Tonight’s TV lineup is a rollercoaster of emotions, genres, and thought-provoking content—but one show stands out as the most unexpected and heartwarming surprise of the year. Yes, you read that right: David Baddiel is finally giving cats the television spotlight they deserve in David Baddiel: Cat Man (8pm, Channel 4). As a proud cat dad to Zelda, Tiger, Ron, and Pip, Baddiel dives into a three-part series that’s equal parts hilarious and moving. But here’s where it gets controversial: why has it taken this long for cats to get their moment in the TV sun? Baddiel meets fellow feline enthusiasts like Jonathan Ross and Philippa Perry, paddleboards with a tabby named Bongo, and even attempts to cuddle Larry, the Downing Street cat. It’s a love letter to our whiskered companions, but it also raises the question: are we doing enough to celebrate the pets that bring us so much joy? Let’s discuss in the comments—do cats deserve more screen time, or is this just a quirky one-off?
If gardening is more your speed, Monty Don’s Rhineland Gardens (8pm, BBC Two) offers a serene escape. Monty’s three-part journey along the Rhine takes him through six countries, starting with a breathtaking Swiss garden 1,900 meters above sea level. It’s a visual feast, but it also highlights the resilience of nature—this garden was born from an avalanche in 1968. And this is the part most people miss: the rare edelweiss that calls this place home. It’s a reminder of how beauty can emerge from destruction.
For crime drama fans, Mystery Road: Origin (9pm, BBC Two) continues its slow-burning intrigue. Set in 2000, this prequel explores an unexplained death in the Loch Iris community. While Mary is quick to dismiss it as an accident, Jay’s suspicions hint at something darker. It’s a show that rewards patience, but is its deliberate pace a strength or a weakness? Share your thoughts below.
Travel enthusiasts will love Jane McDonald: From Pole to Pole (9pm, Channel 5), where Jane’s South American adventure takes a dazzling turn in Brazil. Her comparison of the southeastern coastline to Jurassic Park is bold—but is it accurate? Meanwhile, Taskmasterclass (10pm, Channel 4) takes a deep dive into British comedy with Greg Davies and Little Alex Horne. Their pun-based graphs and clips from Romesh Ranganathan and Mel Giedroyc are laugh-out-loud funny, but the show also asks: what does comedy say about contemporary Britain? Is it a mirror or a distraction?
Over on The Graham Norton Show (10.40pm, BBC One), Erin Doherty and Martin Freeman discuss their latest projects, while Olivia Dean provides the soundtrack. But the real question is: can Doherty’s A Thousand Blows live up to the hype of its first series?
Filmwise, The Ballad of Wallis Island (Sky Cinema Premiere) is a Marmite movie—you’ll either love or hate its awkward humor and excruciating puns. Yet, its heartwarming story of romance, music, and loneliness might just win you over. On Netflix, The Rip (2026) reunites Ben Affleck and Matt Damon in a gripping cop thriller. But with a corrupt officer in their midst, who can they trust? Finally, Lollipop (11pm, BBC Two) tackles homelessness with raw honesty. Posy Sterling’s performance as a young mother fighting to regain custody of her children is enraging and hopeful—a must-watch for anyone passionate about social justice.
And let’s not forget the live sport: Championship Football: West Brom v Middlesbrough (7.30pm, Sky Sports Main Event) promises all the action from the Hawthorns.
So, what are you tuning into tonight? Is it the cat-centric comedy, the gripping crime drama, or perhaps the thought-provoking cinema? Let us know in the comments—and don’t hold back on the controversial takes!
