Daisy May and Charlie Cooper Return with NightWatch

By Jon Donnis

The trailer is out for NightWatch, the new BBC Two series that sees siblings Daisy May and Charlie Cooper back in action, blending their award-winning comedy with a hint of the supernatural. Known for creating and starring in This Country, the Cooper duo now take on a different kind of challenge, exploring some of the UK's most notorious and reportedly haunted buildings.

Across six episodes, Daisy May and Charlie spend nights locked inside these eerie locations, hunting for hidden secrets and, perhaps, a ghost or two. Their fascination with the paranormal stretches back to childhood, sparked by the creepy films they were allowed to watch. NightWatch gives them the perfect excuse to follow that passion and see if anything unexplained really lurks in the dark.

The first episode sees them at a former prison in Gloucester, near their Cirencester roots. Long closed to inmates, the prison opens its gates to the siblings, who will spend the night confined in a tiny cell. It promises to test not only their courage but also their relationship. Will they survive the night and still speak to each other by morning?

NightWatch starts on Sunday 26 October at 9.30pm on BBC Two and iPlayer, offering fans a mix of humour, suspense and sibling camaraderie in equal measure.

Palm Royale Returns with Glamour, Scandal and Secrets

By Jon Donnis

Apple TV has released the official trailer for the second season of Palm Royale, returning on Wednesday, 12 November 2025. The new season begins with its first episode on that date, followed by weekly episodes until 14 January 2026.

The Emmy Award-nominated comedy, starring and executive produced by Kristen Wiig, once again features an impressive ensemble cast. Laura Dern, Allison Janney, Ricky Martin, Carol Burnett, Josh Lucas, Leslie Bibb, Amber Chardae Robinson, Mindy Cohn, Julia Duffy and Kaia Gerber all return. New guest stars joining this season include John Stamos, Patti LuPone, Vicki Lawrence and Matt Rogers. The cast also features Claudia Ferri, Jason Canela, Jordan Bridges, James Urbaniak, Roberto Sanchez, Rick Cosnett and Ryan Dorsey.

Palm Royale follows Maxine Dellacorte, played by Wiig, as she tries to navigate the unforgiving world of Palm Beach high society. The series explores the divide between privilege and exclusion, asking how much one person is willing to give up to gain acceptance.

In the new season, Maxine faces the fallout of a public scandal that has left her a social outcast. To recover her reputation, she must rely on her intelligence and resolve while uncovering what truly lies beneath the luxury and charm of Palm Beach. As secrets begin to surface, the true nature of the town reveals itself, built on deceit, ambition, and the occasional crime.

Season two of Palm Royale premieres exclusively on Apple TV on 12 November 2025.

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3JcnLV7

Crystal Lake: Sky to Bring Friday the 13th Prequel to the UK and Ireland in 2026

By Jon Donnis

The legend of Camp Crystal Lake is set to rise again. Crystal Lake, a prequel to the classic Friday the 13th franchise, will land on Sky and NOW in the UK and Ireland in 2026. Produced by A24 and distributed by Peacock in the US, the series marks the first new project tied to the cult horror phenomenon since the 2009 reboot.

At the centre of the story is Linda Cardellini (Dead to Me, No Good Deed), who takes on the chilling role of Pamela Voorhees, the character who began it all. She'll be joined by William Catlett (A Thousand and One, Constellation), Devin Kessler (Godfather of Harlem), Cameron Scoggins (Shades of Blue, Nashville) and Gwendolyn Sundstrom.

Katie Keenan, Group Director of Acquisitions for Sky UK and Europe, said: "We are so excited to bring Crystal Lake, the back storyline to the iconic Friday 13th franchise. Snapping up this show demonstrates our commitment to bringing our customers the best US drama series from one of the hottest US studios. We are thrilled to be in partnership with A24 and Peacock on this project."

The cast also includes Callum Vinson (Chucky, Long Bright River), Nick Cordileone (Warrior), Joy Suprano (Fleishman is in Trouble, Best Foot Forward), Danielle Kotch (Director's Cut) and Phoenix Parnevik (Bel-Air, Don't Tell Mom), who will appear as recurring guest stars.

Airing on Peacock in the US and on Sky and NOW in the UK and Ireland, Crystal Lake promises to reawaken one of horror's most enduring legends in 2026, a return to the woods where the nightmare first began.

Midsomer Murders Returns for Its 26th Series

By Jon Donnis

There's no rest for DCI Barnaby as ITV and All3Media International have confirmed that Midsomer Murders will return for a 26th series. The latest four-episode run means the beloved detective drama will soon total an impressive 148 episodes, firmly securing Barnaby's title as television's most hard-working sleuth.

Produced by Bentley Productions and executive produced by Michele Buck, the new series promises more intrigue, eccentric suspects and picturesque English villages hiding dark secrets. Neil Dudgeon will once again lead the investigations as DCI Barnaby, joined by Nick Hendrix as DS Winter. Fans can also look forward to the return of Annette Badland as the ever-insightful Dr Fleur Perkins and Fiona Dolman as Barnaby's wife, Sarah.

ITV's Drama Commissioner Huw Kennair Jones said: "We're thrilled to be returning to Midsomer with Barnaby and Winter. Series 26 promises to deliver four brilliant brand new cases for the legion of Midsomer Murders fans to enjoy."

Executive producer Michele Buck added: "We are so pleased to be able to bring viewers more tales from the fascinating world of Midsomer Murders with this series 26 commission."

Now in its third decade, the show continues to be one of the UK's most successful television exports, captivating audiences in nearly 200 territories. From Germany to the Baltics and from Los Angeles to Lyon, Midsomer Murders remains a firm favourite. It's even the most-watched FAST channel on ITVX since the platform launched, offering fans the chance to revisit episodes around the clock.

Louise Pedersen, CEO of All3Media International, praised the show's enduring appeal: "Midsomer Murders is a brand that continues to resonate with fans both globally and here in the UK. It's a show whose repeatable loyalty factor enables us to position the series on various platforms – from PSBs to AVOD and FAST – and increase the series' reach to new audiences. We're thrilled that we have now passed the 25th series landmark and look forward to Bentley delivering Season 26 in 2026."

Based on Caroline Graham's Chief Inspector Barnaby novels, Midsomer Murders has become a staple of British television, combining charm and mystery with a distinctively rural menace. As filming wraps on series 25, fans can look forward to another round of murders, motives and mayhem when the show returns to ITV in 2026.

Lorraine Kelly Embarks on a Nordic Adventure in New Channel 4 Series

By Jon Donnis

Lorraine Kelly is setting sail for the fjords in Lorraine Kelly's Norwegian Odyssey, a new three-part Channel 4 documentary that promises sweeping scenery, rich culture and a touch of Viking spirit. The beloved broadcaster and journalist will journey through Norway's breathtaking landscapes, exploring its wildlife, traditions, and the echoes of its storied past.

Produced by Captive Minds, the series follows Lorraine as she traces the legacy of the Vikings and the lasting influence of Norse rule on both Norway and her own homeland of Scotland. It's a voyage that blends history and personal reflection, revealing how centuries-old connections still shape the people and places of the north.

Along the way, Lorraine meets locals who are keeping Norway's heritage alive, from storytellers and artisans to chefs reviving traditional recipes. She'll immerse herself in the rhythm of Nordic life, travelling along the rugged coastline in search of whales, eagles, and the mesmerising Northern Lights.

"This is a personal journey for me," Lorraine said. "I grew up with Viking legends and stories, and Norway's history is so entwined with Scotland's. I'm excited to discover as much as I can about the country's mythical past and how it impacts this wild and spectacular land."

Clemency Green, Channel 4's Senior Commissioning Editor, shared her excitement for the project. "We're excited to see what Lorraine and Captive Minds discover on their expedition across Norway. Our viewers are going to love this beautiful and informative series."

David Harrison of Captive Minds added: "We're delighted to bring this epic journey to life for Channel 4. Norway is full of surprises and Lorraine's natural curiosity and warmth makes her the perfect travel companion for a voyage along one of the world's most beautiful coastlines."

Lorraine Kelly's Norwegian Odyssey (3x60') was commissioned by Clemency Green with Jo Street, Channel 4's Director of Commissioning, Nations & Regions and Head of Lifestyle. Executive producers are David Harrison and Liz Mills, with Ross Haley as series producer and director. The series will air next year on Channel 4, inviting viewers to join Lorraine as she explores one of the most enchanting corners of the world.

Fred Sirieix Takes on the UK’s Struggling Hospitality Scene in New Channel 4 Series

By Jon Donnis

Fred Sirieix, the ever-charming maître d' best known for his warmth, wit and exacting standards, is heading back to Channel 4 with a new four-part series that puts his passion for hospitality to the ultimate test. This time, he's swapping luxury hotels for struggling cafés, guesthouses and restaurants across the UK, taking on the challenge of reviving the nation's most troubled venues.

With years of experience at the top of the industry, Fred has seen it all. Yet this new series might be his biggest test to date. Each episode will see him and a hand-picked team of hospitality professionals dive into the heart of struggling businesses to restore pride, purpose and profit.

The show promises plenty of emotional moments as well as tough love. Fred isn't afraid to have the difficult conversations needed to spark change, but beneath his polished professionalism is genuine heart. Alongside him are a business strategist, a food and beverage expert, an interior designer and a chef, all bringing their own expertise to rebuild businesses from the ground up.

"Times are super tough in the hospitality business," Fred said. "If you are running a hotel, B&B, country house, guesthouse, bar/restaurant or even a glamping site that needs a reboot, then I want to hear from you! With my crack team of experts, we will help inject new life and more importantly revenue into your business. There will be tough conversations and decisions to make but with some hard work we can help to turn your business around."

Jannine Waddell described the series as a rare opportunity for struggling owners to rethink their approach. "This is a wonderful opportunity for hospitality owners to work with Fred Sirieix to explore new approaches, ensure great guest experiences and create revenue streams."

Clemency Green, Channel 4's Senior Commissioning Editor, added: "Fred brings a genuine passion for hospitality and a clear understanding of what it takes to turn things around. This series will shine a light on real challenges faced by businesses across the UK, and do so with care, insight, and optimism – I am sure Fred, and the team will pull off some spectacular turnarounds!"

Fred's Hotel Fixers (working title) was commissioned by Clemency Green with Jo Street, Director of Commissioning, Nations & Regions for Channel 4, with support from Northern Ireland Screen. The show was developed by Sophie Wurzer-Williams and is being produced by Belfast's leading independent production company, Waddell Media.

Equal parts grit, compassion and ambition, Fred's latest venture looks set to capture the human stories behind Britain's struggling hospitality sector and remind viewers why great service, heart and resilience still matter.

Inside Hitler’s DNA: Channel 4’s Bold New Investigation

By Jon Donnis

Channel 4 has announced a daring new two-part documentary that takes a scientific approach to one of history's darkest figures. Hitler's DNA: Blueprint of a Dictator will explore what genetic clues might reveal about Adolf Hitler's mind, personality and behaviour.

Produced by Blink Films, the series is built around a verified sample of Hitler's DNA, tested under strict scientific conditions. For the first time, an international team of geneticists, psychologists, medical experts and historians will come together to examine whether his genetic code may have influenced the man he became.

At the heart of the investigation are Professor Turi King, one of the world's leading geneticists, and Dr Alex Kay, a respected historian of Nazi Germany. Together they'll sift through cutting-edge data and historical evidence to understand what, if anything, in Hitler's biology might have shaped his worldview, his relationships and his capacity for cruelty.

Commissioning Editor Jonah Weston called the project an extraordinary feat of modern science. "Nothing can ever fully explain Adolf Hitler's evil. But finding Hitler's DNA is an incredible feat of scientific detective work – and gives unprecedented insights into history's most studied man."

Dan Chambers, Creative Director at Blink Films, added: "For 80 years, there has been lots of speculation about Hitler's medical and psychiatric conditions. Now, by looking into his DNA for the first time in history, we're able to reveal a whole series of things, some that we might have expected, others that are really surprising."

The two-part series, commissioned by Jonah Weston and Emily Shields, promises to challenge long-held assumptions about Hitler and the forces that drove him. Whether the findings rewrite our understanding or simply deepen the mystery, Hitler's DNA: Blueprint of a Dictator looks set to open an unsettling new chapter in the study of human history.