeys in Dynasties II (Macaque) before Gordon Buchanan gets close to seven incredible huskies on a treacherous dogsled adventure through Canada’s spectacular Yukon wilderness in Snow Dogs in the Wild and there will be a special edition of Frozen Planet II.

In music, Top Of The Pops returns for a Christmas special hosted by Radio 1’s Clara Amfo and Jack Saunders and in Cliff at Christmas Sir Cliff Richard chats to Sara Cox about his incredible 64 year career and also performs some of his Christmas classics, new songs and best loved hits. On New Year’s Eve Jools Holland will host his annual Hootanany whilst Eurovision and break through music artist of 2022, Sam Ryder, is joined by some of music’s biggest stars to put on a spectacular New Year’s Eve party.

In My Life at Christmas, actress and comedian Sally Phillips meets three well-known faces to explore how their memories of Christmas reflect the enormous changes they have gone through in their lives, careers, family and faith and there will be three special episodes of inspiring hymns in Songs of Praise, together with uplifting stories of faith from around the UK and beyond.

Winding down Christmas Day to a gentle close, Oti Mabuse reads the story of the first Christmas from the Gospel according to St Luke in On Christmas Night and live from Blackburn Cathedral, Carols From King’s will feature the world-renowned choir, directed by Daniel Hyde, singing carols old and new.

Bringing some foodie fun to the festive season, MasterChef judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace are back once again for two specials, inviting eight of the most memorable celebrities from past series back into the infamous MasterChef kitchen and a sensational year of sport will be celebrated as BBC Sports Personality of the Year comes live from MediaCity UK in Salford.

Count Magnus is the latest ghost story for Christmas from Mark Gatiss coming to the BBC and Gatiss also stars as Jacob Marley in a stage production of A Christmas Carol in his own retelling of Dickens’ classic winter ghost story.

There will be a new adaptation of Coppélia which combines enchanting animation and live action dance in a modern take on the much-loved ballet and Choreographer and director Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker offers a distinctive contemporary take on the classic Christmas tale plus one of the world’s leading forensic investigators, Professor Dame Sue Black, will deliver this year’s Christmas Lectures from the Royal Institution.

A host of children’s favourites including Ben Cajee, Jennie Dale, Andy Day and Justin Fletcher will star in CBeebies latest reimagining of a the classic pantomime Dick Whittington and Gangsta Granny will strikes again alongside loads more Christmas Crackers for the young ones to enjoy including a Malory Towers Christmas Special, Dodger Christmas Special and Mr Tumble himself Justin Fletcher and friends are back with a Christmas episode of Something Special.

And if all that weren’t enough, there will be hundreds of box sets and classic Christmas specials to stream on BBC iPlayer from much-loved shows like Gavin and Stacey, Ghosts, Miranda, Citizen Khan, Call the Midwife and Not Going Out.

What's on BBC TV and BBC iPlayer this Christmas?

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas as the BBC brings viewers a December to remember with plenty of programmes and box sets to delight and entertain everyone across the UK this yuletide.

BBC One

The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

A story of kindness, friendship, courage and hope for viewers of all ages in a heart-warming, hand-drawn traditionally animated film based on Charlie Mackesy’s book, The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse. The poignant and heartfelt journey follows the unlikely friendship of a boy, a mole, a fox and a horse travelling together in the boy’s search for home.

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse is a Matthew Freud production of a Charlie Mackesy film, produced by NoneMore Productions and Bad Robot Productions (1 x 32 mins) for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It was acquired by Charlotte Moore, BBC Chief Content Officer and Ayela Butt, BBC Drama Commissioning Executive.

CharlieMackesyFilm@freuds.com

The Smeds and the Smoos

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

From Oscar nominated producer, Magic Light Pictures, The Smeds and The Smoos is a half hour special, adapted for screen and based on the best-selling picture book by creators Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. In this animated intergalactic adventure, the red Smeds and the blue Smoos must learn to overcome their differences and work together to find young Janet and Bill – who eloped to escape their families’ long standing rivalries.

The cast stars Adjoa Andoh as Grandmother Smoo, Bill Bailey as Grandfather Smed, Rob Brydon as Uncle Smoo, Daniel Ezra as Bill, Sally Hawkins as Narrator, Ashna Rabheru as Janet, and Meera Syal as Aunt Smed. The film will premiere on BBC One this Christmas and will stream on BBC iPlayer.

steph@faberbishopp.co.uk / tamara@faberbishopp.co.uk

Motherland: Last Christmas

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

School’s out for the festive season so the mums, and Kevin (Paul Ready), are busy prepping for the ultimate in blended Christmas celebrations.

It’s a full house at Julia’s (Anna Maxwell Martin) with an influx of grandparents demanding endless cups of tea, as they play with a VR headset Paul bought “for the kids”. Julia has invited Kevin along too after learning that his alternative was dining on turkey crisps from the hotel vending machine in the company of the other divorced dads. Kevin excitedly offers to whip up a full-on Persian feast. Liz (Diane Morgan) also turns up when her ex cancels following a massive Christmas Eve bender, letting her down on his first ever offer to host.

Meanwhile, Amanda (Lucy Punch) is spending Christmas Day with Johnny (Terry Mynott), the kids and Johnny’s new wife Tamara (Louise Delamere). Which is fine. Really fine. It’s fine. Amanda’s mother Felicity (Joanna Lumley) has been invited too and jumps at the chance to revel in the awkward atmosphere. The contrast with Christmas at Anne’s (Philippa Dunne) house couldn’t be starker; Anne is hosting her mammy (Maggie McCarthy) and the cousins – all 29 of them - and is beside herself with excitement.

Despite their enduring love-match, Meg’s (Tanya Moodie) husband Bill buys her a present so dire that it has her questioning whether he really knows her at all. She gets stuck into the plentiful supply of booze she’s bought for the day but regrets the drunken results when something really shocking happens over the road at Julia’s.

Motherland is written by Sharon Horgan (Catastrophe, Divorce, Pulling), Holly Walsh (Dead Boss, The Other One), Helen Serafinowicz (Motherland), and Barunka O'Shaughnessy (Timewasters).

Motherland is a Merman production with TwoFour for BBC Two and will be distributed by Lionsgate. It was commissioned by Jon Petrie, Controller Comedy Commissioning. Produced by Caroline Norris and directed by Simon Hynd, the Executive Producers are Clelia Mountford, Sharon Horgan, Holly Walsh, Helen Serafinowicz and Barunka O’Shaughnessy. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Tanya Qureshi.

MJ

Happy Valley

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Sally Wainwright’s multi-BAFTA award winning hit Happy Valley returns to the BBC for its third and final series, starring Sarah Lancashire as Sergeant Catherine Cawood. When Catherine discovers the remains of a gangland murder victim in a drained reservoir, it sparks a chain of events that leads her straight back to Tommy Lee Royce [James Norton]. Her grandson, Ryan [Rhys Connah], is now sixteen and has ideas of his own about the kind of relationship he wants to have with the man Catherine refuses to acknowledge as his father, leaving Catherine’s sister Clare [Siobhan Finneran] caught in the middle. In another part of the valley, a local pharmacist gets in over his head when a neighbour is arrested.

Happy Valley series three (6x60’) is a Lookout Point production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Executive producers are Sally Wainwright and Sarah Lancashire, with Faith Penhale and Will Johnston for Lookout Point, Ben Irving and Rebecca Ferguson for the BBC. In advance of series three, the first two series of Happy Valley are available to watch on BBC iPlayer now.

SH2

The Hit List Christmas Special

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

It’s time to jingle all the way to a star-studded Christmas Special of The Hit List!

The three teams joining Marvin and Rochelle Humes to test their music knowledge for this festive treat are presenter Arielle Free and music legend Paul Young, Mrs Browns Boys stars Fiona O’Carroll and Eilish O’Carroll, and DJs Gary Davies and Richie Anderson; but who will be Driving Home For Christmas with a potential £10,000 win for their chosen charity? Get ready to play along and shout out the answers at the telly!

The Hit List Christmas Special (1x45’) is a Tuesday’s Child Scotland production and was commissioned for BBC One by Kate Phillips in her capacity as Director of Entertainment. The Executive Producer is Karen Smith for Tuesday’s Child Scotland and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Neil McCallum.

CM2

The Weakest Link Christmas Special

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Romesh Returns with a Christmas Special of The Weakest Link and will be joined by 8 celebrities, each with their own connection to Christmas who will have to work as a team to try to win a maximum prize of £50,000 for their chosen charity.

Each round one player will be voted The Weakest Link by their fellow contestants and will leave with nothing. After a final head to head one celebrity will be crowned The Strongest Link and will take the prize.

The Weakest Link, a 1 x 45’ is a BBC Studios Entertainment Production for BBC One and iPlayer. It was commissioned by Kate Phillips in her capacity as Director of Entertainment. The Executive Producer for BBC Studios is Pete Ogden. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Neil McCallum.

simon.candon@bbc.co.uk

That’s My Jam

 

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Multi BAFTA award winning Mo Gilligan hosts TV’s biggest music game show, That’s My Jam.

Each week two new teams of celebrities take on a host of super-sized musical challenges as Mo pushes their singing abilities, performance skills and musical knowledge to the limit as they compete to be declared That’s My Jam champions.

But which team will be victorious as they blast their best vocals and bust their best moves playing games such as The Wheel of Impossible Karaoke, Launch The Mic, The Vinyl Countdown, Disco Charades and Take on Mo before facing the mighty DoomBox in the epic end game, Slay It, Don’t Spray It!?

Who has the rhythm and who will be left with the blues? Let the musical mayhem begin!

That’s My Jam (8 x 60) is produced by Universal International Studios’ Monkey in partnership with Universal Television Alternative Studio for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Kate Phillips in her capacity as Director of Entertainment Commissioning at the BBC. The Executive Producers for Monkey are Will Macdonald and Andy Price. The Series Producer is Isabel Forte. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Pinki Chambers.

HM2

Sam Ryder's All Star New Year's Eve

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Eurovision and break through music artist of ’22, Sam Ryder, is joined by some of music’s biggest stars to put on a spectacular New Year Eve party as we build up to the midnight moment. Performing hits which span the decades, Sam and his all-star guests rock into the New Year. After midnight, the party continues with Sam’s take on classics and special duets.

Sam Ryder's All Star New Year's Eve (2 x 30) is a BBC Studios production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer and was commissioned by Jonathan Rothery, Head of Popular Music, TV. The Series Editor is Lewis Thurlow and the Executive Producer is Mel Balac. The Director is Julia Knowles and the Commissioning Editors for the BBC are Jonathan Rothery and Dawn Payne.

MJ

The Cleaner Christmas Special

 

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

 

It’s Christmas Day and Wicky is looking forward to winning Weasel’s Christmas raffle: first prize, an actual horse. All that stands in his way is a blood-soaked crime scene in an ice cream parlour, and a regular customer who isn’t going to let a little thing like a murder stop him from getting the perfect peach melba ice-cream.

The Cleaner Christmas Special is a Studio Hamburg UK (1 x 30) for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Jon Petrie, Director of Comedy Commissioning. The Executive Producer for Studio Hamburg UK is Vivien Muller-Rommel and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Ben Caudell.

eloise.longden@bbc.co.uk

Ghosts Christmas Special

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

The Ghosts, touched by Alison’s thoughtful generosity, are inspired to give her a special Christmas present in return – but with Alison due back in a matter of hours, can they pull off their ambitious plan in time? Mike’s loaded Tupperware comes in handy when their journey hits a bump in the road, forcing them to reassess their Christmas day plans. And Kitty gets her moment in the spotlight thanks to a much-needed pep talk from a surprising source.

The Ghosts will also get together for a special festive episode of the companion podcast Inside… Ghosts: Christmas Special, featuring Jim Howick (Pat) and Mathew Baynton (Thomas), available on BBC Sounds straight after the Ghosts Christmas special airs on BBC One.

Ghosts is a half hour Christmas Special for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Jon Petrie, Director of Comedy. The Executive Producers for Monumental Television are Alison Carpenter, Debra Hayward and Alison Owen and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Seb Barwell. The producer is Pat Tookey-Dickson, the director is Simon Hynd and the episode is written by Mathew Baynton and Jim Howick.

Mathew Baynton, Simon Farnaby, Martha Howe-Douglas, Jim Howick, Laurence Rickard, Ben Willbond are also executive producers.

LV

Mrs Browns Boys - Christmas & New Year Specials

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Episode 1: Mammy's Creepy Christmas

Cathy’s creepy boyfriend is initiated into the family and Agnes gets a festive fright when looking after his spooky twins. Meanwhile Bono rethinks his eco-kick after a lesson from Agnes.

Episode 2: Mammy's Hair Loom

Buster and Dermot are convinced Cathy’s boyfriend is a vampire and there’s only one way to deal with vampires. Meanwhile, Agnes awaits the valuation of an ‘antique’ vase that’s been in the family for generations

Mrs Brown’s Boys is a BBC Studios Comedy Production in partnership with BOC-PIX and RTE (2 x 30) for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The Executive Producers for BBC Studios Comedy are Steven Canny and Josh Cole, Brendan O’Carroll and Fiona Gibney for BOC-PIX and Justin Healy for RTE. Written by Brendan O’Carrolll, the specials are directed by Nick Wood. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Gregor Sharp.

SC2

Two Doors Down Christmas Special

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

As the snow begins to fall, it’s a welcome break at the coffee shop after a spot of Christmas shopping where Christine surprises the neighbours with some uncharacteristic festive generosity.

Two Doors Down is a BBC Studios Comedy production in Scotland (1 x 30) for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Seb Barwell, Commissioning Editor. Written by Simon Carlyle and Gregor Sharp, the director is Ben Gosling Fuller and the producer is Jacqueline Sinclair. The Executive Producer for BBC Studios is Steven Canny and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Seb Barwell.

FM

Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Strictly Come Dancing returns to the Ballroom for an all-star Christmas special, once again bringing festive fun, frolics and fab-u-lous dancing to homes across the nation.

Six stars will take to the floor in a bid to be crowned Christmas Champion 2022, but will the judges be naughty or nice to them?

Hosted by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, the Christmas Special will include a merry musical performance and some spectacular group routines including the celebrities and their professional partners, guaranteed to spread Christmas cheer.

The Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Christmas Day.

SH3

Blankety Blank Christmas Special

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Blankety Blank is a Thames (a Fremantle label) production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Kalpna Patel-Knight. The Executive Producer for Thames is Christopher Barbour and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Kalpna Patel-Knight

Bradley Walsh returns with a festive special of the legendary Blankety Blank. A panel of six celebrities will fill in the missing BLANKS to help some very lucky contestants win some amazing prizes.

Joining the panel this week for a fun and festive Christmas special are TV presenters Alison Hammond and Jonathan Ross, comedians Alex Horne and Guz Khan, and actresses Dame Joanna Lumley and Joanna Page.

Ant.Fragnito@fremantle.com

Michael McIntyre's Christmas Wheel

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Three celebrity contestants – TV Chef Gino D’Acampo, singer and TV personality Alesha Dixon and adventurer Bear Grylls – attempt to complete the Wheel to win money for their chosen charities this Christmas.

Trying to help the three famous faces on bank as much cash as possible are seven celebrity experts; singer and presenter Michael Ball OBE, comedian Rosie Jones, author and etiquette expert William Hanson, singer-songwriter Fleur East, celebrity chef Hugh Fearney Whittingstall, TV presenter AJ Odudu and comedian, musician and actor Bill Bailey. They will take their turn to try and help answer questions on everything from Elves, to Christmas Parties even Carols and Christmas decorations Whose help will be the perfect present and who has got their traditions in a whirl?

Full of laughs and plenty of festive cheer, The Wheel will get viewers in a spin in this special yuletide edition.

Michael McIntyre’s Christmas Wheel (1x60) is a Hungry McBear Media production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Charlotte Moore, Director of BBC Content, and Kate Phillips, Commissioning Director, Unscripted. The Executive Producers for Hungry McBear Media are Dan Baldwin and Tom Blakeson. The Senior Head of Commissioning, Entertainment for the BBC is Kalpna Patel-Knight.

MJ

The Graham Norton Show New Year’s Eve Special

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

The Bafta award-winning chat show returns for its traditional New Year’s Eve edition on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Together on Graham’s Hogmanay sofa will be Oscar-winning Olivia Colman (The Favourite, The Crown), and BAFTA rising star Micheal Ward (Top Boy), co-starring in Sam Mendes’ powerful romantic drama Empire of Light; musician, writer and comedy great Hugh Laurie; actor and award-winning stand-up Romesh Ranganthan; one of the stars of 2022, footballer Leah Williamson (who captained England’s Lionesses to victory in the Euros); and the stars of Cabaret, Callum Scott-Howells (It’s A Sin) and Madeline Brewer (The Handmaid’s Tale), who chat and perform “Willkommen” and “Don’t Tell Mama” from the hit West End revival. Plus, end-of-year stories from the audience in Graham’s world-famous Big Red Chair.

The Graham Norton Show, a 1 x 60’ is made by So Television for BBC One and iPlayer. Commissioned by Kate Phillips in her capacity of Director of Entertainment Commissioning the show. The Series Producer is Jon Magnusson and the Executive Producer is Graham Stuart. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Neil McCallum.

Mary@marycollins-pr.com

MasterChef Christmas Specials

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Celebrity MasterChef Christmas Cook-Off and Festive Extravaganza

Bringing some foodie fun to the festive season, MasterChef judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace are back once again for both a Christmas and Festive special, inviting eight of the most memorable celebrities from past series back into the infamous MasterChef kitchen.

Expect a real cracker from the Christmas MasterChef kitchen with plenty of laughs, songs, and some astonishing food.

Celebrity MasterChef Christmas Cook-Off will see Happy Monday’s legend Bez; Athletics World Champion Iwan Thomas MBE; Pop star Josh Cuthbert and opera singing superstar Lesley Garrett CBE, compete to be crowned Celebrity MasterChef Christmas Champion 2022.

While Dancer AJ Pritchard; Actor Chizzy Akudolu; British Drag Performer Kitty Scott-Claus and reality star and X-Factor winner Megan McKenna, go all out as one cook will be crowned Celebrity MasterChef Festive Champion 2022.

Celebrity MasterChef Christmas Cook-Off and Celebrity MasterChef Festive Extravaganza, are 2x60’ for BBC One and iPlayer, made by Shine TV. Commissioned by Kate Phillips and Sarah Clay. The Commissioning Editor is Sarah Clay and the Executive Producer is David Ambler, and Series Editor Katie Attwood.

abigail@plankpr.com

Pointless Celebrities Christmas Special

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

A special festive edition of the general knowledge quiz in which four teams try to come up with the answers that no-one else could think of.

Presented by Alexander Armstrong and co-host Richard Osman. Featuring TBC.

Pointless Celebrities is a Remarkable (1 x 49min) production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The Executive Producers for Remarkable are Tamara Gilder & Richard Hague. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Neil McCallum.

programmes.desk@bbc.co.uk

Would I Lie to You Christmas Special

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Rob Brydon is back in the host’s chair for a festive edition of Would I Lie To You?

Would I Lie To You? At Christmas is a Zeppotron Limited (1 x 30) production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The Executive Producers for Zeppotron Ltd are Rachel Ablett and Peter Holmes and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Pinki Chambers.

programmes.desk@bbc.co.uk

Question of Sport

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

In the Question of Sport Christmas Special, Paddy McGuinness hosts alongside regular team captains Sam Quek and Ugo Monye. Joining them are Strictly Come Dancing's Kai Widdrington, presenter and Love Island star Chris Hughes, England goalkeeper David James and Britain's most successful Paralympian Sarah Storey.

Question of Sport is a BBC Studios (36 x 30) for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The Executive Producer for BBC Studios is Gareth Edwards and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Katie Taylor.

SC2

BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2022

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

A sensational year of sport will be celebrated as BBC Sports Personality of the Year comes live from Media City UK in Salford.

Gary Lineker, Clare Balding, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott will look back at the year’s biggest triumphs, with the evening being rounded off as the public-voted Sports Personality of the Year 2022 is crowned.

The 69th edition of the glittering awards show will champion those in the world of elite sport, as well as the unsung heroes in local communities who do inspiring work at grassroots level.

BBC Sports Personality of the Year is made by BBC Sport in house. Head Of Production: Debbie Dubois; Editor: Marc Vesty, Creative Director: Gabby Cook.

ZB

The Great British Sewing Bee: Celebrity Christmas Special

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Sara Pascoe, Esme Young and Patrick Grant invite celebrity sewers for a festive Sewing Bee Special. Strictly's Johannes Radebe, EastEnder’s Natalie Cassidy, Podcaster Rosie Ramsey and TV personality Penny Lancaster take on a pattern for a Christmas apron and turn a sack full of children's hand me downs into a novelty outfit for a baby. Finally they create pop star inspired fancy dress to ring in the New Year before dancing the night away to a Dolly Parton classic.

The Great British Sewing Bee: Celebrity Christmas Special, a 1x60’ for BBC One and iPlayer, is made by Love Productions. It was commissioned by Catherine Catton, Head of Commissioning, Factual Entertainment and Live Events. The Executive Producers are Susanne Rock and Richard McKerrow and the Commissioning Editor is Patrick McMahon.

TD

Antiques Roadshow Christmas Special: Toys and Childhood

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Antiques Roadshow hosts a Special Episode about toys and games and how they have shaped our childhoods. Drawing together stories filmed all across the country this summer, with specially selected items filmed at the Museum of the Home in East London.

From a 4,000 year-old pull-along toy, to one of the first personal computer consoles; the Roadshow team explores how toys and our notions of childhood have changed over time.

Raj Bisram discovers a collection of Action Men, while Marc Allum tries his hand at some old school Subbuteo. We see toys drawn from a history of conflict, as Bunny Campione hears the story of a Mickey Mouse figure given to a family member escaping Occupied France, while Fiona Bruce delves into the museum archives to uncover a unique Christmas present made from an old gas mask box. Our experts bring along some of their own childhood toys, including Mark Smith’s teddy, Bunny Campione’s original soft toy bunny which she is named after and a bottle rocket that Ronnie Archer-Morgan played with as a child in the 1950s.

Finally, the team uncovers some antiques for the future, including a collection of signed first edition Raymond Briggs books and some original draft drawings of hit children’s television favourites, the Teletubbies.

Antiques Roadshow Christmas Special is a BBC Studios (1 x 60min) for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The Series Editor is Robert Murphy and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Clare Mottershead.

programmes.desk@bbc.co.uk

Mary Berry's Ultimate Christmas

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

In this brand new programme, Dame Mary Berry shares her ultimate Christmas feast, packed with tips to plan and get ahead for the big day.

Using her definitive tried and tested recipes, she will offer her guide for a fool-proof delicious three-course festive dinner. It begins with her deliciously simple Stilton and sage mini scone canapés, followed by her traditional Christmas feast including lemon and herb roast turkey, crispy roast potatoes, ruby red cabbage and apricot and chestnut stuffing. To complete the festive feast are two desserts. Mary’s British Christmas pudding recipe goes back to Medieval times – a rich mix of dried fruit and nuts, served alongside a boozy cream. Alongside this is a Festive trifle with layers of custard, cream, sponge and pear, topped with spun sugar.

Mary will also be joined by friends Chef Angela Hartnett, Chef Monica Galetti and broadcaster Rylan Clark, to toast and tuck into this incredible Christmas spread, as well as share festive recipes of their own.

Mary visits Angela at home, where she cooks up rich pumpkin ricotta tortelli, a seasonal tradition for her Italian family; and is welcomed to Monica's London restaurant kitchen where she prepares a twist on Samoan palusami with smoked haddock, cavolo nero and sourdough, a dish she’ll be serving to her family on Christmas Day.

Mary and Rylan visit a ‘pick your own’ vegetable farm where they cook up Brussels sprouts with peas and cashews to try and convert some local sprout-hating kids. The perfect meal also needs the perfect setting and Mary also shows how to create a sustainable and cost-conscious centre-piece from foraged greenery.

Mary Berry's Ultimate Christmas, a 1 x 60 for BBC One and BBC iPlayer, is made by Rumpus Media. It was commissioned by Catherine Catton, Head of Commissioning, Factual Entertainment and Events. The Executive Producers are Emily Hudd and Kelly Sparks and the Commissioning Editor is Ricky Cooper.

TD

Frozen Planet II: Worlds of Wonder

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

This special episode brings together highlights from the series, in a journey from the Arctic to the Antarctic.

At the end of winter in the frozen Arctic ocean, two polar bears meet on the ice, and together they enjoy several hours playing together – seemingly dancing on ice.

On the coast of Greenland, the Arctic pack ice serves a very important purpose – it is a nursery for baby harp seals.

South of the Arctic, temperatures can fall to -40C and here we meet a super-pack of wolves, who must work together to take down the only substantial prey available to them at this time of year – American bison.

On the high-altitude cold steppe of Mongolia, a Pallas cat faces life alone. He may have the densest fur of any cat in the world, but he also has the shortest legs - which makes hunting prey in snow challenging…

Golden eagles live in the mountains all year, surviving on prey live and dead. In spring, when their neighbours chamois have calves, it’s an opportune time for the eagles to raise their chicks. But as the chamois calves grow, conditions become more challenging until, in autumn, one pair of golden eagles decide to take on prey many times larger than them…and in Mount Kenya, a mother chameleon must hunker down overnight while temperatures plummet, but by day she must race to feed and breed.

Even in summer in Antarctica, its waters are choked with millions of ice floes… the perfect place for Weddell seals to haul out after a nights feed. But they are not alone… with the most sophisticated hunting strategy of any animal, a pod of killer whales has an ingenious way to catch food resting on the ice above.

Our journey finishes in the coldest, darkest winter on Earth when Emperor penguin chicks face one of the toughest upbringings on the planet.

Frozen Planet: Worlds of Wonder, a 1x60’ for BBC One and iPlayer, is made by BBC Studios Natural History Unit. It was commissioned by Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning, Specialist Factual, and the Executive Producer is Mark Brownlow.

TD

Dynasties II (Macaque)

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

High in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, lives a group of Barbary macaque monkeys. The Alpha male, known as Mac, has just battled to win the crown. He must now lead and protect his troop, while fending off rivals who still want his crown…

Mac leads his troop through his first year as alpha, facing both the scorching summer drought, and snowy frozen winter, all while trying to defend his throne.

But a costly misjudgement leads to Mac’s leadership coming under even greater threat. As mating season approaches, his allies start to turn against him, and a brutal attack sees him deposed, and banished from the group.

But the new alpha is a much more aggressive leader… With the troop unsettled, Mac seizes the opportunity to make a new ally, and not only find his way back into the group, but also reclaim the top spot.

Mac will have to make decisions, forge alliances, face challenges and battle the elements in a bid to hold on to his crown, and keep his huge extended family safe. But by overcoming the challenges he faces, he is able to sire a possible future heir to his throne and start his own dynasty.

Dynasties II – Macaque, a 1x60’ for BBC One from BBC Studios Natural History Unit, was commissioned by Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning, Specialist Factual. The Executive Producer is Mike Gunton and the Series Producer is Simon Blakeney.

TD

Gangsta Granny Strikes Again

BBC One & CBBC & BBC iPlayer

Gangsta Granny Strikes Again!, an adaptation of the hugely popular 2021 children’s book written by David Walliams, comes to CBBC, BBC One and iPlayer this Christmas.

This comedy-drama, the sequel to the 2013 BBC One movie Gangsta Granny, features a stellar cast which includes Walliams himself as Dad, Mike, Sheridan Smith as Mum, Linda, Kevin Bishop as Italian dancer Flavio, Maggie as Queen, Griff Rhys Jones as Mr Parker and young Archie Yates as grandson Ben.

We join Ben a year on as he is getting used to life without his beloved Gran. With the memory of their daring Crown Jewel heist still fresh in his mind, he is stunned to learn another spate of thefts are beginning to occur – with all the clues pointing to The Black Cat, better known to Ben as Granny!

Gangsta Granny Strikes Again! is made by King Bert Productions, their Executive Producer is Jo Sarjent, and the Executive Producer for CBBC is Melissa Hardinge. It was commissioned by BBC Children’s Head of Commissioning and Acquisitions 7+, Sarah Muller.

HH / JC4

CBeebies Christmas Show 2022 - Dick Whittington

BBC One & CBeebies & BBC iPlayer

A host of children’s favourites including Ben Cajee, Jennie Dale, Andy Day and Justin Fletcher star in CBeebies latest reimagining of a classic pantomime.

Dick Whittington and his best friend Lucky the Cat travel to London for the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Parade and are charged to look after the Golden Hammer. The Christmas Parade can only begin when the mayor rings Big Ben with the hammer so until then the duo need to keep it safe. However three mischievous rats steal the hammer hoping to use its magic to turn the parade totally ratty. A tale of friendship, adventure and surprises unfolds as Dick Whittington and his Cat try to rescue the hammer, find their inner sparkle and make sure it’s a Christmas Parade everyone can enjoy.

Directed by Chris Jarvis the colourful stage show is full of sing-a-long songs from Banks and Wag and laugh out loud fun for all the family to enjoy.

Dick Whittington and His Cat is made by BBC Studios Kids and Family Productions for CBeebies. Series Producer is Anna Perowne and Executive Producer is Vanessa Amberleigh.

It was commissioned for CBeebies by Kate Morton, Head of Commissioning and Acquisitions 0-6

HH

Mayflies

Matt Littleson (Limbo) Rian Gordon (young Jimmy) Tom Glynn Carney (young Tully) Paul Gorman (Hogg) and Mitchell Robertson (Tibbs)

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Everyone has a Tully Dawson (Tony Curran) - the friend who defines your life. In the summer of 1986, in a small Scottish town, Jimmy (Martin Compston) and Tully ignite a brilliant friendship based on music, films and the rebel spirit. With school over and the locked world of their fathers before them, they rush towards the climax of their youth - a magical weekend in Manchester, the epicentre of everything that inspires them in working-class Britain. There, against the greatest soundtrack ever recorded, a vow is made: to go at life differently. Thirty years on, half a life away, the phone rings. Tully has the worst kind of news, and a request that will test their friendship, love, and loyalty to the limit…

Adapted by Andrea Gibb (Elizabeth Is Missing) from Andrew O’Hagan’s acclaimed novel of the same name and directed by Peter Mackie Burns (Rialto) and produced by Synchronicity Films (The Cry), Mayflies is a memorial to youth’s euphoria and to everyday tragedy. A tender goodbye to an old union, it discovers the joy and the costs of love.

Mayflies is a Synchronicity Films production, a co-commission with BBC Scotland in association with All3Media International with support from Screen Scotland (2x60”) for BBC One, BBC Scotland and BBC iPlayer.

It was commissioned by Ben Irving, Acting Director of Drama, Gaynor Holmes, BBC Drama Commissioning Editor and co-commissioned by Louise Thornton, Head of Multi-Platform Commissioning for BBC Scotland.

Mayflies is produced by Brian Kaczynski and executive produced by Claire Mundell for Synchronicity Films, Andrea Gibb, Andrew O’Hagan, Gavin Smith for BBC Scotland and Gaynor Holmes for BBC Drama.

HW

Call the Midwife Christmas Special

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

It is December 1967 and with Christmas fast approaching, life in Poplar is returning to normal after the terrible train crash. Trixie (Helen George) arrives back from Portofino, looking poised and beautiful, much to the delight of Matthew (Olly Rix).

The midwives move the maternity clinic into new premises and are delighted when one of their first patients through the door is Rhoda Mullocks (Liz White) who the team know well. Rhoda is heavily pregnant, and understandably nervous, after her last baby was born with limbs that have been affected by Thalidomide.

Nurse Crane (Linda Bassett) cares for a heavily pregnant single mother, recently released from prison, while Sister Frances (Ella Bruccoleri) is called out to deliver a Sylheti mother’s child in a garment factory in a rough area of Poplar.

Elsewhere, Fred (Cliff Parisi) decides that Poplar needs to come together to raise money for those families still affected by the train crash and pitches the wonderful idea of a festive talent show – Poplartunity Knocks!

Call The Midwife is a Neal Street Production (X75 minutes) for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Charlotte Moor, Chief Content Officer. The Executive Producers for Neal Street Productions are Pippa Harris, Heidi Thomas and Ann Tricklebank. Writer is Heid Thomas and Director is Ann Tricklebank. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Mona Qureshi.

jeni@ijpr.co.uk

Strike: Troubled Blood

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Private detective Cormoran Strike (Tom Burke) is visiting his family in Cornwall when he’s approached by a woman, Anna Phipps (Sophie Ward) asking for help finding her mother, Margot Bamborough (Abigail Lawrie), who went missing under mysterious circumstances in 1974.

Strike’s never tackled a cold case before let alone one forty years old, but despite the slim chance of success, he’s intrigued and takes it on, adding to the long list of cases that he and his partner in the agency Robin Ellacott (Holliday Grainger) are currently working on. Robin herself is also juggling a messy divorce and unwanted male attention as well as battling her own feelings about Strike.

As Strike and Robin investigate Margot’s disappearance, they come up against a fiendishly complex case with a psychopathic serial killer and witnesses who cannot all be trusted. They learn that even cases decades old can prove to be deadly.

Sue Tully is directing. Her credits include Too Close, Strike - Lethal White, Line of Duty, Tin Star, The A Word and The Musketeers.

Ruth Kenley-Letts (Too Close, Strike, You Don’t Know Me), J.K. Rowling (Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Strike, The Casual Vacancy), Neil Blair (Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Strike, The Casual Vacancy) and Tommy Bulfin (for the BBC) executive produce based on a script by Tom Edge (You Don’t Know Me, Vigil) who also wrote Strike - The Silkworm, Strike - Career of Evil and Strike - Lethal White. Jenny van der Lande (Too Close, You Don’t Know Me) is story producer and Alex Rendell produces.

ian@mcainshconsulting.com / rachel@devonportpr.com

EastEnders

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

As the residents of Walford get set to celebrate the festivities, there are those who are desperate to reclaim lost soul mates, forge futures with new loves and fight dirty to protect their families.

Danger lies in ahead for Mick Carter as he hurtles towards a wedding to pregnant Janine while fighting his lingering feelings for ex-wife Linda. While Mick is wavering, mum Shirley desperately seeks evidence that proves Janine’s keeping dark secrets. But can she get conclusive proof before Mick says, ‘I do’?

Alfie Moon’s panto provides the perfect backdrop for his elaborate plan to win back Kat. Can Alfie convince her they can have a fairytale ending, even though Kat’s supposed to marry Phil?

The Mitchell hardman has other problems to contend with as he battles to keep Billy from spending life in prison. DCI Keeble is hellbent on revenge, but Phil’s got a plan – one that’s fraught with deadly risks.

Meanwhile, Jay pulls out all the stops to show Lola how much he loves her, and he is determined to make what could be her last Christmas one to remember.

EastEnders is a BBC Studios Production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The Executive Producer is Chris Clenshaw and the BBC Commissioner is Tommy Bulfin.

JA2

Animal Park at Christmas

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

In a special week of programmes, Animal Park is returning to enjoy a magical Christmas at Longleat Safari Park.

The keepers are ensuring their creatures are cosy and prepared for the winter, and Ben Fogle and Kate Humble will be there to enjoy every festive moment and joyous tale.

Across the series, we’ll see lots of heart-warming stories. The keepers are worried Harry the Lion won’t be able to eat his Christmas dinner because he has a problem with his teeth. There are also Christmas romances. Including cheetah Rachel who is ready for love. But the men she’s falling for aren’t showing her much interest - will she get her festive kiss under the mistletoe?

Kate and Ben will be helping the animals across the park celebrate the season. They’ll gift Elf the Bongo his very own Christmas pickle and they’ll bring the parrots a present of 5 gold rings.

Joining them will be wildlife cameraman and star of Strictly Come Dancing, Hamza Yassin who will be focussing his zoom lens on the animals to see them closer than ever in the winter sunlight.

Megan McCubbin will also be back, bringing Christmas treats for the animals and providing insights into animal behaviour in the chillier weather.

Animal Park Christmas Special is a Remarkable TV (5 x 45mins) production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The Executive Producer for Remarkable TV is Joff Wilson and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Lindsay Bradbury.

programmes.desk@bbc.co.uk

Countryfile – Christmas at Rockingham

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

John Craven and Anita Rani are getting into the Christmas spirit at Rockingham Castle. The castle, just outside Corby, is also celebrating its 950th birthday so what was Christmas like way back then and how have celebrations evolved over the years? We also meet the needle experts behind a special commemorative tapestry. Romy Gill and her posse of young countryside cooks create some Christmas treats for John and Anita. Adam Henson takes a look at mistletoe and how it’s destroying our precious orchards while Tom Heap delivers some Christmas cheer to those in need.

Countryfile – Christmas at Rockingham is a BBC Studios (1 x 60min) for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The Executive Producer is Jane Lomas and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Clare Mottershead.

programmes.desk@bbc.co.uk

My Life at Christmas - with Sally Phillips

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

In a special series of films for advent, actress and comedian Sally Phillips meets three well-known faces to explore how their memories of Christmas reflect the enormous changes they have gone through in their lives, careers, family and faith. Revd Richard Coles reflects on his Christmas journey from childhood chorister and Communards fame, to life as a vicar and the death of his beloved life-partner David. Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas talks about her rise to dance success - culminating in a tragic Christmas that turned her life upside down. And poet Lemn Sissay reveals how a childhood in the care system gave him the passion to make Christmas special for hundreds of other care leavers.

Episode 1 – Reverend Richard Coles

Sally takes Revd Richard Coles back to the church pew where he first found his faith to discover how Christmas has brought some of the most joyful, meaningful, and sorrowful moments in his life. From childhood chorister and Communards fame, to life as a vicar and the death of his beloved life-partner David, Richard tells a story filled with frank, funny and festive memories.

Episode 2 – Lemn Sissay

Sally meets Lemn Sissay who spent years in the care system after being taken from his mother as a baby. His is a tale of lost Christmases and rejection, before finding the voice and words that have made him one of the most celebrated poets in the UK today. As Sally discovers, it’s a position that has now helped him bring the true meaning of Christmas to hundreds of other care leavers across the country.

Episode 3 – Shirley Ballas

Sally visits the home of Strictly head judge Shirley Ballas to hear how Christmas has marked her journey from a penniless childhood in the Wirral to huge acclaim across the world as a professional dancer. Shirley shares her story of hard work, passion and loss - with one particularly tragic Christmas at its heart.

My Life at Christmas - with Sally Phillips is a Big Circus Media (3 x 60min) for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Gareth Collett for Big Circus Media and the Executive Producer is Elliot Falk. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Daisy Scalchi.

EDA

Songs of Praise

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Three episodes of Inspiring hymns and songs, together with uplifting stories of faith from around the UK and beyond.

Sunday 18 Dec – Advent Joy – Claire McCollum gets into the Christmas spirit at Hever Castle in Kent, former home of Anne Boleyn and where today local school children add final Christmas decorations to the tree and prepare for the Christingle service where a candle is lit, symbolising the light of Christ.

Sunday 25 Dec – Christmas Carols from Cardiff - Aled Jones presents the Christmas Day edition of Songs of Praise from Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff, packed with favourite carols and seasonal music. Llandaff Cathedral Choir perform In The Bleak Mid-Winter, reigning Songs of Praise Gospel Singer Of The Year Patrice Campbell sings the modern classic Mary, Did You Know and Aled and Russell Watson have the perfect song for Christmas Day- Mistletoe and Wine.

Sunday 1 January – Celebrating New Year’s Day - Sean Fletcher hosts the first Songs of Praise of 2023, which kicks off the New Year with a star-studded programme from Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff. Katherine Jenkins and Brenda Edwards perform a song that’s close to their hearts, You’ll Never Walk Alone. We hear the male Welsh voices of The Morriston Orpheus Choir as they sing World In Union, and there’s a stunning performance of Puccini’s Nessun Dorma from opera star Freddie De Tommaso. Plus, there are favourite hymns for everyone to sing along to.

Songs of Praise is an Afanti Media and Nine Lives Media production (3 episodes x 35min) for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The Executive Producers for Afanti Media and Nine Lives Media are Emyr Afan and Cat Lewis. and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Daisy Scalchi.

programmes.desk@bbc.co.uk

On Christmas Night

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Winding down Christmas Day to a gentle close, Ballroom Dancer and TV panellist Oti Mabuse reads the story of the first Christmas from the Gospel according to St Luke.

Oti lends her own voice to the familiar Bible story of the angels appearing to shepherds with the news of the birth of a baby – born in a stable in Bethlehem. Accompanying Oti’s reading is a special recording of “Love Came Down at Christmas” from Bristol’s Exultate Singers, conducted by their founder, David Ogden.

On Christmas Night is a BBC Studios (1 x 5 mins) for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The Executive Producer for BBC Studios is Chris Loughlin. The producer and director is Garry Boon, and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Daisy Scalchi.

EDA

Dogs In the Wild: Meet The Family

BBC One & BBC iPlayer

Dogs In the Wild: Meet The Family is the first single species series about dogs that has been produced by BBC Studios’ Natural History Unit. Narrated by Chris Packham, this 3 x 60 minute series will feature astonishing cinematography, together with emotional and immersive storytelling around the remarkable members of one 37-strong family of wild dogs.

From the rugged peaks of the Himalayas to the blistering Sahara desert, wild dogs thrive in the least likely of places. They are the most widespread carnivores on the planet. The latest scientific revelations reveal fresh perspectives on characters who constantly surprise us with their diversity and their unusual behaviour. These are the world’s ultimate canids!

Dogs In the Wild: Meet The Family is a BBC Studios Natural History Production (3 x 60 minutes) for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning for Specialist Factual. The Executive Producer is Jo Shinner and the Commissioning Editor for BBC Natural History is Sreya Biswas.

gail.davidson@bbc.co.uk

BBC Two

Carols from King’s Christmas Eve

 

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

The world-renowned choir, directed by Daniel Hyde, sings carols old and new, from Peter Warlock’s setting of the medieval Adam lay ybounden, to more contemporary music from modern female composers such as Errollyn Wallen with “Peace on Earth” and former King’s College student Judith Weir, whose “Illuminare Jerusalem” is based on a medieval manuscript referencing verses from Isaiah. A special item this year is Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “Fantasia on Christmas Carols” which will mark the 150th Anniversary of one of the UK’s favourite composers.

The choir also leads the congregation in popular carols, including O Come All Ye Faithful, It Came Upon a Midnight Clear and Hark! the Herald Angels Sing.

The service will be introduced by the Dean, the Revd Dr Stephen Cherry. The story of the Nativity is told in the words of the King James Bible and reflected on in poetry read by members of the College.

Carols from King's was inspired by A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols which has been broadcast by the BBC Radio for more than 90 years. The television programme gives viewers an opportunity to enjoy the music in the setting of the of the chapel’s unique architecture, containing as it does the largest fan-vaulted stone ceiling in the world and some of the finest examples of medieval stained glass.

Carols From King’s is a BBC Studios (1 x 75mins) for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. The Producer for BBC Studios is James Whitbourn, the director is Ian Russell and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Daisy Scalchi.

Top Of The Pops: Review of 2022

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

Top Of The Pops returns for a Christmas special hosted by Radio 1’s Clara Amfo and Jack Saunders.

The special will take a look back over the last 12 months delving into Pop music’s biggest stories and showcasing performances from some of the hottest artists of 2022.

Top Of The Pops: Review of 2022 is a BBC Studios (1 x 60) production for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Pinki Chambers, Commissioning Editor for Entertainment. The Executive Producer for BBC Studios is Alison Howe.

FM2

Cliff at Christmas

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

In this one-hour special for BBC Two & iPlayer, the multi award winning Sir Cliff Richard chats to Sara Cox at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London about his incredible 64 year career which has seen more than 130 of his singles, albums and EP’s reach the UK top 20. As one of the UK’s most successful solo artists, Sir Cliff also performs some of his Christmas classics, new songs and best loved hits with some special guests at the recently restored St John-at-Hackney Church.

Cliff at Christmas on the BBC (1x60’) has been commissioned by Kate Phillips in her former role as Director of Entertainment. It is a Penny Lane Entertainment production for BBC Two and iPlayer. Executive Producers are Lee Connolly and Sue Andrew for Penny Lane Entertainment. Katie Taylor is the Commissioning Editor for the BBC.

MJ

University Challenge

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

Christmas University Challenge returns this year for its twelfth series. While the nation's students take a winter break, distinguished alumni of fourteen UK universities and university colleges will put fingers on buzzers instead, hoping they’ve retained at least some of what their alma maters once taught them.

In this short seasonal tournament, these fourteen teams will meet in seven heats, with a place in the semi-finals reserved only for the four highest-scoring winners. They’ll face typically tricky questions on everything from astrophysics to zoology, with an added sprinkling of festive fayre, all asked by Jeremy Paxman in his 29th year as presenter. No prize is on offer, merely honour, glory, and a lifetime of bragging rights.

To be eligible to take part, contestants must have graduated from the institutions they’re playing for, and gone on to achieve success in their field – whether that field be academia, business, sport, or entertainment. This year’s line-up includes author Emma Dabiri (SOAS, London), broadcaster Paul Gambaccini (University College, Oxford), YouTuber Tom Scott (York), newsreader Reeta Chakrabarti (Exeter College, Oxford), playwright James Graham (Hull), paracyclist Neil Fachie (Aberdeen), and leader of Plaid Cymru Adam Price (Cardiff).

Christmas University Challenge is a Lifted Entertainment (part of ITV Studios) (10 x 30min) for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Lee McNicholas (Creative Director, Lifted Entertainment North). The Executive Producer is Peter Gwyn and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Pinki Chambers.

programmes.desk@bbc.co.uk

Richard Osman’s Festive House of Games

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

In these special festive editions, eight famous faces go head-to-head testing their general knowledge skills in a variety of fun trivia-based games in Richard Osman’s Festive House of Games. Across two weeks, the celebrity contestants – Clare Balding, Ivo Graham, Ugo Monye, Su Pollard, Brian Conley, Scarlett Moffatt, Anneka Rice and Phil Wang - will take on a series of quiz rounds selected by the host, quiz legend, Richard Osman. A winner will be declared following a quick-fire round at the end of the show and they will be taking home a prize and the House of Games Festive trophy.

Will the winning star opt for the much coveted Festive House of Games suitcase, or will the fondue set prove irresistible? Fun, witty, and full of surprises, Richard’s cross-examination of the celebs over the course of the week provides an entertaining watch for all the family as the level of competitiveness and camaraderie grows. And of course, this warm, feel-good festive quiz is perfect for playing along with at home.

Richard Osman’s Festive House of Games is a Remarkable TV (10 x 30min) production for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. The Executive Producer for Remarkable TV is Tamara Gilder and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Alex McLeod.

programmes.desk@bbc.co.uk

QI

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

Time to Talk Turkey! Sandi and Alan gather round the tree with Gyles Brandreth, Chris McCausland and Aisling Bea to tear into toys, teddy bears, and other festive topics starting with “T” … featuring personal appearances by the President of the Magic Circle AND probably the world’s most popular bear.

QI is a Talkback (a Fremantle Label) & QI Ltd production (1 x 30m or 45m TBC) for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. The Executive Producer is Piers Fletcher and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Sarah Clay.

programmes.desk@bbc.co.uk

Live at the Apollo – Christmas Special

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

The BAFTA nominated Live At The Apollo returns to BBC Two for a highly anticipated seventeenth series with seven brand new episodes. In this special festive edition of the award-winning Live At The Apollo, the fabulous Rosie Jones is your host as she introduces Eshaan Akbar and Cally Beaton to the Stage.

Live At The Apollo is an Open Mic Productions (1 x 30/45mins TBC) production for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. It is directed by Paul Wheeler, the series producer is Anthony Caveney and the Executive Producer is Andrew Beint. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Pinki Chambers.

programmes.desk@bbc.co.uk

Jools’ Annual Hootenanny

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

As has become time-honoured tradition in the UK’s televised celebration of the New Year, Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra take centre stage at Jools’ 30th Annual Hootenanny to welcome 2023 in style. Joined by a starry line-up of artists and special guests from across the ages, they’ll bring the ultimate New Year party to viewers, in the comfort of their own homes. This year’s show will spotlight the most exciting up-and-coming musicians who have been making waves in 2022, as well as artists viewers will know and love.

Jools will also be counting the seconds down to midnight, before the Pipes and Drums of the 1st Battalion Scots Guards play viewers into 2023.

It’s been a landmark year for Jools, with two brand new series of Later…with Jools Holland featuring artists such as Liam Gallagher, Wet Leg, Cat Burns, Poppy Ajudha and Confidence Man in Series 60, and Simple Minds, Arctic Monkeys, Christine and the Queens Presents Redcar, Suede and Hot Chip in Series 61. Jools also celebrated the show’s 30th birthday with a special anniversary episode featuring performances from Robert Plant, First Aid Kit, Michael Kiwanuka, Seasick Steve and Imelda May.

Jools’ Annual Hootenanny (1 x 120 mins) is a BBC Studios production for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Jonathan Rothery, Head of Popular Music TV. The Executive Producer is Alison Howe and the Commissioning Executive for the BBC is Dawn Payne.

sarah.hall1@bbc.co.uk / juliet.martin@bbc.co.uk

Frankie Boyle's 2022 New World Order

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

Frankie Boyle returns with his New World Order end of year special where, with the help of his guests, he’ll dissect the unsettling year that was 2022. The show features Frankie at his satirical best with stand-up, review and discussion – all in an attempt to make sense of the last 12 months. Frankie Boyle’s New World Order is made by Zeppotron, part of Banijay UK.

Frankie Boyle’s 2022 New World Order is a Zeppotron (1 x 45min) for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Ben Caudell, Commissioning Editor for Comedy. The Executive Producers for Zeppotron are Christopher Barbour, Peter Holmes & Ruth Phillips and the Commissioning Editors for the BBC are Ben Caudell and Navi Lamba.

andrew.francis@banijay.com

Inside No. 9

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

Steve Pemberton and Reece Shearsmith return with a special festive film from their award-winning anthology series Inside No. 9. Joined by guest stars Shobna Gulati and Simon Callow, they serve up a disturbingly spooky Christmas story set in a mysterious church.

The Bones of St. Nicholas

Dr. Jasper Parkway has booked an overnight stay in a reputedly haunted church on Christmas Eve. However, much to his dismay, he is soon joined by unwanted guests Pierce and Posy, who have even brought their own sleeping bags. Together with the eccentric warden Dick, it doesn’t look like Jasper is going to be lonely this Christmas. Even though sherry, biscuits and Yuletide phantoms are on offer, why is Jasper so keen to be left to his own devices?

Inside No. 9 is produced by BBC Studios Comedy Productions for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. It was written by Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton, directed by George Kane and produced by Kim Crowther. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Gregor Sharp. The Executive Producers for BBC Studios are Adam Tandy and Josh Cole.

abigail@plankpr.com

Detectorists

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

Detectorists, the multi award winning comedy series about metal detecting enthusiasts Andy (Mackenzie Crook) and Lance (Toby Jones), returns for a feature length special.

The Danebury Metal Detecting Club is in trouble; developers are sniffing around, and after losing out on a big finder’s fee, the club is going to need a miracle to help save their beloved scout hall. So when Lance manages to secure a permission to search ten acres of prime, undetected land, it looks like things could be on the up. But when a mysterious relic is unearthed, Lance breaks protocol, threatening his friendship with Andy and the future of the DMDC.

Written and directed by Mackenzie Crook, Detectorists is a Treasure Trove Productions, Channel X North and Lola TV production (1 x 75) for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Jon Petrie, Director of Comedy Commissioning.

The Producer is Gill Isles and the Executive Producers are Mackenzie Crook and Lisa Thomas for Treasure Trove / Lola TV and Alan Marke and Jim Reid for Channel X North. The Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Emma Lawson.

neil@neilreadingpr.com

Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker!

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

Choreographer and director Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker offers a distinctive contemporary take on the classic Christmas tale.

With family-sized helpings of Bourne’s trademark wit, pathos and magical fantasy, Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! follows Clara’s bittersweet journey from a darkly comic Christmas Eve at Dr. Dross’s Orphanage, through a shimmering, ice-skating winter wonderland to the scrumptious candy kingdom of Sweetieland, influenced by the lavish Hollywood musicals of the 1930s.

Tchaikovsky’s glorious score and Anthony Ward’s newly-refreshed delectable sets and costumes combine with dazzling choreography to create a fresh and charmingly irreverent interpretation of the classic.

Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! is an Illuminations/New Adventures production (1 x 88’) for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Emma Cahusac, Commissioning Editor for BBC Arts. Choreographer and director is Matthew Bourne. Screen director is Ross MacGibbon. Producer is Lucie Conrad.

IP

Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

On 3 May 2022, Cameron Mackintosh invited many of Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends to join him in London’s West End for a thrilling, joyously staged production. He had specially devised it to celebrate Stephen’s extraordinary talents as a Composer and Lyricist and also honour his great legacy in the theatre Cameron had completely rebuilt and renamed in his honour. All profits from the evening went to the recently formed Stephen Sondheim Foundation which supports new writers.

Featuring an all-star cast including, amongst others, Michael Ball, Helena Bonham Carter, Rob Brydon, Petula Clark, Anna-Jane Casey, Rosalie Craig, Janie Dee, Judi Dench, Daniel Evans, Maria Friedman, Haydn Gwynne, Bonnie Langford, Damian Lewis, Julia Mckenzie, Julian Ovenden, Bernadette Peters, Sian Phillips, Jon Robyns, Clive Rowe, Jenna Russell, Imelda Staunton, Charlie Stemp, Gary Wilmot and Michael D. Xavier. Brilliantly staged by Matthew Bourne, Maria Friedman and Stephen Mear and conducted by Alfonso Casado Trigo, the evening sold out immediately, and demand was so great that the evening was simultaneously live screened at the Prince Edward Theatre 200 metres away.

A year on from the legendary composer and lyricist’s death and with a worldwide premiere on BBC Two this Christmas, now viewers will have their first chance to see the never to be forgotten and most talked about theatrical event of the year.

EDA

Charlie Mackesy: The Boy, Mole, Fox, Horse and Me (w/t)

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

Charlie Mackesy’s book The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse has sold eight million copies around the world, and is now a major new animated film. But who is Charlie Mackesy and how did this first-time author create a book that has touched millions? In this moving documentary, Charlie takes us on a journey through his formative years and later-life success. From an idyllic upbringing on a farm in rural England, to the streets of London, we follow Charlie as he traces the events that shaped his artistic imagination and reveals how his best-selling book The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse came to resonate around the world.

This intimate portrait illuminates the creative world of Charlie Mackesy and interweaves the story of the success of the book with the present day, as Charlie directs the animated film version of The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse.

The programme connects the threads between Charlie’s artistic life and formative years, exploring what inspired the wisdoms in the book. With insights and anecdotes from friends Richard Curtis and Bear Grylls, an unexpected story unfolds - of how grief and vulnerability can be turned into a message of strength and compassion that has helped thousands of people.

Charlie Mackesy: The Boy, Mole, Fox, Horse and Me w/t is a Salon Pictures production (1 x 60’) for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Alistair Pegg and Mark Bell for BBC Arts. The Producers for Salon Pictures are Nick Taussig and Sophie Harmer. Director is Clare Sturges.

IP

A Ghost Story for Christmas: Count Magnus

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

A Ghost Story for Christmas: Count Magnus based on M.R James’ short story and adapted and directed for television by Mark Gatiss. Count Magnus is the latest ghost story for Christmas from Mark Gatiss on the BBC, following The Mezzotint in 2021, Martin’s Close in 2019, The Dead Room in 2018, The Tractate Middoth in 2013 and Crooked House in 2008.

Mark Gatiss says: “It’s an absolute thrill to be bringing one of M.R. James’ most beloved tales to life for this year’s ghost story. The Count casts a long shadow and I hope we can all relish being in his thrall this Christmas!”

Set in 1863, Count Magnus tells the tale of the inquisitive Mr. Wraxhall who becomes fascinated by the long-dead founder of a Swedish family, who once made a strange journey to the Holy Land - on most unholy business. Wraxhall is drawn ever deeper into Count Magnus' dark world and discovers that the dreaded aristocrat may not lie easy in his tomb.

Starring Jason Watkins (The Crown, The Lost Honour of Christopher Jefferies) as Mr Wraxhall, alongside MyAnna Buring (The Witcher, The Responder) as Froken de la Gardie, Krister Henriksson (Wallander, The Fall) as the Narrator, Max Bremer (Bordertown) as Nielsen, Allan Corduner (Topsy-Turvy, Homeland) as the Deacon, and Jamal Ajala (The Witcher) as Gustav.

A Ghost Story for Christmas: Count Magnus is a Can Do and Adorable Media production (1 x 30’) for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Mark Bell, Commissioning Editor for BBC Arts. Adapted and directed by Mark Gatiss. Producer is Isibéal Balla

anna.mason.ext@bbc.co.uk

Coppélia

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

A new adaptation of Coppélia this winter combines enchanting animation and live action dance in a modern take on the much-loved ballet.

With a world-class cast including Michaela DePrince, Daniel Camargo, Vito Mazzeo, Dame Darcey Bussell and Irek Mukhamedov, this new adaptation sees Dr. Coppelius (Mazzeo) as a cosmetic surgeon, whose lure of superficial beauty poisons the town. Swan (DePrince) must uncover the truth about the popular newcomer who puts her community and the life of her beloved Franz (Daniel Camargo) in danger. Choreographed by Ted Brandsen and featuring an original score composed by Maurizio Malagnini, performed by the BBC Concert Orchestra.

Coppélia, a 1x80’, is a film by Jeff Tudor, Steven De Beul & Ben Tesseur. It is produced by Bruno Felix, Femke Wolting and Janneke van de Kerkhof for Submarine and Adrienne Liron for 3 Minutes West. The Commissioning Editor for BBC Arts is Emma Cahusac.

IP

Marie Antoinette

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

 

Created and written by Deborah Davis (The Favourite), Marie Antoinette tells the story of the incredibly modern and avant-garde young queen who was barely 14 years old when she left Austria to marry the Dauphin of France.

Free, independent and feminist ahead of her time, the fearless queen will be played by Emilia Schüle (Ku’damm 56/ 63). Joining Deborah Davis in writing the ambitious drama is Louise Ironside (The Split), Avril E. Russell (All on a Summer’s Day) and Chloë Moss (Run Sister Run). The series is directed by Pete Travis (Bloodlands) and Geoffrey Enthoven (Children of Love).

Produced by Banijay Studios France, CAPA Drama and Les Gens, Marie Antoinette marks the first international deal for this CANAL+ Creation Originale. It is produced by Claude Chelli and Margaux Balsan for Capa Drama, Alban Étienne and Stéphanie Chartreux for Banijay Studios France, and Christophe Toulemonde for Les Gens. Filming has commenced in many prestigious historical places including the Châteaux of Versailles, Vaux-le-Vicomte, Lésigny, Champs, Voisins, and in the emblematic studios of Bry-sur-Marne.

GK

Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Christmas Fishing

 

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

This Christmas BBC Two has the perfect festive treat for Gone Fishing fans. For the first time in Gone Fishing’s history, the angling duo leave the riverbanks of Britain behind and Paul takes Bob on a dream fishing trip to Norway – the country were Cod is God and a place that truly embodies the traditional spirit of Christmas.

They travel to The Lofoten Islands which are in the arctic circle, 1,000 miles north of Oslo and are made up of majestic mountains, deep fjords, long, surf-swept beaches – the scenery is breath-taking and the historic fishing villages, and the seas around it are teeming with fish.

Neither Paul or Bob have visited Norway before and it’s an angler’s paradise. Paul is like a kid at Christmas, excited at the possibilities of catching species of fish he’s never fished before.

They are on a mission to find a variety of species including: cod (otherwise known as a ‘Norwegian White Gold’ such has been its significance to building the wealth of the nation); halibut, pollock, ling, trout, char and the ultimate prize – an attempt to catch the hard-fighting coalfish, nicknamed cold water cheetahs in the tough waters of the legendary maelstrom.

Along the way Bob surprises Paul with some unique accommodation in the most remote locations they’ve ever experienced – complete with all the trappings you’d expect of a Christmas trip. Bob searches out the most interesting culinary delights from Christmas porridge to traditional Christmas cookies and they meet with locals as well as a very special guest from their past.

Sadly, trusty terrier Ted is unable to join the pair on their festive adventure to Norway but Paul makes sure he is certainly there in spirit …

On this trip they make memories to last a lifetime, both on and off the water and viewers will be left reeling by their adventures.

Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Christmas Fishing, a 1x60’ for BBC Two and iPlayer, is made by Owl Power. It was commissioned by Catherine Catton, Head of Commissioning, Factual Entertainment and Events. The Executive Producer is Lisa Clark and the Commissioning Editor is Max Gogarty.

TD

Snow Dogs: Into the Wild

 

BBC Two & BBC iPlayer

In this new documentary wildlife film-maker Gordon Buchanan gets close to seven incredible huskies on a treacherous dogsled adventure through Canada’s spectacular Yukon wilderness.

Inspired by Jack London’s novel, The Call of the Wild (1903) it’s been Gordon’s childhood dream to command a team of dogs out in the Yukon wilderness following in the footsteps of the Scottish Klondike gold rush explorers who used these trails over 100 years ago.

Gordon meets his seven sled dog team: Hero; Epic; Vicky; Lucky; Exy; Wookie; and charismatic pack leader Yukon. A complete novice, Gordon must earn the respect of the dogs if he’s to survive blizzard conditions and learn to dodge tree branches and hazardous trail boulders. Will he manage to win the trust of these magnificent dogs and take on one of the toughest challenges of his life: the treacherous Burn Run?

Snow Dogs: Into the Wild is a Hello Halo Productions and Oak Island Films (1x60) for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. It was commissioned by Jack Bootle, Head of Specialist Factual. The Executive Producer for Hello Halo Productions is Wendy Rattray and for Oak Island Films is Ted Oakes and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Sreya Biswas and for BBC Scotland David Harron.

HM

BBC Three

Bad Education: Reunion

BBC Three & BBC iPlayer

Bad Education is back! Fast-paced, irreverent, and starring not only an all-new class K, but also former classmates, world class diva Stephen (Layton Williams) and soon-to-be-family-man-with-responsibilities Mitchell (Charlie Wernham) finding themselves at the other side of the desk as newly qualified - or not - teachers.

The Christmas special episode of Bad Education will reunite useless teacher and big kid Alfie Wickers (Jack Whitehall) with his old students one last time as they return to Abbey Grove for a joyfully chaotic careers day.

Amidst the mayhem, Stephen’s quest for musical theatre stardom hasn’t gone quite as planned and Alfie has a decision to make – will he finally leave the school forever to be with Gulliver.

Bad Education: Reunion (1x45) is co-written and co-executive produced by Freddy Syborn and Jack Whitehall and was commissioned by Jon Petrie, Director of Comedy Commissioning at the BBC. Freddy Syborn will direct and the Commissioning Editor for the BBC is Tanya Qureshi. Banijay Rights will distribute the series internationally.

stewart.wallis@multitudemedia.co.uk

BBC Four

Mark Gatiss in A Christmas Carol

 

BBC Four & BBC iPlayer

Mark Gatiss (Sherlock, Dracula, Doctor Who) stars as Jacob Marley in this stage production of A Christmas Carol - his own retelling of Dickens’ classic winter ghost story, A Christmas Carol - alongside Nicholas Farrell (Chariots of Fire, The Crown, The Iron Lady) as Scrooge. Directed for the stage by Adam Penford, this powerful tale of life, love, loss and redemption is as relevant today as when it was first published 179 years ago.

It’s a cold Christmas Eve and mean-spirited miser Ebenezer Scrooge (Nicholas Farrell) has an unexpected visit from the spirit of his former business partner Jacob Marley (Mark Gatiss). Bound in chains as punishment for a lifetime of greed, the unearthly figure explains it isn’t too late for Scrooge to change his miserly ways in order to escape the same fate, but first he’ll have to face three more eerie encounters.

A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story is a Nottingham Playhouse production presented by Eleanor Lloyd Productions, Fiery Angel, Trafalgar Releasing, Eilene Davidson Productions and Gavin Kalin Productions (1 x 106’) for BBC Four and BBC iPlayer. Adapted by Mark Gatiss. The Director is Adam Penford. The Commissioning Editor for BBC Arts is Emma Cahusac.

IP

The Royal Institution Christmas Lectures 2022

BBC Four & BBC iPlayer

One of the world’s leading forensic investigators, Professor Dame Sue Black, will deliver this year’s Christmas Lectures from the Royal Institution.

In a series of three Lectures to be broadcast on BBC Four in late December, Dame Sue will share the secrets of the real-life scientific detective process she uses to identify both the dead and the living.

With the public more fascinated by science and forensics than ever, Sue will reveal why we shouldn’t believe everything we see in our favourite TV crime dramas. Using stand-out cases from her remarkable career, she’ll explore the huge leaps forward forensic science has made, as well as some of its limitations, and what the future might hold. And she’ll reveal how real life can be far stranger than fiction.

Dame Sue has played a lead role in some of the world’s highest profile forensic investigations, helping to identify the victims and perpetrators of conflicts and disasters internationally, including the conflict in Kosovo where she was the lead forensic anthropologist to the British Forensic Team, and the Thai Tsunami Victim Identification Operation. Sue is currently President of St John’s College Oxford.

The Christmas Lectures, a 3x60’ for BBC Four and iPlayer, are co-produced by the Ri and Windfall Films. They were commissioned by Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning, Specialist Factual. The Series Producer is Tom Ranson, the Executive Producer is David Dugan and the Commissioning Editor is Tom Coveney.

TD

CBBC

Malory Towers Christmas Special

CBBC & BBC iPlayer

Hit family drama, Malory Towers, returns to CBBC for a topping Christmas special!

Darrell and friends head off on their Christmas hols. But Darrell’s festive season doesn’t go to plan when she is forced to stay at the school! With Matron and Miss Grayling stranded out in a storm, Darrell is left alone…But it appears she isn’t as alone as she first thought when strange things start happening around the school…

This sparkling Christmas special, written by lead writers Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails features all your favourite Malory Towers characters in a spooky seasonal setting; full of surprises and singing, it shows how the love of friends and family can triumph!

Malory Towers (2 x 25) is made by King Bert Productions and WildBrain. The special is directed by Bruce McDonald and produced by David Collier. The Executive Producer is Jo Sargent. Executive Producers for the BBC are Amy Buscombe and Alison Davis.

One Zoo Three Christmas Special

CBBC & BBC iPlayer

It’s a winter wonderland at the One Zoo Three zoo as the three brothers, Aaron, Tyler and Cam, get the zoo ready for the big festive day.

Cam helps prepare the essential Christmas reindeer, Pluto, Aurora and Sky, to deliver some tasty festive treats to the wallabies and emus before they move on to take some delicious Xmas treats to the rare Amur tigers, Sibera and Aleena! Aaron, Tyler and Cam then rope in some of the other animals for their ultimate Brussel sprout challenge! Will the tapirs, Tim and Tam, win the veggie race or are Tilly and Nam Pang, the red pandas, in with a shout of tasting success? Meanwhile, Albert and Akiki, the African penguins, are incubating an egg – and looking forward to welcoming a festive fluffy chick!

The One Zoo Three Christmas special is made by True to Nature Ltd and was commissioned by BBC Children’s Head of Commissioning and Acquisitions 7+, Sarah Muller. The Executive Producer from True to Nature is Wendy Darke and Series Producer Stuart Derrick.

Dodger Christmas Special

CBBC & BBC iPlayer

CBBC’s hit family show Dodger is back for an action-packed Christmas Special! Set at Christmas Eve, the gang return under the watchful eye of Fagin (Christopher Eccleston).

This Christmas Dodger (Billy Jenkins) attempts his most daring mission ever – he’s going to break into Number 10 Downing Street, home of the Prime Minister William Lamb (Robert Lindsay) and Countess Cowper (Jane Horrocks). With police stationed at every turn and a very special Christmas party going on inside, it’s not going to be easy. But the ever-intrepid Dodger has given his word to the kind toymaker (Anita Dobson) that he’ll retrieve her precious doll, which is nestled under the Prime Minister’s Christmas tree!

Meanwhile, Polly (Ellie-May Sheridan) has a plan to put a goose on the gang’s Christmas table. It’s all going well until Bullseye shows up. A goose herder he ain’t…

Dodger is produced by Universal International Studios, a division of Universal Studio Group. It is written by Rhys Thomas, who also directs, and Lucy Montgomery. Mark Freeland is Executive Producer for Universal International Studios and Amy Buscombe is Executive Producer for the BBC. It was commissioned for CBBC by Sarah Muller.

CBeebies

CBeebies Bedtime Story

CBeebies and BBC iPlayer

Acclaimed actor Richard E. Grant treats young viewers to an enchanting winter tale at Christmas time as he reads The Snowflake by Benji Davies.

The Snowflake tells the tale of one snowflake and one little girl, both longing for something and looking for their own special place in the world.

There will also be a sprinkling of other festive readers in the lead up to Christmas including a story from Justin Fletcher on Christmas Eve, reading The Night Before Christmas.

Marvel's Spidey and his Amazing Friends – A Very Spidey Christmas

CBeebies and BBC iPlayer

It’s Christmas time and Doc Ock plans to steal everyone’s presents! It’s up to Spidey, Ghost-Spider, Miles and TRACE-E to save the day and rescue Christmas. Will they make it in time? And will Doc Ock learn a little something about the true meaning of Christmas?

Marvel's Spidey and his Amazing Friends for CBeebies is produced by Disney Junior and Marvel Studios in association with Atomic Cartoons and distributed by Disney. The series was acquired by Kate Morton, Head of Commissions and Acquisitions 0-6, BBC Children’s. The series is Executive Produced by Harrison Wilcox and Steve Grover is Supervising Producer.

Bluey

CBeebies and BBC iPlayer

Bluey gets a new teddy for Christmas and introduces him to the whole family. But the family play too rough with him and now he wants to go home. Until Frisky convinces him to stay.

Bluey for CBeebies is made by Ludo Studio for ABC KIDS and is co-commissioned by ABC Children’s and BBC Studios. The series was acquired by Kate Morton, Head of Commissions and Acquisitions 0-6, BBC Children’s. The Executive Producers are Charlie Aspinwall and Daley Pearson, Henrietta Hurford-Jones for BBC Studios and Libbie Doherty for ABC.

Supertato Christmas Special

CBeebies and BBC iPlayer

Supertato is a brand new animated series based on the popular books by Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet. Filled with heroic action and slapstick comedy, Supertato follows the adventures of the eponymous hero and his team of veggie friends as they work together to save the supermarket from the dastardly plans of Evil Pea.

In this special wintery episode, Evil Pea covers the Veggie Aisle in huge snow drifts, thinking the Veggies won’t like it. Pea is outraged when the Veggies start to enjoy playing in the snow, and so makes a giant snowball to spoil all the fun. It’s up to Supertato to save Snow Day in the supermarket!

Supertato is made by BBC Studios Kids & Family and Tencent Video Productions. Commissioned for the BBC by Cheryl Taylor. Executive Producers for BBC Studios Kids & Family are Henrietta Hurford-Jones, Elizabeth Randall and Tony Reed. Executive Producers for Tencent Video are Selina She and Qing Fan.

Nick Cope’s Popcast

CBeebies and BBC iPlayer

Nick Cope’s Popcast is a mixed-media series featuring singer-songwriter Nick Cope who, together with his trusty whipper Norman, travels around in his magic caravan, seeking inspiration for his next Popcast song. Nick receives help along the way from a team of children or ‘Popcasters’ who help him put together a Popcast song and video as the climax of each episode.

In this special festive episode, Norman the whippet gives Nick a very special Christmas present, something that dreams are made of. But not all is as It seems – or is it? The result is a Christmas earworm that features a host of Popcast friends, old and new.

Nick Cope’s Popcast is made by Terrific Television and Complete Control. Commissioned for the BBC by Cheryl Taylor. Executive Producers are Driana Jones and Nic Ayling.

Something Special

CBeebies and BBC iPlayer

Mr Tumble, Justin Fletcher and their friends are back with a very special Christmas episode to kick off the thirteenth series of Something Special.

In this festive spectacular, Justin visits a children’s hospital, surprising the patients by transforming an area of the hospital into a winter wonderland. Together they have a Christmas party to remember and they’re joined by a very special guest in the form of Spotty the horse. Meanwhile the Tumbles are having a fancy dress Christmas party, and they’ve all gone to town on their costumes. There’s singing, dancing and an extra special song featuring children from across the entire series.

Something Special continues to normalise and celebrate disability, communication and learning difficulties, using Makaton sign language.

Something Special is produced by BBC Studios Kids & Family. Executive Producer is Vanessa Amberleigh. Commissioned for CBeebies by Kate Morton, Head of Commissioning and Acquisitions 0-6

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