TV schedule and listings for Christmas Day, 25th December

As someone who has been captivated by the magic of television since I was a child growing up in the heart of London, I must say that this year’s Christmas TV schedule is nothing short of extraordinary! From the return of beloved classics like Gavin & Stacey and Call the Midwife, to the debut of new series such as From Roger Moore with Love, there truly is something for everyone.

This is the season of greatest celebration, and although Christmas Day might revolve around chocolates, turkey, and roasted potatoes, it’s also perfect for unwinding, relaxing, and cozying up to some excellent television shows.

No matter if you’ve returned home after a holiday stroll or are seeking entertainment options for your afternoon, we’ve compiled a list of shows perfect for your Christmas viewing!

On occasions like today, you’ll find me immersed in a cornucopia of special episodes from favorites such as Strictly Come Dancing, Call the Midwife, and The Great British Bake Off. However, this particular day holds an extra-special treat for Gavin & Stacey enthusiasts – we’ve been eagerly waiting for the long-anticipated final episode, which promises to wrap up our Christmas evening delightfully.

Additionally, you can expect the typical emotional turmoil that comes with holiday-themed episodes from popular soap operas like Emmerdale, Coronation Street, and EastEnders. These shows are known for concluding some of the year’s most suspenseful plotlines.

If you’re looking for some enjoyable family-friendly entertainment, the highly-acclaimed Tiddler could be a fantastic choice for your afternoon viewing. Notably, the renowned writer Steven Moffat, who was previously the showrunner of Doctor Who, is back to script the upcoming Christmas special titled Joy to the World. Additionally, eagerly awaited by fans is Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl, which marks the long-awaited return of this film series since A Matter of Loaf and Death was released on December 25th, 2008.

It’s safe to say that there’s plenty to get stuck into on Christmas Day so scroll on to find our very best picks of what to tune into on 25th December 2024.

The Great Christmas Bake Off – 1:30pm, Channel 4

As people prepare to watch their favorite soap operas, The Great British Bake Off is gearing up for a holiday-themed spin and inviting several well-known actors from the soap world inside the tent.

Dean Gaffney, Natalie Cassidy, Shobna Gulati, Sheree Murphy, and Chris Bisson will all participate in a competition where they’ll attempt baking and compete against each other in various holiday-themed tasks to determine who has the skills necessary to win the esteemed title of Best Baker at the end.

Tiddler – 2:35pm, BBC One

This fresh Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler animated series is an ideal choice for everyone, based on their well-received picture book of the same title. The 30-minute special follows the tale of “a small fish with a vast imagination who becomes lost in the vast ocean until he’s rescued by his own storytelling abilities.

Hannah Waddingham, known from Ted Lasso, is the narrator, joined by an ensemble of other well-known actors. Lolly Adefope (from Ghosts) takes on Miss Skate, Jayde Adams (Ruby Speaking) plays Plaice, and there are more characters to come. In addition to his appearance in the final episode of Gavin & Stacey tonight, Rob Brydon is also slated to reprise his role for the 12th time in a Donaldson and Scheffler adaptation of Tiddler, lending his voice to several characters including Fisherman, Whale, Starfish, and Anchovy.

Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special – 3:55pm, BBC One

After wrapping up Strictly Come Dancing not too long ago, the popular dance competition series is gearing up for another season filled with holiday joy, as a fresh group of celebrities will be gracing the dance floor once more.

In this single thrilling episode, the competitors will perform their dance routines in hopes of winning the Glitterball Trophy by the end of the show. This season promises an exciting lineup including comedian Josh Widdicombe, soap opera star Tazmin Outhwaite, television presenter Vogue Williams, drag artist Tayce, Gladiators alum Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, and Formula 3 racer Billy Monger, each partnered with a professional dancer, making for an enjoyable, dance-filled afternoon spectacle.

Doctor Who: Joy to the World – 5:10pm, BBC One

In the latest installment of the popular sci-fi show, Ncuti Gatwa reappears as the Fifteenth Doctor. Joining him this time is actress Nicola Coughlan from Bridgerton, playing a character named Joy. Their journey promises excitement as they explore a hotel chain that has acquired time travel technology. In addition, an old adversary of the Doctor’s is set to reemerge in this thrilling escapade.

In this episode, when Joy uncovers a hidden entrance leading to the Time Hotel, she encounters peril, dinosaurs, and the Doctor. However, an ominous scheme is brewing worldwide, perfectly timed for Christmas.

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl – 6:10pm, BBC One

It’s surprising that it’s been over a decade since the last Wallace & Gromit film, but fans of these delightful stop-motion movies will be thrilled to know they’re back on our screens. In this new installment, Wallace and Gromit may be embarking upon their riskiest escapade ever, as they prepare to encounter their relentless adversary Feathers McGraw again.

The full-length movie is an ideal choice for evening viewing, serving as a comeback of sorts for Ben Whitehead, who lends his voice to the character Wallace, the famous inventor. Notably, Peter Sallis, the original actor for this role, passed away in 2017. Other notable actors appearing in this new movie include Peter Kay reprising his role as Chief Inspector Macintosh, and guest appearances by Diane Morgan (from Motherland), Adjoa Andoh (Bridgerton), Muzz Khan (Brassic), and Lenny Henry (Three Little Birds).

Emmerdale – 6:30pm, ITV1

Let’s head off to the Dales this Christmas season, as tradition dictates. After a tumultuous year filled with ups and downs, it remains to be seen what the new adventures might hold for our beloved folks of Yorkshire.

It’s clear that Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper) is looking forward to brighter days, but it seems that things are not as rosy for Marlon Dingle (Mark Charnock). His relationship with April Windsor (Amelia Flanagan) has hit rock bottom. A glimpse into the future suggests Marlon may face difficulties, which has sparked speculation about what actions might have led to this potential struggle.

Coronation Street – 7pm, ITV1

All eyes will be on Corrie this year for the sad departure of Gail Rodwell (Helen Worth), who leaves the cobbles after 50 years on the soap. With the Platt matriarch set to leave, it’s set to be quite the emotional time for the family as they reckon with Gail’s exit but also, her wedding to Jesse (John Thomson).

The underlying tension is about to become evident, and it’s uncertain if all guests will attend their winter fairy tale wedding. However, this is just a taste of the upcoming turmoil.

Additionally, we have the continuing romantic entanglement between Nick Tilsley (Ben Price) and his sister-in-law Toyah Habeeb (Georgia Taylor), Leanne Battersby’s (Jane Danson) pursuit of vengeance, Daniel Osbourne’s (Rob Mallard) unexpected proposal to Bethany Platt (Luckey Fallon), and the thwarted Christmas plans shared by Carla Connor (Alison King) and Lisa Swain (Vicky Myers).

EastEnders – 7:30pm and 10:35pm, BBC One

During the holiday season, it’s a given that the most dedicated EastEnders viewers, young and old, eagerly gather around their televisions to catch a glimpse of the captivating plotlines that Walford has prepared for us.

In the upcoming storyline, the focus will shift towards the secret affair between Junior Knight (Micah Balfour) and Cindy Beale (Michelle Collins), which is expected to be exposed through a recording. Doesn’t this sound reminiscent of Max Branning (Jake Wood) and Stacey Slater’s (Lacey Turner) affair being disclosed on a DVD during the 2007 Christmas special?

The upcoming double episode will primarily revolve around the main conflict, but it will also delve into the struggles of Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), who’s been battling with his mental health. Additionally, there might be a scene where Denise Fox (Diane Parish) finds herself facing temptation regarding Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara).

Call the Midwife – 8pm, BBC One

For your convenience, This Christmas special is just the first part; the second one will air tomorrow on Boxing Day. It seems that there will be many of the classic heartfelt scenes that make this series so popular, but wouldn’t it feel like we’re back at Nonnatus House without some intense plotlines?

During the holiday season, the neighborhood will be shaken by the revelation of an escaped convict who might be responsible for the recent string of burglaries in the area. In addition to this, there are outbreaks of both influenza and Hong Kong flu. However, amidst these troubling times, there’ll also be brief appearances of Trixie (played by Helen George), a fairground, and a mince pie contest.

Gavin & Stacey: The Finale – 9pm, BBC One

We’ve all been eagerly anticipating it, but now it’s here: the long-awaited final episode of Gavin & Stacey is gracing our screens once again in a highly anticipated festive special. There were whispers about the show’s return earlier this year, which the cast initially dismissed, but now it has been confirmed that this will be the last hurrah for the cherished BBC comedy.

How has life been for Gavin (Mathew Horne) and Stacey (Joanna Page)? What transpired regarding Nessa (Ruth Jones) and Smithy (James Corden) after the last episode’s suspenseful cliffhanger? Will any secrets from the fishing trip be unveiled? These are all questions that have been left hanging, as we eagerly await this final installment, promising a satisfying conclusion for fans as we reunite with our beloved characters once more.

From Roger Moore with Love – 9pm, BBC Two

Over the holiday season, numerous individuals find themselves immersed in the extensive James Bond series. In honor of the late Roger Moore, the BBC is set to debut a unique documentary that delves into Moore’s iconic portrayal of Bond and the remarkable peak of his career afterward.

This documentary offers exclusive home movie clips and conversations with stars like Pierce Brosnan, Joan Collins, and Jane Seymour, making it a must-see for James Bond enthusiasts everywhere.

2024-12-25 13:04