Best of 2024’s Christmas TV across the BBC, Netflix and more

As someone who has spent countless hours binge-watching TV shows and movies, I must say this list is like a Christmas miracle for me! It seems that 2024-25 will be an exciting time for television enthusiasts with so many beloved series making their comeback or premiering for the first time.

If you want to know the Christmas TV highlights for 2024, you’ve come to the right place.

Just like we do annually, Digital Spy dives into the program lineups – even peeking at the BBC’s 2024 Christmas programming – to select the most delightful television offerings for your holiday enjoyment this year.

Save this page and continue scrolling to discover exciting holiday specials, popular British series making their comeback, and fresh programs airing on BBC, Netflix, ITV, and Channel 4 that you won’t want to skip.

Best of 2024's Christmas TV across the BBC, Netflix and more

Black Doves

Netflix, December 5

The primary stars in this unexpectedly jolly and emotional espionage series are Keira Knightley, Ben Whishaw, and Sarah Lancashire. This production is set in a wintry London landscape and features a collection of popular holiday tunes as its soundtrack.

Read our Black Doves review for even more of a taster.

Best of 2024's Christmas TV across the BBC, Netflix and more

Squid Game season 2

Netflix, Boxing Day

Approximately three years after its debut on the streaming service, transforming into a worldwide sensation, the show Squid Game is set to make a comeback with its second season on December 26th. The character Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae), more commonly recognized as Player 456, will reappear in the lethal contest. As suggested by the trailer, he’s gratefully said goodbye to his iconic postbox-red hair.

Best of 2024's Christmas TV across the BBC, Netflix and more

Missing You

Netflix, January 1

After the huge popularity of “Fool Me Once“, and keeping the exact same New Year’s Day release slot, Harlan Coben’s latest television adaptation, featuring Ashley Walters, Rosalind Eleazar, and James Nesbitt, is set to premiere on Netflix.

Best of 2024's Christmas TV across the BBC, Netflix and more

Gavin & Stacey: The Finale

BBC One, Christmas Day, 9pm

According to its title, the television series led by James Corden and Ruth Jones is set to broadcast its final episode this coming Christmas; an occasion that promises to be a must-watch television event.

Best of 2024's Christmas TV across the BBC, Netflix and more

Doctor Who

BBC One, Christmas Day, 5.10pm

For the second holiday season, Ncuti Gatwa will reappear on our screens as the Fifteenth Doctor. However, this time he’ll be accompanied by a new character named “Joy,” portrayed by the talented actress Nicola Coughlan, who is well-known for her roles in shows like Bridgerton and Derry Girls.

Best of 2024's Christmas TV across the BBC, Netflix and more

Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special

BBC One, Christmas Day, 3:55pm

Every Christmas Day schedule traditionally includes an episode of “Strictly”, and this year will be no exception. Notable personalities like RuPaul’s Drag Race star Tayce, Taskmaster’s Josh Widdicombe, and EastEnders icon Tamzin Outhwaite are expected to grace the show.

Best of 2024's Christmas TV across the BBC, Netflix and more

SAS Rogue Heroes season 2

BBC One and BBC iPlayer, January 1, 9pm

On New Year’s Day, Steven Knight’s critically acclaimed war drama is set to resume its captivating run, featuring the talents of Jack O’Connell, Connor Swindells, and Dominic West in lead roles.

Best of 2024's Christmas TV across the BBC, Netflix and more

The Split: Barcelona

BBC One and iPlayer, December 29, 9pm

This Christmas, Abi Morgan’s legal drama returns for a two-part series! The first part will air as usual at 9pm, but the excitement continues the next day on December 30th, with the second episode following at the same time.

Best of 2024's Christmas TV across the BBC, Netflix and more

Vera

ITV, January 1, 8pm.

Beginning in 2025, the last installments of the detective series starring Brenda Blethyn will air on ITV, culminating with a special farewell documentary called “Vera: A Fond Farewell“.

Best of 2024's Christmas TV across the BBC, Netflix and more

The Great Christmas Bake Off

Channel 4, Christmas Eve, 8pm

Being a long-time fan of baking competitions, I’m absolutely thrilled to learn that this year’s Christmas Bake Off will be a soap special! As someone who grew up watching shows like EastEnders, Coronation Street, and Emmerdale, it’s going to be a delight to see the stars from these beloved series stepping into the tent. I can only imagine the fun and friendly competition that awaits us this holiday season as they showcase their baking skills alongside our favorite regular contestants. This unique twist on the traditional Bake Off format is sure to make for an unforgettable viewing experience, blending the worlds of soap operas and baking in a way that’s both entertaining and engaging. I can hardly wait!

Best of 2024's Christmas TV across the BBC, Netflix and more

Taskmaster’s New Year’s Eve Treat

Channel 4, December 29, 9pm

Five well-known personalities – among them Martin Lewis from “Good Morning Britain” and Sue Johnston of “Coronation Street” – will strive to win over Greg Davies by successfully completing challenges designed by Little Alex Horne, in order to claim the coveted Golden Eyebrows Trophy.

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2024-12-04 17:19

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