What to watch on TV this week: Wednesday 5th to Friday 14th August

Looking for something new to watch? This week's TV line-up is packed with fresh drama, inspiring documentaries and brand-new entertainment shows, with plenty of big-name talent in front of the camera. From Sky Atlantic's intriguing new thriller Possession to Richard E. Grant's Mediterranean adventure, Martin and Roman Kemp's Irish road trip and ITV's globe-trotting quiz show The Chase Around the World, there's no shortage of new arrivals competing for a place on your watchlist.

We've picked the standout show for every day, alongside a selection of other highlights from across Virgin TV, including major launches, returning favourites and can't-miss drama. Whether you're in the mood for history, travel, entertainment, crime or comedy, here's what to watch on TV this week.

We've also picked out the biggest sporting events and top films showing over the next 10 days, so whatever you're into, there's something worth adding to your watchlist.

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Pick of the day: Guy Montgomery’s Mont-Spelling Bee
10pm, BBC Three HD (CH 107)

Part game show, part panel show and entirely chaotic, Guy Montgomery's Mont-Spelling Bee turns the humble spelling test into a brilliantly silly comedy contest. Created and hosted by New Zealand comedian Guy Montgomery, the cult hit sees comedians and celebrity guests take on increasingly absurd spelling challenges designed to be as entertaining as they are baffling.

Far removed from a traditional spelling bee, contestants tackle inventive rounds, strange word challenges and deliberately ridiculous tasks, with Montgomery's quick-fire wit and playful hosting driving the mayhem. The format has built a devoted following thanks to its mix of clever comedy, competitive chaos and laugh-out-loud moments.

What else to watch

• The Penguin, 7.55pm, Sky Atlantic HD (CH 111)

• Extraordinary Extensions, 8pm, Channel 4 HD (CH 104)

• The Chelsea Detective, 9pm, U&Drama HD (CH 116)

• House of the Dragon, 9pm, Sky Atlantic HD (CH 111)

Pick of the day: Possession
21:00, Sky Atlantic HD (CH 111)

Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Jonny Lee Miller star in this brand-new Sky Original supernatural thriller set between Bristol and Jamaica. When ambitious lawyer Claudia travels to the Caribbean to investigate a contested inheritance claim, she discovers a chilling link to the former plantation that has haunted her nightmares. Blending eerie mystery with a confrontation of historic legacies, this bold new five-part drama promises an atmospheric and edge-of-your-seat premiere. Settle in for a gripping start to the series.

What else to watch:

• Renovation Rescue, 20:00, Channel 4 HD (CH 104)

• Voices Of the Valleys, 19:00, Sky Arts HD (CH 123)

• Have I Got a Bit More News for You, 22:00, U&Dave HD (CH 127)

• Channel 4 News, 19:00, Channel 4 HD (CH 104)

Pick of the day: Ann Droid
9.30pm, BBC One HD (CH 101)

Diane Morgan stars in this hilarious new BBC sitcom set in the near future, where a recently widowed woman finds her life turned upside down when her son leaves her in the care of Linda, a socially awkward second-hand eldercare robot. Created by Morgan and Sarah Kendall, the series blends warm family comedy with a witty look at technology, ageing and human connection.

This week's episode sees Sue looking forward to a family dinner with her son Michael and his wife Renée, only to discover they have an ulterior motive for dropping by. Fortunately, Linda proves more useful than anyone expects as the evening threatens to unravel. With a top cast led by Morgan and Sue Johnston, Ann Droid is one of the freshest new comedies on TV right now.

What else to watch

• The NaNaz: Age Against the Machine, 7.30pm, BBC One HD

• The Penguin, 8pm, Sky Atlantic HD (CH 111)

• Death in Paradise, 9pm, BBC Three HD (CH 107)

• New Tricks, 10pm, U&Drama HD (CH 116)

Pick of the day: Bettany Hughes Lost Worlds: Dawn of Civilisations
8pm, Channel 4 HD (CH 104)

Renowned historian Bettany Hughes embarks on a breathtaking journey back in time to explore the origins of human society. Through expert analysis and immersive filming, the series uncovers how ancient communities laid the foundations of the modern world.

Packed with historical intrigue and stunning scenery, it is an essential watch for documentary lovers looking to spend a relaxed Saturday evening learning something new.

What else to watch:

• Sandi Toksvig's Hidden Wonders, 7pm, Channel 4 HD (CH 104)

• 999: Rescue Squad, 6pm, U&W HD (CH 125)

• Not Going Out, 8:50pm, BBC Three HD (CH 107)

• Wallander, 9pm, U&Drama HD (CH 116)

Pick of the day: Richard E. Grant's Very Modern Odyssey
8pm, Channel 4 HD (CH 104)

Join the ever-delightful Richard E. Grant as he journeys across Sicily to explore its rich heritage, vibrant cuisine and picturesque landscapes. His trademark charm and boundless curiosity make every stop on the tour feel like a special discovery.

If you are craving a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to round off your weekend, this evocative travelogue is the perfect Sunday evening escape.

What else to watch:

• Gogglebox, 7pm, Channel 4 HD (CH 104)

• Special Ops: Crime Squad UK, 8pm, U&Dave HD (CH 127)

• Have I Got a Bit More News for You, 9pm, U&Dave HD (CH 127)

• Opry Live, 7pm, Sky Arts HD (CH 123)

Pick of the day: Martin and Roman's Irish Road Trip
8pm, Channel 4 HD (CH 104)

Father-and-son favourites Martin and Roman Kemp set off on a heartwarming travel adventure across Ireland. Packed with natural camaraderie, playful banter and stunning scenic drives, the pair take on local traditions and fun challenges along the way. Their warm relationship makes for effortlessly engaging television, providing a joyous and lighthearted start to your viewing week.

What else to watch:

• Have I Got a Bit More News for You, 9pm, U&Dave HD (CH 127)

• Long Lost Family: Born Without Trace, 9pm, ITV 1 HD (CH 103)

• The Great British Sewing Bee, 8pm, BBC Three

Pick of the day: RuPaul's Drag Race UK Series 8 – Meet the Queens
9pm, BBC Three HD (CH 107)

The countdown to a brand-new season of RuPaul's Drag Race UK begins here as viewers get their first introduction to the 12 queens hoping to become the UK's Next Drag Race Superstar. This special preview episode offers an early look at the contestants, their drag styles and the personalities they'll be bringing to the werkroom when series 8 gets underway.

With RuPaul, Michelle Visage, Alan Carr and Graham Norton all returning for the new season, Meet the Queens is the perfect introduction to what promises to be another glamorous, unpredictable and entertaining run

What else to watch:

• Gomorrah: The Origins, 9pm, Sky Atlantic HD (CH 111)

• Dover 24/7: Britain's Busiest Port, 8pm, Channel 4 HD (CH 104)

• Have I Got a Bit More News for You, 9pm, U&Dave HD (CH 127)

• BBC Comedy Short Films, 7:05pm, BBC Three HD (CH 107)

Pick of the day: Murder Trial: Death of a Dog Walker
9pm, BBC Two HD (CH 102)

The award-winning Murder Trial returns with a gripping new case. This two-part documentary examines the killing of Perthshire dog walker Brian Low, who was shot while out with his dog in February 2024. Initially treated as a non-suspicious death, the investigation took a dramatic turn when forensic examinations uncovered evidence of murder.

With extraordinary access to police investigators, lawyers, court proceedings and the victim's family, the series follows the case all the way to the High Court. Built around a prosecution case largely based on circumstantial evidence, it offers a fascinating insight into how major murder trials are investigated and argued in court.

What else to watch

• Extraordinary Extensions, 8pm, Channel 4 HD (CH 104)

• Top Gear, 8pm, BBC Three HD (CH 107)

• House of the Dragon, 9pm, Sky Atlantic HD (CH 111)

• The Chelsea Detective, 9pm, U&Drama HD (CH 116)

Pick of the day: The Chase Around the World
9pm, ITV1 HD (CH 103)

The race continues as the teams arrive in Zurich, where The Governess and The Dark Destroyer are waiting with another series of brain-teasing challenges. Inspired by one of ITV's most successful quiz brands, The Chase Around the World combines travel, competition and general knowledge as contestants attempt to track down Bradley Walsh while staying one step ahead of the Chasers.

This week's adventure takes the teams from Lake Zurich to the Swiss Alps, with Einstein-inspired quizzes, a visit to the FIFA Museum and even a stop at a chocolate factory along the way. With spectacular scenery, plenty of jeopardy and a fresh twist on a familiar format, it's an entertaining mix of travel and quiz action.

What else to watch

• Possession, 9pm, Sky Atlantic HD (CH 111)

• Sort Your Life Out, 8pm, BBC Three HD (CH 107)

• Renovation Rescue, 8pm, Channel 4 HD (CH 104)

• Have I Got a Bit More News for You, 10pm, U&Dave HD (CH 127)

Pick of the day: Pick of the day: Station Eleven
9pm, Sky Atlantic HD (CH 111)

One of the most acclaimed dramas of recent years continues on Sky Atlantic. Based on Emily St. John Mandel's bestselling novel, Station Eleven follows a group of survivors navigating life after a devastating flu pandemic, moving between the chaos of the outbreak and a hopeful future decades later.

Starring Himesh Patel and Mackenzie Davis, the Emmy-nominated series won praise for its thoughtful storytelling, emotional depth and unique perspective on life after catastrophe. As the mystery deepens and the interconnected stories begin to converge, it's a compelling choice for viewers looking for something more ambitious than the usual Friday night fare.

What else to watch

• Surgery Secrets of the Super Rich, 8pm, Channel 4 HD (CH 104)

• Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? Celebrity Special, 9pm, ITV1 HD/STV HD (CH 103)

• Death in Paradise, 9pm, BBC Three HD (CH 107)

• New Tricks, 10pm, U&Drama HD (CH 116)

Live MotoGP British Grand Prix Race
Sunday 9 August, 12.15pm, TNT Sports 2 HD (CH 522)

The MotoGP season roars back into life at Silverstone as the British Grand Prix kick-starts the second half of the championship. With just 24 points separating the top five riders heading into Round 12, the title race is finely poised, with Jorge Martín, Ai Ogura, Marc Márquez, Marco Bezzecchi and Fabio Di Giannantonio all firmly in contention.

Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits on the calendar, famous for its sweeping corners, dramatic overtaking opportunities and unpredictable racing. The British GP has also become known for producing different winners, with the last 11 races delivering 11 different victors.

Short sport shortlist

• Live: The Hundred Men - Trent Rockets v Birmingham Phoenix, Wednesday 5 August, 6.30pm, BBC Two HD (CH 102) / Sky Sports Cricket HD (CH 505)

• Live: Partick Thistle v Livingston, Friday 7 August, 7.25pm, BBC Scotland HD (CH 162)

• Live: Middlesbrough v Wrexham, Friday 7 August, 8pm, ITV1 HD/STV HD (CH 103)

• Live: UK's Strongest Man Final, Sunday 9 August, 4pm, Channel 5 HD (CH 105)

• Live: Manchester United v Leeds United, Wednesday 12 August, 7pm, ITV1 HD/STV HD (CH 103)

• Live Tennis: ATP Canadian Open 2026, Sky Sports Tennis HD (CH 508)

What else to watch:

Looking for more sport this week? We can help with that.

• All the best live sport you can watch on TV this week

• Got a Sky Sports subscription? Check out our monthly guide

• If you’ve got TNT Sports, your monthly guide is here

Movie pick of the week: Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation
Wednesday 12 August, 9pm, Film4 HD (CH 428)

Tom Cruise returns as IMF agent Ethan Hunt in one of the strongest entries in the long-running action franchise. This time, Hunt and his team are on the trail of a highly skilled criminal organisation known as the Syndicate, forcing them into a globe-spanning mission filled with double-crosses, daring escapes and spectacular set pieces.

What sets Rogue Nation apart is its combination of old-school spy thrills and jaw-dropping practical stunt work. From the now-famous aircraft sequence to high-speed chases and undercover operations, the film delivers blockbuster action with style and confidence. Smart, entertaining and packed with memorable moments, it's a perfect midweek movie night choice.

Short movie shortlist:

• Speed, Wednesday 5 August, 9pm, Film4 HD (CH 428)

• Captain Phillips, Thursday 6 August, 9pm, Film4 HD (CH 428)

• The Martian, Friday 7 August, 9pm, Film4 HD (CH 428)

• See How They Run, Tuesday 11 August, 7:05pm, Film4 HD (CH 428)

• The Woman King, Thursday 13 August, 9pm, Film4 HD (CH 428)

• Our monthly Sky Cinema guide featuring the best movies this month

• Looking for something on Netflix? Try our monthly guide to new releases

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