We’re leading up to a bank holiday weekend, and that means you should stay in this week to conserve your energy. If you decide to do just this, here are a few things that may tickle your fancy. And don’t forget the Olympics!
On TV, Londonist likes:
Tuesday, 19 August
Maestro (BBC2, 21:00-22:00) We were riveted to the first episode of Maestro – who knew Alex James had so little natural rhythmic ability? The remaining seven celebs vying for a spot on the conductor’s podium at the Proms take on the challenge of a live studio performance from the BBC Television Centre. We can hardly wait – if anything lives up to Peter Snow’s cringe-worthy performance last week, it will be well worth it.
The Secret Millionaire (Channel 4, 21:00-22:00) We’re such secret fans of this show. Largely because it makes us cry every single time. This episode sees property mogul Nick Leslau travel from posh Mayfair to the much less posh Possilpark in Glasgow. As always, he manages to do some good and learn a bit about himself. And, most likely, find a way to make us cry.
Wednesday, 20 August
How Clean Is Your House? (Channel 4, 20:30-21:00) If you can handle this show, which we frankly find a bit too disgusting to watch at times, Aggie and Kim pop down to Greenwich to find out if the formerly dirty Valerie Riley has tidied herself up or reverted to her previous filthy ways. This is at least a show that can make most of us proud of our housekeeping skills.
Who Do You Think You Are? (BBC1, 21:00-22:00) Our very own Boris Johnson takes the journey back through his past. Filmed before he became Mayor, his trip through his family history takes him to Turkish journalists, supposed French aristocrats, and down a few unanticipated alleys. As usual with this series, there are always a few unexpected ancestors who pop up, and it’ll be interesting to see how Boris deals with them. If you’re interested in Boris, you won’t want to miss this. It’s unlikely to turn you into Boris’s number one fan if you weren’t already, but should give some insight into our new Mayor.
Thursday, 21 August
Megastructures: Beijing Olympic Stadium (Five, 20:00-21:00) Like us, you were probably amazed by the Beijing Olympic Stadium during the opening ceremonies. Here’s a chance to see just how it was made, as the programme follows its design, engineering and construction.
Harley Street (ITV1, 21:00-22:00) It’s the final episode of Harley Street – more drama and intrigue from medical professionals, along with a few actual medical related plotlines. A dramatic father/son reconciliation plot should be just the ticket to finish up this ridiculously cheesy series.
Saturday, 23 August
The X Factor (ITV1, 19:30-20:30) God, is the X Factor back already? Apparently so, as it’s time for the London and Birmingham auditions. Look for new judge Cheryl Cole to break down in tears and Louis Walsh to face a hopeful looking for a date, rather than a shot at fame. We’re still unsure how this show will go without Sharon Osbourne. Is a member of a reality show created girl band really a suitable replacement?
