5 things to watch on Christmas Day: A star-studded Netflix drama and “brilliant” binge-worthy series

Looking for something to watch on Christmas Day? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve already shared some top TV and movie picks for the holidays, but now we’re focusing on what to watch specifically on December 25th. Whether you’re curious about the most talked-about Christmas special of 2025, need something to keep the children happy, or just want a new show to binge-watch, we’ve got some great ideas for you.

The BBC’s Christmas lineup in 2025 will, as always, feature many beloved shows. Expect to see returning favourites like Call the Midwife, a new animated adaptation of a Julia Donaldson book, and a special edition of Strictly Come Dancing, among other highlights.

Amandaland

BBC One, 9.15pm

What to Read Next

Last year, everyone loved the Gavin and Stacey Christmas special, and this year it’s Ab Fab’s turn! A brand new Absolutely Fabulous episode will air on Christmas Day, reuniting Joanna Lumley and Jennifer Saunders – a pairing fans have been waiting for. Based on the sneak peek, it looks set to be very funny.

Plus, if watching that brings back good memories and makes you want more, the BBC will be showing a classic episode of Absolutely Fabulous at 11pm.

Goodbye June

Streaming on Netflix from 24 December

If you’re looking for a touching and emotional movie with a Christmas setting, check out Goodbye June on Netflix. But don’t necessarily think of it as a Christmas movie.

Featuring a fantastic cast – including Kate Winslet, who also directed, along with Helen Mirren, Timothy Spall, and Toni Collette – Goodbye June perfectly captures the essence of Christmas. As we noted in our 4-star review, it’s a beautifully made, heartfelt, and genuine drama that explores themes of memories, loss, and family togetherness.

Just be warned: it will make you cry.

Bluey’s Christmas Bundle

BBC One, 11am (also available on BBC iPlayer)

If you’re a fan of Bluey – and let’s be honest, most of us are! – the BBC has created a special collection of holiday episodes to provide some festive fun for you and your kids.

Enjoy 40 minutes of heartwarming fun with the Heeler family and friends, and keep the Christmas spirit alive!

Home for Christmas

Seasons 1-3 are streaming on Netflix

I just started watching this Norwegian drama, and it’s really hitting me in the feels! It’s about a woman named Joanne who’s dealing with all the usual holiday chaos – family stuff, and a really complicated love life. Basically, she’s trying to figure things out with both old flames and potential new partners, all while hoping to find someone she really connects with. They just dropped season three, and it’s already getting intense!

Viewers on IMDb have praised the show, calling it brilliant, charming, and superb. Many have also shared that they watched all the episodes in a short amount of time.

The show is rated 15, so this one isn’t for family viewing.

A Minecraft Movie

The popular movie, originally released in theaters earlier this year, will be available to stream on Sky Cinema and NOW starting Christmas Day.

Our review gave this video game movie 3 stars, and we called it a fun, lighthearted adventure that’s surprisingly good. It features Jack Black, Jason Momoa, and Jennifer Coolidge.

Enjoy the holidays with the Good Housekeeping Christmas TV Guide! It’s packed with 14 days of TV listings and everything you need for a perfect festive viewing experience. You can find it for just £4.75 at Morrisons, TG Jones, and other magazine retailers.

Read More

2025-12-25 00:19