Sir Alan points a lot
FebruaryThe Apprentice (BBC1)
Presenters: Sir Alan Sugar
How does it work? Hardnosed businessman Sir Alan puts potential apprentices to the test. The aim of the game is to be hired by the big man himself. He’s notoriously hard to please and cuts out the niceties. Not a competition to be entered into by the faint hearted.
Entertainment value: This one has less of the cringe factor than most reality shows but has its moments as the wannabe-tycoons attempt to prove they can cut the mustard. And when they don’t, hell hath no fury like Sir Alan when his time has been wasted. However, if you like a judge/presenter who isn’t full of hot air, this is your show.
"Proper car crash telly if you can bear it."
Presenters: Philip Schofield & Holly Willoughby
How does it work? A dance-off on ice as various celebs pair up with a pro to find their feet on the cold stuff, with guidance from former champs Torville and Dean. The audience votes them on or off the rink following the usual scrap with the judges. Former Corrie actress Gaynor Faye claimed last year’s crown.
Entertainment value: Celebs in frilly, glittery costumes trying not to take a tumble as they glide, or rather, stumble their way through the show. Bruised bums aplenty and some tough-talking judges. Proper car crash telly if you can bear it.
Jealous yet?
Castaway 2007 (BBC1)
Presenters: Danny Wallace
How does it work? It’s Big Brother on a remote island as people are thrown together to fend for themselves for several weeks. In the first series a few years back, castaways spent a year together on a Hebridean island and propelled participant Ben Fogle to fame. This time, it’ll be live.
Entertainment value: Castaway is celebrity free and only on its second series. Not yet wrung dry, it might be well be worth a look.
"We do seem to love the so-bad-but-it-makes-great-telly audtions thrown up by the X Factor.
Britain's Got Talent (ITV)
Presenters: Ant & Dec
How does it work? Another X-Factor type show, spawned by the Simon Cowell factory. This time, the door is wide open to anyone of any talent or age. Yep, anyone who thinks they’re in the world’s best unknown dance group or even a dab hand at juggling will be proving themselves here.
Entertainment value: We do seem to love the so-bad-but-it-makes-great-telly auditions thrown up by the X-Factor so there’s no reason why we shouldn’t take to this lot like a gaggle of cackling hyenas. Plus, aren’t we all a bit bored of merely having our eardrums burst?
1st February 2007
