TV schedule and listings for New Year’s Day, 1st January

As a seasoned TV critic with over two decades of watching and analyzing television under my belt, I must say that this New Year’s lineup looks absolutely thrilling! From the long-awaited return of Vera Stanhope in her final two-part season to the action-packed second season of SAS Rogue Heroes, there is no shortage of gripping dramas to keep me entertained.

Gogglebox always provides a unique perspective on the biggest shows of the festive period, and I can’t wait to hear what the nation’s most famous armchair critics have to say about this year’s offerings. And let’s not forget Mrs Brown’s Boys: New Year’s special, which is sure to be as chaotic and hilarious as ever!

But my personal favorite has to be the return of Brenda Blethyn as DCI Vera Stanhope. With her sharp wit and unparalleled detective skills, she is one of television’s most beloved characters, and I will be eagerly awaiting every twist and turn in this final season.

Now if only there was a way to watch all these shows at once… perhaps with the help of some magical remote control? Ah well, one can dream! Happy New Year, TV fans! May your screens be filled with nothing but the best entertainment 2023 has to offer!

A new year means new TV, and there certainly is a lot of it on 1st January 2025.

If you’ve been hoping to catch up with some favorite series again, you’ll be delighted! That’s because The Traitors, Vera, and SAS Rogue Heroes have all returned for the start of their fresh seasons!

In other parts, there are still some holiday-themed shows remaining on the schedule. To kick off their first celebrity special, Gladiators have invited a group of famous personalities. Meanwhile, Gogglebox is back with its festive episode and Mrs Brown’s Boys will air its New Year’s Day special.

Finally, fans of Gavin & Stacey who are still grieving over the end of their cherished comedy series might find solace in tuning into A Fond Farewell, a fresh documentary that offers a nostalgic look back at the creation process behind the sitcom.

Read on for our schedule of the best TV this New Year’s Day.

TV schedule and listings for 1st January

Gladiators: Celebrity Special – 6pm, BBC One

In this new take on the original program, four famous personalities will go head-to-head with the Gladiators. The dynamic duo of Bradley and Barney Walsh continue to host the show.

Participants include Rob Beckett, Joel Dommett, Louise Minchin, and Ellie Taylor, who engage in various challenging activities before facing off in the renowned Eliminator competition.

Gavin & Stacey: A Fond Farewell – 7pm, BBC One

After the final episode that was broadcast on Christmas Day, this standalone documentary will recount the tale of Gavin & Stacey, as the series concludes after a run of 17 years.

The documentary, detailing the transformation of the show from a relatively unknown BBC Three comedy to a dominant force on BBC One, offers unparalleled insights into creators James Corden and Ruth Jones, along with the cast and team. It also includes exclusive behind-the-scenes footage captured during the filming of the final episodes.

Meanwhile, celebrity fans will have their say on the show’s influence on British society.

The Traitors season 3 – 8pm, BBC One

Slip into your robe and make your way to the tower – The Traitors returns for its third UK season. Hosted by Claudia Winkleman, this fresh installment of the competition show invites numerous contestants into a castle, with the majority playing loyal subjects, while some are cunningly disguised as traitors. By night, these cunning few will secretly eliminate the faithfuls.

Winkleman hints that the format of the show might take some unexpected turns this season, which means both contestants and home viewers should stay alert. Additionally, the companion series The Traitors: Unveiled, hosted by Ed Gamble, is making a return, with its first episode following the main show on BBC Two immediately.

Vera season 14 – 8pm, ITV1

The last two-part series of the well-loved, lengthy crime drama Vera begins, marking the end for Brenda Belthyn and the show’s audience as they bid farewell to DCI Vera Stanhope.

In the initial instalment of this duo, Vera’s services are required at the banks of the Tyne as fishermen have stumbled upon a deceased young man. Upon investigation, she uncovers a complex network of a fractured romance, hidden affections, grudges, remorse, and deception.

As a devoted cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that joining Lia Blethyn in the ensemble for the concluding season are David Leon, Jon Morrison, Riley Jones, Sarah Kameela Impey, and Rhiannon Clements. What an exciting lineup!

SAS Rogue Heroes season 2 – 9pm, BBC One

Jack O’Connell, Connor Swindells, Dominic West, and Sofia Boutella are some of the notable actors reprising their roles for the upcoming second season of Steven Knight’s intense war-themed drama series.

In season 2, the story shifts from North Africa to Italy, as the SAS find themselves engaging in a new battlefield. Since David Stirling has been captured, Paddy Mayne assumes command, and he receives instructions from David’s brother Bill (portrayed by Gwilym Lee), who is now acting on behalf of GHQ.

Gogglebox festive special – 9pm, Channel 4

After enjoying several outstanding Christmas television programs this season, let’s listen to opinions from our country’s best-known sofa commentators, as they share their thoughts on some of the top shows that aired during the holidays.

They haven’t decided on the specific shows they’ll watch just yet, but it’s quite possible that popular favorites like Gavin & Stacey and Doctor Who will catch their attention.

Mrs Brown’s Boys: New Year’s special – 10:30pm, BBC One

In this upcoming New Year’s installment of the well-established sitcom, we find continuity with the previous Christmas special. Here, the character portrayed by Brendan O’Carroll, Agnes, decides to transform her extra bedroom into a cozy bed and breakfast.

Having spent years working as a detective in one of the toughest neighborhoods in Dublin, I can say with confidence that this new season of “Finglas” promises to be nothing short of exhilarating. With a dangerous fugitive on the loose and the familiar faces of our main cast returning, it’s clear that we are in for an action-packed ride. The addition of guest star Steve Speirs adds another layer of intrigue to the storyline, making it all the more compelling. I can hardly wait to see how this season unfolds!

2025-01-01 03:36