The Top 3 TV Shows to Watch This Christmas: A TV Writer’s Guide
Table of Contents
Looking for the perfect festive viewing? Navigating the crowded Christmas TV schedule can be overwhelming, but a seasoned TV writer has curated a list of three must-watch shows to elevate your holiday downtime.
The sheer volume of Christmas specials can be paralyzing. As a professional immersed in television, the author initially felt that same overwhelm, longing for simpler times when choosing what to watch involved circling options in the Radio Times. But for those seeking a curated selection, here are three shows guaranteed to deliver this holiday season.
Call the Midwife: A Christmas Tradition
(Image credit: BBC / Neal Street Productions / Olly Courtney)
Call the Midwife will air in two parts, with the first episode on Christmas Day at 8:15pm and the second on Boxing Day at 8:30pm on BBC One. For one devoted fan, the show is more than just a program—it’s a deeply cherished experience. “I sometimes struggle to put into words just how much I love Call The Midwife,” the writer confesses, adding they’ve revisited every season multiple times and immersed themselves in Jennifer Worth’s original memoirs.
Despite accusations of being overly sentimental, the show is, at its core, a “gritty, feminist powerhouse,” shedding light on critical issues surrounding women’s health and autonomy, both historically and in the present day. The series excels at providing satisfying conclusions for its characters, offering a comforting experience for viewers who appreciate well-wrapped-up storylines. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to continually present fresh narratives within the context of women’s issues, ensuring it remains relevant and engaging.
Ultimately, Call the Midwife embodies the spirit of Christmas, offering warmth and comfort even to the most cynical hearts. It’s the ideal way to conclude a day filled with festive cheer.
Amandaland: Hilarious Spin-Off You Won’t Want to Miss
(Image credit: BBC/Merman/Natalie Seery)
The Amandaland Christmas special will premiere on Christmas Day at 9:15pm on BBC One. A spin-off from the critically acclaimed Motherland, this show promises a generous dose of laughter. While familiarity with Motherland isn’t essential, it’s highly recommended, as it’s “one of the most perfectly written, hilarious things to land on our screens.”
The character of Amanda (played by Lucy Punch) is a masterclass in comedic self-absorption. She embodies the parent everyone loves to hate, effortlessly projecting an image of perfect parenthood while remaining blissfully unaware of her own shortcomings. The Christmas special delves into Amanda’s relationship with her mother (Joanna Lumley), exploring the formative influences that shaped her personality. Adding to the excitement, the episode features a reunion with Jennifer Saunders, a nod to the beloved Absolutely Fabulous.
The writer guarantees viewers will be “laughing out loud” and captivated by Lucy Punch’s performance. Conveniently, Amandaland follows Call the Midwife in the schedule, providing a seamless evening of entertainment.
The Traitors: Unexpected Reality TV Obsession
(Image credit: BBC/Studio Lambert/Cody Burridge)
Season 4 of The Traitors begins on New Year’s Day at 8pm on BBC One, with subsequent episodes airing on January 2nd at 8pm and January 3rd at 7:45pm. In a surprising turn, the author, a self-proclaimed reality TV skeptic, has become completely enthralled by this series. Initially hesitant, a colleague’s recommendation led to an unexpected family obsession.
The show’s appeal lies in its captivating drama and the opportunity for contestants to showcase their acting skills through elaborate deception. The writer even admits to shedding tears during the celebrity edition finale, a testament to the show’s emotional impact. Claudia Winkleman’s presence as the host is described as perfect, seamlessly embodying the show’s gothic and treacherous atmosphere.
The Traitors offers pure escapism, and the author eagerly anticipates the new season.
