With the onset of the new season, comes new television series to our screens. With the majority of the summer sporting schedules behind us and the kids now going back to school, we can look forward to a wide range of superb new and returning shows this coming season. So what’s in store on UK TV? Well, there’s plenty to look forward to…
Downtown Abbey’s final hoorah!
It’s a bittersweet moment as the final series of Downtown Abbey returns to ITV on Sunday, September 20th. Set around six months after the events of the season 5 finale in 1925, the upcoming season promises yet more drama, “infused with the prospect of happy endings for its lead characters” says actress Michelle Dockery who plays Lady Mary.
In the latest trailer unveiled by ITV, Lord Grantham is seen bidding an emotional farewell to his loyal butler Mr. Carson whilst Lady Mary has to make a choice about her tumultuous love life after losing her husband Mathew in season 3.
It’s all set to come to a climactic conclusion. So if you can’t wait that long, here’s a sneak peak in the latest trailer below. And remember, you can watch every episode live on ITV on satellite TV all across Europe and beyond with SkyCards.eu
The usual reality talent show take over is back!
Love them or loathe them, reality talent shows are the norm these days and it’s almost impossible to put on your TV set without seeing a trailer or supporting sideshow surrounding one of the many offerings across the numerous TV networks.
Dance fans were recently treated to the unveiling of the latest group of “celebs” who have all accepted the challenge of taking to the BBC’s ballroom floor of Strictly Come Dancing.
This year’s line up has the usual blend of old and new faces with the likes of Jeremy Vine, Ainsley Harriott, Kellie Bright, Georgia May Foote, Katie Derham, Carol Kirkwood, Daniel O’Donnell, Anthony Ogogo, Jay McGuiness, Anita Rani, Jamelia, Helen George, Iwan Thomas, Kirsty Gallacher and of course fan favourite Peter Andre; who made his name on ITV’s “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here” many years ago, by frolicking around with Jordan, in what turned out to be one of the most fractious on-screen relationships we’ve had the displeasure of witnessing in recent years.
Not a single step has been tread as yet however, there’s already talk of the Australian going a long way in this year’s competition; just as long as he keeps his hands to himself!
However, every year we are treated to a surprise frontrunner so until the first dances are performed in just under three weeks time, we’ll have to just hold out until we see the performances for ourselves.
The X-Factor is back for series 12… yes 12!
Simon Cowell and company are back in the usual format, with the nations talent hopefuls trying to impress upon the four overly-critical X-Factor judges, this year comprising Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Radio 1 breakfast show host Nick Grimshaw and former Voice UK coach Rita Ora.
Rumour has it that ratings of this year’s show are really flagging – in fact, some say they’re dismal. My heart bleeds.
As much as we love UK TV, the format of this show has grown very tired and in a vain attempt to rescue the flagging format, Simon Cowell is rumoured to be looking to change up the judging panel already, with a so-called “big gun” ready to be unveiled.
The Sun newspaper claims that the music mogul is planning to bring One Direction star Louis Tomlinson to his Judges’ Houses stage of the competition as his celeb mentor, in an attempt to bring back audiences.
With his history of hiring and firing judges to keep the show fresh, perhaps Mr. Cowell should look closer to home (try a mirror) and fire himself as many of us Brits could agree that he and his usual format of bringing people to tears has become more degrading that entertaining.
However, there’s still a young generation that enjoys the show and with a One Direction member set to join the team, you might just want to tune into ITV every Saturday to see what unfolds. But surely, with several dozen channels to choose from on Sky, you’ll find something far better to occupy your time right?
The choice is entirely yours!
