Brace Yourselves: This Year's Christmas TV Lineup Might Just Be the Most Divisive Yet!
As the festive season kicks into high gear, with Mariah Carey’s melodies filling the air and mince pies vanishing faster than you can say 'ho ho ho,' families are gathering around the most coveted item in the house: the Christmas TV guide. But here’s where it gets controversial—this year’s lineup isn’t quite the slam dunk 2024 was, when Gavin & Stacey and Wallace & Gromit dominated the schedule. Yet, fear not! There’s still plenty to get excited about, from festive makeovers of beloved shows to major streaming releases. And this is the part most people miss: while some might grumble about the lack of blockbuster hits, others will argue that this year’s diversity in programming is a breath of fresh air. So, let’s dive into the highlights that’ll keep you entertained until The Traitors returns on January 1st, when 'O Come All Ye Faithful' takes on a whole new meaning.
Two Doors Down: A Heartwarming Return
The delightful comedy about a quirky neighborhood is back with a Christmas special, marking a hopeful return to a full series after its 2023 hiatus following co-creator Simon Carlyle’s passing. In this episode, Michelle and Alan prepare for parenthood, while Beth and Eric accidentally kick off Christmas celebrations in November. Catch it on BBC One and iPlayer at 22:00.
Finding Father Christmas: A Festive Quest
In this heartwarming new film, 16-year-old Chris (Lenny Rush) embarks on a mission to prove Santa’s existence to his skeptical dad (James Buckley). With a star-studded cast including Stephen Fry and Maggie Aderin-Pocock, it’s a feel-good adventure for the whole family. Airs on Channel 4 at 19:30.
Royal Carols: Together at Christmas
The Princess of Wales hosts her fifth annual carol service at Westminster Abbey, celebrating community heroes. Expect beloved carols and readings from stars like Katie Melua and Chiwetel Ejiofor. Tune in on ITV at 19:25.
Goodbye June: A Festive Family Drama
Kate Winslet steps behind the camera to direct this poignant film, written by her son Joe Anders. Siblings unite for their mother (Dame Helen Mirren), who’s receiving palliative care at Christmas. Streaming on Netflix from 00:01.
Amandaland: A Festive Family Reunion
The Motherland spin-off returns with a Christmas twist, as Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley reunite. Aunt Joan hosts Christmas, but family tensions threaten to derail the festivities. On BBC One at 21:15.
Strictly Come Dancing: A Bittersweet Farewell
This year’s festive special is a must-watch, not just for All Saints’ Melanie Blatt’s appearance, but also for Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s emotional send-off. Catch it on BBC One and iPlayer at 17:30.
Animated Delights for All Ages
From The Scarecrows' Wedding (voiced by Rob Brydon and Jessie Buckley) to Shaun the Sheep: Fleece Navidad, there’s no shortage of animated treats. Don’t miss repeats of The Tiger Who Came to Tea and The Snowman on Channel 4.
The Great Christmas Bake Off: A Peep Show Takeover
Olivia Colman and David Mitchell lead a Peep Show cast in a festive baking showdown, complete with hangable biscuit decorations and cake recreations of iconic show moments. On Channel 4 at 20:00.
Stranger Things: The Mystery Deepens
Hawkins is under military lockdown, and Eleven’s on the run as Vecna’s plans remain shrouded in mystery. UK fans, mark your calendars for Boxing Day. Streaming on Netflix from 01:00.
The Repair Shop at Christmas: Restoring Memories
Dame Helen Mirren and Julia Donaldson bring cherished items to the barn, from a broken cello to a battered toy farmhouse. On BBC One at 19:30.
The End of an Era: Reliving Taylor Swift’s Tour
Disney+’s docuseries offers an intimate look at Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras tour, with insights from friends and family. Final episodes drop from 00:01.
Festive Favorites and More
From The Chase and Call the Midwife to Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Christmas Fishing, there’s something for everyone. And don’t miss The Celebrity Apprentice, where stars bake and market gingerbread biscuits. Airs on BBC One at 21:00 on December 29-30.
But here’s the real question: Is this year’s lineup a refreshing change or a step down from previous years? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears!
